For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 God did not want us to live in this state of permanent separation. His intent was not for us to have life just mark a […]
Elder Iosif Vatopaidinos ‘The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth’ (Jn. 1, 14). ‘In bringing many sons and daughters to glory, it was fitting that God, […]
According to Orthodox Christian belief, the purpose of life is to glorify God and to become more like Him. This message is based on the teachings of Jesus Christ, who said, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your […]
Behold, we call those happy who are steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. James 5:11 A marathon is a 26.2 mile race. It takes even the most elite runners two hours to […]
After this, Jesus went down to Capernaum, with His mother and His brothers and disciples; and there they stayed for a few days. The Passover of the Jews was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple, He found those who were selling oxen and sheep and […]
We know that in everything God works for good with those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 Have you ever […]
Listening for guidance from the Lord is a profound spiritual practice. It requires a mindful openness to God’s voice and an earnest willingness to discern His will in our lives. This journey can be explored through Scriptures, teachings of the Church Fathers, and the lives of the Saints. Just how […]
After this, Jesus went down to Capernaum, with His mother and His brothers and disciples; and there they stayed for a few days. The Passover of the Jews was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple, He found those who were selling oxen and sheep and pigeons, and […]
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:6 He is Risen. He is not here. Mark 16:6 I am writing this reflection on my 52nd birthday. Fifty-three years ago, on March 14, 1971, […]
By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. John 13:35 No one exists in isolation. Everyone has some relationship with someone. In this case, relationship doesn’t necessarily mean friendship. A “relationship” might last only a few seconds, such as with the cashier […]
I do not nullify the grace of God; for if justification were through the law, then Christ died with no purpose. Galatians 2:21 Lots of people struggle with the question of “what is my purpose?” College students try to figure out what they want to study. Middle-aged people wonder if they […]
For I think that God has exhibited us apostles as last of all, like men sentenced to death; because we have become a spectacle to the world, to angels and to men. We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are […]