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Monday, December 9, 2024

What distinctions do I notice in God's presence to me -- in prayer, in nature, in others, in the Eucharist?

The idea of God's "omnipresence," if left to itself: blurs the distinctions, the truth that God is present in each thing, but not necessarily in the same mode; not in a man as in the consecrated bread and wine, nor in a bad man as in a good one, nor in a beast as in a man, nor in a tree as in a beast, nor in inanimate matter as in a tree. 

-- C.S. Lewis, Letters to Malcolm 

Answer
You might experience God's presence in varied and profound ways, each offering a unique connection:

  • In Prayer: Here, you might feel a direct, personal communion with God. This could manifest as a sense of peace, clarity, or even a conviction that you're being heard or guided. The intimacy of this connection might be felt through moments of silence, the recitation of prayers, or during meditative practices where you're actively seeking God's presence.
  • In Nature: The beauty and vastness of nature often reflect God's grandeur and creativity. You might feel His presence in the tranquility of a forest, the majesty of mountains, or the rhythmic sounds of the ocean. This connection can evoke a sense of awe, reminding you of God's omnipresence and the intricate design of creation. Nature can serve as a cathedral where God's voice is heard through the elements.
  • In Others: God's presence can be palpably felt through acts of love, kindness, or community. When you interact with others, especially in moments of genuine care or communal worship, you might see reflections of God's love. This could be through the support you give or receive, in the eyes of someone in need, or in the collective spirit during shared religious practices.
  • In the Eucharist: For you, the Eucharist might be a particularly profound experience of God's presence. Here, the theological belief in the real presence of Christ transforms the act of receiving communion into a deeply personal and sacred encounter. This might be felt as a moment of unity with Christ, a spiritual nourishment, or a reaffirmation of faith and grace.


Each of these experiences, while distinct, might weave together into a tapestry of divine presence in your life, offering different dimensions of understanding and closeness to God. They could vary in intensity and feeling, influenced by your emotional state, the environment, or the specific spiritual practices you engage in.

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