TAKE HEED (Cor.
X: 1-6; 12)
The Jews did not profit from
the wonders God worked for them in the desert; and we, Christians,
are, likewise, not profiting from the baptism and sharing of the
bread and wine. The Jews "ate manna and drank from
the water,"-- shadows of the Mysteries of the water and
wine. But they proved to be unworthy of those gifts.
God rained wonders on the Jews; the
Jews should have shown signs they were worthy. . .through a reformed
way of life, a life of obedience to His commands. But since
they showed none of these, God did not spare them but destroyed them
with a double vengeance; firstly, they did not enter the land
promised to them and, secondly, they were severely
punished.
This should be an example to
us. The gifts are figures and the punishments are
figures. We should not lust after evil things, otherwise, we
also shall be punished. . .and more severely.
"Avoid lusting for evil things
and idolatry." For lusting easily leads to
idolatry. Others sin due to ignorance; others, from gluttony,
fornication and murmuring.
It is not enough for Christians to
suffer; they must suffer nobly to bear the things that come with all
gladness. To endure calamity with a bad grace is deserving of
punishment.
The above advice is for our
instruction upon whom "the ends of the ages are
come." For the calamities at the end times will be the
worst; we shall suffer great persecutions. And for us who have
received numerous blessings, the punishment shall be more
severe. "Wherefore, let him that thinketh he standeth
take heed, lest he fall."
St. John Chrysostom, "On Cor." (3rd Sunday of Lent,
C)
(10-30-04)
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