Then Brother Giles said to a certain friar, "Father, I would fain know what is contemplation?" And the friar answered: "Father, truly I know not." Then Brother Giles said: "To me it seems that contemplation is a divine fire, a sweet devotion infused by the Holy Ghost, a rapture and suspension of the mind inebriated by the unspeakable savour of divine sweetness, and a sweet and tranquil enjoyment of the soul which is rapt and suspended in loving admiration of the glories of heaven, and an inward burning consciousness of that celestial and unspeakable glory."
Saint Francis of Assisi
LITTLE FLOWERS OF ST. FRANCIS
Chapter XI
Saint Francis of Assisi
LITTLE FLOWERS OF ST. FRANCIS
Chapter XI
T
Br. Giles has a talent for describing the indescribable.
ReplyDeleteFra Chris, up early this morning! When people think religion - they think of institutions. When they think of spiritual they think . . . 'that other thing besides what is relevant, real and important in life'. Jesus, for 33 years, lived a quiet life of family, work and prayer (the active life). The Baptist lived a similar life: prayer, solitude, labor and poverty (the religious life). Our primary relationship is (should be!)with God - wherever, whatever, however, with whomever and always. St. Paul said to 'pray without ceasing' - this doesn't mean 'don't stop talking'! Prayer is BEING with God - being aware of Him, consciously in His presence and in tune with His heart and mind. 'Walking in the Spirit' means living with a heart open to God's wisdom and love. To know God is to love Him and in Him are the secrets of eternal heavenly delights! Peace and blessings to all.
ReplyDeleteThank you for you comment, Elizabeth.
ReplyDeleteBrother Giles makes your heart ache to the point of death to share in being one with Christ as Lover and Beloved.
Dear Brother Joseph, it is truly sad that, as you say, people view religion as an institution and it is up to us to point the true way of Christ which is oneness in being with the Almighty through the gift of His Holy Spirit! It's the difference between studying scripture and living the Gospel.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your wonderful insight!