Elder Ephraim on Prayer
A person’s salvation depends on prayer, for this is what, unites him to God and brings him near to God. When he is near God, it is natural for him not to deviate from the right and moral road because he pays attention to every step he takes…
Prayer is the means by which we are united very closely to God. By “prayer,” we do not mean just praying now and then in front of the icons, but along with this, which we must do, we use ten words of prayer, which we say when we work, when we eat, when we sit… “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me.”
What is more beautiful than to entreat Christ at. every moment and to say His Holy name with these lips of clay? Is there any greater honor?
These words contain our whole faith. In saying “Lord,” we believe that we are servants of God and He is our Lord. This honors Christ.. but it also honors us, who are servants of such a Lord, Who is God.
When we say “Jesus,” which is the human name of God, all the earthly life of Christ, from His birth to Ascension comes to mind.
In saying “Christ,” which means anointed by God, king of heaven and earth, we confess and believe that Christ is our God, Who created everything that is in heaven and will come again to judge the world.