REFLECT
When I was a student at the United Theological
College of the West Indies (UTCWI), otherwise called the “Holy Woods”, there
was a common saying—“Observe and Reflect”. This was used frequently when
we had some questions about many matters that we did not understand; matters
that were “too high” for us. The phrase annoyed me many times until I found
myself falling in the tradition of using it. The phrase itself would later find
deep roots in my own life as I experience the vicissitudes of our existential
realities. The word Reflect has become front and centre, not only as I
grapple with the existential nature of life, but also with ineffable aspects of
life.
I find
that when I am faced with the cut and thrust of daily life, coupled with the
inner and less tangible fighting and fears, the only way to put things into
perspective is to Reflect on various experiences. One of the
meanings of the word Reflect, is to “cast back or bend back” or “to
think deeply and carefully.” When I Reflect, I am able to see things
clearer, not necessarily optically, but through the visions of the heart. When
I Reflect, my soul beholds things that the mind cannot fathom or tongue
dear to speak. When I Reflect, I get a glimpse of the ineffable, which brings
peace and calm and sometimes bewilderment to be honest. This does not mean that
the existential realities necessarily change, but my soul sees it in the “light
of God’s glory and power”. So, when I Reflect, I see myself better, I
learn, I grow, I repent, I see and experience grace—the Grace of God which
attends me every day; sinful though I may be.
I, therefore, continue to Reflect, because it provides perspective—not mine, but God’s. I continue to Reflect, because through it I get a chance to hear and listen to the word God is speaking to me. It is not always a word I want to hear, but the word I need to hear. I continue to Reflect, because through reflection God helps me to march on through the torrents of life. I will continue to Reflect, because through it I am assured that “God is our refuge and strength a very present help in trouble”.
I encourage you therefore, to also Reflect, so that you may behold the ineffable presence of God in our existential walk, until we come to the ineffable joys of God in all its fullness.
God bless you.
Garfield