教牧守則·對話錄與書信 第 647 章

Gregory to Libertinus the former praetor. We are not unaware how great is the distress of this world that presses upon you. But because for those set in the utmost tribulation the only consolation is the mercy of the Creator, place your hope in Him, and turn to Him with your whole mind—He who both justly permits whom He wills to be afflicted, and mercifully will deliver him that trusts in Him. To Him therefore give thanks, and patiently bear whatever has been brought upon you. For it belongs to an upright mind not only to bless God in prosperity, but also to praise Him in adversity. In these things therefore which you suffer, let no murmuring against God creep into your heart, for it is unknown to what end our Creator may work this.

For perhaps, my magnificent one, when set in prosperity you offended Him in some way, and He wishes to purge you through a bitterness that is nonetheless clement. And therefore, let neither temporal affliction break you, nor loss of goods torment you; for if, giving thanks in adversity, you render God favorable to you by your patience, both the things that are lost are restored to you multiplied, and above these, eternal joys are bestowed.

But I beg that you do not think it an affront that we have written, through Romanus the defensor, that twenty garments be provided for your servants; for concerning the goods of the blessed Apostle Peter, however small the things offered may be, they are to be received always as a great blessing, since it will avail both to bestow greater things upon you here, and to procure for you eternal benefits before Almighty God. In the month of June, third indiction.