In the 'Advent Day 6' video featuring Richard Rohr and Kate Bowler, they discuss the concept of 'necessary suffering' in the spiritual journey. Richard Rohr, drawing from Carl Jung, suggests that people often find themselves on a spiritual path due to challenging life events such as job loss, illness, addiction, or personal brokenness. Kate Bowler shares her experience of feeling surprised and somewhat insulted by her own suffering, noting how she felt like she had failed somehow. They discuss the shame and stigma attached to suffering in modern culture, where suffering can be misconstrued as a personal failure.
Rohr highlights the wisdom of one of his favorite Catholic mystics, the Little Flower (Saint Therese of Lisieux), who said that 'God does not know mathematics.' This quote is used to illustrate the idea that in the spiritual journey, traditional measures of success and transactional relationships (counting, measuring, weighing, deserving) are irrelevant. They emphasize that a focus on such metrics can lead to a spiritual dead-end. This perspective is contrasted with the prevalent capitalist mindset, which often frames reality in terms of quantifiable exchanges.
Kate Bowler mentions a quote by the Little Flower about doing small things with great love, a philosophy adopted by Mother Teresa. The discussion revolves around the idea that small acts, done with love and compassion, are spiritually significant, even if they don't seem grand on the surface.
Overall, the conversation focuses on reframing the understanding of suffering in life, recognizing the spiritual significance in small acts of love, and challenging the conventional metrics by which society often measures success and worth.
Journal and reflect on the following
What does Richard Rohr mean by 'necessary suffering,' and how does he suggest it impacts our spiritual journey?
This question encourages participants to explore the concept of necessary suffering and its role in spiritual growth, as discussed by Rohr.
Kate Bowler mentions feeling almost insulted by her life falling apart unexpectedly. Can you relate to her reaction to suffering or unexpected challenges in your own life?
This question invites personal reflection on how individuals respond to unexpected difficulties and the emotions that accompany such experiences.
Richard Rohr and Kate Bowler discuss the cultural shame attached to suffering. Why do you think our society might attach shame to suffering, and how can this perspective be changed?
This question aims to delve into societal perceptions of suffering and explore ways to shift these views toward a more compassionate understanding.
Rohr references the Little Flower, who said, 'God does not know mathematics.' What do you think she meant by this, and how does it relate to the way we often measure and compare our lives?
This prompts discussion on the spiritual insight that divine judgment and human judgment (particularly in terms of quantifying and comparing) differ fundamentally.
How does the idea that 'God knows nothing about mathematics' challenge the conventional ways we frame reality in capitalist societies?
This question explores the contrast between spiritual values and capitalist values, particularly the emphasis on quantification and transaction in the latter.
Discuss the significance of doing 'little things with great love,' as mentioned by the Little Flower and echoed by Mother Teresa. How can this principle be applied in everyday life?
Participants can discuss practical ways to implement this philosophy in daily actions and interactions, emphasizing the impact of small acts of kindness and love.
Considering the themes of the talk, how can embracing the concept of 'necessary suffering' and the rejection of societal norms about success and measurement help us grow spiritually during the Advent season?
This question ties the discussion back to the season of Advent, asking how these spiritual insights can enhance one's preparation and reflection during this time.
Discuss with your family or community.
Song - Lauren Daigle - Light Of The World
Final Prayer
Gracious God, as we journey through Advent and reflect on the lessons shared by Richard Rohr and Kate Bowler, we ask for Your wisdom to embrace the necessary suffering and transformations in our lives. Help us to see these challenges as opportunities to deepen our faith and draw closer to You. Instill in us a spirit of humility and strength, that we may forgive abundantly and love unconditionally, just as You have shown us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we await His coming, let us find solace in Your presence, knowing that in our moments of brokenness, You are forging paths of mercy and hope. May our hearts remain open to the lessons of this season and the continual call to follow You more closely. Amen.
