ABSTRACT
The commandment: “Love God” implies by its imperative form that it concerns, not only the consent that the soul can grant or refuse when God comes in person to take the hand of his future spouse, but also a love prior to this visit. For it concerns a permanent obligation. These indirect loves have an inherent power that is exactly and strictly equivalent. Depending on the circumstances, temperament, and vocation, one or the other enters the soul first; one or the other predominates during the period of preparation. It may not necessarily be the same one throughout this period. Christ has shown clearly enough that this is so for the love of one’s neighbour. But one must thank the just for being just, because justice is something so very beautiful, just as we thank God on account of his great glory.
