“If you understand this, blessed are you if you do it.” (John 13:17)
Saint Cyril of Alexandria reflects on this verse from today’s Gospel, writes:
“It is not the knowledge of virtue but rather the practice of it that may be appropriately called worthy of both love and enthusiasm. Whenever actions go hand in hand with knowledge, then assuredly there is no small gain. But when either is lacking, the other will be seriously crippled. And it is written, even faith apart from works is dead. Although the knowledge of God who is one even in nature, and the confession of God in guilelessness and truth is all included in faith, even this is dead if it is not accompanied by the bright light that proceeds from works. Surely, therefore, it is utterly profitless merely to know what is good and yet have no desire to practice it at once.” (Commentary on the Gospel of John, 9)
Easter Collect
O God,
Who restore human nature
to yet greater dignity than at its beginnings,
look upon the amazing mystery
of Your loving kindness,
and in those You have chosen to make new
through the wonder of rebirth
may You preserve the gifts
of Your enduring grace and blessing.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,
Who lives and reigns with You
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Who restore human nature
to yet greater dignity than at its beginnings,
look upon the amazing mystery
of Your loving kindness,
and in those You have chosen to make new
through the wonder of rebirth
may You preserve the gifts
of Your enduring grace and blessing.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,
Who lives and reigns with You
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Lord is risen! Alleluia!
He is risen, indeed! Alleluia!
He is risen, indeed! Alleluia!
