When I recite the Jesus Prayer

„Thus, he who feels his spiritual weakness asks God for mercy.” (A Night in the Wilderness of Mount Athos - H.E. Ierotheos Vlachos)

When I say the Jesus Prayer, sometimes I don't mention names, but I know, that is, I somehow feel that I am not saying it only for myself. What is certain is that I cannot say it for everyone... I leave it to the Lord to place them in prayer, and for us to place each other.

* * *

„The Jesus Prayer, when performed with the lips and the mind, puts evil thoughts to flight and pacifies the mind...".(A Night in the Wilderness of Mount Athos - H.E. Ierotheos Vlachos)

Perhaps that is why the Prayer comes to my mind, wherever I may be. Sometimes I observe tempting thoughts and begin the Prayer, but not by myself, because it is a gift.

* * *

The book is so beautiful! The Lord has mercy on me through it, but I don't know what to do, because I cannot put into practice what is written, because... I am worldly...

But I thank You, Merciful Christ, that Your name appears in my mind and on my tongue: „Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me!”.

* * *

Oh, Lord, forgive me for all the times I have grumbled, and I grumble! I thank You for Your gifts, Silence and Stillness!

„The swiftest path to achieving good spiritual practice for beginners is the silence of the lips, the closing of the eyes, and the deafening of the ears" - St. Symeon the New Theologian (A Night in the Wilderness of Mount Athos - H.E. Ierotheos Vlachos).

I will try to be aware of His gifts, at least a little. Lord, help!

Anastasia

Photograph by Daria Obymaha / pexels.com