PENTECOST 2015
Thomas Merton: Reflections
Pentecost: Ten days after Jesus ascended into heaven, the twelve apostles, Jesus' mother and family, and many other of His disciples gathered together in Jerusalem for the Jewish harvest festival that was celebrated on the fiftieth day after Passover. While they were indoors praying, a sound like that of a rushing wind filled the house and tongues of fire descended and rested over each of their heads. This was the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on human flesh promised by God through the prophet Joel (Joel 2:28-29).
Pentecost 2013 -- While they were indoors praying, a sound like that of a rushing wind filled the house and tongues of fire descended and rested over each of their heads
This will be my last post for Pentecost.
I have followed the writings of Thomas Merton for the past several months.
He is a true prophetic Christian voice for the 21st Century.
Thank You for being so attentive and dedicated to Merton's writings.
I have followed the writings of Thomas Merton for the past several months.
He is a true prophetic Christian voice for the 21st Century.
Thank You for being so attentive and dedicated to Merton's writings.
5-19 PENTECOST SUNDAY (Thomas Merton)
The good man comes from God and returns to Him. He starts with the gift of being and with the capacities God has given him. He reaches the age of reason and begins to make choices.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux). P 10
Thought for the Day: A man is known, then, by his end. He is also known by his beginning.
Thoughts in Solitude: 10
The good man comes from God and returns to Him. He starts with the gift of being and with the capacities God has given him. He reaches the age of reason and begins to make choices.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux). P 10
Thought for the Day: A man is known, then, by his end. He is also known by his beginning.
Thoughts in Solitude: 10
5-18 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Merton' Voice: If we are able to believe he is truly our loving Father, if we can really accept the truth in of infinite and compassionate concern for us, if we believe that he loves us not because we are worthy but because we need his love, then we can advance with confidence.
Life and Holiness: 31
Psalm 145: 9 The LORD is good to all, compassionate toward all your works
Merton' Voice: If we are able to believe he is truly our loving Father, if we can really accept the truth in of infinite and compassionate concern for us, if we believe that he loves us not because we are worthy but because we need his love, then we can advance with confidence.
Life and Holiness: 31
Psalm 145: 9 The LORD is good to all, compassionate toward all your works
5-17 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
It is not exaggeration to say that democratic society is founded on a kind of faith: on the conviction that each citizen is capable of, and assumes, complete political responsibility.
Thomas Merton, Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander (New York: Image) p 100
Thought for the Day: We have taken for granted that we could be "bystanders" and that our quality as detached observers could preserve our innocence and relieve us of responsibility.
Thomas Merton, Raids on the Unspeakable (New York: New Directions)54
It is not exaggeration to say that democratic society is founded on a kind of faith: on the conviction that each citizen is capable of, and assumes, complete political responsibility.
Thomas Merton, Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander (New York: Image) p 100
Thought for the Day: We have taken for granted that we could be "bystanders" and that our quality as detached observers could preserve our innocence and relieve us of responsibility.
Thomas Merton, Raids on the Unspeakable (New York: New Directions)54
5-16 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Merton's Voice: If we have not silence, God is not heard in our music. If we have no rest God does not bless our work.
No Man Is An Island: 127
Psalm: 24:5 He will receive blessings from the LORD, and justice from his saving God
Merton's Voice: If we have not silence, God is not heard in our music. If we have no rest God does not bless our work.
No Man Is An Island: 127
Psalm: 24:5 He will receive blessings from the LORD, and justice from his saving God
5-14 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
And the deepest level of communication is not communication, but communion. It is wordless. It is beyond words, and it is beyond speech, and it is beyond concept. Not that we discover a new unity. We discover an older unity. My dear brothers, we are already one. But we imagine that we are not. And what we have to recover is our original unity. What we have to be is what we are.
Asian Journal of Thomas Merton, ed. Naomi Burton, Brother Patrick Hart, and James Laughlin (New York: New Directions, 1973) 308
Thought for the Day: Our real journey in life is interior: it is matter of growth, deepening, and of an ever greater surrender to the creative action of love and grace in our hearts.
Asian Journal of Thomas Merton: 296
And the deepest level of communication is not communication, but communion. It is wordless. It is beyond words, and it is beyond speech, and it is beyond concept. Not that we discover a new unity. We discover an older unity. My dear brothers, we are already one. But we imagine that we are not. And what we have to recover is our original unity. What we have to be is what we are.
Asian Journal of Thomas Merton, ed. Naomi Burton, Brother Patrick Hart, and James Laughlin (New York: New Directions, 1973) 308
Thought for the Day: Our real journey in life is interior: it is matter of growth, deepening, and of an ever greater surrender to the creative action of love and grace in our hearts.
Asian Journal of Thomas Merton: 296
5-14 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
It is faith and not imagination that gives us supernatural life, faith that justifies us, faith that leads us to contemplation.
Thomas Merton. New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books) P 154
Thought for the Day: Faith reaches the intellect not simply through the senses but in a light directly infused by God.
New Seeds of Contemplation: 132
It is faith and not imagination that gives us supernatural life, faith that justifies us, faith that leads us to contemplation.
Thomas Merton. New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books) P 154
Thought for the Day: Faith reaches the intellect not simply through the senses but in a light directly infused by God.
New Seeds of Contemplation: 132
5-13 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
The life of contemplation in action and purity of heart is, then, a life of great simplicity and inner liberty. One is not seeking anything special or demanding any particular satisfaction. One is content with what is.
Thomas Merton. The Inner Experience: Notes on Contemplation. William H. Shannon, editor (San Francisco: HarperSanFrancisco, 2003): 66.
Thought of the Day: One can swim with the living stream of life and remain at every moment in contact with God, in the hiddenness and ordinariness of the present moment with its obvious task.
The Inner Experience: Notes on Contemplation: 66.
The life of contemplation in action and purity of heart is, then, a life of great simplicity and inner liberty. One is not seeking anything special or demanding any particular satisfaction. One is content with what is.
Thomas Merton. The Inner Experience: Notes on Contemplation. William H. Shannon, editor (San Francisco: HarperSanFrancisco, 2003): 66.
Thought of the Day: One can swim with the living stream of life and remain at every moment in contact with God, in the hiddenness and ordinariness of the present moment with its obvious task.
The Inner Experience: Notes on Contemplation: 66.
5-12 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Actions are the doors and windows of being. Unless we act we have no way of knowing what we are. And the experience of our existence is impossible without some experience of knowing or some experience of experience.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux). P 121
Thought for the Day: We find God in our own being which is the mirror of God.
Thoughts in Solitude: 121
Actions are the doors and windows of being. Unless we act we have no way of knowing what we are. And the experience of our existence is impossible without some experience of knowing or some experience of experience.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux). P 121
Thought for the Day: We find God in our own being which is the mirror of God.
Thoughts in Solitude: 121
5-11 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
In silence we face and admit the gap between the depth of our being, which we consistently ignore, and the surface which is untrue to our own reality. We recognize the need to be at home with ourselves in order that we may go out to meet others, not just with a mask of affability, but with real commitment and authentic love.
Thomas Merton. Love and Living. (New York: Harcourt) p 41
Thought for the Day: That is the reason for choosing silence.
Love and Living. 41
In silence we face and admit the gap between the depth of our being, which we consistently ignore, and the surface which is untrue to our own reality. We recognize the need to be at home with ourselves in order that we may go out to meet others, not just with a mask of affability, but with real commitment and authentic love.
Thomas Merton. Love and Living. (New York: Harcourt) p 41
Thought for the Day: That is the reason for choosing silence.
Love and Living. 41
5-10 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
The moment the first man sprang into being, moved by the breath of God, the depths of the center of his perfect soul blazed with the silent, magnificent flame of Wisdom.
The New Man, (New York: Farrar, Straus, Giroux) 1961: 53-54
Thought for the Day: All things were beautiful and good, but only when they were seen and loved in Him
The New Man: 55
Contemplative Pause: Throughout this week, pause, take a breath, and listen with your heart. What in your life is beautiful and good?
The moment the first man sprang into being, moved by the breath of God, the depths of the center of his perfect soul blazed with the silent, magnificent flame of Wisdom.
The New Man, (New York: Farrar, Straus, Giroux) 1961: 53-54
Thought for the Day: All things were beautiful and good, but only when they were seen and loved in Him
The New Man: 55
Contemplative Pause: Throughout this week, pause, take a breath, and listen with your heart. What in your life is beautiful and good?
5-9 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
I will never be able to find myself if I isolate myself from the rest of mankind as if I were a different kind of being.
Thomas Merton. New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books) P 51
Thought for the Day: I must look for my identity, somehow, not only in God but in other men.
New Seeds of Contemplation: 51
I will never be able to find myself if I isolate myself from the rest of mankind as if I were a different kind of being.
Thomas Merton. New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books) P 51
Thought for the Day: I must look for my identity, somehow, not only in God but in other men.
