Devotion is really about Love

Introduction to the Devout Life
Part V – Chapters 1-18
Friday December 1, 2006
Korean Language Group

1. In chapter 6: our attitude towards our neighbor.

When we think love for neighbor, we are apt to remember our favorite neighbor. Francis taught us to discern this well, call to mind certain persons whom you think are troublesome and unpleasant. If we think these persons, we can not love them. Francis said that we should practice the love God towards our neighbor. This lesson moved to us.

2. In chapter 10: “Your soul has in addition a most noble will, capable of loving God and incapable of hating him in himself.”

Most spiritual teaching had a negative attitude for human nature, Francis’ teaching, we thought, had a positive attitude for human nature. These positive Approaching to human being can challenge one’s good motive for spiritual practice. As we read this book, we felt not a guilt and shamefulness but challenge and positive motive. In chapter 11, through these positive attitudes, we can know virtue and devotion can make us happy in this world.


3. In chapter 15: “Read and sign your Firm Resolution in his presence. Finally, go and unite your renewed heart to its Source and Saviour in the most holy Sacrament of the Eucharist.”

Francis emphasized the sacrament of Eucharist according to the catholic tradition. Eucharist means to unite between human and Jesus Christ. As a protestant pastor, we think protestant church should redefined the sacrament of Eucharist because the Eucharist in the protestant church left form without meaning.


4. In chapter 17. About diligence.

Whenever we discussed this book, we often said, “This is all right, but it is very difficult for us to live like that.” As if Francis heard our talking, he gave examples of various man, who were very busy and in troubles, to us. As we read that examples, we can resolve our decision without excuses.