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Christianity Quote by Frederick Buechner

“We try so hard as Christians. We think such long thoughts, manipulate such long words, and both listen to and preach such long sermons. Each one of us somewhere, somehow, has known, if only for a moment or so, something of what it is to feel the shattering love of God, and once that has happened…” quote by Frederick Buechner
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““We try so hard as Christians. We think such long thoughts, manipulate such long words, and both listen to and preach such long sermons. Each one of us somewhere, somehow, has known, if only for a moment or so, something of what it is to feel the shattering love of God, and once that has happened, we can never rest easy again for trying somehow to set that love forth not only in words, myriads of words, but in our lives themselves.””

Frederick Buechner

About This Quote

Source Book: The Book of Buechner, 1995

The quote describes the deep, transformative experience of divine love that compels believers to live beyond mere words, integrating that love into daily life.

In simple terms: Divine love reshapes life beyond words.

Key Takeaway

Let love guide actions, not just speech.

Themes

faith love authenticity spirituality

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

spiritual inspirational

When to use this quote

  • preaching
  • personal relationships
  • community service
  • daily decision making

Key Concepts

transformative experience theology embodiment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you embody love without exhausting yourself?
  • What practices keep you grounded?
A Different Perspective

The intensity of such love can lead to burnout if not balanced with self‑care.

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