Personal Encounter is the Way

In life, we know the distinction between an author and his works. This is especially true when we've read works by an individual, and then had a chance to meet her. No matter how good the writing, it is never a substitute for the real thing. At its best, it is only hints.

Knowing Jesus is the same. We can read and even memorize scripture. But it can only bring us so close to Jesus. We must learn to know him by personal encounter, through prayer and grace. Erasmo Leiva-Merikakis writes The written Word, even when profoundly meditated upon, can at best bring us to the threshold of the living person of Jesus. Nothing can substitute for this personal encounter, this merging of the horizons of the person of Jesus with my own, this convergence of my and our existence with his, here and now.

Advent is a good time to sit and have a chat with Jesus. As with any relationship, it takes time. Isn't it good to get started?