THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
As Anna was deeply troubled and distressed, her sorrow prompted her prayer to become more fervent, leading her to bow down before God, who then fulfilled her request, resulting in the birth of Samuel. Similarly, if we remain vigilant, our adversaries will not only fail to harm us, but will also contribute to our greatest good, prompting us to be more diligent in all our endeavors—provided that the distress they cause us drives us not to resentment and offense, but to earnest prayer. When Anna bore her son, she named him Samuel, meaning "he shall hear God." This name was given to commemorate her own experience of being heard through her prayers, rather than being influenced by familial tradition.
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She chose not to name him after his father or any ancestors, but instead honored the One who granted her the gift of a son. Let us, as spouses, take her example to heart and show the same devotion to our children, ensuring their upbringing aligns with our values, including their path in purity.
The same level of care applies to young men, for nothing demands more vigilance and attention than the virtues of chastity and purity, especially in this age where temptations abound. Just as we are cautious about where we place lamps to prevent fire, we must also be diligent in guiding our children away from harmful influences, such as inappropriate maidens or illicit company. If such influences exist in our surroundings, we must proactively ensure they are kept away from our children, guarding against any spark that could ignite their souls with desire.
We must also restrict access to corrupting songs and spectacles that could sway their hearts. Let us protect the young men even more diligently than the young women hidden away, for maintaining chastity is the greatest adornment of youth, enabling them to enter marriage free from lustful inclinations. A marriage built on fidelity and purity fosters deeper love, sincere affection, and reliable companionship, unlike the present notion of marriage as a mere transaction. If a young man engages in infidelity before marriage, his gaze towards another's wife post-marriage renders the union futile. Such behavior leads to severe spiritual consequences, including strife and turmoil within the household, eroding genuine love for one’s wife.
In contrast, a man who embraces chastity views his wife as the most precious gift and experiences profound harmony with her, inviting blessings and tranquility into their home. As we strive to arrange our lives well on earth and prepare for eternal life in the kingdom of heaven, let us diligently uphold this commandment, ensuring we approach spiritual union not in spiritual defilement but with confidence, attired in the honor reserved for the worthy. May we all achieve this through the grace and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom with the Father and the Holy Spirit be glory, honor, and power, now and forever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.