Protecting their Ignorance

About Bishop St. Theophane the Recluse

About "old" and "new" calendar

July 15 (28)

Rom. 10:1-10; Mt. 8:28-9:1

Even though the Gergesenes have seen the great miracle of the Lord — casting out the legion of devils from a possessed man — nonetheless the whole city came out and “besought Him that He would depart out of their coasts'" [Mt. 8:34]. No hostility towards the Lord can be seen in them, but no faith either. They were moved by some sort of uncertain fear, asking the Lord for one thing only: “Go away, anywhere you want, don’t bother us Г

This is truly an image of those who dwell quietly in their possessions. Their circumstances seem favorable for them; they have gotten used to them, having no wish, nor any need for changes, so they are wary of anything new. Yet they realize that if the voice of God calls them to renounce something old and accept something new — then the fear of God and their own conscience would not allow them to refuse that demand. Therefore, they desperately try to hide from any trials and challenges w'hich might affect their mindset, — to protect their quiet life and the old habits under the presumed cover of ignorance.

Such are those who are afraid of reading the Gospel and the holy Fathers, afraid of discussing religion, afraid of awakening their conscience which might force them to change their lives.

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