Lent with the Early Church Fathers

Lent with the Early Church Fathers

Lent with the Early Church Fathers

A daily post from Tom Bandy 

Based on Day by Day with the Early Church Fathers (Eds. Christopher D. Hudson, J. Alan Sharrer, and Lindsay Vanker: Hendrickson Press, 1999) 

Ash Wednesday 

Be still!

Cyril of Jerusalem 

The time for confession is now. Confess what you have done in word or action, by day or by night. Confess well it is the acceptable time and receive heavenly treasure in the day of salvation. Blot out every earthly care from your mind, for you are running for your soul. You are completely forsaking the things of the world. But the things you are forsaking our little, while what the Lord is giving is great. Forsake present things, and trust in the things to come. 

Have you run in circles and busied yourself in vain with worldly things? “Be still, and know that I am God,” Scripture said. Excuse yourself from saying many useless words. Don’t backbite or willingly listen to backbiters. Rather, promptly run to prayer. In exercising self denial, show that your heart is strong. Cleanse your vessel so that you can receive grace more abundantly. For although remission of sins is communion with the Holy Ghost is given in proportion to each person’s faith. If you have worked little, you receive little. But if you work hard, the reward is great!

TGB: Confession is not about guilt. It is about vulnerability. Confession requires courage. Now is the time to set aside all mythologies about yourself … all the ego trips and illusions. Say nothing. Just be in the presence of God, as you would standing before a great wave of grace. Let it wash over you, even if that means roiling in the sand and gasping for breath.