THEOSISGregory the Great
When the Almighty was present with me, and my companions surrounded me, as Job expressed in Job 29:5, all who delight in the Divine commandments are considered God's dwelling places. As previously mentioned, Truth declares to those who uphold His commandments, "I and my Father will come to him and make our home with him," as stated in John 14:23. In contrast, the wicked, focused on external matters, turn away from the contemplations within their hearts. This is why the prophet urged them to return inward, saying, "Remember this, you transgressors," as found in Isaiah 46:8. Moreover, "Woe to those who devise iniquity," as noted in Micah 2:1, for they act in fear of those they can see, neglecting the presence of God, whom they cannot see.
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In commendation of the righteous, it is said that he disregarded the Pharaoh of Egypt and followed God’s commandments, acting "as seeing Him who is invisible," according to Hebrews 11:27. He did not see the earthly monarch because he chose to turn away from him in his heart, while he beheld the Invisible King, remaining steadfast in his soul's gaze.
The Holy Church suffers immensely when she sees many departing from God due to wicked thoughts, perceiving the emptiness of their hearts when God withdraws, as illustrated by the lament, "When God was in my tent." Today, we must also weep for those who present themselves as followers of the faith but do not genuinely embody its essence. They possess God only in public view, not in the hidden places of their hearts. The Holy Church yearns for God to come to her in secret, as He shows mercy to those who are truly faithful, who maintain their faith filled with love. As related to the external observance of righteousness, it is articulated, "When the Almighty was with me, and my servants were around me." The servants referred to are those who proclaim heavenly commandments. Therefore, as the Lord says through His prophet, "Here am I and the children the Lord has given me," according to Isaiah 8:18. Additionally, in the Gospel, we read, "Do you have any fish?" as noted in John 21:5. Now, "servants were encircled around her," because individuals from all nations upheld the Divine commandments and adhered to spiritual discipline. However, these true servants may be absent from her aid when negligent ones disregard her spiritual teachings.