Sometimes in the simplest teachings is found the greatest wisdom. Such is true in tonight‘s readings from The Evergetinos. The focus is on work, how we engage in it and also how we engage others with whom we work.
 


What becomes evident is that the Christian works in a distinctive fashion. Above all charity is to guide the manner in which we work, our diligence, and also the way we treat others. Whether they are good workers or not, we do not compare ourselves to them or the quality of our labor. Nor do we hold up the weakness or defects of people for others to see and so diminish their character.
 


It is for this reason that our spiritual work must always take precedence over and shape the work that we do within the world. We take up all things from the hand of God. And in doing, so we keep before our eyes the dignity of the other. There is nothing that we could produce within this world and nothing that we could accomplish that has more value than our own soul or that of others. Love and humility in all things!
 
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Text of chat during the group:
 

00:06:16 Tracey Fredman: I've been thinking a lot about the question "How is your prayer life?" - what would be a proper response?
 
00:09:48 sharonfisher: I would respond that it’s in fits and starts — frequent during the day but not very structured. I need to do better.
 
00:25:39 Steve Yu: Is the Constitutions of the Holy Apostles another title for the Didache?
 
00:28:46 Anthony: I think the Constitutions are on librivox app
 
00:28:54 Steve Yu: Reacted to "I think the Constitu…" with ?
 
00:29:00 Steve Yu: Replying to "I think the Constitu…"
Thanks!
 
00:29:03 Adam Paige: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apostolic_Constitutions
 
00:29:09 Steve Yu: Reacted to "https://en.m.wikiped…" with ?
 
00:29:10 Anthony: Also latin and slavonic
 
00:29:33 Steve Yu: Replying to "https://en.m.wikiped…"
Thanks!
 
00:30:07 Kevin Burke: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1493752200?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
 
00:36:50 Adam Paige: Reacted to "Thanks!" with ?
 
00:37:26 Rachel: Whoah
 
00:37:49 Steve Yu: Reacted to "https://www.amazon.c…" with ?
 
00:38:01 Steve Yu: Replying to "https://www.amazon.c…"
Thanks much!
 
00:39:00 Rachel: So, I would have trouble having a poker face in that situation. I love the grace I have seen in others who handle these things, even great things in stride. The humility it takes to cover anothers faults and mistakes
 
00:46:22 Rachel: I do lol
 
00:52:28 Anthony: These men have complete freedom but choose to discipline their lives for the vision of something better than a "Batchelor life."
 
00:52:45 Vanessa: Reacted to "These men have compl..." with ?
 
01:00:55 Anthony: An interesting book: "Catholicism, Protestantism and Capitalism" by Amintore Fanfani
 
01:01:29 Rachel: Some nuns who gave a talk to a prayer group a talk spoke about guarding oneself from touching in a layperson's life as well. It seems strange on the surface to the world. There are naturally affectionate people who want always to hug others. As an introvert I have admires the way in which the nuns held themselves. When we are not intruding on another's space, in charity or not, it is a way in which we can respect the image of God in the other. In the context of the talk, which was given about friendships and the life of prayer, I could see how there are many behaviors that on the surface seem charitable but are subtly self serving. 
The actions lack true humility and charity.
 
01:04:10 Liz D: Are there any prerequisites to praying the Prayer of the Heart, also known as the "Jesus Prayer.” mentioned as a way to pray in the morning? Also, can we pray this way during work times? I  read an admonition from one of the Fathers that it can be ill-advised to pray this prayer if one is not ready for it. Perhaps it had to do with certain breathing while praying. I’m sorry I don’t recall the exact quote or admonition. How may I discern if ready to try this prayer as a non-monastic Catholic? I