Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
In Romans 13:11-14 and 14:1-4, the Apostle Paul calls for a spritual revival, telling us that "our salvation is now nearer than when we first believed." These Words tell us that the existence of life in Christ is one of constant Watchfulness, Penance and Change. He commands us to 'eliminate the products of darkness and wear the armor of light.' This is not merely a poetic expression but a Call To Action.
Orthodox Christians are called to choose a different way of living in this tempting world while wearing Christ and engaging in righteous behavior. When we put on Christ, we follow His example in everything we do: in our thinking, speaking, and doing.We are invited to allow the Holy Spirit to live within us so that we can keep away from selfishness and become more holy.
Apostle Paul also tells us not to judge othersbut to take in the weak in faith. How frequently do we pass judgement on others and use our own benchmarks to measure them? The Apostle tells us that every servant will be accountable to their own master, and God is the ultimate judge. Through our actions, we construct, support and love one another.
May God bless you all as we continue our journey through this holy season. I ask for your prayers as well, that God may grant me the strength and wisdom to serve His Church faithfully.
During this time of year, when preparing for Great Lent, let us check ourselves. Do we show Christ's light in our daily lives, or do we stick with darkness? Do we have a greater appetite for kindess and less appetite for judging others? Our goal iss to advance our spiritual life and increase our love for God and our love for our fellow Christians and all human beings.
May the Lord grant us the wisdom to listen to these words and strengthen us to put them into practice. May the Lord gift us the Grace to walk always in His light.
Wishing you all a blessed Great Lent, I remain yours in Christ's love.
In Christ's Love,
Bishop Athenagoras of Nazianzos
Archiepiscopal Vicar
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