Holy and Great Monday. The cursing of the fig tree. Patriarchate of Pec. 14th c. Behold! The bridegroom approaches in the middle of the night, and blessed is that servant whom He shall find watching; but unworthy he whom He shall find heedless. Beware, therefore, O my soul. Be not overcome with sleep, lest thou be given over to death and shut outside the kingdom. But arise and cry: Holy, holy, holy art Thou, O God! Through the Theotokos have mercy on us!
Jacob lamented the loss of Joseph, but his noble son was seated on a chariot and honored as a king. For he was not enslaved to the pleasures of the Egyptian woman, but he was glorified by God, Who sees the hearts of men and bestows on them a crown incorruptible.