Talk 48: Blessed Are the Merciful, For They Shall Obtain Mercy!

Orthodox Christians who read the Holy Bible will have read Christ’s words: “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.” Regarding these words, the Holy Fathers clearly teach that at the Last Judgment only those who show mercy will obtain mercy. This is why the saints put great effort into fleeing from the soul-destroying passion of mercilessness by practising works of mercy. Hence, it is important for all who desire salvation to know exactly what works of mercy are.

In this talk, Father Kosmas uses the writings of various saints to explain how almsgiving is not the only way to be merciful. Works of mercy can be broken up into two groups: physical and spiritual. A significant part of the talk is dedicated to providing many practical examples of works of mercy. By the end of the talk we will see that, no matter what spiritual stru ...