Письмо 16

I believe that the burden placed on you is heavy - the rule of the monastery and the care of the souls entrusted to you, in the face of disorder and confusion that arises between the sisters; carry it, ask for help from God, He is able to relieve you. You fulfill obedience, and this is a good yoke and a light burden for those who will and for God's sake care about the peace of others who seek salvation: no one has greater love than this, but whoever lays down his life for his friends (John 15:13), and they, after confusion, will come to the understanding of truth and by the grace of God will achieve salvation; and you will receive reward for your patience; and Moses, leading the Israelites to the Promised Land, endured tribulations for 40 years from those who grumbled and rebelled against him, and entered, although not into earthly, but into heavenly Jerusalem. Read in the lives of the holy shepherds, what sorrows they endured while defending the flock of Christ from the wolves - destroying heretics and apostates; even with their blood they sealed and confirmed the holiness of the dogmas of the Church, by which the Orthodox are saved to this day. What would happen without patience? And when would they leave the flock and go away? The devil, like a roaring lion, walks around looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8), and you have been placed on guard; Having seen the wolf coming, do not leave the sheep, lest he plunder and scatter them; – May God help you with His grace. I ask you not to leave me in your prayers and I remain a wisher for your health and salvation, an unworthy prayer book, a great sinner I.M. You might be interested in: