I dread the idea of a church without mystics. I dread the thought that I could live without embracing mysticism to some degree. I believe that Christians are not living fully if they do not embrace mystery as much as they embrace truth. I'm not trying to say we should arrive at a place in which we say all paths lead to God or anything like that because then we'd be neglecting truth. However, scripture shows a God who interacts with his creation in an immensely intimate and powerful way. To not be open to the mystery of God's power and love in relation to his creation would be foolish. To not delve into experiencing the mysterious God of love and truth in various ways, be it living in caves, mental prayer, leaning into anguish, not wearing shoes, or fasting would be to let our relationship with our bridegroom fizzle out. Married couples have to learn ways to communicate to one another for a successful relationship and they have to keep things spicy between them. I think mysticism is one of the ways to keep our relationship with Christ spicy and in good communication.
Teresa of Avila is a mystic I thoroughly enjoy. Thomas Merton is also a wonderful read. I'm reading several of his works right now.
Who are some of your favorite Christian mystics?
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