Pray Like One of the Greats

Teresa of Ávila grew up in Spain in the 1500s. Her family was Jewish by background, but had been forced to convert to Christianity. As an 11-year-old, Teresa’s mother died and in her grief, Teresa chose into her own faith in Christ. She became one of the great mystics of the church and a crucial reformer of how religiosity had damaged people.

In one of her books, she wrote this passionate plea to God. Listen in to the raw honesty, the longing, and the intimacy. As God for what it might look like for you to pray with that sincerity.

In the few moments I have left over to enjoy your presence, how could you hide from me, my Beloved? Is this compatible with your compassion? How can your love for me allow this?… Do not put up with this separation a moment longer, my Beloved! I beg you to see how much you are hurting the one who loves you so much! - Teresa of Avila, The Book of My Life