Everybody wants it
7 August 2022Most people want to gain the kingdom without sweat and effort. They admire the saints and want their honor and gifts, but they don’t want to share in the pains and torments they undergo. Everybody, including harlots, publicans and every other person, wants the kingdom, which is why there are trials and temptations: to show those who really love the Lord and who have justly gained the kingdom of heaven.
Saint Makarios the Egyptian