I am firmly convinced that the Reformation of the sixteenth century was
as near as any mortal thing can come to unmixed evil. Even the parts of
it that might appear plausible and enlightened from a purely secular
standpoint have turned out rotten and reactionary, also from a purely
secular standpoint. By substituting the Bible for the sacrament, it
created a pedantic caste of those who could read, superstitiously
identified with those who could think. By destroying the monks, it took
social work from the poor philanthropists who chose to deny themselves,
and gave it to the rich philanthropists who chose to assert themselves.
By preaching individualism while preserving inequality, it produced
modern capitalism. It destroyed the only league of nations that ever had
a chance. It produced the worst wars of nations that ever existed. It
produced the most efficient form of Protestantism, which is Prussia. And
it is producing the worst part of paganism, which is slavery. –G.K.
Chesterton
I like
this:
Winter preserves and strengthens a tree. Rather than expending its
strength on the exterior surface, its sap is forced deeper and deeper
into its interior depth. In winter a tougher, more resilient life is
firmly established. Winter is necessary for the tree to survive and
flourish.
Instantly you see the application. So often we hide our true condition
with the surface virtues of pious activity, but, once the leaves of our
frantic pace drop away, the power of a wintry spirituality can have
effect.
To the outward eye everything looks barren and unsightly. Our many
defects, flaws, weaknesses, and imperfections stand out in bold relief.
But only the outward virtues have collapsed; the principle of virtue is
actually being strengthened. The soul is venturing forth into the
interior. Real, solid, enduring virtues begin to develop deep within.
Pure love is being birthed.
Richard Foster, Prayer: Finding the Heart's True Home
