We are kept from the experience of Spirit because our inner world is cluttered with past traumas . . . As we begin to clear away this clutter, the energy of divine light and love begins to flow through our being.
Thomas KeatingRead
Redemption basically is about holistic health, if you want to translate it into modern parlance. What I suggest - based on the Christian tradition but not often preached - is that you can't enter into the fullness of the Pascal mystery of the redemption unless there is a radical transformation of motivation within you.
Interpretation
Redemption requires a profound change in one's motivations and understanding of holistic health.
In this quote, Thomas Keating emphasizes that true redemption is not merely a spiritual or religious concept but encompasses a holistic understanding of health. He suggests that to fully grasp the Christian concept of redemption, individuals must undergo a significant internal transformation that alters their motivations and approach to life, leading to a deeper connection with the essence of existence and spiritual truths.
In practice
During a workshop on personal growth, I quoted Keating to emphasize the importance of internal change in achieving holistic well-being.
We are kept from the experience of Spirit because our inner world is cluttered with past traumas . . . As we begin to clear away this clutter, the energy of divine light and love begins to flow through our being.
The acceptance of all that God has given us and the willingness to let it go - to give it back to him at a moment's notice - that's true human freedom.
We rarely think of the air we breathe, yet it is in us and around us all the time. In similar fashion, the presence of God penetrates us, is all around us, is always embracing us.
Only when we can accept God as he is can we give up the desire for spiritual experiences that we can feel.
For human beings, the most daunting challenge is to become fully human. For to become fully human is to become fully divine.
To become who we are as creatures made in the image and likeness of God, we have to be nothing and everything at once, since this is what God is. ... If we accept who we are, we are manifesting God and radiating Christ. The latter unfolding of the divine life within us does not need to go anywhere _x000D_ or do anything special.
Sweep up the debris of decaying faith; _x000D_ Sweep down the cobwebs of worn-out out beliefs, _x000D_ And throw your soul wide open to the light of reason and of knowledge. _x000D_ Be not afraid _x000D_ To thrust aside half-truths and grasp the whole.
In a futile attempt to erase our past, we deprive the community of our healing gift. If we conceal our wounds out of fear and shame, our inner darkness can neither be illuminated nor become a light for others.
No matter what happens, it is within my power to turn it to my advantage.
Don't tell me what you believe in. I'll observe how you behave and I will make my own determination.
Passed years seem safe ones, vanquished ones, while the future lives in a cloud, formidable from a distance. The cloud clears as you enter it. I have learned this, but like everyone, I learned it late.
I will never say something I don't agree with or believe in... even if the reward is massive!
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