In the realm of spirituality, a profound yet often overlooked aspect of prayer exists – the soul’s longings. Although many writings touch upon the desire for God’s presence during worship, the true essence of these longings remains shrouded in mystery. This article aims to shed light on the significance of the soul’s longings in contemplative prayer, drawing wisdom from Tim Foley’s book, Making It Personal.
At the heart of contemplative prayer lies the fervent expression of the soul’s deepest yearnings. It is, in fact, these longings that are believed to be the key to unlocking the transformative power of prayer. According to Foley, expressing the soul’s longings takes precedence over the reception of Divine Love, for it is through these longings and earnest aspirations that the Love of the Divine is summoned.
But what exactly are the soul’s longings, and how can we learn to articulate them during our moments of silent prayer? To understand this, we turn to the writings of Padgett, where he beautifully describes the soul’s yearnings as a unique, soulful endeavor that transcends mere mental desires.
Padgett explains that the pursuit of Divine Love necessitates an intellectual desire and a profound soul-driven supplication. The soul’s longings act as the catalyst for the inflow of Divine Love. The mind, though involved in initiating these longings, cannot bring about the Love’s arrival by itself. Many individuals may possess a surface-level intellectual desire for God’s Love but only succeed in awakening their Natural Love. While a noble start, this natural love falls short of experiencing the profound transformation of possessing Divine Love.
Foley suggests a shift in focus during contemplative prayer. Instead of experiencing and expressing these longings solely in mind, one should endeavor to feel them emanating from the heart region. As many spiritual traditions believe, the human soul resides near the heart. Therefore, redirecting your longings to this area can deepen your connection with the soul’s desires.
Breathing is pivotal in this process, as it also occurs in the heart and soul region. Using your breath as a focal point can remind you that your longings are seated in the heart, not in the mind. Over time, this practice can help you attune to the deepest levels of your soul.
In the messages conveyed by Padgett, the importance of the soul’s longings is emphasized repeatedly. Divine Love, he explains, is distinct from the love bestowed upon humanity at the time of creation. It is not a perfect and completed gift but a waiting treasure accessible through the soul’s earnest longings.
Contemplative prayer is an intellectual exercise and a profound journey of the soul’s longings. When expressed from the depths of the heart, these longings hold the key to experiencing the transformative power of Divine Love. As we delve into the concepts of prayer, let us remember the wisdom shared by Tim Foley, guiding us toward a deeper connection with the Divine through the eloquence of our soul’s longings.