Experiencing Jesus in an Age of Distraction: John Eldredge
Mar 20, 2025
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In this engaging discussion, John Eldredge, a bestselling author and the president of Wild at Heart ministry, shares insights on deepening one's relationship with Jesus. He explores the challenges of digital distraction and the importance of empathy in spiritual connection. Eldredge introduces the concept of being an 'ordinary mystic,' emphasizing genuine encounters with God over intellectual faith. He also provides practical steps to cultivate spiritual presence, encouraging practices like solitude and contemplative prayer for a more profound relationship with the divine.
John Eldredge emphasizes that technology can hinder spiritual connection, making intentional quiet moments essential for experiencing God more deeply.
The concept of the 'ordinary mystic' highlights that everyone has the potential for profound communion with God through everyday practices.
Deep dives
The Origins of Wild at Heart
The genesis of the book 'Wild at Heart' is rooted in John Eldridge's experiences as a therapist and father. He discovered that many of the issues his male clients faced, such as identity struggles and father wounds, were connected through a universal pursuit of understanding masculinity. At the same time, he was navigating his own childhood trauma and raising three boys, which further fueled his desire to explore these themes. His realization that these struggles resonated widely led him to write and speak about these experiences, ultimately culminating in the book that became a global phenomenon.
The Impact of Technology on Spirituality
John Eldridge highlights the detrimental effects of technology and the internet on spiritual health and mental well-being. While people believe they have instant access to answers and are engaged in a more informed life, this constant distraction often hinders their spiritual connection. He notes that many individuals feel more anxious and disconnected from God despite the vast resources available online. Eldridge argues that to restore a deeper relationship with Jesus, one must learn to quiet their minds and create intentional moments for solitude and reflection away from digital noise.
The Concept of the Ordinary Mystic
The term 'ordinary mystic' encapsulates the idea that all individuals can experience a close and personal relationship with God, not just those with extraordinary experiences. Eldridge emphasizes that this connection is accessible through practices that promote intimacy with Christ rather than mere intellectual assent. He explores how historical figures from Christian mystics to biblical authors have had encounters that demonstrate a living faith, encouraging listeners to seek their own experiences. This perspective underscores that every believer possesses the potential for profound communion with God in their everyday lives.
Practical Steps for Nurturing Spirituality
Eldridge encourages individuals to adopt simple practices that foster a deeper connection with Jesus, such as incorporating moments of pause into their daily routines. He introduces the concept of the One Minute Pause app, which guides users to offload their burdens and intentionally seek God's presence. Eldridge suggests dedicating time each day to relax in solitude, free from distractions, where people can engage their hearts and spirits without the need for structured prayer or reading. By doing so, individuals can cultivate a rich and nourishing relationship with God, gradually returning to their natural state of openness and connection.
John Eldredge is a New York Times bestselling author, counselor, and teacher who has inspired millions to go deeper in their relationship with Jesus. He’s the author of several books including The Sacred Romance, Wild at Heart, and his recently released Experiencing Jesus. Really:Finding Refuge, Strength, and Wonder through Everyday Encounters with God. He is also president of Wild at Heart, a ministry devoted to helping people discover the heart of God, recover their own hearts in God's love, and learn to live in God's kingdom. www.wildatheart.org. Register for the Exiles and Babylon conference: theologyintheraw.com
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