“You fast, but Satan does not eat. You labour fervently, but Satan never sleeps. The only dimension with which you can outperform Satan is by acquiring humility, for Satan has no humility.” - Moses the Black (330-405), Monastic & Martyr
Moses was born in Ethiopia and became the leader of a large band of violent outlaws in the Nile valley of Egypt. While being pursued by the authorities, Moses hid in a monastery with Egyptian monks. There, he witnessed the peace of Christ through the witness of the monks. Moses repented, was baptized, and became a member of the monastery. He became a respected monastic leader, known for his humility and commitment to nonviolence. Many of his teachings were recorded and preserved. When Moses was old, violent raiders laid siege to his monastery. Moses forbade the monks to defend themselves, but told them to flee for safety. Moses remained behind to stand with his monastery and was murdered by the bandits.
O God, your blessed Son became poor for our sake, and chose the Cross over the kingdoms of this world: Deliver us from an inordinate love of worldly things, that we, inspired by the devotion of your servant Moses, may seek you with singleness of heart, behold your glory by faith, and attain to the riches of your everlasting kingdom, where we shall be united with our Saviour Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Art and bio by Ben Lansing
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