The Place of Others in Our Lives

The lecture explains that the true spiritual person does not make himself the center of his life, but places others at the center of his concern and lives with the spirit of love, service, and self-giving. His Holiness Pope Shenouda III emphasizes that selfishness distances a person from the image of God, while caring for others leads him to true spiritual life.

The lecture presents many biblical and spiritual examples, such as John the Baptist, Elijah the Prophet, Saint Anthony, and the angels, all of whom lived for serving others despite their deep spiritual lives.

It also confirms that the Lord Jesus Christ is the perfect example of practical love, for He came to serve and to give Himself for many, and even while on the Cross He was thinking about the salvation of others and asking forgiveness for them.

The lecture explains that love is not merely feelings or words, but practical action shown through giving, service, endurance, forgiveness, and sacrifice, and that the spiritual person seeks the comfort of others more than his own comfort.

It also highlights that the Church teaches her children to care for everyone through the communal prayers, in which she prays for all people, planting the spirit of fellowship, love, and freedom from isolation.

The lecture calls every person to examine himself with a clear question: What is the place of others in my life? Do I live for myself or for serving others?

In conclusion, it affirms that a person draws closer to the image of God whenever he forgets himself, fills his heart with love for others, and lives a life of self-giving, service, and practical love.

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