Living Ascetically in the World (Non-Monastic Context)

 

8.2: Living Ascetically in the World (Non-Monastic Context)

Opening Reflection

Many assume that asceticism (self-discipline and spiritual struggle) belongs only to monks and hermits. Yet, the Orthodox tradition affirms that every Christian is called to ascetic struggle, each according to his or her state in life. This lesson explores how the faithful can embrace the spirit of asceticism while living in the midst of family, work, and society—remaining steadfast in Christ’s call without withdrawing into monasteries.

1. Understanding Lay Asceticism

Asceticism is not about physical separation from the world but about inner transformation (theosis—to become like God by grace) amid daily life.

• St. John Chrysostom (c. 347 - 407 AD) said, “Marriage and family life are not an obstacle to holiness but a path to it when lived in Christ.”
• The goal is to sanctify every part of life — home, workplace, relationships — as a living offering to God.

2. Practical Ascetical Disciplines for Laypeople (ምእመን/ናን)

a) Prayer in Daily Life

• Short, consistent prayers during the day (e.g., the Jesus Prayer) to keep the heart connected to God.
• Utilize the liturgical hours as spiritual guides whenever possible—for example, morning, midday, and evening prayers.
• Carrying a prayer rope or using apps for prayer reminders.

b) Fasting and Dietary Discipline

• Follow the Church’s fasting calendar as faithfully as possible, recognizing its benefits for both body and soul, while still meeting your work responsibilities.
• Fasting from more than just food: media, gossip, anger, and impatience (ትእግስት ከማጣት).
• Offering small sacrifices as acts of love for others.

c) Simplicity and Detachment

• Living within one’s means, avoiding materialism, and practicing generosity.
• Choosing simplicity in possessions, time commitments, and entertainment.
• Set aside time for silence and reflection, even if only for a few minutes.

3. The Challenge of the World and How to Overcome It

The world often promotes busyness, self-enjoyment, and self-centeredness, which conflict with ascetical values.

• St. Isaac the Syrian (c. 613 – 700 AD) teaches, “Do not be deceived (መታለል) by the world’s temptations (ፈተናዎች), for they pass like shadows.”
• Overcoming this requires setting intentional boundaries—managing technology, work hours, and social media wisely. The goal is to limit their influence, not to avoid them entirely.
• Developing spiritual accountability with a spiritual father helps you remain steadfast on your path.

4. Balancing Responsibilities with Ascetic Growth

• Recognize that family and work are also places of holiness.
• Patience and humility in daily relationships are ascetical battles.
• Use ordinary tasks as opportunities for prayer—such as praying the Jesus Prayer while cooking, traveling, or engaging in other daily activities.

Colossians 3:23 writes, “ለሰው ሳይሆን ለጌታ እንደምታደርጉ፥ የምታደርጉትን ሁሉ በትጋት አድርጉት።”

5. Strengthening Parish and Community Life

   ·  Engage actively in parish (ደብር) life, offering your skills, time, or resources according to your ability.

   ·  Share both struggles and joys of your ascetical journey with trusted spiritual friends for encouragement and accountability.

  ·  Participate regularly in church services—especially the Divine Liturgy (ቅዳሴ) and the sacraments—as essential nourishment for your spiritual growth.

6. Conclusion: Asceticism as a Way of Life for All

Asceticism is a calling for every Christian, not only for monks. By integrating prayer, fasting, simplicity, and reflection into daily routines, we can sanctify our homes, work, and relationships. Life’s challenges—busyness, distractions, and temptations—become opportunities to grow in patience, humility, and spiritual vigilance. With accountability and active participation in the Church, ordinary life transforms into a living offering to God. As St. Isaac the Syrian reminds us, a heart steadfast in God is strengthened to rise above temptations, turning ordinary life into a sanctuary (ቤተ መቅደስ) of divine presence.

Romans 12:1 states, “…ሰውነታችሁን እግዚአብሔርን ደስ የሚያሰኝና ሕያው ቅዱስም መሥዋዕት አድርጋችሁ ታቀርቡ ዘንድ በእግዚአብሔር ርኅራኄ እለምናችኋለሁ፥ እርሱም ለአእምሮ የሚመች አገልግሎታችሁ ነው።”

Reflection Questions

1. What are my greatest challenges in living ascetically in my daily life?
2. How can I incorporate short prayers and fasting into my current routine?
3. Who can support me spiritually in my journey?

Closing Prayer

 Lord Jesus Christ, grant us the grace to live faithfully amid the trials of the world. Teach our hearts to rise above passing temptations, to sanctify every daily task, and to seek Your presence in all things. Strengthen us with steadfast prayer, humble obedience, and boundless love, that our lives may shine as living offerings, pleasing and holy before You, through the prayers of Your holy Mother and all the saints. Amen.