Episode 1490: The Great Means of Salvation and of Perfection - Part 1

What grounds us? Where do we get our strength to carry on with our duty of state while at the same time persueing the whole reason we were created. Well lets first discuss the duty of state and then back into our duty to God.
the concept of "duty of state" is based on the idea that individuals have specific responsibilities and obligations based on their roles and positions in life. This concept emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one's duties and responsibilities in accordance with one's state in life, whether that be as a spouse, parent, worker, or in any other specific role.
For example:
As a Parent: Parents have a duty to care for and raise their children in a loving and nurturing environment, providing for their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. This includes teaching them about the Catholic faith and moral values.

As a Spouse: Married individuals have a duty to love, support, and be faithful to their spouse. They are called to work together in building a strong and stable family life.

As a Worker: People are called to perform their work diligently and honestly, recognizing that their labor contributes to the common good. This also means treating colleagues and subordinates with respect and dignity.

As a Citizen: Catholics are encouraged to be responsible and active citizens, participating in the political process and working for the common good. This may include voting, advocating for just policies, and being aware of social issues.

As a Religious: Those who have taken religious vows (such as priests, monks, and nuns) have a particular duty to live out their religious vows and to serve God and the Church.

The duty of state emphasizes that each person's vocation and circumstances in life come with specific responsibilities that they are expected to fulfill. This concept is rooted in the belief that God has ordained these roles and that by fulfilling one's duties in their state of life, a person is living in accordance with God's will.

It's worth noting that while the concept of "duty of state" is a significant aspect of traditional Catholic moral theology, interpretations and applications may vary among individuals and communities within the broader Catholic tradition.

So what is our duty to God?

So back to the question, what grounds us? If we ever have a question about our matters of duty of state where do we go to? To the experts rights. If its family matters we go to friends, family members or the greatest experts our parents. If its house matters electricans, plumbers or HVAC etc. But you get the idea. We go to those that have already proven they have the experience and we listen right? So to answer the question what grounds us Its quite easy.
Christ gave us the saints as models. But why do we not go to them or better yet why has the church and society fallen out of favor with calling on them. I mean we all have certain feasts the at have great turn outs like the feast of St Rocco so why once a year and not in our daily lives? That answer is quite simple as well. We stopped believing in the power of saints in our lives. Why? That answer is quite easy as well, we have become so overwhelmed with our duty of state that we stopped looking for a means to our salvation and the perfection in our life to gain heaven. We are simply too busy. So doing the life of St. Pulcheria today I thought what a great time to discuss this very matter. Duty to Christ first and then to the duty to state.

When you ask someone how was their day the will usually exhale and say “Oh busy busy”. Then you say what did you do and almost 100% is duty of state. Now why is that the case. Two reasons. The church has stopped teaching and society has stopped believing. So when we are left to our own what do we do? We focus on the duty of state. Its that simple.

Now you are probably say okay walt I bite give me a clue as to what you are getting at. Oh I will. HA. People will ask me to help them build up their spiritual life and I recommend that they first seek a spiritual advisor. Why, because a priest is the best at determining where that person is in their faith and will guide them properly. If the person strikes out I will try to recommend a priest or a nun. But there are certain works that are no brainers in gaining this end. One is the “Soul of the Apostolate” Dom Jean-Baptiste Chautard and the other “The Great Means of Salvation and of Perfection” by St. Alphonsus Liguori.

So you probably guessed by the title of this episode that I want to go through the “The Great Means of Salvation and of Perfection” by St. Alphonsus Liguori because you may be so busy busy you wont take time to read. So since this book has 4 parts and 11 chapters I will take 4 episodes to present this to you but if you want to buy the book and read it as I present it that would be even better.

"The Great Means of Salvation and of Perfection" (Italian: "Le grandezze del divino amore") is a spiritual work written by St. Alphonsus Liguori, a prominent 18th-century Italian Catholic bishop and Doctor of the Church. The book is a classic of Catholic spirituality and offers guidance on the means to attain salvation and pursue a life of Christian perfection. Here is a brief outline of the main Parts of the Book:

Introduction
St. Alphonsus Liguori introduces the central idea of the book: the pursuit of divine love as the ultimate goal of human life.
Part I: The Necessity of Prayer

Chapter 1: The Importance of Prayer

Chapter 1 of "The Great Means of Salvation and of Perfection" by St. Alphonsus Liguori is titled "The Importance of Prayer." In this chapter, St. Alphonsus emphasizes the significance of prayer in the life of a Christian. Here is an overview:

Main Points:

The Necessity of Prayer:

St. Alphonsus begins by asserting that prayer is not optional for Christians; it is a fundamental necessity. He argues that just as air is essential for the body, so is prayer for the soul. Without prayer, the soul withers and weakens.
The Power of Prayer:

The author emphasizes the immense power that lies in prayer. He contends that through prayer, one can obtain everything from God, including forgiveness of sins, virtues, and even the conversion of sinners.
Prayer as a Source of Grace:

St. Alphonsus explains that prayer opens the channels of grace from God to the soul. It is through prayer that individuals receive the strength and assistance they need to overcome challenges and grow in holiness.
Prayer as a Means of Uniting with God:

The chapter highlights that prayer is the means by which individuals can draw closer to God. It fosters intimacy and communion with the Divine, allowing the soul to experience God's presence more deeply.
Prayer in Times of Difficulty:

St. Alphonsus underscores the importance of turning to prayer, especially in times of trouble, affliction, and temptation. He argues that it is through prayer that individuals find solace, guidance, and strength to persevere.
Prayer as a Lifeline for the Soul:

