|
The second reason I refer to Molinos is the emphasis on self-abnegation. Molinos refers to Christians of many years and of avid external religiousness who are still "full of themselves." He speaks of persons going within - "the inward parts of their spirits" - to "relinquish everything about themselves" to God. These persons "have forgotten and despoiled themselves" of all things. Even more, they have despoiled themselves of themselves.
* * *
The fundamental aspect of Christian Prayer is loving surrender of all things, and oneself. Yet, does this mean a person is left without a self, or is a mere shell of a creature?
20 I was put to death on the cross with Christ, and I do not live anymore - it is Christ who lives in me. I still live in my body, but I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself to save me.
*Galatians 2.20 (NCV)
23 I will be in them and you will be in me so that they will be completely one. Then the world will know that you sent me and that you loved them just as much as you loved me.
*John 17.23 (NCV)
There is a paradox at the heart of true Prayer. This paradox is that in losing our separation, a division existing in our False Self - ego consciousness - we become experientially one with Christ. We rise a Christic person. This is the mystery of spiritual baptism, of which water baptism is an inward sign. Then, as a Christic person, we become one with others of like Be-ing, also.
* * *
A second aspect, after humbleness, in true Prayer is sobriety. This means wakefulness of heart-mind. Being spiritually awake is often associated with Buddhist teaching; yet, such is key in the Christian tradition, also.
37 Then Jesus went back to his followers and found them asleep. He said to Peter, "Simon, are you sleeping? Couldn't you stay awake with me for one hour? 38 Stay awake and pray for strength against temptation. The spirit wants to do what is right, but the body is weak."
*Mark 14.37-38 (NCV)
Continued... |
