From Thomas a Kempis:
For a certain man by loving Me intimately learned divine truths and spoke wonders. He profited more by leaving all things than by studying subtle questions.
How much is available to me through simply loving God intimately? Really, truly everything?
I seem to believe otherwise if my actions and attitudes are a reflection of what I really believe.
I seem to believe that if I want to learn divine truths then I must primarily use my intellect and reasoning and self-effort. I seem to believe that if I want people and projects to "work out," then I must engage my own plans, schemes, and obsessive energy. I seem to believe that if I expect to have anything then I better learn how to hang on to things and "be productive" with those things.
Just how upside down is God's Kingdom anyway? I know what Jesus says: seek first the Kingdom (i.e. my relationship with the King) first and "all these things" will be added. But, that little voice inside whines, does this really work? Is there really more profit in leaving all things and loving God intimately than in "making things happen?" Won't I surely miss out? And how far does one carry this?
I do know that there are people who are constantly teetering on the edge of irresponsibility: not carrying their normal end of things and just expecting it all to work out. I suppose, in many ways, I can't really speak to their issues. For some reason I'm always teetering on the other side of the spectrum: carrying all things myself and wondering where God is in it all.
So, for me, I need the reminder that it really is all about one thing--just one thing--the pursuit of intimacy with God. He really does promise to be fully and thoroughly involved with every area of my life as I give myself to a simple love relationship with Him. I really will have the intuitive answers I need, not because I studied hard enough, but because God, as I draw near Him, provides wisdom, insight, and direction.
(Feel free to post comments on this devotional blog, on your own daily devotion, on anything relating to contemplation, lectio divina, loving God.)
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