However, especially in this unpredictable era with various crises, becoming a holy person has become a key to living better as far as I am concerned. Now, having lived 30 years of religious life, I dare to say, "I want to become a holy person!"
As I ponder the whole life of Sister Tecla Merlo, the co-founder of the Congregation of the Daughters of St. Paul, my desire to become holy grows to be more sincere, faithful and concrete day by day.
"I want to become a saint!"
"Let's all become saints!"
These two expressions constituted the sincerest inner longing of Sr. Tecla Merlo. The resolute determination to be holy became her lifelong plan, and her spiritual will to become a saint has been passed down to all the Pauline sisters.
Furthermore, in this era of tension and crisis, where abnormal conditions are getting worse, the words, "I want to become a saint," give us the direction, meaning and vision of life.
In spite of all the obstacles and difficulties, we do our best here and now to live to the fullest, while living every moment as if it is the last moment. Yes, that's it. We don't have to worry about the future because we are "worth more than many sparrows."
"Are not two sparrows sold for a small coin? Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father's knowledge. Even all the hairs of your head are counted. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." (Matthew 10: 29-31).
Surely, living in the present moment with a joyful and grateful heart is the secret to becoming holy, as was witnessed by the countless saints and Sr. Tecla Merlo as well, who have stepped forward on the spiritual journey by the grace of God.
Several years before dying on Feb. 5, 1964, Sr. Tecla Merlo confessed that "Tomorrow, on the feast of the Holy Trinity, I intend to consecrate my life so that all the members of our Congregation may become saints ... I want you all to be saints. To that end, I gave my life to God today."
On the dying bed of Sr. Tecla Merlo, Fr. James Alberione recommended herself: "Prima Maestra, give your life to the Congregation. Give yourself, your life and suffering to God so that all members may become saints. Jesus, I hope in you and I believe in you. I love you with all my heart ..."
Following in the footsteps of Jesus Christ who gave himself out on the cross, she gave everything for the good of all the members.
Holiness consists of daily faithfulness and love for God. What Sr. Tecla Merlo cherished in her heart was to make every moment pleasing to God, that is, to love God by giving everything to God and by undergoing suffering willingly.
"As God's chosen, holy and beloved person, put on heartfelt sympathy, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." (Col 3:12).
The author is a member of the Daughters of St. Paul (fsp.pauline.or.kr.) living and giving the Good News to the world by means of social communication.