A Framework for Faith/Spiritual Vision

Observe the forms and beauties of sensible things, and comprehend the Word of God in them. If you do so, the truth will reveal to you in all such things only he who made them...

  - Eriugena, Homily on John 1.1-14 (Irish, 9th century)

For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made.

  - Romans 1.20

I keep coming back to this theme because I don't want to miss the opportunity, afforded by the arrival of spring, to urge you to add some work of creational theology to your regimen of spiritual disciplines.

Eternal life consists in knowing God and Jesus Christ (Jn. 17.3). But this "knowing" is not merely intellectual. That is, eternal life is not merely a matter of understanding and affirming certain facts or theological ideas, or even of continuing to add to one's store of such facts and ideas in a merely intellectual manner.

"Knowing" as Jesus intends us to "know" is relational, intimate, continuous, and always growing and deepening. To "know" God and Christ in this way is to be in their presence continually and to experience the joy and pleasure which arise from being there (Ps. 16.11). This joy and pleasure fills our lives with hope and creates an impression of confidence, peace, and grace in those who see us (1 Pet. 3.15; Col. 4.6).

Knowing the Lord in this way thus creates many opportunities for explaining the Good News of the Kingdom of God and for encouraging others to know the Lord as well.

So the more aware we can be of the Lord's presence - as He manifests His glory and speaks to us in "the forms and beauties of sensible things," the more we will know joy, pleasure, and power for true Christian living and effective witness.

How might you begin to add some "creational theology" to your regimen of spiritual disciplines? God is speaking through the things He has made, all around you, every day. But we need to take the time to observe, meditate, reflect, and "hear" what the Lord is saying to us. If we will, we will find our sense of His presence and intimacy growing, and our love and gratitude toward Him increasing.

God is speaking. Not only in His Word, but in His world. Oh, friends - let's begin listening, shall we?

Today at The Fellowship

ReVision - We continue our examination of the ethics of moral relativism by considering whether it makes sense to abolish morality all together.

Consider the Lilies - This book can explain why creational theology matters and show you how to begin doing it.

Mentoring - Pastors, we have some openings for men who want personal mentoring in spiritual growth, evangelism training, shepherding, or leading worship. Contact us for more information.

Please consider making a gift to The Fellowship of Ailbe. If you find these letters helpful, we will appreciate your sharing with us so that we can continue expaning our reach to pastors and church leaders. Use the donate button here or at the website or send your gift to The Fellowship of Ailbe, 100 Lamplighter Ct., Hamilton, VA 20158. Thank you very much.

T. M. Moore, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.