Contemplative in the Mud

An Aeroplane to Heaven

1–2 minutes

Benjamin Embley

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3 comments on An Aeroplane to Heaven

Aeroplane

[Jesus says,] If the aeroplane can fly so quickly, it is because there is a fire burning inside it. The greater the fire and the lighter the aeroplane, the more it can rise in the air. You are like this aeroplane, but to light the fire you do not need petrol; it is sufficient for you to recall the love of my heart that burns in your soul and it will fly straight to heaven. In a short time, it will repose in my arms… Having reached its end it will remain secure forever in order to be consumed in the fire of my love.
Little Brother Marcel Văn CSsR (1928–1959)

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Benjamin Embley

With backgrounds in engineering (BSc PhD) and philosophy (MA), Ben has lived and worked in England, France, and Thailand and is now back home as a settler in the unceded traditional territory of the Wabanaki peoples in Canada. He is a Laudato Si’ Animator and currently studying an MTS Peace & Justice in Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.

3 responses to “An Aeroplane to Heaven”

  1. Sr. Dorcee Avatar
    Sr. Dorcee

    Can you recommend books on Little Brother Marcel?

    Reply
    1. Contemplative in the Mud Avatar
      Contemplative in the Mud

      In English, there isn’t a whole lot (yet). The first book I read was his familiar, everyday ‘Conversations’ (with Jesus, Mary, and Thérèse). The style isn’t for everyone; it’s very boyish. But for me, this is very inspiring and wonderful. I like it a lot. I couldn’t put it down, and I go back to it often.

      I liked his ‘Autobiography’, too, but I think it made more sense after reading someone else’s version of Văn’s life first. But I read that introduction/biography in French (‘Marcel Van ou l’infinie pauvreté de l’amour’).

      I guess ‘A Short History of Van’ must be a good introduction, too. It’s by Văn’s own spiritual director, who was responsible for preserving his notes, many of his letters, asking him to write his autobiography, introducing his cause of canonization, etc. I have it ordered, but it hasn’t arrived yet. I’ll let you know. =)

      Reply
      1. Sr. Dorcee Avatar
        Sr. Dorcee

        Thank you. I have a great affection for St. Therese, so I think I can handle “boyish”. I’ll look into both his Conversations and the Short History. Thanks and may you have a blessed day!

        Reply

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