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NPNF2-08. Basil: Letters and Select Works - Holy Bible Institute

NPNF2-08. Basil: Letters and Select Works - Holy Bible Institute

NPNF2-08. Basil: Letters and Select Works - Holy Bible Institute

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To Eusebius, bishop of Samosata.To Eusebius, bishop of Samosata. 2478Letter CXLV. 2477I know the countless labours which you have undergone for the Churches of God; Iknow your press of occupation, while you discharge your responsibilities, not as thoughthey were of mere secondary importance, but in accordance with God’s will. I know theman 2479 who is, as it were, laying close siege to you <strong>and</strong> by whom you are forced, like birdscrouching in cover under an eagle, not to go far from your shelter. I know all this. Butlonging is strong, both in hoping for the impracticable <strong>and</strong> attempting the impossible.Rather I should say, hope in God is the strongest of all things. 2480 For it is not from unreasonabledesire, but from strength of faith, that I expect a way out, even from the greatestdifficulties, <strong>and</strong> that you will find a way to get over all hindrances, <strong>and</strong> to come to see theChurch that loves you best of all, <strong>and</strong> to be seen by her. What she values most of all goodthings is to behold your face <strong>and</strong> to hear your voice. Beware then of making her hopes vain.When last year, on my return from Syria, I reported the promise which you had given me,you cannot think how elated with her hopes I made her. Do not, my friend, postpone yourcoming to another time. Even if it may be possible for you to see her one day, you may notsee her <strong>and</strong> me too, for sickness is hurrying me on to quit this painful life.2062477 Placed in 373.2478 On a possible visit of Eusebius to Cæsarea.2479 i.e. Valens.2480 “Vita vere mortalis spes est vitæ immortalis.” St. Augustine in Ps. iii. “Spes æternitatem animum erigit,et idcirco nulla mala sentit.” St. Greg., Moral. cf. Ovid. i. Pont. 7: Quamvis est igitur meritis indebita nostris,Magna tamen spes est in bonitate Dei.596

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