Good Advice For Lent

"Accomplish your good works in secret and not for the eyes of others. Do not act like the spider, who represents the proud; but imitate the bee, who is the symbol of the humble soul. The spider spins its web where everyone can see it, and never in secret. It spins in orchards, going from tree to tree, in houses, on windows, on floors -- in short, before the eyes of all. In this it resembles the vain and hypocritical who do everything to be seen and admired by others. Their works are in fact only spiders' webs, fit to be cast into the fires of Hell. But the bees are wiser and more prudent, for they prepare their honey in the hive where no one can see them. Besides that, they build little cells where they continue their work in secret. This represents very well the humble soul, who is always withdrawn within herself, without seeking any glory or praise for her actions. Rather, she keeps her intention hidden, being content that God sees and knows what she does." The Sermons of St. Francis de Sales for Lent, p9

I entitled this "good advice for Lent," but it's excellent advice for every season of the year. "God sees and knows" -- ah, what greater comfort could there be?! Dear Lord, in the strength of your humility and for the praise of your glory, I will strive this Lent to be a bee!