#F461 Terapia das Doenças Espirituais.18- Terapia da acídia

Summary

The script discusses the spiritual therapy for acedia, a form of spiritual laziness, emphasizing the importance of stability in one's vocation and daily tasks. It advocates for quietness in one's calling and suggests focusing on humble, everyday work while keeping one's heart and mind connected to God. The speaker also highlights the significance of prayer and rest in combating acedia, urging individuals to embrace their daily crosses and find spiritual transformation through love and service to God.

Takeaways

• 🙏 The script discusses the concept of 'acedia' or spiritual sloth, describing it as a form of laziness that leads to restlessness and a lack of focus on one's personal identity and calling.
• 🔑 It emphasizes the importance of 'stabilitas' or stability in one's vocation, suggesting that one should remain steadfast in their calling rather than constantly changing their spiritual practices or life purposes.
• 🛠 The text highlights the need for humility in work, referencing teachings from early Christian monks and the importance of engaging in humble, manual labor as a form of spiritual practice.
• 🌱 It suggests applying the principle of 'labora' or work to modern life, recommending that one should focus on their daily duties and tasks with a heart directed towards God.
• 🕊️ The script mentions St. Francis de Sales as a guide for spiritual direction, especially in his advice on maintaining a balance between daily tasks and contemplation of God.
• 📖 It discusses the importance of prayer and the need for prayer that is more than just imaginative or sensory, but rather one that involves the will and the soul in a truly spiritual way.
• ⏳ The text touches on the idea of 'ora et labora', the Benedictine motto, which means 'pray and work', indicating that prayer and daily work should go hand in hand.
• 🤲 It stresses the significance of accepting one's daily crosses and using them as opportunities for spiritual growth and love of Jesus, moving beyond mere physical or sensory experiences.
• 💖 The love for Jesus in the midst of suffering is presented as a powerful tool to overcome acedia, suggesting that embracing suffering out of love for Christ can lead to spiritual transformation.
• 🕊️ The script concludes with a prayer for guidance and transformation, asking for the grace to become the saints that God intends for each person to be, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Q & A

What is the main theme discussed in the video script?

The main theme discussed in the video script is the concept of 'acedia' or spiritual sloth, and how it relates to one's vocation and daily life, particularly in the context of Christian spiritual therapy.

What does the term 'acedia' refer to in the script?

In the script, 'acedia' is described as a form of spiritual laziness or restlessness, where an individual feels a constant urge to change or escape from their current state or vocation, rather than embracing and fulfilling it.

How does the script suggest dealing with the feeling of sadness or dissatisfaction with one's calling?

The script suggests that if one feels sad or dissatisfied with their calling, it might be a sign of acedia. It advises focusing on one's daily duties and obligations with dedication and stability, rather than constantly seeking change.

What is the concept of 'stabilitas' mentioned in the script?

The concept of 'stabilitas' in the script refers to the stability and consistency in one's vocation and daily life. It is about being faithful to one's daily routine and not being swayed by the temptation to change or seek novelty.

How does the script relate the story of Martha to the concept of acedia?

The script uses the story of Martha as an example of someone who is restless and distracted by many things, which is a characteristic of acedia. Martha's restlessness is contrasted with the stability and focus on one's vocation that the script advocates.

What is the role of work in overcoming acedia according to the script?

According to the script, engaging in humble and consistent work is a way to overcome acedia. It suggests focusing on one's daily tasks and responsibilities as a means to find stability and resist the restlessness associated with acedia.

What does the script suggest about the importance of prayer in the context of acedia?

The script suggests that prayer is crucial in combating acedia. It emphasizes the need for prayer that involves the will and the heart, rather than just the imagination or the body, to truly connect with God and find peace.

How does the script connect the idea of 'laborare' (working) with spiritual growth?

The script connects 'laborare' with spiritual growth by stating that engaging in daily work, even if it is humble, can be a form of spiritual practice. It is about doing one's work with dedication and seeing it as a service to God.

What is the significance of the Sabbath or Sunday in the script's discussion on acedia?

The Sabbath or Sunday is significant in the script's discussion on acedia as it represents a day of rest and dedication to God. It is a time when one should focus on prayer and spiritual activities, which can help counteract the restlessness of acedia.

How does the script use the teachings of Saint Francis de Sales to address acedia?

The script uses the teachings of Saint Francis de Sales to address acedia by emphasizing the importance of focusing on God during one's daily work and activities. It suggests that even in the midst of ordinary tasks, one should remember God and keep their heart connected to Him.

What is the script's stance on the use of imagination in prayer for someone struggling with acedia?

The script suggests that while imagination can be a part of prayer, it may not be sufficient for someone struggling with acedia. It emphasizes the need for prayer that involves the will and the heart, rather than just visualizing or imagining.