Phenomenology of Prayer 2: Kenosis

Phenomenology of Prayer 2: Kenosis
December 10, 2017
In another blog post, I discuss praise but in this blog post I want to describe related element of prayer. In chapter 1, the idea of “kenosis” is discussed. Kenosis is described as a “self emptying process.” According to Merold Westphal, kenotic emptying is what occurs before one can engage in praise.
Kenosis, is a self emptying oneself before God. The process of emptying yourself before God includes the recognition that God is higher and more wonderful than yourself. Your cosmos is shifted, and rather than you being at the center, God is placed at the center (15).
This is an interesting and challenging concept. Viewing another as higher than yourself can make you feel like there is something wrong with with you---that you are weak and inferior.

In comparison to God, I am weak and inferior. This can be a difficult concept to grapple with because it is easy to put my identity in my own strength and abilities. As a person who at times struggles with feeling weak, it is actually comforting to think that my identity is not placed on my own strength. So while it is humbling and challenging to view God is greater, this is actually beautiful to me and I am grateful for this truth. This section of the book was an important reminder to me of the position I should take when I approach God in prayer. In addition to this though, I actually feel encouraged and excited because this section reminds me that I do not have to protect my own identity by always appearing or feeling strong---rather my identity is hinged on the goodness and love of the Father.

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