Distraction serves a purpose. Like gargoyles guarding the roofline of a cathedral, distractions first serve to ward off those who lack proper motivation. In an age when people claim to be ‘spiritual, not religious’–not really knowing what they mean by either-lack of proper motivation is common.

We must long for truth, freedom, loving communion with the silent depths of God. In the strange way that common sense is not very common, many people would rather win an argument than know liberating truth or would rather feel safe than discover what it means to live in freedom under grace (Rom 6:14).

If we do not want truth, freedom, God, distractions will cause the door to appear closed.

Into the Silent Land, The Practice of Contemplation by Martin Laird

DLT 2006