We remain free, however, to listen to God's communication…
““We remain free, however, to listen to God's communication or not to listen, and free to respond or not to respond to what we hear. When we speak of contemplative prayer, we are speaking at the same time of awareness of this communication by God and of a willingness to listen and respond. Conscious relationship begins when I choose to listen to or to look at what the other is doing. After I have made this choice, I then freely decide whether to respond or not. Thus, by contemplative prayer we mean the conscious willingness and desire to look at and listen to God as God wishes to be for me and to respond. I may accept or reject God's initiative. in either case I have responded. When this process occurs, the person has the 'foodstuff' for beginning spiritual direction." (p. 34””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Contemplative prayer is a conscious choice to listen to God’s communication and decide whether to respond, shaping a relationship based on awareness and willingness.
In simple terms: Choosing to listen and respond to God creates a spiritual relationship.
Key Takeaway
Practice mindful listening and intentional response.
Themes
spirituality
contemplation
choice
relationship
Mood
reflective
calm
Type
theological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal prayer
- spiritual direction
- daily reflection
- decision making
Key Concepts
free will
divine communication
mindfulness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your willingness to listen shape your spiritual life?
- What prevents you from responding?
A Different Perspective
May become passive or overly intellectual without genuine feeling.