The Contemplative Companion for Wednesday, June 7, 2017

Your ways, O LORD, make known to me;
teach me your paths,
Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my savior.
Remember that your compassion, O LORD,
and your kindness are from of old.
In your kindness remember me,
because of your goodness, O LORD. – Psalm 25.3-5

If one word could convey the essence of the six words used in this Psalm (ways, know, paths, guide, truth and teach) , perhaps it is the word understanding. Understanding is the sum of our knowledge, being and listening to the Spirit of God.

It’s not too much to say that our lives are shaped to a large extent by our level or depth of understanding. When we don’t have understanding we feel adrift, confused, unclear. When Jesus invites us to seek first the kingdom of God, it is an invitation to seek and ask for more understanding amidst the confusion and aimlessness of much of our corporate human life experience on earth.

Please notice how specific Influences come from beyond our understanding – from the Lord – who teaches, guides, makes know. These special Influences are infused into the sacred scriptures and infused into the living tradition, handed on teacher to student, and most of all available to all who ask, seek and knock from the generous heart of Abba, who loves to share the Spirit of Understanding, Counsel and Teaching with us as an expression of conscious love for our current present existence and possible future evolution.

Also keep in mind, that our knowledge only goes so far. Our being has its edge. We are rescued again and again by the Spirit of God, who gently and fiercely reveals more to us in scripture, experience, nature and the diverse wisdom tradition(s). Our growth is always preceded by grace.

And lastly, when we can’t or don’t remember God. God remembers us.

These insights keep us grounded in humility and grace. Both of which are very safe places to be, especially for those who wish to grow ever deeper into the Mystical Body of Christ.