Jessica asked me a question on the introduction that I was not able to explain clearly enough to satisfy her mind. So please, if anyone can help me clarify the answer to the question , your help would be very much appreciated.
On pg. 12 under Meditation, Jessie asked what the meaning of the following was: We can ascend to the Lord either by (a) contemplation of the created work, or (b) by meditation on the revealed truths contained in Scripture and on the life of Jesus, or finally (c) by attaching ourselves to Christ with a lively faith in His power to introduce us into the bosom of the Father.
After trying to explain it to her (and I failed horribly) I suggested that she just read a little and be quiet for a short time and listen to her heart and that eventually God would speak to her. I also suggested asking everyone here for help.
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You asked about the quote: "We can ascend to the Lord either by (a) contemplation of the created world, or (b) by meditation on the revealed truths contained in Scripture and on the life of Jesus, or finally (c) by attaching ourselves to Christ with a lively faith in His power to introduce us into the bosom of the Father."
Here is my take on this. I am sure others can probably explain it better but I will give it a try. This quote referred back to Jesus' statement "In My Father's house there are many mansions" (Jn 14:2) It reminds me that in the life of prayer and faith there are many stages. If we desire to grow in our life of faith we have to realize that it is usually done slowly. We will see progress, but over time, like a Marathon runner doesn't start with running 26 miles but will keep progressing in stages. It is like meeting someone on the street and being attracted to how the person looks, then you get to know him/her, then you get to love him/her.
The author is telling us in the quote you gave that their are three "points of departure" where the soul can start the process of growing in the life of prayer and that leads to heavenly union in the Father's house. The points of departure listed to get to know and love the Father are
1. We can ascend to the Lord a) by contemplation of the created world
2. We can ascent to the Lord b) by meditation on the revealed in Scripture and on the Life of Jesus
3. We can ascent to the Lord by attaching ourselves to Christ with a lively faith in His power to bring us to the Father.
I see each step as a more personal relationship with the Lord.
In the first step we see the beauty of nature, the softness of a new born, the complexity of our bodies and in them we recognize that God exists.
In the second step we meditate on the scriptures and life of Jesus looking at Him historically, recognizing the Lord's existence, what he did in the lives of those around him (healing, teaching, calling, etc.) and what he did for us.
In the third step we are in the arms of God, recognizing His card for us, His love for us, etc. and yearning, wanting to return that love. It is like two lovers just wanting to be with each other, wanting to spend time and making the time for each other. The attachment shows a union and just as we want to share ourselves with the Lord so He yearns to share eternity with us. Where we are now will be our point of departure...as of today.
May the Lord fill the gaps between what I shared and what it really means and may we all recognize that we are called to move beyond where we are to be where the Lord wants us to be.
Jessie: Thanks for the question.
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