Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden Episode 35: On Hunting Dogs
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Aug 26, 2025 Bishop Erik Varden compares the fortitude of monks to a hound chasing a hare, emphasizing unwavering focus on Christ amidst life's distractions. The discussion highlights the hidden dynamism in monastic life and the importance of maintaining a deep relationship with Christ. Varden encourages listeners to root their faith beyond initial joys and reminds them of practices that help keep Christ at the forefront, likening this spiritual pursuit to a dog following its scent. Overall, it’s an inspiring call to perseverance in faith.
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Single-Minded Pursuit Of Christ
- A monk must be like the hound that has seen the hare: single-minded and undistracted.
- Focus on Christ alone protects one from being scandalized by others leaving the life.
Hidden Energy Beneath Monastic Calm
- Monastic life appears externally calm but hides a dynamic energy of movement toward God.
- That inward movement (hesychia) is the true hallmark of a well-lived monastic life.
The Hound Versus The Pack Example
- The elder's hunting-dog image responds to monks who start zealously but later fall away.
- It illustrates that waning desire, not only hardship, often causes people to abandon the vocation.
