Triune Thoughts

I've spoken of the Trinity Knot before. It is a beautiful symbol also known as a Triquetra or Celtic Knot. I was formally introduced to this design at the Saint Francis Retreat in San Juan Bautista, California.

There is a rich history behind this symbol that has been adopted and appreciated generation after generation. There are many possible ways to interpret or find personal meaning, but I've been drawn to the representation of the Holy Trinity. The Father, Son, and Spirit. The Three in One.

I've heard it said that we share the divine DNA of the Source of life. I like to think of this as our individual "triune selves." The mind, body, and soul that make up this three in one that we each call ourselves. It's interesting to think about this in regard to the Trinity. If you're curious, "In Trinitarian doctrine, God exists as three persons but is one being, having a single divine nature. The members of the Trinity are co-equal and co-eternal, one in essence, nature, power, action, and will." What I like about this definition is that it's easier to relate to God existing as three persons in one nature. We are not simply our minds. We are not simply our bodies. We are not simply our souls. We are each and all. Which I find a wonderful way to connect on a deeper level in our lives. In mind, body, and soul. And I find the Trinity Knot as a nice icon to remind me of this.

Back to this beautiful symbol, we have the three arcs. Father, Son, and Spirit. Mind, Body, and Soul. But we also have this circle that unites them. This morning, during my quiet time of contemplative prayer, I was thinking about that circle. That thing that unites the three and binds them together. What is that thing?

Take a look at that circle again. We actually see three sections of that circle. So maybe a better question might be, what are those things that bind us together? Father, Son, and Spirit. And the reflection of that Holy Trinity of us and our minds, bodies, and souls. What are those things?

As I was meditated on that thought, I was reminded of David Steindl-Rast's lesson on faith, hope, and love. Faith: trust in Life and the Source of life. Hope: being open to surprise. Love: belonging and being connected. So maybe these three visible parts of the circle that unites are faith, hope, and love. The Trinity, the triune, and the circle. It's a nice thought just to find a little peace and serenity in the mystery of all that is. None of us know the answers, but all of us are welcome to seek the Mystery of Life. I find this symbol is a nice icon. The Trinity Knot. Tied together. United. Part of something bigger. Yet having the same divine nature. And with this, I'll close out these triune thoughts and offer you to be trusting, open, and connected as well.

Grace and peace and mercy to you today.