As day fades into night, let us consider one of the most luminous lights of ancient Orthodox monasticism – Saint Macarius the Great of Egypt. Known for his ascetic life of solitude and unceasing prayer in the 4th-century deserts of Scetis, Macarius sought complete devotion to God by renouncing earthly comforts and cultivating stillness. His life and writings reflect powerful spiritual wisdom for seekers of all ages. Before retiring, let us join in an evening prayer inspired by this desert Father’s singular journey of faith.
Overview of Saint Macarius’ Life
Macarius was born in Egypt around 300 A.D. to a modest family. After a brief marriage ended by his wife’s untimely death, he committed fully to monasticism, finding an experienced Elder to guide him in rigorous ascetic practices in the wilderness. Taking up weaving baskets in solitude, silence, fasting, and prayer, Macarius attained profound inner stillness and insight. His compassion made him a sought-after priest and teacher to fellow monks.
At age 40, he fled deeper into the desert for more seclusion, living in a cave near the Red Sea. There he combated demonic attacks through constant invocation of Christ’s name. As his contemporary St. Anthony lay dying, he passed the cloak and staff to Macarius, symbolic of passing the torch to the next generation of desert monastics. Macarius carried on St. Anthony’s legacy with humility until his repose around 390 A.D.
Teachings and Wisdom
Macarius left a treasury of writings reflecting his learnings on the spiritual journey. A few key themes shine through rigorous asceticism to cleanse the soul’s impurities; cultivating imperturbability by releasing attachments; and praying without ceasing. His teachings remind us that each soul’s readiness to receive God’s grace depends on its purity of heart and perseverance in the spiritual disciplines.
Prayer Before Sleeping Saint Macarius The Great
Let us bring these sacred teachings to mind as we settle down to sleep, following Macarius’ example by ending our day by offering our soul to the care of our Creator, letting go of troubles, and finding rest in God’s presence.
“Lord Jesus Christ, as night draws near, we conclude this day and prepare for restful renewal with You, our eternal source of peace.
We thank You for the gift of this life, for the blessings we received and the opportunities to grow in wisdom and kindness. Forgive us for words and deeds which fell short of Your perfect example.
As Your beloved servant Macarius sought You in the silence of the desert night, teach us to seek You with our whole hearts. Help us detach from the worries of the world to find serenity in Your presence.
May we follow Saint Macarius’ path of releasing earthly attachments, carrying our cross with patience and hope, keeping our eyes fixed on You alone.
Purify our souls of all that separates us from Your love. Unite our hearts and minds to You as we rest in stillness beneath Your wings.
Into Your hands we entrust our spirits until dawn, when we will rise again to praise Your Holy Name.”
Amen.
