The saints, having attained perfect love, demonstrate an unshakable commitment to God. Quoting St. Paul, Maximus the Confessor reminds us that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ—not affliction, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, or sword.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJune 21, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal ChurchMaximus, Maximos, early church, st francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church

Sabbatical Reflection #5

This morning, I embarked on a journey of quiet contemplation at a chapel monastery, led by Brother Leonardo Petrine. The serenity of the monastery, combined with the profound silence, offered a sanctuary for deep reflection and connection with the divine. Brother Petrine’s gentle presence and wisdom created an atmosphere of peace that permeated the soul.

SabbaticalJustin YawnJune 19, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal Churchst francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church, Sabbatical

Indifference to Worldly Distinctions

Maximus the Confessor emphasizes that perfect love is indifferent to worldly distinctions such as fame, dishonor, riches, poverty, pleasure, and distress. This indifference is a hallmark of perfect love, which focuses solely on the eternal rather than the temporal.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJune 19, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal ChurchMaximus, Maximos, early church, st francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church

The Equality of Perfect Love

Perfect love, as described by Maximus the Confessor, does not differentiate based on individual characteristics. It loves all equally, whether friend or foe, with a consistent, unwavering affection. This love mirrors the love of Christ, who suffered for all mankind and offers everyone an equal hope of resurrection.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJune 17, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal ChurchMaximus, Maximos, early church, st francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church

Perfect Love Beyond Human Character

Maximus the Confessor teaches that our love for others should not be swayed by their individual characteristics. If our regard for people fluctuates based on their behavior or our personal feelings, we have not yet attained perfect love. Perfect love transcends personal differences and sees the shared human nature in all.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJune 14, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal ChurchMaximus, Maximos, early church, st francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church

The Importance of Trust, Forgiveness, and Tending the Soil (Sabbatical Reflection #4)

As part of my sabbatical journey, I recently had the privilege of spending a day with Leonardo, a third-generation truffle hunter, and his stepdaughter, Julia. This experience illuminated profound lessons about trust, forgiveness, and our connection to the earth.

SabbaticalJustin YawnJune 13, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal Churchst francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church, Sabbatical

The Way of Peace: Shunning Suspicion and Offense

In the communal life of faith, maintaining peace is paramount. Maximus the Confessor warns us to shun all suspicions and the individuals who cause us to take offense. To harbor offense, whether it is intentional or unintentional, is to stray from the path of peace—a path that love illuminates and leads us to divine knowledge.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJune 12, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal ChurchMaximus, Maximos, early church, st francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church

The Story of Alessandro and his Father (Sabbatical Reflection #3)

In a world where fear often holds sway and the focus is, on growth, ROI and predictable success it's easy to overlook the importance of having a vision and practicing patience. However every now and then a story comes along that serves as a reminder of these virtues. Today I'd like to share with you the inspiring tale of Tomassio and his father—a narrative that embodies tradition, determination and an unwavering dedication to pursuing a dream.

SabbaticalJustin YawnJune 11, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal Churchst francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church, Sabbatical

The Gentle Hand of Brotherhood: Avoiding the Reproach of Conscience

In the communal life of a monastery, the bonds of brotherhood are as essential as the air we breathe. These bonds are built on mutual respect, understanding, and the shared pursuit of spiritual growth. Maximus the Confessor warns us of a grave danger to these bonds: the act of striking a fellow brother, especially without just cause. Such an action can lead to profound and lasting harm, not only to the individual struck but also to the spiritual well-being of the one who strikes.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJune 10, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal ChurchMaximus, Maximos, early church, st francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church

Embracing Our Divine Mission Amidst Criticism (Sabbatical Reflection #2)

As I look back on my first full week on this journey already full of surprises and self growth I want to share a lesson gleaned around the table of a wine maker in the Piedmont region, specifically the subregion of Cuneo. On that stop I met Nadia Curto, a local winemaker, with Vanessa, Brooklyn, and Lennox in toe for the day. As we sat around her table, Nadia shared stories about her uncle, Elio Altare, one of the legendary "Barolo Boys" who revolutionized Barolo wine in the Piedmont region. This encounter reminded me of a recent critique I received: “I am glad you are now excited about this ministry.” It struck a chord because, despite my genuine investment, I had not lived up to the unspoken expectations of others involved.

SabbaticalJustin YawnJune 9, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal Churchst francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church, Sabbatical

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