A HEART OF SACRIFICE FOR THE COMMON GOOD

By Metropolitan-Emeritus Stefan Soroka

We are bombarded daily with messages which reveal the steadfast rivalry between various political and social groups. Each contends that they are acting in the interests of all in society. Panels of media ‘experts’ debate the merits of what people in power say and do. Yet, there is a reluctance to surrender to some common ground. Where is the gift of sacrifice in the interests of the other, the common good? St. Paul, In his Epistle to the Philippians, exhorts us to “do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for his own interests, but also everyone for those of others. Have among yourselves the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:3-5).

Jesus died voluntarily on the cross; his sacrifice for you and for me for our salvation. Resolve to not allow yourself to succumb to the rivalries in society. Resolve to live with greater humility. Let go of rigid attitudes and perceptions. Resolve to show greater understanding for the benefit of the common good. A Blessed Journey in Great Fast!

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