Lectio et Oratio

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Why is Br Lawrence so important? His great example. We begin the short biography of Br Lawrence that was written in 1692. In the opening note, the author sets Br Lawrence before us as a model of how to combine action and contemplation.

What are the benefits of the practice of the presence of God?

How does one arrive at the practice of the presence of God? Three means are crucial. In chapter 6, Br Lawrence lays out the main ways to arrive at the loving awareness of God's presence. The first is purity of life, that is, chastity and being sincere. The second is the actual practice of the presence of God. We must strive to remember God, however briefly, before we do things. But we also must tu...

How can we truly live in God's presence? When he gives us a gentle loving awareness of himself. In chapter 5 of the Spiritual Maxims, Br Lawrence gives various descriptions of what this being in the presence of God is like. But the most fundamental aspect of these descriptions is that our living in the presence of God is a gift. This awareness of his presence must be asked for from God.

Are there different ways to be in union with God? Yes, in chapter four, Br Lawrence lays out three meaning of union with God: habitual, virtual, and actual. Habitual union depends on being in a state of grace. If we are in a state of grace, we are always in union with God! But this union can become more intense when we begin an action in union with God. Even as this action continues, we remain in...

How do we adore God in this life? By recognizing Him for what He is and recognizing what we are. He is seeking those who adore Him in spirit and in truth. He dwells in our inmost heart, in our soul, in our spirit, the high point of the soul. To adore Him within also requires that we recognize the truth about God.

What is the most important aspect of the spiritual life?  In the second chapter on Spiritual Maxims, Br Lawrence stresses the need to turn to God within our souls at various points in the day. Nothing is as valuable as turning in adoration to the God who dwells in our souls. We do not have to spend much time with Him; but every time we withdraw from all creatures to be with Him, we give Him great...

What is the first spiritual maxim?  Seek to accept all that God sends. Do not be surprised when he allows trials and difficulties. Christ, the Son of God, faced obstacles and trials. These are no sign of a lack of love from God our Father. God is trying to perfect our faith, hope, and love. He wants to make us depend on Him alone.

How do we cling to God in this life? Faith, Hope, and Charity. Nothing is more important in this life than knowing God by faith, relying on Him by hope, and being one with Him in divine love. These theological virtues have God (Theos in Greek) as their object and source. God is the one we believe, trust, and love. He infuses these virtues, these excellences, these readinesses, into our soul. But t...

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We read about the need to seek the union with God in the ordinary events of life. By doing his will through a loving obedience, we find ourselves close to Him. Union with God depends on love. Love involves doing the will of the one we love. The more we live with God, the more we seek His grace, the more we can do His will.

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