Spiritual Reflection

"Prayer is the light of the spirit"

From a homily by Saint John Chrysostom, bishop
(Supp. Hom. 6 De precatione: PG 64, 462-466)

 Prayer and converse with God is a supreme good: it is a partnership and union with God… I do not mean the prayer of outward observance but prayer from the heart, not confined to fixed times or periods, but continuous throughout the day and night.

Our spirit should be quick to reach out toward God not only when it is engaged in meditation; at other times also, when it is carrying out its duties, caring for the needy, performing works of charity, giving generously in the service of others, our spirit should long for God, and call him to mind, so that these works may be seasoned with the salt of God's love, and so make a palatable offering to the Lord of the universe. Throughout the whole of our lives we may enjoy the benefit that comes from prayer if we devote a great deal of time to it.