Jan 2016 The Road to Daybreak A Spiritual Journey by Henri J M Nouwen

(Continue from) A Spiritual Strategy   More than ever I am aware of the great temptations facing me as I prepare for my journey. On the one hand, I am exited about returning to the United States and Canada, seeing friends, giving talks, counselling people in pain, and being involved again with the "great issues" of the day. On the other hand, I realize how easy it will be to lose touch with Jesus, to become submerged in the countless stimuli coming upon me, and to lose my spiritual balance. It has helped me to express my fears openly and directly and to ask for spiritual support. Being in the world without being of it involves very hard work. It requires a clear vision of what I want to do and how to do it. It requires a deep desire, as well as a strong commitment to live without interruptions in the name of Jesus. I made two concrete promises: to stay close to Jesus by daily prayer and to stay close to my friends by letter and phone. In this way I will be able to remain home even when I travel and to remain in community even when I am alone. Thus, I will be able to think, speak, and act not in my own name, but in the name of Jesus and those who sent me.

- To Be Continued - © Copyright Shalom 2016. All rights reserved.