Week 10: Book Three, Chapters XX–XXX — Consolation, Desolation, and Casting Care on God

1.Chapter XXI contains Thomas's great prayer: 'Grant me, most sweet and loving Jesus, to rest in Thee above every creature... above all hope and promise, above all merit and desire, above all gifts and rewards.' He is describing a rest that lies beyond even spiritual experiences and gifts. Have you ever tasted rest that was not dependent on circumstances, feelings, or outcomes? What was it like?

2.Chapter XXIII offers four practices for 'great peace': doing another's will rather than your own, choosing less rather than more, seeking the lowest place, and praying that God's will be done. Thomas calls this 'a short discourse' that is 'full of meaning.' Which of the four is most countercultural in your current life? Which is most needed?

3.Chapter XXV has Christ say that true peace does not consist in having no adversary, in being in a state of spiritual fervor, or in having things go according to your desire. Instead: 'In offering thyself with all thy heart to the Divine Will... so that thou remain with the same steady countenance in giving of thanks between prosperity and adversity.' Where in your life is your peace most conditional on circumstances going well?