August 20, 2023 – Reflection
August 20, 2023 | Reflection by Fr. Adam
“Behold the lamb of God, behold him who takes away the sins of the world.”
When we are invited to look at Jesus in the Eucharist, we recognize that we are taking part in a drama, of total giving from God, and so must be in a posture of totally receiving grace from God. When we enter into this mystery, we are unequally yoked between us a mere human and the God of heaven and earth. One of the greatest desires God created in the human heart is the drive for friendship and communion with others. The greatest moments of our live are hang around moments of deep and abiding friendship, so too with God.
Part of our entering into this mysterious friendship with God, is called contemplation. Contemplation is not merely thinking about God, but it starts with the truth about God. St. Bernard calls contemplation “Elevation of mind resting on God.” So, contemplation begins with lifting our minds up to God, so that our hearts can follow in loving friendship of God. I cannot love what I don’t first know.
We can know many things about God, but they become part of a living relationship when they lead me to contemplation, that is a loving resting with God as the one I love. When invited to behold the Lord, it is meant to be loving contemplative gaze.
~Fr. Adam Laski