Turning to the Mystics with James Finley Thérèse of Lisieux: Session 1
Mar 23, 2026
A close reading of Thérèse of Lisieux’s Story of a Soul and the reasons she wrote it. Reflections on family love, obedience as simple practice, and finding God in ordinary life. Exploration of suffering, waiting, and the dark night as paths to interior growth. A meditation on the ‘little flower’ image and seeing divine presence in nature, finished with a guided silent prayer.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Therese Was Asked To Write By Her Sister Prioress
- James Finley recounts how Therese was asked by her prioress (her older sister) to write Story of a Soul, calling her "dear mother twice over."
- This family love shaped Therese's sensitivity to God's presence and grounded her decision to enter the cloister at 15.
Obedience Protects You From Narcissistic Self Focus
- Therese feared self-focus would distract from the love that revealed God in her family life.
- She discovered obedience as a remedy: simple obedience deepened her awareness of being loved by God within everyday relationships.
Spiritual Growth Often Comes Through Subtle Groanings
- Finley emphasizes the Spirit's subtle groanings that inspire right action and listening, not loud revelation.
- He links this to how inner waiting and lack of immediate light can cultivate dependence on God and deeper insights.
