Our next Orthodox Influencer is written by Sherry Mohr: 

Even the most devout still have something to learn. After contemplating the holiness of those living in the world, the revered monastic St. Macarius of Egypt was once brought by the Holy Spirit from the desert of Shiheet (Scetis) to the coastal city of Alexandria to observe the righteousness of two women. Upon meeting them, St. Macarius asked about their lives, curious why the Lord had directed him to their home. These women, sisters by marriage, lived together in a communal household. After marrying, they decided to dedicate their lives to Christ as monastics, but their husbands prohibited them from pursuing this calling. Undeterred, they consecrated their hearts through fasting and prayer, living a monasticism within their daily lives.

Fascinated by their dedication, St. Macarius listened as they shared their story. They stated that they cared for each other's children as if they were their own. They added, “We live together in unity, follow the same purpose, and our husbands are shepherds. We are poor, with only our daily bread, and share whatever is left with the poor and needy.”

The lesson is clear: holiness is not exclusive to monastics. As heirs to the Kingdom of Heaven, God’s grace is available to all who seek Him and desire salvation. That day, St. Macarius the Great praised the Lord, saying: “In truth, the Lord seeks neither virgins nor married women, and neither monks nor laymen, but values a person’s free intent, accepting it as the deed itself.” 

These women exemplify how a life lived for Christ takes many shapes, sizes, and forms. It reveals that consecration begins in the heart, providing the Lord a place to rest and dwell. The daily interactions of living side-by-side with other imperfect humans - whether they be children, spouses, parents, roommates, or other family members - can be either the ingredients for irritations and conflict, or the ingredients for sainthood. These influencers not only lived in communion with Christ but also in communion with each other and those around them. They served as Christ served, pouring out the love in their hearts as He did. 

The witness of these two women changed St. Marcarius’ perspective about holiness and the road to Christ. I can imagine it opened his heart in new ways to those who came seeking his wisdom and reshaped his understanding of God’s immense love. 

Holiness isn’t exclusive to the desert; it can take root within each one of us, illuminating Christ to all those we encounter.