God is revealed through His #saints
Beloved and respected, all our members who follow the orthodox education that we convey on John Repentance page; We have sent you the following important lesson about the unity between Christ and the Church so we entrust you all to read and learn from it.
To speak of saints is to speak of God. Fire manifests itself in wood. The life of the saints is also a manifestation of God. Saint Paul said: "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me. He explained to us that it is Christ who dwells in the saints. Galatians 2:20. In his message, Saint John said, "Hereby we know that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit." : 1st John 4:13. What Christ revealed in the Holy Word, "At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you..." (John 14:20). This is why the apostles and the holy fathers who succeeded them said, "I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." Matthew 28:20. This is when he told them that he will always be with them forever. It is when St. Paul asserts this that he says, "Christ lives in me." The righteousness of the saints not only for their souls, but also for their bodies, and for their clothes, because the clothes of St. Paul used to heal the sick. Acts 9:11 When he lived on earth for three years and six months, for Christ We are not told that the shadow of his garment healed the sick, but it was said about St. Paul. Because it was Christ himself who stayed with Paul, the sick were healed by Christ. Paul, whom Christ honored and chose, caused the sick to be healed.
Our Lord, `Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do'' (John 14:12), the promise he made to the saints is bound to be fulfilled. It is not said that the creature is greater than the creator and performs more miracles. Instead, when Christ Jesus was revealed in the flesh, he indicated that he would perform the miracle that he had not performed in three years and six months, on the saints until the end of time. When our Lord said, "He who believes in me", he means he who believes that he is a divine being who has become a human being. This means that he who believes that He is one with his Father's nature- the Father and his life with the Holy Spirit , in character, existence, power, will, and divinity. But not the one who just calls his holy name in vain. But the one who truly believes like this said, "He will do the works that I do (the miracles that I have done"). the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whosoever eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him." (John 6:53-56) It means that as fire melts iron, so I will live by grace.
Saint Paul, the light of the world, said, "Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ." 1st Cor 11:1 Why don't we say Christ directly? Is it difficult for him to say 'be like Christ?' it's not! Everything that Paul did was done by Christ, because Christ himself is in Paul. If it is said that the holy believers stood on one foot and prayed for seven years, it was Christ who did it through them, but a creature cannot do that by itself. But the Lord who dwells in the saints is omnipotent, so he also made them omnipotent. We also say with understanding, "O God of Abune Takle Haimat, glory and praise be to you," ; but we cannot say "Why did you do this on him?" .
About the story of the #covenant of Mercy
(Virgin #Mary)
The concept of a "Covenant of Mercy," deeply rooted in Orthodox theology, reflects the profound interplay between divine justice and mercy. This story, particularly centered around the Blessed Virgin Mary, is a vivid tapestry of faith, intercession, and divine promise, painting a picture of God's unending compassion towards humanity.
The Covenant with the Blessed Virgin Mary
The narrative of the Blessed Virgin Mary's covenant with Christ is a cornerstone of this theological understanding. In her plea at the tomb of Christ, Mary exemplifies the role of intercessor, a bridge between the divine and the human. Her plea, "My child, my friend... I am begging you to come and listen to my pleas," is not just a mother's cry but a symbolic representation of humanity's yearning for divine intervention and mercy.
The Essence of the Covenant
At its core, the Covenant of Mercy is an oath, a divine promise of salvation and forgiveness. It transcends the boundaries of time and space, linking the faithful across generations. This covenant is not merely an agreement but an embodiment of God's unwavering commitment to His creation.
Biblical Foundations
The Intercessory Role of Saints
In Orthodox theology, saints hold a special place as intercessors and exemplars of divine grace. Their lives, a testament to faith and devotion, become channels through which God's mercy flows. The story of the covenant reminds us that the saints, in their earthly life and heavenly abode, continue to intercede for us, presenting our pleas before the throne of God.
### The Necessity of the Covenant
Why is such a covenant necessary? It stems from the inherent human condition marked by sin and frailty, as first seen in Adam. The covenant is God's response to this condition, offering a path to redemption and salvation. It is a beacon of hope, guiding the faithful towards a life of virtue and piety.
The Role of Good Deeds
This covenant, however, is not a passive assurance. It calls for active participation in the form of good deeds. It is not an excuse for moral laxity but an encouragement to strive for righteousness, knowing that divine mercy is ever-present.
The Universality of God's Mercy
The mercy of God, as revealed in these narratives, is not limited to a select few but is a universal promise. It extends beyond the saints to every repentant sinner, offering forgiveness and a chance for renewal.
The Blessed Virgin Mary's Unique Role
In this celestial drama, the Blessed Virgin Mary holds a unique position. She is not only a recipient of this covenant but also an active participant in its dispensation. Her intercessory role is magnified in this covenant, making her a focal point of hope and salvation for all who seek her son, Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
In contemplating the "Story of the Covenant of Mercy," we are invited to reflect on the depth of God's love and the profound role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the economy of salvation. This narrative is not just a historical account but a living reality that invites us to partake in the divine mercy, encouraging us to live lives worthy of this high calling.
In the spirit of John Chrysostom, let us ponder these truths, allowing them to transform our understanding and approach to our faith, leading us closer to the heart of God's unending mercy.
May the name of the Holy God be praised forever and ever in every tongue that He has created, today and always.
May the blessings of The Virgin, and the cross be upon us. Amen.
© John's Repentance
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