Within but hidden

John of the Cross is a master of contemplative prayer and a great spiritual director. He has, according to Iain Matthews, "led us on a search for encounter with God. He has done so in the assurance of the resurrection - under the impact of a God who is pouring himself out. This God searches out the persons and makes them capable of the gift that will fill them. Something is happening, . . . we may not see it happening. John's quest is for encounter, not for a feeling of encounter..."

The most real thing about us is our need for God. God comes to us in our need.