On Self-Denial and Love

From the Gerontikon of Sinai:

Two foreign monks visited a certain Elder on a fasting day. He received them gladly and, observing the rule of hospitality, ate with them at the table. Then he explained to them that fasting indeed has its reward, but the one who breaks it for the sake of his guests receives two rewards: one because he denies his own will, and another because, by offering rest to his brothers, he fulfills the commandment of love.

 

Greek source: https://orthodox-voice.blogspot.com/2025/01/blog-post_18.html