“Live your life as if nothing is a miracle,
or everything is a miracle.”
– Albert Einstein
Contemplation is a receptive practice; we make ourselves available for grace to break in; we open ourselves to listen and ponder.
In photography, we “take” pictures. Our culture prioritizes taking time, taking what is ours, and taking a break. However, what we are doing is actually “receiving” (rather than taking) the gifts around us, to be present enough so that, when the photographic moment arrives, we are able to receive it fully.
When we are receptive, we let go of our agendas and expectations. We allow ourselves to see beneath preconceived ideas. Rather than going after what we want in life, we cultivate a contentment with what actually is.
Similarly, instead of merely observing life, we stay awake and alert, participating fully in its messiness and we keep our eyes open for the holy presence in our midst. For indeed, an etymology of receive is: to obtain one’s reward.
Colossians 1:17 “He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together.”
