Mystery of the Cross

to make up for the lack of a language Referring to the author's struggle with French, which he previously described as "soft" compared to the "vigor" of German or Latin. that I have hardly practiced for many years, and to entreat Him earnestly, day and night, with heart and soul, that He might Himself engrave His eternal truths of spirit and life in our hearts and in the hearts of those into whose hands this little work, merely a rough draft, might fall. If it is His holy will and good pleasure, He will surely raise up someone to produce a German version.

X.

It is to this Spirit of grace and truth that I commend you, my dear Theophilus The name Theophilus means "Lover of God" or "Friend of God." It is used here as a generic address to any devout reader seeking spiritual wisdom.; just as I pray you also to seek His mercy and His love for me, so that, knowing and aiding our weaknesses, He may pray and intercede for us with unutterable groanings original: "gémissemens inénarrables." A reference to the New Testament book of Romans 8:26, describing the Holy Spirit's help in prayer., and may obtain for us and give us Himself the virtue and the strength to bear with patience, gentleness, humility,