Sunday of the Last Judgement (Meatfare Sunday) (8 February 2026):
On the past two Sundays of this pre-Lenten period, the focus was on God’s patience and compassion, highlighting His willingness to accept sinners who return to Him. On this third Sunday, we are reminded of an important truth: while no one is more patient and merciful than God, even He does not forgive those who do not repent. This conveys the message of Lent to us: to turn back while there is still time and to repent before the end arrives. This Sunday emphasizes the eschatological aspect of Lent: the Great Fast serves as preparation for the Second Coming of the Savior and the eternal Passover in the Age to Come, a theme echoed in the first three days of Holy Week. However, judgment is not solely a future event. Each day and hour, by hardening our hearts towards others and neglecting opportunities to help, we are already passing judgment on ourselves.
When Christ comes to judge us, what criteria will He use? The parable of the Last Judgment indicates that love is the standard—not just a general concern for justice or the anonymous “poor,” but tangible and personal love for the individuals we encounter in our daily lives. Christian love represents the challenge of recognizing Christ in another person, whoever they may be, and whom God has placed in our lives, even if only briefly. This interaction is not merely an opportunity for a “good deed” or philanthropy, but rather the beginning of an eternal companionship in God.
The parable of the Last Judgment centers on Christian love. While not everyone is called to serve “humanity” as a whole, each of us has received Christ’s love. Ultimately, every person requires this personal love—the acknowledgment of their unique soul, which reflects the beauty of creation in an individual way. In Eastern Christianity, “repent” translates from the Greek “metanoia,” meaning a profound change of mind and heart. It goes beyond mere regret for sins, it involves deep sorrow for offending God and others, coupled with a decisive turn, a transformation that reorients one’s entire life towards Jesus’ two commandments of love of God and love of neighbor.
Peace and Grace, Tim
