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.