Saturday, May 23

DYNAMIS, Upside Down World, May 25, 2009, Monday of the 6th Week of Pascha



__________________________________________________________
Acts 17:1-15 (5/25)
Apostle for Monday of the Sixth Week of Pascha

The Upside Down World: Acts 17:1-15, (include 16: 35-40), especially vs.
6: "...These who have turned the world upside down have come here too."

Contrary to the assertion that they had "...turned the world upside
down...," the Apostles had, in fact, merely identified that the world
is already 'turned upside down.' By proclaiming that "...Jesus...is
the Christ" (vs. 3) in Whom God will restore all things (see Acts 3:21),
Paul and Silas were sharing stunning news - the One Who will turn the
world 'right side up' has come and is putting all things right.

The Gospel declares that the Lord Jesus Christ, our Savior, lived in the
flesh in the present, upside-down world as you and I do, being born from
the womb of the Virgin. While in this twisted existence, He walked
'uprightly' and exposed the inverted state of the world, shattering
every delusion that this life into which we are born is 'normal' and 'good.'
Our Lord Jesus promised that a right-side-up world is coming, which He
called "the Kingdom of God." Furthermore, He undertook an essential
corrective action to straighten out the present disorder. Rejoice in
the restorative power of your Lord that is available today!

Why, then, did the Jews take such offense at the Apostles' message?
They knew that God had made His creature, man, in His own image (Gen.
1:27). From Moses they knew that "...The Lord God [is] pitiful and
merciful, longsuffering and very compassionate, and true, and keeping
justice and mercy for thousands, taking away iniquity, and
unrighteousness, and sins; [Who] will not clear the guilty; bringing the
iniquity of the fathers upon the children...." (Ex. 34:6,7). They
understood that God alone is Lord "...Most High over all the earth" (Ps.
82:17), the King "...sitting on a high and exalted throne..." (Is. 6:1).

Still, the apostolic message affronted the Jews' experience of God,
overturning that which they had come to accept for generations: while it
might be acceptable to declare that God anointed "...Jesus of Nazareth
with the Holy Spirit and with power..." to go about doing good (Acts
10:38), it was highly offensive to assert that the Messiah was
crucified and "...killed by hanging on a tree" (Acts 10:39). The idea
seemed to affront God's Scripture - that the Messiah, "...had to suffer
and rise again from the dead...," or that "...'This Jesus Whom I preach
to you is the Christ"' (Acts 17:3). Do you see? They had grown
accustomed to an upside down universe.

The proclamation of a suffering Messiah seemed warped. It did not
persuade, but sounded blasphemous. The sticking point was the
Crucifixion of the Messiah. That God's world is inverted was clear
enough to the Jews, but to suggest that God Almighty would turn it
around through the suffering and death of His Messiah was a complete
stumbling block for the ruling majority (1 Cor. 1:23). How could Jesus'
Resurrection be believed! Most believed that the Kingdom of God would
come by God's intervention to restore the throne of King David by
military means. Crucifixion, and Resurrection, seemed both fanciful and
far-fetched.

Ah, but God is in Christ - He Who makes all things right! Death is
defeated, and Jesus our Lord sits forever at the right hand of the
Father. Such is the essence of the Gospel. Look at the upside-down
character of your own life. In Christ do you not know the pity, mercy,
longsuffering, and compassion of God is The Truth for you? Look at the
successful wars and revolutions of men. Which of the best of these
victories permanently stood this world right side up? Improvements,
perhaps, came, but only temporary ones. Herein is the eternal fact -
not fantasy: Christ is risen and the eternal Kingdom of God is at hand
now, despite you or me!

Rejoice, O Jerusalem and leap for joy, in that thou beholdest Christ the
King like a bridegroom come forth from the grave. Christ is risen!
Indeed, He is risen! Let us rejoice!

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

__._,_.___
To enroll send email to: orthodoxdynamis-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

To withdraw send email to: orthodoxdynamis-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
Recent Activity
Visit Your Group
Give Back

Yahoo! for Good

Get inspired

by a good cause.

Y! Toolbar

Get it Free!

easy 1-click access

to your groups.

Yahoo! Groups

Start a group

in 3 easy steps.

Connect with others.

.

__,_._,___
Posted by Metropolitan SYMEON at 5/23/2009 0 comments Links to this post

DYNAMIS, the Light of God, May 25, 2009, Feast, 3rd Discovery of the Head of the Forerunner



__________________________________________________________
2nd Corinthians 4:6-15 (5/25) Epistle:
Third Discovery of the Head of the Forerunner John

The Light of God: 2 Corinthians 4:6-15, especially vss. 8, 9: "We are
hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not
in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not
destroyed...."

