Theodoret of Cyrrhus → Patricius

Theodoret to Alexandros.

The cares of this life press upon us from every side, and sometimes the weight seems almost more than flesh can bear. But the divine promises sustain us, and the knowledge that He who created us has not abandoned us gives strength even in the darkest hour.

I write to you now partly to discharge the obligations of friendship, and partly to commend to your care the very devout monk who bears this letter. He has lived an exemplary life, and whatever kindness you show him will be repaid many times over by the Lord of all, who regards acts of mercy toward His servants as acts done to Himself.