Проповедь о Честном и Животворящем Кресте

It is impossible for evil passions and a sinful world to completely leave us if we do not achieve Divine contemplation. He who is worthy to contemplate God is freed from the power of passions, crucifying the world and crucifying the world within himself. For us, this crucifixion of the flesh with its passions and lusts is the Cross of Christ. The body torments us, and therefore everyone must lift it to the height of the Cross. I ask you, my brothers, do not be embarrassed when you hear such words. We proclaim to you the undistorted, good and pleasing and perfect will of God. It is unacceptable to be embarrassed, believing that all this is impossible to accomplish. We must clearly realize that the Kingdom of Heaven is taken by force and those who make efforts gain it (cf. Matthew 11:12). And the Apostle Peter emphasizes that “Christ suffered for us, leaving us a perfect example, so that we would follow His steps” (cf. 1 Peter 2:21). If someone is unable to do what is necessary, then let him strive and do what he can and wants. And at the same time let him humble himself before Christ, thus attracting His compassion. Christ will supply everything that is lacking. We need to raise our thoughts to the height of the Cross. However, let's look at how to get started. Inner strength is trust in Christ. A person must strive in order to renounce his own body and pick up his cross. Do you see, for example, how the thought of fornication wriggles within you? Know that you have not crucified yourself yet. But how is it possible to crucify oneself? Avoiding immodest images, sinful habits, inappropriate conversations. By limiting yourself to food that intensifies passions, by refusing comfort and convenience, and, finally, by calling on God with heartfelt contrition. If you are able to cut off the pursuit of passion, but at the same time you find that a passionate thought is attacking you from the outside, do not be afraid. This is a crown for you, because you have become a winner in your struggle for God. Such are the word of the cross, the wisdom and power of God. You must overcome your weakness and ascend with humility. The image of the Cross is a sacred seal that saves and is honored, sanctifying and making one a participant in the excellent and ineffable blessings that are given to the human race by God. The cross is the power that abolishes curse and condemnation, the power that destroys corruption and death. Eternal life and blessing are hidden in the Cross. The cross is a saving tree, a royal scepter, a Divine banner against visible and invisible enemies, and let the followers of carnal wisdom and heresy madly close their ears, not wanting to hear these words. Christ died nailed to this tree of the Cross. On the Cross, the promissory note drawn up against us for disobedience in paradise was torn up. The principalities and powers of the unclean spirits, completely ashamed, withdrew from the Tree of the Cross. And Christ and I have triumphantly acquired freedom again. Through the Cross we have been reconciled to Christ. So, really, after the sacrifice of the Sinless One, we will not honor this Divine banner of liberation of the human race and use it, driving away demons and shaming the evil serpent - the devil. The cross glorifies and magnifies Christ, pointing people to His victory. So let us bow our hearts as we kneel. Let us bow to the Honest Tree, to which the feet and hands of the Almighty of the Universe were nailed, on which His Life-Giving Body was spread out. By venerating the Honest Cross and kissing it with faith, we will always receive abundant sanctification. Let us treasure the Life-Giving Cross as a precious treasure.