Chrysostom
Beloved of All
You have done well to bring your mother’s suffering before the Lord, for He is the physician of both soul and body. But do not be disturbed if the healing does not come at once, or even through a miracle. Remember the blessed Timothy, who labored greatly in the gospel and yet was often afflicted with stomach infirmities. The Apostle Paul, who had power to raise the dead, did not command the sickness to depart, but instead advised a little wine for its relief. Why? So that we might learn that even the holiest among us share in human frailty, and that God sometimes permits such weakness for the humbling of the soul and the good of the sufferer. Therefore, pray with fervor, but do not neglect the remedies of medicine, which the Creator in His mercy has provided.
At the same time, while you seek bodily healing, do not forget the health of her soul. Our Lord, when He healed the paralytic, said, “Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you.” Not every illness is a direct punishment for sin, but it is always a summons to examine our hearts and turn to God with repentance. Urge your mother to seek spiritual cleansing as earnestly as she desires release for her body. For the body’s relief is temporary, but the soul’s purity is eternal.
And you yourself, honor your mother not only with prayers but with deeds. The commandment of God is clear: “Honor your father and your mother.” Do not be like those who offer words of piety while neglecting the real needs of their parents. Attend to her with patience and love; let your care be a living sacrifice, acceptable to God. In this you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Above all, approach the throne of grace with unwavering faith, believing that He is able to do far more than we ask or think. His mercy goes beyond sparing us punishment; it makes us righteous, sons, and heirs. Cry out for her continually, yet always add, “Thy will be done.” For He knows what best serves our salvation, and He works all things for good to those who love Him.
At the same time, while you seek bodily healing, do not forget the health of her soul. Our Lord, when He healed the paralytic, said, “Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you.” Not every illness is a direct punishment for sin, but it is always a summons to examine our hearts and turn to God with repentance. Urge your mother to seek spiritual cleansing as earnestly as she desires release for her body. For the body’s relief is temporary, but the soul’s purity is eternal.
And you yourself, honor your mother not only with prayers but with deeds. The commandment of God is clear: “Honor your father and your mother.” Do not be like those who offer words of piety while neglecting the real needs of their parents. Attend to her with patience and love; let your care be a living sacrifice, acceptable to God. In this you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Above all, approach the throne of grace with unwavering faith, believing that He is able to do far more than we ask or think. His mercy goes beyond sparing us punishment; it makes us righteous, sons, and heirs. Cry out for her continually, yet always add, “Thy will be done.” For He knows what best serves our salvation, and He works all things for good to those who love Him.
