Entering into the Unknown of God

Entering into the Unknown of God

In my most recent article “Contemplative Thoughts” the primary essence presented a superfluous encounter for most readers.  However, some saints, especially St. Gemma Galgani 1878 - 1903 born near Lucca, Italy, whose life was nothing but a total encounter within the realm of her Savior, Jesus Christ.

For her, this relationship was a normal and necessary connection to her Lord.  No-one or nothing would become a challenge for her devotion to God’s presence that she experienced daily until her death in 1903.  

Perhaps this may appear as a requisite of her life and the most holy journey she walked for the short but astounding time she had here.  But this is more than the saintly pure existence she enjoyed; not enjoyment as in earthly pleasure, but the purity of one of God’s lovely creation that all of us should be seeking.

The many different descriptions used in the article about contemplation is not something that can not be followed.  It is more about the internal life that awaits each of us and may take some effort to achieve that saintly realm.  One of the goals St. Gemma set for herself was the level of sainthood.  This profound achievement isn’t a distant dream, it is a necessary choice we can reach no matter the singular position of our soul.  Those who share the Beatific Vision with God are saints.  God’s purpose for each one of us is to share his life and love with us.  

To simplify the question “Can man understand that which is beyond our comprehension”?  I said yes, if we allow our finiteness for a moment to escape us and become absorbed within the infinite presence of Almighty God.”  

This may be the difficult acceptance of many believing that it isn’t for me; just doing the simple activities that most Catholics do out of obedience is enough.  Reaching out just a notch higher than rules take a step back and see yourself following a path one moment at a time; seeking the heart of Jesus and the very rays of grace that pour out on us when we make him the very center of our lives.  Find a means of prayer alone (in addition to family activity) and allow Christ the opportunity to speak to your waiting soul.  Don’t be surprised when you hear the Spirit within challenging your Baptismal promises received during your Confirmation.  Never worry if your decision finds slips in mistakes.  We all do that as we grow in that comprehension of understanding our new role with God.  

Welcome fellow saint-to-be because of your heart connecting with the Heart of Jesus.

Ralph B. Hathaway, 2022 a year to find Jesus deep within us.