Metropolitan Neophytos of Morphou speaks to us
I knew Saint Eumenios Saridakis. Once, when I went to him, I played the advocate:
- Geronda, what should I do, since I don't change at all? Every time I confess the same things. Why don't I change, even though I strive and make efforts?
- Because you desire Christ little. A little is enough for you, you are content with very little.
- And how will I be able to improve myself?
- Speak to Christ with simplicity, tell Him: „Christ, I want to change, to be close to You, but the fact that I don't change means I desire You little. Help me, Christ! I want to desire You more and more”.
This word impressed me greatly: „I want to desire You, but this 'I want', please, You, Christ, increase it”.
- But can I speak to Christ like that?
- No, you cannot now. Now you must be patient with yourself and wait a few years, and throughout all these years, before you speak to Christ with your heart, you will strive to say continuously: „Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me! Grant me simplicity and gentleness!”. Without simplicity, you cannot pray to Christ with your heart. Without simplicity, it will be as if you are acting.
From „Atitudini” Magazine No. 87