What is holiness? A Lenten Reflection

Often, usually in a confessional situation or a counselling session or even at a cocktail party or a cookout, a question arises: “How does someone really become holy? What’s holiness all about, really?” So, today, since we are just passed the mid-way point of Lent, let’s take a look at what this “placeless place” is about.

First, to begin getting into holiness it is important to have in your head and heart a sign of what holiness is. You ask yourself what is it that you wish for yourself. You have to have what spiritual writer Don Nichol has described as a “sign.” You need a sign that is going to link you to God. The Muslims turn to the east, toward the face of God. But we can say that wherever you look, if you are aware of your intention, you will find the face of God.

A painting that had its own rebirth a few years ago because of the writings of Fr. Henri Nouwen, is Rembrandt’s “The Return of the Prodigal Son.” Among the reminders to me of God’s presence is that touching scene. It is often described as the gospel within the Gospel. It is a perfect representation of Jesus’ mission, his fulfillment of God’s intention for him.

If that Rembrandt work of art could come alive, if the prodigal son would stand up and face us, what would we see? Most likely a very tired young man. Most likely a young man whose face is lined by the pains of his previous lifestyle. What we would be seeing is the cost of holiness. The cost of holiness! In Little Gidding T.S. Eliot uses a very few words to describe the cost of holiness:

“A condition of complete simplicity
(Costing not less than everything.)”

Eliot shares his soul. Before one comes to the end of life, everything has to go. When that happens, would you be poor? Not at all. What would be left is holiness. It is like the person starting a business: he gives up everything to make it work. Just think of the person who is holy. So often you are dealing with someone who “has all that is needed.” Holiness is the treasure. But it is a treasure that costs “not less than everything.” And what is “everything”? When you stand face-to-face with any one of those demons that keep you from God, when you discover that it is what you must let go, then you know the cost of holiness. Great cost, yes. However, think for a moment: it is also a great freedom.