True contemplation is illumination and enlightenment of the soul by God. God’s love so penetrates and permeates the being of the contemplative that all desires seem to pale in comparison.  

All that is desired is the mind and will of our God; life becomes centered on God and for God.  

In no sense is this a departure from reality. Awareness and sensibilities become heightened as the constant presence of God renew our passion for life.  Relationships deepen as we are drawn to see others in the embrace of God as well. We are much more open to forgiveness and acceptance as we realize that God, as Jesus taught, accepts and receives all who come. 

Contemplation is not a time alone and apart, but an entering into the life of the Spirit in every moment of daily life. To enter into the mind and will of God is a humbling experience since we realized how freely God has given us love and grace.

It is not only our human tendencies toward sinfulness and selfishness but also our conscious choices that sometimes limit our capacity to love.

When we are able to offer all things even our continuing failures as human beings to God, it is that time at which we are finally ready to accept God’s love in fullness.  

Although we are willing to give up everything to enter into the trust of the loving God in contemplation, we are not oblivious to the tendencies in others and ourselves to control and possess. We enter fully into the world, not seeking a monastic lifestyle, but seeking only the will of God.  

God often calls the contemplative to action and the Holy Spirit provides the guidance and power to fulfill the will of God. Life itself becomes the very process of discerning the movement of the Holy Spirit in our lives.  

Joy is to carry out the will of God amid the realization of boundless love for us.  

Check out Contemplation in Truth and Love: Part 2