Jesus Christ, the Son of God, have mercy upon me, a sinner.
https://nostrcheck.me/media/public/nostrcheck.me_7704923088418796651691278717.webp
Discussion
Three decades ago, at the lowest aspect of my life, in an isolated western Alaska town, found myself standing in a small Russian Orthodox Church. Taking advantage of the pews I sat lingered in this church searching and wondering, if there was a God? Was it possible to know Him, or to be known by Him?
As I turned to leave this wilderness sanctuary, notice a basket with a sign - "Free to all" containing several small books. I took one. It was no larger than size of a cell phone.
Little did I know that the ground of my spiritual awakening would be tilled that day as I began to pray the "Sinner's Prayer". Learned meaning of "to pray without ceasing" until seed was planted gave way to faith (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
It was difficult to get to a place of "rejoicing in all things", knowing this was will of God for everyone, for "not all have faith" (3 Thessalonians 3:2). I was too consumed with natural sorrows, guilt of life, to see or know God. The Sinner's Prayer prepared my hardened heart to see value of the Divine Sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10).
Thank you for posting this reminder of new beginnings. May He bless you!
Added to my cart.
Thank you for the recommendation - I just put it on my list and will read it once I have finished Preparation for Death which I will be reading until the end.
Its a simple story, rather child like, which was needed during that time of my life. Prayed 'sinners prayer' at least once a day for about 18 months. Needed to know pursuit of God was possible, real, even desirable for myself and especially by others. Never followed into Russian Orthodox traditional faith, but did become orthodox in renewing of my heart and mind towards Christ.
Your book looks intriguing enough now I have something for my cart. :) Blessings on this Lord's day to you and other's.