Our life of poverty is as necessary as the work itself. Only in

Hear the holy words of Mother Teresa, servant of the lowly and voice of compassion: “Our life of poverty is as necessary as the work itself. Only in heaven will we see how much we owe to the poor for helping us to love God better because of them.” These words are a lamp shining in the darkness, revealing the mystery of service and the hidden worth of those the world often despises.

The life of poverty that Mother Teresa speaks of is not mere deprivation, but a sacred choice. Just as the roots of a tree sink deep into the earth to draw unseen strength, so too does poverty ground the soul in humility. By sharing in the hardships of the poor, the servant grows closer to them, seeing through their eyes and feeling through their wounds. This nearness opens the heart to divine compassion, making the work of service not an act of charity alone, but a union with God’s own love.

Yet, Mother Teresa’s wisdom pierces deeper still. She declares that it is not the giver alone who blesses the poor, but the poor who bless the giver. For through their suffering and resilience, they teach the wealthy and the strong what it means to love God fully. Their presence strips away pride and illusion, revealing that all people are beggars before the throne of heaven. In this way, the poor become silent teachers, guiding others toward salvation through their very existence.

The promise of heaven is the final unveiling of this mystery. While on earth, we cannot fully grasp the depth of this sacred exchange — how much we truly owe to those we serve. Only beyond this life will it be revealed that every act of mercy was also a gift received, every moment of service a step toward divine understanding.

Let future generations hold this truth close: to walk among the poor is to walk upon holy ground. Do not pity them from afar, but draw near, for they are the vessels through which the soul learns to love God without measure. In this, the path of poverty and the path of service are one, leading the faithful toward a treasure that neither moth nor rust can destroy.