Francis de Sales makes use of many images in his commentaries on virtues in the third part of the Introduction to the Devout Life. We found the following images particularly striking:
- Detachment of poverty and Esau and Jacob
- The married woman who dresses for her husband and not for the court.
- The almond seed that carries a word: writing the name of Jesus on the heart.
- Friendship (19) particular friendship … but every friendship is particular…
Poverty as stewardship. He offers good example of poverty. He gives good examples of how we can be poor in a rich situation; how we can be with the poor and serve the poor people. Gives the example of St Louis IX, the king.
Living a life of spiritual richness is more difficult in real poverty: enjoying the life of spiritual richness whether or not we are rich or poor materially, depends on our ability to share with others. When we share with others we feel God's love. This is not about economics, but about devotedness to God and neighbor. What is striking to us is that we can enjoy spiritual richness only when we can accept God's will and put God's absolute will above our own will.
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