Day 19

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35 (From the First Gospel on Holy Thursday Evening)

I have resisted using these reflections to speak about the current pandemic we are experiencing and all that it entails. There is plenty being said all over the news, media outlets, press conferences and social media.

However, today’s reflection really seemed to speak to me about the situation that we find ourselves in: namely, the services of the Church taking place without the faithful. If you follow any social media, I am sure you have heard any number of opinions about the current status of the Church. From “It’s about time” to “How dare they” seems to cover much of what is being said. It can be confusing and even frightening.

Today, Fr. Stavros speaks about love. He talks about how love is the foundation of a virtuous life. He talks about the necessity to love: Why? Because it is the opposite of sin. As he says, the root of all sin is failure to love.

We are in a situation in Lent and the Church right now that is not ideal, far from it. But…we have been given an opportunity to love. While we might not like missing Divine Services, we do so out of love for those around us. Perhaps the words of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew best explain things:

Perhaps some of you have felt that these drastic measures undermine or harm our faith. Therefore, our dear children, we entreat you as your spiritual father to respond faithfully and patiently to all the difficult but necessary measures proposed by our health authorities and nations. Everything is being done for our protection, for our common good, in order to contain the spread of this virus. Our liberation from this distress depends entirely on our own cooperation. However, that which is at stake is not our faith – it is the faithful.  It is not Christ – it is our Christians. It is not the divine-man – but human beings. Our faith is firmly established in the roots of our culture. Our faith is a living faith, and there is no exceptional circumstance that can limit or suppress it. What must be limited and suppressed in these extraordinary circumstances are gatherings and large congregations of people. Let us remain in our homes. Let us be careful and protect those around us. And there, from our homes, strengthened by the power of our spiritual unity, let each and every one of us pray for all humankind.

So as we work or way through these difficult times, let us show love for our fellow church members, our friends and families and all of mankind by doing what is necessary and what is asked. Let us love all those around us, friend and stranger, by being careful.

Take advantage of the technological opportunities to keep in touch. Watch the services; join the online chats and classes. But most of all, as the Patriarch says, from our homes, let us pray.

This is the mark of true love.

In Christ

Fr. David