Usually like to write these out to absorb them more myself through the typing each word rather than simply posting, but am in major transition plus pain to go with it, so this is it for now. So meaningful and worth deeply considering and taking to heart, though. Also have been watching video documentaries of early saints and desert fathers and mothers, and of tracing the steps in actuality of locations of the development of hermitic life as well as the Jesus Prayer.
Resting in bed, of which I am quite a bit really, since the surgery last July. The protocol seems to be my body up and trying to do a little effort one day or pushing it a little for two days--just something simple like a couple hours' effort of manual task or to drive to run an errand for supplies--and then a day or more in bed with much pain. But last night quite a dream including a waking vision that I've sorted through, understanding the major parts and message. But yes, great shift in major way, transition phase spiritually that of course affects the temporal, also.
Follow the path to heaven!
Day by day follow God's path, keeping him closely attached to you by his promise. In fact he himself said, through the mediation of his apostles, to all those who seek his will and his testimonies (Ps 118[119]:31 LXX), that he would be with them until the end of the world (Mt 28:20) where paths and footsteps will be unknown (cf, Ps 76:20), as the divine David said in his songs. Yet, in an invisible way, he is present to the eyes of the mind, making himself seen by those who have a pure heart and conversing with them. So pursue your path (…).
Take the wings of the love of God to fly like the clouds (cf. Is 60:8), raised above the obstacles of this earth. Anoint your feet with the oil of joy (cf. Ps 44:8) and temperance. Do not hinder the Lord's narrow way with your dragging feet. If you are thirsty in your pusillanimity, drink the water of patience (cf. Sir 15:3); if you are hungry in your spiritual sluggishness, eat the bread that nourishes and strengthens the heart of man (cf. Ps 103[104]:15), a word of wisdom and courage. Hitch up your garment and be ready for action, look up and don't burden yourself with those oppressive loads which are your evil desires. For, for anyone who is accomplishing the journey from earth to heaven, it is enough to diligently pursue one's path without assuming extra weight. (…)
Be strong in the Lord; go up to the mountain of God, to his holy house (Is 2:3) with Isaiah the cantor, the prophet with such a powerful voice. Let none remain behind, none sit down; help one another, everyone rooted in a firm charity.
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