Christian family Quote by Jean Vanier
““I am convinced that in the present time, in spite of the difficulties man has to meet another in a state of oblation, communion and gift of self, there are latent hidden forces in him which can be awakened in order to enable him to discover and live this reality of love and fidelity. In order to really penetrate into this mystery of the union of the couple, it is essential that each one acquire an interior maturity, a maturity that is perhaps rare. I would add that in order to be truly united and to remain truly faithful to one another, the couple must listen and be open to the Spirit of God who has reserved for Himself the science of the heart. The heart of man is satisfied only by the Infinite and to discover this Infinite in union he must open himself to the Spirit of God, a spirit of giving, of receiving. The union between the two spouses can thus deepen to such an extent that they enter in a mystical manner into the very life of God Himself.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Gift of the Soul, Jean Vanier, 1998
True intimacy requires inner maturity and openness to divine love, allowing couples to awaken hidden capacities for self‑giving and receive God’s presence.
In simple terms: Deep love needs personal growth and spiritual openness.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate inner maturity and spiritual openness.
Themes
love
spirituality
marriage
personal growth
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
inspirational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- marriage counseling
- spiritual retreats
- personal development
- relationship building
Key Concepts
mystical union
divine love
inner maturity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you foster inner maturity in your relationship?
- What practices open you to divine love?
A Different Perspective
Requires both partners to actively pursue spiritual growth, which may be challenging.
![“Many religious leaders don't want it [unity]. they talk about unity and dabble in it, and feign attempts at oneness, but deep down they don't want to give up what they have so they postpone critical commitments to unity. They also contend that differences in belief are the great obstacle to unity…” quote by Joseph Girzone](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b05/joseph-girzone-31876_christian-family_many-religious-leaders-don-t-want-it-uni_1270084.jpg)
