Elder Ephraim of Philotheou: We must have love for all the departed

 We all have relatives who have departed from this life. The pain we feel for our loved ones must expand to encompass all the souls of the other world. Not only are there saints in Heaven, but there are also people in Hell. These people are also our brothers; they are souls from whom Christ was crucified. It is an invaluable act of charity to pray for these people. If possible, we should she one tear for them every day. Their pain, misfortune, agony, hopelessness, and despair must become our own pain and concern. We should think, "What will become of these people? Will they remain like this in Hell eternally?"

+Elder Ephraim of Philotheou, from The Art of Salvation, Homily 12, Pain, Sorrow, and Love

Matthew the Poor: Discerning a calling to serve God

It is vital that the person whom the Lord calls [to Christian service] be inspired by feelings of compassion, mercy, and sympathy for the weak and downtrodden.

Therefore, a calling to serve is confirmed by the presence of a heart filled with love and faithfulness toward God on the one hand, and compassion and sympathy toward others on the other. When these signs are found, a person can be sure that he is called by God to serve Him. 

The call of God is not accompanied by voices or dreams, but rather by the gift of the necessary spiritual qualities for Christian service. These spiritual gifts are usually small to begin with, but they grow with consistent practice and prayer.

+Matthew the Poor, from If You Love Me, Serving Christ and the Church in Spirit and in Truth, Chapter 2, Qualities of the Christian Servant