The Intent of the Clarion Word Classics:
The word “clarion” comes from the Latin word claru or ‘clear’. Our intent with this quarterly series is to make “loud and clear” what is ours in Christ and as children of God (Romans 8:17).
We will share faith writings from key theologians who will strengthen and enrich our spiritual lives and faith walk. This includes such sage theologians and writers such as J.I. Packer, Oswald Chambers, and C.S. Lewis.
We will also introduce contemporary writers who express spiritual answers to the challenges of 21st century living. These include such authors as Priscilla Shirer, Alistair Begg, and Bruce L. Fields.
Clarion Word Classics is intended to make us “think and feel”. It is about how we live our lives and community in “coram Deo”[1].
This Quarter’s Clarion:
The Way of the Heart: Desert Spirituality and Contemporary Ministry By Henri J.M. Nouwen.
Area of focus: Spirituality. Specifically, contemplative[2] living. I think this book, though short in length (94 pages) is best understood in small bite sizes. This will allow you to take a “Selah” moment and reflect on what Nouwen is saying and how it relates to our world, our church, and of course, each of us.
Relevancy: Though published in 1981, the current environment in our nation and world continue to cause major fear and concern as to our well-being. These are shaped by global crises, technological change, social dynamics, and economic uncertainty. All contribute to a noticeable rise in various mental health issues which continue to get worse.
How does Nouwen’s address our 21st century milieu (setting, environment, situation)? There is a general feeling by believers (and nonbelievers) that “something is missing” in their current walk of faith. Something that can’t be satisfied with one more Bible study, workshop, or conference. We want a more intimate relationship with God. We want more of Him!
What do I like about the book?
- Its brevity.
- Though the book was written to ministers and those in pastoral service, every person, in reading this, will find that it also applies to them as they pursue a closer walk with Jesus. That’s where the Holy Spirit does His best work.
- This modern classic (oxymoron) interweaves the solitude, silence, and prayer of the fourth-and fifth-century Egyptian Desert Fathers and Mothers with our contemporary search for an authentic spirituality.
Nothing new under the sun.
Many of the teachings of contemporary spirituality writers[3] have been able to put the principles shared in this book into practices that can be incorporated into our daily life, i.e., the PAUSE principle, use of solitude and silence, meditation techniques, and short prayers.
The key intent of solitude, silence, and prayer is intimacy with God. The mistaken view we currently have of each of these spiritual disciplines has led to our missing the true value of the discipline—namely, to be with God and in His presence. To hear as God speaks to us. To embrace these disciplines as “time for transformation”. To eliminate the things (and people) that interfere with our relationship with God. To become kingdom people—ready to serve humanity. Below are a few observations that will whet our appetite for learning more.
Are you ready?
I have chosen to share excerpts from the PROLOGUE of The Way of the Heart to introduce Nouwen’s thoughts on contemplative living and its value to us navigating 21st century living. I guarantee you will love his writing and the spiritual insights he offers.
[1] Coram Deo is a Latin phrase translated, “in the presence of God.” It has its origin in Christian theology and summarizes the idea of Christian living: in the presence of, under the authority of, to the honor and glory of God. Life is to be lived coram Deo.
[2] “expressing or involving prolonged thought”
[3] John Eldredge, Resilient; Restoring Your Weary Soul in the Turbulent Times; John Piper, A Hunger for God
