[The two general directions for the life of a recluse are] to keep the heart smooth and without any scar of evil, and to practice bodily discipline, which serves the first end, and of which Paul said that it profiteth little. Simon of Ghent, bishop of Salisbury, d. 1315
Author: Administrador
RECOLLECTION
Preserve a habitual remembrance of eternal life, recalling that those who hold themselves the lowest and poorest and least of all will enjoy the highest dominion and glory in God. John of the Cross There are three signs of inner recollection: first, a lack of satisfaction in passing things; second, a liking for solitude and … Continue reading “RECOLLECTION”
RECONCILIATION
… God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. The Bible, 2 Corinthians 5:19 All who strive for reconciliation seek to listen rather than to convince, to understand rather than to impose themselves. Brother Roger
REASON, LIMITATIONS OF
Human reason cannot begin to answer the great questions as to what God is in himself, and what he is in relation to us. John Calvin Reason is the greatest enemy faith has: it never comes to the aid of spiritual things, but – more frequently than not – struggles against the divine Word, treating … Continue reading “REASON,
LIMITATIONS OF”
RECEIVING
See: Acceptance
READING, DEVOTIONAL
Idleness is the enemy of the soul. And therefore, at fixed times, the brothers ought to be occupied in manual labor; and again, at fixed times, in sacred reading. Rule of Benedict Read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest. Book of Common Prayer Christian devotional reading helps us find intimate union with God, its motivation being … Continue reading “READING,
DEVOTIONAL”
REASON
Since grace does not scrap nature but brings it to perfection, so also natural reason should assist faith, as the natural loving bent of the will leads to charity. Thomas Aquinas God destines us for an end beyond the grasp of reason. Thomas Aquinas He that will not reason is a bigot; he that cannot … Continue reading “REASON”
RAINBOWS
My heart leaps up when I behold A rainbow in the sky. William Wordsworth
RAT RACE
The trouble with the rat race is that even if you win, you’re still a rat. Lily Tomlin
QUIETNESS
See also: Silence; Stillness Study to be quiet. The Bible, 1 Thessalonians 4:11 kjv If we have not quiet in our minds, outward comfort will do no more for us than a golden slipper on a gouty foot. John Bunyan O God, make us children of quietness, and heirs of peace. Clement of Rome Sometimes … Continue reading “QUIETNESS”