Did you know what characterizes this? Yes the typical evangelical mindset (at least true for me) - the Word of God. I am not ashamed of my spiritual upbringing as an evangelical, but I'm getting more dissatisfied lately. Something in me just doesn't feel right or contended, and I have a sense of inadequacy when it comes to knowing, experiencing and relating to God. Is being a good Christian just about reading His Word? Or even faithfully proclaiming and sharing the good news with others? Is that it about being a Christ follower?
In my recent study, reading and reflection on spirituality (it's part of my post-graduate course), I have come to a particular appreciation of what the Charismatic and the Contemplative had and can offer us today. There are certainly perils and pitfalls within any of these traditions (so are we of the evangelical). Of those I've studied in a little more depth, I feel drawn to the Contemplative in particular. Indeed, the Contemplative is very appealing to people with N and F (N= iNtuition, F=Feeling; from the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) in their temperament. I understand why I'm drawn because I myself am an INFJ!
The Contemplative stresses inner spiritual depth, and it talks about love and fire for God which is very much needed for busy ministers and lay people alike.
The way to it? Well ..... silence, solitude, meditation, prayer and even fasting are some of the most effective disciplines (references: Dallas Willard and Richard Foster) that the Contemplative usually resorts to for spiritual growth.
Are you aware of a spirituality tradition you've come from or are currently with?
No comments:
Post a Comment