Divine Radiation Therapy

“The one thing I ask of the LORD—the thing I seek most–is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, delighting in the LORD’s perfections and meditating in his Temple.” (Psalm 27:4 NLT)

A friend of mine had to have several weeks of radiation therapy as part of her cancer treatment. This involved going to the hospital daily, lying still on a table, and waiting alone in a room while the radiation was administered by a tech from an adjacent room. On the outside, it didn’t look like much was happening, but invisible radioactive rays were killing the cancer cells. She said the radiation didn’t hurt; it was just inconvenient in many ways.

Practice of the Presence of God, by Brother Lawrence, describes a form of Divine radiation therapy. It involves intentionally soaking in God’s presence, being aware of God’s goodness and love, continually conversing with the Lord on all matters, surrendering everything, and being committed to do His will. At first, this feels inconvenient. We would rather do what we want, when we want. None of us wants to be still and submit to God. Changing our natural habits takes time and practice.

Personally, being alone with God in the interior of my being has taken a lot of effort. I have had to withdraw from my natural affinity for productivity, striving, and distractions. I have learned to cultivate external and internal silence. While I am actively involved in my church, Bible study, and serving others, it is private prayer that sustains me. Love for Jesus motivates me. His radiant gaze heals me.

Living under the loving gaze of God influences our attitudes and behaviors. It shrinks our pride, selfishness, and rebellion. As we develop attentiveness to God, His grace envelops us. Pleasing the Lord becomes our primary goal. In His presence, we discover joy and satisfaction. In time, Divine radiation transforms us from the inside out, drawing us closer to Christ.