Episode 2463: The Double Work of Recollection and Detachment - Nightly Episode

Welcome to today's episode, where we explore two deeply intertwined spiritual practices: recollection and detachment. We will reflect on how these practices can transform our daily lives and bring us closer to Christ. Our journey begins with the words of St. Paul in his letter to the Ephesians, where he calls us to “be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ.” (Ephesians 5:21). This call to mutual submission is a foundation of Christian charity and humility, urging us to live in reverence for Christ by serving one another.
Additionally, we will contemplate the wisdom of Raoul Plus, a 20th-century Jesuit priest and spiritual writer, who said: “Anyone who tries, on a given day, to practice either recollection or detachment cannot ignore the fact that he is doing a double stroke of work.” These practices require effort and discipline, but they are essential for deepening our relationship with God and living out our faith with greater intentionality.
Living in Reverence for Christ through Mutual Submission
St. Paul’s words in his letter to the Ephesians— “Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21)—summarize the essence of Christian humility. Submission here is not about domination or inequality; it is about love, service, and respect for the dignity of every person. When we place ourselves at the service of others, we mirror Christ’s own humility, who, though He was God, emptied Himself and took on the form of a servant (Philippians 2:7).
This mutual submission calls us to recognize Christ in one another and to act in ways that honor His presence in our brothers and sisters. It is an invitation to live the Gospel, not merely in words but through concrete actions of love and charity. This is the heart of Christian community each person serving the other out of reverence for Christ.
In our daily lives, this can be seen in small acts of kindness, patience, and understanding. It is seen when we prioritize the needs of others above our own, when we forgive those who have wronged us, and when we seek reconciliation rather than conflict. In this way, our lives become a living reflection of Christ’s love and sacrifice.
The Double Work of Recollection and Detachment
Raoul Plus reminds us of the dual nature of the spiritual work required to grow in holiness: “Anyone who tries, on a given day, to practice either recollection or detachment cannot ignore the fact that he is doing a double stroke of work.” Recollection and detachment are two sides of the same coin both necessary for living a life centered on God.
Recollection is the practice of interior stillness, where we withdraw from the noise and distractions of the world to focus on the presence of God within us. It requires discipline and effort, as our minds are naturally inclined to wander. Recollection is about turning our hearts and minds back to God throughout the day, creating a space within us where God can dwell.
Detachment, on the other hand, is the letting go of worldly attachments—both material and emotional—that prevent us from fully surrendering to God’s will. Detachment does not mean indifference or lack of care, but rather, a proper ordering of our loves. We must love God above all things and allow everything else in our lives to take its rightful place in relation to Him. This can be difficult, especially in a world that constantly encourages us to seek pleasure, success, and comfort above all else.
Practicing recollection and detachment together is indeed a “double stroke of work,” as Raoul Plus describes, because it requires us to constantly balance the interior life of prayer with the exterior life of action. Yet, it is through this double work that we grow in our relationship with God, learning to place Him at the center of all that we do.
Embracing the Call to Holiness
As we reflect on the words of St. Paul and Raoul Plus, we are reminded that the Christian life is a call to holiness, which requires both internal and external transformation. The more we practice recollection and detachment, the more we will be able to live in reverence for Christ and in service to one another.
This is not an easy path. It demands perseverance, humility, and a constant turning toward God. But as we grow in these practices, we will find that our lives become more peaceful, more focused on what truly matters, and more aligned with God’s will.
Holiness is not just for the saints; it is the vocation of every Christian. By living in reverence for Christ and embracing the double work of recollection and detachment, we can take concrete steps toward that holiness in our own lives.
Conclusion
Today, we have explored the themes of mutual submission out of reverence for Christ, and the challenging yet rewarding work of practicing recollection and detachment. These practices are at the heart of the Christian journey, leading us closer to God and helping us to live lives of true holiness.
As we go forth from this episode, let us strive to put these teachings into practice, seeking to serve others with humility and to grow in our interior life with God. Through His grace, may we persevere in this “double stroke of work,” knowing that it leads to deeper union with Him.
Closing Prayer
Lord Jesus,
We thank You for the gift of Your Word and for the teachings of the saints that guide us on our journey toward holiness. Help us to live in reverence for You by serving one another with love and humility. Grant us the grace to practice recollection and detachment in our daily lives, drawing closer to You with every step we take. May we seek Your will in all things, and may our lives be a reflection of Your love and grace.
Through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother, we ask this in Your Holy Name.
Amen.