Nouwen and Christianity

[Name of the institute]Nouwen and Christianity

Introduction

Henri Jozef Machiel Nouwen (Nijkerk , January 24 of 1932 - Hilversum - September 21 of 1996) was a Catholic Dutch , theologian , priest and writer , author of 40 books on the spiritual life. He worked at Harvard University , the Yale University and the Theological Seminary of Ontario, Canada . His books have been translated into over 20 languages and sold over 20 million copies. The theme of spiritual direction has evolved so much throughout a long time and also in view of Nouwen. Initially spiritual direction understood as a “manifestation of conscience” between a mature spiritual leader and a newly ordained priest or minister. Subsequently preferred are the expressions as spiritual friendship to refer to this reality. It would be easy to summarize the thought of Nouwen on spiritual direction. According to Noll (2012), the spiritual direction of Nouwen could be presented as a case brought by a person seeking relationship, spiritually speaking, which is another person of mature faith willing to pray and respond with wisdom and understanding to your question about how to live spiritually in a world where the prevailing ambiguity and distraction. It is important to note from the view of Nouwen that the spiritual viewpoint of Nouwen could be applicable to an individual or to a community, and consecutively or not, depending on the questions, needs and interests of the people. In addition to this, the teachings of Nouwen demonstrate three classic spiritual disciplines and practices that are particularly useful in the relationship of spiritual direction, including the discipline of the heart, b) the discipline book, and c) the discipline of the church or faith community.

Discussion

The discipline of the heart involves introspection and contemplative prayer by which we begin to see God in the heart. Looking for God in the Book is the discipline by which we look to God to God. A mature spiritual director helps us achieve our commitment to the Word of God is honored and regular, and adds the perspective of community interpreting. The third discipline for spiritual guidance is the discipline of the church or faith community. This requires being in relationship with God's people, witnessing the active presence of God in history and in the community. This idea is widely confirming the beliefs that I have.

According to Stott (2012), the development of the perspective of spirituality of Nouwen is observed to be marked by a wise and captivating style. It has always been very significant in my point of view as through the teachings of Nouwen that Trust in God will guide people and play a very important role in developing the faith of people in God. After all, it is God's Spirit who guides and directs really, the director is simply there to be a friend of God and yours in the process.

Works by Nouwen demonstrate the anthologies and on the spiritual life. I believe, these works have always been the highlighting factor of the teachings ...