The Dual Path of Humility and Asceticism

Maximus the Confessor highlights the transformative power of humility and ascetic hardship. Humility cuts out the passions of the soul, while asceticism addresses the passions of the body. Together, they free us from all sin.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJune 28, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal ChurchMaximus, Maximos, early church, st francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church

Around the Table: Bene (Sabbatical Reflection #7)

As we find ourselves on the enchanting island of Sicily for four weeks, embracing the heart of our sabbatical, each day brings new and unique encounters around the table. The conversations are as varied and vibrant as the Sicilian landscape itself. Among these cherished moments, one particularly stands out: our meeting with Bene.

SabbaticalJustin YawnJune 27, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal Churchst francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church, Sabbatical

Detachment from Worldly Pleasures

Maximus the Confessor teaches that indifference to fame, pleasure, and riches is essential for cutting off occasions for anger and attaining perfect love. These worldly attachments fuel our passions and distract us from the pursuit of divine love.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJune 26, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal ChurchMaximus, Maximos, early church, st francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church

Discovering Harmony in the Ancient Relief of Acreide (Sabbatical Reflection #6)

As we explore the fabric of Palazzolo Acreide situated in the heart of Sicily our journey leads us to the remains of an ancient Greek city named Acreide. Here amidst echoes, from days gone by lies a hidden treasure—the Intagliatella quarry. Discovered within this quarry is a relief dating back to 300 to 200 BC showcasing an era where two influential cultures opted for harmony over strife.

SabbaticalJustin YawnJune 24, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal Churchst francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church, Sabbatical

The Saints’ Love for Their Neighbors

Maximus the Confessor points to the profound love the saints have for their neighbors, quoting St. Paul’s willingness to be severed from Christ for the sake of his brethren. This sacrificial love mirrors the love of Christ, who gave Himself for all humanity.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJune 24, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal ChurchMaximus, Maximos, early church, st francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church

The Unshakable Love of the Saints

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

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