St. John of the Cross makes an interesting point that it is only after the Dark Night of the Soul that a Catholic moves from meditation to infused contemplation. Father Gabriel, whose book I have been quoting on this blog, states that St. John is clear concerning the strength and courage one gets when one has experienced the "secret, peaceful and loving inflowing of God." One point is important here--that of Garrigou-Lagrange's emphasis and that of Father Gabriel as well--that any person who has a life of recollection is called to this life of infused grace and knowledge of God. However, as all the saints warn us, activity interrupts and ruins this life of the Spirit. Agitation, stress, being concerned about many things as Martha was, instead of sitting at the feet of Jesus and loving Him, stop the natural flow which comes and brings us into this life of infused contemplation. Sometimes we cannot help events which cause us stress. But a good spiritual adviser, which is like finding cold water in a desert these days, can help.
Another huge problem for the modern pilgrim are the temptations to New Age heresies and Eastern Religions, which take us away from the Truth of the Interior Life, although seeming to do the opposite.
The true signs of this level of infused contemplation may astound some. These are a simple faith and a focus on loving God.
The infusion of Divine Light comes when the soul is ready and open. I warn some who think this type of union with God can occur outside of prayer. The answer is no. Work and study do not take the place of prayer and people who say, "My prayer is my work" are just plain wrong. Time must be set aside. Energy and listening for God must be a focus. The moments when infused prayer becomes infused love cannot be missed. St. John laments those who miss the opportunity because of bad advice.
Simplicity demands discipline and guidance. Would that we all had a good and experienced director.
