"When the will of God is done out of thankfulness the whole idea of becoming good through doing good is excluded. Then I no longer claim any reward for my works because God has already given me everything. Then the reckoning of merits, according to St. Augustine's splendid phrase, is nothing by 'a reckoning of God's gifts.' The good works of Christians are no 'accomplishments' that deserve meritorious distinction but they are 'fruits' that have grown out of the creative power of the Word, out of living union with Christ... The one sanctifying himself because of thankfulness does not claim for himself any honor for the renewal of his life. He who gives thanks remains humble for he gives the glory to God alone." Adolf Koberle
