A book to help Christian readers awaken their hearts to a deepened spiritual perception of the world by reclaiming the practices of our Wisdom tradition. The author introduces the idea of a three-centered knowing: a way of looking at the world with the heart (this mystical, spiritual vision) in conjunction with the mind (rational) and body (physical). The goal is to see beyond the physical and rational aspects of our selfhood and to the inner quality of aliveness that the mind alone cannot perceive. This depth of perception gives us a grounded, sustaining vision for our life's purpose and meaning, and helps us to sacrifice the artificial (and therefore limiting) parts of ourselves and yield to the wholeness of the divine will. With vivid stories and examples, the author illustrates spiritual concepts of vision, sacrifice, and transformation, In a final chapter, she provides tools, ideas, and practical advice for developing Wisdom practices and nurturing visionary seeing. Most books on this kind of mystical spiritual vision are either based on personal experience, or new-age philosophies, or come from Jewish, Sufi, or Buddhist mystical traditions. Where Our True Heart Lies is the only book to locate the ancient and precise Wisdom tradition firmly within the Christian heritage and helps Christians see how it fits within their theology.
Practitioners of Centering Prayer are known for the great enthusiasm they bring to the practice of this ancient discipline. Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening is a complete guidebook for all who wish to know the practice of Centering Prayer. Cynthia Bourgeault goes further than offering an introduction, however. She examines how the practice is related to the classic tradition of Christian contemplation, looks at the distinct nuances of its method, and explores its revolutionary potential to transform Christian life. The book encourages dialogue between Centering Prayer enthusiasts and those classic institutions of Christian nurture-churches, seminaries, and schools of theology-that have yet to accept real ownership of the practice and its potential.
