On the third Sunday of Annunciations in the preparation for Holy Nativity, Mary visits Elizabeth and the Holy Spirit speaks. How honorable and blessed are these women. Fr John Brian brings up the power of women using a verse from the appointed reading of Proverbs:
"A wise woman builds her house; but the foolish tears it down with her own hands." (14:1)
Fr John Brian further discusses how this occasion is filled with spiritual health, using the Signs of Spiritual Health attributed to Howard Clinebell, a professor of pastoral counseling. Here are the signs.
You are spiritually healthy when:
1. You feel a sense of belonging
2. You are open to awe and wonder
3. You live with an attitude of hope
4. You have the ability to trust
5. You are able to show appreciation
6. You have a sense of purpose in your life
7. You have a sense of humor
This sermon lesson uses the readings and services appointed from the Malankara Syrian lectionary and was given on Sunday, November 28, 2010 by Fr. John Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.
"We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency may be of the power of God and not of us." 2 Corinthians 4:7.
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