THEOSISPhilaret of Moscow (Drosdow)
What a remarkable institution it is, embodying the trust bestowed by the Highest Authority on the citizens, granting them the privilege, as noted in the Hebrew Scriptures, to choose for themselves direct guardians of order and justice within their midst! This freedom allows them to select representatives who will uphold these virtues. It is essential to fortify this commendable institution through diligent practice; thereby validating the trust placed in them and exercising the liberty afforded to them, as stated in Hebrews, to ensure that the Highest Authority has no reason to regret this gift.
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“Consider for yourselves,” I echo the words of an ancient advisor, “men of strength, men who fear God, men of integrity, men who despise corruption” (Exodus 18:21). With the goal of such an election in mind, make your solemn vow now before the Lord, the God who knows your hearts. He, who is flawless in His choices both in this life and the next, may bless and realize your righteous selection for the benefit of all. Amen.
Who was Moses? He was a prophet, a giver of the law, a messenger from God. And who was Jethro? A priest of uncertain worship, belonging to no specific group of God's chosen ones, only recently introduced to the true knowledge of God through Moses. “Now,” he declares, “I have seen that the Lord is greater than all gods” (Ex. 18:11). Can you believe that this Jethro is capable of aiding Moses? Yet, Jethro observed Moses weighed down by the struggles of the people, was moved by compassion for him, and willingly offered his assistance, indeed helping him by advising him to create a system for distributing judgments and responsibilities.
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This illustration, I believe, is presented in the Scriptures so that those who consider themselves wise and spiritually mature do not belittle those who are simple and imperfect in their eyes, while also ensuring that those who perceive themselves as distant from spiritual perfection do not allow feelings of inadequacy to stifle their eagerness to provide spiritual guidance to others within their capacity and understanding.