Comments on: November – Tending the Holy – Desert Spirituality

By: Jean Wise

Jean Wise — Wed, 02 Dec 2015 01:28:00 +0000

In reply to Jillian Sims. Being in the dessert is tough, Jillian. Often we see more when we reflect back to that time than when we are in it. One important reason to journal and stay open to all the lessons in life. Thanks for stopping by

By: Jillian Sims

Jillian Sims — Tue, 01 Dec 2015 20:21:00 +0000

the desert is so hard for me when i look around and dont see a way out. Also when we are vulerable and the enemy seems to like to attack us in the desert. Thank you for reminding me that there is more to the desert than the trails. It is an opportunity to encounter God. !!!

By: Jean Wise

Jean Wise — Tue, 24 Nov 2015 23:49:00 +0000

In reply to Lisa notes. Thanks Lisa. I have really enjoyed and have learned so much of my study of the desert mothers and fathers. You would love the stack of books I have accumulated. Think they will continue to accompany me into 2016. Happy Thanksgiving

By: Lisa notes

Lisa notes — Mon, 23 Nov 2015 15:56:00 +0000

Pondering the thought that the desert is where I’m vulnerable…much to think about in this very rich post, Jean! Going to have to reread it again! Thanks. 🙂

By: Jean Wise

Jean Wise — Sat, 21 Nov 2015 22:12:00 +0000

In reply to Nancy Ruegg. I forgot about those old Disney films - great comparison. You know living things that survive and thrive in the desert have to adapt and change too. Another lesson there for us. blessings on your weekend, Nancy

By: Jean Wise

Jean Wise — Sat, 21 Nov 2015 22:11:00 +0000

In reply to Ceil. a place of real vulnerability if we didn't trust God. Our weakness becomes his strength. hope your weekend is going well. snowing here.

By: Nancy Ruegg

Nancy Ruegg — Sat, 21 Nov 2015 16:37:00 +0000

That polar explorer who said, “At first you think there’s nothing there…and then there’s too much,” reminded me of Disney’s (old!) film about the desert. It highlighted the wonder of the plants and animals that live in a seemingly inhospitable terrain. What a meaningful parallel to the “dry” spirit looking for life. Quiet reflection, a search of the scriptures, a prayerful attitude, and before we know it, we’re astounded at the discoveries, the revelations that God provides–streams in the desert! Thank you, Jean, for your thought-provoking post.

By: Ceil

Ceil — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 18:05:00 +0000

Hi Jean! I think of the desert as a place where everything is stripped away. A place where I have to come face to face with God because He is all there is. Great challenge, but the promise of a great connection too.
The dryness and dust fly in the face of conventional wisdom which says to be happy and fulfilled, we need lots of ‘stuff’. Such a odd fight that goes on in our souls!
Blessings,
Ceil

By: Jean Wise

Jean Wise — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 00:37:00 +0000

In reply to Martha Orlando. I bet Merton and Nouwen are my two most quotes people. Love his wisdom. God hole is a great visual too. I like to think of it as God's DNA within us too. Thanks, Martha

By: Jean Wise

Jean Wise — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 00:36:00 +0000

In reply to Matt Philleo.

Love your comment, Matt. I know as I grow older I rely less and less on the strengths of my younger years – like my independence – as now those traits become hinderances and obstacles to my walk with God. The desert is the place I learn and grow. Blessings on your journey

By: Martha Orlando

Martha Orlando — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 22:21:00 +0000

I loved this quote from Merton: “However the truest solitude is not something outside you… it is an abyss opening up in the center of your soul. And this abyss of interior solitude is a hunger that will never be satisfied with any created thing.”
It made me think of the “God-hole” in our hearts that only He can fill, and nothing else will satisfy.
Blessings, Jean!

By: Matt Philleo

Matt Philleo — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 20:36:00 +0000

Right on target, Jean! This idea of the desert and seeking for God in the midst of the dryness is actually how I roll most of the time. This idea of seeking God in the darkness sums up my life and what I’m trying to convey as an artist. I don’t pretend the darkness isn’t there. It’s not a terrible place, because of where and Who it is leading me to. It feels lonely for a time, but there is a sense of expectancy, that if I hold out my arms to God physically, and spiritually, He will answer.

And He does, every time, if I wait on Him. His word becomes the food I eat. I hold onto the the promise of His salvation through Jesus Christ, knowing that He is my only hope, both for this life and the next.

I pray and read His word until the Spirit comes, illuminates the text for my edification, and faith–a gift from God–arises in my heart to take hold of the promises…

“My soul thirsts for you in a dry and weary land where there is no water.” “Seek the Lord until He comes and rains righteousness on you.” “Weeping may last for the night, but joy comes in the morning.” “God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. My heart trusts in Him and I am helped.”

Keep up the good writing, Jean!