DeepSummary
The episode is a conversation between Matt Fradd and Christopher West, discussing West's new book 'Eating the Sunrise' and exploring themes of desire, beauty, and the sacramental understanding of the world. West explains how the book aims to awaken a sense of wonder and appreciation for the liturgy and the hunger within us for true beauty and fulfillment.
They delve into the importance of recognizing and embracing our longing for God, rather than numbing or distorting it through idolatry or despair. West emphasizes the need to 'liturgize' our desires, orienting them towards the coming of the Bridegroom, Jesus Christ. He shares personal stories of his own journey of healing and discusses the role of pain and vulnerability in spiritual growth.
The discussion touches on themes like the meaning of human sexuality, the dangers of pornography and contraception, and the redemptive power of Christ's mercy. West stresses the importance of seeing the world through a 'sacramental lens' and highlights the wisdom found in literature, poetry, and the lives of the saints.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Embrace and 'liturgize' our deepest desires, orienting them towards Christ and the Eucharist, rather than numbing or distorting them.
- See the world through a 'sacramental lens', recognizing creation as a sign pointing towards the Divine.
- Pain, vulnerability, and openness to God's mercy are essential for spiritual growth and healing.
- Human sexuality and the union of man and woman reveal profound spiritual truths about our destiny for union with God.
- The lives of saints, literature, and art can awaken a sense of wonder and point us towards transcendent realities.
- The liturgy, especially in the ad orientem posture, can Orient us towards the 'rising sun' of Christ.
- Surround ourselves with 'shit detectors' who will lovingly challenge our blindspots and call us to humility.
- Our deepest longings will never be fulfilled by created things alone, but by union with the infinite God.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “What is worship? We worship whatever we think is going to satisfy our hunger.“ by Christopher West
- “Eros is the desire in us that passionately rushes toward divinization.“ by Christopher West
- “I once heard it said, if you're on a bus ride to heaven, you don't want the bus driver facing you, right?“ by Christopher West
- “A saint is someone who has all of his shit open to the merciful love of the father.“ by Christopher West
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Episode Information
Pints With Aquinas
Matt Fradd
3/20/24
Christopher West joins the show to talk about his new book "Eating the Sunrise".
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