Shoutout to Maximus

In the preface for this passage the author writes, “May his lovely tolerance be an example for us all.” That is so true! It sets a beautiful example of how people could see the world. And, it doesn’t necessarily pertain to only people of Western religions, either.

Maximus said “But we, being unable to apprehend his essence, use the help of sounds and names and pictures … beaten gold and … of plants and rivers.” I’ve heard people say “God made the mountains” or “God is in the mountains” but for some reason it offers up a completely different perspective to think of it as Maximus puts it. Instead of thinking of a man sitting somewhere in heaven making things, it gives a better visual of an essence that permeates all things. It is easier to wrap my mind around that for some reason, which is really nice.

Maximus also goes on to say “Let men know what is divine. Let them know. That is all.” That struck me like a lightening bolt. In my experience, there are far too many people who not only try to let you know what is divine, but they often go to invasive lengths to try to convince you. They do not simply let you know, let you simmer on it and make your own decision about it – instead, they go a little too far and it borders forceful. When that happens, and someone feels a belief forced upon them, they often become close-minded as a personal defense. However, if they were merely informed, their minds would remain open and the message would truly get across. “Only let them know, let them love, let them remember.”