New Seeds of Contemplation: 51
5-8 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Love affects more than our thinking and our behavior toward those we love. It transforms our entire life. Genuine love is a personal revolution. Love takes your ideas, your desires, and your actions and welds them together in one experience and one living reality which is a new you.
Thomas Merton. Love and Living. (New York: Harcourt) p 28
Thought for the Day: We will never be fully real until we let ourselves fall in love - either with another human person or with God.
Love and Living. 27
Love affects more than our thinking and our behavior toward those we love. It transforms our entire life. Genuine love is a personal revolution. Love takes your ideas, your desires, and your actions and welds them together in one experience and one living reality which is a new you.
Thomas Merton. Love and Living. (New York: Harcourt) p 28
Thought for the Day: We will never be fully real until we let ourselves fall in love - either with another human person or with God.
Love and Living. 27
5-7 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
The Lord travels in all directions.
The Lord arrives from all directions at once.
Wherever we are, we find that He has just departed.
No Man Is An Island (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 239
Thought for the Day: Wherever we go, we discover that He has just arrived before us.
No Man Is An Island: 239
The Lord travels in all directions.
The Lord arrives from all directions at once.
Wherever we are, we find that He has just departed.
No Man Is An Island (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 239
Thought for the Day: Wherever we go, we discover that He has just arrived before us.
No Man Is An Island: 239
5-6 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
When God breathed into the face of Adam, everything in man came alive: not only his body, not only his mind, but also his spirit in which the image of God was hidden. And the image of God was alive with likeness to God, that is to say with contemplation.
The New Man, (New York: Farrar, Straus, Giroux) 1961:71
Thought for the Day: The "image" of God is found in the soul's structure - awareness, thought, love.
The New Man: 61
When God breathed into the face of Adam, everything in man came alive: not only his body, not only his mind, but also his spirit in which the image of God was hidden. And the image of God was alive with likeness to God, that is to say with contemplation.
The New Man, (New York: Farrar, Straus, Giroux) 1961:71
Thought for the Day: The "image" of God is found in the soul's structure - awareness, thought, love.
The New Man: 61
5-5 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
We do not detach ourselves from things in order to attach ourselves to God, but rather we become detached from ourselves in order to see and use all things in and for God.
Thomas Merton. New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books) P 21
Thought for the Day: Detachment from things does not mean setting up a contradiction between "things" and "God" as if God were another "thing" and as if His creatures were His rivals.
New Seeds of Contemplation: 21
We do not detach ourselves from things in order to attach ourselves to God, but rather we become detached from ourselves in order to see and use all things in and for God.
Thomas Merton. New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books) P 21
Thought for the Day: Detachment from things does not mean setting up a contradiction between "things" and "God" as if God were another "thing" and as if His creatures were His rivals.
New Seeds of Contemplation: 21
5-4 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
If we re prepared to go forward, to lose ourselves, there is no need for discouragement. The remedy - hope.
Thomas Merton, Contemplative Prayer (New York: Image Books): 40
Judith 13:19 Your deed of hope will never be forgotten by those who recall the might of God
If we re prepared to go forward, to lose ourselves, there is no need for discouragement. The remedy - hope.
Thomas Merton, Contemplative Prayer (New York: Image Books): 40
Judith 13:19 Your deed of hope will never be forgotten by those who recall the might of God
The Book Of Judith
5-3 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Those who love their own noise are impatient of everything else. ... Our noise, our business, our purposes, and all our fatuous statements about our purposes, our business, and our noise: these are the illusion.
Thomas Merton. No Man Is An Island (New York: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1955: 257
Thought for the Day: It is not speaking that breaks our silence, but the anxiety to be heard.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude (New York: Farrar Straus & Giroux, 1958): 91.
Those who love their own noise are impatient of everything else. ... Our noise, our business, our purposes, and all our fatuous statements about our purposes, our business, and our noise: these are the illusion.
Thomas Merton. No Man Is An Island (New York: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1955: 257
Thought for the Day: It is not speaking that breaks our silence, but the anxiety to be heard.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude (New York: Farrar Straus & Giroux, 1958): 91.
5-2 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
The real hope, then, is not in something we think we can do, but in God who is making something good out of it in some way we cannot see. If we can do His will, we will be helping in the process. But we will not necessarily know all about it beforehand.
The Hidden Ground of Love: The Letters of Thomas Merton on Religious Experience and Social Concerns, ed. William H. Shannon (New York: Farrar, Straus, & Girous, 1985) 297
Thought for the Day: The message of hope the contemplative offers you is that whether you understand or not, God loves you, is present in you, lives in you, dwells in you, calls you, saves you, and offers you an understanding and light which are like nothing ever found in books or heard in sermons.
The real hope, then, is not in something we think we can do, but in God who is making something good out of it in some way we cannot see. If we can do His will, we will be helping in the process. But we will not necessarily know all about it beforehand.
The Hidden Ground of Love: The Letters of Thomas Merton on Religious Experience and Social Concerns, ed. William H. Shannon (New York: Farrar, Straus, & Girous, 1985) 297
Thought for the Day: The message of hope the contemplative offers you is that whether you understand or not, God loves you, is present in you, lives in you, dwells in you, calls you, saves you, and offers you an understanding and light which are like nothing ever found in books or heard in sermons.
5-1 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Thank God then for all good smells and good sights and good sounds, but what is the good of being attached to them and sitting and turning over their memory and dwelling on the recollections they bring to you, cherishing a sadness for these things which are gone away?
The Intimate Merton, ed. Patrick Hart and Jonathan Montaldo, (New York: HarperCollins, 1999): 4-5
Thought of the Day: Gratitude shows reverence to God in the way it makes us of His gifts.
No Man Is An Island (New York: Harvest Book, 1983) p116
Thank God then for all good smells and good sights and good sounds, but what is the good of being attached to them and sitting and turning over their memory and dwelling on the recollections they bring to you, cherishing a sadness for these things which are gone away?
The Intimate Merton, ed. Patrick Hart and Jonathan Montaldo, (New York: HarperCollins, 1999): 4-5
Thought of the Day: Gratitude shows reverence to God in the way it makes us of His gifts.
No Man Is An Island (New York: Harvest Book, 1983) p116
4-30 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Creation had been given to man as a clean window through which the light of God could shine into man's souls. Sun and moon, night and day, rain, the sea, the crops, the flowering tree, all these things were transparent. They spoke to man not of themselves only but of Him who made them.
A Merton Reader (New York: Image Books, 1989): 395
Psalm 72:6-7 May he be like rain coming down upon the fields, like showers watering the earth that abundance may flourish in his days, great bounty, till the moon be no more.
Creation had been given to man as a clean window through which the light of God could shine into man's souls. Sun and moon, night and day, rain, the sea, the crops, the flowering tree, all these things were transparent. They spoke to man not of themselves only but of Him who made them.
A Merton Reader (New York: Image Books, 1989): 395
Psalm 72:6-7 May he be like rain coming down upon the fields, like showers watering the earth that abundance may flourish in his days, great bounty, till the moon be no more.
4-29 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
They are truths with which, for centuries, man has slowly and with difficulty built a civilized world in the effort to make happiness possible, not merely by making life materially better, but by helping men to understand and live their life more fruitfully.
Honorable Reader: Reflections on My Work, ed. Robert E. Daggy. (New York: Crossroads, 1985). 123-136
Thought for the Day: The key to this understanding is the truth that "No man is an island." A selfish life cannot be fruitful.
They are truths with which, for centuries, man has slowly and with difficulty built a civilized world in the effort to make happiness possible, not merely by making life materially better, but by helping men to understand and live their life more fruitfully.
Honorable Reader: Reflections on My Work, ed. Robert E. Daggy. (New York: Crossroads, 1985). 123-136
Thought for the Day: The key to this understanding is the truth that "No man is an island." A selfish life cannot be fruitful.
4-28 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
If we trust God to act in us, God will act in us. This is how our lives become prophetic. ...If we are completely open to the Holy Spirit, then the Spirit will be able to lead us where God wants us to go. Going along that line, our lives will be prophetic.
The Springs of Contemplation: A Retreat at the Abbey of Gethsemani (Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 1992): 64-65
Psalm 7:2 LORD my God, in you I trusted; save me; rescue me from all who pursue me
If we trust God to act in us, God will act in us. This is how our lives become prophetic. ...If we are completely open to the Holy Spirit, then the Spirit will be able to lead us where God wants us to go. Going along that line, our lives will be prophetic.
The Springs of Contemplation: A Retreat at the Abbey of Gethsemani (Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 1992): 64-65
Psalm 7:2 LORD my God, in you I trusted; save me; rescue me from all who pursue me
4-27 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Spiritual life is not mental life. It is not thought alone. Nor is it, of course, a life of sensation, a life of feeling - "feeling" and experiencing the things of the spirit, and the things of God.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux). P 15
Thought for the Day: Everything must be elevated and transformed by the action of God, in love and faith.
