A treatise by St Cyprian
In times of peace the testimony of a good conscience wins the crown |
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The sufferings of this present time are not to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed in us.
Who would not strive wholeheartedly to attain to such glory, to become a
friend of God and straightway rejoice with Christ, receiving heavenly
rewards after earth’s torment and suffering? Soldiers of this world take
pride in returning to their home country in triumph after they have
defeated the enemy. How much greater is the glory in returning
triumphantly to heaven after conquering the devil. The bold deceiver is
laid low, the trophies of victory are restored to the place from which
Adam was cast out for his sin. We offer to the Lord a most acceptable
gift, our incorrupt faith, the unshaken courage of our spirit and the
glorious pride of our dedication. We accompany him when he comes to take
vengeance on his enemies; sitting at his side at the judgement seat,
sharing in Christ’s inheritance, we are on an equal footing with the
angels and enjoy the possession of a heavenly kingdom together with the
patriarchs, apostles and prophets. What persecution can defeat such
thoughts, what torture overwhelm them?
These are the thoughts you must grasp with your heart
and mind and reflect on day and night. If persecution should overtake
such a soldier of God, it will not overcome one so virtuously prepared
for battle. Even if our summons should come sooner, our faith which was
prepared for the witness of martyrdom will not go unrewarded. For we
would immediately receive our reward by God’s judgement. In time of
persecution the battle wins the crown, but in peace it is the testimony
of good conscience.
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