Dear ones,
Today we continue the third of the five chapters that outline and unfold Our Spiritual Growth. Welcome again to the ongoing journey into Our Spiritual Growth – as ALWAYS, I continue to be so grateful to be here with you.
In Chapter 23, Sacred Art, we are introduced to another aspect of the WHOLE and Benedict's gift for understanding so fully the needs of the human spirit and the essence of the soul. He realizes that it takes all of life and all of oneself to make it possible to live an ordinary life extraordinarily well. Therefore, he upholds and encourages each of us to surround ourselves with beauty -- God's amazing gift to us. Beauty nourishes the soul, uplifts the spirit and gives us in this life a glimpse of the faith of God. Enjoy this chpater, then and surround yourself with beauty.
Each time you set yourself to begin reading and / or reflecting, I invite you to light a candle or incense.
And chant or recite the song “Peace Before Us” by David Haas, using the following lyrics:
(thank you, Janet, for this link to hear the chant: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pevH0Ez6bms)
Beauty before us, beauty behind us, beauty under our feet
Beauty within us, beauty over us, let all around us be beauty.
Take your time to read Chapter 23: Sacred Art aloud – savor it.
As you are able, let us know what you think:
What is your first reaction to this chapter? What words, images and ideas were meaningful to you? Did it raise any questions? Did anything surprise you? Excite you? Concern you? Move you? Explain.
Does the connection between art and monastic spirituality surprise you? Share your thoughts on this connection.
On the way with you -- Mary Ellen