THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
As we conclude the Holy Quadrity and have navigated through the period of fasting, we find ourselves, by God's grace, at the threshold of a new beginning. However, we must not succumb to complacency; rather, we should redouble our diligence and watchfulness. Just as mariners, after traversing vast and perilous waters, meticulously prepare to dock their ships, ensuring all sails are unfurled and cargo secured to avoid any calamities that could threaten their labor's fruit, so too should we be attentive at the culmination of our spiritual journey. Likewise, those who race strive to quicken their pace as they near the finish line, eager to attain a coveted prize. Wrestlers, after enduring many contests, exert themselves further for the ultimate battle that leads to the victorious crown.
Read more (438 words)
In this same spirit, as we reach the pinnacle of this blessed Holy Week, let us amplify our efforts in fasting, intensify our prayers, engage in heartfelt confessions, and perform acts of kindness, practicing humility, gentleness, and all virtues. Through these righteous deeds, may we arrive at the glorious day of our Lord's resurrection, experiencing the fullness of His grace.
This week is deemed ‘Great’ not due to its duration or number of days, but because of the immeasurable blessings bestowed upon us during this time. It marks the end of long-standing warfare, the defeat of death, the nullification of oaths, the dismantling of the devil's power, the restoration of peace between God and humanity, the opening of heaven to all, the unification of the divided, and the breaking down of barriers. This reconciliation of heavenly and earthly realms exemplifies why we honor this week as significant.
Consequently, many people engage more fervently in fasting, sacred vigils, and nightly prayers, as well as increase their charitable giving, demonstrating their honor for this sacred time. If the Lord has granted us such abundant blessings, should we not also exhibit our respect and reverence toward it in every way possible? Kings, too, express their veneration for these holy days through actions; they decree cessation of civil activities, close courts, and halt disputes, fostering an atmosphere of silence and peace for spiritual endeavors. They further extend mercy by releasing prisoners, echoing the liberation Christ offers us from the bondage of sin, thereby encouraging us to emulate His compassion as much as we are able.
Let us each in our own ways manifest the esteem we hold for these days, which have become conduits of divine blessings. Therefore, now more than ever, let us approach this gathering with pure hearts, setting aside worldly distractions. Upon entering the church, may we leave behind our earthly concerns, striving to return home graced with the rewards of our efforts. We continue our tradition of sharing nourishment and will delve into the reading from the blessed Moses, elucidating its significance as aligned with divine teachings.
In recounting the account of Noah, we move to the genealogy of Shem, noting, "There were children also to Shem, the father of all the sons of Eber, the elder brother of Japheth" (Gen. 10:21). Following this, it recounts, "two sons were born to Eber; the name of the one was Phalek, because in his days the earth was divided." Observe that the very name of this descendant foreshadows the impending miracle, ensuring that when you witness the fulfillment, you will find assurance knowing it was foretold through the son’s name.