THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
O Lord, we recall You in our grief, recognizing that Your discipline is mild compared to our transgressions. Just as a woman in labor experiences anguish, so do we in our devotion to the beloved. Filled with immense love for God, the revered prophet spoke out against the Jews for their brazen actions, declaring, "Enclose evil to all the glorious ones of the earth." Yet, to avoid being perceived as harsh and unyielding, he encouraged those who have not sinned to seek forgiveness instead of remaining in sorrow and despair. He emphasized that it is a common human trait to remember the Almighty during times of turmoil and distress.
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For a surplus of peace can lead to negligence, causing individuals to be unaware of their failings; however, sorrow compels them to turn toward God and recognize their shortcomings. Thus, it is stated, "Put evil to the plums of the earth," for all humanity should strive to remember You and align their thoughts and actions with Your divine will, especially during adversity.
In times of suffering, we are only slightly chastised, as God does not excessively punish us but instead tempers His fury with mercy. The plea for Him to bring trials upon those who have sinned stems not from hatred but from a deep love, seeking to awaken understanding, so that those lacking the fruits of righteousness may be compelled to pursue it, feeling the weight of God's displeasure. David purports, "Thou shalt bruise their jaws with rods and bridles, and shake them that draw not nigh unto Thee" (Psalms 31:9). The Jews, having committed grievous sins and acted brazenly against Christ, have succumbed to sorrow. Yet we belong to You; we are wise and speak what delights You, directing our affection toward Your beloved, namely, Your Son. Indeed, like a woman in the pains of labor, we cry out against those who dishonor Him, rising with all our strength against those who disobey. Truly, this echoes what the prophets have declared. The blessed Isaiah, reproaching the insolent remarks made by the Jews against Christ, admonishes, “But come ye this day, ye lawless sons, ye seed of adulterers and harlots: in what do ye delight, and on whom do ye open your mouth, and on whom do ye pour out your tongue, are ye not the children of destruction, ye lawless seed?” (Is. 57:3, 4). Similarly, the blessed David speaks of them, “Let their eyes be darkened and their backbone be compelled to see” (Ps. 68:24). Moreover, the holy prophets have numerous denunciations aimed at the synagogue of the Jews for their wickedness towards Christ.