Sword in the Fire

This morning, the sermon at church was on the story about the healing of the paralytic at the pool of Bethsaida. The sermon was excellent, but led a different direction than I expected. The focus was on the man healed, his response, and whether he deserved the healing. The man never offered thanks to Jesus, never concerned himself with Jesus' identity, and the account finishes with with him apparently accusing Jesus before the religious authorities. How many times is it easy to question the need of those who ask for our charity and assistance? The conclusion is that none of us deserve the gifts of God, it is all mercy. So we should hold no judgment of those we call to help. St. John Chrysostom's 21st homily on 1 Corinthians was quoted for support and it is excellent and convicting. The portions of the sermon that address this issue of giving and judging are found beginning in section 8 and continuing to the end. The full text of St. John's sermon can be found here: http...

Each year during Easter Liturgy, the Orthodox Church replaces the normal sermon with the best sermon ever. There is no reason to trump this masterpiece with a modern creation, and if it's read with enthusiasm it will make you heart pump with joy. This was given by St. John Chrysostom who was born in 347, and later became Patriarch of Constantinople. Chrysostom is not his surname but an honorific title meaning Golden-Mouthed. Even though this sermon is 1700 years old, the truths are so timeless and relevant, it can be transported to any age. Several years ago, a visiting priest read this during our church's Easter service. He was a former Pentecostal pastor, so you can imagine the cadence and fervor coming through each word. By the end of the sermon, you could feel the joy of the Resurrection. Here's the text, read out loud for full effect: If any man be devout and loveth God, Let him enjoy this fair and radiant triumphal feast! If any man be a wise servan...