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 turn our minds to him during our actions. Finally, we must turn to him at the completion. This practice is hard and should not discourage us. It will bear fruit. The third means is the mortification of the senses. We must not allow ourselves to satisfy all our desires for seeing and touching and eating and hearing. We must deny ourselves in things when God asks us to do so. We must be faithful to God in trying to practice self-denial if we want Him to be generous with us in prayer.

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 virtual union with God by virtue of the good beginning. Virtual union does not require our constant awareness of God. Finally there is the perfect actual union that arises as God gives Himself to us in a dark and gentle knowledge of himself. This leaves us with a love for Him that embraces God even as we struggle to understand what He is in Himself. We love Him in this cloud of unknowing.