Brother Lawrence (of the Resurrection) was a 17th?century Carmelite lay brother in Paris. He is best known for his ?practicing of God?s presence.? Below is one of his wise counsels:
?During our work and other activities, even during our reading and writing, no matter how spiritual?and, I emphasize, even during our religious exercises and vocal prayers?we must stop for a moment, as often as possible, to adore God in the depths of our hearts, to savor him, even though in passing and stealthily. Since you are aware that God is present to you during your actions, that he is in the depths and center of your heart, stop your activities and even your vocal prayers, at least from time to time, to adore him within, to praise him, to ask his help, to offer him your heart, and to thank him.? (Brother Lawrence of the Resurrection. The Practice of the Presence of God. Trans. By Salvatore Sciurba, OCD. Washington D.C.: ICS Publications, 1994, p. 36-37.)
Questions
- When are you most aware of and responsive to God?s presence?
- When do you find it hardest to remember and respond to Him?
- What do you want to say to Him about all this?
