Step 10 ~ On Slander
¶4. I have heard people slandering, and I have rebuked them. And these doers of evil replied in self-defence that they were doing so out of love and care for the person whom they were slandering. I said to them: ‘Stop that kind of love, otherwise you will be condemning as a liar him who said: “Him that privily talked against his neighbour, did I drive away.” If you say you love, then pray secretly, and do not mock the man. For this is the kind of love that is acceptable to the Lord.’ But I will not hide this from you (and of course be careful, lest you judge the offender): Judas was in the company of Christ’s disciples, and the thief was in the company of murderers. Yet it is a wondrous thing, how in a single instant, they exchanged places!
Why aren't those sturdy on the ladder helping those who are falling off?
ReplyDeleteThey are helping them, but in an unseen way by means of their example and prayers. Also notice the fathers in the bottom right hand corner. They have already reached paradise and are helping everyone still on the Ladder by means of their witness and prayers.
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