Faith

Immediately the father of the child cried out, “I believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24, NRSV)

First of all, let me say that I am so glad that faith is a gift and not something that I have to think my way into!

I hear my voice in the cry of the father who when asked by Jesus, “Do you believe?”, replies, “I believe, help my unbelief!” Oh Yes, I see myself alright!

It has taken me many years to reach the point that I am okay with this. God is mystery, my attempts at understanding the Mystery can never lead me to a full and complete understanding – the more I know, the more I realize I can never know. This realization is some of what led me to the study of spiritual formation. Spiritual Formation, of course, includes the intellectual knowledge of but also has a strong emphasis on engaging the complete person – body, mind, emotions, and spirit. This wholistic approach is more focused towards providing one with tools and practices that assist the individual to experience God and God’s love. The tools and practices help make me open and available to God. In this open state I am able to recognize and accept the gift of faith.

God acts – I receive.

Thanks be to God!

Amen!