Other worldly

I'm not big on conferences, partially because of an irrational, peculiar life approach of mine, but also because . . .

Conferences on the spiritual life are wonderful - occasionally. I think very occasionally. They do not provide the substance for a life of obedient faith. They contribute almost nothing, maybe even less than nothing, to a life of spiritual maturity. . . . When you next feel the need for some outside encouragement and refreshment, you would do better to book a three day vacation in Hawaii. Lie on the beach and soak in creation.

The reason is that the Christian life is thoroughly organic - the Holy Spirit grows the spiritual life in you, forms Christ's life in you, in the particular conditions in which you live - Minnesota weather, rural culture, estranged wives, stand-offish children, uncomfortable income, and a still uncomfortable Lutheran liturgy.

E.H. Peterson, The Wisdom of Each Other