Monthly Archives: April 2007

“In the pre-modern world and now again in the postmodern world which we live, Christian faith is being presented once again, however; not as mere ideas to be defended by reason or science but as a story to be embodied, that is, to be lived.” (Embrace p.202)

“The fathers stress the Pauline admonition to ‘press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me’ (Phil. 3:14). There must be no stopping in the pursuit of virtue. ‘Prepare yourself for continual labor; struggle and effort, allowing no thought of alleviation.’ Never for a moment imagine that ‘the virtue is already gained in its perfection.’ (Ibid., 177)
Also, do not assume that you can ascend to your goal quickly. ‘Make gradual progress your rule, moving from below upwards.'” (Embrace p. 192)

“The self-love of narcisism is one of the greatest problems we face today. Obviously personal care and appropriate personal attention to self is no sin. But popular culture, especially the media, constantly promotes self-interest. ‘it’s all about me’ is a slogan the Christian needs to replace with, ‘It’s all about God.'” (Embrace p. 189)

“God’s family pursues God’s purposes for the world and participates in God’s vision in the world by showing the world what a community of people in union with God is to look like.” (Embrace p.163)

“Christian spirituality, on the other hand, begins with the day-by-day repentance, a continuous change that takes place in the mind, the heart, and the will. Repentance is to hear God’s story…every day.” (Embrace p. 151)

“Peter sets forth the three steps it takes to consciously recieve God’s embrace: (1) repent, (2) be baptized for the forgiveness of sins, and (3) recieve the gift of the Holy Spirit. Here, then, is how a person responds to the passionate embrace of God.” (Embrace p. 147)