Thoughts in Solitude: 15
Spiritual life is not mental life. It is not thought alone. Nor is it, of course, a life of sensation, a life of feeling - "feeling" and experiencing the things of the spirit, and the things of God.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux). P 15
Thought for the Day: Everything must be elevated and transformed by the action of God, in love and faith.
Thoughts in Solitude: 15
4-26 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
If we can love the men we cannot trust (without trusting them foolishly) and if we can to some extent share the burden of their sin by identifying ourselves with them, then perhaps there is some hope of a kind of peace on earth, based not on the wisdom and manipulations of men but on the inscrutable mercy of God.
Thomas Merton. New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books): 119
Psalm 85:9 I will listen for what God, the LORD, has to say; surely he will speak of peace to his people and to his faithful
If we can love the men we cannot trust (without trusting them foolishly) and if we can to some extent share the burden of their sin by identifying ourselves with them, then perhaps there is some hope of a kind of peace on earth, based not on the wisdom and manipulations of men but on the inscrutable mercy of God.
Thomas Merton. New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books): 119
Psalm 85:9 I will listen for what God, the LORD, has to say; surely he will speak of peace to his people and to his faithful
4-25 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Mercy is the thing, the deepest thing that has been revealed to us by God. A mercy that cannot fail.
Thomas Merton In Alaska: The Alaska Conferences, Journals, and Letters, ed. Robert E. Daggy (New York: New Directions, 1989): 160
Psalm 89:1-2 I will sing of your mercy forever, LORD proclaim your faithfulness through all ages.
Mercy is the thing, the deepest thing that has been revealed to us by God. A mercy that cannot fail.
Thomas Merton In Alaska: The Alaska Conferences, Journals, and Letters, ed. Robert E. Daggy (New York: New Directions, 1989): 160
Psalm 89:1-2 I will sing of your mercy forever, LORD proclaim your faithfulness through all ages.
4-24 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom. ...The fear which is the first step to wisdom is the fear of being untrue to God and to ourselves. It is the fear that we have lied to ourselves, that we have thrown down our lives at the feet of a false god.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux): 73
Psalm 27:1-4 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The LORD is my life's refuge; of whom should I be afraid?
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom. ...The fear which is the first step to wisdom is the fear of being untrue to God and to ourselves. It is the fear that we have lied to ourselves, that we have thrown down our lives at the feet of a false god.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux): 73
Psalm 27:1-4 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The LORD is my life's refuge; of whom should I be afraid?
4-23 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
If I am to know the will of God, I must have the right attitude toward life. I must first of all know what life is, and to know the purpose of my existence.
Thomas Merton. No Man Is An Island. New York: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1955: 63.
Thought for the Day
He does not need our sacrifices, He asks for our selves.
No Man Is An Island: 63.
Contemplative Pause: Throughout this week, pause, take a breath, and listen with your heart. How are you giving yourself?
4-22 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
The summit of the soul is like a mountain top which has been hidden in the clouds, but from which the clouds now melt away, leaving the peak free in the clear upper air through which it receives the full light of the sun.
The New Man, (New York: Farrar, Straus, Giroux) 1961: 207
Psalm 11:1-2 In the LORD I take refuge; how can you say to me, "Flee like a bird to the mountains"
The summit of the soul is like a mountain top which has been hidden in the clouds, but from which the clouds now melt away, leaving the peak free in the clear upper air through which it receives the full light of the sun.
The New Man, (New York: Farrar, Straus, Giroux) 1961: 207
Psalm 11:1-2 In the LORD I take refuge; how can you say to me, "Flee like a bird to the mountains"
4-21 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Is it true to say that one goes into solitude to "Get at the root of existence"? It would be better simply to say that in solitude one is at the root. He who is alone and is conscious of what his solitude means, finds himself simply in the ground of life.
Thomas Merton. Love and Living. (New York: Harcourt) p 22
Thought for the Day: Can we not simply be ourselves without thinking about it? This is true solitude.
Love and Living. 22
Is it true to say that one goes into solitude to "Get at the root of existence"? It would be better simply to say that in solitude one is at the root. He who is alone and is conscious of what his solitude means, finds himself simply in the ground of life.
Thomas Merton. Love and Living. (New York: Harcourt) p 22
Thought for the Day: Can we not simply be ourselves without thinking about it? This is true solitude.
Love and Living. 22
4-20 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
When man is grounded in authentic truth and love the roots of desire themselves wither, brokenness is at an end and truth is found in the wholeness and simplicity of Nirvana: perfect awareness and perfect compassion.
Zen and the Birds of Appetite, (New York: New Directions, 1973): 84
Psalm 85:10-12 Love and truth will meet; justice and peace will kiss
When man is grounded in authentic truth and love the roots of desire themselves wither, brokenness is at an end and truth is found in the wholeness and simplicity of Nirvana: perfect awareness and perfect compassion.
Zen and the Birds of Appetite, (New York: New Directions, 1973): 84
Psalm 85:10-12 Love and truth will meet; justice and peace will kiss
4-19 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Contemplation is the sudden intuitive penetration of what really IS. It is the unexpected leap of the spirit of man into the existential luminosity of Reality Itself, not merely by the metaphysical intuition of being, but by the transcendent fulfillment of an existential communion with Him Who Is.
The New Man, (New York: Farrar, Straus, Giroux) 1961:14
Thought for the Day: Contemplation is the perfection of love and of knowledge.
The New Man: 13
Contemplation is the sudden intuitive penetration of what really IS. It is the unexpected leap of the spirit of man into the existential luminosity of Reality Itself, not merely by the metaphysical intuition of being, but by the transcendent fulfillment of an existential communion with Him Who Is.
The New Man, (New York: Farrar, Straus, Giroux) 1961:14
Thought for the Day: Contemplation is the perfection of love and of knowledge.
The New Man: 13
4-18- PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
We must in all things seek God. But we do not seek Him the way we seek a lost object, a "thing." He is present to us in our heart, in our personal subjectivity, and to seek Him is to recognize this fact.
Thomas Merton. Seasons of Celebration. (New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1950): 223.
Thought for the Day: We seek God by striving to surrender ourselves to Him whom we do not see
Seasons of Celebration: 224
We must in all things seek God. But we do not seek Him the way we seek a lost object, a "thing." He is present to us in our heart, in our personal subjectivity, and to seek Him is to recognize this fact.
Thomas Merton. Seasons of Celebration. (New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1950): 223.
Thought for the Day: We seek God by striving to surrender ourselves to Him whom we do not see
Seasons of Celebration: 224
4-17 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Silence helps draw together the scattered and dissipated energies of a fragmented existence. It helps us to concentrate on a purpose that really corresponds not only to the deeper needs of our own being but also to God's intentions for us.
Love and Living. (New York: Harcourt): 42-43
Psalm 124: 8: Our help is in the name of the LORD, the maker of heaven and earth
Silence helps draw together the scattered and dissipated energies of a fragmented existence. It helps us to concentrate on a purpose that really corresponds not only to the deeper needs of our own being but also to God's intentions for us.
Love and Living. (New York: Harcourt): 42-43
Psalm 124: 8: Our help is in the name of the LORD, the maker of heaven and earth
4-16 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Do you want to know God? Then learn to understand the weaknesses and imperfections of other men. But how can you understand the weaknesses of others unless you understand your own? And how can you see the meaning of your own limitations until you have received mercy from God, by which you know yourself and Him?
Thomas Merton. No Man Is An Island. New York: Doubleday and Company, 1955: 214
Thought for the Day: It is not sufficient to forgive others: we must forgive them with humility and compassion. If we forgive them without humility, our forgiveness is a mockery: it presupposes that we are better than they.
No Man Is An Island.: 214
Do you want to know God? Then learn to understand the weaknesses and imperfections of other men. But how can you understand the weaknesses of others unless you understand your own? And how can you see the meaning of your own limitations until you have received mercy from God, by which you know yourself and Him?
Thomas Merton. No Man Is An Island. New York: Doubleday and Company, 1955: 214
Thought for the Day: It is not sufficient to forgive others: we must forgive them with humility and compassion. If we forgive them without humility, our forgiveness is a mockery: it presupposes that we are better than they.
No Man Is An Island.: 214
4-15 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
“Love is being itself. It's like a spring coming up out of the ground of our own depths. "I am gift." All that I am is something that's given, and given freely. Being doesn't cost anything. There's no price tag, no strings attached. It's simply given. “
Merton, Thomas. The Springs of Contemplation: A Retreat at the Abbey of Gethsemani (Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 1992), 26
Thought for the Day
God wants to know the divine goodness in us.
The Springs of Contemplation: A Retreat at the Abbey of Gethsemani: 24
“Love is being itself. It's like a spring coming up out of the ground of our own depths. "I am gift." All that I am is something that's given, and given freely. Being doesn't cost anything. There's no price tag, no strings attached. It's simply given. “
Merton, Thomas. The Springs of Contemplation: A Retreat at the Abbey of Gethsemani (Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 1992), 26
Thought for the Day
God wants to know the divine goodness in us.
