Continuous Formation
We embrace a Life of Transformation.
If you start the smallest project (whether corporate, cooking, or craft—the context doesn’t matter!) without the end in sight, chaos invariably is the result. That’s why this order wants to focus on our ultimate goal: conformity to Christ’s image. Until that happens, we should work as hard as we can to be like him.
This idea of participating in our sanctification is thoroughly biblical. Jesus commands us to be like him and do his work—and we have further examples in the apostles, heroes of the early church, who say things like, “I beat my body and make it my slave” and “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling.”
This continual, ongoing renovation of our character is not always a pretty picture. Our lives and personalities resemble trash-strewn construction sites more than shining skyscrapers. But we know we’re destined to be built up perfectly into Christ-likeness—and that our “glorification” is assured—so we consider the interim as precious time to be invested. The grace Jesus uses to save us frees us up to work hard.
This order is committed to keeping this vision central. One thing we do to help make this happen is to sign a covenant. Now obviously, autographing a piece of paper won’t make us more like Jesus, but formalizing a commitment to pursue Christ-likeness—knowing that it will mean prolonged struggle and sacrifice—gives momentum to our good intentions. It reminds us what the shape of our life is actually intended to be. A vision of character formed and personality perfected—all defects mended, all wounds healed—to the glory of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—that’s a goal awesome enough to get you out of bed in the morning.
At this point you’re probably thinking, “That sounds great, but how does it happen? How do I go about trying to be more like Jesus in the middle of my oh-so- normal life?” Well, clearly it has to happen through grace, rather than legalistic self-exertion. But at the same time, you’ll need a plan. (That’s the paradox of spiritual discipline.) We only grow because of the Holy Spirit’s work inside us. But his work advances when we humbly cooperate.
To get an idea of what such a plan looks like, scan the Sacred Rhythm page. Then maybe you’ll want to check the blog for more details. The main gist of this Order is that by working together, we can help each other adopt sustainable plans, or “rules,” that will help us become like Jesus.