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

VERSE 58:
I entreated Thy countenance with my whole heart:
Have mercy on me according to Thy word.

There’s no means of effacing past sins, so recourse to God’s Mercy.
Temptation of despair for our past sins.

There is no sin able to overcome God’s mercy.
p.159

Wow, powerful statement!

With my whole heart = with the fullness of repentant feelings

Contrite repentance forms the background of a God-pleasing life.
p.160

VERSE 59:
I have thought on Thy ways,
and I have turned my feet back to Thy testimonies.

Re-reading this after a time of retreat. This is definitely what happens when you are able to take some time of silence away from daily chores.

Lament in your heart [about your sins], but with your other members, do works of righteousness, where before they were unrighteous.
p.161

Neat passage on commandments for each body part! In case you think Orthodox spirituality is not concrete enough, this is for you:

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