August 2011 – Page 2 – Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church

The feeding of the five thousand. Simple truth and layers of truth: Compassion, Trust, Giving thanks and the Apostolic Church.

The Feeding of the Five Thousand has many truths that we must learn. Some are apparently obvious, but still we should take note of them, since we do not do them enough: We must cultivate compassion for everyone, give thanks for all things, and trust our Lord Jesus Christ in all things and in all circumstances. The powerful truths of this miracle can be thought of as deeper layers. They are not immediately apparent from a surface interpretation of the text. Let us look especially at these truths as the Lord teaches us about true compassion, and trust in all circumstances. Another layer of truth in this event regarding the ministry of the twelve apostles, and the government of the apostolic church.

St. Maximus on Prayer and Free Will

In the introduction to his explanation of the prayer, "Our Father," St. Maximus the Confessor explains the meaning of prayer in connection with his very profound understanding of the nature of free will and its role in salvation. Prayer, according to St. Maximus, consists ideally in petition for that which God desires to give us… Continue reading St. Maximus on Prayer and Free Will

Transfiguration of our Lord Jesus Christ (and of us). Aug 6/19. Homilies, exegesis, questions and answers

Homilies, explanation of scripture, and many questions and answers about the Transfiguration of our Savior.