"...the greatest spiritual danger for our times is the separation of Jesus from the church." (p. 143)
As I write this response, Alan Jackson is singing "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus," in the background. The text says, "Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in his wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow stangely dim in the light of his glory and grace." It is one of my wife's favorite hymns, and mine as well. It is a powerful text that calls the believer to focus on Jesus, for in doing so, everything else finds its proper place. Nouwen's concerns raised in the above quote are a reminder to the church to keep Jesus at the heart of its identity and purpose. Amidst the distractions and challenges that face the modern church, none poses a greater threat than taking our eyes off of Jesus. As Nouwen asserts, "Without Jesus there can be no church." Amen.
JKA
Another heart phrase: Nouwen says "What counts is ... to listen with an attentive heart". I would add: listening with an intentional heart is the only way I can stay focused, obedient & not yield to distractions. The Eucharist, church holidays and the liturgies are ways I can intentionally re-focus within the church setting, when life is too crazy-busy. ~ Pam
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