The Transformative Power Of Grace

“Through their mother's mediation, the sons of Zebedee press Christ as follows in the presence of their fellow apostles: ‘Command that we may sit, one at your right side and one at your left’ (cf. Mk 10,35f.)... Christ hastens to free them from their illusions, telling them they must be prepared to suffer insults, persecutions, even death. ‘You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I shall drink?’ Let no one be surprised to see the apostles displaying such imperfect dispositions. Wait until the mystery of the cross has been fulfilled and the strength of the Holy Spirit given to them. If you want to see the strength of their souls, take a look at them later on and you will see them to be above all human weakness. Christ does not conceal their pettiness so you will be able to see what they become later on by the power of the grace that will transform them... Later on you will see this same John, who here approached Christ with the petition, gave precedence always to Saint Peter... James, however, did not live long after. From the beginning he was moved with great zeal. He gave up all earthly interests and attained such an inexpressible degree of excellence that from among the apostles he was killed the first (Acts 12,2).”

-St. John Chrysostom, Homilies on the Gospel of St. Matthew

Ask A Father

Q: St. John Chrysostom, is the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass merely an earthly reality?

A: "When you see the Lord immolated and lying upon the altar, and the priest bent over that sacrifice praying, and all the people empurpled by that precious blood, can you think that you are still among men and on earth? Or are you not lifted up to heaven?"

Ask A Father

Q: St. John Chrysostom, what was it like giving homilies in your day?

A: "If his sermon does not match the great expectation formed of the speaker, he will leave the pulpit the victim of countless jeers and complaints. No one ever takes into consideration that a fit of depression may cloud the clarity of his mind, and prevent his production from coming forth unalloyed....Being a man he cannot invariably reach the same standard or always be successful but will naturally make many mistakes and obviously fall below the standards of his real ability. People are unwilling to allow for any of these factors...but criticize him as if they were sitting in judgment on an angel."

.....okay. I think maybe somebody needs a nap!