St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal Church

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True Enlightenment

9. Since the light of spiritual knowledge is the intellect’s life, and since this light is engendered by love for God, itis rightly said that nothing is greater than divine love (cf. 1 Cor. 13:13).

St. Maximus the Confessor Four Hundred Centuries on Love:#9

In a world saturated with information, knowledge is often equated with power. However, there exists a kind of knowledge that transcends facts, figures, and worldly wisdom — spiritual knowledge. According to St. Maximus the Confessor, this sacred enlightenment stems from divine love. At the heart of spiritual knowledge lies an understanding of our relationship with God and our purpose in His grand design. This knowledge isn't just cerebral; it permeates our entire being, guiding our actions and shaping our perspectives.

Paul, in his first letter to the Corinthians, extolled love as the greatest of virtues. This isn't mere romantic or filial love but an all-encompassing, divine love. Such love isn't just an emotion; it's an active force that illuminates our minds and souls.

In cherishing and nurturing our love for God, we open ourselves to a deeper, richer understanding of the universe and our place within it. It's a testament to the transformative power of divine love that it not only warms our hearts but enlightens our minds.

Imagine, if you will, what power we can have over the challenges of this world if we harness the divine love St. Maximus the Confessor highlights?