The Apostle is not speaking here in hyperbole about the trials of his
life. Rather, he simply contrasts the Light of God with his personal
frailty, that we might see a glimmer of the Uncreated Light of God
through human weakness: "...we have this treasure in earthen vessels,
that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us" (vs. 7).

Through the ages the Faithful recognize with deep reverence and respect
the extraordinary catalog of sufferings endured by all the Apostles. If
we ask "For what?", men like St. John Chrysostom, who himself suffered
deadly trials for Christ, give us the answer in direct statements -
"...that Christ's life might be manifested in human bodies. What looks
like weakness and destitution in fact proclaims His Resurrection" - the
Light of God shines through!

Initially, light was God's signal beacon of creation, a great Divine
flare illumined the universe to display the power of its Creator, but,
when the Light of God became Incarnate, He "...shone in our hearts to
give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus
Christ" (vs. 6). The Incarnate Light of God signals re-creation, the
end of fallen existence and transient life. He gave something far more
important to us poor mortals groping in our dark, helpless state:
"...the true Light which gives light to every man...came to His own..."
and "...as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become
children of God..." (Jn. 1:9,11,12).

Do not fail to note that the coming of the Light of God in the flesh
created an ironic reversal as St. Paul poignantly notes: "...death is
working in us, but life in you" (2 Cor. 4:12). Yes, death, the
seemingly invincible enemy, lurks in every affliction - in your
diseases; material, moral, and spiritual poverty; defeated dreams;
betrayal by others; and your own personal failures.

Against this insurmountable phalanx of the cohorts of death comes the
Life-Giver, the Light of God. He enters your afflictions, shares them,
and overcomes them! "Come let us drink not miraculous water drawn forth
from a barren stone, but a new vintage from the fount of incorruption
springing from the tomb of Christ. In Him we are established!"

Whoever catches the gleam of the Divine Light, even in the midst of his
own deep, depraved darkness, is transformed in Christ into a child of
the Light. As a child of God you must speak concerning the Light of
God. You know the blessed, re-creating power of the Divine Light Who
illumines you. This is the power of the Light of God that St. Paul
proclaims in this passage: "...we have the same spirit of faith,
according to what is written, 'I believed and therefore I spoke,' we
also believe and therefore speak" (vs. 13). Do not deny that you
"...are always delivered to death for Jesus' sake, that the life of
Jesus also may be manifested in [your] mortal flesh" (vs. 11); and there
is a Divine reason that transforms and illumines you and me. Of this we
speak!

You know what the Light discloses to you: "...that He who raised up the
Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus..." (vs. 14). St. John
Chrysostom reiterates the Apostle's point this way: "God did not raise
Christ from the dead for the sake of one person only but for the benefit
of us all." The Incarnate Light acted for your sake and mine, "...that
grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound
to the glory of God" (vs. 15). Remember, the heart of our common
worship is praise and thanksgiving to the Lord of Light, Who shows us
"...the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ" - all appearances to
the contrary!

Glory to Thee Who hast shown us the Light.... We praise Thee, we bless
Thee, we worship Thee, we glorify Thee, we give thanks to Thee, O Lord,
heavenly King.

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

__._,_.___
To enroll send email to: orthodoxdynamis-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

To withdraw send email to: orthodoxdynamis-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
Recent Activity
Visit Your Group
Ads on Yahoo!

Learn more now.

Reach customers

searching for you.

Health Groups

for people over 40

Join people who are

staying in shape.

They fight

For our freedom

Support their kids

Fund learning

.

__,_._,___
Posted by Metropolitan SYMEON at 5/23/2009 0 comments Links to this post

Friday, May 22

DYNAMIS, Highest Authority, May 24, 2009, Sunday of the Blind Man



_Acts 16:16-34 (5/24) Apostle for the Sunday of
the Blind Man: the Sixth Sunday of Pascha_

Highest Authority: Acts 16:16-34 (include vss. 1-15), especially vss.
20, 21: "And they brought them to the magistrates, and said, 'These men,
being Jews, exceedingly trouble our city; and they teach customs which
are not lawful for us, being Romans, to receive or observe.'"

This passage from Acts reveals the budding conflict between the Gospel
and Greco-Roman culture. The message of God's Incarnate love for men
created conflict - as our Lord foretold (Mt. 10:34).

