Catholic Audiobook in a Month Podcast

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 28~Conclusion

In the Book’s concluding podcast, William Wilson summarizes the key teachings of Br. Lawrence: practicing the presence, abandonment, distractions, faith, suffering & sickness, and more. William also previews next month’s book.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 27~Life: Conclusion

As we draw nearer to the end of B’r. Lawrence’s life, we witness a man who embraces suffering as a sacred call, transforming pain into a vehicle for divine love. He reflects on his singular desire: to suffer for the love of God. In a remarkable testament to his faith, he chooses to endure the agony of illness with a spirit of gratitude. Even when he experiences sharp, debilitating pain, his fervor for God remains undiminished. He appreciates suffering, stating, “My only uneasiness is that I do not suffer,” demonstrating an extraordinary alignment of his will with the Divine.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 26~Life: V

The episode further uncovers the physical tribulations that Nicolas faced, particularly his battles with gout and other debilitating illnesses. His acceptance of suffering is shown as he engages in conversations with his physician, revealing his unique perspective on life and death. He notably expressed a poignant sentiment: "Ah, sir, your remedies succeed too well. You have delayed my happiness," demonstrating his longing for divine union over the prolongation of earthly existence. In a world often grappling with the fear of death, Nicolas's attitude serves as a testament to faith’s capacity to empower and reassure.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 25~Life: IV

Brother Lawrence's profound faith anchored his spiritual journey. It was this faith that kindled a burning desire within him to seek God above all, leading him to perceive created things as trivial in comparison to divine love. This faith transcended mere intellectual assent and deepened his reverence for holy mysteries, particularly for the sacrament of the altar, where the unseen presence of Christ reigns.
Hope, a vital offshoot of his faith, cultivated in Brother Lawrence a radical trust in God’s mercy and providence. With unwavering confidence, he embraced life's uncertainties, leaning not on his strength but wholly on divine support. In moments of trial, he embodies resilience, drawing strength from his belief that God’s grace is sufficient for every challenge.
Lastly, charity emerges as the crown of his virtues, transforming his heart into a vessel of divine love. Brother Lawrence’s love for God was pure and disinterested; his motivations were rooted not in a desire for reward or fear of punishment but in a genuine yearning for God’s glory. Even in the throes of his final illness, his spirit remains free—a testament to his total abandonment to the Divine will.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 24~Life: III

Throughout this episode, you will hear about Br. Lawrence’s physical suffering—a painful ulcer on his leg that led to his temporary removal from the kitchen where he had worked diligently for thirty years. But rather than seeing this as a setback, Br. Lawrence viewed this shift in his assignment as an opportunity to deepen his relationship with God.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 23~Life: II

Brother Lawrence struggled during the early years of his religious life, a span where sorrow and desolation marked his spiritual pursuits. He was said to have no true taste for prayer and experienced nights filled with anguish at the foot of the holy altar—where his faith remained his only support. This testament to fortitude resonates deeply, reminding us of the night faced by saints such as St. John of the Cross. In a pivotal moment, Br. Lawrence arrives at a resolution of total abandonment—his heart crystallizing around a singular goal: to remain affectionately united to the will of God, making this unwavering dedication his entirety.
For more on the theme of abandonment, check out camp.fm/abandonment.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 22~Life: I

William shares about uncovering a rare edition of Brother Lawrence's writings from 1727, a remarkable find considering it was only 36 years after his death. (Life of Nicolas Herman-1727)  It's a period marked by the Counter-Reformation under the reign of Louis XV, with the allure of religious fervor beginning to wane among the French nobility, giving way to the rationalism of the Enlightenment. Here, we witness the contrast in values, as Brother Lawrence’s emphasis on inner experience, simplicity, and faith stands in opposition to the intellectual coldness of his era.
The narrative introduces us to Nicholas Hermann, whose humble origins and upbringing provided him with a strong foundation of virtue and spiritual awareness. His story progresses from a soldier caught in the tides of conflict to a man of contemplative faith. Faced with existential threats and the chaos of warfare, his unwavering patience and tranquility shine as exemplars of true Christian character, ultimately leading him to abandon his military exploits for a higher calling. His acceptance of near-death experiences and imprisonment reveals a profound indifference to worldly fears, rooted in a well-formed conscience and a deep reliance on God’s omnipotence.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 21~Letters: 14-16

