In this sermon, we reflect on the image of the Ladder of Divine Ascent and what it teaches about the Orthodox Christian life. Why does following Christ sometimes feel harder, especially during Great Lent?

The Orthodox Church teaches that the spiritual life is a steady climb toward Christ. Drawing from the teaching of St. John Climacus, this sermon explains how growth in faith often brings increased struggle. As we take steps toward God through prayer, fasting, and repentance, we also face stronger temptations and distractions.

This sermon also addresses why many people experience Lent as spiritually difficult. When we become more focused on Christ, we often feel the weight of spiritual warfare more clearly. This is not a sign of failure, but a sign that we are engaged in the real work of the spiritual life.

We are reminded to st ...