THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
Is it not justifiable, I ask, for Paul to label covetousness as idolatry? The reverence that pagans show to idols is similarly directed towards apparel and precious metals. How long will we remain immersed in filth? How long will we hold onto clay and bricks? Just as those Jews labored for the Pharaoh of Egypt, we are toiling for the adversary, enduring even harsher afflictions. Do not misconstrue these statements as hyperbole: the higher the spirit rises above the flesh, the more severe the injuries we inflict upon ourselves daily through our anxieties, alongside fear and trepidation. Yet if we desire to repent, if we seek to raise our eyes towards the Almighty, He will not send us Moses and Aaron; instead, He will provide His word and genuine contrition.
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This will liberate our souls from our bitter bondage, leading us out of Egypt, away from this futile and empty distress, and from a slavery that yields no benefit. Those who escaped at least departed with gold, recompensed for their toil; we, however, obtain nothing—if only that were true! Instead, we now bear burdens of calamity—sins, afflictions, and torments. Let us strive to seek our own favor and learn to endure loss; this is truly befitting of a Christian.