“LIFT up thine heart unto God with a meek stirring of love; and mean Himself, and none of His goods,” Cloud of Unknowing.
The Cloud of Unknowing is a classic of Christian mysticism. Written, it is supposed, in the later half of the 14th century by an unknown monastic, the work is one of guidance for those seeking spiritual counsel in contemplative prayer in late medieval monasticism. I’ve read it several times, always struggling with the author’s most basic meanings.
There’s been so much for so long: changes in healthcare, always, the order of the day; obligations ending and beginning; lots and lots of really, really hurting, broken people; good friends battling horrible illnesses and grieving sad, sad losses; sorrows and anxieties, uncertainties and unknowns each one reminding me….
I think I might be slowly, very slowly finely, prayerfully getting it.
I know nothing.
I’m getting OK with that.
Better, I’m finding the notion peace provoking, meekly stirring in my heart love. Love for God and not for the gifts or things of God, all of which are transitory. Not for the suffering and grief which can provoke either righteous anger with or deepest longing for God.
No, I find my heart in silent prayer lifting meekly in love for God alone. Amen.
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