How to Benefit from the Holy Liturgy - Pope Kirillos Scientific Family

"Because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an
example that you should follow His steps" (1 Peter 2:21).
By the cross He was the Light of the world, attracting all to
Him as He said, "And I, being lifted up from the earth, will
draw all people to Myself" (John 12:32). And from the
cross He descended to Hades and saved those who were
sitting in the darkness and shadow of death, "Who alone has
immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light" (1 Timothy
6:16). Despite this, He called us saying, "You are the light
of the world" (Matthew 5:14). Christ ascended the
lighthouse of the cross, and so attracted all people from
darkness to His light, and here He resembles the believer
who puts the light on a lamp stand to give light to all who
are in the house.
The contemplations of the Sixth Hour prayer focus on our
crucified Lord saying:
"Break the bonds of our sins Lord Jesus and save us"
"O Lord may all our pains be ended through Your life
giving and healing sufferings. May our minds be saved from
foolishness and worldly desires to the remembrance of Your
heavenly laws."
This is a very deep request! Take it as practice if evil
thoughts attack you, or any foolish desire becomes
burdensome for you. Look to the cross and Christ and
meditate on His crucifixion which He endured for us; the
crown of thorns placed on His holy head, His blood which
ran from His wounds, and His side which was pierced.
Remember His wounds and proclaim to the Lord, "End my
pains by Your healing and life giving sufferings", and you
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