ACC ~ Mark 12 v44a

WHAT THE MISER LACKS

JEROME: There is an old saying that a tightwad lacks as much what he has as what he has not. One may have a whole world of wealth, another not a single scrap. Let each one live “as having nothing and yet possessing all.” [1] LETTER 53, TO PAULINUS 11. [2]

[1] 2 Cor 6:10.

[2] Cetedoc 0620, 53.54.11.464.17; NPNF 2 6:102**.

TRAVELING STEP BY STEP

EVAGRIUS: It is better to begin from one’s feeble state and end up strong, to progress from small things to larger, than to set your heart from the very first on the perfect way of life, then only to abandon it later—or keep to it solely out of habit, because of what others will think—in which case all this labor will be in vain. It is the same with people who travel: if they tire themselves out on the very first day by rushing along, they will end up wasting many days as a result of sickness. But if they start out walking at a gentle pace until they have gotten accustomed to walking, in the end they will not get tired, even though they walk great distances. Likewise anyone who wishes to embark on the labors of the virtuous life should train himself gently, until he gradually reaches the full extent of his abilities. Do not be perplexed by the many paths walked by our fathers of old, each different from the other. Do not overzealously try to imitate them all—this would only upset your way of life. Rather, choose a way of life that suits your feeble state; travel on that, and you will live, for your Lord is merciful and he will receive you, not because of your achievements, but because of your intention, just as he received the destitute woman’s gift. [1] ADMONITION ON PRAYER. [2]

[1] Cf. 2 Chron 6:14; 30:9; Neh 1:5; Ps 25:10; Dan 9:4; Jas 5:11.

[2] CS 101:66-67*.