"I had this idea that prayer, holiness, and the spiritual life were for the religious vocation and hidden behind high, thick brick walls. I longed to find a crack in that wall so I could have just a tiny taste of the spiritual life I once knew. Then the Holy Spirit brought the Cloistered Heart to me. The Cloistered Heart allowed me to squeeze through a tiny crack in that big brick wall. I long for the fullness of all of God's promises for those who love Him to the heights. And if that sounds presumptive, then so be it, because I know that it is meant for us all. Not just the Religious or the saints, but for all......"(from a letter by our friend Rose)
"Some people might think it contradictory to speak of 'contemplative' in the same sentence as 'mother of a very large family.' But it is the contemplative spirit that has helped me survive the chaos that is natural when raising a number of children.... The cloister in my heart is a place of refuge. It is a place where I can retreat from the world no matter where I am; in the middle of a crowded mall, or in a busy grocery store, or in my own kitchen." (Rose)
Painting: Gustav Wentzel Frokost, in US public domain due to age
I have found such refuge in my cloistered heart, being in the presence of our Holy Majestic God, who comes to me as Friend. It is amazing grace. I am so grateful that He has allowed me to share His presence...when I begin my day, when I call on Him throughout the day as I face the challenges before me. Words cannot express how precious this is. Your blog brings words of encouragement, beautiful art, and the knowledge that others share this gift as well. May God bless your efforts in reaching out to those of us who long to be with Him in the stillness of our hearts.
ReplyDeleteChristine
Christine, "the knowledge that others share this as well" is a real gift, and I thank you so much for letting us know you're here!
DeleteYours is the first email I open every day...thank you for sharing as you do!
DeleteChristine
Thank you for telling me this!
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