Everything that happens in the universe is a source of joy to the Holy Angels. In all they recognize the accomplishment of that which God has fore-ordained; they know that from all He derives honor and glory, and they find unceasing happiness in seeing how He is glorified in all. This is the secret of true contentment; it is because we think of ourselves and not of God that we are troubled and dissatisfied. If only I could take the Angelic view, nothing would disturb me, and I too should always rejoice.

But the Angels have a special joy in all that promotes God's greater glory, in the holiness of the Saints and the repentance of the sinner. They know the willing service of His rational creatures is more beautiful in His sight than all else. The return of wanderers to the fold seems above all to fill them with happiness. "There is joy before the Angels of God over every sinner who does penance." Do I too rejoice in the holiness of those around me, and in witnessing the conversion of the sinner?

The Angels also rejoice whenever one of the children of men joins their happy company. They welcome at the threshold of the celestial paradise every soul that centers upon its eternal reward. The happiness of all derives a fresh accession from each addition to their choirs, and their song of triumph rises louder before the throne of God. How different is their large-hearted charity from my petty jealousy of the success or happiness of others!