Day 10 (2nd Wednesday of the Great Fast)

“And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.” (Luke 6:31)

5. “It is unpleasant for you when people divulge your shortcomings and especially your vices. Therefore when you see the weaknesses and vices of others do not announce them to everyone for ‘[Love]… bears all things,… endures all things.’ (1 Cor 13:4-7).

6. You do not like it when others treat you roughly and offend you in some way. Therefore you should treat everyone kindly without exception. Be especially careful not to use swear words or offensive ones. If it so happens that someone treats you crudely, angrily, and says unpleasant things to you, then answer him meekly, for, ‘a soft answer turns away wrath.’ (Prov 15:1). If it happens that because of an offence you become angry with your neighbor, then say nothing for immediately your anger will flame up, and in an impassioned state you are likely to consider it necessary to say something that later [you’ll] sorely regret, but will be incapable of correcting. While angry say nothing but wait until you have completely calmed down. If your neighbor is for some reason very angry with you, do not attempt to talk him out of it, even if it seems very necessary, for while he is in the heat of anger the passion is in control of him and not his reason, therefore you must not try to dissuade him - it is impossible to speak convincingly to someone out of his mind, your words will only make him more angry and force him to do something possibly harmful to you.

7. You are pleased when people help you when you are in need. Therefore, strive yourself, as much as you can, to help your neighbor in all of his needs, For almsgiving delivers from death, and it will purge away every sin. Those who perform deeds of charity and of righteousness will have fullness of life.’ (Tobit 12:9), the Word of God tells us.”

Metropolitan Gregory (Postikov) of St Petersburg.

2nd Wednesday of the Holy Great Fast.

• (Day 10) Love your neighbor as yourself (ii)
• (Day 9) Love your neighbor as yourself
• Day 8) Through your love for God
• (Day 7) Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness
• (Day 6) Give your heart to God
• (Day 5) Make God Himself your way
• (Day 4) How? Seek to grow in the likeness of God
• (Day 3) How? Unite with God through prayer 
• (Day 2) How? Fulfill the will of God
• (Day 1) How? Be devoted to God
• How To Live a Holy Life (The Holy Great Fast 2018)