The Discipline and Other Physical Mortifications

[vivnes]

This is a complex issue. Exterior mortification done well is a sign of being blessed and overtaken by God. But they are meaningless without interior mortification.

“Jesus’ call to conversion and penance, like that of the prophets before him, does not aim first at outward works, “sackcloth and ashes,” fasting and mortification, but at the conversion of the heart, interior conversion . Without this, such penances remain sterile and false; however, interior conversion urges expression in visible signs, gestures and works of penance.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1430)

Spirit of Penance, Path to God ; Dom Hubert Van Zeller: a very comprehensive book in understanding the issue, published by Sophia Institute Press.

 

[Mary888]

you think that in the final stage if the spiritual life every saint has to practice some degree of discipline?

I think some of the saints just did it without even thinking of it. I also believe in the Coptic perception that certain key saints were more special from birth because they just had more faith. Not in a self-excusing way but in an awe filled way.
When you read about the Martyrs I am just floored. Something in me wants that.
They seemed detached from the world in a godly way. Some say they felt no pain yet nobody knows for sure.
What I know for sure is that I could read many prayers on my knees until getting numb. Yet I had problem with the heart prayer said in my mind.
Until some days I was just weakened by fasting, stressed out, coming out of a flu, and was waiting for the bus. Then the prayer hit me - Sweet Jesus, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner.
First time I could say it in my mind for half an hour bus ride. I couldn’t believe it.
Maybe in this world we just define happiness the wrong way. And yes our obsession with beauty and health isn’t helping.
God is always present but He seems more present in times of strife. Yet strife should be somewhat natural and unforced.
I don’t condemn the discipline except I don’t think Love can be hurried. It happens as it happens when it happens.