Perfect Love and Fear

Maximus the Confessor explains that perfect love expels the first kind of fear, which is based on punishment. However, the second kind of fear, which is pure and linked with love, remains united with perfect love. This second fear is enduring and is characterized by a reverence that prevents spiritual indifference.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJuly 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 Two Kinds of Fear of God

Maximus the Confessor distinguishes between two kinds of fear of God. The first is generated by the threat of punishment, leading to self-control, patience, hope in God, and dispassion. From dispassion comes love. The second kind of fear is linked with love and produces reverence in the soul, preventing it from becoming indifferent to God due to the intimate communion of love.

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

The Gentle and Humble Heart

In the teachings of Christ, gentleness and humility are presented as essential virtues for spiritual growth. “Learn from Me,” He said, “for I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matt. 11:29). Gentleness keeps the soul’s incensive power in a calm state, while humility frees the intellect from conceit and self-esteem.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJuly 8, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal ChurchMaximus, Maximos, early church, st francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church

Cultivating Inner Peace: Lessons from the Slow Food Family Farm (Sabbatical Reflection #11)

As I continue to reflect on my experiences at the Slow Food Family Farm, one conversation with Carlos stands out—a dialogue that delved deep into the essence of inner peace. Carlos, a devout Christian, shared insights that resonated profoundly with me, reminding me of the timeless teachings of Jesus.

SabbaticalJustin YawnJuly 7, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal Churchst francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church, Sabbatical

The Healing Power of Almsgiving, Fasting, and Prayer

Maximus the Confessor explains that almsgiving heals the soul’s incensive power, fasting withers sensual desire, and prayer purifies the intellect. These practices correspond to the powers of the soul and prepare it for contemplation and divine communion.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJuly 5, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal ChurchMaximus, Maximos, early church, st francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church

The Lost Art of the Toastmaster in Sicilian Culture (Sabbatical Reflection #10)

As my sabbatical journey approached its penultimate finale, I found myself at the home of Jesse and Carlos, the stewards of the Slow Food Family Farm. Their idyllic family farm is a testament to self-sufficiency, producing all their own food, power, and water. Here, they live in harmony with the land, understanding its vital role in sustaining life.

SabbaticalJustin YawnJuly 4, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal Churchst francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church, Sabbatical

The Scope of Divine Teachings

Maximus the Confessor categorizes divine teachings into three areas: teachings about God, things visible and invisible, and the providence and judgment relating to them. These teachings encompass the entirety of divine wisdom and guidance.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJuly 3, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal ChurchMaximus, Maximos, early church, st francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church

Tragedy and Communal Grief: Reflections on the Patronal Feast of San Paolo (Sabbatical Reflection #9)

As part of my sabbatical journey, I found myself in the charming town of Palazzolo Acreide, Sicily. This past week, I was immersed in the vibrant preparations for the Patronal Feast of San Paolo—a beloved international event that draws around twelve thousand visitors to this small town of 4000.

SabbaticalJustin YawnJuly 2, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal Churchst francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church, Sabbatical

Fulfilling the Commandments

According to Maximus the Confessor, fulfilling God’s commandments leads to dispassion, and through His teachings, we receive the light of spiritual knowledge. The commandments guide us in our journey towards holiness and divine love.

centuries on loveJustin YawnJuly 1, 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: History, Culture, and Family (Sabbatical Reflection #8)

During our visit to the charming town of Modica, known for its rich culture and local industry, we had the pleasure of dining with Chef Salva and Ludavica our guide. As we savored the delightful flavors of Sicilian cuisine, our conversation flowed seamlessly through a variety of intriguing topics. Two particularly thought-provoking discussions stood out: the statues that represents Sicily's dark past and human treatment and the notable lack of extreme homelessness present in every city/town we have visited.

SabbaticalJustin YawnJune 30, 2024St. Francis in-the-Field Episcopal Churchst francis in-the-field, justin yawn, patristics, contemplative, ponte vedra, Episcopal Church, Sabbatical

© st. francis in-the-Field

Sign up for our E-Newsletter