St. Basil

Basil (d. 379) is a favorite of one of Sistertech’s clients. It has something to do with his having studied in Athens in the 350’s. He was an ardent advocate of the Nicene formula that quite a few of Sistertech’s clients recite. It’s that bit about the Logos being fully God and fully human. These theological matters are a bit above Sistertech’s pay grade, but she is glad that there are others who do look after such matters.

As with all the saints, Basil was steadfast in his faith. This may be a dicey affair. Humans are often ill-informed and ill-advised. Ask anyone who handles computer support calls! You’ll hear the horror stories. Trust me. So I do not want to suggest that all who are stubborn are saints. Far from it. But Sistertech does admire those who are correct and have the character and courage to remain steadfast even in the face of fierce opposition or under the threat of death.

The Psalm appointed for today highlights Basil’s brand of monastic spirituality. Notice the notes of spiritual intimacy and the confidence that arises from the presence of The One In Charge.

Psalm 139:1-9

¹ O Lord, you have searched me and known me.
² You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
you discern my thoughts from far away.
³ You search out my path and my lying down,
and are acquainted with all my ways.
⁴ Even before a word is on my tongue,
O Lord, you know it completely.
⁵ You hem me in, behind and before,
and lay your hand upon me.
⁶ Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
it is so high that I cannot attain it.

⁷ Where can I go from your spirit?
Or where can I flee from your presence?
⁸ If I ascend to heaven, you are there;
if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there.
⁹ If I take the wings of the morning
and settle at the farthest limits of the sea,