In this episode, Jeff and Carissa discuss the ancient contemplative tradition of our faith and the three stages of our spiritual journey. Although these stages are not necessarily linear, the first stage often lasts for the first several years of our walk with God, and for some people, it can last their entire lives. The second stage is where we truly understand what contemplation means. It’s a prayerful state of rest and passivity on our part when God bypasses our thoughts and emotions and speaks to us in deeper places than either of them can go. The final stage is a perfect union with God. To reach perfection on this side of the grave, one must be able to share Christ’s pain and glory and endure a dark night of the soul and spirit.
About the Author: Carissa
For over 20 years, Carissa has been helping people grow in one capacity or another—as students, athletes, disciples, or leaders. She’s passionate about awakening others to the presence of God and incorporating emotional healing and relational growth into the discipleship process. Carissa, an ordained minister and board-certified pastoral counselor, oversees the Reset Retreats, Reset Together, and personalized Coaching and Intensives. She holds an M.A.E. from Olivet Nazarene University and Graduate Certificates in Counseling and Executive Coaching and Consulting from the Townsend Institute at CUI.