Ode 4. Irmos

Of the Forerunner. The same Irmos.

Foreseeing in Spirit, you proclaimed the incarnation of the Word, prophet Avvakoum, as you cried, ‘When the years draw near you will be recognised; when the moment comes you will be revealed’; glory to your power, O Lord!

The wealth you gave me I have squandered wickedly, committing monstrous deeds and now am naked, clothed in the works of dishonour. And so I cry to you, ‘Make me radiant with robes, goading me to repentance by divine grace’. ****

I became unconscious, and have fallen terribly, and I lie upon the ground, incurably sick. Raise me, O Christ who raise the fallen, and establish my heart on the rock of repentance. ****

Of the Martyrs

Imitating Christ, who was raised upon a Cross, they were acquainted with blows, yet the Champions rejoiced, and having dispelled torrents of atheism with the showers of their blood, they are a source of streams of healing. ****

The godly Athletes sailed undrenched through the fierce and bitter storm of torments. Steered by saving hope, hearts filled with gladness, they were brought to anchor at the harbours on high. ****

The hosts of Angels were amazed when they saw how the One who cannot be seen was seen in our form from you, Virgin Mother of God. Implore him to count worthy of salvation all those who faithfully glorify you.

With bodily nakedness you wove yourself a cloak of salvation, Baptist of the Lord. Clothe me, stripped bare of every good work, I beg, with a garment of justice and gladness. ****

Forerunner, who plunged in the streams of Jordan a torrent of delight, Jesus the giver of life, rain on me too, who am wasted away by the drought of pleasures, one drop of salvation, that as is fitting I may glorify you. ****

It is not an Angel, not an envoy that saved us, but the Lord himself, when he came on earth and whose straight ways you had prepared, blest Saint. Implore him now to show me the path that leads to the Kingdom. ****

You were revealed as sanctified Temple of the God who dwelt in you beyond understanding, O Virgin. Implore him to cleanse us from the stain of sins, that we may become known as house and dwelling place of the Spirit. ****