In the fourteenth letter, Brother Lawrence writes to express his deep concern for Rev. Mother’s prolonged suffering. He encourages her to shift her perspective, seeing her trials as divine tokens of God's love. Rather than seeking relief through human remedies, he advises her to wholly surrender her anguish into the hands of God, trusting that her resignation may bring her healing.
Moving to the fifteenth letter, Brother Lawrence shares his own experiences of intense suffering. He discloses that during his tribulations, rather than praying for relief, he sought the strength to endure his pain with grace and love. He reflects on the joy of suffering alongside God, suggesting that true paradise is found in communion with Him, even amidst trials.
In the sixteenth letter, Brother Lawrence explores the concept that everything God allows in our lives—both joys and sorrows—is for our ultimate good. He invites us to view our afflictions through the lens of God’s profound love, recognizing that understanding this love lessens the bitterness of our trials. He calls us to prioritize knowing God above all else, arguing that deepening this knowledge naturally leads to a more fervent love for Him, which transcends our circumstances.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 20~Letters: 11-13

Brother Lawrence begins his Eleventh Letter to Madame with a heartfelt note on the importance of trusting in God at all times. He emphasizes that confidence in God is essential, especially during moments of loss and suffering. The letter encourages Madame to view her reliance on God as a nurturing friendship, reassuring her that divine love is paramount above all earthly attachments.
Moving to the Twelfth Letter, Brother Lawrence shifts focus to the theme of suffering. He shares his deep conviction that, rather than seeking freedom from difficulties, one should seek patience and strength to endure them. His words reveal an understanding of suffering as a divine favor rather than merely a trial. He challenges the reader's perspective on illness and pain, urging them to accept these experiences as merciful gifts from God that lead to spiritual growth.
In the Thirteenth Letter, Br. Lawrence emphasizes the transformative power of God's presence in the face of pain. He posits that regular communion with God can alleviate the burdens of bodily afflictions and spiritual distress. He encourages faithful listeners to engage in constant conversation with God, even in their suffering, suggesting that such communication reinforces one's reliance on the Lord. Through faith, he suggests, we can access a profound peace that overshadows physical discomfort and emotional turmoil.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 19~Letters: 7-10

This episode covers Letters 7 through 10:
Letter 7: Brother Lawrence begins with an earnest call to seek the invaluable treasures of the gospel.
Letter 8: Brother Lawrence extends encouragement to his friends, urging them to cultivate a continual awareness of God.
Letter 9: Brother Lawrence addresses a common struggle that many believers face: wandering thoughts during prayer.
Letter 10: Brother Lawrence candidly speaks about the essence of life as solely aimed at pleasing God.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 18~Letter: 6

Today you will hear Letter 6, in which Brother Lawrence defends his approach to spiritual practice, emphasizing a life dedicated to the constant awareness of God's presence.
Brother Lawrence shares his profound journey, illustrating not only the challenges he faced in the early years of his spiritual quest but also the transformative power of humility and faith. In his communication with a Reverend Father, he confesses that for a decade, he grappled with feelings of inadequacy and concern over his dedication to God. Despite such struggles, he discovered a deeper relationship with the divine, characterized by surrender and simple faith. He speaks candidly about abandoning traditional devotions that did not resonate with him, choosing instead to cultivate a quiet and habitual attentiveness to God, akin to "holy inactivity."

