
Another reward there is that is Secondary, or Accidental, which our Lord giveth for special good deeds, which a man doth voluntarily, over that he is bound to do. Of these deeds three principal ones the Doctors of holy Church do make mention of, namely, Martyrdom, Preaching and Virginity. These works, inasmuch as they pass all others in excellency, shall have a special reward, which is called an Aureola, which is nought else but a singular worship and a special token ordained by God for reward of that special deed they did above others, over and above that Sovereign or Essential reward of the love of God which is common to him and to all others. Right so it is of all other special good deeds, which, if they be done sincerely, are specially acceptable in the sight of God, and in the judgement of holy Church are very excellent, as are the enclosing of Anchorets, done by the authority of holy Church, also entering into religion approved, and the stricter that the religion is, the more excellent is the deed in the judgement of holy Church. (John Climacus)
I am not a virgin. I do not anticipate martyrdom. I do preach.
These meditations -- because they are public -- are a form of preaching. Whenever we assert, proclaim, or declare in public, we are preaching. But clearly Climacus is referencing such preaching as demonstrates one's love of God and God's love for all.
May the meditations of my heart and the words of my mouth be acceptable to you, O God my strength and my redeemer.
The image is of John the Baptist preaching by Pieter Brueghel the Elder.
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