“Standing in the stream of providence with no pants.”
Have you ever felt spiritually “vulnerable”? Like you’re standing in the stream of providence with no pants? I’m beginning to believe that in order to become spiritually mature beings it is this muscle movement, of practicing “spiritual vulnerability,” that is the most important to our spiritual regeneration.
What are some examples of being spiritually vulnerable? Well, it’s likely different for everyone but in general I believe we make ourselves spiritually vulnerable every time we show up with total honesty, with ourselves, with God, and with the people in our lives about where we are at, what we believe, who we think we are, what we want, and then leaving the outcome of all of this to God.
Phew…. it makes me a little dizzy thinking about it.
To be vulnerable is to be exposed. The dictionary definition of vulnerability is to not only be exposed, but exposed to possible attack or injury. It points first to the dangers of this state, because in all honesty there are dangers. If there weren’t it wouldn’t be hard! It is hard because when we leave ourselves open we can be hurt, we can be criticized, we can be taken to places we may feel afraid to go… AND it is in this state of openness, honesty, and trust where we can also be led to the most exciting, most nourishing and most heavenly new opportunities we could never imagine.
So what shall we choose?
To be spiritually vulnerable will likely be often an uncomfortable and overwhelming ride. Much more intense than any amusement park roller coaster, because this ride won’t necessarily let you off at the cotton candy booth. But perhaps it will bring us all some place much sweeter.
April 30 2008 02:41 pm | Spiritual Struggle
