Calvary Episcopal Church
THE CHRONICLE
The Second Sunday After the Epiphany
January 16, 2000
Volume 45, No. 3

Just a Closer Walk with Thee, O Lord
O, My God, I thank thee that thou hast kindled in me a desire and a longing for a closer walk with thee. I would be thy servant, a very special servant of thine. Help me to live so close to thee and learn so well of thee that I may love thee with my whole heart and mind and soul and strength, to the glory of my Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

I wish to give thanks to God for bringing Allison and me to our new church family and home, Calvary Church. One does not have to be in this place long to know that the Spirit of God has come down to rest upon Calvary. To be a part of such a unique and wonderful parish is truly a blessing unto itself. Allison and I both give thanks to God for you and your wonderful ministry to the people of Memphis and God's Kingdom universal.

The words from the above collect come from a delightful piece of Christian literature titled, The Cloud of the Unknowing. The Cloud of the Unknowing was written about the middle of the fourteenth century by an English monk. This piece of work was written to serve as a guide to developing a spiritual relationship with the Lord. The author outlines four degrees and forms of Christian living that we all undergo during our pilgrimage in the Faith. They are the Common, Special, Singular and Perfect. As one ascends the "ladder" of degrees, one becomes closer and closer to perfection in God. Of course, perfection comes only after we enter into God's Heavenly Kingdom. Nevertheless, in our lives, we strive for spiritual perfection.

My prayer is that we will continue to strive for spiritual perfection as we seek a closer and dearer relationship with the Living God.

Peace,
~ Allen F. Robinson+

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