How Do You Respond to the Word

About Bishop St. Theophane the Recluse

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July 13 (26)

Rom. 16:1-16; Mt. 13:4-9

The parable of the sower [Mt. 13:4-9] shows different attitudes which we have towards the word of God.

First, there are people who do not heed to the word at all: they hear it, but it does not enter into their souls, remaining on the surface, like a seed by the wayside. They don’t hold the word for they have an opposite mindset, opposite principles and tastes, — and so the word very soon disappears from their memory altogether, as if it has never been heard.

Second, there are those who listen to the word willingly and accept it immediately, but would not do anything to fulfill it. Thus, as long as nothing is demanded from them, they take much pleasure in the word of God, and in particular in His promises, but no later than a price has to be paid for being faithful to His word, they betray it, turning away from both the word and the promises for the sake of their worldly affections.

Third are those who accept the word of God and begin to live accordingly, but then get swayed by the cares and concerns of this world, by the earthly interests which suppress anything good that the word of God has implanted and developed in their souls.

Finally, the fourth are those who accept the word of God with complete faith and resolve to live by it, as the Lord demands from them, ready for any effort and sacrifice, guarding their hearts from any earthly bondage.

Now sit down and think carefully, which group you belong to.

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