Liminal

Guest blog by Jim Hoyt

Definition:

“Of, relating to, or situated at a sensory threshold: barely perceptible or capable of eliciting a response.”

It is the space between what is happening and what will happen next. In other words, liminal space refers to the actual space or time in which we shift from one phase to another.

In the human state of mind, the journey between Good Friday and Easter Sunday can be liminal. When someone tells us that we are a sinner and only by the blood of the Lamb of God are we cleansed. Our consideration of our response is a liminal place.

In despair, or heartbreak, or disappointment the feeling of abandonment we may feel may cause us to fall on our knees and ask why? Where are You God? Do You see me? In times of great happiness, we may not think of the future and see, or even give thought to the hills, mountains, valleys, and curves ahead. All examples of liminal.

Finding that place in time where we meditate on nothing more than the joy and presence of the Creator. That place where our past is not present and our future is not yet a thought. The place where shame from our past does not exist and anxieties of things to come cannot touch us. The place where we currently are, where we stand or sit and everything else is not a thought. Like truly being caught up in a praise song and wanting it to go on forever.

Psalm 42:11 says, “Why are you in despair, oh my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God.”

Does the psalmist take time to reflect? Speaking to himself and what God has brought to him through the wonders and mysteries he has been taught from ages past. At this point does he find the place where he stands and enters that “liminal” place before God and rejoice and bask in the glory of His presence?

God wants to meet us in the midst of whatever we are going through. Whether it is joy or pain, despair or future anxiety. Drop it all at His feet and be present in His presence. Acquiescence, consent statements we can make.

“Let it be done to me according to Your Word”.

“Not my will, but Your will be done.”

May we all meet Him in that liminal space.