We talk a great deal about physical pain - even emotional. But we never quite talk about "soulish pain," pain that occurs in the core of one's spiritual solar plex, right beneath the underbelly of his gut. There is no greater pain than soulish pain. For it is the soul which carries the spirit, which carries the body. The body exclusive of the soul or spirit is merely a lifeless, totally immobile, non-responsive vessel. It counts for nothing, as the Bible informs. But what does one do when his or her soul is sick - and tired, but not ready to exit this realm? All it simply desires is relief, not a permanent exit. This dilemma is what St. John of the Cross regarded as the, Dark Night of the Soul: An inevitable season in the "God seeker's" life that is most dark and unfulfilling, yet also most rewarding should one endure accordingly.
I believe we don't speak much on the topic because we don't rightfully know how to articulate such void without negative judgment. I mean, how does a Christian claim such truth without negative consequence? We find it difficult to accept the humanity of Christ due to the platform of perfection we have been taught to apply to all that pertains to Christiandom. Yes, Jesus was perfect, in that He did not sin, but He was also clothed in the faulty flesh of humanity, which in and of itself was flawed. He had the DNA of both God and man. Therefore, it is the human side of Christ that we must learn to embrace through fellow humans - without compromise. Not only in Christ - whom we have never seen, but especially within each other - whom we see daily. Yes, Jesus wept. Jesus got angry. Jesus drank [real] wine [not juice]. Jesus was at times sarcastic. Jesus - was human - yet divine. Jesus cried out to God in His greatest agony, questioning God's allegiance, "...Why have Thou forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46).
When the soul aches, I know of no other resolve but prayer and solitude. For this is the very prescription of Christ during His own soul's dilemma. He "stole away" and did fast [and] pray, and was still in sincere solitude and trust of God. But Jesus also sought the companionship of His disciples, who failed him in that hour. He solicited the intercession of His followers, who instead, fell asleep. This teaches us again, the imperfection of humankind, and that some times our trust must be surrendered to the process, however painful. There was no exit for Christ. He had to endure. What are you enduring or ready to surrender to? If you cannot find a safe community, may a safe community find and nurture you back to optimum health.
Note: If you are experiencing mental depression, please consider medical intervention as well. It is our belief that God uses multiple means for wellness. There is no shame in seeking medical treatment in tandem with spiritual care.
I believe we don't speak much on the topic because we don't rightfully know how to articulate such void without negative judgment. I mean, how does a Christian claim such truth without negative consequence? We find it difficult to accept the humanity of Christ due to the platform of perfection we have been taught to apply to all that pertains to Christiandom. Yes, Jesus was perfect, in that He did not sin, but He was also clothed in the faulty flesh of humanity, which in and of itself was flawed. He had the DNA of both God and man. Therefore, it is the human side of Christ that we must learn to embrace through fellow humans - without compromise. Not only in Christ - whom we have never seen, but especially within each other - whom we see daily. Yes, Jesus wept. Jesus got angry. Jesus drank [real] wine [not juice]. Jesus was at times sarcastic. Jesus - was human - yet divine. Jesus cried out to God in His greatest agony, questioning God's allegiance, "...Why have Thou forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46).
When the soul aches, I know of no other resolve but prayer and solitude. For this is the very prescription of Christ during His own soul's dilemma. He "stole away" and did fast [and] pray, and was still in sincere solitude and trust of God. But Jesus also sought the companionship of His disciples, who failed him in that hour. He solicited the intercession of His followers, who instead, fell asleep. This teaches us again, the imperfection of humankind, and that some times our trust must be surrendered to the process, however painful. There was no exit for Christ. He had to endure. What are you enduring or ready to surrender to? If you cannot find a safe community, may a safe community find and nurture you back to optimum health.
Note: If you are experiencing mental depression, please consider medical intervention as well. It is our belief that God uses multiple means for wellness. There is no shame in seeking medical treatment in tandem with spiritual care.