... At times, however, they are so keen that the soul seems to be seeing hell and perdition opened. Of such are they that in truth go down alive into hell, being purged here on earth in the same manner as there, since this purgation is that which would have to be accomplished there. And thus the soul that passes through this either enters not that place125 at all, or tarries there but for a very short time; for one hour of purgation here is more profitable than are many there.
This last sentence resonates like thunder rolling up over a valley. If one is shown a place in hell, one may be confused as to what the symbolism or content mean. The reality begins to dawn on one that unless one goes forward into more purgation and purification, that place waits.
There is no turning back in the spiritual life. One either moves forward, or slides back into old ways.
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| Painting by Xaver Triner (1767-1824), commissioned by the Government of the Canton Schwyz, - See more at: http://historyofgeology.fieldofscience.com/2010/09/2-september-1806-landslide-of-goldau.html#sthash.HXGDsdgA.dpuf |
