March 17

[Patient] endurance is like an unshakeable rock in the winds and waves of life. However the tempest batters him, the patient man remains steadfast and does not turn back; and when he finds relief and joy, he is not carried away by self-glory: he is always the same, whether things are hard or easy, and for this reason he is proof against the snares of the enemy.

When storms beset him, he endures them with joy, awaiting their end; and when the heavens smile on him, he expects temptation–until his last breath, as St Antony has said.

Such a person knows that nothing in life is unchangeable, and that all things pass. Thus he is not troubled or anxious about any of them, but leaves all things in the hands of God, for He has us in His care (1 Peter 5:7); and to Him belong all glory, honor and dominion throughout the ages. Amen.

~St Peter of Damaskos