As I woke this morning there was a deep chill in the air. The temperature outside was 28 degrees! The world was bright and crisp and frosty. After a cup of coffee and a zoom meeting, I headed outside for a quick walk to document the beauty. We were filled in the morning with Thy… Continue reading Beauty in the Mornings
My scripture reading today brought to me by the lectionary specifically for this Saturday before Great Lent begins. It never ceases to amaze me the wisdom of the Church in the perfect readings for each season throughout the year. It really is beautiful. The epistle reading: Romans 14:19-23, 16:25-27 Therefore let us pursue the things… Continue reading Today’s Readings
Earlier this week in my post Death is Overthrown I mentioned that I was reading Way of the Ascetic by Tito Colliander. I've been pondering on this very short section of his book, On Times of Darkness, all week. I shared how comforting it was to know that "even the saints have had their dark… Continue reading Take Comfort
This is what I read this morning. Everything. In word or deed! Everything in the name of the Lord. I kind of see this as, would the Lord bless what it is that I am doing? Or am I doing this for my own selfish gain or is what I am doing glorifying God? This… Continue reading In the Name of the Lord
Focus exclusively on God and light. Never focus on darkness, temptation, and sin. That’s classic teaching. Fill yourself with good things. Don’t be mesmerized by dark things. Don’t meditate on evil things. Meditate on good things, and God will take care of the rest. Fr. Thomas Hopko I can think only of the verses I… Continue reading Maxim Week 52
One of the things I have discovered I need to do is seek to see God all around. When trying to remember the joy of the Resurrection it helps to remember God is "every where present and filling all things". When reading Psalm 18/19:1 I was reminded of this fact. I have tried to become… Continue reading Heavens Declare
As promised, let's take a look at what St. Seraphim had to say about idleness and despondency. Continuing in the same paragraph we read yesterday about acquiring peace St. Seraphim touches on despondency. In the same way the Saint warned about struggles with despondency, "You should throw off despondency, and strive to have a joyful… Continue reading You Must Not Sorrow
Give advice to others only when asked to do so or when it is your duty to do so. This is very important. You don’t go around giving free advice or counsel. If people ask us, we tell them. I was asked, “Father Tom, say some things on Ancient Faith Radio. I say: “Okay, cause… Continue reading Maxim Week 47
Today's scripture reading grabbed my attention. Some days are hard. Really hard. We get discouraged. We lose hope and we despair. The world feels like it is closing in and we are overwhelmed. It is on days like this that I really need my reminders. There are so many reminders to call upon. (And I… Continue reading Abound in Hope
My hubby and I, together with some friends, are reading a book I read a couple years ago, Everywhere Present by Stephen Freeman. As I've been reading through it a 2nd time I remembered how much I loved chapter 3, We Live in an Altar. It is so rich and full. The premise of the… Continue reading Full of His Glory
Kindler of Joy! 