THEOSISAmbrose of Milan
Indeed, the ultimate and supreme good is virtue, which alone yields the fruits of a joyful and fulfilled life. This blissful existence is not founded on external or material possessions, but rather stems solely from virtue, through which one can attain eternal life. The joyful life is the product of current blessings, while eternal life serves as the promise of future rewards.
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Nonetheless, some argue that experiencing bliss within the frail and fragile nature of our earthly bodies is unattainable, as anxiety, sorrow, tears, and illness are part of human existence. You might interpret my words as suggesting that a blessed life is evident in physical vitality rather than in the richness of wisdom, the peace of a clear conscience, and the elevation of virtuous living. To be truly blessed means to triumph over adversity, not merely to endure the transient pains that life presents.
Let us consider situations that impose burdens and suffering—blindness, exile, hunger, mistreatment of loved ones, or the loss of children. Yet, who would deny the blessedness of Isaac, who, despite becoming blind in his later years, conferred blessings upon others? Was not Jacob, who fled his father’s house, lived in exile, worked as a hired shepherd, grieved for his daughter’s dishonor, and faced hunger, still blessed? And were not those who bore witness in faith to the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob also blessed?
While slavery might seem miserable, Joseph remained untroubled and even blessed, having triumphed over the desires of his mistress. What about King David, who mourned the loss of three sons and bore the deep sorrow of his daughter's violation? Is he not blessed, from whose lineage came the Creator of joy, who has made so many blessings apparent? “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” Though they recognized their frailty, they transformed their weakness into strength. Who exemplifies patience more than Job, who endured the loss of his home, the simultaneous death of ten children, and severe physical afflictions? Would he have been deemed less blessed had he not endured the tribulations for which he is so celebrated?