October 25, 1998
Three
Desert Mothers on the Spiritual Life
Today we will conclude our special series on "Desert
Mothers." This does not mean, of course, that we will no longer discuss the lives and
teachings of these holy women of God, but rather that we will simply include them as a
matter of course in our future newsletters and note them accordingly.
Today's offering from the lives of the Desert Mothers contains three shorter sayings that,
together, summarize the spiritual life:
BEGIN: The Lord has ordained that for a little labor, which we temporarily endure in this
life, we shall be vouchsafed the Kingdom of the heavens, life everlasting, ineffable
delights, and endless rest. As fitting, we believe these promises of the Lord. Therefore,
let us leave all the sweet pleasures of the world, as false and short-lived, that we may
inherit what is true and ageless. (St. Irene Chrysovalandou of Cappadocia) END
BEGIN: In this present life, we may be born three times. First, when we are delivered from
our mother's womb; thus coming from earth we again go to earth. The other two births cause
us to ascend from earth to heaven. The one, wrought by divine grace, comes to us through
Holy Baptism, which is true rebirth and regeneration. The third birth, wherein we now find
ourselves, takes place through repentance, which is achieved by means of tears and good
struggles. A fierce struggle have they that come to God in the monastic Schema, for at its
very commencement, they will struggle in many labors; yet, they will also receive
inexpressible joy. (St. Syncletike of Alexandria) END
BEGIN: Seek, my child, the nobility of the soul, for it is truth; that of the body is
false. Do not seek honor from men, for this injures one; but rather, seek heavenly glory .
. . . Thou art to be sympathetic with all the brethren and help them as much as possible;
and, thou art to minister unto them that are unable or weak. Do not desire to live by
another's labors . . . . Never ridicule anyone, and especially when they are in
misfortune. When thou wilt hear that a certain brother is disorderly, supplicate God to
correct his life. Visit and help the sick, and serve the brethren as their servant; so
thou might be a friend of Christ Who, for thy sake, became a servant and minister. Always
heed, my child, not to fall into temptations. However, if it happens that thou shouldst
fall, straightway, rise up and amend thyself with repentance, and again hasten to prayer.
In this manner, live thy life, my child, and God shall always hearken to thee and help
thee in soul and body. (St. Theodora of Alexandria) END.
From "The Lives of the Spiritual Mothers: An Orthodox Materikon of Women
Monastics and Ascetics," (Buena Vista, Colorado: Holy Apostles Convent, 1991),
p. 597
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