+ Thursday: *Matthew 26:47-58* +
(9th Hour Gospel of Friday Eve of the Holy Pascha)
Reading link: https://bit.ly/3MusaSO
Audio link: https://bit.ly/41cQsop
Contemplation
He did not want us to use the swords in resisting our enemies, but rather to use love and reverence, and thus win over those against us. St. Paul teaches us something similar when saying (2 Cor. 10:5) “Casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.” This is because the war for the sake of the truth is spiritual, and the weapon that makes us saints is mental and full of God’s love.
+ St. Cyril the Great
Personal Question
Jesus led by example to show that as Christians we will be persecuted in this world. Am I steadfast in my faith so that I can face these persecutions with humility like Jesus did?