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Wisdom Story
A man thinking himself spiritual visited the Master.
The man spoke, "Sir, why do you remain in religion?"
"Why would you ask the question?" replied the Master.
"For you are a deeply spiritual sage, and such deeply spiritual persons as you and me do not need religion."
The Master asked, "And what are those persons who need religion?"
"They are immature, sir."
The Master spoke, "I am thirsty. Are you?"
"Yes," replied the man.
"Then, go get us some water."
The man went and got two glasses of water. He returned...
The Master spoke, "Let us drink."
They began drinking.
"Why are you using the glass to drink, friend?" asked the Master.
The man said, "Well, how else could I drink the water?"
"Well," laughed the Master, "you are immature. After all, water being water, why would you, so proficient at drinking water, need a glass."
*Story by Brian K. Wilcox
Comments
Writes Abbot Christopher Jamison, in Finding Sanctuary...
The movement to separate spirituality and religion has had a number of effects beyond simply creating the distinction. One of the most significant effects has been the emergence of a belief in western society that the institutional part of religion is optional ~ that real spirituality is a wholly private event and that this inward part is more or less the same across all religions and all people.
To agree that we can dispense with organized religion and enjoy a deep, mature spirituality is to call the greatest of spiritual men and women in history, in all cultures and epochs, liars.
I choose to agree with those of the past who lived through religion to experience Spirit, not the many who know little if anything of Spirit but dispense of religion and speak of some spirituality: and what that "some spirituality" is... Well, who knows?
Suggested Reflection
How does nature evidence Spirit uses form to draw us into intimacy with Spirit?
Do you agree, or not, that religion is essential for a mature spirituality? Explain your answer.
*Brian K. Wilcox is a United Methodist Pastor, writer, and workshop leader in Florida. He seeks to enrich the Christian Church through his work, as well as facilitate healing of person, society, and our world through wisdom teaching in the Christian path and other paths of spirituality.
He can be reached at brian7777@earthlink.net .
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