THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
When the Israelites heard these words, the entire assembly, forgetting the Lord and the mighty acts performed in Egypt, were overcome with great fear. They hesitated to engage in battle, declined to stand against their adversaries, and lost their affection for the promised land. Instead of reflecting on the omnipotent and unassailable hand of their Deliverer, they lamented like children and quaked, fearing for their families and cherished belongings at the hands of their foes. They even expressed that slavery in Egypt was preferable to their current situation, claiming that the burden of that bondage was easier to bear. With sorrowful hearts, they suggested a return to their captors.
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However, those who aspire to receive such momentous and glorious gifts—like paradise—are called to fight not merely against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, the authorities, and the powers of the darkness of this age, as written in Ephesians 6:12. Yet, those who are preoccupied with worldly matters, who choose transient pleasures over eternal joy, find it difficult to engage in this spiritual struggle. Observe how the Israelites, motivated by concerns for their families, completely contradict the encouragement of the elect, succumbing instead to fear and timidity. Likewise, think of those who, at the arrival of our Savior Christ, faltered in their faith due to the uproar stirred by the Jews. Some, however, chose to believe, valuing their love for God over earthly matters. For it is written that those invited to the feast began to make excuses, with one saying, "I have bought a field," and another, "I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come" (Luke 14:18, 20). Do you discern the commonality of their inclinations? Do you perceive the shared nature of their trials?