Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, known for her “Little Way” to holiness, experienced a profound transformation on Christmas Eve in 1886—a moment she later referred to as her “Christmas Miracle.”
A Sensitive Childhood
Thérèse Martin was a sensitive and strong-willed child. Minor conflicts often led to tears, causing concern for her parents, Saints Louis and Zélie Martin. In her autobiography, Story of a Soul, Thérèse reflects, “I made myself almost unbearable by being far too sensitive, and nothing that was said to me seemed to help me overcome this tiresome fault.”
The Christmas Miracle
On Christmas Eve in 1886, after returning from Midnight Mass, the Martin family continued their tradition of placing gifts in their shoes. Thérèse eagerly anticipated this custom, but overheard her father express a desire for her to outgrow such childish practices. Typically, such a remark would have led to tears. However, Thérèse recounted, “I was not the same Thérèse any more; Jesus had changed me completely.” She restrained her emotions, joined her family, and joyfully opened her gifts, marking a significant shift in her behavior.
A Turning Point
This event signified the beginning of a new chapter in Thérèse’s life. She noted, “God had lifted me out of my narrow world in a very short time, and I had taken the first step, but the road ahead was long.” Freed from her hypersensitivity, Thérèse’s spiritual life flourished, leading her to embrace God’s will more fully.
Reflection
Thérèse’s transformation illustrates that no aspect of our character is too insignificant for God’s grace. Her experience encourages us to remain open to the subtle ways God works within us, especially during the Christmas season. As we reflect on her story, let us seek our own “Christmas miracles,” allowing our hearts to be receptive to God’s transformative love
Prayer for a Christmas Miracle Inspired by Saint Thérèse of Lisieux
Loving Jesus,
In the stillness of Christmas Eve, You worked a miracle in the heart of Saint Thérèse, transforming her from sensitivity and self-concern to a soul filled with Your peace and joy. Just as You softened her heart and brought her closer to You, we ask for the grace of transformation in our own lives.
Lord, we open our hearts to Your gentle touch. Help us to surrender our weaknesses, fears, and pride, so we may grow in holiness and trust in Your divine plan. May we, like Saint Thérèse, find joy in the small sacrifices of daily life and embrace every opportunity to love You more deeply.
This Christmas season, grant us the miracle of renewal—renewal in our faith, our relationships, and our commitment to follow Your will. Fill us with the courage to leave behind our past faults and walk confidently in Your light.
Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, pray for us, that we may learn from your Little Way and find holiness in simplicity, humility, and trust in God’s love.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord,
Amen.Prayer for a Christmas Miracle Inspired by Saint Thérèse of Lisieux
