Author: Greg Hildenbrand

I am a contemplative spiritual director, author, and a leader of contemporary and blended worship at First United Methodist Church in Lawrence, Kansas. I am a happily married father of two awesome, adult children. I write a blog, Life Notes, every week and have published numerous books and music CDs, all of which are available on my website and other typical outlets. I enjoy writing, both music and text, and exploring and experiencing where spirit meets matter, in both seen and unseen ways.

Spiritual Nonviolence, Part 8

by Greg Hildenbrand, posted in devotion, Life Notes, meditation, Spirituality

Spiritual Nonviolence, Part 8 Active nonviolence call us to be ready to suffer, perhaps even with joy, if we believe this will help liberate the Divine in others. This includes the acceptance of our place and moment in history with its trauma, with its ambiguities.”[1]  Here are the ten tenants of A Spirituality of Nonviolence,[2] … Continue reading Spiritual Nonviolence, Part 8

Spiritual Nonviolence, Part 6

by Greg Hildenbrand, posted in devotion, Life Notes, meditation, Spirituality

Spiritual Nonviolence, Part 6 To understand and accept that the New Creation, the building up of the Beloved Community is always carried forward with others. It is never a “solo act.”[1]  Here are the ten tenants of A Spirituality of Nonviolence,[2] based on The Decalogue for a Spirituality of Nonviolence.1 I recognize the sacred in … Continue reading Spiritual Nonviolence, Part 6

Spiritual Nonviolence, Part 5

by Greg Hildenbrand, posted in devotion, Life Notes, meditation, Spirituality

Spiritual Nonviolence, Part 5 Active nonviolence calls (me) to face fear and to deal with it not mainly with courage but with love.[1]  Here are the ten tenants of A Spirituality of Nonviolence,[2] based on The Decalogue for a Spirituality of Nonviolence.1 I recognize the sacred in all people. I accept myself deeply. I recognize … Continue reading Spiritual Nonviolence, Part 5

Spiritual Nonviolence, Part 4

by Greg Hildenbrand, posted in devotion, Life Notes, meditation, Spirituality

Spiritual Nonviolence, Part 4 Active nonviolence calls (me) to renounce dualism, the “we-they” mentality. This divides us into “good people/bad people and allows us to demonize the adversary. It is the root of authoritarianism and exclusivist behavior. It generates racism and makes possible conflicts and wars.[1]  Here are the ten tenants of A Spirituality of … Continue reading Spiritual Nonviolence, Part 4