Today
we remember and give thanks to God for Justinian, Christian Ruler and Confessor
of Christ. Justinian was emperor of the
East from A.D. 527 to 565 when the Roman Empire was in decline. With his
beautiful and capable wife, Theodora, he restored splendor and majesty to the
Byzantine court. During his reign the Empire experienced a renaissance, due in
large part to his ambition, intelligence, and strong religious convictions.
Justinian also attempted to bring unity to a divided church. He was a champion
of orthodox Christianity and sought agreement among the parties in the
Christological controversies of the day who were disputing the relation between
the divine and human natures in the Person of Christ. The Fifth Ecumenical
Council in Constantinople in A.D. 533 was held during his reign and addressed
this dispute. Justinian died in his eighties, not accomplishing his desire for
an empire that was firmly Christian and orthodox.
Collect
of the Day:
Lord God, heavenly Father, through the
governance of Christian leaders such as Emperor Justinian, Your name is freely
confessed in our nation and throughout the world. Grant that we may continue to choose
trustworthy leaders who serve You faithfully in our generation and make wise
decisions that contribute to the general welfare of Your people; through Jesus
Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God,
now and forever.
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