45. Разумная голова

Just as the body has a head, then in Christian society there is a shepherd and a boss. When the body has a reasonable head, the whole body is in good condition. Likewise, when a Christian society has a reasonable shepherd and leader, then that society is in good condition. Happy is the body in which there is a reasonable head. So blessed is that Christian flock in which there is a reasonable, kind and cheerful shepherd. Blessed is the kingdom in which a reasonable and good King reigns. Blessed is that city and country that is ruled by a wise and kind ruler. Blessed are those slaves over whom a wise master rules. Blessed are those children who have a reasonable and kind father. Blessed is any home that has a reasonable and kind owner. Everything - both happiness and unhappiness - in any society depends on the ruler, just as the integrity of the body depends on the head. Oh, beloved, shepherd and every leader! You are the light of Christian society. All people are looking at you: what you do and what you say, just as we all look at a candle burning in the night. So be a light, that those who look at you may be enlightened. Be like a mirror, looking into which people wipe away the blemishes on their faces. Be like a smart head on your body. If you are reasonable and kind, then the entire Christian society subordinate to you will be blessed, and you will be the most blessed: “if the light that is in you is darkness, then how great is the darkness” (Matthew 6:23)? And if the lamp goes out, how will those in darkness be enlightened? And if the mirror darkens, where will people see their vices? Be, beloved, reasonable and kind - and you will gain bliss for yourself and God’s people! “So,” says Christ the Lord to you, “let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). And since all the bliss of Christian society depends on reasonable and good shepherds and leaders, then you, people named for Christ, do not cease to pray to the common Master of all, Christ, to enlighten and instruct the shepherds and other Christian leaders, for this is your bliss! “I urge, therefore, first of all, that prayers, petitions, supplications, and thanksgivings be made for all men, for kings and for all those in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and purity” (1 Timothy 2:1-2). You might be interested in: