Letter 1246: Just as the quality of the site of a city is closely related to the quality of the climate [of the location], in the...
Just as the quality of the site of a city is closely related to the quality of the climate [of the location], in the same way for hearts, a good disposition to virtue helps the divine alliance along. In other words, if you are naturally virtuous, this will help lead you into a relationship with Christ. Well, maybe; but I’m not at all sure that the apostles would have agreed. Won’t the naturally virtuous tend to be proud, like the Pharisee? Pride obstructs the recognition of sin, and so prevents repentance and conversion at all.
Human translation — Roger Pearse (additional translations)
Related Letters
With the gods' help, we arrived at our destination after a smooth voyage and an easy journey.
1. Although, when we heard recently of your having obtained merited promotion to the highest rank, we felt persuaded, however uncertain we still were in some degree as to the truth of the report, that towards the Church of which we rejoice to know that you are truly a son, there was no other feeling in your mind than that which you have now made...
On the saying, “Do not make my Father’s house a house of trade”.
Knowing full well that indulgence breeds passions and gluttony drags a person toward sexual immorality, I think you...
I consider that day the beginning of our friendship — the day I invited you to a modest dinner, and you thought even...