The Springs of Contemplation: A Retreat at the Abbey of Gethsemani: 24
4-14 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
He is the light which is the "life of men." [John 1:4] This light shines in darkness, but unless God Himself draws us out of the darkness, we are not enlightened by Him, even though He be present.
The New Man, (New York: Farrar, Straus, Giroux) 1961: 205-206
Psalm 67:1-2 May God be gracious to us and bless us; may his face shine upon us.
He is the light which is the "life of men." [John 1:4] This light shines in darkness, but unless God Himself draws us out of the darkness, we are not enlightened by Him, even though He be present.
The New Man, (New York: Farrar, Straus, Giroux) 1961: 205-206
Psalm 67:1-2 May God be gracious to us and bless us; may his face shine upon us.
4-13 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Do you want to know God? Then learn to understand the weaknesses and imperfections of other men. But how can you understand the weaknesses of others unless you understand your own? And how can you see the meaning of your own limitations until you have received mercy from God, by which you know yourself and Him?
Thomas Merton. No Man Is An Island. New York: Doubleday and Company, 1955: 214
Thought for the Day: It is not sufficient to forgive others: we must forgive them with humility and compassion. If we forgive them without humility, our forgiveness is a mockery: it presupposes that we are better than they.
No Man Is An Island.: 214
Do you want to know God? Then learn to understand the weaknesses and imperfections of other men. But how can you understand the weaknesses of others unless you understand your own? And how can you see the meaning of your own limitations until you have received mercy from God, by which you know yourself and Him?
Thomas Merton. No Man Is An Island. New York: Doubleday and Company, 1955: 214
Thought for the Day: It is not sufficient to forgive others: we must forgive them with humility and compassion. If we forgive them without humility, our forgiveness is a mockery: it presupposes that we are better than they.
No Man Is An Island.: 214
4-12 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
...They are truths with which, for centuries, man has slowly and with difficulty built a civilized world in the effort to make happiness possible, not merely by making life materially better, but by helping men to understand and live their life more fruitfully.
Honorable Reader: Reflections on My Work, ed. Robert E. Daggy. (New York: Crossroads, 1985). 123-136
Thought for the Day: The key to this understanding is the truth that "No man is an island." A selfish life cannot be fruitful.
...They are truths with which, for centuries, man has slowly and with difficulty built a civilized world in the effort to make happiness possible, not merely by making life materially better, but by helping men to understand and live their life more fruitfully.
Honorable Reader: Reflections on My Work, ed. Robert E. Daggy. (New York: Crossroads, 1985). 123-136
Thought for the Day: The key to this understanding is the truth that "No man is an island." A selfish life cannot be fruitful.
4-11 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Creation had been given to man as a clean window through which the light of God could shine into men's souls. Sun and moon, night and day, rain, the sea, the crops, the flowering tree, all these things were transparent. They spoke to man not of themselves only but of Him who made them.
A Merton Reader (New York: Image Books, 1989): 395
Psalm 72:6-7 May he be like rain coming down upon the fields, like showers watering the earth that abundance may flourish in his days, great bounty, till the moon be no more.
Creation had been given to man as a clean window through which the light of God could shine into men's souls. Sun and moon, night and day, rain, the sea, the crops, the flowering tree, all these things were transparent. They spoke to man not of themselves only but of Him who made them.
A Merton Reader (New York: Image Books, 1989): 395
Psalm 72:6-7 May he be like rain coming down upon the fields, like showers watering the earth that abundance may flourish in his days, great bounty, till the moon be no more.
4-10 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
...True solitude is selfless. Therefore, it is rich in silence and charity and peace. It finds in itself seemingly inexhaustible resources of good to bestow on other people.
The true solitary must recognize that he is obliged to love other men and even all things created by God... Love is his solitude.
No Man Is An Island (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 248, 251
Thought for the Day: True solitude is found in humility, which is infinitely rich.
No Man Is An Island: 48
...True solitude is selfless. Therefore, it is rich in silence and charity and peace. It finds in itself seemingly inexhaustible resources of good to bestow on other people.
The true solitary must recognize that he is obliged to love other men and even all things created by God... Love is his solitude.
No Man Is An Island (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 248, 251
Thought for the Day: True solitude is found in humility, which is infinitely rich.
No Man Is An Island: 48
4-9 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
I must let faith elevate, heal, and transform the light of my mind.
No Man Is An Island (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 16
Psalm 30:1-3 O LORD, my God, I cried out to you for help and you healed* me
Contemplative Pause: Throughout this day, pause, take a breath, and listen with your heart. How does your faith transform your day?
I must let faith elevate, heal, and transform the light of my mind.
No Man Is An Island (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 16
Psalm 30:1-3 O LORD, my God, I cried out to you for help and you healed* me
Contemplative Pause: Throughout this day, pause, take a breath, and listen with your heart. How does your faith transform your day?
4-8 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
If I am to know the will of God, I must have the right attitude toward life. I must first of all know what life is, and to know the purpose of my existence.
Thomas Merton. No Man Is An Island. New York: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1955: 63.
Thought for the Day
He does not need our sacrifices, He asks for our selves.
No Man Is An Island: 63.
If I am to know the will of God, I must have the right attitude toward life. I must first of all know what life is, and to know the purpose of my existence.
Thomas Merton. No Man Is An Island. New York: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1955: 63.
Thought for the Day
He does not need our sacrifices, He asks for our selves.
No Man Is An Island: 63.
4-7 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
The delicate action of grace in the soul is profoundly disturbed by all human violence. Passion, when it is inordinate, does violence to the spirit and its most dangerous violence is that in which we seem to find peace. Violence is not completely fatal until it ceases to disturb us.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux). 114
Thought for the Day: The peace produced by grace is a spiritual stability too deep for violence - it is unshakeable, unless we ourselves admit the power of passion into our own sanctuary.
Thoughts in Solitude: 114
The delicate action of grace in the soul is profoundly disturbed by all human violence. Passion, when it is inordinate, does violence to the spirit and its most dangerous violence is that in which we seem to find peace. Violence is not completely fatal until it ceases to disturb us.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux). 114
Thought for the Day: The peace produced by grace is a spiritual stability too deep for violence - it is unshakeable, unless we ourselves admit the power of passion into our own sanctuary.
Thoughts in Solitude: 114
4-6 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
To say that I am made in the image of God is to say that love is the reason for my existence, for God is love. Love is my true identity. Selflessness is my true self. Love is my true character. Love is my name.
Thomas Merton. New Seeds of Contemplation (New York: New Dimensions Press, 1961): 60
Thought for the Day: To find love I must enter into the sanctuary where it is hidden, which is the mystery of God.
New Seeds of Contemplation: 61
To say that I am made in the image of God is to say that love is the reason for my existence, for God is love. Love is my true identity. Selflessness is my true self. Love is my true character. Love is my name.
Thomas Merton. New Seeds of Contemplation (New York: New Dimensions Press, 1961): 60
Thought for the Day: To find love I must enter into the sanctuary where it is hidden, which is the mystery of God.
New Seeds of Contemplation: 61
4-5 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
She (Wisdom) is in all things like the air receiving the sunlight. In her they prosper. In her they glorify God. In her they rejoice to reflect Him. In her they are united with him.
A Merton Reader, ed. by Thomas P. McDonnell. (New York: Image Books, 1989): 510
Psalm 1:2-3 He is like a tree planted near streams of water, that yields its fruit in season; Its leaves never wither; whatever he does prospers.
She (Wisdom) is in all things like the air receiving the sunlight. In her they prosper. In her they glorify God. In her they rejoice to reflect Him. In her they are united with him.
A Merton Reader, ed. by Thomas P. McDonnell. (New York: Image Books, 1989): 510
Psalm 1:2-3 He is like a tree planted near streams of water, that yields its fruit in season; Its leaves never wither; whatever he does prospers.
4-4 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
If you want a spiritual life, you must unify your life. A life is either all spiritual or not at all. No man can serve two masters. Your life is shaped by the end you live for. You are made in the image of what you desire.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude (New York: Farrar Straus & Giroux, 1958): 56.
Thought for the Day: Where there is no peace, there is no light.
Thomas Merton. Honorable Reader: Reflections on My Work. Edited by Robert E. Daggy (New York: Crossroad, 1989): 115.]
If you want a spiritual life, you must unify your life. A life is either all spiritual or not at all. No man can serve two masters. Your life is shaped by the end you live for. You are made in the image of what you desire.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude (New York: Farrar Straus & Giroux, 1958): 56.
Thought for the Day: Where there is no peace, there is no light.
Thomas Merton. Honorable Reader: Reflections on My Work. Edited by Robert E. Daggy (New York: Crossroad, 1989): 115.]
4-3 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
If we are called by God to holiness of life, and if holiness is beyond our natural power to achieve (which it certainly is) then it follows that God himself must give us the light, the strength, and the courage to fulfill the task he requires of us.
