What did Jesus come to do for us? He came to set us free from the worst tyranny possible -- slavery to sin and the fear of death, and the eternal destruction of both body and soul. God's power alone can save us from emptiness and poverty of spirit, from confusion and error, and from  hopelessness and the fear of annihilation. The gospel of salvation is "good news" for us today. Do you know the joy and freedom of the gospel?

"Lord Jesus, you are the fulfillment of all our hopes and dreams.  Through the gift of your Holy Spirit you bring us truth, freedom, and abundant life. Fill me with the joy of the gospel and and inflame my heart with love and zeal for you and your will".

Stages of Growth in Christian Prayer, by Philip St. Romain

Transition From Active Prayer to Infused Contemplation (part one)

As already noted, one begins the spiritual journey by practicing active forms of prayer, and contemplative prayer eventually  emerges spontaneously.  In describing this transition from active to contemplative prayer, St. John of the Cross gives three signs to validate this experience.  These signs are paraphrased below:

1. One no longer seems to gain any sense of closeness to God through the practice of active prayer.

2. One is not sick nor lukewarm in faith nor in sin but is still drawn to spirituality and desirous of spiritual growth.

3. One enjoys being in God's presence in general loving awareness, without any particular discursive knowledge or awareness.