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 17~Letters: 4-5

The fourth letter, addressed to a Reverend Mother, reveals Brother Lawrence's wisdom on the appropriate use of devotional practices. While acknowledging the importance of these practices as pathways to experiencing God’s presence, he emphasizes that they should not become ends in themselves. Instead, he guides us to focus on maintaining a heart that rests in the Divine, asserting that the true exercise of devotion involves a heartfelt connection with God, free from the constraints of ritualism.
In the fifth letter to Madame, Brother Lawrence extends his heartfelt counsel, urging her to shift her focus towards a life dedicated to worshiping God. He gently reminds her that divine companionship can be nurtured even amidst daily responsibilities; one does not need to confine their prayers to the church. Imagery of the heart as a personal oratory is used beautifully to convey how one can cultivate a constant awareness of God in any situation.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 16~Letters: 2-3

In the second letter,  which we'll read today, Brother Lawrence recounts the sentiments of a “fellow member” of their society, who has dedicated over forty years to religious life. (Really it’s him!) This devout individual exemplifies the essence of practicing the presence of God, illustrating how consistent devotion results in grace. We learn how this person’s soul is perpetually nourished by the divine, often feeling the presence of God so intensely that it manifests as overwhelming joy. However, Brother Lawrence cautions us about our own blindness, urging us to recognize the abundance of God's treasures and not to be satisfied with mere fleeting feelings.
In the third letter, Brother Lawrence  draws our attention back to the core theme of God's presence. Here, we hear a gentle exhortation to cultivate a heart that is singularly devoted to God. He implores that we strive to always keep our hearts free of distractions, for in such emptiness, God can fill us abundantly. He expresses that the sweetest and most delightful life is found in walking continually with God, yet stresses that this relationship should be pursued not for pleasure, but out of a deep love and obligation to God.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 15~Letters: Preface & 1st

This episode marks a transition as we shift from third-person accounts of Brother Lawrence's spirituality to his own first-person reflections captured in his letters.
We begin with the preface, originally penned in 1692, which sets the stage by acknowledging the legacy of the Carmelites and highlighting Brother Lawrence, who humbly sought to avoid the spotlight during his life. The preface describes how, despite his humility, Providence has chosen to spotlight his saintliness posthumously, making his teachings accessible to those yearning for a deeper understanding of divine intimacy. Brother Lawrence’s letters, filled with devotion and practicality, have been compiled to share with a wider audience, inviting all Christians to glean wisdom from his practice of constant communion with God.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 14~Conversation 4

In today's episode Brother Lawrence expounds on the act of praising, adoring, and loving God without ceasing, urging us not to be dismayed by our shortcomings. He reassures us that regardless of our failures, God's grace is ever available, provided we remain mindful of His presence. Our sanctification lies not in changing our actions but in performing our daily duties and common tasks for God's glory. Here, we learn the importance of recognizing that the path to God is not bound by traditional notions of prayer but is woven into the fabric of our everyday actions, performed with pure intention and love.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 13~Conversations-2 (cont’d) and 3

In this episode, Brother Lawrence shares that all bodily mortifications hold little value unless they lead to a true union with God. This notion serves as a pivotal theme throughout the conversations; our actions should be rooted in love for God, transforming even the most mundane tasks into opportunities for divine communion. You’ll hear about Brother Lawrence’s contentment in various life situations, illustrating that true peace comes from performing one’s duties for the love of God, irrespective of external circumstances. His reflections remind us that the time set apart for prayer should not differ from our everyday engagements, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a constant connection with God throughout our lives.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 12~Conversations-1 & 2

In today's episode, we delve into Conversation 1 and the first half of Conversation 2—which outlines Brother Lawrence's transformative journey toward understanding God’s providence through the imagery and symbolism of a tree. This tree becomes a pivotal emblem of Brother Lawrence's faith.
The podcast begins by setting the stage for Brother Lawrence’s initially awkward yet deeply spiritual existence. He shares with Beaufort, his compiler, about how he encountered God’s grace at the tender age of eighteen when he observed a leafless tree in winter. This seemingly simple observation ignited a profound understanding of hope, growth, and divine care—key components in unveiling the overarching providence and power of God in our lives.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 11~The Gathered Thoughts of Br. Lawrence-Part II

In today's episode, we delve into the second part of “The Gathered Thoughts of Brother Lawrence,” Brother Lawrence speaks to the insufficiency of human understanding and articulation in grasping the infinite perfection of God. He expresses a yearning that resonates deep within many believers—a desire for a relational experience that transcends mere intellectual knowledge. The narrative emphasizes that it is through faith that we can illuminate our spirits and gain deeper insights into our Creator. For Brother Lawrence, faith stands as the quintessential virtue that opens the door to divine revelation and a rich understanding of God’s love, which can only be truly known through experience rather than scholarly pursuits.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 10~The Gathered Thoughts of Br. Lawrence-Part I

