Friday, January 11, 2008

The Holy; Thomas Kelly and "The Speaking Voice"

As we consider the notions of “the sanctified” and “the holy”, consider the following.
Thomas R. Kelly begins his devotional essay “The Light Within” (A Testament of Devotion, p.3) with these words.
Deep within us all there is an amazing inner sanctuary of the soul, a holy place, a Divine Center, speaking Voice, to which we may continuously return. Eternity is at our hearts, pressing upon our time-torn lives, warming us with intimations of an astounding destiny, calling us home unto Itself. Yielding to these persuasions, gladly committing ourselves in body and soul, utterly and completely, to the Light Within is the beginning of true life. It is a dynamic center, a creative Life that presses to birth within us. It is a Light Within which illumines the face of God and casts new shadows and new glories upon the face of men. It is a seed stirring to life if we do not choke it. It is the Shekinah of the soul, the Presence in the midst. Here is the Slumbering Christ, stirring to be awakened, to become the soul we clothe in earthly form and action. And He is within us all.
Questions: Is the “inner sanctuary” real? Does it or can it exist? Is there a “speaking Voice”? And if so, what is its relationship to “the sanctified” or to “the holy”?
I think that Kelly is referring to Jesus’ promise of “The Paraclete”, The Holy Spirit.
More to come.

3 comments:

lizzy_lyn said...

Welcome to the Blogosphere, Joe!

C.R. Macchi, PhD, LCMFT said...

I have enjoyed reading your thoughts. It is refreshing to hear how you unabashedly and courageously say what yout think.

You consistently challenge the notion that ideas and assumptions should go unquestioned. Yet, how you express your ideas never comes across as preachy or arrogant.

Thank you for the respect you always demonstrate to your reader/listner.

C.R. Macchi, PhD, LCMFT said...

I have enjoyed reading your thoughts. It is refreshing to hear how you unabashedly and courageously say what yout think.

You consistently challenge the notion that ideas and assumptions should go unquestioned. Yet, how you express your ideas never comes across as preachy or arrogant.

Thank you for the respect you always demonstrate to your reader/listner.