THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
However, this is not the perspective shared by those great and wondrous individuals. What then? It is stated that I consistently give thanks to God for you, constantly remembering you in my prayers (Eph. 1:16). I have erred, I, the shepherd, have acted unjustly; and as for these sheep, what fault do they bear? (2 Sam. 24:17) And there was also another righteous figure who pleaded, Forgive them their sin; and if not, erase me from Your book that You have written (Ex. 32:32). Observing the grief of those in their company, they failed to recognize their own sorrow, whereas Hezekiah, enjoying his own prosperity, was oblivious to the sufferings of others.
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His nature was human, while theirs was angelic; he exhibited severity and harshness toward his kin, while they were compassionate and generous even towards strangers. We mention this to avoid making the same mistake. Consider the rich man, who, after being unjust toward Lazarus, showed a desire for mercy while in torment; how much more ought we to extend our mercy. Consider the benefit he realized from his suffering: the righteous Hezekiah disregarded even the welfare of his own children; conversely, the heartless man did not neglect his neighbors. Despite his suffering, he remained steadfast in prayer and supplication; even though he could offer no comfort, he continued to pray. Where are those who assert that the anguish of those in torment brings consolation through shared suffering? Observe that the rich man did not request additional torment; instead, he begged that his brothers would not sin and thereby avoid suffering the destinations they had yet to reach. Indeed, what good does it do you to desire to see others in anguish? Will it provide you any comfort in your own suffering? Will it ease your own distress? Surely they claim it does, yet if you believe this, you do not comprehend the depth of the agony. Do you suppose the rich man was alone in his suffering, devoid of companions in punishment? He was not solitary; as revealed by Abraham’s words, ‘A great gulf has been established between us and you’ (Luke 16:26). Does the presence of others lessen the intensity of the flames? It does not. Among the Jews who were led into exile, did their multitude provide them any comfort? If you engage the light of reason, you will see that only prayer can aid you in the suffering of others, guiding you toward salvation. Yet if we are all guilty before the Lord, who can appease His wrath? In light of Hezekiah’s cruelty toward his children, observe how the compassionate Lord responded to him.