Greater than the first
7 March 2023
I’ve learned that love varies as regards its intensity. Those who fear God are afraid to sadden him in some way; that’s the first stage. Those whose minds are free of malicious thoughts have reached the second stage, which is greater than the first. Those who feel grace in their soul are at the third stage of love, which is even greater. The fourth stage, perfect love for God, is when they have the grace of the Holy Spirit in their soul and body.
Saint Silouan the Athonite
