April 26th, 2026: It’s Not About Me, It’s About Christ

The Myrrh-Bearing Women and the Life of the Church

The Myrrh-bearing women show us what it means to live as part of the Church, not as individuals seeking attention, but as members of one body. Orthodox Christians believe the Church is built together through faith, humility, and love, not by status or recognition. The Orthodox Church teaches that every person has a role in salvation, and that no act of faithfulness is small in the eyes of God.

In a world that constantly tells us to focus on ourselves, the Gospel reveals something very different. It calls us into a life where “me” becomes “we,” where our identity is found not in isolation, but in communion. This is at the heart of Orthodox Christianity and is seen clearly in the lives of the Myrrh-bearing women.

When we look at the story of the Myrrh-bearing women, we see something quiet but powerful. These were not the apostles preaching in the streets or leading large groups of people. They were faithful, steady, and present. They followed Christ even when others ran away, and they came to the tomb not for recognition, but out of love.

Orthodox Christians believe that their example teaches us how the Church truly lives and grows. It is not built by one person or a small group of leaders, but by the faithfulness of everyone. The Church is not a stage for individuals, but a living body made up of many members, each with their own role.

The Church Is Built Together

In the New Testament, Saint Paul speaks of the Church as the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). This image is not symbolic in a shallow way. It reveals something real about how the Church functions. Just as a body needs every part to be healthy, the Church depends on each person’s faithfulness.

Some roles are more visible than others. Priests preach, serve the sacraments, and lead the community. But the Church does not exist because of the priest alone. It exists because of the prayers, sacrifices, and quiet service of everyone who belongs to it.

This is where the Myrrh-bearing women become so important. They remind us that the life of the Church is not about recognition. It is about faithfulness. While the apostles fled in fear, these women remained close, showing courage and love even in uncertainty.

From “Me” to “We” in Orthodox Christianity

Our culture often teaches us to focus on ourselves. We are told to pursue what makes us happy, to prioritize our own desires, and to shape life around personal fulfillment. This mindset creates a “me-centered” way of living.

The Orthodox Church teaches something very different. It calls us into a “we-centered” life. This does not mean losing who we are, but finding our true identity within the Body of Christ. Salvation is not something we work out alone. It is something we live together.

Why does the Orthodox Church emphasize community?

Because salvation is not individualistic. From the beginning, God calls people into communion. The Church is where we learn to love, forgive, serve, and grow together. This is how we are healed from the isolation of sin.

What do the Myrrh-bearing women teach about faith?

They show us that faith is not about being seen or praised. It is about showing up, even when things are uncertain or difficult. Their love for Christ did not depend on circumstances. It remained steady even in fear and confusion.

Why is humility important in the spiritual life?

Humility allows us to see that we are not the center of everything. It frees us from pride and helps us serve others. The Myrrh-bearing women did not seek recognition, yet they were the first to witness the Resurrection.

How should Christians respond to stress and distractions?

The Orthodox Church teaches us to turn toward prayer, worship, and the life of the Church. Instead of being consumed by anxiety, we are called to place our attention on God. This brings peace even when circumstances are difficult.

What does it mean to be part of the Body of Christ?

It means that our lives are connected. Our actions affect one another. When we pray, serve, and grow in faith, we strengthen the whole Church. No one is unnecessary, and no role is meaningless.

We also see in the Gospel that even the apostles struggled. At the moment of Christ’s suffering, many of them fled. Fear overcame them. Yet this was not the end of their story.

When they returned to Him, everything changed. They no longer lived for themselves. They lived to proclaim the truth, even at great cost. Many of them gave their lives as martyrs because their focus had shifted completely.

This transformation is at the heart of the Christian life. It is not about becoming perfect instantly. It is about turning back to God again and again, allowing Him to reshape our hearts.

Orthodox Christians believe that this transformation happens through the life of the Church. Through prayer, the Divine Liturgy, fasting, and repentance, we begin to let go of the “me-centered” life. We begin to live for something greater.

In practical terms, this means learning to step away from the noise of the world. Social media, politics, and daily stress can easily consume our attention. When that happens, we lose sight of what truly matters.

The Church calls us back to focus. When we feel overwhelmed, we are reminded to pray. When we feel anger toward others, we are called to pray for them. When we feel lost, we return to the services and the rhythm of the Church.

This is not an escape from reality. It is a return to what is real. The Kingdom of Heaven is not something distant. It is something we begin to experience even now through the life of the Church.

The Myrrh-bearing women lived this reality. They did not let fear or confusion stop them. They remained faithful, and because of that, they became witnesses to something greater than themselves.

In the same way, we are called to remain faithful in our own lives. Whether our role is visible or hidden does not matter. What matters is that we are part of the Body, living and growing together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the Myrrh-bearing women?

They are the women who followed Christ, remained at His crucifixion, and came to anoint His body at the tomb. They are honored for their faithfulness and courage.

Why are they important in Orthodox Christianity?

They show that faithfulness and love are more important than recognition or position. Their example teaches how every person contributes to the life of the Church.

Does everyone have a role in the Church?

Yes. Orthodox Christians believe every member of the Church has a role to play. Each person’s faith and service strengthen the whole body.

How can I grow spiritually in the Orthodox Church?

By participating in the life of the Church through prayer, attending services, and practicing repentance. Growth comes through consistent faithfulness.

What should I do when I feel overwhelmed by life?

Turn toward prayer and the life of the Church. Focus on God rather than the noise of the world, and peace will begin to take root in your heart.