Sobornost

From "Sobornost" by Catherine Doherty

Often under the guise of Christianity, people begin to break up sobornost*. They do it very simply: by rationalizing Christ's teachings, selecting only the parts that satisfy them. Obedience is not in them, neither in reality nor in desire. They have forgotten the Christ who was "obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." So they tear apart his teachings.

[edit]

Yes, this is the truly "great obstacle" to unity: when the mind of man challenges the mind of God, refusing obedience, refusing submission, refusing entry into the reality which is Christ. This is the most painful, the most tragic picture that exists today: man worshipping himself, man saying loudly and clearly, "I am master of my own destiny. I can solve all the problems of my life."

Some will acknowledge, in moments of grave difficulty, that they might turn their face to God and (almost as if they were his equal) ask his advice. Others simply deny there is a God. Still others, beholding the modern scene, are almost afraid to move. They have been reluctant to put out their hand, to grasp the hand of another so as to be able to hold onto the hand of God - which would have given them strength and peace in the midst of turmoil.

*Sobornost: (Russian) A unity that has been effected though the word of the Gospel. "Vox Dei, vox populi...Sobornost is you and me constantly listening to God, and with an open heart, asking him, "What is your will?" - Doherty