By Baptism, all Christians are committed to obey and follow Christ as
King and God in every aspect of life, placing Him as the first and
highest authority: "Thou shalt have no other gods before My face" (Deut.
5:7). Even today, allegiance to the Lord Jesus can result in conflict
with governments, man-devised conventions, and the many who admit no
claim from God upon their lives. As you read this passage, reflect on
the potential before you for conflict.

Observe that the Apostle Paul was annoyed and out of patience with the
persistent crying out of the demonized slave-girl. What she said was
true (Acts 16:16-18) - the Apostles were "...servants of the Most High
God...," and they were proclaiming "...the way of salvation..." (vs.
17). However, for the spiritually mature Apostles, her cries exposed an
anguish of soul, a person tormented by an unclean spirit. St. Paul knew
that an oppressive demon both possessed her and enabled her to practice
divination. The source of her powers came straight out of Hell.

Demonic powers always oppose the Church and the Gospel. Thus, when St.
Paul faced the demon, he knew that the power of the Holy Spirit was far
greater than the power of the spirit that possessed the wretched slave
(1 Jn. 4:4): "...'I command you in the Name of Jesus Christ to come out
of her'" (Acts 16:18). Brethren, these same demonic powers are active
all through modern culture. Being a Christian, you will inevitably come
into conflict with them.
The owners of the slave-girl appealed to the magistrates, declaring that
'non-Romans' had no right to teach 'foreign' religions that denied the
sacred Roman deities (vs. 21). It was their appeal that brought the
Apostles into conflict with Roman culture and law.

Actually, in the Roman Empire, many foreign religions were tolerated,
but only as long as they took their place alongside faith in the Roman
gods. Never forget that your Christian Baptism acknowledges only the
Lord Jesus as the sole Authority above other entities. Christ's
exclusivity was and is a problem. Our Lord commissioned the Apostles
and all of us to teach, live, and bring this truth to all people (Mt.
28:19). Today, as then, you face cultural forces in laws which
increasingly aim to force the Faithful to deny Christ as the Highest
Authority.

Finally, the response of the jailer illustrates another sort of conflict
that can arise for a Christian within the societies in which we live.
When the earthquake broke open the jail, the guard knew he had lost his
prisoners. He chose then to commit suicide, before his superiors would
execute him, but the Apostles' intervention saved him (vss. 27,28). He
assumed that self-interest would lead his prisoners to flee, but they
did not run! Rather, by calling out, they saved his life. This was a
new teaching - men cared for others above self, which clashed with
Greco-Roman practice. He begged the Apostles to teach him: "...'what
must I do to be saved?'" (vs. 30).

Consistent adherence to Christ as the highest authority in life may well
cause you to behave in ways that may surprise and shock others. As a
Christian, expect that the impact of your loyalty to Christ may very
well overturn others' assumptions. Be prepared to give an account for
the truth that is in you. It may save the lives of others around you in
many ways.

O Lord, deliver Thy creature from all bondage to the enemy, and receive
me into Thy heavenly kingdom. Open the eyes of my heart that Christ may
ever shine brightly within me.

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

__._,_.___
To enroll send email to: orthodoxdynamis-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

To withdraw send email to: orthodoxdynamis-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
Recent Activity
Visit Your Group
Give Back

Yahoo! for Good

Get inspired

by a good cause.

Y! Toolbar

Get it Free!

easy 1-click access

to your groups.

Yahoo! Groups

Start a group

in 3 easy steps.

Connect with others.

.

__,_._,___
Posted by Metropolitan SYMEON at 5/22/2009 0 comments Links to this post

Thursday, May 21

DYNAMIS, Differences of Opinion, May 23, 2009, Saturday of the 5th Week of Pascha



__________________________________________________________
Acts 15:35-41 (5/23)
Apostle for Saturday of the Fifth Week of Pascha

Differences of Opinion: Acts 15:35-41, especially vs. 39: "Then the
contention became so sharp that they parted from one another. And so
Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus."

Yes, there was a difference of opinion between two Apostles: Barnabas
and Paul: they did not agree whether John Mark should accompany them on
a missionary journey. The word translated as "contention" actually is
the root of our English word "paroxysm." It suggests that there were
very strong feelings on the part of both leaders. Acts records that in
response to the proposal that they take Mark along, Paul found him not
worthy, because earlier the young man "...had departed from them in
Pamphylia, and had not gone with them to the work" (vs. 38).

