Church Fathers, Day Eighty-Four: St. John Cassian tells us to learn practice before theory

Learn practice before theory

The abbot Nesteros tells St. John Cassian that he needs to learn practice before he can tackle theory. You can’t reach the highest peak if the first step isn’t in place.

Whoever would arrive at this theoretical knowledge must first pursue practical knowledge with all his might and main. For this practical knowledge can be acquired without theoretical, but theoretical cannot possibly be gained without practical. There are certain stages, so distinct, and arranged in such a way that our humility may be able to mount on high; and if these follow each other in turn in the order I have mentioned, we can reach to a height to which we could not fly if the first step were missing.

In vain then does anyone strive for the vision of God who does not shun the stains of sins, “because wisdom will not enter a deceitful soul, nor dwell in a body enslaved to sin” (Wisdom 1:4).

–St. John Cassian, Conferences, 14.2

IN GOD’S PRESENCE, CONSIDER . . .

Do I have a regular prayer time set aside? Do I confess regularly?

What else do I need to do to build up my practice?

CLOSING PRAYER

Lord, give me your blessing, and make me fit for a life dedicated to your service.

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