O the depth of the riches of the wisdom and of the knowledge of God! How incomprehensible are his judgments, and how unsearchable his ways! (Romans 11:33)
"...He Who a little before had healed with His spittle the eyes of the blind man was spat upon by those who insulted Him.
He was scourged in Whose Name and by Whose servants the devil and his angels are scourged.
He Who crowns the martyrs with unfading garlands was Himself crowned with thorns.
They struck Him on the face with the palms of their hands Who gives the palm of victory to those who endure to the end.
He Who clothes others with the garment of everlasting life was stripped of His earthly garments.
They gave Him gall Who gives us the food of heaven.
He was given vinegar to drink Who has given us the cup of salvation.
He the Just One, the Innocent, nay, more Innocence Itself, He Who in Justice, was reputed among thieves, and Truth Itself was surrounded by false witnesses.
The Judge of all men was placed standing before an earthly judge.
The Word of God was led wordless to be sacrificed."
CALL TO ACTION: Imitate Jesus in His willingness to suffer in silence.
Source: Quote from "The Sunday Sermons of the Great Fathers"; St. Cyprian's sermon -- "On the Advantages of Patience" for the 4th Sunday after Easter, page 349; Henry Regnery Company (copyright 1958); Imprimatur: E. Morrogh Bernard, Vic. Gen. Westmonasterii; Nihil Obstat: Hubertus Richards, S.T.L., L.S.S., Censor Deputatus
Photo by Annie Theby