From numerous accounts and writings, it has been shown that true contemplatives do not seek unusual experiences, much less personal power. This is because Christian mysticism is based on grace: the indwelling of the Trinity in the souls of mankind, and a divine call to holiness. In her Revelations... more

From numerous accounts and writings, it has been shown that true contemplatives do not seek unusual experiences, much less personal power. This is because Christian mysticism is based on grace: the indwelling of the Trinity in the souls of mankind, and a divine call to holiness. In her Revelations, Julian shows great charm in the childlike, tender quality of her expression. She sees God as one Who delights in His creation and desires that we would recognize this and participate. Julian's attitude regarding the "all shall be well" largely depends on acceptance of the limitations of our own vision and the knowledge that the vastness of divine providence is mysterious. It is well worth noting that an anchoress lacked neither time nor motivation for recording such reflections, it is a fair assumption that her understanding of the full scope of her revelations developed over many years. Julian has remained a continual evolving manuscript for numerous individuals both of the laity, clergy and scholastic vocations. This is quite remarkable, since the flip side of this story is the “Ladder of Perfection” by Walter Hilton OSA, which many contend was written to Julian. This work has a life of its own and is continually resurfacing. Julian emphasizes numerous points of doctrine, with an exquisite joy, focusing on “the bliss and glory” rather than the idea of earth's being a battleground for good and evil. This is one thing which sets her apart from many others, regardless of their gender. Julian similar to Angelina of Foligno requests that the participant be just that, a participant with God, and not struggle against what so easily transcends our minute understanding. Julian is indeed a work which should be read, explored and reviewed for personal and spiritual insights for ones spiritual development.