NOT A SYSTEM, BUT A KEY
The Church gives us not a system, but a key; not a plan of God’s City, but the means of entering it. Perhaps someone will lose his way because he has no plan. But all that he will see, he will see without a mediator, he will see it directly, it will be real for him; while he who has studied only the plan risks remaining outside and not really finding anything.
Fr. Georges Florovsky
THE MOST PERFECT RULE
The most perfect rule of Christianity, its exact definition, its highest summit, is this: to seek what is for the benefit of all… I cannot believe that it is possible for a man to be saved if he does not labour for the salvation of his neighbor.
St. John Chrysostom
What is pure prayer? Prayer which is brief in words but abundant in actions. For if your actions do not exceed your petitions, then your prayers are mere words, and the seed of the hands is not in them.
The Sayings of the Desert Fathers
“Believe me, there is one truth that reigns supreme from the fringes of the throne of glory down to the least shadow of the most insignificant of creatures: and that one truth is love. Love is the source from which the holy streams of grace flow down unceasingly from the city of God, watering the earth and making it fruitful… It is love that gives life and warmth, that inspires and guides. Love is the seal set upon creation, the signature of the Creator. Love is the explanation of His handiwork.”
When we have reached love, we have reached God and our journey is complete. We have crossed over to the island which lies beyond the world, where are the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit; to whom be glory and dominion. May God make us worthy to fear and love him. Amen.
St. Isaac the Syrian