Imagine standing at the edge of a vast desert, the hot sun beating down on golden sands that stretch infinitely in all directions. These sands are in constant flux, moved by the whims of the winds. Just as you think you've grasped a handful, it slips through your fingers, disappearing as quickly as it appeared. Such is the nature of the transitory and corruptible.
Read MoreNow, picture, if you will, a vast and expansive garden—the Garden of Humanity. In this garden, there are myriad flowers, each unique in its own splendor. Some are roses with vibrant red petals, others are delicate lilies, while still others are daisies standing tall with their sunny faces to the sky. Each flower holds a beauty that's intrinsic, and none can claim to be superior or inferior to another.
Read MoreThe measure of our love for God can often be gauged by our ability to love those around us. This isn't limited to mere words or feelings but is reflected in our genuine efforts to understand, care for, and uplift others. Every act of kindness, every gesture of understanding, and every moment of patience towards our neighbor becomes a living testament to our love for God.
Read MoreIt is crucial to differentiate between condemning an act and harboring hatred towards an individual. While we might denounce an action as immoral or harmful, it doesn't warrant cultivating a feeling of hatred towards the person committing it. Understanding this distinction is essential in nurturing a heart that's in harmony with divine love.
Read MoreAt the very core of spiritual progression lies the concept of purification. To understand the depth of this saying by St. Maximus, we need to delve into the realms of what constitutes a soul’s purity and why thoughts of sensual desire and hatred are seen as impurities.
Read MoreUnconditional love, especially when viewed through a divine lens, is a profound journey of the soul, a deep-seated conviction that transcends mere human understanding. The saying emphasizes the intrinsic connection between loving God and loving every human being. It brings to light a deep spiritual truth: our ability to love others without conditions is directly proportional to the depth of our love for the Divine.
Read MoreOur spiritual journey is often depicted as a path paved with virtues. These virtues – patience, kindness, humility, and the like – aren't mere adornments to our character but essential tools guiding our intellect towards an intimate union with the Divine. Virtues and intellect, according to St. Maximus, work hand in hand. Virtues mold the intellect, refining it, allowing it to cultivate an intense longing for God. Yet, among all virtues, pure prayer stands paramount. But what constitutes pure prayer?
Read MoreThere's a certain paradox in spiritual journeys. As we seek deeper connections with the Divine, we often encounter moments where our sense of self diminishes, giving way to something far grander. St. Maximus the Confessor captures this phenomenon brilliantly in this saying on the overwhelming nature of divine love.
Read MoreModern life, with its myriad of distractions, poses a unique challenge to the spiritually inclined. Every day, we are presented with countless 'sensible objects'—material things that appeal to our senses and demand our attention.
Read MoreThe first time I walked into Times Square I was overwhelmed by the lights, sounds, and volume of people who I encountered. Despite the fact that I am an extrovert by nature I found myself in a complete sensory overload. Nowadays I skip Times Square for less crowded streets and less sensory overload. In my pursuit to see New York, I find myself traversing quiet streets and tree lined streets with friendly people who seem to forget they do not live in one of the worlds largest and busiest cities.
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