Distraction. We have it constantly—more, I’d propose, than
any age past. In a world that seeks to entertain us, enthrall our senses,
capture our total attention and encapsulate our memories, this generation is
seeking that Still Small Voice that reaches in and rends hearts anew.
Let’s admit it…we all have been touched (and often wounded)
by this clamorous world we abide in. We’ve “been there, done that.” (Cue St.
Augustine’s “Late Have I loved Thee” … this is the cry of our generation.) What
is worse, so many do not know how to enter into the world of Silence—where the
heart and the intellect unite in the brilliance of intimate conversation with
the One Who truly KNOWS us—each, individually. This silent world is where we
are utterly laid bare, our entire being vulnerable—where our seeking, parched
selves are welcomed, embraced and fully lifted to the dignity, mission and love
we were created for. In an instant our inner reflection, like a mirror, shows
us simultaneously our very insignificance, and yet our utter unique and
invaluable worth. This silent world of prayer, HeartSpeak, contemplation—we prodigals
fear. For it is there that we meet Love, Incarnate—the Wounded Godman (Isaiah 53:5), the One Who has called to
us to be more than what we are by ourselves.
So we gladly remain distracted, all the while our hearts are
drawn by that patient gaze and that whispered longing. “Arise my love…” (Song of Songs 2:10-14)
Why do we struggle so against that Hound of Heaven? Why do
we think that uniting to Him, we will somehow lose ourselves, becoming that
cookie-cutter idol of pietism so often found in “lives of the saints”? Can it
be that, when choosing virtue, we can still maintain our own personalities—or must
we abandon ourselves to this white-washed image we often see manifest? The real
question should be, however, is are we brave enough to find out in a world that
is literally falling into chaos?
I write this, today, as I begin a movement on social media,
to try to engage my friends and followers to “put out into the deep” (Luke 5:4), take the plunge and begin a
genuine step towards contemplation. I label this movement “HeartSpeak”, as it
is just that…utilizing what we have—from art, to media, to spiritual reading—in
order to inspire the imagination and internal conversation that are the
stepping stones to true contemplation. All I ask of each of you, is to join
with me in prayerful contemplation each week. I will post a photo, video, quote
from spiritual reading or something else to help spark this journey towards authentic
“prayer of quiet”. These posts will be titled, “HeartSpeak”, so you will know
exactly my intention.
In contemplation, that quiet prayer, you think on these
beautiful things—you dive deep into the meanings, you place yourself through
your imagination, right in the midst of them. Like a child playing in an
imaginary world, you find your mind fully engaged in these beautiful thoughts,
images, sounds or words…and it is there, that you see HIM in your imagination.
It is there that, from these beautiful things, you can begin to speak to Jesus
as your mind depicts Him. He may not speak back to you, at first…He may, in your
mind just listen…or gaze. Do not force this prayer of the intellect,
imagination and heart. Just tell Him everything. Authentic Christian prayer is
never self-emptying—it is always fully engaged.
You needn’t stay in that thought for very long…no need to
force anything. Stay as long as you are able…it will sometimes be very easy to
stay for a very long time, others it will be short and concise. Speak as you
want to speak with HIM—no need for formality, awkwardness. He hears you on a
daily basis, speaking with your friends and family. Why change that for HIM?
So, for those interested in joining—no need to identify, or
post or really do anything but pray. IF, however, the Holy Spirit leads you to
share the fruits of your prayer—please feel free.
Below, today, is our very first HeartSpeak. Start the video at 1:48:18 and end the video at 1:49:52. Place yourself running to catch up with Jesus.
May God bless us
in our individual efforts towards uniting with Him!
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