Life and Holiness (New York: Image): 16
Psalm 71:1 In you, LORD, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame
If we are called by God to holiness of life, and if holiness is beyond our natural power to achieve (which it certainly is) then it follows that God himself must give us the light, the strength, and the courage to fulfill the task he requires of us.
Life and Holiness (New York: Image): 16
Psalm 71:1 In you, LORD, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame
4-2 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Contemplation cannot be taught. It cannot even be clearly explained. It can only be hinted at, suggested, pointed to, symbolized. The more objectively and scientifically one tries to analyze it, the more he empties it of its real content, for this experience is beyond the reach of verbalization and of rationalization....
Thomas Merton. New Seeds of Contemplation. New York: New Directions Press, 1962: 6
Thought for the Day: The only way to get rid of misconceptions about contemplation is to experience it.
New Seeds of Contemplation: 6
Contemplation cannot be taught. It cannot even be clearly explained. It can only be hinted at, suggested, pointed to, symbolized. The more objectively and scientifically one tries to analyze it, the more he empties it of its real content, for this experience is beyond the reach of verbalization and of rationalization....
Thomas Merton. New Seeds of Contemplation. New York: New Directions Press, 1962: 6
Thought for the Day: The only way to get rid of misconceptions about contemplation is to experience it.
New Seeds of Contemplation: 6
Thomas Merton - Trappist monk of the Abbey of Gethsemani, Kentucky
4-1 PENTECOST (Thomas Merton)
Do you want to know God? Then learn to understand the weaknesses and imperfections of other men. But how can you understand the weaknesses of others unless you understand your own? And how can you see the meaning of your own limitations until you have received mercy from God, by which you know yourself and Him?
Thomas Merton. No Man Is An Island. New York: Doubleday and Company, 1955: 214
Thought for the Day: It is not sufficient to forgive others: we must forgive them with humility and compassion. If we forgive them without humility, our forgiveness is a mockery: it presupposes that we are better than they.
No Man Is An Island.: 214
Do you want to know God? Then learn to understand the weaknesses and imperfections of other men. But how can you understand the weaknesses of others unless you understand your own? And how can you see the meaning of your own limitations until you have received mercy from God, by which you know yourself and Him?
Thomas Merton. No Man Is An Island. New York: Doubleday and Company, 1955: 214
Thought for the Day: It is not sufficient to forgive others: we must forgive them with humility and compassion. If we forgive them without humility, our forgiveness is a mockery: it presupposes that we are better than they.
No Man Is An Island.: 214
EASTER 2014
3-31 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
The way to find the real "world" is not merely to measure and observe what is outside us, but to discover our own inner ground. For that is where the world is, first of all: in my deepest self.
Thomas Merton. Contemplation in A World of Action (New York: Doubleday & Company, 1973): 170
Thought for the Day: When I find the world in my own ground, it is impossible for me to be alienated by it.
Contemplation in A World of Action: 170
The way to find the real "world" is not merely to measure and observe what is outside us, but to discover our own inner ground. For that is where the world is, first of all: in my deepest self.
Thomas Merton. Contemplation in A World of Action (New York: Doubleday & Company, 1973): 170
Thought for the Day: When I find the world in my own ground, it is impossible for me to be alienated by it.
Contemplation in A World of Action: 170
3-30 SATURDAY Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
Therefore let me know trust in the feelings of my heart. My hope is in what the hand of man has never touched. Do not let me trust what I can grasp between my fingers.
Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux): 29
Psalm 31: 15 But I trust in you, LORD; I say, "You are my God."
Therefore let me know trust in the feelings of my heart. My hope is in what the hand of man has never touched. Do not let me trust what I can grasp between my fingers.
Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux): 29
Psalm 31: 15 But I trust in you, LORD; I say, "You are my God."
3-29 FRIDAY Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
In order to know and love God as He is, we must have God dwelling in us in a new way, not only in His creative power but in His mercy.
New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books): 40
Psalm 118:1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, his mercy endures forever
In order to know and love God as He is, we must have God dwelling in us in a new way, not only in His creative power but in His mercy.
New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books): 40
Psalm 118:1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, his mercy endures forever
3-28 Thursday Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
All truly contemplative souls have this in common: not that they gather exclusively in the desert, or that they shut themselves up in reclusion, but that where He is, there they are.
Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux): 95
Psalm 104:1-3 Bless the LORD, my soul! LORD, my God, you are great indeed! You are clothed with majesty and splendor
All truly contemplative souls have this in common: not that they gather exclusively in the desert, or that they shut themselves up in reclusion, but that where He is, there they are.
Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux): 95
Psalm 104:1-3 Bless the LORD, my soul! LORD, my God, you are great indeed! You are clothed with majesty and splendor
3-27 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
We are supposed to be the light of the world. We are supposed to be a light to ourselves and to others.
Life and Holiness (New York: Image): 16
Psalm 27: 1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The LORD is my life's refuge; of whom should I be afraid
3-26 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
It is our emptiness in the presence of the abyss of His reality, our silence in the presence of His infinitely rich silence, our joy in the bosom of the serene darkness in which His light holds us absorbed, it is all this that praises Him.
New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books): 231
Psalm 22:21-22 Then I will proclaim your name to my brethren; in the assembly I will praise you
It is our emptiness in the presence of the abyss of His reality, our silence in the presence of His infinitely rich silence, our joy in the bosom of the serene darkness in which His light holds us absorbed, it is all this that praises Him.
New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books): 231
Psalm 22:21-22 Then I will proclaim your name to my brethren; in the assembly I will praise you
3-25 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
God can give us all these good things if He wants to. But they are of no importance compared with faith, which is essential.
New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books):188
Psalm 16:1-4 I say to the LORD, you are my Lord, you are my only good
God can give us all these good things if He wants to. But they are of no importance compared with faith, which is essential.
New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books):188
Psalm 16:1-4 I say to the LORD, you are my Lord, you are my only good
3-24 Sunday Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
It (Contemplation) is that life itself, fully awake, fully active, fully aware that it is alive. It is spiritual wonder. It is spontaneous awe at the sacredness of life, of being. It is gratitude for life, for awareness and for being.
New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books):1
Psalm 105:3-5 Seek out the LORD and his might; constantly seek his face. Recall the wondrous deeds he has done, his wonders and words of judgment
It (Contemplation) is that life itself, fully awake, fully active, fully aware that it is alive. It is spiritual wonder. It is spontaneous awe at the sacredness of life, of being. It is gratitude for life, for awareness and for being.
New Seeds of Contemplation. (New York: New Directions Books):1
Psalm 105:3-5 Seek out the LORD and his might; constantly seek his face. Recall the wondrous deeds he has done, his wonders and words of judgment
3-23 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
You pray best when the mirror of your soul is empty of every image except the Image of the Invisible Father. This image is the Wisdom of the Father, the Word of the Father, Verbum spirans amorem, the glory of the Father.
Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux): 113
Psalm 102: 16 The nations shall fear your name, LORD, all the kings of the earth, your glory
You pray best when the mirror of your soul is empty of every image except the Image of the Invisible Father. This image is the Wisdom of the Father, the Word of the Father, Verbum spirans amorem, the glory of the Father.
Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux): 113
Psalm 102: 16 The nations shall fear your name, LORD, all the kings of the earth, your glory
3-22 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
There is no such thing as a kind of prayer in which you do absolutely nothing. ...Contemplative prayer is a deep and simplified spiritual activity in which the mind and will are fused into one.
Seeds of Contemplation. (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949): 160
Psalm 102: 2-3 LORD, hear my prayer; let my cry come to you. Do not hide your face from me in the day of my distress. Turn your ear to me; when I call, answer me quickly
There is no such thing as a kind of prayer in which you do absolutely nothing. ...Contemplative prayer is a deep and simplified spiritual activity in which the mind and will are fused into one.
Seeds of Contemplation. (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949): 160
Psalm 102: 2-3 LORD, hear my prayer; let my cry come to you. Do not hide your face from me in the day of my distress. Turn your ear to me; when I call, answer me quickly
3-21 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
A door opens in the center of our being and we seem to fall through it into immense depths which, although they are infinite, are all accessible to us; all eternity seems to have become ours in this one placid and breathless contact.
Seeds of Contemplation. (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949): 146
Psalm 40:8-10 I delight to do your will, my God; your law is in my inner being!"
A door opens in the center of our being and we seem to fall through it into immense depths which, although they are infinite, are all accessible to us; all eternity seems to have become ours in this one placid and breathless contact.
Seeds of Contemplation. (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949): 146
Psalm 40:8-10 I delight to do your will, my God; your law is in my inner being!"
Thomas Merton
3-20 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
Occupy my whole life with the one thought and the one desire of love, that I may love not for the sake of merit, not for the sake of perfection, not for the sake of virtue, not for the sake of sanctity but for love alone.
