Reflection 12

It was amazing to know that there is an influential movement in our time before. This movement was not interested in abstract philosophy but in personal renewal, individual growth in holiness and religious experience. It was good to know that there was a time before that people were given the privileged to develop and grow in their spiritual life. We have observed and found particular people in this time. These people were German Pietist leaders Phillip Jakob Spener and August Hermann Francke, and how they proposed practical steps for ecclesial and social reform, shunned unnecessary conflict, and emphasized the Christian virtues of love and hope.

Though their work was not that easy but we can see that they were able to endure and persevere just to stand to their beliefs. It is our tendency many times that we want to give up and not finish what we have started but with Spener and Francke, they made it. Despite of challenges they faced in their lives, still they continue especially in their spiritual growth in the Jesus Christ. I am thankful that studying this subject and the happenings are not a waste because I have learned so much.

In my study of Pietism, not only have I been able to research and learn more about the history and theology of the Pietism movement, but I also have been able to learn much about myself and, especially, my own theological beliefs. The past year of my life has provided me with an opportunity for spiritual growth like never before. I found that my initial childhood beliefs needed to be broken down in order to rebuild a faith of my own. In this challenge, I have learned of my internal desire for a faith breathed through social action.