As In A Mirror

Anthony Lilles

"The theological understanding of prayer we are looking for is found not only in truths proposed by the faith, but above all is glimpsed at as something borne up by them, like a reflection. Sacred doctrine, prayerfully considered, allows us to glimpse God, as in a mirror, so that the substance of the truth we believe might pierce our hearts."

Hidden Mountain, Secret Garden: A Theological Contemplation of Prayer, pg 17

(In a week of several long quotes, this one is offered because, though not long, it is deep. I have experienced what I believe the writer means by God being 'borne up...like a reflection' on sacred doctrine. Mystical truths are embedded in doctrine and tradition, and only glimpsed by those who commit themselves to that path and carried beyond their own ideas.)