
While I am in no position to give a reflection on the differences or main points even of each of these books, I wanted to share a little word on the purpose of the two books for those not familiar with them.
This book was written by Holy Father for lay people.
The premise is that ordinary life can lead to sanctity! It was a radical concept in his day which has become more familiar to us after Vatican II, but Francis believed strongly that no matter what area of society you came from or were currently in, you could become a Saint. In his book he speaks of how to go about turning you daily household chores, your duties as a courtier, and especially your state in life into ways of prayer and holiness. The book includes simple directions for meditation, how to structure your day, as well as the famous direction of intention (a way to keep God with you in each moment).
The premise is that ordinary life can lead to sanctity! It was a radical concept in his day which has become more familiar to us after Vatican II, but Francis believed strongly that no matter what area of society you came from or were currently in, you could become a Saint. In his book he speaks of how to go about turning you daily household chores, your duties as a courtier, and especially your state in life into ways of prayer and holiness. The book includes simple directions for meditation, how to structure your day, as well as the famous direction of intention (a way to keep God with you in each moment).
Treatise on the Love of God (click to access an online version of the book)
In his second work, Holy Father addresses the individual who has already begun the spiritual journey and wishes to go deeper. It speaks more of prayer and the relationship with God. how to conquer temptations and distractions, how to approach different levels of prayer, spiritual aridity, etc. Some say it is the Salesian form of St. Teresa of Avila's Interior Castle.