“One of the reasons that hiddenness is such an important aspect of the spiritual life is that it keeps us focused on God. In hiddenness we do not receive human acclamation, admiration, support, or encouragement. In hiddenness we have to go to God with our sorrows and joys and trust that God will give us what we most need.
In our society we are inclined to avoid hiddenness. We want to be seen and acknowledged. We want to be useful to others and influence the course of events. But as we become visible and popular, we grow dependent on people and their responses and easily lose touch with God, the true source of our being. Hiddenness is the place of purification. In hiddenness we find our true selves.”
Henri Nouwen (1932-1996) in Bread for the Journey: A Daybook of Wisdom and Faith (New York: HarperCollins, 1997) daily reading for August 14.
On this Lord’s day, consider taking a ten-minute, silent retreat. Remove yourself from people and distraction and ask God this question about yourself: Is my generosity coupled with hiddenness? Listen to the Holy Spirit, assess what you hear in light of the teachings of Scripture, respond obediently, and give thanks for the work of God in your life.