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August 2026

Because we confuse temporary shelter with our true Homeland. As long as the traveler remembers where he is going, the collapse of a roadside inn is a tragedy – but not the end. He will find another place to spend the night. But the man who has nailed his bed to the floor and convinced himself there is nowhere else to go really does lose everything when the roof comes crashing down.

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For · the Heavenly City
Union of Orthodox Journalists (SPZH) · Aug 15 · View source

Twice over. The person who remembers his true Homeland takes better care of the roadside inn than the one who mistakes it for his final home. Longing for the Heavenly City neither abolishes nor destroys anything on which earthly life depends. We obey human ordinances in pursuit of peace on earth – provided they do not conflict with our faith.

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For · human ordinances
Union of Orthodox Journalists (SPZH) · Aug 15 · View source

There – now you see the difference. To enjoy something means to become attached to it in love as though it were an ultimate good. To use something means gratefully accepting what has been given to help you reach your final destination. If we wish to return to our Heavenly Homeland, where alone we can truly be happy, we must use this world rather than make it our ultimate delight.

Direct quote
For · the Heavenly City
Union of Orthodox Journalists (SPZH) · Aug 15 · View source