Seeds of Contemplation. (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949): 36
Psalm 51:10-12 A clean heart create for me, God; renew within me a steadfast spirit
Occupy my whole life with the one thought and the one desire of love, that I may love not for the sake of merit, not for the sake of perfection, not for the sake of virtue, not for the sake of sanctity but for love alone.
Seeds of Contemplation. (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949): 36
Psalm 51:10-12 A clean heart create for me, God; renew within me a steadfast spirit
3-19 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
“If we trust God to act in us, God will act in us. This is how our lives become prophetic. ...If we are completely open to the Holy Spirit, then the Spirit will be able to lead us where God wants us to go. Going along that line, our lives will be prophetic.”
The Springs of Contemplation: A Retreat at the Abbey of Gethsemani (Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 1992): 64-65
Psalm 7:1-2 LORD my God, in you I trusted; save me; rescue me from all who pursue me
“If we trust God to act in us, God will act in us. This is how our lives become prophetic. ...If we are completely open to the Holy Spirit, then the Spirit will be able to lead us where God wants us to go. Going along that line, our lives will be prophetic.”
The Springs of Contemplation: A Retreat at the Abbey of Gethsemani (Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 1992): 64-65
Psalm 7:1-2 LORD my God, in you I trusted; save me; rescue me from all who pursue me
3-18 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
Only mercy can liberate us from the madness of our determination to be consistent - from the awful pattern of lusts, greeds, angers and hatreds which mix us up together like a mass of dough and thrust us all together into the oven.
Raids on the Unspeakable (New York: New Directions): 32
Psalm 145: 8 The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in mercy.
Only mercy can liberate us from the madness of our determination to be consistent - from the awful pattern of lusts, greeds, angers and hatreds which mix us up together like a mass of dough and thrust us all together into the oven.
Raids on the Unspeakable (New York: New Directions): 32
Psalm 145: 8 The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in mercy.
3-17 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
The true creative spirit must be fired with love and with an authentic desire of God.
Contemplation in a World of Action (Notre Dame, Indiana: Notre Dame Press, 1998): 24
Psalm 34: 19 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted, saves those whose spirit is crushed
The true creative spirit must be fired with love and with an authentic desire of God.
Contemplation in a World of Action (Notre Dame, Indiana: Notre Dame Press, 1998): 24
Psalm 34: 19 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted, saves those whose spirit is crushed
3-16 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
If the salvation of society depends, in the long run, on the moral and spiritual health of individuals, the subject of contemplation becomes a vastly important one, since contemplation is one of the indications of spiritual maturity. ...You cannot save the world merely with a system. You cannot have peace without charity. You cannot have social order without saints, mystics, and prophets.
A Merton Reader, ed. by Thomas P. McDonnell, (New York: Image Books, 1989): 375
Psalm 106: 21 They forgot the God who had saved them, who had done great deeds in Egypt
If the salvation of society depends, in the long run, on the moral and spiritual health of individuals, the subject of contemplation becomes a vastly important one, since contemplation is one of the indications of spiritual maturity. ...You cannot save the world merely with a system. You cannot have peace without charity. You cannot have social order without saints, mystics, and prophets.
A Merton Reader, ed. by Thomas P. McDonnell, (New York: Image Books, 1989): 375
Psalm 106: 21 They forgot the God who had saved them, who had done great deeds in Egypt
3-15 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
If we are called by God to holiness of life, and if holiness is beyond our natural power to achieve (which it certainly is) then it follows that God himself must give us the light, the strength, and the courage to fulfill the task he requires of us. He will certainly give us the grace we need. If we do not become saints it is because we do not avail ourselves of his gift.
Life and Holiness (New York: Image): 16
Psalm 46: 2 God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in distress
If we are called by God to holiness of life, and if holiness is beyond our natural power to achieve (which it certainly is) then it follows that God himself must give us the light, the strength, and the courage to fulfill the task he requires of us. He will certainly give us the grace we need. If we do not become saints it is because we do not avail ourselves of his gift.
Life and Holiness (New York: Image): 16
Psalm 46: 2 God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in distress
3-14 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
St. Benedict never said a monk must never go out, never receive a letter, never have a visitor, never talk to anyone, never hear any news. He meant that the monk should distinguish what is useless or harmful from what is useful and salutary, and in all things glorify God.
Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander (New York: Image): 14
Psalm 147: 12 Glorify the LORD, Jerusalem; Zion, offer praise to your God.
St. Benedict never said a monk must never go out, never receive a letter, never have a visitor, never talk to anyone, never hear any news. He meant that the monk should distinguish what is useless or harmful from what is useful and salutary, and in all things glorify God.
Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander (New York: Image): 14
Psalm 147: 12 Glorify the LORD, Jerusalem; Zion, offer praise to your God.
3-13 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
St. Benedict never said a monk must never go out, never receive a letter, never have a visitor, never talk to anyone, never hear any news. He meant that the monk should distinguish what is useless or harmful from what is useful and salutary, and in all things glorify God.
Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander (New York: Image): 14
Psalm 147: 12 Glorify the LORD, Jerusalem; Zion, offer praise to your God.
St. Benedict never said a monk must never go out, never receive a letter, never have a visitor, never talk to anyone, never hear any news. He meant that the monk should distinguish what is useless or harmful from what is useful and salutary, and in all things glorify God.
Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander (New York: Image): 14
Psalm 147: 12 Glorify the LORD, Jerusalem; Zion, offer praise to your God.
3-12 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
To choose the world is to choose to do the work I am capable of doing, in collaboration with my brother and sister, to make the world better, more free, more just, more livable, more human. And it has now become transparently obvious that mere automatic "rejection of the world" and "contempt for the world" is in fact not a choice but an evasion of choice.
Thomas Merton. Contemplation in A World of Action (New York: Doubleday & Company, 1973: 164-165.
Thought for the Day: If I had no choice about the age in which I was to live, I nevertheless have a choice about the attitude I take and about the way and the extent of my participation in its living ongoing events.
Contemplation in A World of Action: 164
To choose the world is to choose to do the work I am capable of doing, in collaboration with my brother and sister, to make the world better, more free, more just, more livable, more human. And it has now become transparently obvious that mere automatic "rejection of the world" and "contempt for the world" is in fact not a choice but an evasion of choice.
Thomas Merton. Contemplation in A World of Action (New York: Doubleday & Company, 1973: 164-165.
Thought for the Day: If I had no choice about the age in which I was to live, I nevertheless have a choice about the attitude I take and about the way and the extent of my participation in its living ongoing events.
Contemplation in A World of Action: 164
3-11 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
When man is grounded in authentic truth and love the roots of desire themselves wither, brokenness is at an end and truth is found in the wholeness and simplicity of Nirvana: perfect awareness and perfect compassion.
Zen and the Birds of Appetite, (New York: New Directions, 1973): 84
Psalm 51: 3 Have mercy on me, God, in accord with your merciful love; in your abundant compassion blot out my transgressions
When man is grounded in authentic truth and love the roots of desire themselves wither, brokenness is at an end and truth is found in the wholeness and simplicity of Nirvana: perfect awareness and perfect compassion.
Zen and the Birds of Appetite, (New York: New Directions, 1973): 84
Psalm 51: 3 Have mercy on me, God, in accord with your merciful love; in your abundant compassion blot out my transgressions
3-10 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
When we love God's will we find Him and own His joy in all things.
A Merton Reader, ed. by Thomas P. McDonnell, (New York: Image Books, 1989): 65
Psalm 95: 1 Come, let us sing joyfully to the LORD; cry out to the rock of our salvation.
When we love God's will we find Him and own His joy in all things.
A Merton Reader, ed. by Thomas P. McDonnell, (New York: Image Books, 1989): 65
Psalm 95: 1 Come, let us sing joyfully to the LORD; cry out to the rock of our salvation.
Abbey of Gethsemani
3-9 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
The presence of discernment and detachment is manifested by a spontaneous thirst for what is good - charity, union with the will of God - and an equally spontaneous repugnance for what is evil.
A Merton Reader, ed. by Thomas P. McDonnell.(New York: Image Books, 1989): 384
Psalm: 42: 3 My soul thirsts for God, the living God. When can I enter and see the face of God?
The presence of discernment and detachment is manifested by a spontaneous thirst for what is good - charity, union with the will of God - and an equally spontaneous repugnance for what is evil.
A Merton Reader, ed. by Thomas P. McDonnell.(New York: Image Books, 1989): 384
Psalm: 42: 3 My soul thirsts for God, the living God. When can I enter and see the face of God?
3-8 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
The humble man receives praise the way a clean window takes the light of the sun. The truer and more intense the light is, the less you see of the glass.
Seeds of Contemplation (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949): 112
Psalm: 50: 23 Those who offer praise as a sacrifice honor me; I will let him whose way is steadfast look upon the salvation of God.
The humble man receives praise the way a clean window takes the light of the sun. The truer and more intense the light is, the less you see of the glass.
Seeds of Contemplation (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949): 112
Psalm: 50: 23 Those who offer praise as a sacrifice honor me; I will let him whose way is steadfast look upon the salvation of God.
