The power of tears

     A local Bishop comforted St Monica by saying, "the child of so many tears shall not perish". Many tears, many fears, and many years, is what our beloved Saint of the day, Saint Monica, went through for the conversion of not only her son Augustine, but her husband and mother-in-law as well. She wept for Augustine for 17 years. But remember, she also prayed along with her weeping. Prayer mixed with tears, is a combination that shows Our God true sincerity, true petition. It puts a sweet smelling incense into the air, that travels straight to the Throne of God. His gaze turns towards us and we get strength and endurance in the trial He allows to happen. The more we pray and endure, the more He sees our surrender, which pleases Him greatly. 

     Saint Monica endured. She did not give up. She knew the Higher Power of God surpassed anything mortal of this world. Her tears, as a mother for her child, were always being listened to and watched by our God, who knows everything and whose timing is perfect. Augustine was a toughie. That's how God made him. With the strength and the fervor in his soul to help him survive. Through his wrong choices and curiosity he made some bad choices, just like we all do. Stubborn, independent and curious too soon because of a wild heart. The fruits of the mother's tears were heard. Augustine, in trial and error finally found the true God, the true fulfillment that was lacking in his searching soul. Now he is credited as one of the greatest Saints that ever lived. Thus making St Monica also a Saint.

     I believe his salvation was because of the power of Monica's tears. Tears that fell as sweet pearls into the Chalice of God, mingling with Jesus's Blood, therefore making the sacrifice sweet. The bitterness of the "gall" removed, and leaving only a blessed taste in the mouth of God. 

     May we mingle our own tears with those of Saint Monica as we pray for our own children, and all of the children of this world. Making the cup overflow with the Sweetness of Surrender, to the Father in Heaven, that will not let one little lamb be lost.

     Oh beloved Saint Monica, pray for us!