The Holy Venerable-Martyr Nikon and His Disciples, Martyred with Him (270-75)
Isaiah 26:21-27:9: Genesis 9:18-10:1; Proverbs 12:23-13:10
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
Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory forever!
We all want to succeed in our endeavours. Some say that the real difference between success and failure is simply one’s intention and one’s level of fervour set on that intention. However, desire alone is not enough. Today’s selection informs us that one’s diligence along with intention will make the difference. Diligence is understood as careful or persistent work. This, according to one Coptic commentator, does not mean that one must just work harder towards a goal; one must work smarter.
We desire salvation. We can never save ourselves. It is the Lord who saves. The number of prayers we complete or the amount of time we spend in prayer will never save us. That is just working harder. With working harder, we can work smarter. Working smarter is very much like the Holy Theotokos giving way to the will of the Lord. Her fiat was the gateway to the Lord acting through her. Giving way to the Lord in all things. Giving Him permission to act in our lives even before we understand what it is He wants to accomplish. That is working smarter.
Lord, grant us your holy wisdom that we may always, at all times, and in all places, give way to You that Your mighty, marvellous, and magnificent works may be accomplished through us.