My best friend of thirty-five years buried her father last week. My Aunt Marion (of whom I am extremely fond) is dying of lymphoma and old age (she's 96). I have conjunctivitis. My yard needs a major Spring clean up before we host a retirement party for my husband. Some of my students are struggling more than usual with academic demands. My son just left for Japan.
Yesterday I needed a word from the Lord and turned to one of my favorite spiritual directors, Henri Nouwen.
Nouwen writes that we are not to move away from these things that cause distress. Jesus , Nouwen explains, "asks us to shift the point of gravity, to relocate the center of our attention, to change our priorities. Jesus wants us to move away from the 'many things' to the 'one necessary thing.' It is important to us, Nouwen continues, to realize that Jesus in no way wants us to leave our many-faceted world. Rather, he wants us to live in it, but firmly rooted in the center of all things. Jesus does not speak about a change of activities, a change in contacts, or even a change of pace. He speaks about a change of heart. This change of heart makes everything different, even while everything appears to remain the same. This is the meaning of 'Set our hearts on his kingdom first . . . and all these other things will be given you as well.' What counts is where our hearts are." (Nouwen in Making All Things New)
Seek ye first the kingdom of God . . . Relocating the center of my attention
How are you focusing your attention on the Kingdom? What scripture verse, Holy Spirit inspiration, reading or studying has been helpful to you?
When speaking about "relocating the center of our attention" on the Kingdom, I have come to understand that God is "happening" in every area of my life. Sure, there is a cognitive aspect here. However, to realize this from the heart is what makes all the difference. Our lives keep moving, sometimes at pace that is faster than others. We are busy with children (and for some grandchildren). I understand what Nouwen means when he says, "we are not to move away from things that cause us distress." I want to respond in a way that draws me closer to God. The way for me to do this is to see Him active in every aspect of my life, good, not so good and in the sad moments. I guess this is seeking first the kingdom of God. Another way I focus my attention on the Kingdom is to ask the Lord for a sacred word to hold on to for the day,or even the week. This has been a time where I can constantly commune with God...throughout my day and into the evening. Wonderful insights Donna, thank you.
ReplyDeleteLaura,
ReplyDeleteI appreciate the idea of asking the Lord for a sacred word to hold onto for a day or a week. I think that would help me with holiness! Thanks for the input.
donna
The sacred word I am holding onto as I look at my crucifix is "sacrifice."
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