It is said that the highest state of prayer is reached when the intellect goes beyond the flesh and the world, and while praying is utterly free from matter and form. He who maintains this state has truly attained unceasing prayer. (Maximos the Confessor)

I know a bit of such prayer -or think I do. In such prayer is a glorious state of intimacy.

There are, however, diverse prayers of equal value. Others engage in the unceasing prayer of thanksgiving, and of creativity, and of service.

I honor the monastic impulse. Matter and form can be distracting, even corrupting. We ought not neglect profound purposes and value beyond matter and form.

We might even seek to restore purpose and value to matter and form.

The highest state of prayer is to be wholly engaged in God's purpose, animated by God's intention, and doing God's will.