Drawing closer to God

As we continue to draw closer to God, we do so each time on a deeper level. We give more and more of our heart, we go deeper and deeper. That is the second chance, the continual chance to say yes, right where we are.  My own experience has been that transformation and spiritual growth come more quickly when prompted by tragedy, crisis, pain, and difficult experiences. Ego, blindness, and fear would keep me stuck until, like the younger son in the Prodigal Son parable, a crisis emerged. Then I realize I have entered what I call the growing season. God is up to some good on my behalf, and my job is to stay the course. 

For me, it is not so much about getting it right, as it is about surrendering to God’s grace and allowing God to bring me through. Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, a Jesuit priest and philosopher says, “Give Our Lord the benefit of believing that his hand is leading you and accept the anxiety of feeling yourself in suspense and incomplete.” Above all, trust in the slow work of God.

Henri Nouwen says, “The story of the prodigal son is the story of a God who goes searching for us who doesn’t rest until he has found us. He urges and he pleads. He begs us to stop clinging to the powers of death and to ourselves be embraced by arms that will carry us to the place where we will find the life we most desire.”

We are image bearers, of a relentingly compassionate God, the God of eternal chances. Our task with God’s help is to reflect his mercy, love, and compassion.