The foregoing two parables -- especially that of
the Prodigal Son -- have presented to us God's extreme goodness and love for
man. But lest certain persons, putting their confidence in this alone, live
carelessly, squandering upon sin the time given them to work out their
salvation, and death suddenly snatch them away, the most divine Fathers have
appointed this day's feast commemorating Christ's impartial Second Coming,
through which we bring to mind that God is not only the Friend of man, but also
the most righteous Judge, Who recompenses to each according to his deeds.
It is the aim of the holy Fathers, through
bringing to mind that fearful day, to rouse us from the slumber of carelessness
unto the work of virtue, and to move us to love and compassion for our
brethren. Besides this, even as on the coming Sunday of Cheese-fare we
commemorate Adam's exile from the Paradise of delight -- which exile is the
beginning of life as we know it now -- it is clear that today's is reckoned the
last of all feasts, because on the last day of judgment, truly, everything of
this world will come to an end.
All foods, except meat and meat products, are
allowed during the week that follows this Sunday.
St. Basil the Great Greek Orthodox Church
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