Father Evagoras talks about the commonalities between Jairus the Rules, and the woman with the flow of blood for 12 years; their FAITH!
In the Gospel today, Christ shows his love for the woman of Nain by raising her son from the dead. He does this because he sees and understands her pain and sadness, without even a word. In the same way, Christ's compassion for us is manifest every day.
In today's contemplation, we delve into the timeless words of Luke 6:31-36, where Jesus instructs us: "Do to others as you would have them do to you." This profound teaching embodies the very essence of love and compassion. Christ beckons us to extend our kindness not solely to those who treat us well but to all, including those who may not reciprocate.
Father Evagoras talks about the Gospel reading on the Sunday following the Holy Cross, where we as believers are called to "deny themselves, pick up their Cross and follow" Christ, and what that really means for us as Orthodox Christians in 2023.
I remember watching football games with my dad and seeing a guy hold up a sign saying "For God so Loved the World that he Gave His Only Begotten Son" and always wondering what that meant...
As we step into this new school year, let's dedicate ourselves to being the best students and friends we can be. Let's remember that Jesus is always with us, guiding us like a true friend. Let's also remember that God's love surrounds us, and we can share that love with everyone we meet.
In this parable, Jesus paints a vivid picture of a landowner who plants a vineyard, carefully securing it with a hedge, digging a winepress, and building a tower for watchmen. This metaphor speaks of God's meticulous preparation in establishing His Kingdom on Earth. The vineyard symbolizes the world and its inhabitants, reflecting God's creation in its entirety. The hedge signifies God's protection, the winepress His expectation of spiritual fruit, and the tower His vigilance and guidance.
In this new ecclesiastical year, let us recommit ourselves to Jesus Christ and to our community. Let us offer our talents, our time, and our prayers, knowing that each contribution, no matter how small, is significant in God's eyes. As we embark on this fresh chapter, let us be inspired to grow spiritually, to learn more about our faith, and to deepen our connection with the One who has called us His own.