The legend of Brother Lawrence of the Resurrection casts a far greater shadow than his written output. Most Christians have encountered the main idea of Lawrence’s life. I’ll provide a summary of it from chapter two of his Spiritual Maxims:

The holiest, most ordinary, and most necessary practice of the spiritual life is that of the presence of God. It is to take delight in and become accustomed to his divine company, speaking humbly and conversing lovingly with him all the time, at every moment, without rule or measure, especially in times of temptation, suffering, aridity, weariness, even infidelity and sin. (38)

That was his big idea, deceptive in simplicity. As a kitchen worker and then sandal repairer, Lawrence spent his life developing a minute-by-minute awareness of the presence of God.

This edition of Practice of the Presence contains an excellent introduction and biographical sketch, along with eulogies, letters, and other supplementary material. This is essential reading for anyone exploring the Christian spiritual formation tradition along with people seeking to be inspired and deepen their own faith.

Lawrence of the Resurrection. The Practice of the Presence of God. Critical ed. Translated by Salvatore Sciubra. ICS Publications, 1994.