|
|
Prayer should never be
regarded as a science or reduced to a system-that ruins it, because it is essentially a living and personal relationship, which tends to become more personal and also more simple, as one goes on.
[Evelyn Underhill {1875-1941}, "Letters"]
("Living and personal relationship" . . . let this understanding direct your prayer this
day.)
|
|
ACTS
14:19-28; PS 145:10-13, 21; JN 14:27-31
R. Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD,
and let your faithful ones bless you.
Let them discourse of the glory of your kingdom
and speak of your might.
Making known to men your might
and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
Your kingdom is a kingdom for all ages,
and your dominion endures through all generations.
May my mouth speak the praise of the LORD,
and may all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.
USCCB Lectionary
|
Reflection on the Scriptures |
The concept of "peace" is certainly one that we all embrace. While peace in general is, indeed, an aspiration for all involved, I took his gift of peace to be that inner peace - serenity - that so many of us strive to achieve. "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you." It is a great reminder to me that
my true peace will not come from worldly possessions or accomplishments. I have to sometimes be explicit with myself when I allow my outlook and attitude to be influenced by those worldly things.
As I read this gospel over a few times what kept coming to mind were situations where I had to make choices between inner peace and some external reward. I remembered a time while I was
in the Army Reserves of trying to explain to a superior that I wanted to step down from a position that was held in high regard to instead teach enlisted students. I recall his frustration when he asked what my goals were and I replied peace and serenity. He would say, no, no, I mean what are your goals. I'm sure he expected me to say some lofty power position or high rank. However, at that time I was exhausted from trying to fulfill both my teaching responsibilities
with these soldiers (on a volunteer basis) and the demands of the other position. One night I felt completely overwhelmed to the point of tears and cried myself to sleep. When I awoke in the morning it was like a voice said to me, it doesn't have to be this way. I knew in my heart and soul that I needed to do what brought me peace and closer to God not keep twirling on this crazy merry-go-round. It was clear that my superior thought I was ill-advised to walk away
from this great opportunity which no doubt would have afforded me one more promotion before I retired. I had to closely examine my motivation behind taking that position - it was probably related more to ego and earthly gains than to benefits that would lead me closer to my Savior.
- by Nancy Shirley
Creighton Online Ministries
|
|
Selected Quotes from St. John of the Cross on the Journey of the Soul to God by Contemplation - from Living Flame of
Love
Second Redaction
Stanza IV. #82. #2. God is awakened in the soul. God breathes in the soul.
#6. Wisdom is more active than all active things.
#15. Oh, how happy is this soul that is ever conscious of God resting and reposing within its breast!
- compiled by James and Tyra Arraj Paperback edition: Kindle edition available
|
|
|
