51. These things apply to monks pursuing the life of stillness. But those under obedience to a spiritual father should have only one thought in mind - to depart in nothing from his commands. For if they achieve this, they achieve everything. But if they depart from such Strict obedience they will fail completely in the spiritual life and in every form of virtue.
52. Since you are a friend of Christ, let me give you this further piece of advice. You must aspire to live in exile, free from the conditions and ways of your own country. Do not be caught up by anxiety for your parents or by ties of affection to your relatives. Do not stay in a town but persevere in the wilderness, saying like the prophet: 'Lo, then would I wander far off, and remain in the wilderness' (Ps. 55:7 LXX).
53. Seek out places which are secluded and far from the world. And even if there is a scarcity of essentials in the place you choose, do not be afraid. If your enemies should encircle you like bees (cf. Ps. I 18:12) or pernicious drones, assaulting you and disturbing you with all kinds of thoughts, do not be scared, do not listen to them, do not withdraw from the struggle. Rather, endure patiently, always saying to yourself: 'I waited patiently for the Lord; and He heard me, and listened to my supplication' (Ps. 40: I . LXX). And then you will see the great things God does. His help. His care and all His forethought for your salvation.
54. If you are a friend of Christ you should have as friends persons who are of benefit to you and contribute to your way of life. Let your friends be men of peace, spiritual brethren, holy fathers. It is of such that our Lord was speaking when He said: 'My mother and brethren are those who do the will of My Father who is in heaven' (cf. Matt. 12:49-50).
St. Theodoros The Great Ascetic 1 - 3
SUNDAY BEFORE THEOPHANY
SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS
SUNDAY OF THE FATHERS
SUNDAY OF THE FOREFATHERS
28TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
25TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
24TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
23RD SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
22ND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
21ST SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
20TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
19TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
18TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
SUNDAY BEFORE THE EXALTATION OF THE CROSS
15TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
13TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
11TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
SUNDAY OF THE FATHERS OF THE SIX ECUMENICAL COUNCILS
7TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
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