Ancient Anglican

We are finite and contingent beings. Everything ‘natural’ about us is dependant upon some other source of power not only for its realization but for its very existence.

Deliver us, when we draw near to you, for coldness of heart and wanderings of mind, that with steadfast thoughts and kindled affections, we may worship you in spirit and truth.

If the divine nature is extrinsically imposed us, then within that imposition we cease to exist. What does God accomplish by “saving us” or giving us a divine nature if within that gift, we cease to be who we are?

The book is a collection of six essays where Hart dispels the understanding that orthodox Christianity teaches (or can teach) a two-tier understanding of nature and supernature. Rather, Christianity teaches that nature/supernature or nature/grace are indivisible.

In worship, we move God into the center of our world, and us out of it, thereby fulfilling the greatest of the commandments.

In any discussions about prayer, the question arises about how do we learn to pray. How can we make prayer part of daily life? Rev. Gunn gives us several areas in which we can learn to pray daily.

“Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances.” 1 Thess. 5:16-18.

Rev. Gunn gives us four areas in which we can learn: Bible Reading, Daily Devotionals, Joining a Class, and Reading Books.

“Scripture is like a river again, broad and deep, shallow enough here for the lamb to go wading, but deep enough there for the elephant to swim.” We can never quit learning.

We do not turn to earn God’s love but we turn in order to give thanks and enjoy God’s vast love for us. As John writes, we love others because God first loved us. 1 John 4:19.

The first step in developing a Christian life is simply turning. We need to turn toward God and away from self-centeredness.

Darkness is not explained, but it is defeated. Night is not a riddle to be solved, but a mystery to be endured until it too is overcome by the light. In those dark times, we must always remember the end. It might be Good Friday, but Easter is coming.