Ah, but St. John Chrysostom illumines the dispute. He points out that
it was "...not enmity nor quarreling. The contention availed so far as
to part them." They went separate ways. It is fair to imagine that
Barnabas was influenced by concern for John Mark, his cousin (Col.
4:10), but the beauty of God's providence reveals that the Mission was
furthered. They divided up the work - one team focusing on Cyprus and
the other applied energy to the churches in Syria and Cilicia. To the
glory of God the evidence shows that there were no negative effects on
the relationships among the three (2 Tim. 4:11; Philemon 24). Hence,
differences of opinion between Christians are not something necessarily
to be avoided at all costs in the Church.

Every aspect of truth in the Church, whether touching discipline, the
revelation, or worship, ultimately is only known fully and completely to
God. We humans are vessels through whom decisions, proposals, and
teachings come. One single individual can embrace only part of the
truth. God blesses the Church with the continuing presence of His Holy
Spirit to guide His Body into all truth (Jn. 16:13). Often, the Church
takes centuries to work through disagreements and find its way to a
sure, dogmatic statement concerning the Faith - like the Nicene Creed.

Even statements in the Creed have been further elaborated by later
Councils; and a graduated scale has evolved for describing the multitude
of teachings and statements about truth in the Church - from tentative
opinion (or "theologoumenon"), through doctrine, to dogma. The ability
to recognize such differences allows for and favors differences of
opinion and of style among those who hold firm and invariable "...the
Faith which was once for all delivered to the Saints" (Jude 3).

There are many influences that shape perspectives on issues in the
Church: one's age, gender, culture, language, education, spiritual
development, and experience - to name a few. The Holy Spirit adapts
these factors through the extended process of the decision-making within
the Church that results in balanced truth, the hallmark of Orthodox
learning and living.

In her ongoing life, the Church holds our Lord Jesus Christ, Incarnate
Divine Truth, as The "given." He came in the age before what we call
"the Church" was or searched for truth in her disputes, being the
ever-present One Whom we worship. He underlies, is prior to, all
theological thought worthy of the name. With the Lord Jesus as the
Foundation, issues in the Church often are resolved as they were by the
Apostles Paul and Barnabas - by separating efforts and allowing God to
manifest the fullness of truth. For example, John Mark was shown to be
worthy by authoring the earliest of the Gospels and by serving Paul in
prison (Col. 4:10).

If you labor to keep humility, you will not be led to hide differences,
but, rather, to approach them in honest candor, submitting to the will
of God. Of the parting between Barnabas and Paul, St. John Chrysostom
observes, that "...no evil did come of it...but a great good....For in
many things they acted upon their human judgment, for they were not
sticks or stones."

Lord, grant me wisdom to resist self-will and always to walk the path of
Thy truth.

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

__._,_.___
To enroll send email to: orthodoxdynamis-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

To withdraw send email to: orthodoxdynamis-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
Recent Activity
Visit Your Group
New business?

Get new customers.

List your web site

in Yahoo! Search.

Yahoo! Groups

Mom Power

Kids, family & home

Join the discussion

Group Charity

Hands On Network

Volunteering has

never been so easy

.

__,_._,___
Posted by Metropolitan SYMEON at 5/21/2009 0 comments Links to this post

Wednesday, May 20

DYNAMIS, Living Boundaries, May 22, 2009, Friday of the 5th Week of Pascha



__________________________________________________________
Acts 15:5-34 (5/22)
Apostle for Friday of the Fifth Week of Pascha

Living Boundaries: Acts 15:5-34 (include vss. 1-4), especially vss. 28,
29: "For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you
no greater burden than these necessary things: that you abstain from
things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from
sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well."

In the first millennium of the Christian era, the nascent Church sailed
into the sea of Gentile culture, firm in purpose to disciple all
peoples. As a result, the early Fathers were forced to define their
relationship both with the Judaism from which they arose, and with the
pagan world into which they took the Gospel.

As Gentiles [from a Latin root for "peoples"] entered the Church (Acts
13:48,49), details of the Mosaic Law became the focus of a crisis within
the fledgling Church. Some Christians devoutly believed that unless one
was "...circumcised according to the custom of Moses, [he could not] be
saved" (Acts 15:1). These disciples asserted that "...It is necessary
to circumcise [Gentile converts], and to command them to keep the law of
Moses" (vs. 5).

The present passage from Acts briefly describes the Apostolic Council
that met "...to consider this matter" (vs. 6). The decision of that
gathering is summarized in verses 28 and 29 quoted above. The final
statement of that Council demonstrates the way in which the young
Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, remained faithful, both to ancient
revelation given to Moses and to the new and final revelation received
in and from the Lord Jesus. For you, as an Orthodox Christian living
two millennia later, the Council's decision provides a guide both to the
Mosaic Law and to your struggle to remain "...unspotted from the world"
(Jas. 1:27).

