Yeah, I’m blogging again. A ruptured hand tendon and the surgery has left my right hand not as great of a typing tool as it used to be. But I still have ideas to share that may be helpful in someone’s spiritual journey. There is no excuse for me not to try my best.
Which leads me to this week’s article. I have to be a responsible elder brother. In a sermon to the St. Mary’s parish of Minneapolis, MN in1899, Bishop Tikhon encouraged the faithful to “be an example in conduct, in spirit, in faith, in purity (I Timothy 4:12) and to “Let your light shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify God (Matthew 5:16).(1) The best thing I do as an Orthodox clergyman is to live the life in my hometown of West Point and in the outreach field in Richmond’s East End.
Wallowing in the sorrow of past failed attempts in ministry is a guaranteed means that no seed of the Church will be planted and watered in either place. Retreating to and making excuses for past sins turns me into a hypocrite as things that are hidden will surely be revealed.(2) A good elder brother knows he’s being watched by siblings who learn by example and grown ups (parents in particular) who will hold him accountable.
So, let me return to this platform as I continue to show consistency in prayer. May I have courage to execute other ideas as well for God’s glory and the growth of His Church. May I be a good big brother.
- St. Tikhon of Moscow, Instructions and Teachings for the American Orthodox Faithful (1898-1907) pg. 20
- St. Tikhon, pg.29, Luke 12:1-3
St. Djan Darada Fellowship 
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