If you wish to save your soul and win eternal life, arise from your lethargy, make the sign of the Cross and say:
In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.
Faith comes not through pondering but through action. Not words and speculation but experience teaches us what God is. . . .
Arise, then; but do so at once, without delay. Do not defer your purpose till "tonight" or "tomorrow" or "later, when I have finished what I have to do just now." The interval may be fatal.
No, this moment, the instant you make your resolution, you will show by your action that you have taken leave of your old self and have now begun a new life, with a new destination and a new way of living. Arise, therefore, without fear and say: Lord, let me begin now. Help me! For what you need above all is God's help. Hold fast to your purpose and do not look back. . . .
Therefore, if you wish to save your soul and win eternal life, arise moment by moment from your dullness, bless yourself with the sign of the Cross and say: Let me, Lord, make a good beginning, in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.
Tito Colliander's Way of the Ascetics (St. Vladimir's Seminary Press: 1960/2003). pp. 1, 2-3, 101
[Although Way of the Ascetics, is available online (Way of the Ascetics; NOTE: Chapter four is missing), let me encourage you to purchase your own print copy. Preferrably through Eighth Day Books.]
Posted by Clifton at February 21, 2006 07:37 AM | TrackBack