“The brethren also asked [Abba Agathon], ‘Amongst all good works, which is the virtue which requires the greatest effort?’ He answered, ‘Forgive me, but I think there is no labour greater than that of prayer to God. For every time a man wants to pray, his enemies, the demons, want to prevent him, for they know that it is only by turning him from prayer that they can hinder his journey. Whatever good work a man undertakes, if he perseveres in it, he will attain rest. But prayer is warfare to the last breath.'”
Abba Agathon (360-449) a desert father
There’s a play on words here. The name Agathon in Greek means “good” and is associated with “good works.” So now read it again, notice that the brethren were going to Abba Agathon or “Father Good Works” and asking which one calls for the most effort. Notice his reply.
It reveals the key to staying the course in our journey of generosity. We need to persevere in prayer. If we want to serve as conduits of divine blessing then prayer is the way we stay connected to the Source. Remember: Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.
14 - 03 - 2023, 04:28 PM
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