Jesus Christ did not promise us an easy time nor even a harmonious one. But He promised us a joy that no man could take from us. He promised us ultimate victory and sure place in His Kingdom. He promised us His companionship,

“Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world” (Matthew 28:20). That His companionship is worth more than all else, those who have experienced it know for a fact – it is the pearl without price for the possession of which a man might well sell off all that he has.

As we stand on the brink of this new year, which seems to be filled with foreboding, let us face up to whatever it may bring in a truly Christian frame of mind. That is to say, with quietude and confidence, because we trust God with all our joys and sorrows. Putting His will first, we know we have nothing to fear, even if we “walk through the valley of the shadow of death” (Psalm 23:4) for if the Lord is with us, whom shall we fear?

Let us start the new year with a cry of joy, praise and thanksgiving “Praise God in His sanctuary, praise Him in the firmament of His power… Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord” (Psalm 150:1-6)

Princess Ileana (Mother Alexandra) December 12, 1956

“Life Transfigured” A Journal of Orthodox Nuns

volume 50 #3