Our Holy Father Cyril, Archbishop of Jerusalem (386)
Great Fast Day 24. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat. According to liturgical prescriptions, the Divine Liturgy is not celebrated today.
Read
Proverbs 12:23-13:10
The final few verses in today’s reading speak to us about wealth. Around us oil prices are falling, the economy is shutting down and many people are worried that they will not have enough to make it through this time of crises. St. Clement of Alexandria reminds us that our wealth is given to us for “the redemption of the soul of a man, that is, if a person is rich, he will obtain salvation by sharing his wealth.” These are important words to remember for we are in a difficult time and feel that we will not have enough. The reality for most people is that they have enough and even more to spare. He continues, “just as the foot is the measure of the sandal, so the physical needs of each person are the measure of what he should possess…” This time of crisis, therefore, should not be a time of hoarding and selfishness, but we should strive to seek the opportunity to ‘obtain salvation by sharing our wealth…’ There are many around us who have big feet and small sandals. The Lord will provide an opportunity to each of us to share with those around us. Let us not miss this opportune time to grow in good deeds in whatever way we can.