Psalm 118:
A Commentary
by Saint Theophan the Recluse
(1815-1894)
by Saint John of Kronstadt Press, 2014
Goodreads

Introduction to the 8th octave:

Heth means sin. This will be about methods to pull away form it and endure on the path of godliness.

v.57: when the sinner decides to follow God’s commandments
v.58: asking mercy for his past life
v.59: details on how to follow God’s commandments
v.60: not troubled by obstacles to follow God’s commandments
v.61: friends of sinful life don’t undermine our resolve
v.62: 3 means to fortify in goodness
– night vigils
– contact in word and prayer with God’s fearing people (v. 63)
– giving up of oneself to God’s mercy (v.64)

VERSE 57:
Though art my portion, O Lord;
I said that I would keep Thy law.

= choosing to keep the part of Mary, placing the source of all desires in the Lord alone.
Decision comes as a consequence of all previous verses (changes in soul).
Decision to repent today, not tomorrow.
Then starts an inner fight for life or death, to remain on the right path, with firm resolve.

PLEASE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT THESE NOTES
Any reflection on these quotes?