The message of To Believe In Jesus is heartening, if disconcerting, for it stands a common assumption on its head. The way to holiness is not through dramatic renunciation, and holiness itself is not just for the ‘specialists’, clergy and religious. Holiness cannot be struggled for and won – it can only be given, and all that is necessary is that we should ask. As soon as we cease to strive for virtue, concentrating attention uselessly on ourselves, and instead recognize our weakness, our need, the way is open to encounter God and the holiness of Jesus which is His gift.

RUTH BURROWS is a Carmelite Nun, and author of outstanding books on prayer including: Before the Living God, Essence of Prayer, and Interior Castle Explored (all available from Paulist Press).

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