Black Orthodox Cross on White Background | Jesus for the joy set before Him endured the Cross | Orthodox Christian Spiral NotebookTruly this symbol is thought despicable, but it is so in the world's reckoning, and among men; in heaven and among the faithful it is the highest glory. + St John Chrysostom, Commentary on Galatians +++ Though Thou art exalted far above all honor, O Master, Thou didst deign to be dishonored, enduring a violent death upon the Tree, that when Thou didst die in the flesh, O Almighty, through it the race of mankind might embrace immortality and receive

Turn Thy face away from my sins

He was oppressed and He was afflicted

Jesus said to them

- "Axion Estin" Prayer to the Theotokos

it is because he uses the body's humours to befog the intellect with the delight of mindless pleasures

for it was a removal of punishment

thou didst cry aloud

Christ below me

Worthy of one who calls God Father

Mary together with the other women spent the following day at rest

and it shall be done unto you

O King who lovest mankind