"Love as revealed by Jesus is the eternal affirmation of the good in each and every thing."
This quote suggests that, according to Hans Urs von Balthasar, Jesus' love reveals an eternal appreciation for the goodness inherent within all things. In other words, Jesus' love affirms and validates the inherent positive qualities in each entity, be it a person or object. This perspective emphasizes the importance of seeing the good in everything and extending love to all aspects of life.
"The Christian knows that this world is indeed under the curse, but he does not know what to make of it, because he also knows that it has been redeemed."
Hans Urs von Balthasar's quote suggests a complex, paradoxical perspective on the world held by Christians. They recognize the world is under a curse due to sin (a state of disorder and suffering), but they also believe it has been redeemed through Jesus Christ. This means that while acknowledging the brokenness in the world, Christians maintain hope for its restoration, seeing evidence of redemption amidst the curse. Essentially, the quote emphasizes a dual understanding: the world is both fallen (under the curse) and transforming (redeemed), inspiring faithfulness amidst challenges and optimism in the face of adversity.
"Art can only grow and develop if it is rooted in faith, for faith gives it its reason for being."
This quote by Hans Urs Von Balthasar suggests that art thrives when deeply connected to faith. The 'reason for being' refers to the purpose or fundamental motivation behind the creation of art. In this context, faith serves as a foundational principle that provides direction, meaning, and a sense of purpose to the artistic endeavor. This perspective implies that the deeper an artist's connection to their faith, the more profound and meaningful their artistic expression becomes.
"Theology without asceticism is empty; asceticism without theology is blind."
This quote highlights the interconnectedness of two fundamental aspects in spirituality: theology (the study of God and religious truths) and asceticism (self-discipline in matters of belief). Balthasar suggests that understanding God and religious principles without applying them in daily life, through self-denial and discipline, is empty and devoid of true meaning. Conversely, practicing self-discipline without a solid foundation in theology risks leading one astray, making the practice blind and lacking direction. In essence, the quote emphasizes that both aspects are necessary for a complete spiritual journey towards God.
"Jesus did not teach us first to love God and then our neighbor, but rather the opposite: first ourselves, then our neighbor, and finally God."
This quote emphasizes a fundamental human experience: self-love is a necessary foundation for loving others and ultimately, God. By first recognizing and accepting oneself, one can then extend compassion and empathy towards others, mirroring the love received. Only from this place of self-awareness and acceptance can we truly open ourselves to the divine love of God. The quote does not promote selfishness or narcissism, but rather underscores that genuine love for both self and neighbor leads us to a deeper understanding and connection with the divine.
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