Like a bird returning to her nest

Introduction to the Devout Life

Part 2, chapters 10-21
English-speaking Group 1
John, Rosario, Orlando

St. Francis de Sales proposes to a devout a constant growth of Christian perfection through sensible and concrete ways:

• Spiritual retreat is likened to a bird coming back to its nest to retire and revitalize itself after a while, alone with the Creator.

• The devout raises his/her thought in ejaculatory prayer to the Divine, contemplating every creature. Every thing that has in contact with the Creator is divinely useful.

• The sensible images of the outside world help the devout to penetrate his/her interior being. They have spiritual orientation.

• The Teachings of Christ and the sacraments continue to guide the devout to a right perspective of Christian perfection.

• Eucharist offers the highest form of prayer. One receives Jesus and allows him/her to be a gift to others. It is a communion with Christ that becomes the source of strength in times of difficulties. Thus, this sacrament shields and keeps the devout steadfast and firm in faith.

• Confession maintains our spiritual life in the state of God’s grace. Gives peace to the soul which is necessary to the reach Christian perfection.

Orlando