Why Lent? Innocence, Sin, and Redemption | Fr. Gregory Pine, OP
Mar 8, 2019
auto_awesome
Fr. Gregory Pine discusses Lent as a journey of loss and recovery, focusing on innocence, sin, and redemption. He explores concepts like grace, original sin, and seeking conformity to Christ. The importance of penitential practices, spiritual growth through self-denial, and humanity's destination in heaven are highlighted.
Lent prompts reflection on human imperfections and the journey towards redemption through spiritual practices.
Criticism of the idea of inevitable progress due to original sin and human weaknesses challenges modern beliefs.
Embracing humility and vigilance in spiritual growth, along with critiquing the concept of progression, are essential for individual redemption.
Deep dives
The Meaning and Importance of Lent
Lent challenges individuals to confront their limitations, weaknesses, and need for redemption through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. It is a season that highlights humanity's imperfections and the necessity for growth and spiritual progress, emphasizing the flawed nature of humans and the potential for salvation despite struggles and setbacks.
Criticism of the Notion of Inevitable Progress
Critics argue against the belief in inevitable progress, highlighting the presence of original sin and the principle of devolution in human existence. The perception that humanity will continually progress towards happiness and abundance through technological advances is challenged by the reality of human weaknesses and the prevalence of selfishness and moral turpitude.
Adoption of Humility and Vigilance in Spiritual Progress
G.K. Chesterton and J.R.R. Tolkien question the concept of progress, advocating for humility and vigilance in spiritual growth. Embracing a long defeat and acknowledging the role of original sin in human endeavors, they stress the importance of critiquing the idea of inevitable evolution and remaining watchful in spiritual pursuits.
Exploring Original Grace and Integral Nature
The concept of original grace and integral nature illuminates humanity's initial state characterized by a harmonious relationship with God and a balance between desire and knowledge. These aspects signify a sense of alignment with God's divine life and a state of perfection devoid of suffering or decay, portraying an idealized existence that contrasts with the challenges of human nature post-original sin.
The Journey of Redemption and Spiritual Progress
The path of redemption involves a transformation from brokenness to wholeness through a rehearsal of redemption. Individuals navigate the dynamic interplay of innocence, sin, and redemption, striving for spiritual progress and a deeper connection with Christ. Lent symbolizes a symbolic walk mirroring Christ's journey, encouraging individuals to embrace penitence and redemption as key elements of their spiritual growth.
Fr. Gregory Pine explores the idea of Lent as a penitential season that helps individuals confront their own limitations and weaknesses, challenging the notion of inevitable progress and perfection. He delves into the Christian concepts of original justice, original sin, and redemption, highlighting how these shape human nature and our relationship with God.
This talk was given by Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. for the Thomistic Institute's University College Dublin chapter on March 6, 2019.
For more information on upcoming events, please visit our website: thomisticinstitute.org.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode