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Deep down we know that we need more than someone telling us everything we'll be OK, that there's no need to take this Jesus thing too seriously. Rather, we want someone to tell us it's hard, and that it's not easy, and they will, at the very least, stand by us as we encounter the cross for ourselves.

Yes, Ronzo -- exactly. And this is what is missing in many churches today. Perhaps that's "unfair," though: I do live in Massachusetts, and the "received public (secular) orthodoxies" are particularly strong here. It's sad to me that the churches -- at least the ones I've been to -- have allowed themselves to be so captured by the "spirit of the age."

Thank you for the book recommendations; I have the Thomas a Kempis already; Merton's remarks as quoted are deepling intriguing, so I will have to buy that book!

Thanks so very much for writing, Ronzo!

I'm not so sure it is the spirit of the age as much as it is the spirit of Massachusetts! Where's Jonathan Edwards when you need him? (Sinners in the hands of an Angry God!!!!) Your state breaks my heart, as I've had some wonderful visits there, and many fine memories. My wife grew up in the New York town of Hudson, kinda in between the Catskills and the Berkshires on the east bank of the river by the same name. Last time we visited her hometown, we crossed over the state line and had a wonderful time exploring Stockbridge, and the Norman Rockwell Museum, and the Hancock Shaker Community all in the western part of Massachusetts.

But I can appreciate how difficult it is when we see our churches becoming the forerunners for the "spirit of the age" rather than the voice that cries out in the wilderness! Often times (about everyday lately...) I consider just opting out of church life entirely, and becoming a suburban hermit. Perhaps that's why I relate so well to the Desert Fathers; I completely and absolutely understand their motivation for wanting to move to the desert...

Thank you for the book recommendations; I have the Thomas a Kempis already; Merton's remarks as quoted are deepling intriguing, so I will have to buy that book!

I think you will really enjoy Merton's "Contemplation in a World of Action." Fascinating book! It's rare to find a work that so expertly speaks about philosophy, theology and pyschology all in one volume. Though Merton was writing in the context of training and equipping novices for the monastic life, his insights into the needs and nature of man, as well as the damage done by the inflexibility and apathy of large, old institutions, is worthwhile reading for anyone.

Also, the book contains what I believe is the single best rational in regards to why there should be monastic communities in the first place. You will find it on page 100. Not a defense of monasticism, but simply a reason for why it is.