06 August 2006

Patristic Quote for the Day

But behold, also let no one dare to say: I have not sinned. He who says this is blind; he has shut his eyes. He deceives himself and knows not that Satan is robbing him blind - both in word and deed, through all of the senses, sight, hearing, and touch, and through thoughts. For who can boast that he has an innocentheart and that all his senses are pure?

No one is sinless, no one is clean of defilement, no man is free from guilt except Him alone Who for our sake was impoverished though He was rich. He alone is sinless Who took upon Himself the sins of the world, wants all men to be saved, desires not the death of a sinner and is a lover of mankind, abundantly benevolent, kindhearted, and sincerely loving.

Let us also run to Him, for all sinners who have run to Him have found salvation.

--St. Ephrem the Syrian, *A Spiritual Psalter* #126

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

very appropriate words to ponder as I prepare for my next confession.

Thanks

Deb