Character and Conduct – 3 February – The Receptive Side of Life

TO all who are active in Christian work I would say, ever remember that there must be fidelity to the receptive side of life if you are to exercise any real abiding influence.   How often do we hear men say that they have worked hard in their district, or their school, or their class, and yet there is no result.

Perhaps they have worked too hard.   There are a multitude of Marthas in modern English life;  but it were good for such if, at times, they would follow the example of the wiser Mary, and sit down quietly at Jesus’ feet, and draw in from Him that power which cannot by any possibility be given out, before it is taken in.

Canon BODY

THE problem set before us is to bring our daily task into the temple of contemplation and ply it there, to act as in the presence of God, to interfuse one’s little part with religion.   So only can we inform the detail of life, all that is passing, temporary, and insignificant, with beauty and nobility.   So may we dignify and consecrate the meanest of occupations.   So may we feel that we are paying our tribute to the universal work and the eternal will.   So are we reconciled with life and delivered from the fear of death.   So are we in order and at peace.

Amiel’s Journal

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These quotes are from ‘Character and Conduct’ A selection of helpful thoughts from various authors arranged for daily reading.

Collected by Constance M Whishaw and first published in 1905 as a follow up to her volume of Daily Readings for members of the Being and Doing Guild who asked for an additional volume

In her preface Whishaw writes:

‘This collection of noble thoughts expressed by men and women of past and present ages who have endeavoured to leave the world a little better than they found it.’

It is my hope in publishing the her readers may be inspired to imitate the example of the authors.