NSoC 37: Sharing the Fruits of Contemplation

See Notes on this series...

The title of this chapter is sort of misleading, because the point Merton makes is that contemplation really can't be effectively shared.

As the things of this world fade away, we experience God in contemplation, but this not for ourselves but for others. However, there is a paradox for the contemplative: as much as he desires that others know the joy he's experienced in God, it loses some of it's effectiveness if he tries to talk about it. The possibility of "mistake and error" are almost as great as the benefit of testimony, Merton says. The problem lies in those who feel the need to teach contemplation. Big mistake. Only God can do that. All the contemplative can do is express to others what is available in God.

A big risk in sharing the contemplative experience is that other people might not be receptive to the contemplative's experience or point of view. The contemplative must be careful that he doesn't overstep his bounds and get in the way of God leading someone else into contemplation. He must be a willing vessel but sensitive to God's timing and direction.

Quaff:
What an interesting point of view, as seen by one who's done time in evangelical circles where the entire vocation of man is to open wide and broadcast "what God has done in his life." I've always felt I was to be a disciple first and a witness second, and Merton seems to support this view. I know a few people with the gift of evangelism who would beg to differ, though I'm not sure they or Merton are speaking about the same things.