Loving Jesus Above All Things

I’ve been reading “The Imitation of Christ” by Thomas a Kempis as part of my devotional reading. It’s one of the best books ever written! Everyday his words challenge me to pursue a life devoted to Jesus through simplicity and purity.

Here’s a bit from today’s reading:

“Blessed is he who appreciates what it is to love Jesus and who despises himself for the sake of Jesus. Give up all other loves for His, since He wishes to be loved alone above all things… Love Him, then; keep Him as a friend. He will not leave you as others do, or let you suffer lasting death. Sometimes, whether you will or not, you will have to part with everything. Cling, therefore, to Jesus in life and death; trust yourself to the glory of Him who alone can help you when all others fail….Be humble and peaceful, and Jesus will be with you. Be devout and calm, and He will remain with you.”