THEOSISGregory the Great
These words depict a period in the holy Church's journey when it faces ridicule from the unrighteous; as iniquity increases, faith becomes a source of shame, and truth is seen as a liability. In such times, the more a person is scorned, the more virtuous they appear; the more loathed they become, the more deserving of honor. Thus, during challenging times, the holy Church, comprising the chosen, becomes a frequent topic for the wicked. They revile me, turn away from me, and are undeterred in their disdain. All ungodly individuals distance themselves from the holy Church; their separation arises not from physical absence, but from their character; they become estranged not by their location, but by their actions—growing pride conspicuously opposes the Church.
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To show contempt is not merely to slander the absent good but to assail the righteous while they stand present. The wicked, in their mockery, unleash torrents of derision upon them. It is said, "He opened his quiver and smote me." What does God's quiver signify if not His hidden wisdom? Behold, when the Lord draws an arrow from His quiver, it depicts the release of divine judgment from His secret counsel; for we understand that suffering can touch anyone, yet we often do not grasp why He allows it. When suffering leads to life’s correction, the very authority of that counsel is disclosed. Hence, a sealed quiver symbolizes a confidential counsel. However, we find ourselves purified by the open quiver when, following affliction, we discern the counsel by which we are disciplined. "He hath put a bridle upon my mouth." Let the Holy Church, which consistently upholds her words with love, proclaim, "He hath put a bridle upon my mouth." It is as though it were declared, 'Since I perceive no growth in faith through preaching, I shall endure their assaults, that they might learn from the example of my life—since they are unwilling to grasp my words whilst I preach.' Yet what weighs heavier upon our hearts during persecution is that we bear all of this from those dear to us—those in whom we have placed our trust and love.