The Real Truth about Abiding...
I think and write a lot about the idea or discipline of abiding. I like that word because it speaks of faithfully “remaining” and “dwelling ” with something or someone. I struggle the most to “abide” in the midst of my ordinary routines and chores — making one more meal, washing one more dish, commuting to work one more day — these simple acts become burden unless I remember the real truth about abiding.
Abiding isn’t always comfortable - In fact, the deepening of our roots and connections to God, self and others can call us out of our comfort zones and into the deeper waters of faith lived out in the world. Or it can mean staying to offer grace and encouragement when common sense and worldly wisdom wonders why you don’t find an easier way. One who abides doesn’t run away at the first hint of discord or boredom but hangs in there a little longer. This it not to say we abide in those situations that are harmful or downright abusive. In fact, this may require a deeper abiding and faithfulness to our own life to take a step away from harm and onto a path of healing.
Abiding is slow work - It isn’t something we can measure. Just as any relationship takes time to cultivate, so too our relationship with God and self and community may grow or deepen in fits and starts. It takes time to build a history with others. And it requires investments of time, attention, and energy.
Abiding is not limited to silence and solitude - I used to say, “When I go on retreat, or get away for a break, I will have time to “abide,” or be still with myself and with God. Brother Lawrence, a 15th Century Carmelite monk tells a different story of abiding in The Practice of the Presence of God. He says, “The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer, and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees in the blessed sacrament.”
In what ways have you been abiding with God, others, or yourself? What makes it difficult? What makes it worth the devoted commitment? Is it really possible to abide in the midst of our daily chores?
One of the best ways I’ve experienced to practice “abiding” is in a monthly meeting with a spiritual director where we take time to explore God at work in our ordinary life. I’d be honored to explore the possibilities with you. Send me an email me or schedule a complementary session on my home page.
