This morning’s time on the patio garden opened up to a reflection on salvation…on wholeness, that reality which lies at the heart of Biblical/Judeo-Christian understandings of salvation. The monastics and mystics still know this, but it seems that “salvation” has been co-opted. To ask someone if they “are saved” now means (for certain schools of Christian practice) that they are assured of a place in heaven, meaning that their eyes are turned away from the world. Rather, this deep grounding in wholeness should direct our eyes to live more deeply, more authentically, more wholly….here. “Being saved” isn’t about going away somewhere; rather, it’s about being mindful of our call to live lives of wholeness and faithfulness here, where God has given us life.
So, we see this in this beautiful Psalm 25, this image that we are given:
“To you, O Lord, I lift up my
soul.
O my God, in you I trust;
do not let me be put to shame;
do not let my enemies exult
over me.
Do not let those who wait for you
be put to shame;
let them be ashamed who are
wantonly treacherous.
Make me to know your ways,
O Lord;
teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth, and teach
me,
for you are the God of my
salvation;
for you I wait all day long.”
This image of the “God of my salvation,” this image, this realization grounds us as we live our lives. Struggles are not denied. They don’t have to be denied. Instead, they can be lived through, with our eyes and hearts grounded–mindful–of this greater purpose and Divine reality that contains us.
Norman Fischer picks up on this in his interpretation:
“Show me your ways
Teach me your paths
Lead me in your truthfulness
Teach me
For in you I am whole
And on you do I wait
All the day every day.”
And, my understanding of salvation is expanded so much…anxieties are put into their proper place, and maybe we can breathe a bit more…
S+
Thoughts on a Contemplative Reformation 
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