3-7 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
God does not give His joy to us for ourselves alone, and if we could possess Him for ourselves alone we would not possess Him at all. Any joy that does not overflow from our soul and help other men to rejoice in God does not come to us from God.
A Merton Reader, ed. by Thomas P. McDonnell.(New York: Image Books, 1989): 439
Psalm: 19: 9 The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart. The command of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eye.
God does not give His joy to us for ourselves alone, and if we could possess Him for ourselves alone we would not possess Him at all. Any joy that does not overflow from our soul and help other men to rejoice in God does not come to us from God.
A Merton Reader, ed. by Thomas P. McDonnell.(New York: Image Books, 1989): 439
Psalm: 19: 9 The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart. The command of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eye.
3-6 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
For all God's gifts there must be in us a response of thanksgiving and happiness and joy: but here we thank Him less by words than by the serene happiness of silent acceptance.
Seeds of Contemplation. (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949): 150
Psalm: 105: 1 Give thanks to the LORD, invoke his name.
For all God's gifts there must be in us a response of thanksgiving and happiness and joy: but here we thank Him less by words than by the serene happiness of silent acceptance.
Seeds of Contemplation. (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949): 150
Psalm: 105: 1 Give thanks to the LORD, invoke his name.
3-5 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
All the passions can be reduced to four: joy, hope, fear, and grief. These four are so closely connected that, when one is controlled, the others all obey. Consequently they can be reduced to one: joy. And desire is the movement of the soul seeking joy.
The Ascent to Truth. (New York: Harvest/HBJ Books, 1981): 54
Psalm: 1: 2 The law of the LORD* is his joy; and on his law he meditates day and night.
All the passions can be reduced to four: joy, hope, fear, and grief. These four are so closely connected that, when one is controlled, the others all obey. Consequently they can be reduced to one: joy. And desire is the movement of the soul seeking joy.
The Ascent to Truth. (New York: Harvest/HBJ Books, 1981): 54
Psalm: 1: 2 The law of the LORD* is his joy; and on his law he meditates day and night.
3-4 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
For God is everywhere. His truth and His love pervade all things as the light and the heat of the sun pervade our atmosphere.
Seeds of Contemplation. (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949): 91
Psalm: 31: 6 Into your hands I commend my spirit; you will redeem me, LORD, God of truth.
For God is everywhere. His truth and His love pervade all things as the light and the heat of the sun pervade our atmosphere.
Seeds of Contemplation. (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949): 91
Psalm: 31: 6 Into your hands I commend my spirit; you will redeem me, LORD, God of truth.
3-3 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
To live for oneself alone is to die. We grow and flourish in our own lives in so far as we live for others and through others. What we ourselves lack, God has given them. They must complete us where we are deficient.
Thomas Merton. Seasons of Celebration. (New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1950): 229
Thought for the Day: We must always remain open to one another so that we can always share with each other.
To live for oneself alone is to die. We grow and flourish in our own lives in so far as we live for others and through others. What we ourselves lack, God has given them. They must complete us where we are deficient.
Thomas Merton. Seasons of Celebration. (New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1950): 229
Thought for the Day: We must always remain open to one another so that we can always share with each other.
3-2 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
The hope of the Christian must be, like the hope of a child, pure and full of trust.
Faith and Violence. (Notre Dame: University of Notre Dame Press: 1968): 27
Psalm 19: 8 The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul. The decree of the LORD is trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple
The hope of the Christian must be, like the hope of a child, pure and full of trust.
Faith and Violence. (Notre Dame: University of Notre Dame Press: 1968): 27
Psalm 19: 8 The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul. The decree of the LORD is trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple
3-1 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
God is experientially present, and we are aware that God is with us. This is contemplation, isn't it, the experience of the nearness and closeness of God? Therefore, if we love, the love which makes us love one another in community is that which makes us contemplatives.
The Springs of Contemplation: A Retreat at the Abbey of Gethsemani (Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 1992), 51
Thought for the Day
Because we love, God is present. Contemplation is presence.
The Springs of Contemplation: A Retreat at the Abbey of Gethsemani: 51
2-29 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
"The new man lives in a world that is always being created and renewed. He lives in this realm of renewal and creation. He lives in life.
The Intimate Merton, ed. Patrick Hart and Jonathan Montaldo. (New York: HarperCollins, 1999): 138
Psalm: 51: 12 A clean heart create for me, God; renew within me a steadfast spirit.
"The new man lives in a world that is always being created and renewed. He lives in this realm of renewal and creation. He lives in life.
The Intimate Merton, ed. Patrick Hart and Jonathan Montaldo. (New York: HarperCollins, 1999): 138
Psalm: 51: 12 A clean heart create for me, God; renew within me a steadfast spirit.
2-28 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
A tree gives glory to God first of all by being a tree. For in being what God means it to be, it is imitating an idea which is in God and which is not distinct from the essence of God, and therefore a tree imitates God by being a tree.
The more it is like itself, the more it is like Him. If it tried to be like something else which it was never intended to be, it would be less like God and therefore it would give Him less glory.
Merton, Thomas. Seeds of Contemplation. (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949), 24
Thought for the Day
...No two trees are alike. And their individuality is no imperfection.
Seeds of Contemplation: 24
A tree gives glory to God first of all by being a tree. For in being what God means it to be, it is imitating an idea which is in God and which is not distinct from the essence of God, and therefore a tree imitates God by being a tree.
The more it is like itself, the more it is like Him. If it tried to be like something else which it was never intended to be, it would be less like God and therefore it would give Him less glory.
Merton, Thomas. Seeds of Contemplation. (Norfolk, CT: New Directions Books, 1949), 24
Thought for the Day
...No two trees are alike. And their individuality is no imperfection.
Seeds of Contemplation: 24
2-27 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
"She (Wisdom) is in all things like the air receiving the sunlight. In her they prosper. In her they glorify God. In her they rejoice to reflect Him. In her they are united with him."
A Merton Reader, ed. by Thomas P. McDonnell. (New York: Image Books, 1989): 510
Psalm 1:3 He is like a tree planted near streams of water, that yields its fruit in season; Its leaves never wither; whatever he does prospers.
"She (Wisdom) is in all things like the air receiving the sunlight. In her they prosper. In her they glorify God. In her they rejoice to reflect Him. In her they are united with him."
A Merton Reader, ed. by Thomas P. McDonnell. (New York: Image Books, 1989): 510
Psalm 1:3 He is like a tree planted near streams of water, that yields its fruit in season; Its leaves never wither; whatever he does prospers.
2-26 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
"Sunrise is an event that calls forth solumn music in the very depths of man's nature, as if one's whole being has to attune itself to the cosmos and praise God for the new day, praise Him in the name of all the creatures that ever were or ever will be.
Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander (New York: Image): 280
Psalm: 116: 17 I will offer a sacrifice of praise and call on the name of the LORD
2-25 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
"If we are called by God to holiness of life, and if holiness is beyond our natural power to achieve (which it certainly is) then it follows that God himself must give us the light, the strength, and the courage to fulfill the task he requires of us. He will certainly give us the grace we need.
Life and Holiness (New York: Image): 16
Psalm: 119: 1 Blessed those whose way is blameless, who walk by the law of the LORD.
"If we are called by God to holiness of life, and if holiness is beyond our natural power to achieve (which it certainly is) then it follows that God himself must give us the light, the strength, and the courage to fulfill the task he requires of us. He will certainly give us the grace we need.
Life and Holiness (New York: Image): 16
Psalm: 119: 1 Blessed those whose way is blameless, who walk by the law of the LORD.
2-24 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
"We can have the mercy of God whenever we want it, by being merciful to others; for it is God's mercy that acts on them, through us, when He leads us to treat them as He is treating us."
No Man is An Island. (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 211
Psalm: 130: 2 Lord, hear my cry! May your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy.
"We can have the mercy of God whenever we want it, by being merciful to others; for it is God's mercy that acts on them, through us, when He leads us to treat them as He is treating us."
No Man is An Island. (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 211
Psalm: 130: 2 Lord, hear my cry! May your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy.
2-23 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
"The only value of our life is that it is a gift of God. Gratitude shows reverence to God in the way it makes use of His gifts."
No Man is An Island. (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 116
Psalm: 138: 1 I thank you, Lord, with all my heart; in the presence of the angels to you I sing.
2-22 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
(Merton's Voice) Fear is the knowledge of ourselves in the presence of God's holiness. It is the knowledge of ourselves in His love, and it sees how far we are from being what His love would have us be. It knows Who He is and who we are!
No Man Is An Island (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 225
Psalm: 34: 5 I sought the LORD, and he answered me, delivered me from all my fears
"I sought the Lord, and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. They looked to Him and were radiant, and their faces will never be ashamed. This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him And saved him out of all his troubles." Psalm 34:4-6
(Merton's Voice) Fear is the knowledge of ourselves in the presence of God's holiness. It is the knowledge of ourselves in His love, and it sees how far we are from being what His love would have us be. It knows Who He is and who we are!
