H.H. Pope Tawadros II delivered his weekly Wednesday meeting sermon this evening from the Church of Virgin Mary and Saint Bishoy at St. Mark’s Cathedral in Abbassia. The sermon was broadcast through Christian satellite channels and via the online C.O.C. channel affiliated with the Church Media Center.
His Holiness prayed Vespers with the participation of Their Graces Bishop Angelos (General Bishop of the Churches of Northern Shoubra), Bishop Eklemandos (General Bishop of the Churches of Almaza, Madinat Al-Amal, and East Nasr City) and Bishop Sawirus (Bishop and Abbot of the Monasteries of Saint Thomas the Hermit in Sohag and El-Khattatba, and Saint Victor (Mar Boctor) in El-Khattatba). Also present were Hegumen Sergius Sergius (General Deputy of the Patriarchate in Cairo), together with the priests of the church and a number of priests and monks.
Hegumen Rewis Oweida, one of the church’s priests, delivered a welcoming address expressing love and appreciation for His Holiness. The deacons’ choir also chanted several hymns and praises in honor of Saint Mark the Apostle.
Pope Tawadros continued his series entitled: “Spiritual Laws for Life,” speaking today on: The Law of Love. He directed his message particularly to male and female servants of the Church in conjunction with the celebration of the return of the relics of Saint Mark the Apostle, who represents the first model of Christian service in the land of Egypt.
His Holiness read from the twentieth chapter of the Gospel according to Saint Matthew, verses 25–28, drawing special attention to the verse: “Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26)
He noted that the Lord Christ corrected false concepts concerning greatness in ministry. True greatness is not found in authority, superiority over others, or domination—the standards of the world. Nor is it measured by what a person receives, but by what he offers. Pope Tawadros further explained that, in the eyes of Christ and His Kingdom, greatness in service is characterized by humility and self-giving. Saint John Chrysostom said: “Christ did not forbid the desire for greatness; rather, He changed the path that leads to it.”
Thus, true greatness is found in a servant who is humble and loving, according to the Lord’s example: “For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.” (John 13:15)
His Holiness then explained how Saint Mark the Apostle became the first model of Christian service in Egypt, referring to the prophecy: “In that day there will be an altar to the Lord in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar to the Lord at its border.”
(Isaiah 19:19)
He pointed out that Saint Mark’s motivation for coming to Egypt was the power of love and faith that filled his heart on the Day of Pentecost:“Because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” (Romans 5:5)
Therefore, as long as the servant’s heart is filled with the love of God, he will labor, bear fruit, and be considered great in the sight of Christ. Saint Mark began his ministry with Anianus, keeping his eyes fixed on people and on the future, carrying his responsibility with great love until he received the crown of martyrdom in the year 68 A.D.
Pope Tawadros further explained that it is the Holy Spirit who works within the servant and implants the power of love that motivates and sustains ministry. He then outlined several expressions of the power of love that every servant needs:
- Prayer
Through bowed knees, flowing tears, uplifted hands, and heartfelt prayer:“Out of the depths I have cried to You, O Lord.”
(Psalm 130:1) - Witness
That the servant may become a true witness to Christ—in the workplace, at home, and in the church—through love and humility. - Speech
Serving as an example through words of encouragement, constructive dialogue, and edifying speech. - Study and Meditation
Continual study and meditation on the Holy Scriptures: “And in His law he meditates day and night.” (Psalm 1:2) - Wise Stewardship
Exercising prudent and thoughtful leadership in ministry through calm and discerning judgment.
- Sacrificial Giving
Through labor, diligence, and self-sacrifice in service: “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28)
- Rejection of Sin
Beginning with even the smallest sins: “The little foxes that spoil the vines” (Song of Solomon 2:15), until the servant becomes inwardly pure and radiant before Christ.
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