In the spiritual life, the word ‘discipline’ means ‘the effort to create some space in which God can act’. Discipline means to prevent everything in your life from being filled up. Discipline means that somewhere you’re not occupied, and certainly not preoccupied… to create that space in which something can happen that you hadn’t planned or counted on.
greta hearing from everyone. I too love Nouwen’s quotes but this one struck me. the idea of having holding forming space around us for God to move and live is amazing.
I knew I liked Henri Nouwen. . . but this particular quote is truly amazing. Keeping space in order to create a space. . . I’d never thought of this step as a discipline in itself. But yes, it is an important step to allow God to work. So glad I read this tonight.
Love this quote…love Henri Nouwen! I think the Benedictines have written about using periods of interruption in your day as “space” in which God can work. Rather than viewing interruption as an annoyance, they advise, view it as an opportunity.
Thanks for recommending the marriage devotion book below, too. I would love to take a marriage retreat with you at the helm, Jean!
Hmmmm, “create a space in which God can work.” Interesting thought.