Can we be ‘saintly’?
Have you ever spent time with someone you would describe as ‘saintly’?[^1] I can think of a few. They are the kind of people I aspire to be. They give me a glimpse of a more fully-developed Christlikeness and draw me forward with hope that, by the Spirit’s transformative strength, I can become more than I am.
What do you saintly people look like? I read the following list of characteristics in The Virgin Eye, by Robin Daniels (p. 378).
- Loyalty in obeying God‘s Will
- Balance and a blend of action and quietness
- Simplicity
- They are wide-seeing, involved yet detached
- No hint or smirk of self-parading
- Joy in loving
The key thing that strikes me here is balance. We need fullness, but not excess. Wholeheartedness and humility. Passion and moderation. It is as if saintly people have one foot on earth and the other in heaven. They remind me of Paul, who said,
“For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labour for me; and I do not know which I prefer. I am hard pressed between the two: my desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better; but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. Since I am convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in faith, so that I may share abundantly in your boasting in Christ Jesus when I come to you again.” Philippians 1.21-26
Saintly people are fully invested in this life, yet not attached, fully immersed in the next life, yet not completely there.
What do you think? How can we grow into this maturity?
I’d love to know your thoughts.
Your brother, Malcolm
[^1]: I’m using the term here in a poetic sense. All Christians are ‘saints’ in the biblical sense, (Philippians 1.1). We’re all holy.