The Council directed Gentiles to abstain totally from idol-sacrifices,
not even to eat the meat offered to idols. Christianity shares with
Judaism a high sense of the purity, dignity, and centrality of the
worship of God (Deut. 5:7-9). Coming daily into contact with the
worshipers of sects, denominations, and non-Christian temples, because
of the pluralistic nature of many modern societies, you need to guard
our Holy Faith by not frequenting the meetings or worship of other
religious groups. How can you expect to learn truth from others by
indulging in the superstitions and practices some of them promote?
There often is good spiritual insight in what others say, but you do
best to receive the Truth through the cleansing of the Church's
tradition of worship, Scripture, and words of the Holy Fathers. Shall
we go outside the Church to learn the Faith? God forbid! Turn to the
spiritual resources provided at home!

The Apostles were keenly aware of traditional sensitivities within
congregations of mixed cultures - having both Jewish and Gentile
members. Jewish Christians were raised to eat meat only if drained of
its blood and never would consume blood as food (Lev. 17:10-12). For
Gentile Christians (formerly pagans), such a detail was no issue.
Today, Orthodoxy is a world-wide Faith, embracing a wide variety of
ethnic traditions. The need for mutual respect continues to be urgent:
carefully delineate what is of the essence of the Faith and what is
not. Also, watch that you never give offense to a fellow Christian (1
Cor. 8:12).

Finally, the Council ordered all Christians to keep themselves "...from
sexual immorality" (Acts 15:29), literally from "porneia." That
included all forms of extra-marital relations and obscenity. Often,
pagan worship incorporated sexual libertinism. Among the People of God,
for whom marriage is an icon of the mystery between Christ and the
Church (Eph. 5:22-33), the sanctification of all behavior is essential.
Greco-Roman culture, like modern secular culture, was rife with
perversions. Be holy as our Lord Jesus is holy.

Enlighten the eyes of my heart to keep Thy commandments with love unfeigned.

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

__._,_.___
To enroll send email to: orthodoxdynamis-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

To withdraw send email to: orthodoxdynamis-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
Recent Activity
Visit Your Group
Give Back

Yahoo! for Good

Get inspired

by a good cause.

Y! Toolbar

Get it Free!

easy 1-click access

to your groups.

Yahoo! Groups

Start a group

in 3 easy steps.

Connect with others.

.

__,_._,___
Posted by Metropolitan SYMEON at 5/20/2009 0 comments Links to this post

Tuesday, May 19

DYNAMIS, Episcopeo / Oversight, May 21, 2009, Thursday of the Fifth Week of Pascha



__________________________________________________________
Acts 14:20-27 (5/21)
Epistle for Thursday of the Fifth Week of Pascha

Episkopeo/Oversight: Acts 14:20-27, especially vs. 23: "So when they had
appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they
commended them to the Lord in Whom they had believed."

In this reading from Acts, you can follow the Apostles Paul and Barnabas
on their first "church planting" journey. But read St. Luke's account
carefully, and realize that he only recorded "highlights." Omitted are
many details of first-century travel on foot, in Roman sailing ships, or
by campfires. Congregations always are built slowly. It takes time to
develop healthy, healing spiritual communities. Thus, of the days when
the Apostles were training wise leaders for their congregations, few
descriptions are left; but now, as then, leaders are needed in Christ's
communities: to answer inevitable questions, correct error, and
encourage and exhort the Faithful. Yes, providing ongoing oversight was
a major Apostolic activity (Acts 15:36).

The New Testament words for "overseeing" derive from the verb
"episkopeo," to "watch over." During the earliest decades, "oversight"
was carried out by the Apostles (2 Cor. 11:28). Then, as the Apostles
were martyred, the local shepherds they appointed continued watching
over the new congregations. "Oversight" remains as a chief function of
Bishops, episkopoi - aided by Presbyters or elders. How is
Apostolic-style oversight carried out in practice?

The present reading discloses the main facets of oversight:
strengthening of souls (Acts 14:22) and the ordination of additional
leaders (vs. 23) - "elders" or presbyteroi. Notice that when St. Paul's
Apostolic group returned to the congregations they had formed, their
foremost goal was strengthening "...the souls of the disciples..." (vs.
22), which they accomplished through three major activities:
exhortation, encouragement, and commendation (vss. 22,23).

