Chastity
Divine Intimacy #88
Chastity is about respecting one’s body. Not only that, but it’s also about respecting our senses and their use. Impure thoughts and desires, Jesus said, come from the heart, for that is where slavery to the body begins. The eye is the portal; being careful to watch over it is imperative.
The meditation goes on to discuss chastity in religious, consecrated, and married vocations. Married people are called to be collaborators with God in bringing life into the world. If God calls a man or woman to be a religious or consecrated person, the decision to give your life to Christ as your spouse is a gift like no other.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t mention singles who are widows, widowers, divorcees, or those who prefer not to marry. Are we missing something here? No, I don’t think so. Back in 1953, when this was written, being single would probably follow the same path as religious/consecrated vocations. It should be like that today, too. So sad that we are very far from it.
I do believe that, no matter what vocation we hold in life - single, married, or religious/consecrated - we all need control of our eyes in order to maintain a chaste life. Our world has changed, and it’s very evident on television, in public, and on social media that the bodies of men and women appear more and more often in sinful ways that can cause near occasions of sin.
As St. Ignatius said, be aware (of what is happening), understand (where it is coming from), and take action (shield the eyes, walk away, pray for them and all they encounter). And like a popular song many years ago, respect yourself.