All my dearly beloved in Christ

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my paths" ( Psalms 119:105 )

The Gospel reading for the 5th Sunday after Easter is from S. Luke 9: 57-62.


I want to share two points.

1. This scripture teaches that there is a cost to discipleship.
The disciple relinquishes personal or earthly security- if the Lord has nowhere to lay His head; Nothing can be an obstacle to serving the Lord , not even the honor due to parents and we cannot delay in accomplishing virtues. Now a days, every one is in face to face with a common human problem. Each of us is faced with the same choice. Only by renouncing our unhealthy dependency can we receive lasting spiritual treasure --- a healthy, fulfilling relationship with God, ourself, and others. Think: if the invisible virus can scare us then the Invisible God also has the power to save us. Now is the time to embrace density UNDER THE GRACIOUS WINGS OF THE ALMIGHTY. Find ways to over come from the challenges of pandemic depression with insight of finding good things that has come from this crisis. Habakkuk 3:2 says: “ Lord, I have heard Your report and was afraid; I considered Your works and was greatly astonished. You shall be known between the two living creatures; In the approaching years You shall be acknowledged; You will be revealed when the time comes. When my soul is troubled, You will in wrath remember mercy.” Remember, ‘ before we ask God for anything, we must first thank Him for everything . Search for a beautiful heart and not necessarily a beautiful face. Beautiful people are not always good but good people are always beautiful. ‘ Any gift that comes from goodness has an inexhaustible source and can deeply care about everything.

2. A changing world.
A changing world with a modern world after the epidemic challenges rebirth in life . This is the time to find new approach with DIVINE WISDOM THOUGHTS of Biblical characters. We can find a better search to help us cope with uncertain future. Remember, It is our attitude at the beginning of a difficult task, which, more than anything else, will affects its successful outcome. Remember, the attitude that comes from selfishness leads to death, but the attitude that comes from the spirit leads to life and peace.

We are saluting to all helping hands during the crisis especially in medical fields and essential work force.
As we observe May 12 as NURSE DAY, we bow our heads to all Nurses. They are shining models and examples of Florence Nightingale who was born on May 12, 1820. The commitment to profession is a sign of following Christ. May God help and bless us to be aware the uncertain times and unintended consequence and including a mental illness crisis. Our will power with commitment to life can be refreshed under gracious wings of God. Deuteronomy 31:6 says: “Be valiant and strong, do not fear nor be afraid of them, nor be terrified before them; for the Lord your God , He is the One who goes before you and with you and among you. He will not leave you nor forsake you." Trust in the inspired words and commit to Him who is our Helper and Strength.

May God Almighty bless us all with peace of mind, happiness and motivation . Amen 

With prayers,
V. Rev. Dr. Varughese Plamthottathil Chor Episcopos
Vicar and President of St. Baselios Orthodox Church, New York, U.S.A.