The author likens prayer to a lifeline that connects the soul to God. He emphasizes that just as a branch withers when separated from the vine, so does the soul weaken when disconnected from prayer.
Consistency in Prayer:

St. Alphonsus stresses the need for regular and consistent prayer. He advises against neglecting this vital practice, as it is through regular communion with God that the soul flourishes and grows in holiness.
The Ineffectiveness of a Prayerless Life:

The chapter concludes by warning of the dangers of a prayerless life. St. Alphonsus argues that without prayer, the soul is left vulnerable to the assaults of the devil and is more likely to fall into sin.
Key Takeaways:

Chapter 1 serves as a foundational exposition on the importance of prayer in the Christian life.
St. Alphonsus emphasizes that prayer is not merely a religious obligation but a lifeline for the soul, essential for spiritual growth and salvation.
The chapter encourages readers to recognize the power and efficacy of prayer in obtaining God's grace, strength, and guidance.
Overall, Chapter 1 lays a strong foundation for the subsequent chapters, which delve further into specific aspects of prayer and its role in achieving spiritual perfection.

Chapter 2: Necessity of Prayer for Salvation
In this chapter, St. Alphonsus expounds on the crucial role that prayer plays in the attainment of salvation. Here is an overview:

Main Points:

Salvation as the Ultimate Goal:

St. Alphonsus begins by asserting that the primary purpose of human existence is to attain salvation, which is union with God in eternal happiness.
The Connection Between Prayer and Salvation:

The author argues that prayer is not an optional aspect of the Christian life but a necessary means for achieving salvation. He contends that without prayer, it is exceedingly difficult to persevere in the state of grace and avoid falling into sin.
Overcoming Temptations:

St. Alphonsus emphasizes that without prayer, individuals are more susceptible to succumbing to temptations. Prayer provides the strength and grace needed to resist sinful inclinations.
Obtaining Divine Assistance:

The chapter underscores that through prayer, individuals receive divine assistance and the necessary graces to overcome the challenges and trials of life. This divine aid is essential for the journey towards salvation.
Receiving Forgiveness of Sins:

St. Alphonsus teaches that prayer, particularly acts of contrition and supplication for forgiveness, is instrumental in obtaining God's mercy and the remission of sins.
Growing in Virtue:

The author asserts that through prayer, individuals receive the virtues needed for a holy and virtuous life. Prayer cultivates a disposition of humility, charity, and obedience to God's will.
Strengthening the Relationship with God:

St. Alphonsus emphasizes that prayer is the means by which individuals deepen their relationship with God. It allows for a more profound intimacy with the Divine, leading to a greater understanding of God's love and will.
Preserving the State of Grace:

The chapter concludes by reiterating that consistent prayer is vital for maintaining the state of grace. Without this ongoing communion with God, the soul is more vulnerable to the dangers of sin and spiritual stagnation.
Key Takeaways:

Chapter 2 emphasizes that prayer is not an optional aspect of the Christian life, but a necessary means for achieving salvation.
St. Alphonsus highlights how prayer helps individuals overcome temptations, receive divine assistance, obtain forgiveness of sins, grow in virtue, and deepen their relationship with God.
The chapter reinforces the idea that without prayer, it is challenging to persevere in the state of grace and avoid falling into sin.
Overall, Chapter 2 serves to underscore the critical importance of prayer for the ultimate goal of salvation and lays the foundation for the subsequent chapters on the practice and perfection of divine love through prayer.

Chapter 3: Necessity of Prayer for Those in Sin
the importance of prayer for individuals who find themselves in a state of sin. Here is an overview:

Main Points:

Recognition of Sinful State:

St. Alphonsus begins by acknowledging that sin is a reality in human life. He emphasizes the need for individuals to recognize their sinful state and the urgency to seek reconciliation with God.
The Mercy of God:

The author emphasizes the boundless mercy of God, asserting that no matter how great one's sins may be, God's mercy is always available to those who sincerely seek it through prayer.
The Role of Contrition:

St. Alphonsus highlights the importance of contrition, genuine sorrow for one's sins, as a prerequisite for receiving God's forgiveness. He explains that contrition is cultivated through heartfelt prayer.
Prayer as a Path to Conversion:

The chapter emphasizes that prayer is the means by which individuals can begin the process of conversion. Through prayer, they express their desire to turn away from sin and return to God.
Seeking the Sacrament of Reconciliation:

St. Alphonsus encourages those in sin to approach the sacrament of reconciliation. He stresses that prayer plays a vital role in preparing the heart and soul for this sacramental encounter with God's mercy.
Prayer for Grace to Overcome Sin:

The author suggests that individuals in a state of sin should pray fervently for the grace and strength needed to overcome their sinful habits and inclinations.
Avoiding Despair:

St. Alphonsus warns against the danger of falling into despair, even in the face of grave sins. He reassures that God's mercy is greater than any sin, and sincere prayer opens the door to reconciliation.
The Example of the Prodigal Son:

The chapter references the parable of the Prodigal Son to illustrate how sincere repentance and prayer lead to the loving embrace of the Father.
Key Takeaways:

Chapter 3 emphasizes the need for individuals in a state of sin to turn to prayer as a means of seeking God's mercy and reconciliation.
St. Alphonsus stresses the importance of genuine contrition and highlights prayer as a powerful tool in fostering a repentant heart.
The chapter provides encouragement for those in sin to approach the sacrament of reconciliation, underscoring the role of prayer in preparing the soul for this sacramental encounter.
Overall, Chapter 3 offers practical guidance for individuals who find themselves in a state of sin, emphasizing the transformative power of prayer in the process of repentance and reconciliation with God.