THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
In this instance, he names the location in remembrance of the event. Those who excavated the well discovered it to be empty, as noted in the translation of the Septuagint. However, since this was on the same day they established their covenant, Isaac referred to the site as the well of the oath, creating a lasting memorial of the occasion. Do you perceive how a just man, who had yet to receive instruction from the law and had no prior example before him save that of his father, guided by an inner teacher inherent to humanity—namely his conscience—demonstrated such wisdom? The incidents he experienced revealed not only the humility of this righteous man but also the reality that through his actions, he was already living out the commands of Christ.
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What Christ instructed His disciples—encouraging them not only to love those who love them but also to extend love toward their adversaries—Isaac had already embodied by offering great hospitality to those who bore such animosity towards him and by casting aside any bitterness from his heart.
What grace may we expect to receive if, after the manifestation of divine grace and the teachings and commandments of our Saviour, we fail to reach even the level of this righteous man? Indeed, I don’t merely mean reaching his level; we struggle even to draw near. The depravity of humanity has escalated to such a point that it is rare to find those who love in return. What hope do we have for redemption if we sink beneath the least of society, as Christ remarked: ‘If you love those who love you, what reward will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same?’ (Matthew 5:46). Christ calls us to attain the highest peak of virtue, surpassing even the tax collectors; yet, we strive to be beneath them. Indeed, we become worse than thieves, grave robbers, and murderers. Even they extend love to those who treat them kindly and often risk their safety for those they care for.
What regret should fill us when we, who have been favored with such immense love from God, find ourselves more wretched than those who have committed countless sins? Therefore, I implore you: considering the severe judgment and overwhelming disgrace that await us, let us, albeit belatedly, recognize our dignity, yield to Christ's teachings, and endeavor not only to love those who genuinely love us—removing all spite and hatred from our hearts—but also to extend our love to any who may oppose us. Without following this path, salvation remains unattainable. Let us strive, even more fervently than those who cherish us, to love those who aid us in obtaining numerous blessings. Thus, we will be positioned to receive forgiveness of our sins and approach God with humility and a repentant heart. When the soul is liberated from all enmity, and the mind finds peace, it can earnestly call upon the Lord, drawing down significant assistance from above, which we may all experience through the grace and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory alongside the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and forever, and into eternity. Amen.