The Vox Divini Voyage begins with the Foundational Stage, where we first learn to walk with God. It is the stage of beginning again and again, as we build the habits of prayer, resist sin, and grow in our desire for the Lord. But in this early stage, we stumble often. Scripture reminds us, “The righteous falls seven times and rises again” (Prov 24:16). Falling is not failure. The real danger is delaying our return. What matters most is rising without delay.
The Importance of Rising Promptly
In this stage, it’s common to fall into patterns of sin—anger, laziness, gossip, or impure thoughts—and then hesitate before turning back to God. We may feel too ashamed or discouraged, thinking we must “fix ourselves” before we pray again. But Jesus says, “Come to me, all who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest” (Mt 11:28). His call is immediate, and His rest is available now—not later.
The Church teaches that even when the Sacrament of Reconciliation isn’t immediately available, we should turn back to God right away. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “When it arises from a love by which God is loved above all else, contrition is called ‘perfect.’ Such contrition remits venial sins; it also obtains forgiveness of mortal sins if it includes the firm resolution to have recourse to sacramental confession as soon as possible” (CCC 1452).
A sincere Act of Contrition, made with love and a resolve to confess soon, restores our relationship with God. Delaying only increases discouragement. As St. Don Bosco once said, “Never delay your Confession beyond a week. If you wait longer, your soul will become weak and fall again.” (From his instructions to youth at the Oratory).
Making Each Fall a Lesson
In every fall, there’s an invitation to grow in awareness. Jesus said to the woman caught in adultery, “Go, and do not sin again” (Jn 8:11). That command wasn’t just about avoiding sin—it was a call to be attentive and responsive.
Reflecting after each fall is crucial. What led to it? Was I tired, distracted, or spiritually careless? Was I neglecting prayer? Awareness helps us build boundaries—like avoiding late-night distractions, beginning the day with prayer, or walking away from conversations that lead us to gossip. Over time, this awareness strengthens us. As Jesus teaches in the parable of the wise virgins (Mt 25:1–13), staying ready is part of spiritual maturity.
St. Francis de Sales, whose approach deeply influences the Vox Divini Voyage, writes:
“Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them.”
(Introduction to the Devout Life, Part III, Ch. 9).
This is exactly the heart of rising without delay—recognizing our fall, but moving toward God swiftly, not sulking in shame.
Growing Stronger Through Every Rise
In the foundational stage, we’re not seeking perfection—we’re learning to respond quickly and humbly. St. Paul says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9). The quicker we rise, the more we lean on grace instead of guilt. Each rise becomes a new act of trust in God’s mercy.
Repeatedly rising helps reduce the frequency of our falls—not because we become flawless, but because we become more aware and better protected. St. Don Bosco said, “God does not ask us for big things, but for small things done with great love and perseverance.” That’s the daily call in this stage: small, steady steps with a heart fixed on Christ.
A Daily Invitation to Rise
The Vox Divini Voyage calls every soul in the foundational level to build this rhythm: Fall. Rise. Reflect. Adjust. Move forward. Never delay your return. Never grow tired of beginning again. God is not tired of you.
The Psalmist declares, “The Lord upholds all who are falling and raises up all who are bowed down” (Ps 145:14). This is His promise to you. Rise as many times as you fall. Each rise is a response to grace and a step deeper into union with Him.
St. Peter reminds us, “The God of all grace… will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you” (1 Pt 5:10). Let this assurance carry you. Rise today—and rise again tomorrow—until rising becomes your new way of walking.
Vox Divini 