Spiritual Support
“If we truly care for one another, let us help one another spiritually.… Let us hinder those things that lead our friends away to hell.” (St. John Chrysostom)
“…the Lord entrusts each one of us with responsibility for those who have spiritually faded. A word of comfort, help in trouble, and involvement in the lives of others—all this can become that very “spirit” that will quicken our loved ones and ourselves…It is important to note that when we do outreach to those in distress that we do so wearing the armor of God. Many times, those who have embraced the darkness also suffer and are vulnerable and weakened and subject to spiritual attack. In serving them, we too, are aggravating the adverse powers by ministering to them.” (Hieromonk Irenei Pikovsky, Jackie Morfesis)
“…it is important to learn to notice and appreciate the small manifestations of love, both our own and those of others. In the midst of routine, these small gestures can easily be overlooked, as they may seem insignificant. However, it is precisely these small acts that form the fabric of family life. A cup of tea served without any particular reason, a word of gratitude, or a moment of silence can all serve as reminders of the enduring bond between people. In the spiritual tradition, these acts are referred to as “fruits of the spirit,” encompassing qualities such as patience, humility, and compassion, which manifest themselves not in grand feats or gestures but in everyday actions. When a person learns to see these fruits, they stop viewing their responsibilities as a burden and begin to see them as an opportunity to show love…it is love (particularly the love of the brethren) that is the mark of true spiritual formation.” (Viktor Luzhkov, Father Stephen Freeman)
“When our neighbors, relatives, and loved ones suffer some misfortune, we must do everything in our power to relieve their suffering. For this we can use our material resources, physical strength, and can even comfort and support them with words, showing active participation in their lives….Sometimes all we can do, all we should do, to love and support our family, friends, or anyone in need, is to simply be present, to just offer ourselves - no words, just be there. Practicing the simple ministry of presence seems to be a challenge for many of us who want to fix a situation or share wisdom and experience concerning something similar we went through. But it is often the simplicity of our loving Christ-like presence that brings more comfort and healing than anything else.” (Hieromonk Zosima Melnik, Sacramental Living Ministries)
“ …“let each one examine his own work” and refuse to measure himself by others around him (Galatians 6:4). Each of us is accountable to Christ and to God the Father, as the Holy Spirit reveals the Lord’s will to us. The Church, as our home, school, and hospital, seeks to unite us to one another in Christ. Judging ourselves by others is a sin. Let us leave all final judgment to God and offer mutual support in the struggle set before us by the Lord: “Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect” (Mt 5:48). We each stand before our Master (Rom 14:4). Hence, we are presumptuous if we take on God’s role as judge, either of ourselves or of others.” (Dynamis 10/6/2021)
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