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and it was just at that moment when this deep recollection left me. O my Jesus, I know that, in
order to be useful to souls, one has to strive for the closest possible union with You, who are
Eternal Love. One word from a soul united to God effects more good in souls than eloquent
discussions and sermons from an imperfect soul” (Diary, # 1595).
(24.5) Union with God: Grace Given to Souls in Varying Degrees for Two Reasons 286
(Diary, # 769): According to Sr. Faustina, union with God is grace given to souls, in
varying degrees, for two purposes: First, as a call to a great task beyond its natural powers; and
Second, to set a familiar path for “kindred souls” and to keep them in “peace” (Diary, # 769). Sr.
Faustina wrote in her Diary:
I have noticed that the Lord grants this grace to souls for two purposes. The first
is when the soul is to do some great work, which is, humanly speaking, absolutely
beyond its power. In the second case, I have noticed that the Lord grants it in
order that kindred souls might be guided and set at peace, although the Lord can
grant this grace as He pleases and to whomever He pleases. However, I have
noticed this grace in three priests, one of whom is a secular Priest [probably
Father Sopocko] and the other two, religious Priests [probably Father Elter and
Father Andrasz], and also in two religious Sisters [probably Mother Michael and
Sister Mary Joseph], but not in the same degree (Diary, # 769).
.
(24.6) Union with God: He Provides Ample Grace to Do His Will in Suffering
(Diary, # 772): According to Sr. Faustina, the soul in union with God fully understands
what the Lord wants from him and receives sufficient grace to do His will amid suffering or
difficulty. Sr. Faustina wrote, “Great is the mutual exchange between the soul and God. When
the soul leaves its concealment, the senses get a taste of what the soul has delighted in. Although
this is also a great grace from God, it is not a purely spiritual one; for in the first moments, the
senses do not take part. Every grace gives the soul power and strength to act, and courage to
286
Ibid., Faustina, Diary, # 769.
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