SAINT OF THE DAY -
Saint Simeon Stylites –
July 27, 2024 -
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Today, we commemorate the feast of Saint Simeon Stylites, a saint whose life exemplifies extraordinary dedication to faith and asceticism. Born around 390 AD in Sis, a town in the Roman province of Cilicia (modern-day Turkey), Saint Simeon is best known for his radical form of monastic life, which led him to live atop a pillar for 37 years.
Saint Simeon Stylites, whose name derives from the Greek word "stylos" meaning pillar, began his journey of faith in a typical monastic setting. However, his fervor and desire for a deeper connection with God led him to seek a more austere form of living. He constructed a small platform atop a pillar, initially nine feet high, which he later raised to approximately 50 feet. From this vantage point, he prayed, fasted, and preached, becoming a living testament to the power of faith and endurance.
While the image of a man living atop a pillar might seem extreme to us today, Saint Simeon's motivation was rooted in his profound love for God and his desire to separate himself from worldly distractions. His life was not one of isolation but of profound interaction. People from all walks of life visited him to seek counsel, healing, and inspiration. He became a beacon of hope and a spiritual guide for many.
A lesser-known aspect of Saint Simeon's life is his significant influence on the Christian monastic tradition. His commitment to a life of penance and prayer inspired the establishment of similar forms of asceticism throughout the Christian world. His example encouraged others to pursue holiness with the same fervor and dedication.
Saint Simeon is also known for his powerful and humble statements. One such statement that resonates deeply is: "If I have received any grace, it is solely through the mercy of God and not through my own merit." This reflection captures his humility and unwavering faith, reminding us that our achievements in faith are gifts from God, not personal accomplishments.
In terms of achievements, Saint Simeon's impact was profound. He demonstrated that a life devoted to God can transcend physical limitations and inspire countless others. His influence extended beyond his lifetime, shaping Christian thought and monastic practices for centuries.
As we reflect on the life of Saint Simeon Stylites, let us consider how we can incorporate his lessons into our modern lives. While we may not be called to live atop a pillar, we can strive to create spaces of contemplation and prayer in our daily routines. We can seek to deepen our relationship with God, finding moments of silence and reflection amid the busyness of life.
Let us now close in prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the extraordinary example of Saint Simeon Stylites. His unwavering dedication to a life of prayer and penance inspires us to seek a deeper relationship with You. Grant us the grace to find moments of silence and reflection in our daily lives, drawing closer to You in all that we do. May we, like Saint Simeon, recognize that any grace we receive is through Your mercy and love. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Saint Simeon Stylites, pray for us.
A Friend Of OUR LADY
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