This is probably the best explanation for us in "the world" which I've read concerning these Divine words revealed to St. Silouan. Some commenters feel the need to apply them to us with the same intensity as the saint received and lived them, which seems to me a fairly big mistake. Or, others, recognizing this, warn against trying to apply them at all, which kind of turns it into theological speculation.
I do like that St. Sophrony said that the true meaning of these words is a true mystery, perhaps unattainable to us, but I don't think he meant it was something that can never be useful. Fr. Noica really helps us put this on the right place before us, I think.
Sometimes, for me, “keep thy mind in hell and despair not” is just too much.✍🏼😣
☦️ St Sophrony has a word that I use to balance the message given to his Elder Saint Silouan: “when you come to the edge of the abyss, take a few steps back, and have a cup of tea” 🫖 ⏰☘️❤️🩹🏔️
Holy Fathers Silouan and Sophrony, pray for us and help us walk with Jesus Christ our Lord with the Grace of the Holy Spirit.
Craig, I also feel that this word can be too much at times. Archim. Zacharias of Essex says that nowadays, people are not psychologically strong enough to bear this word, and he says giving thanks arrives at the same goal: a humble inner state. So gratitude may be the more gentle way for us.
This is probably the best explanation for us in "the world" which I've read concerning these Divine words revealed to St. Silouan. Some commenters feel the need to apply them to us with the same intensity as the saint received and lived them, which seems to me a fairly big mistake. Or, others, recognizing this, warn against trying to apply them at all, which kind of turns it into theological speculation.
I do like that St. Sophrony said that the true meaning of these words is a true mystery, perhaps unattainable to us, but I don't think he meant it was something that can never be useful. Fr. Noica really helps us put this on the right place before us, I think.
Dear Silouan, Happy Name Day! I agree. This explanation is much more relatable and applicable.
Thank you so very much for this wonderful gift. I needed to read this and God sent you to me. Again God bless 🙏🙏
Was it Jesus or his spiritual father who said that?
Sometimes, for me, “keep thy mind in hell and despair not” is just too much.✍🏼😣
☦️ St Sophrony has a word that I use to balance the message given to his Elder Saint Silouan: “when you come to the edge of the abyss, take a few steps back, and have a cup of tea” 🫖 ⏰☘️❤️🩹🏔️
Holy Fathers Silouan and Sophrony, pray for us and help us walk with Jesus Christ our Lord with the Grace of the Holy Spirit.
One day at a time Amigo,
one day at a time…….
Craig, I also feel that this word can be too much at times. Archim. Zacharias of Essex says that nowadays, people are not psychologically strong enough to bear this word, and he says giving thanks arrives at the same goal: a humble inner state. So gratitude may be the more gentle way for us.
Thank you and Thanksgiving
I love and cherish the writings of Archimandrite Zacharias 🇨🇾