(c.306-373) Dubbed “the Harp of the Holy Spirit” for his excellent hymns and writings in praise of God, Ephrem lived in what was Mesopotamia, now called Syria and Turkey. Baptized at 18 and ordained a deacon late in life, he wrote a lot of apologetics, theology, Scripture commentary, and poetry, earning him the recognition as a Doctor of the Church. Saint Ephrem is the patron of spiritual directors.

“Ephrem’s reflection on the theme of God the Creator is important: nothing in creation is isolated and the world, next to Sacred Scripture, is a Bible of God. By using his freedom wrongly, man upsets the cosmic order” (Pope Benedict XVI, General Audience, 11/28/2007). The things we become addicted or attached to in unhealthy ways are not evil by themselves. The balance of right things in the right order (the virtue of temperance) was thrown off by our actions. Noting the unmanageability of such a state (Step 1), we strive to course correct. Acknowledging the world is not lost and God is in control, we turn to Him.

“Virtues are formed by prayer. Prayer preserves temperance. Prayer suppresses anger. Prayer prevents emotions of pride and envy. Prayer draws into the soul the Holy Spirit, and raises man to Heaven” (Saint Ephrem).

Reflection by Brad Farmer