Practice the Presence
Body
Years ago, I discovered the small book “The Practice of the Presence of God”, by Brother Lawrence. The author, a 17th century monk in France, was a simple man, a former battlewounded soldier who entered the monastery in middle age and became a cook there. I’ve never forgotten the valuable message of the writing, which Lawrence expressed as continuously experiencing God amidst in his work in the kitchen, and “turning his little omelet in the pan for the love of God.” In essence, Lawrence’s way of life was abiding always with God, and communing with God no matter what small task he was doing. He claimed to do everything, even the menial tasks, all for the love of God. The brother took to heart Jesus’ charge in John’s Gospel to “Abide in me,” and Paul’s instruction to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 15:16-18).