One of my favorite parts of Jesuit spirituality (and of the Jesuits in general) is that they are SO focused on Jesus Christ. Makes, sense, doesn't it, considering we are Catholic Christian and are even named the "Society of Jesus"? :)
In the interview with Archbishop Timothy Dolan below, he speaks with Fr. James Martin about how the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius (founder of the Jesuits) are literally 4 weeks of silent prayer devoted to further developing an intimate friendship with Jesus. Of course, that is the hope and goal of many Christians, but is a special gift of this Jesuit way of life and prayer.
Just tonight my brothers and I gathered for an Advent prayer service, and it came into my heart what the late leader of all the Jesuits, Fr. Pedro Arrupe, said when he was asked who Jesus was to him.
His answer?
"For me, Jesus Christ is everything."
Wow, I want a faith like that! :)
In light of that, I will share with you an oft-quoted passage from Fr. Pedro Arrupe:
"Nothing is more practical than finding God, that is, than falling in love in a quite absolute, final way. What you are in love with, what seizes your imagination, will affect everything. It will decide what will get you out of bed in the morning, what you will do with your evenings, how you will spend your weekends, what you read, who you know, what breaks your heart, and what amazes you with joy and gratitude.
Fall in love, stay in love and it will decide everything."
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