THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
Let us consider the voice of God’s army, fortified by spiritual prayers, as they prepare to confront their adversaries. ‘Lord, we have heard with our ears.’ Some of their soldiers, witnessing the sheer size and formation of Antiochus' forces, and recognizing the way they had swiftly conquered, succumbed to fear and despair. In response, the prophet sought to uplift their spirits, reminding them that their triumph rested solely on divine guidance and that with God’s assistance, victory could be achieved without a conventional army. Through prayer, he imparted encouragement and teaching to the troops, reigniting their fervor. This was a significant source of solace, for it was not the prophet’s words alone that inspired them but the way he communicated with God.
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He continues, ‘For they did not gain the land by their sword, nor did their strength save them, but Thy right hand and Thy arm, and Thy shining face, because Thou hast favored them’ (Psalms 43:4). In doing this, he reassured those who might feel weak in spirit or who hoped to achieve victory through mere human effort.
Why did he not simply state, ‘We have heard,’ but rather, ‘with our ears we have heard’? Is it possible to hear with any other part of the body? These words are not redundant. People often emphasize their own conviction when communicating significant truths to those who may be skeptical, saying they heard it ‘with their own ears.’ This is a common practice; we invoke our senses as witnesses. Just as we might say, ‘we touched with our hands,’ the apostles express, ‘what we have seen with our eyes, what we have examined, and what our hands have touched’ (1 John 1:1). Observe the commendable humility of the Maccabees at the outset: after enduring profound hardships for the Lord, losing their homeland and freedom, risking their lives, and even fleeing to mountains and deserts, they did not seek help by recounting their sufferings or merits. Instead, they humbly relied on God's blessings bestowed upon their ancestors. Such conduct is not surprising from those who might have felt timid but is noteworthy when the valiant turn to God's grace rather than their own virtues.
The mention of their forebears serves to inspire courage; the very name of God can quell countless conflicts. ‘Our fathers have declared to us.’ Take heed, you who neglect your children and allow them to indulge in worldly songs, not nurturing them with divine teachings. Unlike these ancient ones, who diligently narrated God’s mighty acts, you must ensure your children are enriched by such accounts. This practice yielded benefits: those who experienced God’s kindness were uplifted, and their descendants found in those narratives much divine wisdom, fostering their zeal for righteousness. The words of parents became a source of learning; every moment of life engaged them in stories more delightful and meaningful than anything mundane. If simple tales, myths, and fables can offer insights, then narratives that reveal God’s immense care, might, wisdom, and provision encourage listeners to strive for greater virtue.
Witnesses to God's deeds carried these stories, where hearing them proved just as valuable as seeing them. Those who weren't present still believed with fervor as much as those who were, and such faith was a great asset. Let us examine what they proclaimed and whether they recalled something relatable to their situation. When anyone is in need and seeks support, they can reference favors granted to others to appeal for similar kindness. For instance, if a servant requests a gift after noting that another received it, they possess a strong case. Yet, if the circumstances are too dissimilar, the request may require justification.
Consider what is expressed in Scripture. The Canaanite woman, upon hearing, ‘It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs,’ replied, ‘True, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table’ (Matthew 15:26, 27). Similarly, Paul asserts, ‘if others have authority over you, do we not more so?’ (1 Cor. 9:12), implying that his position enhances his claim. In another passage, he humbly argues, ‘for love's sake I appeal to you’ (Phlm. 1:7-9), presenting himself as an equal.
Each recipient of a blessing opens the door for subsequent requests, especially when the seeking party mirrors the benefactor. Furthermore, previous acts of kindness can lend additional weight to our pleas. Paul illustrates this when he recalls, ‘you also sent aid once and again to my needs’ (Phil. 4:16). This is why many ask for discretion in their giving—so that one favor does not provoke a flood of requests from others. A single act can lead to numerous subsequent demands from a generous giver, whereas with God, His visible generosity allows others to approach Him with boldness, revealing His greater glory. Paul acknowledges, ‘He is rich to all who call upon Him’ (Romans 10:12). Notice how His wealth is characterized by others being welcomed to share in it.
If you wish to emulate such bounty, recognize that by sharing your saved resources, you amplify their value; hoarding them only leads to loss. It is logical that this principle applies to spiritual blessings, just as it does to material wealth. A man who hoards seeds instead of scattering them for planting will see them consumed by pests, while the one who sows will reap a bountiful harvest. Take heed, those of you reluctant to give; those filling their coffers only diminish their worth. Consider also those who, despite the fleeting riches of this world, find themselves in a precarious state.
Ultimately, the day will reveal those truly prosperous when we depart to our eternal home, distinguishing between those rich in earthly possessions and those with everlasting treasures. In this realm, names often deceive; the truly wealthy hold what can carry over to eternity, not simply a façade of abundance. One may possess gold and finery, yet the true richness exists in the generosity of giving. Wealth consists not of possessions, but of the grace shared with others, as earthly treasures are merely temporary. What garment can shield a soul naked before the inevitable judgment? What amount of money can ransom a spirit caught in peril? What physical strength or fortifications can aid against the overwhelming reality of sin?
As we progress, let’s focus back on our theme. ‘Our fathers have made known unto us the work which thou didst in their days, in the days of old.’ This phrase can be understood as an analogy for us; just as the fathers recounted God’s deeds, divine grace now similarly bestows upon us knowledge through the Holy Spirit. By remembering their experiences, we can apply them to recognize the grace of new covenant blessings and the truth of Christ's incarnation, which broke down the barriers that separated us from God.
As we reflect on past acts of God, the prophet returns to significant ancient events, sharing the remarkable works that took place in times long ago. Why does he not mention contemporary happenings? We often recount recent events to persuade those with limited memory. However, for God, there is no distinction between past and present; He comprehends all equally. The Psalmist proclaims, ‘Thou, O Lord, has known all things from the beginning and the end’ (Psalms 138:4). It remains irrelevant to Him whether one speaks of old or new acts, given that it remains pertinent to the matter at hand. What ancient occurrences does the prophet wish to recall? Let us listen closely.