"... This is because, when someone rids himself of all worldly riches, he discovers the place where the grace of God is hidden [within the person at Baptism]. For as the soul advances, divine grace more and more reveals itself to the intellect."
That's pretty interesting. I've never thought of it in terms of actually having the grace already, and not knowing it. I suppose the "trigger mechanism" would have to be important. I will surely give this some thought. Thanks for posting.
"That's pretty interesting. I've never thought of it in terms of actually having the grace already, and not knowing it. I suppose the "trigger mechanism" would have to be important. I will surely give this some thought."
I don't know if there is a "trigger mechanism" as such, FK. You will perhaps remember this snip from the Athonite Archimandrite Sophrony:
"The Holy Spirit comes when we are receptive. He does not compel. He approaches so meekly that we may not even notice. If we would know the Holy Spirit we need to examine ourselves in the light of the Gospel teaching, to detect any other presence which may prevent the Holy Spirit from entering into our souls. We must not wait for God to force Himself on us without our consent. God respects and does not constrain man. It is amazing how God humbles Himself before us. He loves us with a tender love, not haughtily, not with condescension. And when we open our hearts to Him we are overwhelmed by the conviction that He is indeed our Father. The soul then worships in love."