Not Confusing Ends with Means
The endpoint for the Christian—one who follows Jesus of Nazareth—is to imitate him in bringing God’s kingdom to earth through loving God and all...
Can I Be in Consolation and Desolation at the Same Time?
Briefly stated, consolation is a state in which a person is growing in faith, hope, and love. Desolation is a state in which a...
Seagulls as an Image of the Evil Spirit
I like to watch seagulls as they glide across the sky, but as with many of God’s creatures, we can have negative interactions with...
Decision Making
We are constantly making decisions, every day, all day: what to eat for breakfast, what to wear, whether to add an umbrella to all...
Consolation and Desolation Whiplash
I used to think that desolation was a state one entered for a long period of time, like Mother Teresa experiencing years of dry...
Hooked by a Choice
I’ve played a video game where you get points for hooking all kinds of fish. Accidentally catch the old shoe or tin can and...
Autumn Stirs Interior Reflection
Autumn brings with it changes in weather, sending many of us indoors more regularly. We experience bright, sunny days that are quickly followed by...
Praying Through the Storms of Life
Sometimes we feel God’s presence and closeness and may even feel favored or gifted by God. During these times, we may see all of...
Staying Curious
In his ministry, Jesus often asks others what they want. For example, he asks the blind Bartimaeus, “What do you want me to do...
Trust and Freedom
Jesus’ instruction to pray to God, “thy will be done” is an essential part of Christian practice. Many saints, like Ignatius, have asked God...