A Note, Seven Months In

I've been married for seven months now, and let me tell you, when you are irritated, flat-out angry, or insulted, don't keep it a secret. At the same time, neither let your forgiveness (which should always occur) be a secret. Be open to the impact that your spouse wants to have upon your life; let his/her encouragement lift you up from any depth.

Comments on St. Symeon’s “Practical and Theological Texts,” Part I

This is the first in a series of blogs based on The Philokalia, Vol. 4.

From the first of the “One-Hundred and Fifty-Three Practical and Theological Texts”:

To have faith is to die for Christ and for His commandments.

Denying oneself the sensual pleasures, giving up desires for food, comfort, recognition, and security, one acquires the humility to receive love through the Holy Spirit to follow the commandments (Love the Lord with all of your heart, mind, soul and spirit…Love your neighbor as yourself).

…to believe that this death brings life; to regard poverty as wealth, and lowliness and humiliation as true glory and honour…”

Without attachment to material things, or to high regard among others, one does not seek them but sparingly, when absolutely needed (if this ever occurs). In not seeking the material and recognition, one is uninhibited to search the Spirit and act in love toward others.

More to come!