In the face of very tangible tragedies, it may appear impractical to talk about holiness, a concept that seemingly sets us apart from the world as a condescending observer.

But nothing could be more practical. The world aches for human beings who embody true holiness — whole and well-functioning people who have ​“the ability to do what needs to be done when it needs to be done.” 

As we live this month into the Holiness Tradition, or the Virtuous Life, Richard Foster helps us reclaim the meaning of ​“holiness,” both in an excerpt from Streams of Living Water and in a new podcast interview with Nathan Foster. 

It turns out that ​“the beauty of holiness” isn’t a contradiction but a fact. Rather than being stuck-up and self-righteous, those who who are holy as Jesus is holy are down-to-earth, honest, alive, steady, and full of grace. Around such a person one may feel convicted but never condemned. 

Dallas Willard provides some practical steps for training in holiness. As we engage spiritual practices our prayer is always for progress, not perfectionism. 

Father, make us a holy people whose hearts are inclined toward goodness and right action, who are silent when silence is best and vocal where our voice is needed.