This is “The Little Mandate” which is at the heart of the teachings of Catherine de Hueck Doherty who started the Friendship House and the Madonna House and moved into poor neighborhoods to live among and serve the poor. It is written as a command or commission (mandate) from Jesus.
"Arise – go! Sell all you possess. Give it directly, personally to the poor. Take up My cross (their cross) and follow Me, going to the poor, being poor, being one with them, one with Me. Little – be always little! Be simple, poor, childlike. Preach the Gospel with your life – without compromise! Listen to the Spirit. He will lead you. Do little things exceedingly well for love of Me. Love…love…love, never counting the cost. Go into the marketplace and stay with Me. Pray, fast. Pray always, fast. Be hidden. Be a light to your neighbor’s feet. Go without fear into the depth of men’s hearts. I shall be with you. Pray always. I will be your rest."
I have been trying to follow this mandate, which I think comes directly from the teachings of Jesus.
I also really like the ideas Catherine has about poustinia - which is going into a small, sparsely furnished cabin or room to fast and pray and be in the presence of God for 24 hours. (Future prayer room idea?)
