FROM THE PARISH PRIEST
 

How Will We Be Judged? (on Matthew 25:31-46)
by Fr. Romey Rosco

        All too often, we think of our relationship with the Lord in terms of prayer, formal worship, fasting, etc., but not in terms of charity to one another.  But as Orthodox Christians, it is very important for us to show God's mercy in our relationships.  By helping those in need, we are truly experiencing the Faith; its principles are put into action, and God is exalted in His creation.

        Today's gospel reading makes clear what sort of actions we should gladly take as followers of Jesus Christ, and they amount to the following:

        -  giving to the hungry and thirsty;
        -  giving shelter and clothing to the poor and homeless;
        -  caring for the sick and suffering;
        -  not deserting even those who are isolated from society, either due to sins (crimes) committed or by some illness that may set them apart from family and friends.

        The above are all people who suffer, people who, regardless of the reasons, share in the suffering of Christ, the God-Man.

        So, if you're looking to relate to the Lord in your life, look to your fellow man.  How you treat him is just as important as how you treat God.  In Matthew 25:31-46, we have the Lord's Own word on the matter to be read….to be lived.

From The Weekly Bulletin, Vol. XXXII No. 10, 6 March 2005
Sts. Peter & Paul Romanian Orthodox Church, Dearborn Heights MI

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