Exhortation was especially important because the pagan environment in
which the tiny new churches were planted was rife with immorality and
temptations. Sound familiar? It was important to establish the
distinctly Christian life, a "walk" worthy of the calling in Christ (2
Thess. 1:11). So, for example, St. Paul had to say to the new
Corinthian church, "I wrote to you...not to keep company with sexually
immoral people. Yet I certainly did not mean with the sexually immoral
people of this world...since then you would need to go out of the
world. But...not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is
sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater..." (1 Cor. 5:9-11). Do
you and I not need such exhortation and prayers today?!

Similarly, the Faithful always need encouragement in the life in Christ:
to love one another, cope with life's difficulties and sorrows, and
apply the words and deeds of the Saints and Apostles (1 Cor. 11:1). As
the Apostles pled with their new disciples, so they plead with you and
me: "...to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with
all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one
another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond
of peace" (Eph. 4:1-3). Pray that they continue to intercede for you.

Finally, the Apostles directed the thoughts and prayers of their
converts toward the Lord Jesus - as we do in the Liturgy: "...let us
commend ourselves, and each other, and all our life unto Christ our
God." St. Paul did not hesitate to hold up his own dependency on
Christ. "Therefore most gladly I will rather glory in my infirmities,
that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in
infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses,
for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong" (2 Cor.
12:9,10). And this, Beloved, is why the Church in its oversight,
teaches the regular use of the Jesus prayer. Cry out, as your pastors
teach, and commend yourself to the Lord in your necessities,
infirmities, and temptations.

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy upon me, a sinner.

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

__._,_.___
To enroll send email to: orthodoxdynamis-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

To withdraw send email to: orthodoxdynamis-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
Recent Activity
Visit Your Group
Give Back

Yahoo! for Good

Get inspired

by a good cause.

Y! Toolbar

Get it Free!

easy 1-click access

to your groups.

Yahoo! Groups

Start a group

in 3 easy steps.

Connect with others.

.

__,_._,___
Posted by Metropolitan SYMEON at 5/19/2009 0 comments Links to this post

Modus Operandi

Acts 13:13-34 (5/20)
Apostle for Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Pascha

Modus Operandi: Acts 13:13-24, especially vss. 14, 15: "...they came to
Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and
sat down. And after the reading of the Law and the Prophets, the rulers
of the synagogue sent to them, saying, 'Men and brethren, if you have
any word of exhortation for the people, say on.'"

St. Paul and his companions attended the synagogue in Pisidian Antioch
and followed a consistent pattern of missionary work exhibited
throughout Acts (e.g. 13:5; 14:1). Following arrival in a new
community, when the Sabbath came, the Apostolic teams attended services
at the synagogue or other gathering places of Jews for worship. There
are eight instances of this type of occurrence scattered through the Acts.

In the present day, numbers of visitors come to our churches to inquire
about the Faith. This passage from Acts reveals principles derived from
the Apostles concerning presentation of the Faith. Three stand out: 1)
use whatever existing, natural, and shared beliefs you may have with
those who want explanations of Orthodoxy, 2) consider the experience and
knowledge of those who come, and 3) keep the focus on the Lord and the
Gospel.

The very act of going to services on the Sabbath represented a conscious
effort by the Apostolic teams to connect with local people in the most
natural way possible. They did not go to the rulers of the synagogue
and ask to speak. Honestly and correctly they came as visiting, fellow
Jews. They used whatever opportunities developed from existing shared
beliefs and background. In your "meetings" with those who come to your
parish, seek to act as did St. Paul, beginning with what is known and
shared in belief, finding common ground that is obvious and natural, and
only later proceeding to what may be new or different.

If you establish a link with those who come seeking, they will much more
easily follow your presentation and hear the truths you have to share.
Notice: in St. Paul's statements, he began with the common, well-known
history of Israel (Acts 13:17-22). The effect of such an approach is to
affirm those who are listening so they may consider new truths and
overcome barriers and strangeness within an open atmosphere for learning.

Next, in St. Paul's opening words, he took into account the composition
of his audience. The Apostle saw immediately that, in addition to Jews,
there were present also "God-fearers" - Gentiles sympathetic to
Judaism. "God-fearers" were common in the first-century Greco-Roman
synagogues. The monotheism and morality of Judaism were drawing many
who were dissatisfied with the empty superstitions of paganism. Still,
there were barriers in Judaism that held off inquirers: circumcision,
the dietary laws, and the implicit rejection of their non-Jewish
heritage. In appropriate ways, be sensitive to and honest about any
notable differences among your listeners - consider age, social, and
religious affiliations, etc.

