Keep an eye on yourself so that we
do not lose what we have worked for,
but receive the full reward.
2 John. 1:8
Human nature is changeable. Over the course of life, our views, priorities, and preferences change. What we considered important in one period of time ceases to concern us in another. In kindergarten, a child sees a tragedy in a broken toy and selflessly sobs over it as if he has lost the meaning of life. In adolescence, the end of everything seems to be a failed first love and a broken heart. Adults need material proof of well-being, otherwise life is not a success. And at every period of time we drive away thoughts about what is really important. About what awaits each of us — we avoid thoughts about death.
Because the unknown is frightening, and also, we don’t want to think about the finitude of existence. You never know the reasons.
Many people, even believers, are accustomed to thinking of death as the end of everything. But this is not at all true. When we die, we do not disappear; the end comes only for our mortal coil. Soul is immortal! And once again I want to say: there is no death! He gave hope to cleanse his soul and draw closer to the Lord in the Kingdom of Heaven.
The life of a Christian is also full of changes, a believer goes through stages of growing up in Christ. Without avoiding thoughts of death, but constantly remembering the frailty of the bodily shell, a Christian grows courageous and strengthens in his faith.
Participation in church Sacraments and following the commandments is an indispensable condition for a Christian. And also constant mental work. The fight against selfishness, temptations and worldly ambitions strengthens faith and tempers the spirit.
Spiritual maturity is not given from above, but is achieved through painstaking work. But this work is a joy if you feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life. It is he who gives strength for spiritual development, clears the conscience, helps to follow the canons of Christian virtue.
Believers do good deeds not because they are necessary, profitable or useful, but because they cannot do otherwise. Love for one’s neighbor fills the heart and invites us to share it.
A Christian’s investment is not stocks or securities. Believers invest in their souls. And these investments bear fruit not only in eternity, but also during life. It’s difficult to start, and then serving people becomes a need.
St. Theophan the Recluse wrote: “And by works faith becomes perfect: for by works what one believes in is not realized, until then faith is not even faith. It manifests itself only in deeds. And become not only visible, but also strong. Deeds have the opposite effect on faith and strengthen it.”
And what to do if the fire has gone out and the joy has gone? Do not be upset, but seek help from the Lord. It is in moments of suffering, sadness, and powerlessness that a person understands that without the Lord he cannot exist. This hope helps us endure, gather our strength, and grow in Christ. The moment when it seems that there is no way out is the best time to stop relying on yourself and rely on God. Ask Him for strength and wisdom, to entrust yourself to His will.
The Lord works on our soul through circumstances, people and obstacles. Humbles pride, teaches actions.
Pilgrimage to Holy places is another way to strengthen faith. For we honor the Saints according to their works. Their presence in the places where they served and performed their righteous deeds was like a healing balm for a wounded soul. For pilgrims looking for a way to find answers to their questions. For those who have given up, this is an example of service in difficult circumstances. For those undecided, this is an opportunity to learn more about the spread and development of Orthodoxy in our country.
For the Holy Land Charitable Foundation, Christian service is organization of charitable pilgrimage trips. Giving people the opportunity to touch shrines, learn more about the righteous and elders, strengthen their faith or gain it is the main task of the Foundation. The Apostle James wrote: “faith without works is dead.” Let our faith be alive through serving Christ.
Holy Land Charitable Foundation
Investment in the Soul!
