Dr. Jacobs. That was one of the best explanations I've heard on this topic. Practical, since the various examples explained the thought, but illuminating as a painter, because somehow I could see everything you were talking about. Unlike the many and various explanations from the West, including the protestant world, this helps tremendously with struggles I have had and am currently having with the question of hiddenness. I know these struggles are my own blindness, but it is refreshing when someone can explain it in a way that actually makes sense. Thank you.
"God is a consuming fire, and as such, he is dangerous to things combustible. His presence may energize that which is SUBSTANTIAL, like iron, but to that which is wood, hay, or stubble, he consumes."
Oof. Thank you!
I've been thinking more about The Great Divorce since talking about it at book club and comparing the concepts of 'significance' and 'substantiality.' I have been trained by the world to pursue significance but I know such a pursuit will only lead to an insubstantial, ghostly state that cannot endure, let alone "enjoy the pleasure and delight of the paradise of divine vision." I'm becoming more and more aware and grateful for a level of divine hiddenness that allows for and beckons me toward the way of the Solid Saints. On my best days I'd rather be the REAL deal, than a big deal.
I also just love the image of Christ as a flaming hot sword of Divine Energy piercing Hades, spreading the good infection of life. I sure hope that even there in Hades there is a chance of repentance. It seems like St John of Damascus in OF doesn't think so? ...Remembering our reading recently for class in chapter 18, "One also needs to know that what death is for human beings, the fall is for the angels. For after the fall there is no repentance for them, just as there is no repentance for human beings after death."
Thank you for your kind remarks, Nicole. I’m glad you’ve enjoyed the series — and the first meeting of the book club. On John of Damascus’ remark (and others like it), I discuss that tension a bit in my post, Carried by the Faith of Others.
Dr. Jacobs. That was one of the best explanations I've heard on this topic. Practical, since the various examples explained the thought, but illuminating as a painter, because somehow I could see everything you were talking about. Unlike the many and various explanations from the West, including the protestant world, this helps tremendously with struggles I have had and am currently having with the question of hiddenness. I know these struggles are my own blindness, but it is refreshing when someone can explain it in a way that actually makes sense. Thank you.
That means a lot, Jeff — truly. Thank you. You’re in my prayers.
"God is a consuming fire, and as such, he is dangerous to things combustible. His presence may energize that which is SUBSTANTIAL, like iron, but to that which is wood, hay, or stubble, he consumes."
Oof. Thank you!
I've been thinking more about The Great Divorce since talking about it at book club and comparing the concepts of 'significance' and 'substantiality.' I have been trained by the world to pursue significance but I know such a pursuit will only lead to an insubstantial, ghostly state that cannot endure, let alone "enjoy the pleasure and delight of the paradise of divine vision." I'm becoming more and more aware and grateful for a level of divine hiddenness that allows for and beckons me toward the way of the Solid Saints. On my best days I'd rather be the REAL deal, than a big deal.
I also just love the image of Christ as a flaming hot sword of Divine Energy piercing Hades, spreading the good infection of life. I sure hope that even there in Hades there is a chance of repentance. It seems like St John of Damascus in OF doesn't think so? ...Remembering our reading recently for class in chapter 18, "One also needs to know that what death is for human beings, the fall is for the angels. For after the fall there is no repentance for them, just as there is no repentance for human beings after death."
Thank you for your kind remarks, Nicole. I’m glad you’ve enjoyed the series — and the first meeting of the book club. On John of Damascus’ remark (and others like it), I discuss that tension a bit in my post, Carried by the Faith of Others.