By KAITLIN KLEIN
WONDERFUL ADVENTURE
Continuing the series of exploring the first 14 rules written by St. Ignatius of Loyola “for becoming aware and understanding to some extent the different movements which are caused in the soul, the good, to receive them, and the bad to reject them,” we continue to the seventh and eighth rules, which again guide us in times of desolation.
The seventh rule focuses on how we can choose to think during desolation: “...consider how the Lord has left him in trial in his natural powers…he can resist with the divine help, which always remains with him, though he does not clearly feel it…” Spiritual desolation is certainly a trial, one that is permitted by God (as are all things); and if we fail to remember this, we may be overcome with fear, despair and hopelessness.
However, if we consider that the Lord, in his love, allows us to experience these difficult times, we can become strengthened to continue on in faith until consolation returns. In The Discernment of Spirits,” Father Timothy Gallagher gives other ideas regarding choices we can make to help us through desolation – even if we do not feel consoled – including reading and thinking about scripture; imagining gospel scenes; and praying.
We can also reflect on God’s purpose for the trial, which can be a great help. By experiencing spiritual desolation and learning how to resist the enemy, we are better becoming able to do so when desolation inevitably occurs again. Father Gallagher notes, “When humbly and courageously resisted, spiritual desolation becomes, indeed, a crucial spiritual lesson, teaching hope and guiding the person toward spiritual maturity in ways that spiritual consolation alone could not accomplish.”
The eighth rule is short and straightforward: “Let one who is in desolation work to be in patience, which is contrary to the vexations which come to him, and let him think that he will soon be consoled, diligently using the means against such desolation, as is said in the sixth rule.”
Patience is key in continuing through spiritual desolation. Father Gallagher compares this kind of patience to running a marathon when the long miles call for defeat. Ignatius tells us to choose to think that consolation will soon return; and not only to think, but to take action – as suggested in the sixth rule. Spiritual consolation and desolation come and go; this is a given. If we remember this, focusing on the return of consolation, we “depriv[e] the present desolation of much of its power.”
As I previously mentioned, these tactics seem simple; but they can be difficult to actually put into practice. Time in prayer, to reflect and implement these ideas, is crucial and will be nothing but beneficial in the spiritual life. Let us encourage and support each other to take time for silence to grow closer to the Lord.