Philokalia Ministries The Evergetinos - Hypothesis XL, Part VI
Stability of mind and heart: such are the characteristics of those who live the ascetic life. The mystery of the human person is such that we must suspend judgment of others as well as judgment of ourselves.
On a psychological level, things are multi- determined. In other words, many things coalesce to form our thoughts and actions. Therefore, we must be very cautious in the spiritual life not to act quickly when tempted to leave our state of life or vocation. The change of mere externals does not bring healing. The passions that often drive us in the way that we view circumstances and others are only healed through persevering through many trials.
We are ever so changeable. This is our great struggle and vulnerability, but it is also what allows us to repent. When we see our own sin or when we come to recognize the truth or when an illusion is revealed, we can turn toward God and cling to him and the healing he alone offers. “The Lord is an eternal rock”, the Scriptures tell us. Therefore, we must rest upon him. In him alone do we begin to experience an invincible peace and an unshakable hope.
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Text of chat during the group:
00:17:56 FrDavid Abernethy: page 351 para 11 00:33:42 Ambrose Little, OP: There are those who say that you are “lukewarm” if you don’t get upset about bad stuff happening in the world. 00:44:33 David Fraley: Reacted to "There are those who …" with 👍 00:47:50 Zoom user: Whoa 00:57:08 John Ingram: I've seen some of the psychological evaluation questions that are asked of candidates for the priesthood. They are truly bizarre and disturbing - and disconcerting. 00:58:40 Louise: Even in psychology departments, they do NOT use psychological evaluation for selecting PhD candidates. They are selected and evaluated only on grades. 00:58:48 Denise T.: This monk remained silent amidst the other monks' envy. Is it ever right to speak up for yourself and explain what you are doing? Or is it always better to remain silent when confronted with the envy of others. 01:04:27 Rachel: Yep 01:10:57 Denise T.: Thank you, Father. That is very helpful. 01:15:10 Rachel: Not leaving willie nilly..going to Mas. God bless! 01:15:17 Rachel: Mass 01:16:40 Louise: Thanks, Father! 01:16:53 Patrick Nugent, ObSB: Thank you, Father! 01:17:27 David Fraley: This has been a good session and a lot to think about. Thank you, Father!