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“Spiritual warfare, therefore, involves looking carefully at the vices that bind us and moving toward those virtues that, with God’s grace, can flourish in us and bring the spring of the Spirit into our lives. I will guide you to walk.” — Pope Francis
In preparation for his first general audience of 2024, Pope Francis spoke on January 3 in the Paul VI Auditorium about the spiritual struggles that all Christians face. We don’t usually think of the Christian life as a battle or a wrestling match. It is more comforting to think of the church as a “safe haven” or place of rest where we can take a break from the struggles of daily life. Still, Pope Francis reminds us that “being comfortable” is not the primary goal of Christian discipleship.
As the Pope teaches, “life is a series of trials and temptations.” None of us can escape confrontation with the evil that is built into our hearts and minds as a result of sin.
“We are all subject to temptation,” says the Pope. “We must strive not to give in to temptation.” “If you know someone who doesn’t give in to temptation, say so, because that’s abnormal. We all get tempted from time to time, but we all have to learn how to act in those situations.” No need.”
The epic story of Jesus’ temptation by Satan in the desert is meant to inspire us and show us how to respond when we inevitably encounter temptation.
Immediately after Jesus’ baptism by John in the Jordan River, the Gospels state that this action was not taken because of Jesus’ sins, but out of a desire to accompany us and show us the way. A spirit tempted by Satan.
As Pope Francis teaches, “In the desert, Jesus reveals his solidarity with our weak humanity and becomes our great example. Among the dry stones of the desert. Facing and overcoming temptation is the first instruction Jesus gives to our lives as disciples.
“He experienced something that we, too, must be prepared to face. Life is made up of challenges, trials, crossroads, conflicting opinions, hidden temptations, and contradictory voices.”
Choosing a path that truly leads to happiness and striving to stay on the path requires discipline and the ability to say “no” to the desire for comfort, security, and social status. It means that we must always stand firm with the help of God’s grace, without giving in to the temptations that are constantly presented to us in daily life.
Reflecting on the vices and virtues that are part of the common human experience, the pope said, “helps us break through a nihilistic culture that blurs the boundaries between good and evil.” At the same time, he says, “human beings, unlike other creatures, remind us that at any time we can transcend ourselves, open ourselves to God, and journey toward holiness.” states.
Dan Conway is a member of Holy Trinity Church, serves on the editorial board of The Record, and is a writer, consultant, and management educator.
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