The Spirits’ Teachings

Faith: the Mother of Hope and Charity

In order to be profitable, faith must be active. It must not grow numb. Mother of all the virtues that lead to God, it must watch carefully over the development of the children it generates.

Hope and charity are a consequence of faith; these three virtues form an inseparable trinity. Is it not faith that provides the hope of seeing the Lord’s promises fulfilled? Because, if you do not have faith, what do you hope for? Is it not faith that provides love? Because, if you do not have faith, what appreciation will you have, and, consequently, what love?

Faith, divine inspiration from God, awakens all the noble instincts that lead humans toward the good; it is the foundation of regeneration. Thus, this foundation must be strong and durable, for if the least doubt shakes it, what will become of the edifice that you built upon it? Therefore, construct the building upon unshakable foundations; let  your faith  be  stronger than  the sophisms and ridicule of disbelievers, for faith that cannot stand up to human ridicule is not true faith.

Sincere faith is alluring and contagious; it communicates itself to those who did not have it, or even would not desire to have it. It finds persuasive words that go to the soul, whereas apparent faith uses only sonorous words that leave their listeners cold and indifferent. Preach through the example of your faith in order to give it to others. Preach through the example of your deeds in order to enable others to see the merit of faith. Preach through your unshakeable hope in order to enable others to see the trust that strengthens and encourages you to battle all the vicissitudes of life.

Therefore, have faith in all that it contains of beauty and goodness, in its purity and in its reasoning. Do not accept faith that cannot be substantiated, the blind daughter of blindness. Love God but know why you do; believe in his promises but know why you believe in them. Follow our counsels but be aware of the objective we show you and the means we provide for you to reach it. Believe and hope without losing heart; miracles are the deeds of faith.

Joseph, A Protector Spirit (Bordeaux, 1862)