Only One Trial

"There is only one thing 
to be feared...
only one trial, and that is sin...
All the rest is beside the point.
Whether you talk of plots, feuds, betrayals, slanders, abuses, accusations, confiscations of property... or universal war. 
Whatever they may be, 
they are fugitive 
and they will perish. 
They touch the mortal body, 
but wreak no harm 
on the watchful soul."

St. John Chrysostom








Painting: W. Paxton, in US public domain due to age

That the Good May Shine the Brighter

"This is why God has left the wicked in the world: so that the good may shine the brighter.

Do you see how great the gain is?  But the gain is not owing to the wicked, but to the courage of the good. Trees tossed about by contrary winds grow stronger. And the wicked gain too, by mixing with the good. They feel confused; they are ashamed; they blush in the presence of the good.  Even if they do not keep from evil, nevertheless they dare what they dare in secret. This is no small thing, not to have sins publicly committed.

The life of the good becomes the accuser of their wickedness. 'It hurts even to see him,' they say of the righteous man. It is no small amendment to be tormented by his presence."

St. John Chysostom

Painting: Adolphe Alexandre Dillens, Capture of Joan of Arc