No Man Is An Island (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 225
Psalm: 34: 5 I sought the LORD, and he answered me, delivered me from all my fears
"I sought the Lord, and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. They looked to Him and were radiant, and their faces will never be ashamed. This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him And saved him out of all his troubles." Psalm 34:4-6
2-21 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
Finally I am coming to the conclusion that my highest ambition is to be what I already am. That I will never fulfill my obligation to surpass myself unless I first accept myself and, if I accept myself fully in the right way, I will already have surpassed myself. For it is the unaccepted self that stands in my way and will continue to do so as long as it is not accepted.
A Search for Solitude. Edited by Lawrence S. Cunningham (San Francisco, HarperSanFrancisco, 1996): 220
Thought for the Day: Our God-likeness begins at home. We must first become like ourselves and stop living "beside ourselves."
A Search for Solitude: 221 Thomas Merton
Finally I am coming to the conclusion that my highest ambition is to be what I already am. That I will never fulfill my obligation to surpass myself unless I first accept myself and, if I accept myself fully in the right way, I will already have surpassed myself. For it is the unaccepted self that stands in my way and will continue to do so as long as it is not accepted.
A Search for Solitude. Edited by Lawrence S. Cunningham (San Francisco, HarperSanFrancisco, 1996): 220
Thought for the Day: Our God-likeness begins at home. We must first become like ourselves and stop living "beside ourselves."
A Search for Solitude: 221 Thomas Merton
2-20 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
Alienation begins when culture divides me against myself, puts a mask on me, gives me a role I may or may not want to play. Alienation is complete when I become completely identified with my mask, totally satisfied with my role, and convince myself that any other identity or role is inconceivable.
Merton, Thomas. The Literary Essays of Thomas Merton, edited by Patrick Hart (New York: New Directions, 1981) 381
Thought for the Day: The man who sweats under his mask, whose role makes him itch with discomfort, who hates the division in himself, is already beginning to be free.
The Literary Essays of Thomas Merton: 381
Alienation begins when culture divides me against myself, puts a mask on me, gives me a role I may or may not want to play. Alienation is complete when I become completely identified with my mask, totally satisfied with my role, and convince myself that any other identity or role is inconceivable.
Merton, Thomas. The Literary Essays of Thomas Merton, edited by Patrick Hart (New York: New Directions, 1981) 381
Thought for the Day: The man who sweats under his mask, whose role makes him itch with discomfort, who hates the division in himself, is already beginning to be free.
The Literary Essays of Thomas Merton: 381
2-19 Lenten Reflection (Thomas Merton)
Love is not a matter of getting what you want. Quite the contrary. The insistence on always having what you want, on always being satisfied, on always being fulfilled, makes love impossible. To love you have to climb out of the cradle, where everything is "getting," and grow up to the maturity of giving, without concern for getting anything special in return.
Merton, Thomas. Love and Living. Naomi Burton Stone and Brother Patrick Hart, editors. New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1979: 30-31
Thought for the Day: Love is a positive force, a transcendent spiritual power. It is, in fact, the deepest creative power in human nature.
Love and Living: 31
Love is not a matter of getting what you want. Quite the contrary. The insistence on always having what you want, on always being satisfied, on always being fulfilled, makes love impossible. To love you have to climb out of the cradle, where everything is "getting," and grow up to the maturity of giving, without concern for getting anything special in return.
Merton, Thomas. Love and Living. Naomi Burton Stone and Brother Patrick Hart, editors. New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1979: 30-31
Thought for the Day: Love is a positive force, a transcendent spiritual power. It is, in fact, the deepest creative power in human nature.
Love and Living: 31
2-18 Lenten Reflection
Merton's Voice: What is the use of prayer if at the very moment of prayer, we have so little confidence in God that we are busy planning our own kind of answer to our prayer?
Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux): 24
Psalm 86:1 Incline your ear, LORD, and answer me.
Contemplative Pause: Throughout this day, pause, take a breath, and listen with your heart. Intentionally "listen" to the answers to your prayers.
Merton's Voice: What is the use of prayer if at the very moment of prayer, we have so little confidence in God that we are busy planning our own kind of answer to our prayer?
Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux): 24
Psalm 86:1 Incline your ear, LORD, and answer me.
Contemplative Pause: Throughout this day, pause, take a breath, and listen with your heart. Intentionally "listen" to the answers to your prayers.
2-17 Lenten Reflection
The words of the proud man impose silence on all others, so that he alone may be heard. The humble man speaks only in order to be spoken to. The humble man asks nothing but an alms, then waits and listens.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude (New York: Farrar Straus & Giroux, 1958): 91.
Thought for the Day: It is not speaking that breaks our silence, but the anxiety to be heard.
Thoughts in Solitude: 91
The words of the proud man impose silence on all others, so that he alone may be heard. The humble man speaks only in order to be spoken to. The humble man asks nothing but an alms, then waits and listens.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude (New York: Farrar Straus & Giroux, 1958): 91.
Thought for the Day: It is not speaking that breaks our silence, but the anxiety to be heard.
Thoughts in Solitude: 91
2-16 Lenten Reflection
Love is the revelation of our deepest personal meaning, value and identity. But this revelation remains impossible as long as we are the prisoners of our own egoism. I cannot find myself in myself, but only in another.
Thomas Merton. Love and Living. Naomi Burton Stone and Brother Patrick Hart, editors. New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1979: 31.
Thought for the Day: Love is not only a special way of being alive, it is the perfection of life. He who loves is more alive and more real that he was when he did not love.
Love and Living: 32
Love is the revelation of our deepest personal meaning, value and identity. But this revelation remains impossible as long as we are the prisoners of our own egoism. I cannot find myself in myself, but only in another.
Thomas Merton. Love and Living. Naomi Burton Stone and Brother Patrick Hart, editors. New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1979: 31.
Thought for the Day: Love is not only a special way of being alive, it is the perfection of life. He who loves is more alive and more real that he was when he did not love.
Love and Living: 32
2-15 Lenten Reflection
True sanctity does not consist in trying to live without creatures. It consists in using the goods of life in order to do the will of God. It consists in using God's creation in such a way that everything we touch and see and use and love gives new glory to God.
Thomas Merton. Seasons of Celebration. (New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1950): 137
Thought for the Day: To be a saint means to pass through the world gathering fruits for heaven from every tree and reaping God's glory in every field.
Seasons of Celebration: 137
True sanctity does not consist in trying to live without creatures. It consists in using the goods of life in order to do the will of God. It consists in using God's creation in such a way that everything we touch and see and use and love gives new glory to God.
Thomas Merton. Seasons of Celebration. (New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1950): 137
Thought for the Day: To be a saint means to pass through the world gathering fruits for heaven from every tree and reaping God's glory in every field.
Seasons of Celebration: 137
2-14 Lenten Reflection
Merton's Voice: He does not need our sacrifices, He asks for our selves. And if He prescribes certain acts of obedience, it is not because obedience is the beginning and the end of everything.
No Man is an Island (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 63
Psalm 51: 18: You do not desire sacrifice or I would give it; a burnt offering you would not accept.
Contemplative Pause: Throughout this day, pause, take a breath, and listen with your heart. What sacrifices do you feel you must make?
Merton's Voice: He does not need our sacrifices, He asks for our selves. And if He prescribes certain acts of obedience, it is not because obedience is the beginning and the end of everything.
No Man is an Island (New York: Harvest Book, 1983): 63
Psalm 51: 18: You do not desire sacrifice or I would give it; a burnt offering you would not accept.
Contemplative Pause: Throughout this day, pause, take a breath, and listen with your heart. What sacrifices do you feel you must make?
2-13 Lenten Reflection
Lent Reflection for Ash Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Merton's Voice: Let my trust be in Your mercy, not in myself. Let my hope be in Your love, not in health, or strength, or ability or human resources.
If I trust You, everything else will become, for me, strength, health, and support. Everything will bring me to heaven. If I do not trust You, everything will be my destruction.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux). 29-30
Psalm 51: 3: Have mercy on me, God, in accord with your merciful love; in your abundant compassion blot out my transgressions
Contemplative Pause: Throughout this day, pause, take a breath, and listen with your heart. How is God's mercy unfolding in your life?
Merton's Voice: Let my trust be in Your mercy, not in myself. Let my hope be in Your love, not in health, or strength, or ability or human resources.
If I trust You, everything else will become, for me, strength, health, and support. Everything will bring me to heaven. If I do not trust You, everything will be my destruction.
Thomas Merton. Thoughts in Solitude. (New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux). 29-30
Psalm 51: 3: Have mercy on me, God, in accord with your merciful love; in your abundant compassion blot out my transgressions
Contemplative Pause: Throughout this day, pause, take a breath, and listen with your heart. How is God's mercy unfolding in your life?
Thomas Merton at Gethsemane Monastery
