(c.347-407) John, the most prominent Greek Father of the Church, preached sermons still considered some of the best in history, earning him the title of “Doctor” as well as “Chrysostom,” which means “golden-mouth.” Born in Antioch, John lived as a hermit and then priest for several years. He was made bishop of Constantinople, a move that involved him in imperial politics. The empress, Eudoxia, and some nobles and bishops did not appreciate his calls to reform their lives, and he died in exile.
Saint John is incredibly quotable. Still, all of his best quotes point to what is in Scripture. In recovery, we strive to share the message, not our mess.
“If the Lord should give you power to raise the dead, He would give much less than He does when he bestows suffering. By miracles you would make yourself debtor to Him, while by suffering He may become debtor to you. And even if sufferings had no other reward than being able to bear something for that God who loves you, is not this a great reward and a sufficient remuneration? Whoever loves, understands what I say” (Saint John Chrysostom).
Reflection by Brad Farmer