Even though today's reading presents only the opening lines of St.
Paul's speech (vss. 17-24), it is clear that the Apostle early turned
his message to a central point - the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior of all
mankind. Think about our churches. What is central in them? What
stands out above all else in our worship? Of course it is the Lord
Jesus Christ, our King and our God. His icons are central. In almost
every prayer, He is either named or addressed directly. In the Divine
Liturgy, the Holy Gifts are His true Body and Blood received for the
cleansing of our souls, the hallowing of our thoughts, the enlightenment
of our hearts - for our establishment in Him. As with St. Paul, be sure
you place the Lord Jesus Christ in primary focus before guests whenever
you share your Orthodox Christian Faith with them.

Lord, Thou art our life and salvation. Glory to Thee Who hast shown us
the Light!
Posted by Metropolitan SYMEON at 5/19/2009 0 comments Links to this post

Monday, May 18

DYNAMIS, A Convert's Testimony, May 21, 2009, Feast of Constantine & Helena



__________________________________________________________
Acts 26:1-5, 12-20 (5/21) Apostle for
the Feast of Saints Constantine & Helen, Isapostolos

A Convert's Testimony: Acts 26:1-5, 12-20, especially vss. 19, 20: "...I
was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, but declared first to those
in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea,
and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do
works befitting repentance."

This passage from Acts describes the Apostle Paul testifying at a
judicial examination before King Agrippa. He was answering a demand for
his execution, on charges brought against him by the Jewish Sanhedrin.
Observe that, at the hearing, the Apostle spoke of his first encounter
with the risen, glorified Christ - an event that occurred years before
and resulted in his conversion to the Faith. St. Luke describes St.
Paul's conversion in Acts 9:1-25. You will gain greater understanding
if you read all the verses from Acts 26:1-20, including 6-11.

A wise Priest once pointed out that every Christian is a convert,
whether raised as Orthodox from birth or converted later in life. By
comparing St. Paul's testimony concerning his conversion to Christianity
with your own experience in the Faith, you have a chance to deepen your
appreciation of the riches that are yours in Christ Jesus (Eph. 1:7,8).
Consider Paul's openness concerning the state of his heart and soul
before his encounter with Christ our God, the manner in which the Lord
revealed Himself, and the purpose for which He appeared to him.

The Apostle provides a detailed list of his offenses against "...the
Name of Jesus of Nazareth" and "...many of the saints..." both "...in
Jerusalem..." as well as in "...foreign cities" (Acts 26:9,10,11). He
prefaces his account of his sins by identifying their cause: his
personal devotion to living faithfully as a Jew following the strict
precepts of the sect of the Pharisees (vs. 5). He admits his error and
moral wrongs with thorough, stark honesty. He openly confesses his rage
at Christians, his complicity in forcing people to blaspheme, and his
guilt in abetting judicial arrest, imprisonment, and murder (vss.
10,11). Learn from this Apostle to search your heart and soul deeply
and to make your confessions with similar, unrestrained openness.

Having bared fully his former manner of life before the assembled
dignitaries who were hearing his case, the Apostle continued by
describing his encounter with Christ. Notice: he did not say that he
learned about Jesus' Resurrection (vs. 15). Rather, the glorified and
reigning Lord Jesus confronted him and formed an ongoing bond with him
(vs. 16). Christian faith is not knowledge of details and historic
information. It is relationship with the living God.

Nicetas Stethatos urges hastening in prayer to Christ that He would
raise you from the dead as the Lord did Lazarus. "Behold, Lord, just as
of old in Thy compassion Thou did raise Thy friend Lazarus with awesome
authority, so in Your great mercy give life to us all."

Speaking from a firm faith in a living relationship with Christ Jesus,
Saint Paul then described the ministry which the Lord Jesus placed upon
him: "...to open [men's] eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to
light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive
forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by
faith..." in Christ (vs. 18). He knew that the Living Lord can enable
anyone to pray to Him, repent, and do works befitting repentance (vs.
20). Note that the Apostle both describes his past life as bound in the
darkness of Satan's thrall, and details the mission to which all
Christians are committed by the Lord.

Just as you cannot be forgiven if you do not forgive, so also you cannot
shine forth the Light of Christ unless you first have His light in
you. Do not hesitate to confess your sins in true honesty, seek the
risen Lord in prayer, and allow His light to shine through you.

O Glorious Apostle Paul, teacher of the churches, plead thou that we may
preserve thy good confession unto our last breath through thine
intercession for us before Christ our God.

