Our Venerable Mother Parasceva of Ternovo (11th c.); The Holy Martyrs Nazarius, Gervasius, Protasius and Celsus (64-68); Passing into eternal life of Blessed Roman Lysko, Pastor of Youth and Martyr of L’viv
Philippians 2:24-30; Luke 6:46-7:1
Read Philippians 2:24-30
St. Paul reminds the Philippians how they should receive those who struggle for the building up of the Gospel of Christ: “So receive him in the Lord with all joy, and honour such men…” This translates as a reminder that whether it be a bishop, priest, deacon or a layperson who struggles for the building up of the Kingdom remember that they are doing the Lord’s work. We should rejoice not only in the fact that they are cooperating with the Lord, but that the Lord is working in and through them and—God willing—the Kingdom of Christ’s reign is expanding. The effectiveness of their work depends on their willingness to die for the sake of Christ. First to die to their will that Christ’s will may shine through them. Second, if necessary, to even shed their blood for the sake of the Gospel. Any worker in the Lord’s vineyard who is willing to do this difficult work should be respected all the more. For this reason, strive to honour and always pray for them.