One thing I ask from the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.

–Psalm 27:4 NIV84

Contemplation is a close friend of simplicity. In it’s tenderest meaning, contemplation is a loving gaze on Jesus. It is giving Him our long attention, allowing our hearts to be caught up in Him. The thoroughness of His beauty draws us close, no matter our state. Love pours out from him upon us. Joy blooms in our hearts. Hardened, fearful places crack open. Peace comes. We realize hope is in Him alone.

We invite you today to sit with these images. Gaze upon them with whatever openness you find in your heart. Who do you see? Don’t be afraid to wander with Him wherever He may take you. Only put your hand in His and continue to gaze on Him.

You may find the following simple hymn helpful as you turn to look at Jesus.

Mary’s Prayer

You come to me, O mysterious One, as Desire

To my deepest Desire

And I, thus found, am lost

In Your Love

You take from me All I know

except your Love

Calling me beyond my life

Into your darkness

To trust you and you alone

You open my life

As a beggar’s bowl

and I am attentive to what is daily given

such riches

I have not imagined

I offer what is given

the life that flows

through my emptiness

water to the thirsty

food to the hungry

a home to the dispossessed

all because I said yes

to your, first Yes

–Monty Williams, The Gift of Spiritual Intimacy: Following the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius; adapted from Luke 1:46-55