236- Outstanding Miracles

 

St-Takla.org Image: Saint Bakhmios the Great (St. Pachomius) - ancient Coptic icon - 1609 m. (1894) صورة في موقع الأنبا تكلا: القديس الأنبا باخوميوس الكبير (الأنبا باخوم) - أيقونة قبطية أثرية من سنة 1609 للشهداء (1894 م.)

St. Pachomius was well-known for his heavenly visions. The Lord had also endowed him with the gift of working miracles and wonders. Once, some monks approached him asking, “Tell us father, what can we do to acquire the ability of working miracles and wonders?”

He answered with a smile, “This ability will be muddied with pride, therefore do not seek it if you’re in pursuit of a pure and spiritual quest. Rather, it’s better for you to seek the power which would enable you to perform such miracles and wonders.

If you see an idolater, and light for him the way that leads him to God. Thus, you will have revived a dead person.

If you return a heretic back to the faith, you will have opened the eyes of a blind person.

If you convert a miser into a generous person, you will have healed a withered hand.

If you convert a lazy person into a motivated one, you will have healed an invalid.

If you change a person’s anger to kindness, you will have exorcised the devil.

Can anyone possibly hope for anything greater than this?”

Thus, St. Pachomius’ heart was not tied to working miracles but to the salvation of people and to their enjoyment of the eternal glory.

→ English translation of the story here at St-Takla.org: عجائب فائقة.

Grant me the power and proof of the Spirit,

That I may work through You for the salvation of my brethren.

I have no request but this: to see all enjoying You, O the Source of my life.

What shall I offer You?

The salvation of one soul, in Your eyes, is better than all that the world has to offer.

He Sets the Example

Short Stories (Stories for the Youth) Books by Father Tadros Yacoub Malaty

My Great Achievements in One Line