Faithfulness in Little Things
Main Idea
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III addresses the subject of faithfulness in little things, explaining that a person can grow in spiritual life by being faithful in simple matters that are within their abilities. He explains that the Christian life aims at spiritual perfection, but reaching this perfection requires continuous struggle and gradual growth. He emphasizes that God asks people to use faithfully the abilities they possess rather than becoming preoccupied with what they cannot attain.
Spiritual Message
The central message is that faithfulness in little things prepares a person to receive greater things through God’s grace. A person is called to be faithful in thoughts, words, actions, and prayers, according to what they are able to do. The Pope explains that a person who struggles to control their thoughts can begin by controlling their tongue and refraining from judging others, and that someone who finds it difficult to overcome anger can prevent that anger from turning into hurtful words or wrongful actions. He also explains that loving one’s neighbor is a practical step that helps a person progress toward the commandment to love their enemies.
Educational Lesson
The teaching explains that spiritual growth begins with faithfully practicing simple things, after which a person gradually progresses with God’s help. In prayer, a person can begin with the prayers of the Agpeya that they are able to offer, then gradually grow until prayer becomes an established part of their life. In fasting, a person begins by controlling food and drink, while striving to abstain from sin and evil. Likewise, faithfulness in daily conduct, keeping the Lord’s Day holy, and practicing acts of love and charity help a person progress in spiritual life. The Pope emphasizes that the present life is a brief opportunity for struggle and faithfulness, while eternal life represents a great gift that God promises to the faithful.
Practical Application
The teaching calls every person to begin with what they can do today, without despairing because of their weakness or inability to attain perfection. A person should control their tongue, protect the feelings of others, struggle against anger, remain committed to prayer according to their ability, and be faithful in their time, service, and offerings. They should also keep the Lord’s Day holy and use their abilities for good rather than waiting for greater abilities before beginning to act. The conclusion is that a person is responsible for being faithful in the matters within their reach, while asking God to raise them to higher spiritual levels, trusting that grace will help them when they struggle faithfully.
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