Acedia is when I can't bear to grade because I think I've read every student perspective on the topic. I know there will be nothing new said, that I'll have heard it all before, so I can't even begin to make the effort.
Acedia is when the though of changing one more diaper, folding one more shirt, correcting one more subtraction problem seems beyond my power.
Acedia is when the idea of reading something that actually makes me think is so far beyond my reach that I order a romance novel from paperback swap.com. I know I'll be through it when it arrives, but the predictability of the romance becomes both attractive and reinforcing. The is nothing new.
Acedia is when a new job, a new church, a new life that happens anywhere but here becomes so attractive that I can't help spending time looking at online house listings.
When I am in acedia, help me to remember to pray:
"Once again, Lord Jesus Christ, I face the power of acedia.
Against the torrent of oblivion, I plead the blood of Jesus.
When the day stretches out before me and I am tempted to despair, encourage my soul through the rhythms of prayer and work.
When I imagine my life would be easier if only I were somewhere etlse, help me not to flee but to trust your grace in this place.
When I lack attentive care for me neighbor, remind me how you laid down your life for me when I was still an enemy.
Deliver men from acedia, that I might greet that of you in every person and know the place where I am standing to be holy ground.
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner." Prayer from Common Prayer Pocket Edition: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals
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