From Father George's Desk
The Church Fathers are not always an easy
read, but their writings are still of great importance, not only for
understanding what ancient Christians believed and how they
practiced the faith, but for our own
spiritual growth today. And sometimes their writing is just beautiful. In
celebration of
Pentecost, we read an excerpt from St.
Basil the Great's treatise "On the Holy Spirit." I enjoy coming back to this
piece every year. Here's part of it:
“Simple in himself, the Spirit is manifold
in his mighty works. The whole of his share in him he gives a delight
limited only by their own being is present to each individual; the whole of
his being is present everywhere. Though shared in by many, he remains
unchanged; his self giving is no loss to himself. Like the sunshine, which
permeates all the atmosphere, spreading over land and sea, and yet is
enjoyed by each person as though it were for him alone, so the Spirit pours
forth his grace in full measure, sufficient for all, and yet is present as
though exclusively to everyone who can receive him. To all creatures that
nature, not by his ability to give.
The Spirit raises our hearts to heaven,
guides the steps of the weak, and brings to perfection those who are making
progress. He enlightens those who have been cleansed from every stain of sin
and makes them spiritual by communion with himself.
As clear, transparent substances become
very bright when sunlight falls on them and shine with a new radiance, so
also souls in whom the Spirit shines become spiritual themselves and a
source of grace for others.
From the Spirit comes foreknowledge of the
future, understanding of the mysteries of faith, insight into the hidden
meaning of Scripture, and other special gifts. Through the Spirit we become
citizens of heaven, we enter into eternal happiness, and abide in God.
Through the Spirit we acquire a likeness to God; indeed, we attain what is
beyond our most sublime aspirations – we become God.”
In peace,
Father George+