Daily Devotional: August 25th

Daily Prayer VIII

Oh gods, restrain my taste for excess delight,  

Impose limits on pleasures, in wisdom's light.  

Lest harm befall my body or soul,  

Guide me towards temperance, make me whole. 

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May I not crave boundless material gain, 

 In measured abundance, let my needs attain.  

Moderation in all, the body's requisite,  

Grant me independence, a balanced fit. 

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Shield me from the chains of empty words,  

Grant discernment, where true wisdom girds.  

May I deem useful only words divine,  

That lead to genuine excellence, a path benign. 

Daily Meditation

"He does not attach pre-eminent importance to the acquisition of health or strength or beauty unless they are likely to make him temperate because in keeping the harmony of the body in tune, his constant aim is to preserve the symphony that resides in the soul - which must be done if one wishes to become a true philosopher.”

—Iamblichus

Pursuing strength, beauty, or even health for their own sake is never the foremost goal of the philosopher. These may be good, but they are ultimately good for the body. The philosopher puts that pre-eminent importance on the harmony of the soul, and the well-being of the body should always be secondary to the well-being of the soul.

Monthly Ascesis

Developing a practice of chanting prayers is a powerful and effective way to create stillness in our souls, allowing us to behold God's presence in our lives.

This month, begin chanting the short prayer below. Start with just a few repetitions, for example, 10-15. Then, gradually increase the number over the month. When you reach a higher number of chants, say 100-200 per day, your mind will begin to quiet down, and a sense of stillness in your mind and soul will increase. Following your chants, take a moment to rest in the newfound stillness and keep your mind clear of thoughts for as long as you can.

DOMINE MERCURI, MACTE ESTO

(Do-min-ay Mehr-coor-ree, Mahk-tay Es-tow)

Lord Mercury, Be Blessed

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