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Darkness Quote by Thomas Merton

“We cannot arrive at the perfect possession of God in this life, and that is why we are travelling and in darkness. But we already possess Him by grace, and therefore in that sense we have arrived and are dwelling in the light. But oh! How far have I to go to find You in Whom I have already arrived!” quote by Thomas Merton
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“We cannot arrive at the perfect possession of God in this life, and that is why we are travelling and in darkness. But we already possess Him by grace, and therefore in that sense we have arrived and are dwelling in the light. But oh! How far have I to go to find You in Whom I have already arrived!”

Thomas Merton

About This Quote

Source Book: The Seven Storey Mountain by Thomas Merton, 1948

Human longing for divine union is paradoxical: we feel both distant and already present with God through grace, creating a spiritual tension.

In simple terms: We feel far from God yet already have Him by grace.

Key Takeaway

Embrace grace while continuing the spiritual journey.

Themes

spirituality faith paradox longing

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

theological inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal prayer
  • meditative practice
  • seeking meaning
  • daily worship

Key Concepts

grace union theology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does recognizing grace change your daily life?
  • What practices help you feel present with the divine?
A Different Perspective

Grace may be felt but not always recognized, leading to doubt.

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