The space in between us

Funny how I find myself
In love with you
If I could buy my reasoning
I'd pay to lose
One half won't do - Talk Talk, It's My Life

I am reading a book entitled The Divine Dance: Exploring the Mystery of the Trinity by Richard Rohr and it is proving to be a very good read. The central theme of the book is the recapturing of the doctrine of the Trinity and the impact that should have on our lives as Christ followers. Of course, when we have an incomplete picture of God we are out of balance in our reflection of God's image and our journey of sanctification. With right doctrine comes right living and this has me focusing on the space between the members of the Trinity.

There is no doubt that each one of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Spirit) have power that they can claim as their own. I don't think we need to deny the immutability, omniscience, omnipresence, etc. of any one of them. But, it is their relationship, their love, that adds a whole other inscrutable dimension to his power and glory. 

I can't help but think of the lonely places that Christ was often found as he communed with his Father (Luke 5:16). I cannot even begin to imagine the strength that he received from the love relationship he had with his dad. There is the space (if we can call it that) in between them where this love lived and it was the love and care of the Father that Christ drew strength from. He was always talking about his dad and drew such purpose and resolve from his obedience to and imitation of (John 5:19) the Father. That is more than a vital relationship. It is a life infusing one.

And then what of the Holy Spirit and his proceeding from both the Father and Son (John 14:26 and John 15:26)? The love relationship he has with both Father and Son compels him to obedience to them both. The Spirit has an intellect and will for sure (1 Corinthians 2:11), but willingly and lovingly subjects himself to the Son and Father. What an incredible and complete picture of an all-sufficient God that needs nothing and no one to radiate perfection in every aspect of the experience that we have as humans.

Yes, the space in between the Father, Son, and Spirit does not detract from the glory due each one. But, one half (or one third) won't do. Their love for each other enhances it and illuminates by relationships in light of his image. My relationships must imitate his in ever-increasing measure. They must be more than vital. They must be life-infusing.

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