If total withdrawal from this world in monastic contemplation of Christ keeps my soul white as snow, and any engagement with this darkened world leaves me stained with sooty ashes, how gray must I become to fulfill the Will of God?
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In this false dichotomy is timidity sown and the edge of the tool blunted. In fear of staining ourselves we often fail to immerse ourselves in the world around us. We fear the encroachment of sin which we believe is inevitable. Too often this keeps us aloof from those in need.
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Rather, mindful acceptance that the chains of slavery have been broken, that WE DO NOT HAVE TO SIN ANY LONGER, and a total fixation on the truth of Christ renews the spirit with every step. Sin is no longer inevitable. We do not slide hopelessly into temptation. It can be halted.
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The powerful truth is that we no longer have to sin. Every sin is a choice of disobedience. And we can choose obedience through discipline, preparation, and useful techniques. Learning deeper obedience is precisely the purpose. So engagement is not to be feared. Christ renews.
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Imagine a child learning to walk. They are safer never walking because they will never fall. But what parent wants their child to never walk? Instead, the parent guides with outstretched hands bracketing the child on each side. Calls the child forth. And heals any scrapes.
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We are like children learning to walk. There will be falls. There will be scrapes. But we are bracketed by outstretched arms waiting to guide and rescue our souls. We will be comforted and healed of scrapes and bruises. We need not fear the walk for we are loved and watched over.
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And so, engage without fear. Walk without fear. Run without fear. Be mindful, practice discipline, prepare in advance for temptations, learn techniques to draw out humility and dependence on the Lord. How much more effective is a Church visibly living and loving without fear?
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Yeah. Sounds like some flavor of Gnosticism.
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Yep. I used it as a contemplation exercise, prompted by
@DeclanFinnBooks
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