The Word for the Day

Afternoon (1846), a painting by George Inness.

Today I want to share one beautiful chapter from the Bible, to comfort everyone who feels lonely or sad. Please do not despair. See the light in the darkness. The light is there even though it would be hidden. You're not alone, because God is everywhere. This world is often so dark and cruel place, but behind the scenes there is such a thing as "Divine providence" (Russian: «Промысл Божий», Finnish: "Jumalan kaitselmus"). It means God's action and intervention in the world, His care for the world. All is under control, and finally everything will go well...

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever."

-Psalm 23

The same chapter in Russian language:

«Господь – Пастырь мой; я ни в чем не буду нуждаться:

Он покоит меня на злачных пажитях и водит меня к водам тихим,

подкрепляет душу мою, направляет меня на стези правды ради имени Своего.

Если я пойду и долиною смертной тени, не убоюсь зла, потому что Ты со мной; Твой жезл и Твой посох – они успокаивают меня.

Ты приготовил предо мною трапезу в виду врагов моих; умастил елеем голову мою; чаша моя преисполнена.

Так, благость и милость да сопровождают меня во все дни жизни моей, и я пребуду в доме Господнем многие дни.»

-Псалом 22

P.S. Finally I add here one peaceful and beautiful Russian Orthodox Christian song named «Господи помилуй», in English: 'Lord, have mercy'. Enjoy and relax. :)

Vladimir Mother of God - the Icon That Saved Moscow

August 26 will be the feast of the Vladimir Mother of God icon, also known as Theotokos of Vladimir (the image above). It is one of the most well-known Orthodox icons, and is presently located in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia. Personally, I am especially interested in this icon and its history.

It is said that 'Vladimir Mother of God' was painted by the Evangelist Luke himself. Anyway, this sacred image is very old (at least one thousand years). In addition, it is so called miracle-working icon. Orthodox Christians in Russia believe that 'Vladimir Mother of God' has saved Moscow many times during the history. The last time was in December 1941, when the Nazis attacked Moscow!

According the OrthodoxWiki, the most solemn celebration of the icon occurs on August 26, the feast established in honor of the Meeting of the Vladimir Icon upon its Transfer from Vladimir to Moscow (in the year 1395).

You can learn more by reading this article (click the blue word). I find these historic true stories very exciting and inspiring. In my forthcoming book will be a chapter named The Mother of God saves Moscow.

Thoughts from the depth of my heart

What I'm thinking today? Especially one person fills my mind and my heart again and again: my dear friend who is ill... I hope that she will be healthy soon. I fervently pray for her every day. I went to the church for her. I wish her quickly recovery and all the best.

My dear, gentle friend: I hope you see these words and they could comfort you somehow. I want you to know, I'm thinking of you tenderly every day, and you mean so much for me. I'm forever thankful to God and you, that you're exist and we are friends.

Because of you, my world is so much more beautiful and rich place. You have taught me a lot about nature, literature, music, religion, the beauty of life... Still you haven't ever been arrogant nor proud, but always so humble and modest person. I really love your pure heart and your endearing attitude.

May I give you these flowers (the photo above). Get well soon, my angel friend! *hugs* ^_^

From Finland with love,

Teisuka

GET WELL SOON, DEAR ANGEL!

One-day trip to Vaasa

Yesterday I made a one-day trip to Vaasa, a city on the west coast of Finland (population: 60,435, founded in 1606). The city was known as Nikolainkaupunki (City of Nikolai) between 1855 and 1917, when Finland was still part of the Russian Empire.

Vaasa is very beautiful and international place, and one of my favorite cities in Finland. There live a lot of foreigners, and my good friend lives there, too. Besides I met my friend, I visited the old Orthodox Christian church, and after that I was swimming in the sea. Such a pleasure for me! ^_^

In the church, I lighted two candles and I prayed for two persons especially: for my dear friend and my big sister... It was really touching and sacred moment. I visited that church last time 30 years ago, when I was still a child.

I also bought a "travel icon" (double icon) from the church.

Pictures tells more than thousand words, so I add here few photos from my little trip.

The Orthodox Christian church of Vaasa, inaugurated in 1866.

 A general view inside of the church.

Me praying in the church.

A sacred "travel icon": the Mother of God and the Son of God.

The beautiful sea shore in Vaasa, the nearby Hietalahti Villa.

Me swimming in the sea (the Gulf of Bothnia aka Pohjanlahti).

Birch alley in Vaasa.

 This Origami (paper crane) is made by my friend from Vaasa.