Category: Spiritual Formation

The following is a beautiful and insightful perspective by a Spiritual Director.

“To be a spiritual friend one must have detachment, discretion, and discernment, with all that prepares for those gifts. Spiritual companionship is a gentle art, demanding a willingness to listen as if one had a third ear attuned to the inner self. It is neither psychotherapy nor is it the sacrament of reconciliation. Sometimes one needs to confront, but far more often the best intervention of the spiritual guide is in parabolic language, nudging the friend into a new way of seeing. The journey belongs to the other and that person’s uniqueness must always be honored.

“The friend of the soul is an instrumental image. Such a person is not to be a “buddy,” but someone who listens, comforts, and supports. He or she is a means, not an end. It is important for me not to think too highly of myself in this relationship, but to stand in awe of what God is doing in the life of the other person. Often this requires me to get out of the way. When in ignorance I have nothing to say, I must remain silent.” –from Spirituality for Ministry by Urban T. Holmes III

My heart is more likely to hear the inner voice of God than is my head. That’s a new thought to me. Deep within my heart is a God “desire” that has been disappointed by all the false voices that came “calling” to me over the years – yet my heart still desires to hear the voice of God.

God comes calling to my soul with His invitation. He extends His hand to me. The look in His eyes tells me He hasn’t forgotten. He remembers the part in “His Play” He planned for me. And amazingly, so does my soul – its creator, designer, and most of all, friend.

The stage was set for me. The moment for my appearance came. In a single moment, all eyes of the divine universe acknowledged my arrival and my purpose. And they rejoiced.

I belong in the role. He knew it. I now know it. And others will know it.

So here I am talking, sharing, dining, laughing, and crying with joy – with Him. His essence sweeps over me. Then He puts his finger to my lips to silence my racing heart.

Quietly He speaks. “There is so much more I’ve written for you in “My Story.” The Divine Play is not just earthbound. The stage shifts to eternity and He gives me just a glimpse of the storyline. And then He turns the page….

I am continuing to explore the relationship between spiritual formation and coaching. Currently I am reading a book.