A farmer, having just dined, might soon join companions in carefree drinking, spending the evening reveling, or moving from one friend's home to another while treating himself at each stop; ultimately, he only recalls the festival by virtue of his inebriation.
Laborers, craftsmen, and various workers in urban settings—who often earn more than rural laborers—tend to frequent taverns and bars after their holiday meal, seeking relaxation after a week of toil. What sort of repose is this for both body and spirit? A man settles with a drink, perhaps wine or another intoxicating beverage, settling in for hours amidst clouds of tobacco smoke and harmful fumes. In this way, he inhales polluted air that harms his body while engaging in aimless and immoral conversations that corrupt his soul. Is this true rest following labor? Is this revitalization for the work ahead? Is it a genuine way to observe and sanctify the seventh day? (If one desires something more beneficial than mere water or kvass, tea would indeed serve him better, as it does not have the same detrimental effects as stronger drinks).
Urban dwellers and residents of larger cities often spend their Sunday afternoons in leisure pursuits that align with their habits and resources. Some may stroll in public parks, while others attend concerts or magic shows; still, others may frequent theaters or engage in card games. After indulging in such activities, they return home claiming, though perhaps against their true feelings, that they have enjoyed themselves. But what solace has been derived for their souls from such distractions? What does it mean to serve the Lord God on a festal day? O Orthodox Christian! ‘Time,’ as if to say, has “ceased to be other things” (1 Cor. 7:29). Therefore, do not squander the sacred hours in gluttony and intoxication, in frivolities and distractions. Otherwise, you risk straying further from the Christian hope of being granted an everlasting feast in the life to come, that you may experience eternal rest in the world beyond.
THEOSIS