The Purification Process: Navigating the Challenges of the Purgative Stage

In our ongoing exploration of the spiritual journey, this week's podcast episode delves into the purgative stage of spiritual growth. This stage, characterized by self-examination and purification, is a critical part of our path towards sainthood. But why is it often so difficult to move past this stage and what can we learn from this challenging phase of spiritual development?

The Essence of the Purgative Stage:

The purgative stage is the initial step on our path of spiritual growth. It's a time of self-examination and purification, where we confront our sins and attachments. In essence, it's a journey of purification, much like the process of purgatory. But what makes this stage so challenging?

The Challenge of Self-Examination:

One of the primary difficulties of the purgative stage is the need for self-examination. It requires us to look deep within ourselves and confront our flaws, sins, and attachments. This process can be uncomfortable and humbling. It involves acknowledging our imperfections and striving for repentance.

Letting Go of Attachments:

The purgative stage also challenges us to let go of material attachments, worldly desires, and habits that hinder our spiritual growth. Detaching from these can be emotionally and spiritually taxing. It often feels like we're losing a part of ourselves.

Repentance and Humility:

In this stage, we must cultivate a spirit of repentance and humility. Admitting our sins and seeking reconciliation can be emotionally demanding. It requires a level of humility and vulnerability that is not always easy to achieve.

Perseverance in Prayer:

Purging our souls also involves consistent prayer and communication with God. This can be challenging, especially when we feel distant from God or struggle to find the right words.

Why We Must Persist:

Despite the challenges, it's essential to persist through the purgative stage. The purging process is necessary for our spiritual growth and eventual union with God. As we let go of our attachments and repent, we draw closer to Him.

The purgative stage is undoubtedly a challenging part of our spiritual journey. However, it's a phase of purification that paves the way for deeper spiritual growth. It's a time of self-examination, repentance, and detachment. While difficult, it is a critical step towards becoming closer to God and, ultimately, achieving sainthood. By navigating these challenges with faith and perseverance, we can emerge from the purgative stage stronger and more connected to our spiritual path. In our next episode, we'll explore how we can progress from this phase toward the illuminative stage, where spiritual enlightenment awaits.

Be Focused… Be Fresh… and Be Fresh!