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

__._,_.___
To enroll send email to: orthodoxdynamis-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

To withdraw send email to: orthodoxdynamis-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
Recent Activity
Visit Your Group
Search Ads

Get new customers.

List your web site

in Yahoo! Search.

Yahoo! Groups

Cat Owners Group

Connect and share with

others who love their cats

Yahoo! Groups

Everyday Wellness Zone

Check out featured

healthy living groups.

.

__,_._,___
Posted by Metropolitan SYMEON at 5/18/2009 0 comments Links to this post

The Holy Spirit

________________________________________________________

Acts 12:25-13:12 (5/19)
Apostle for Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Pascha
The Holy Spirit: Acts 12:25-13:12, especially vs. 2:
"As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, 'Now separate to Me
Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.'"

While the Person and ministry of Christ our God constitute the subject
matter of the four Gospels, the Person of God the Holy Spirit and His
ministry dominate the early Church history found in the Acts of the
Apostles, for the Spirit is named in almost every chapter. In the few
chapters where He is not specifically identified, His presence and work
will be manifestly evident "between the lines" to any perceptive reader.

Look, for instance at Acts 14:9,23; 27:10.
The Acts passage assigned for today provides three examples of God the
Holy Spirit at work, ordaining, sending, and bestowing charisms. In each
of the cases, notice how carefully the Spirit of God carries out His
ministry - invariably in cooperation - in synergy with flesh-and-blood
human beings who are open to Him and seeking His graces. Should not this
be each of us!?

Take the ordination of Barnabas and Saul as Apostles: the infilling
action of the Holy Spirit came upon these two when they were already
serving as prophets and teachers, in ministries of the Church at Antioch
(Acts 13:1). They were well-known for their godliness and spiritual
illumination (Acts 9:19-20,27; 11:22-26). They provide a clear instance
of existing leaders moving from lesser to greater ministries. It is the
Spirit's way in Orthodox Christianity.

Next, observe the liturgical setting: "As they ministered to the Lord
and fasted..." (Acts 13:2) - or literally, "As they performed the
liturgy to the Lord and fasted...." The pattern continues today, for
Ordinations still occur within the context of the Divine Liturgy.
What about the fasting? It is not stated if their ordination occurred
during a fasting season or in anticipation of ordination. St. John
Chrysostom believed that it was for ordination. "A great, yes a great
good is fasting: it is circumscribed by no limits. When need was to
ordain, then they fast: and to them while fasting, the Spirit spake."
But heed his point about the worship and fasting - that "...there was
need of great sobriety." May such be your model for your life!
What does it mean, "...the Holy Spirit said..." (vs. 2)? God clearly has
instructed the Church to proclaim the Gospel to the nations (Mt. 28:19;
Acts 11:18). Obediently, in Antioch the Church did so; and their pagan
neighbors saw the Spirit working for "...a great number believed and
turned to the Lord" (Acts 11:21). Within the good order of the Church,
members and leaders of pure hearts still hear the Holy Spirit speaking
in their hearts; and they act in obedience.

What about the thousands and millions beyond Antioch? One does not have
to think long to understand why St. John Chrysostom believed there was a
"need to ordain." The Spirit was speaking to them by moving within their
hearts. No audible theophany was needed. Through their prophets and
teachers, they agreed in the Spirit as He poured wisdom upon them. They
opened themselves through worship and fasting, and the Spirit revealed
His candidates. The community heard and understood: these were "worthy."
Then, after additional fasting and prayer, they "...laid hands on
them..." (Acts 13:3) This is why our Bishops take candidates before us
and say, "Wherefore, let us pray for him, that the grace of the all-Holy
Spirit may come upon him."

The Holy Spirit, by ordination, sent them forth. Also, being men, they
needed His grace for ministry. But, since the Life-giving Spirit ever
"...completeth that which is wanting ...through the laying on of hands."
Thus, wherever Barnabas and Saul went, the Spirit guided them (Acts
13:4) with His charisms, His gifts of knowledge, and insight - even when
they met perversion (vs. 10). As St. John Chrysostom notes: "...it shows
that the Spirit did all."

Through communion with Thee, O Blessed Spirit, may we ever serve Christ
our Lord.
Posted by Metropolitan SYMEON at 5/18/2009 0 comments Links to this post
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)

Upcoming Feast Days

Loading...

Orthodox Christianity::Calendars, Names - Sites Updates

Loading...

Orthodox Church News

Loading...

Православље

Loading...

Orthodox Christianity - New Orthodox RSS-Channels

Loading...