between Bernard and Calvin is that for Bernard contemplation was primarily
relational, while for Calvin it was essentially doxological. Bernard frequently focuses
upon Jesus, the Word, while Calvin’s attention to contemplation is typically directed
to God the Father and the works of creation and providence.^88 Unfortunately, no
detailed study of contemplation in Calvin presently exists.^89 However, there is an
important link between Calvin and Ambrose and other Puritans that relates to
meditation on heaven. Calvin declares, “[s]ince, therefore, believers ascribe to God’s
grace the fact that, illumined by his Spirit, they enjoy through faith the contemplation
of heavenly life.”^90 In his commentary on Colossians, he asserts this more fully, “[l]et
us therefore bear in mind that that is the true and holy thinking as to Christ, which
forthwith bears us up into heaven, that we may there adore him, and that our minds
may dwell with Him.”^91 Ronald Wallace nicely connects “[t]he ‘mystical union’ with
Christ which played such an important part in Calvin’s theology, is union with the
ascended Christ” with meditation on heaven.^92 The Ascension also figured
prominently in Bernard’s preaching occupying more sermons than any other topic,
including Jesus’ passion.^93
The Puritans, including Ambrose, greatly expanded the connection between
heavenly-mindedness and meditation on heaven with contemplation. Calvin was not
88
On Calvin see, Institutes, 1.14.21; 1.17.9; 2.8.55; 3.20.4; 4.14.5; and Comm on Ps
- (^89) Zachman, (^) Image and Word in John Calvin occasionally flirts with the theme of
contemplation but never defines or exegetes Calvin’s theology of contemplation. 90
91 Calvin, Institutes, 3.2.40.^
Calvin, Comm on Col 3:1. For meditation on the heavenly life in Calvin see Ronald
Wallace, 92 Calvin’s Doctrine of Christian Life, 87-93.
Ronald Wallace, Calvin, Geneva and Reformation, 198. cf. Ronald Wallace,
Calvin’s Doctrine of Christian Life, 92. Similarly the Ascension was significant for
93 the Puritans. Wakefield, Leclercq, Love of Learning and Puritan DevotionDesire for God, 158-9., 56.^