Transformed Through Contemplation

We understand that the gospel calls us to be honest and just, not merely nice. The challenge is that justice and honesty are often uncomfortable, especially in a world resistant to both. Our task is to embrace honesty with love and respect even toward those we disagree with. This is not easy, especially for those oppressed for generations. Through prayer and contemplation, we change from the inside—from a power position to the position of vulnerability and solidarity, which gradually changes everything. Prayer and contemplation are essential for us to move beyond the natural desire for retaliation. In contemplation, we recognize our identity as God’s beloved and are transformed. We learn to live from a place of vulnerability, not ego. From this deep inner transformation, we become capable of offering peace and nonviolence to a divided world.

May we be transformed through prayer and contemplation,
moving from power to vulnerability,
so that we can offer peace and justice to a divided world.

(inspired by Richard Rohr, Dancing Standing Still; John Dear, The Nonviolent Life)