Part 2 Chapter 3: One Should Bear the Cross Graciously

[尼古拉前执事]

Part 2 Chapter 3: One Should Bear the Cross Graciously and not be Ashamed of It

[Reader Benjamin]

Stavrophila: I also would gladly carry the cross and all kinds of disgrace for my Lord, as did many martyrs; but I am troubled that I will be looked upon by all as an apparent sinner; they will think the bearing of this cross was imposed on me for my many transgressions. ...

Oh how often I complain that my cross is being misinterpreted by on lookers as a result of sin. Then I must remember that I am deserving of every kind of punishment for my many transgressions and that what I am enduring is nothing compared to what I deserve.