Continued 👇🏾
The Veneration of the Holy Icons
Martha, filled with joy, received the image as Queen Helena once received the Holy Cross. With reverence she built a splendid sanctuary, like Solomon for the Ark of Zion. She placed the holy icon in honor, set lamps burning day and night, and she was worshipped with tears and uplifted hands.
Soon, miracles abounded. The wise and faithful who came saw the image as if it had taken on flesh. Tears flowed from her image, and those who were anointed with it were healed of their afflicting diseases. News had spread across the world:
The image of the Mother of God, look like strong in flesh and soul, had come from Jerusalem to Tsedeniya on the tenth of Meskerem.
The bishops, beholding these wonders, established the commemoration of this holy day so that generations might never forget.
The Meaning for Us
Beloved, this feast teaches us:
That true wealth is not in gold or silver, but in charity and devotion.
That the Mother of God hears the cries of her children and comes swiftly to their aid.
That her presence sanctifies homes, heals the sick, and drives away the adversary.
That God Himself directs the steps of those who honor His Mother, making their houses temples of grace.
Conclusion
Therefore, on this holy day, let us cry out with faith:
O Lady Mary, Queen of Heaven and Tsedeniya, Ark of Salvation and Mother of our Lord, intercede for us! As you chose to dwell in the house of Martha, so dwell also in our hearts. Drive far from us the lion of the enemy, scatter the robbers of our souls, and lead us into the eternal kingdom of your Son, Jesus Christ.
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 God's mother, the virgin, and the cross be upon us.
Amen.
© John's Repentance
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