This scene is out front on the rectory steps. The lettuce grew a bit high, went to flowers and is now going to seed. When I see these flowers and this great scene of Saint Anthony with infant Jesus encouraging him to continue preaching the Word with all divisive spirit (ineffective in the eyes of the world, in the eyes of the “men of consensus”), I know that this is about Saint Anthony giving his preaching over to Jesus’ mother as flowers for her. For instance, here’s a great quote from Saint Anthony:
- “Mary provides shelter and strength for the sinner. Earthly riches are like the reed. Its roots are sunk in the swamp, and its exterior is fair to behold; but inside it is hollow. If a man leans on such a reed, it will snap off and pierce his soul.”
So violent! I love it. All for you, Mary.
The only way to get souls for Jesus, for heaven, is to treat them as they are, that is, as creatures with great moral capacity, which, however compromised in the weaknesses of original sin, is enlivened by the joy of the Holy Spirit:
- Hey! That priest took me seriously! He’s the first one in my life to take me seriously, warning me of hell, encouraging even me to go to heaven! Hey! I’m gonna go to Confession so that I can be close to Jesus and, with His grace, be on my way to heaven! Yay!
That’s what happens with all that which is divisive and ineffective in the eyes of the world. Souls are saved. People are filled with joy, and are humbly thankful to the Lord. Saint Anthony, pray for us. Lead us to Mary, to Jesus.
ARISE! LET US BE GOING! 
Keep it up, Father! Deo Gratias!