the faithful were called upon to believe
that—although there ought not to be any doubt
about the promises of happiness—
yet we should understand
that amidst the trials of this life
we must ask for the power of endurance...
because the joyousness of reigning
cannot precede the times of suffering....
according to the preaching of the most holy gospel,
and let no one be ashamed of Christ's cross,
through which the world was redeemed.
And let not any one fear to suffer for righteousness' sake,
or doubt of the fulfillment of the promises,
for this reason: that through toil we pass to rest
and through death to life;
since all the weakness of our humility was assumed
by Him, in whom, if we abide
in the acknowledgment and love of Him,
we conquer as He conquered,
and receive what He promised."
~ Saint Leo the Great, Sermon 51
