1 LECTIO DIVINA

Chapter Four Leclercq has already pointed out that "devotion to Heaven" is found in the medieval monk's delight in the symbolism of the "Heavenly Jerusalem" and the focus on contemplating the glory of God. Another aspect of this devotion is in the theme of the Ascension. "This is one of the Mysteries of Christ on which St. 
Bernard left the greatest number of sermons, more even than on the Passion." (70).

Two characteristics of the Ascension that have parallels in the ascetical or spiritual life are: 
(1) separation from the world; 
(2) "heavenly life" (in caelestibus habitemus). 

Just as Jesus is separated from this world through His 
Ascension so too are we imitating Him abandoning all earthly desires in favor of those of Heaven; Christ's Ascension too reflects our need to raise our minds and hearts to God in Heaven imbuing them with the divine Life of Celestial Love.

We too like the Apostles keep our eyes raised to Heaven when they witnessed the Ascension. We do not gaze merely at clouds and atmosphere, but rather, within our mind's eye, that is, within our very depths we contemplate transcendent things, eternal truths, honor, integrity, truth, justice, in effect the Gospel and its teaching. 

Jean Leclercq, O.S.B., The Love of Learning and the Desire For God. A 
Study of Monastic Culture. (NY: Fordham University Press, 1961, 1974) 
ISBN 0-8232-0406-5


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