The Grace of Passive Contemplation

Richard Rohr's assertion that "You can't really 'do' contemplation; rather, contemplation is done to you" invites us to reconsider our approach to spiritual practice. This statement suggests that contemplation is not merely an activity we engage in, but rather a state of being that unfolds within us, often beyond our conscious control. The stakes are high; in a world that prizes action and productivity, Rohr's words challenge us to embrace a more receptive and passive stance toward our spiritual lives, opening ourselves to the transformative grace that contemplation offers.

In a culture that often equates worth with achievement, Rohr's insight serves as a gentle reminder that true spiritual depth cannot be manufactured or forced. Instead, it is a gift that emerges when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable and open to the divine presence. This perspective shifts the focus from striving to surrendering, from doing to being, and invites us to trust in the process of grace that is at work in our lives, often in ways we cannot foresee or control.

The image / the metaphor

At the heart of Rohr's quote lies a rich metaphor that evokes the imagery of a river flowing effortlessly, carrying us along its current. The verbs "do" and "done" suggest a dynamic interplay between the self and the divine, where the act of contemplation is not something we can grasp or manipulate. Instead, it is a process that unfolds organically, much like the seasons change or a flower blooms. This imagery evokes a sense of surrender, where we are invited to let go of our need for control and allow the experience of contemplation to wash over us.

Diving deeper into this metaphor, we can envision contemplation as a gentle tide that ebbs and flows, sometimes drawing us into its depths and at other times leaving us on the shore, merely observing. This ebb and flow reflects the nature of grace itself—an unpredictable yet profoundly nurturing force that shapes our spiritual journey. In this light, contemplation becomes less about our efforts and more about our willingness to be present, to be still, and to receive the gifts that arise from a deeper connection with the divine.

In the speaker's tradition

Richard Rohr's perspective is deeply rooted in the tradition of contemplative Christianity, which emphasizes the importance of inner stillness and the transformative power of grace. Concepts such as kenosis—the self-emptying of one's will—resonate with Rohr's assertion, as they highlight the necessity of relinquishing control to experience the fullness of divine presence. This tradition also echoes themes found in other spiritual paths, such as bhakti in Hinduism, which emphasizes devotion and surrender to the divine, or the concept of sunyata in Buddhism, which points to the emptiness that allows for profound insight and awakening.

In his book, "The Naked Now," Rohr draws upon the teachings of mystics like Meister Eckhart and Teresa of Avila, who understood contemplation as a divine gift rather than a human achievement. Their writings reflect a deep awareness of the paradox inherent in spiritual practice: that the more we strive to attain spiritual insight, the more elusive it becomes. Instead, they invite us to embrace a contemplative stance that allows grace to work within us, transforming our hearts and minds in ways that are often beyond our comprehension.

Living the teaching

Consider a modern scenario where this teaching can be applied: a busy professional overwhelmed by the demands of work and life. In the midst of deadlines and responsibilities, the individual feels a longing for deeper connection and peace. By recognizing that contemplation is not an additional task to be completed but rather a state of receptivity, this person can carve out moments of stillness throughout the day—perhaps during a lunch break or a quiet evening at home. In these moments, rather than striving to "achieve" contemplation, they can simply sit in silence, breathe deeply, and allow the experience to unfold naturally.

Another application of this teaching might arise in the context of a strained relationship. When faced with conflict, it is easy to become reactive, trying to "fix" the situation through conversation or action. However, Rohr's insight encourages us to step back and embrace a contemplative approach. By taking time to sit in silence and reflect on our feelings and the other person's perspective, we create space for grace to enter the situation. This passive engagement can lead to deeper understanding and healing, allowing the relationship to transform in ways we might not have anticipated.

A reflection

As we contemplate Rohr's profound statement, we are invited to consider the ways in which we might be resisting the grace of contemplation in our lives. Are there areas where we feel the need to control or achieve, rather than simply being present? In what ways can we cultivate a more receptive heart, allowing contemplation to be done to us rather than trying to "do" it ourselves? As you reflect on these questions, may you find the stillness and grace that await you in the depths of your own being.