This is a very special quote by Saint Simeon the New Theologian, and something that I should always remember.
My child, know that God does not rejoice because of fasting, or because of vigil, or because of our bodily labors, or because of any other good deed – but only because of a calm, gentle and meek soul and heart. – Saint Simeon the New Theologian.
All these things that we do, such as fasting, keeping vigil, alms giving and other good deeds that we do are very good, but mean nothing if they are not done with a meek soul and heart. But what does that mean? It means to think of myself as nothing and that everyone else is better than I am.
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Dean
January 25, 2023 at 9:54 amNicholas,
That saying of St. Simeon the New Theologian is a jewel.
It is easy to get caught up in externals, whereas God wants the meek and lowly of heart. Then the rest of what we do is acceptable in His eyes. Thanks brother.
Nicholas Tamraz
January 25, 2023 at 1:56 pmThanks for your comment Dean. Yes I completely agree, Saint Simeon’s words are such precious jewels! Yes, it’s so easy for me sometimes to fall into the trap of getting caught up in the externals of the faith and not the internal. As you said, God looks inward, deep into our soul, looking for a person who is meek and lowly in heart. I love our Lord’s words: “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:29). Our Lord is such a perfect example of being meek and lowly in heart. I always try, but often fail, to follow our Lord’s example. But when I do follow his example, I find such peace and rest in my soul, exactly as He said! Glory to God for all things!
Milovan
January 25, 2023 at 3:47 pmI think it means whatever we do for Christ is enough, even if it falls short of a goal. The fact that we do something for him is enough or at least better than nothing.
Nicholas Tamraz
January 25, 2023 at 6:05 pmThanks for your comment Milovan. Yes you’re right! It’s exactly as you say. As long as we do something for Him and it comes from the heart he will accept. Such a loving and merciful God!