Holiness is a very intentional path

Introduction to the Devout Life: Fourth Part
16 December 2005 - English-speaking Group
(Selina, John, Sebastian)

In our conversation on the Fourth Part, there was much discussion about the practicality of Francis' images for comparing the journey of holiness and the necessity for vigilance along that path of holiness. We were very impressed with the wholesome imagery of the bees alighting upon flowers and withdrawing bitter nectar only to produce sweet honey. As usual, the challenge we find in this is to apply similar imagery to our pastoral situations today. What is impressive is Francis' insistence that holiness is a very intentional path but one that is as natural as the things of nature and the rhythm of life. He found a way to reach out to the common person with the heights of sanctity. This led to a discussion of our own pastoral experience and the notion so prevalent that nothing spiritual speaks to the young today. We agreed that our imagery must be as adaptive and natural as Francis' so that we can enter the space that our young people live within and search for meaning.

We were also struck by the practical suggestions Francis gives the penitent in avoiding sin and temptation. There were some rather striking stories he recounts for the reader which reminded all of us of the piety of the times, but we were less shaken by these than the earlier references to hell. These served to remind us that the path of holiness is choice that must never be compromised. In this context, Francis places the penitent within the love of God--a love so overwhelming that when experienced, the penitent does not want to stray. In this context, fear of hell and other imagery seems less necessary and shows the advance of a relationship. In this, we see Francis' connection to the great mystical traditions, as well.

John