First Sunday After Pentecost

Sunday, May 31, 2026

“Are any among you suffering? They should pray. Are any cheerful? They should sing songs of praise”
(James 5:13)

With these beautiful words, Holy Scripture reminds us that every moment of a person's life must be connected to God. When a person is in sorrow, they need prayer, because prayer becomes comfort, strength, and hope. But it is equally important not to forget God in moments of joy. The Holy Apostle James says: "Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise," meaning that joy too must become glorification and thanksgiving to God.

Today, many people in the world seek happiness, but they often seek it only in external things — in possessions, success, or pleasures. Yet that kind of joy is often short-lived and cannot fill a person's heart. True joy is born when a person's heart is at peace with God.

Christian joy is not simply a smile or a good mood. It is an inner light that does not go out even in the midst of difficulties. A person may have problems, pain, and trials, but if the presence of God lives in their heart, they do not lose hope. It is that joy which gives the strength to carry on, to love, and not to despair.

Many times people learn to pray only in moments of pain, but forget to be grateful in moments of joy. Yet a heart filled with gratitude is always more peaceful and blessed. When we learn to glorify God even for small joys, our soul begins to fill with light.

God desires that our hearts not remain burdened and in darkness. He wishes us to live in faith, peace, and holy joy. A joyful heart can sometimes become a comfort to others as well, for a radiant soul spreads light around it. Therefore, when we are sad — let us pray, and when we are joyful — let us glorify the Lord with thanksgiving. And may the holy joy that comes from the presence of God never be extinguished in our hearts.

Deacon MIKAYEL MARGARYAN