Chrysostom
Beloved of All
The prayer you seek in Jesus' name shall be lifted up for your stomach. That very part of the body, which sustains our earthly frame, often becomes the seat of pain and weakness. Remember how even the blessed Timothy, though a fellow-laborer with Paul, suffered frequent infirmities of the stomach. The apostle did not command a miracle to relieve him, but simple medicine: “Use a little wine.” Why? Not because divine power was lacking, but so that you and I might learn that the best of saints remain subject to the common frailties of our nature. Bodily affliction restrains pride, teaches humility, and draws the soul to depend on God alone.
Do not, then, be cast down by this trial. Pain of the body arises from the conditions of this life, not from any sin you need suspect. Yet as you pray for relief, also welcome whatever measure of healing He grants, whether swiftly or gradually. He who made the body also gave the wisdom of physicians and the means of care. Use them with thanksgiving, but above all commit your distress to the Lord who knows our frame. I shall join my intercession to yours: may Christ, the true physician, touch your stomach with His healing mercy and grant you both comfort and patience, to His glory.
Do not, then, be cast down by this trial. Pain of the body arises from the conditions of this life, not from any sin you need suspect. Yet as you pray for relief, also welcome whatever measure of healing He grants, whether swiftly or gradually. He who made the body also gave the wisdom of physicians and the means of care. Use them with thanksgiving, but above all commit your distress to the Lord who knows our frame. I shall join my intercession to yours: may Christ, the true physician, touch your stomach with His healing mercy and grant you both comfort and patience, to His glory.
