Searching

Returning to the Castle: Part 2

When we are seeking God within ourselves (where He is found more effectively and more profitably than in the creatures, to quote Saint Augustine, who, after having sought Him in many places, found Him within), it is a great help if God grants us this favor. (Teresa of Avila: Fourth Mansion: Chapter Three)

You called, you shouted, and you broke through my deafness. You flashed, you shone, and you dispelled my blindness.  (Augustine: Confessions)

Sometimes we become so distant from our Interior Life we miss God’s indwelling. Then we search for Him everywhere except within. Teresa notes the words of Saint Augustine who “plunged” into created things to find God but did not find Him there. But, he says, God broke through his deafness and dispelled his blindness.

Where are you looking for God? in church? through ministry? through reading or podcasts? through your accomplishments? in your spouse or children? I encourage you to meditate on Augustine’s words. They provide great insight into Christian spirituality, the Prayer of Recollection, and finding God.

Late have I loved you, O beauty ever ancient, ever new, late have I loved you! You were within me, but I was outside, and it was there that I searched for you. In my unloveliness I plunged into the lovely things which you created. You were with me, but I was not with you. Created things kept me from you; yet if they had not been in you they would not have been at all. You called, you shouted, and you broke through my deafness. You flashed, you shone, and you dispelled my blindness. You breathed your fragrance on me; I drew in breath and now I pant for you. I have tasted you, now I hunger and thirst for more. You touched me, and I burned for your peace.  (Saint Augustine – Confessions)

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Contact Information: teresaofavilaturns500@gmail.com

About Dave Small

Jesus Follower, Blogger, Public Speaker. Teresaofavilaturns500.wordpress.com

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Posted in 4th Mansions - Chapter 3