Nature & Grace
From Thomas a Kempis, The Imitation of Christ (Penguin Classics) , ch 54:
“Nature indeed is wily and betrays many through its deceits and crafty ways, and has always self as its end. Nature always looks to its own advantage, considering what gain it can derive from another. But grace is not concerned with its own profit, but with what may benefit others. Nature is greedy and gladly takes rather than gives, and clings possessively to private possessions. But grace is kind and unselfish, avoids self-interest, is content with little, and rightly judges that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Grace seeks comfort only in God, finding delight in the Sovereign Good beyond all things visible.”
Sounds like Terrence Malick. Or maybe Terrence sounds like Thomas.
(Thanks to Stephen Ley for making this connection for me.)
Peter Leithart
Peter J. Leithart is President of Theopolis Institute. He is the author of numerous books on theology, literature, and culture, including Theopolitan, Defending Constantine, and Baptized Body.
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