St. Augustine, one of the most influential theologians in the history of the Church, left us with a profound and often misunderstood quote: “Love God, and do whatever you please.”
At first glance, this statement might seem to promote a life of self-indulgence and disregard for God’s commandments. However, when we delve deeper into the context and true meaning behind Augustine’s words, we discover a profound truth about the nature of love and our relationship with God.
Augustine understood that true love for God transforms our desires and aligns them with His will. When we genuinely “love God with all our heart, soul, and mind” (Matthew 22:37), our actions naturally flow from that love. We begin to desire what God desires for us, and our will becomes conformed to His.
In this light, “do whatever you please” does not mean following our sinful inclinations or disregarding moral principles. Instead, it suggests that when our love for God is authentic and all-consuming, our “pleasure” will be to do what pleases Him. Our deepest joy will be found in living according to His commandments and seeking His will in all things.
St. Augustine’s own life serves as a testament to this truth. Before his conversion, he pursued worldly pleasures and ambitions, yet he found himself restless and unfulfilled. In his famous work, “Confessions“, he wrote, “Our hearts are restless until they rest in You.” It was only when he surrendered his life to God and allowed divine love to transform him that he discovered true peace and purpose.
As Catholics, we are called to cultivate this transformative love for God. Through prayer, the sacraments, and a deep relationship with Christ, we allow His love to shape our desires and guide our actions. When we love God above all else, we find freedom not in doing whatever we want, but in wanting what God wants for us.
Reflecting on St. Augustine’s words with renewed understanding, we should strive to love God so completely that our greatest pleasure is found in pleasing Him. As we grow in love, our lives will bear witness to the joy and freedom that comes from aligning our will with God’s perfect plan. Let us embrace this profound truth and allow it to transform our hearts and minds, drawing us ever closer to the God who loves us beyond measure.
