This Icon, "Christ of the Desert" comes to us out of the Syriac Christian Tradition. Syriac tradition does not make the separation of "heart and mind" that we in the West often do - in fact, the heart is seen as the center of both emotions and intellect. One theme that is constantly appearing in Syriac tradition is a longing for Paradise. I know that some people really love the desert. It can be beautiful. But, it can also represent very harsh conditions that are difficult to survive. Christ dwells in the desert places, as well as in the lush places. Today, I'm in prayer for those living in dry harsh realities - those in poverty, those dealing with broken relationships, those who feel like they are lost and are desperate for an oasis. The other day, Bishop Johnson told me she was praying about what more we can do for the poor. A good prayer to have on our hearts often! May Christ of the desert hear our prayers!
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