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There is a Light which makes Christianity shine more brightly. One which brings out the sparkle in that which may seem dull
and faded. The process of dusting off the old in order to bring out the new, the renewed and the brighter Light is the essence
of our spiritual journey.
Guidance and encouragement along this path permeate not only the Bible and liturgical worship
but are also to be found in Christian symbolism and in many concepts of theology.
Unfortunately, we devote far
too little attention to seeking an understanding of these, sometimes subtle, guides of the spiritual way. Although they can,
of course, continue to assist us on our path, even if we do not understand them. Once we do glean an insight into them, however,
they open us far more to the sublime beauty of the spiritual life and offer us tremendous encouragement on our journey.
There is also another very important reason for seeking out this understanding. If we do not understand something it has
very little, if any, meaning to us intellectually, although this naturally does not affect its inherent spiritual value. But
if something is perceived as having no meaning it can also be perceived as having little value. It is a short step beyond
this to discarding it. Sadly, the process of discarding some very important spiritual traditions seems to have been on the
increase in the Church for some time. As a result of this many have come to sense that there is an innate spiritual quality
and power which the Church is lacking. They sometimes conclude that Christianitys days are numbered or that a bold new way
forward must be found for its survival.
However, the spiritual wisdom, gnosis and laws which inform Christianity
and, indeed, other traditions, are immutable; they are not subject to change through variations in time or space. They serve
to give sustenance and validity to the outer forms of religious and spiritual practices. Therefore, for any outer form of
religious expression to truly serve its purpose it must be informed by the inner.
An effort needs to be made to
preserve the inner teachings to a greater extent and perhaps the best contribution that we can make is by exploring and discovering
the inner and spiritual substance for ourselves. Then, not only will we be able to pass this on to others but we will have
encountered a Greater Light which can guide our own lives.
We speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden
wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto out glory. (1 Cor. 2:7)
But let it be the hidden man of the heart,
in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
(1Peter 3:4)
That it might be fulfilled which was spoken of by the prophets, saying I will open my mouth in parables;
I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world. (Matt. 13 35)
Copyright: Janet
Gentles 2001
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