Chapter 101

On Prostrations and the Jesus Prayer

^101.2.1 The mercy of God be with you!

^101.3.1 You are at peace.[1] It is very pleasant to find in you—often, if not always—those who feel themselves weighed down.[2] Grant them, Lord, to have a joyful heart always!

^101.4.1 I’m very glad that Belichka is finally comforted. I expected as much—that something there would come loose by accident. Glory to God!

^101.5.1 That your husband is concerned, fearing he’ll leave you in a difficult position—he does well. It is his duty to arrange things so that, once he’s gone, you’ll at least be able to live comfortably in your corner. But why give in to despair? You need to arrange it, taking the matter firmly in hand… and that’s the end of it. And to set your mind at ease, it will be enough to say to him then: you see—everything is in order… And I won’t be in trouble!

^101.6.1 But who is this little fellow?! I’ve completely forgotten. I thank him for his prayer. Lord, bless him and teach him everything good!

^101.7.1 If your head prevents you from making prostrations, pray without them. Prostrations are a help to prayer, not prayer itself. Prayer is what the intellect and heart have toward God.[3] Make prostrations from time to time. When you pray, stand on your feet at times, and at times kneel. If you are saying the Jesus Prayer, don’t begin with three thousand repetitions, but with a thousand, or even five hundred—and then increase from there. Don’t go beyond three thousand. Unless there’s a need. But it’s better to complete the appointed number all at once – and at night. During the day, though, in between things... say the same little prayer frequently, not counting.[4]

^101.8.1 May the Lord bless Chernichka to advance spiritually.

^101.9.1 Be saved!

^101.10.1 Your intercessor, Bishop Theophan.

^101.11.1 I’m sending you the October issue of ‘Spiritually Beneficial Reading’.

^101.12.1 I give thanks for your care in warming my feet.