After many recommendations I have started reading Julian of Norwich. Julian was a 14th century anchorite, Christian mystic, and the first woman author of a book in English. I can't decide whether she was crazy or a saint… or both. A friend asks, "Or was she sane and the rest of us are crazy?!"
Instead of reading Julian to gain information, I will be reading her as spiritual invitation, formation rather than information. It has taken me awhile to get here. Julian includes some awkward theology for me. But I'm not reading her to gain information about her theology, as if I am studying 14th century theology. Instead, this will be a triangular conversation between friends: the Spirit, Julian, and me.
Julian's first chapter, where she briefly introduces sixteen visions shown to her, prompts me to consider, what has the Spirit shown me? I can't claim any astonishing revelations beyond the everyday things the Spirit wants to make known to us.
Like prayer. Prayer can be so cliché: pray about it. We are easily confused about prayer. Prayer is about much more than little puppy dog prayers asking for magic tricks from the guy in the sky. Our notion of prayer is prone to be faulty. Prayer, instead of changing things or others, to change me. Prayer to live my life as guided by the Spirit through my everyday life. Prayer as listening. Apply it liberally.
When we listen closely, we'll find the Spirit is constantly calling and revealing to us. Listen. And, like Lady Julian, consider what the Spirit has shown—and is showing—us.
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