Christian, You will be a mystic or you will not be
I once heard the best definition of being a mystic: Mysticism is when everything on my way "joins me" with God.
The eminent theologian of the 20th Century, Karl Rahner said: A Christian of the 21st Century will either be a mystic or will not be at all. He proved to be a good prophet. Christianity today is based on mystics, and where they are lacking true living, Christianity is lacking.
The expression "mystic" is associated with something extremely exclusive, reserved for such a small group of people that we strike ourselves off the list of "chosen ones" destined for this exceptional state. However, if we take Karl Rahner's words seriously, we come to the conclusion that this reality is available to everyone. There is no other option for the Christian life. In Christianity there are no castes, there are no degrees of initiation or privileged groups towards God. In Christ, we all have access to the Father, as Saint Paul writes.
Who, then, is a mystic? A mystic is not someone who experiences constant ecstasies and visions, but one who walks in God's presence. Who has fallen in love with God to such an extent that they do not part with Him even for a moment, regardless of whether they are on their knees in front of the Blessed Sacrament, whether they are scrubbing the kitchen floor or putting their child to sleep. Love is what matters. Supernatural experiences are only a "side effect" of this love between man and God; a transforming, purifying and sanctifying love.
Mysticism is a deep, natural relationship with God. Seeking His Presence. Being in friendship with Him. Not from occasion to occasion. From ecstasy to ecstasy. From retreat to retreat. We are to breathe God all the time as we breathe air. You breathe in order to live, not sporadically, from time to time, but continuously. It should be similar with our spiritual life. Mystical life is breathing in God's presence. And the point is not to run away from life, to fly away from reality, but to keep our feet firmly on the ground while being immersed in God. The point is not to find God in the things of this world, but to find the things of this world in God.
Saint John Paul II said: The greatest mystical experience is meeting Christ in the Eucharist. It is impossible to go deeper into God's presence – which permeates us whole. We then become a living monstrance. Everyone can kneel in front of us and worship God hidden in us.
Until Tomorrow
fr. george