To Pancharius

We are distressed to see the storm over the churches. But their Master and Ruler always uses mighty waves to show people his own wisdom and power. He rebukes the winds and brings a calm, as he did when he was in the apostles’ boat. So although I am distressed, I know this power of our Savior and I know what he arranges for us. And so, even if trouble comes upon me, I give thanks and accept it as a gift from God. I have learned the lesson of caring little for the present and waiting for the blessings we look for. But it is fitting for your excellency to defend the apostolic faith zealously, so that you may receive from the God of all the reward for such conduct. [a]