Weekly Reflection: Meeting the Contemplative Life

“We seek distraction from the terrible longing the soul feels for the connection with the mystery of being here.” 

–James Hollis

We all have a deep intuition of life’s connections, the relationality of things—even if obscured.  This intuition is made explicit in our desire for intimacy and wholeness.  We want to connect, belong and feel that our life makes sense, whether through intimate relationships and friendships, meaningful work, a spiritual journey, academic pursuits or moments of pleasure. No matter the path, we all long to meet, really meet in depth. This desire is good.  Failing to meet and make connections can bring isolation and estrangement, and feel heavy—no matter what distraction we may seek. Our context today makes meeting with depth challenging though not impossible.  Hence, many Christians are finding a renewed interest in the contemplative life, and are seeking a more compelling way to live their faith. They seek a way to connect and move away from the distraction, drawn by the invitation of Christ, “I have come that you may have life and have it to the full.”  They aren’t interested in being right, pious, set apart, or in having some religious experience. They want to meet, to move through life with awe and wonder, greater love, and move more deeply into the profound mystery of being here.

- Gary Maccaroni, CALLED Curriculum Team