Black Orthodox Cross White Background | Behold, the Tree of the Cross revered by all, now draweth near | Orthodox Hardcover JournalTruly this symbol is thought despicable, but it is so in the world's reckoning, and among men; in heaven and among the faithful it is the highest glory. + St John Chrysostom, Commentary on Galatians +++ Though Thou art exalted far above all honor, O Master, Thou didst deign to be dishonored, enduring a violent death upon the Tree, that when Thou didst die in the flesh, O Almighty, through it the race of mankind might embrace immortality and receive

hear the word of the Lord

we look not at the things which are seen

will not be saved O Lord

the devil pursued you

Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul

but by none of these are the devils scared

He asked Mary

Let us hear the holy Gospel

The sting of death is sin

as quoted by St

- 1 Kingdoms (1 Samuel) 16:1

- Akathist to the Mother of God