THEOSISPhilaret of Moscow (Drosdow)
Samuel found salvation within the Lord’s church, where God’s dwelling place resides. The Lord called upon him, saying, “Samuel, Samuel,” to which he responded, “Behold, I am.” Through the benevolence and fatherly care of the most devout Autocrat, we are in the process of revitalizing the educational and residential spaces designated for the Church's children, who are being prepared for ministry. This renewal encompasses not only the house itself but also the house of God, located close at hand, unified under one roof.
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Blessed be God, who provides “what you will and what you will do for good pleasure,” as He grants to the sovereign authority a devoted concern for the needs of sacred service, along with loving support for the ministers of the altar as they nurture the youth. This allows them to “watch with joy for the souls” of their spiritual charges, encouraging them to “pray for the King.”
Children, ask your parents or elders: did they receive the same multifaceted care that you enjoy today when they walked the path you currently tread, decades ago? We often had to navigate the barren route to the place of learning from our modest homes, and it was not unusual for “a fire to be kindled in our teaching” when the house of wisdom required warmth or light. I recall this not to cast blame on the past, which holds its own commendable memories, but to honor the present.
You now occupy a residence that is tranquil, splendid, and grand; yet it is important to remind you that you should think of yourselves as honored but humble guests, avoiding the temptation to grow complacent in your comfort. Remember to nurture a loving mindset, for many of you may one day return to simpler dwellings or visit humble habitats. Approach this task not as a burdensome obligation, but as a sacred and noble duty.
We are currently in the temple, and it is fitting to focus on the significance of the temple at this moment. When I reflect on the children housed here, who will one day, having matured beyond childhood and been educated in knowledge, manners, and life, enter the temple service with reverent trepidation, I am struck by the grace of their proximity to the sanctuary. This brings both comfort and concern. How shall we respond to this divine grace and the closeness of the sanctuary? Is its nearness more intimidating than it is reassuring?
David, a man after God’s own heart, once sought to bring the holy Ark of the Covenant closer to him—not to his own home, but merely to his town. When the churchman Uzzah, with good intentions, dared to touch the sacred object, he instead met death instead of blessing. “David feared the Lord on that day, saying, ‘How shall the Ark of the Lord come in to me?’” In time, after witnessing further signs of divine favor, he resumed his pious mission.
The temple of truth and the mysteries of Christianity possesses a sacredness that could be considered equal to or even greater than that of the Old Covenant’s Ark. Thus, it is reasonable for the occupants of this house to approach the Lord with reverence today, asking, “How shall the temple of the Lord come in to us? How shall we dwell in proximity to the sanctuary of God, who is most ‘sanctified’ among those who draw near to Him, illuminating the worthy while serving as a purifying fire to the unworthy?”
Children, do not allow yourselves to forget the presence of God’s temple nearby. Hold it in awe, ensuring this reverence draws you closer rather than pushing you away from the house of God. Keep in mind that the angel of the temple watches over you and hears your every word, and be mindful of actions that would elicit his disapproval.
A heart devoted to God, a will inclined toward His commandments, a mind full of truth, a peaceful life, a gentle spirit, discerning speech, perfect obedience to authority, a love for your assigned duties, tireless effort, moderate rest, and innocent joy—these virtues can coexist with the dignity of God’s house. Under its shadow and light, youth can flourish spiritually and bear fruit for salvation.
As daunting as the closeness to God's temple may be due to His inviolable holiness, it is also to be cherished for the abundant grace bestowed by His presence. To alleviate the fear of holiness and instill hope in grace, I present to you the example of a young man who not only lived near the temple but within it—who even slept there—yet faced no condemnation for his boldness, but rather found favor with God.
“Samuel slept in the church of the Lord, where the tabernacle of God is. And the Lord called out, ‘Samuel, Samuel.’ And he said, ‘Behold, I am.’” To understand this correctly, consider the extreme negligence that might be assumed, permitting Samuel to sleep in the church of the Lord, which is the dwelling of God. The Law prescribed that only the High Priest and Priests were to enter for ministry, and Samuel was not among the lower ranks of Levites who commenced service in their youth.
If this is thought to be a lapse due to the failings of the weak High Priest Eli, which brought disaster upon him and his household, how could Samuel escape condemnation and instead enjoy special favor from God? The answer to this perplexity lies in these words from Deuteronomy: “Before the lamp of God was extinguished, Samuel was saved in the church of the Lord.” What does the burning lamp signify? It seems to indicate the special affection Samuel held for the holy place.
His early love prompted him to guard the lamp of God, which burned throughout the night in the temple—a task that could require the attention of one person for the entire night, let alone that of an adolescent. Samuel’s devotion to the temple and prayer outweighed any desire for sleep, as he remained awake, serving, reverencing, praying, sustained only by brief periods of slumber and the unceasing light of the lamp.
Thus, it is clear that Samuel’s slumber in the temple was not only harmless but served as a means for divine revelation. His diligence sprang from a love for the sacred sanctuary, not carelessness. It is also noteworthy that Samuel, who later became a prophet, established a spiritual school for the “sons of the prophets,” leading to the rise of many prophets in subsequent times. The foundation of this school was none other than the temple of God.
From infancy, he dwelled in the temple, not receiving instruction from external sources, but nourished through reverence and faith by the Spirit of the One who resides there—so much so that he became a temple of “the Holy Spirit, the Lord who spoke to the prophets.” Children of the temple, children of learning! Learn from the example of the Prophet Samuel. You are situated here, partly to learn and partly to dwell, almost at the threshold of the temple. Love the temple and its service, and let the Spirit thrive within you through your reverence and faith.
Should you find the opportunity to serve the temple, whether by reading, singing, raising the candlestick, or preparing the incense, do so with reverence, diligence, and joy. Remember that these simple acts once served as the lampstand of the Church, illuminating the prophetic light through Samuel. You have instructors, teaching, and books—these are treasures for youth. However, earthly instruction requires help from a heavenly Teacher, just as seeds require sunlight for growth and fruitfulness.
“The Lord giveth wisdom, and from His face knowledge and understanding.” Direct your thoughts and intimate longings to Him during study or when faced with challenges. Give Him thanks when understanding dawns and you succeed. Most importantly, keep your heart pure and blameless, so that the light of God does not become dimmed within your soul. “For wisdom does not enter into the evil soul, but dwells in a body guilty of sin.” “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall not only see the wisdom of God, but also ‘God Himself.’” Amen.