Church Bulletin - July 6, 2003 - Third Sunday of Matthew

Third Sunday of Matthew - July 6, 2003
[ Click here for the Bible readings: Rom 5:1-10; Mt 6:22-33]

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"LABORING" FOR THE LORD

We have all heard of a good deed or kind action described as a "labor of love." If we would carefully study that alliterative phrase, we might be tempted to question the grouping of the words "labor" and "love" together. When we labor, we often struggle greatly. Love on the other hand, is a virtue that is supposes to flow freely and easily.

In reality, love and its corresponding fruits require a great deal of effort on our part. Raising a family in a world where Christian family values are scorned and ridiculed is a "labor of love." Being faithful to a spouse in a society that condones, and even encourages, infidelity is a "labor of love." Remaining loyal to our Orthodox Faith when others around us have few or no spiritual ties is a "labor of love."

As is the case with manual labor, "labors of love" can cause us to feel tired and worn out. We may even wonder if our efforts really matter. It is at times like this that we must remind ourselves of the greatest "labor of love" that the world has ever seen: Christ's Incarnation and subsequent Crucifixion and Resurrection. "For God so loved the world that He gave His Only-Begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16) Bringing us the gift of salvation was no easy task for our Lord. His labors in our behalf were matched by His love for us.

Psalm 104 tell us that ". . . man goes out to work and to labor until evening." God expects all of us to live productive lives. Let us never forget, however that He also desires that we live "loving" lives as well.

St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
1260 Davis Street - Church
986 Chapman Street - Office
San Jose, California 95126