The contemplative must have the courage to face the Word's sharp sword and fiery appearance. Initially there seems to be a repetition of the Old Testament truth that no one can see God and live. To really see the Word of God in contemplation just as he is, undisguised and unveiled, without being shielded by sin and habit, must throw us to the ground "as though dead."

For it is in the mirror of God's word that man sees who he is. Our "real" reality is not the inner, higher or deeper "I" into which we withdraw from the world's bedlam, as if we could reinforce the word of God within us with the strength of our "better self." The reverse is the case. All the strength of our "better self" comes from God's power, which her proffers to us in his word.

Unavoidabley, the life of contemplation is an everyday life, a life of fidelity in small matters, small services rendered in the spirit and warmth of love which lightens every burden.

Last Updated: October 7, 1996