Today, we delve into a unique section titled “The Gathered Thoughts of Brother Lawrence”, sourced from a rare 1907 edition of his Spiritual Maxims. This reading aims to inspire listeners with the contemplative essence of Brother Lawrence's thoughts, closely aligning with themes found in Abandonment to Divine Providence. For additional insights, visit https://camp.fm/abandonment .
In this episode, listeners will encounter the sentiment that “the whole world seems to be no longer real." Brother Lawrence juxtaposes the vastness and majesty of the infinite being with the simple acts of daily responsibility, illustrated poignantly by his return to the kitchen. This blending of the divine and the mundane serves as a reminder that our spiritual journey unfolds in the very places we serve, offering an extraordinary meditation on how God’s presence permeates our ordinary lives.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 9~The Ways of Br. Lawrence-Part V

Today marks Day 9 of  The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence. We read the concluding section of “The Ways of Brother Lawrence”, focusing on the profound theme of renouncing worldly attachments and emphasizing that this sacred practice is accessible to everyone, transcending the confines of cloistered life.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 8~The Ways of Br. Lawrence-Part IV

Preparing for death is a daunting task for many, yet Brother Lawrence’s approach is nothing short of inspirational. He meets this final journey with equanimity, free from anxiety. His willingness to embrace suffering for the love of God brings to mind the experiences of St. Thérèse during her own health struggles. Brother Lawrence’s reflections underscore a total surrender to divine will, portraying a heart that finds joy even amid trials. He remarks that true faith, at times, seems swallowed up by the direct experience of divine presence—perhaps a glimpse into the spiritual marriage that St. Teresa of Avila eloquently articulated.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 7~The Ways of Br. Lawrence-Part III

This episode recounts a poignant moment from Brother Lawrence's life when confronted with a personal disappointment. His ability to accept the authority of his superiors and the outcomes of their decisions speaks volumes about his indifference and trust in God's plan. Listeners will learn of his encounter with a saintly visitor when he was ill, illustrating that his heart was unclouded by earthly attachments, ready to accept whatever God willed.
In his practice of spirituality, Brother Lawrence demonstrated that all tasks, no matter how humble, are opportunities to experience and love God. He believed that the greater the sacrifice at hand, the more genuine the love expressed through that offering. His example is a testament to the fact that God values not the scope of our actions, but the heartfelt intent behind them.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 6~The Ways of Br. Lawrence-Part II

The reading unfolds with Brother Lawrence's metaphor of a leafless tree, which symbolizes a critical moment in his spiritual journey. This imagery foreshadows revelations to come in future episodes and captures the essence of finding God in the simplicity of everyday life. He reveals the challenges posed by a wandering mind, and encourages tranquility amidst chaos, asserting that initial struggles with prayer and presence are normal. As Brother Lawrence navigates through these mental disturbances, he teaches the importance of calmness and perseverance in steering one's focus back to God’s presence.
Listeners will appreciate the echo of St. Teresa of Avila’s teaching that “prayer is not to think much, but to love much,” resonating with Brother Lawrence’s assertion that love, not thoughts, forms the crux of spiritual connection. This essential truth aligns with the idea that small, loving actions hold great value in the eyes of God, reinforcing a lesson attributed to Mother Teresa: to accomplish little things with great love.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 5~The Ways of Br. Lawrence-Part I

In this episode, we delve deep into the essence of Brother Lawrence's teachings through the first part of “The Ways of Brother Lawrence,” illuminating his character and insights into a living faith.
Brother Lawrence’s doctrine is not merely theoretical; it is a call to engage with God in every moment of our lives. He compels us to weave our duty to worship and love God into our daily actions. The episode showcases how his perspective on faith is illuminated by an unwavering commitment, urging us to run towards God, spurred by an innate love that transcends mere obligation.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 4~Spiritual Maxims 5-6

