Experiment With Your Spirituality
written by: Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“Even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. ”
Challenging our faith life in new ways helps us experience the divine in expanding ways. 14th and 15th century Roman Catholicism refused to allow laity access to the Bible for fear of misinterpretation, making it easier to control the masses and giving tradition as much or more value than Biblical theology. Protestants have misinterpreted the Scriptures in so many ways that they were more comfortable splintering than remaining united with differing understandings.
Roman Catholic and Protestant denominations have often tried to control the masses with rules and laws that keep them from moving too far afield so they remain within the fold. While regulations and laws frequently benefit the institution and can benefit the faithful, they often have negative, unintended consequences. When we mindlessly accept rituals, routines, and theological concepts unquestioningly, our faith can be easily distracted or, worse, undermined. We are required to own our faith and make it personal as well as corporate.
Yes, but when religious institutions focus on hindering individuality, do we even know how to respond with integrity? First, before you create defensiveness with the institution, begin experimenting with your spiritual life. Interestingly, throughout Roman Catholicism, especially in the most traditionally controlling times, priests and nuns experimented with their spirituality, finding new and dynamic ways of practicing their faith.
Mysticism was a profound response to the often-controlling aspects of religious life. For example, St. John of the Cross in the 16th century chose to be mentored by a Carmelite nun, Teresa of Avila. Teresa helped John articulate his spirituality through poetry and nurtured his understanding of the soul's development. At Teresa's request, John humbly followed a woman's guidance and delayed his entry into a religious order so he could follow her and learn from her. Patriarchy didn't always win! His religious establishment did not embrace his spirituality. The religious authorities accused him in ecclesiastical courts of "disobeying the ordinances" and jailed him in a monastery. Yet he knew faith with integrity and meaning was worthy of temporary suffering. History would prove him right, and his mysticism and that of Teresa of Avila would later be celebrated by the very Church that had previously found them guilty.
We, too, are called to experiment in our faith life. Are you uncomfortable meditating? Perhaps it is a sign that meditating is what will take your faith life to a new level. Maybe you do not enjoy reading the Bible or understand its content. God may call you to face discomfort and read the Bible with a recommended commentary. Embracing your discomfort is often a path to a healthier mind and a more inspired soul. We are never too old to accept new challenges. Your mind and soul will both grow and receive the Spirit's blessing. Challenge yourself today!
