July 13 – The Integration of Contemplation and Action

Gregg’s Reflection

When I first heard the phrase “contemplatives in action,” I wasn’t sure what to make of it. I assumed you had to choose—either you were a person of prayer and stillness, or you were a person of movement and service. But life has shown me that these are not two paths—they are one. In my early years after leaving the business, I found myself slowing down, making more space for silence, and in those quiet hours, I began to notice how the Spirit’s guidance flowed into my daily choices.

There were times I rushed into action without prayer, and the work often felt scattered or ego-driven. Other times, I lingered in silence without stepping forward, and my faith became too inward. But when prayer and action met—when I moved from stillness into service—it was as if God’s energy carried me forward. I wasn’t forcing outcomes; I was joining in something already happening.

I’ve come to believe that contemplation without action can become self-absorption, and action without contemplation can become burnout. But together, they become a way of life that is sustainable, joyful, and deeply aligned with God’s purposes. 

This is why Richard Rohr makes the foundation of the Living School contemplation and action. Jesus modeled this pattern: withdrawing to pray, then returning to heal, teach, and serve. It’s the rhythm that keeps our roots deep and our branches reaching wide.

Scripture

Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:17

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.

Colossians 3:23

Ancient Quotes

The prophet is the mystic in action.

William Ernest Hocking

Modern Quotes

Mysticism involves not just intense forms of contact with God, but also a transformed life. The supreme form of Christian contemplation is a fusion of contemplation and action on a higher level, where one could be active while in contemplation.

Bernard McGinn, Essential Writings of Christian Mysticism, p. 520

Once you are in the right state of consciousness, you can’t help but act in the right way. Contemplation is not opposed to action; it is the foundation of all true action.

Richard Rohr, The Naked Now: Learning to See as the Mystics See, p. 88

Journaling Prompts

• When have you felt your prayer life directly shaping your actions?
  
  
• How can you structure your days so that silence fuels your service?
  
  
• Are there areas of your life where contemplation and action feel disconnected? What might integration look like?

👉 Go deeper into this week’s theme:
Read the full Week 28 Reflection: Mysticism