To draw near to God, aligned with the Creator's benevolent purpose and reflecting the need of humanity fashioned in God’s image, is indeed the rightful and legitimate aim of our endeavors throughout life. Since humans, made in the likeness of the Infinite, find no satisfaction in the finite, chasing after the fleeting pleasures of this world only leads to disappointment. Even after obtaining what may appear desirable, they quickly realize its limitations. The intellect, reflecting the image of the Eternal, can only truly satisfy its thirst for knowledge with eternal truth. The heart, which resembles the Infinite, can only be fulfilled by the boundless good that brings joy and happiness. This sentiment resonates with the King-Prophet, who called out to God, "I shall be filled when Thy glory is revealed" (Ps. 16:15). Hence, another prophet urges, "draw near to your God at all times" (Hos. 12:6). The Apostle further encourages this pursuit by assuring us of a mutual closeness: "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you" (James 4:8).
But how can one approach God, the unseen and transcendent? Clearly, it is impossible for someone to instantly ascend from earth to heaven, from the visible to the invisible. However, we can and should direct our faculties towards God. This includes focusing our thoughts and aspirations, and moving toward Him through contemplation, prayer, faith, and love. This path is fraught with challenges, rooted both in the inherent flaws of our nature, which encumbers our will, and in external influences that lead us away from the Creator's goodness. Although we possess the capability to concentrate our thoughts, it often happens that when we attempt to lift our minds toward God, they falter and descend, sometimes against our best efforts, toward trivial matters. We may recognize that it is not merely outside forces guiding our desires; we often find ourselves willingly drawn to various interests. Yet, when we attempt to focus our yearnings on spiritual and eternal gifts, conflicts arise from worldly desires that attract us to fleeting happiness and diminish our longing for God.
This parable is designed to assist us in overcoming such difficulties, as it counsels us to align our actions with God, thus reinforcing our thoughts. "Draw thy works near unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established." How can we hesitate to approach God with our thoughts, desires, and spirits if we neglect to align our actions accordingly? Though the spirit, by its nature, is stronger than the flesh—"the spirit ... is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Mk. 14:38)—can a spiritual thought possess its full strength when it is undermined by actions contrary to its spiritual objective? Such dissonance can amplify the influence of earthly habits and addictions.
Therefore, if you wish to come close to God with unwavering conviction and stand steadfast in theological reflections, in prayer, in faith, and in love, strive to imbue all your actions with a spiritual purpose, fueled by aspirations that seek God. "Draw your works near to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established." You may wonder, how can I bring my actions close to God? Once again, I emphasize that this is achieved by infusing them with God-directed thoughts.
I do not refer to immoral or sinful acts; such deeds cannot be brought before God and must be rejected with all willpower as they stand in opposition to Him. Rather, I speak of good deeds or at least neutral ones, common in daily life yet not overtly directed toward God. Ensure that your actions do not occur without mindfulness of God, motivated by mere whim or passion. Such an approach distances them from God, consequently leading you away from Him as well. For instance, if you wish to help your neighbor, let your intentions not stem from the desire for recognition or praise; otherwise, you will be drawing your actions closer to human approval than to divine fellowship. Avoid performing actions without conscious thought, as these will lack life and thus move away from God. Instead, offer your kindness to the needy with heartfelt recognition of your heavenly Father: "Be ... merciful, as your Father is also merciful" (Lk. 6:36), and your generosity will transcend the recipient, reaching God.
If called to positions of public service, do not seek personal glory or advancement above others. Rather, let your actions be driven by the understanding that those in authority are "God’s ... servants for your good” (Rom. 13:4). Serve faithfully, remembering that your earthly duties also draw you nearer to your heavenly homeland. In your labor for the wellbeing of this world, beware of adopting the motto of the rich man in the parable: "O soul, you have much good, ... eat, drink, be merry" (Luke 12:19). This way leads to folly and sudden destruction. Instead, abide by the Apostle’s guidance: "there is ... great gain in godliness with contentment" (1 Tim. 6:6). Learn to "become rich in God" (Luke 12:21) through righteous acquisition, moderation in your use of goods, and by serving those in need, even from your own scarcity.
"If you ... eat," the Apostle instructs, "if you drink, or if you do anything, ... do it all for the glory of God" (1 Cor. 10:31). Observe how even the act of eating, which can lead one to excess, may be elevated through a virtuous intention and, as Solomon suggests, "brought near to the Lord." If you contemplate a new endeavor, remember to bring it close to God through prayer for His blessing before embarking on it. Should you reflect on deeds already accomplished, marked by dignity and blessings for yourself and others—do not let them feed your pride; instead, elevate them to God, acknowledging His providence, and offer the fragrance of gratitude from your heart.
This interpretation of Solomon's parable takes on profound significance as we witness its application within the esteemed recent history of our revered Sovereign. As we transition from the summer of the past to the new season of his continued reign, we recall a day that evoked anticipation among the preceding days and now commands reverence both from the present and future. It is the day of the completion of His twenty-fifth year as an ordained and anointed King. This day evokes memories of the many noble acts He carried out for the Church and the Kingdom amid both warfare and peace—through legislation, administration, and the elevation of ranks, in bestowing favors and blessings, aiding the suffering and vulnerable, and alleviating calamities beyond human remedy—all accomplished through His steadfast spirit and resolute strength.
How did He commemorate this momentous occasion? With His spirit elevated beyond earthly festivities, He "brought His works near to the Lord." Accompanied by His consubstantial Spouse and the assembly of His family's successive generations, He journeyed from His new capital to the ancient one in a moving spiritual pilgrimage, solely to offer God the incense of reverent gratitude in the temple where He had received His sacred wedding and anointing. This solemnity stands as the highest honor, as it directs itself straight to God—a supreme triumph of joy that is distinctly heavenly.
Righteously, O Russia, you herald your King as the most pious. Rejoice in this distinction, and strive continually to embody the essence of that title you bestow upon Him. Pursue active piety, "bringing your works near to the Lord," through living faith and a loyal adherence to His commandments, so that you might confidently proclaim with prophetic assurance: "then I will not be ashamed, I will not be shaken, I will be established in strength and glory, when I observe all Thy commandments" (Psalm 118:6). Amen.
THEOSIS