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The two voices of the spiritual life
One of the most important—and most difficult—questions in the spiritual life is this: How do I recognize the voice of God? In today’s Gospel, Jesus gives us both comfort and challenge. He says,…
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Suscipe: A beautiful prayer when Jesus is silent
I was meeting with a man in the middle of an ugly divorce. All he wanted—desperately—was reconciliation with his wife. Each attempt to reach out, however well-intentioned, was reported as a violation of…
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The Magi’s Wonderful Gift to Me
Following the invitation of Saint Ignatius to enter a scriptural scene using my imagination, I joined the Magi on their journey to Bethlehem. On the eve of the Epiphany, I thought I…
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When discernment needs a new lens
Which is clearer, one or two? The images flashed by on the viewfinder at the eye doctor’s office, accompanied by the question, “Which is clearer?” Sometimes I’d say “one”, sometimes “two”. One occasion,…
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How to name that spiritual ‘funk’
“Is this a dark night, spiritual desolation, or the cross?” That’s a question I asked a person who was going through a tough time. He assumed the burden of caring for his adult…
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When the Holy Trinity Speaks in the Trees
I thought I would share one of my regular prayer practices. It might be something you want to try. I have a colloquy early in the morning with the Holy Trinity. Colloquy is…
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How to begin a relationship with the Holy Trinity
Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus? It's a good question. On the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, a better question might be, “Do you have a relationship with the Holy…
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Mary sees her risen son. I see my mom.
There is a fascinating meditation in the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius: Imagine what it would be like if Jesus appeared to his mother after his resurrection. (#299) Though not recorded in scripture,…
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A lesson from the resurrection lily on the spiritual life
Dotting gardens and landscapes around Western North Carolina are resurrection lilies. They are so named because the leaves appear lush and green in February, resembling daffodils. Unlike daffodils and many other bulbs, the…
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“What happened to the sun?” asked the two year old
Last week, I was at Emerald Isle with my family. In addition to my delight in being with my children and grandchildren and their spouses and partners, I received a neat lesson on…
