By Prabath Sanjeeva Fernando, SJ
‘A Meditation on the Two Standards’ is one of the most profound meditations in the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. A “standard” refers to a flag, symbolizing a broader spiritual significance. This unique meditation, situated in the second week, the fourth day of the Spiritual Exercises, presents two flags: one representing Christ Jesus, and the other representing Lucifer.
This concept highlights the stark disparity between benevolence and malignancy. This meditation is designed to help individuals discern between the forces of good and evil in their lives, guiding them towards thanksgiving, life-giving, and faith-growing choices that align with their spiritual values and the teachings of Christ. Further, the exercise invites the individual to know intimately, love convincingly, and make deliberate and committed choices in following Jesus, and embracing a life marked by, ‘in everything to love and to serve’.
Two flags, two leaders:
A. Christ – Eternal Leader: – Leadership of Service: Christ, as the leader under the standard of good, calls people to follow Him through a life of humility, love, and service. He emphasizes and advocates servant leadership. -Virtuous Living: Followers of Christ are called to embody values such as justice, freedom, and love; virtues such as faith, hope, and charity. They are encouraged to live selflessly, placing the needs of others before their own, and seeking to build a just and compassionate society.
B.) Satan – Mortal Enemy: – Leadership of Deception: In contrast, Satan, under the standard of evil, uses deception and false promises to lure followers. He promotes vices such as pride, greed, and the pursuit of power and material wealth. – Virtual Temptations: Followers of Satan are tempted to prioritize self-interest and the acquisition of worldly possessions. These temptations lead to actions that harm others and create divisions within society.
Pauline tug-of-war:
St. Paul’s struggle with dualism is a profound exploration of the human condition, emphasizing the tension between sin and righteousness, flesh and spirit, and the old and new selves. His teachings provide a framework for understanding the complexities of spiritual growth and the transformative power of faith in Christ.
A.) Flesh vs. Spirit: – Flesh (Sarx): In Pauline theology, ‘flesh’ often represents human nature in its fallen state, prone to sin and weakness. It signifies a life driven by earthly desires and selfish inclinations.- Spirit (Pneuma): In contrast, ‘spirit’ represents the renewed human nature that is aligned with God’s will. It signifies a life led by the fruits of the Holy Spirit such as peace, joy, and self-control.
Moreover, Romans chapter 7 is a relatable depiction of the human condition and the moral struggle that every believer experiences. Paul’s honesty about his struggles with sin offers comfort and encouragement, reminding believers that they are not alone in their battles and that victory is found in Christ. Further, Paul presents the tug-of-war between good and evil, the subtleness that prevails in choosing benevolence over malignancy.
St. Paul’s struggle with dualism is a profound exploration of the human condition, emphasizing the tension between sin and righteousness, flesh and spirit, and the old and new selves.
The Two Towers:
At this juncture, I wish to draw inspiration from the film adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Two Towers, directed by the celebrated filmmaker Peter Jackson. In the movie, Frodo, a hobbit, embarks on a perilous journey to Mordor to destroy the ring of power created by the dark lord Sauron. The film vividly portrays the diabolic nature of evil, emphasizing the devil’s craftiness and ability to deceive.For Christians, discernment and vigilance are imperative to avoid succumbing to the deceptive devices of the Evil One.
Moreover, a significant moment in the story occurs when Gandalf and King Theoden confront Saruman at the tower of Orthanc. This dialogue exemplifies the message of Ephesians 6:11, which admonishes us to guard ourselves against the devil’s schemes. Scripture consistently exhorts believers to be alert because the forces of evil seek to deceive and ensnare. The deceptive nature of the evil one is quite subtle. Thus, we as Christians must remain ever vigilant and watchful to the tiny whispers of the Eternal King who continues to beckon us to be with Him.
The Combat:
Yet another perspective could be drawn from the native American parable of the Cherokee tribe. The parable offers a profound idea of this spiritual dichotomy.
‘An elder Cherokee teaches his grandson about an internal battle between two wolves. The first represents evil, anger, envy, greed, and ego. The second denotes good, joy, peace, love, and faith. When the grandson inquires which wolf will prevail, the elder responds, “The one you feed the most.” This parable highlights the importance of the choices we make and the values we cultivate within ourselves. It serves as a reminder that our inner conflicts and decisions shape our character and ultimately determine to overcome the evil and forces of darkness by adhering to the peaceful, benevolent, and loving plans of the King.
In the film adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Two Towers, directed by the celebrated filmmaker Peter Jackson, a hobbit embarks on a perilous journey to Mordor to destroy the ring of power created by the dark lord Sauron.
The bi-polar:
Having seen how the two standards emerge as a powerful metaphor, let us now try to make it relevant to our times. Therefore, reimagining the meditation on Two Standards in today’s context can provide valuable insights into modern challenges and decision-making. The clear examen between the values of Christ and the vices of Satan can help individuals navigate complex ethical dilemmas, societal pressures, and personal struggles.
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition. It is exemplified by a wide range of spectrum of mood changes. The benevolence gives birth to connectivity despite the vivid isolation offered by malignancy.
Connectivity and Isolation: – Connectivity: social media and digital platforms have connected people globally, allowing instant communication and community building. – Isolation: At the same time, these technologies can lead to social isolation, decreased face-to-face interactions, and mental health issues.
In today’s rapidly changing world, the lessons we draw from the ‘Two Standards’ remain profoundly relevant. The meditation is not just a historical exercise but an ongoing formative contemplation. The duos challenge us to consider the ethical implications of our actions, strive for justice and compassion, cultivate virtues that contribute to the common good, and prevail in benevolence.
As we face the dualistic nature of our inner and outer worlds, let us re-commit to feeding the ‘good wolf’ in the Spirit. Let us pledge to lead our lives under the banner of Jesus. Let us seize the benevolence of the transformative power of knowing, loving, and following Jesus comprehensively in the Ignatian way.
Prabath Sanjeeva Fernando, SJ (SRI), works at Loyola Campus-Wellawaya, Sri Lanka. He can be contacted at sanjsj@gmail.com.