Today we remember Sts. Barsanuphias and John.
"Oh." he said. "We have their book. Father Seraphim and Fr. Herman translated their advice on the Spiritual Life for the monks living at St. Herman's."
"We do?" I pondered. See, last weekend our priest walked us through some writings of St. Basil, helping me to believe that it was indeed possible to read the spiritual fathers with understanding and benefit. I know, I know: this is something I was told 6 years ago when we became Orthodox, but my first venture into the Ante-Nicean Fathers was difficult; I had not yet been weaned from the milk of Max Lucado to be able to handle more mature food.
My husband replied, "Sure - it's over there in the bookshelf. I'll go get it."
This morning, while waiting for the computer to load, I opened Guidance Toward Spiritual Life to see what sort of guidance these holy men were giving.
from pg. 49:
When we pray and God delays in hearing (our prayer), He does this for our benefit, so as to teach us longsuffering; wherefore, we need not become downcast, saying, "We prayed and were not heard."
God knows what is profitable for a man.
Rejoice in the Lord, leave off all your cares, and pray for me, O my beloved brother, one in spirit (with me).
Advice I need to accept, ponder, and obey.
I thought I commented on this last night, but maybe not. I hope everything will fall into place for you. I think it is so hard to wait and ponder. I am such an impatient person. Lord, have mercy on us all.
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