In the book of Genesis, we are told that we are made in the image and likeness of God. In the letter to the Philippians, we are instructed to imitate the humility of Jesus. In the letter to the Ephesians, we are instructed to be holy and to mature toward the fullness of holiness for which we were created, as modeled by Jesus. In the Gospel of John, we are reminded, simply, that God is Love.
Partial and Whole
Sometimes, when I am stuck, feeling limited, or realize that I am not perfect and do not know everything, somewhat jokingly, I remind myself, Oh yes! I am not God!” As a human, I am still limited. The lens of partiality and wholeness is one way of understanding the relationship between humanity and divinity, anthropology and theology. This pair of opposites—partial and whole—can also help us to understand transformation, the hard work of healing and wholeness. If I can get over the first hurdle of recognizing that I am not God, I can then get on to more honestly doing the work of being human.
Forces at Work in Prayer
When I teach courses on discernment, and especially when we address the work of “good spirits” and “bad spirits,” as they are understood in the Ignatian tradition, the question always arises about whether beings in the invisible realm are “real.” Angels, demons, ghosts, ancestors—they form a large melting pot of mystery for those of us on the fleshly side of the veil.
Topics:
Contemplative Practice
