Fr. Joel Thompson, SJ writes on lust and chastity

Fr. Joel Thompson, SJ, wrote an article for the Diocese of Georgetown discussing the distinction between sexual desire and the sin of lust. In the piece, which is part of a series on the seven deadly sins and healing virtues, Thompson explains that sexual attraction and the longing for intimacy are natural human gifts from God that require guidance through love and wisdom.

Thompson notes that lust occurs when sexual desire becomes selfish or focused solely on pleasure. He describes lust as a disordered desire for or inordinate enjoyment of sexual pleasure. He clarifies that sexual pleasure is considered morally disordered when it is sought apart from the loving union of marriage and the openness to new life.

The article distinguishes between experiencing unwanted thoughts or noticing an attractive person and the act of choosing to lust. Thompson states that temptation is not the same as consent, and lust becomes a personal sin when a person freely entertains or acts upon those desires.