THEOSISElias (Meniates)
In the time of St. Elijah, the mindset of the Christians seemed to focus on almost everything except delving into the essentials of their faith. Among all the kings of Israel, Josiah stood out as the most devout and respectful. Motivated by a fervent dedication to God, he sought to restore the temple. Accordingly, he instructed Helkiah the high priest to open the treasury for necessary expenditures. Upon opening it, Helkiah discovered the book of the Law written by Moses hidden beneath all the silver. When the king was informed, instead of expressing joy and giving glory to God, he arose from his throne in sorrow and dread, tearing his garments. “Alas for us,” he lamented, “we are lost; great is the wrath of the Lord against us.” But why such grief?
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What ominous understanding accompanies the finding of the book of the Law? It is indeed a troubling sign, my friends. Can you not perceive it? The silver was located at the top, while the book of the Law was buried below; this reflects a disconcerting reality. It indicates that the people of that time prioritized wealth over the divine commandments. Good King Josiah had every reason to mourn, to fear, and to tremble before the fierce anger of God. “Great is the wrath of the Lord kindled against us.” A similar troubling trend can be observed in communities that pride themselves on their Orthodoxy: placing monetary matters above everything else, relegating the law to a lower priority, with worldly affairs taking precedence over spiritual ones. Utility and profit dominate their concerns. And what about the soul? What of God? They are positioned at the bottom, overlooked by all. The primary pursuit becomes the exploration of trades and methods to amass wealth. Meanwhile, the study of one’s faith is postponed or deemed unnecessary. Thus, wealth occupies the foremost position, while the Gospel remains beneath it. With greed reigning at the top and faith buried below, woe to us—we are lost! “Great is the wrath of the Lord against us.” Perhaps some who listen believe my assertions to be misguided. They may think it untrue that the faith among Christians lacks depth both in contemplation and in actions of belief, that their minds and hearts stray far from true faith. If anyone holds this view, let them step forward, and I will reply, “Show me your faith by your works” (James 2:18). A reflection during the first week of Lent. On faith.