This episode features Spiritual Maxims 5 and 6, we look at the framework established by Brother Lawrence regarding how we can draw closer to God in our daily lives. We also hear the conclusion of a cliffhanger left from the last episode, examining the crucial means by which we can attain the divine presence of God in each moment.
First and foremost, Brother Lawrence emphasizes the importance of leading a life of great purity. Furthermore, it's vital to embrace humility when we falter, seeking forgiveness sincerely and promptly. The second maxim insists on the necessity of fixing one's soul’s gaze on God through unwavering faith.
Providing a practical outline, Brother Lawrence introduces essential practices for cultivating a habit of looking towards God. This includes engaging in spontaneous prayers that connect one’s heart to the divine before embarking on daily tasks. Br. Lawrence reminds us of the need for patience in this spiritual endeavor; established habits take time and practice to develop. He highlights that despite initial difficulties, the joy and significant spiritual transformation that follows make the practice worthwhile.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 3~Spiritual Maxims 2-4

In today’s episode, we dive into Day 3 of The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence, where we will explore Spiritual Maxims 2-4.
We begin with discussion on the essence of worshiping God in spirit and in truth. We are called to confront our own shortcomings and the ways in which we stray from His will. The act of worship becomes a sincere offering that reflects our true selves and our relationship with the divine. This aspect of worship is crucial because it requires practice — it is through our consistent efforts that we come to embody a natural and heartfelt devotion to God.
Next, we delve into the theme of the union of soul with God, which Brother Lawrence explains through three degrees. The first degree is a general union, achieved by grace. The second is a virtual union, wherein actions consciously unite us with God. But it is the third degree, the actual union, that is the most profound—it represents an unbreakable connection and is described as a state of being that transcends fleeting emotions. Here, the soul is not passive but actively engaged in a relationship so deep and radiant that it transforms our entire existence. Br. Lawrence describes this union as a delightful interplay of joy and reverence that lifts our souls beyond earthly concerns, emphasizing the necessity of detaching ourselves from worldly pleasures to fully experience this divine love.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 2~Spiritual Maxim 1

Today, you will hear Day Two of The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence, focusing on the Introduction to Spiritual Maxims and Maxim Number One.  The introduction lays down four foundational points: the importance of regarding God in all our actions, the inevitable adversities we face as part of our spiritual journey, the notion that these trials serve our ultimate good, and the vital dependence of the soul on divine grace in every moment.
As we move into Maxim Number One, Brother Lawrence outlines necessary practices for attaining a rich spiritual life. He emphasizes six key practices aimed at deepening our relationship with the divine: first, the practice of the presence of God—an invitation to engage in a loving dialogue with Him at all times; second, approaching this conversation without strict methods or rules; third, conducting all actions thoughtfully and intentionally; fourth, turning to God from the depths of our being, reminiscent of St. Teresa's prayer of recollection; fifth, ensuring our acts of worship are guided by faith; and finally, the importance of self-examination to stay mindful of our shortcomings and spiritual growth.

The Practice of the Presence of God: Day 1~Preface

Today is Day One of our exploration of The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence. In today's episode, we explore the fundamental themes of Brother Lawrence's teachings, emphasizing the importance of practicing God’s presence in our daily lives.
Brother Lawrence emphasizes that establishing this presence involves a continuous dialogue with God, an ongoing conversation interspersed throughout our daily activities. As we progress through this audiobook, you'll hear how this practice evolves into what he describes as 'simple attention,' derived from reflections in his sixth letter. This aspect of his teaching reminds us that cultivating such a habit is not instantaneous; it requires dedication and perseverance, with Brother Lawrence himself acknowledging that it took him nearly a decade to form this spiritual discipline.
Another key theme that emerges is the notion of abandonment to God’s providence. This echoes sentiments we explored last month. Brother Lawrence implores us to find satisfaction in the circumstances God has placed us in, encouraging us to resign ourselves completely to His will. He shares that if we could grasp the depth of God’s love, we would be prepared to receive both life's joys and trials with an equal sense of peace and openness. This idea of resignation not only fosters a deeper relationship with God but also invites us to navigate through life's inevitable ups and downs with grace.