We all get stuck in habitual patterns that do not serve us in a positive way. The yoga literature refers to these habitual patterns as samskaras, compulsive feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that seem to control our lives. To a lesser or greater extent, we are all under their influence. Abraham, a towering figure within Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, was no different. When he received his call from God he was 70 years old, and in a manner of speaking, still living in his father’s tent and playing video games 24/7. This is the point: on our own, without help from above, we cannot transcend our samskaras; they have too much power over us. Only God’s voice, a higher power, can elevate us out of destructive patterns.
God’s call to Abraham was not a summons into a fanciful life. God told Abraham to leave his familiar, comfortable life behind, but did not exactly tell him where to go. Similarly, many of us only discover our destination once we are there. We have to follow our best intuitions, putting one foot in front of the other. We have to act as if we know where we are headed while remaining focused on God’s promises in reference to the future. When we allow God’s calling to take hold of our will, our feelings and thoughts will eventually fall into place. Secondly, the journey of life is not about our own private enlightenment; Abraham was called to be a father of a nation. Our lives become wondrous and expansive by serving that which is wondrous and expansive. Next, Abraham obeyed God’s voice. He took action. We too have to choose to follow God’s voice and our soul’s promptings. Finally, Abraham loved God! Likewise, we will only choose to follow God’s voice to the extent that we love God. When love is involved, we will do whatever it takes. Reflect on this enlightened insight from Valentin Tomberg:
“The will is an active force; it is not naturally an organ of perception. In order for it to be able to perceive it should not, it must not, become passive, for then it will fall asleep or fade away because its very nature is activity, and ceasing to be active it would cease to be will. No, it should change its center of gravitation, that is, from “my will” to “thy will.” It is the inner act of love alone which can accomplish the change of center that the will uses or around which it gravitates. Instead of gravitating around the center “me,” it can orient itself toward the center “you.” This transformation, effected by love, is what one calls “obedience.”
My Beloved,
Keeper of my life and soul,
Thy will be done.
