Modern Christianity often promises “your best life now.” But the saints teach something radically different.

In this powerful reflection, we hear the wisdom of St. John Climacus, author of the Ladder of Divine Ascent, one of the most influential spiritual works in all of Christianity. Rather than focusing on earthly success or comfort, St. John calls us to something far greater: the ascent to the Kingdom of Heaven.

During the holy season of Great Lent, the Church invites us to climb this spiritual ladder through fasting, repentance, prayer, and vigilance over our senses. The Christian life is not about maximizing worldly prosperity, but about transformation, theosis, and eternal salvation.

Even when we fall, the saints remind us:
“Ascend, ascend, O brothers… even if you fall every day, rise again.”

This sermon explores:

• Why modern “self-help Christianity” misses the point
• The true meaning of renouncing the world
• The spiritual purpose of fasting and ascetic discipline
• The wisdom of St. John Climacus and the Ladder of Divine Ascent
• Why Lent is about ascending toward the Resurrection

Let this message strengthen you in the final weeks of Lent as we prepare for the glorious Resurrection of Christ.

To Him be glory, honor, and praise now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

00:00 Christ Is Among Us
00:18 Discovering Christian Books in Chapters
00:52 The Problem With “Self-Help Christianity”
01:14 “Your Best Life Now” vs the Gospel
01:48 God Desires Good Things for Us — But Not as the End
02:26 The True Goal: The Kingdom of Heaven
02:47 Joyful Sorrow in the Christian Life
02:57 Step One of the Ladder: Renunciation of the World
03:19 What Binds Us to This World
03:34 The Wisdom of St. John Climacus
03:59 The Ladder of Divine Ascent Explained
04:25 A Guide for Monks — and for Us
04:39 Ascetic Practices During Lent
04:48 The Struggle of Fasting
05:07 Why We Discipline the Body and Tongue
05:25 Striving for the Heavenly Kingdom
05:41 “Ascend, Ascend, O Brothers”
06:06 Falling Into Sin During Lent
06:19 Do Not Be Discouraged
06:28 Ascend Toward the Resurrection
06:40 Final Blessing

For more please visit https://www.youtube.com/@steliasbrampton & say 3 Hail Marys for the priest

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