The Value of Suffering ☦⛪ Sermon - Orthodox Church, Brisbane

As we enter the darkest part of Holy Week, we remember that Jesus suffered willingly. Though He had the power to end His pain with a thought or summon legions of angels, He chose instead to endure out of love for us.

This reveals the true meaning of power: having it, but choosing not to use it. Christ’s suffering was entirely voluntary. The same Divine Word (Logos) who created the universe and walked through history is the one who was spat on, struck, and mocked; and yet responded with patience, mercy, and love.

We, too, suffer in life. We ask God, “Why?” and wonder if He cares. But the answer is found in how He suffered. He responded to hatred with silence and to cruelty with love. This is how we are called to endure our own trials.

True holiness is not found in lashing out, but in reflecting Christ; especially when it's hardest. Let us bear our struggles with the same patience and love, becoming true images of God in the world.

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Preacher: Priest Stephen David
Location: Saint John of Kronstadt Academy, Mount Gravatt
Date: 17 April 2025
Occasion: Matins of the Crucifixion with the Twelve Passion Gospels

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