'The Monastery of a cloistered heart is the person's own life. A monastery is a place consecrated to God, a place of prayer, a place where God is loved and served. Our lives can be all of these things. Just as any building can become a monastery by being dedicated to God, so our lives can become 'monasteries' by such dedication.'
'Even now we are called to be a dwelling for the Most Holy Trinity. 'If a man loves Me,' says the Lord, 'he will keep My word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our home with him.' (John 14:23)' (Catechism of the Catholic Church #260)
Looking at the bottom picture:
ReplyDeleteI consider that all creation serves God, and that all created things are to help man know, love, and serve God.
I hope I might say in that seat, "help me to know, love, and serve God".
Thank you for sharing what you might say. It's a great question to ponder: "what would I say if I were sitting in that seat?" Hmmm....
DeleteOne thing I know for sure I would say is "Thank you Lord for Nancy Shuman's wonderful, amazing and loving gift of her writing and blogs!" I love your definition of our indwelling monasteries! Good to be back friend!! Have been out of the country, etc...Missed your heart's monastery, your beautiful paintings and words of deep beauty, insight, wisdom, and love for our Lord God. God Bless...
ReplyDeleteI am SO glad to hear from you - I've missed you! Thank you for always being such an encouragement.
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