A Paradigm

In this paradigm I have chosen to use a Celtic Cross as a setting for understanding how some of the key elements of Christian spirituality relate. In the image you will first note that the background is “Grace.” I intentionally set this visibly in the background as a constant reminder that all of the Christian life is lived in the air of grace, and as we fumble our way towards a more holistic life we enjoy the repeated opportunities of Grace.

There is no real starting point in the illustration as we do not have the privilege of engaging in parts of the Christian life one at a time. We are thrown in, like children into a pool, to learn to swim as we go. So, without a starting point I will begin at the bottom with Sabbath. Sabbath creates the roots that keep our Christian lives “grounded.” Our time of Sabbath rest may inspire us to Action. Action leads us to places of Surrender (Emptying) where we must come to grips with the things that are hinder us in the race. Surrender leads us to Contemplation which often cannot move us to Action without a stop for Sabbath (Filling). All of this takes place around the four keys of Presence, Awareness, Wonder, and Illumination.

As we move toward the center we realize that all of this is revolving around Community and Hospitality. Arrows give us the idea of a spinning movement which naturally would cause each of the ends of the cross (Sabbath, Action, Surrender, and Contemplation) to have an outward pull (notice the arrows pointing outward). But our movement must be towards the center (Community and Hospitality) and against the pulling of imbalance. Too much emphasis on any one side creates instability.

The center is the true self. And in the last few days I have chosen to rename the center “the Gift of the True Self”. I believe living out of our true self is not something that we work harder for. Hard work may lead us closer in various ways, but ultimately living out of the true self is life “in the Spirit” which is a gift we receive from God not based on merit.