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Translation
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What the Fathers say
Eastern Fathers
Theophylact of Ohrid
Just as it is not always convenient to sow, so too with performing works of mercy, as both the virgins and Lazarus show. Therefore, while we have time in this life, let us do good—that is, kindness and mercy—not only to teachers, but also to Greeks and Jews. Of course, assistance should not be rendered to these latter in the same measure as to fellow believers, but greater generosity should be shown to the faithful. …
Oecumenius
"as we have opportunity." For in this life, the opportunity is for work; there it is no longer. "let us do good to all people." Toward Jews, toward Greeks, and especially toward the faithful.
Cyprian
And therefore, dearest brethren, whose fear is inclined towards God, and who having already despised and trampled under foot the world, have lifted up your mind to things heavenly and divine, let us with full faith, with devoted mind, with continual labour, give our obedience, to deserve well of the Lord. Let us give to Christ earthly garments, that we may receive heavenly raiment; let us give food and drink of this world, that we may come with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob to the heavenly banquet. …
Western Saints
Jerome
Therefore, while we have time, let us do good to all, especially to those who belong to the family of faith. It is the time of sowing, as we have said, the present time, and the lifespan we are running. In this life, we are allowed to sow what we desire; when this life passes, the time for action is taken away. Thus, the Savior says: Work while it is day; night is coming when no one can work (John 9:4). The word of God has risen for us, the true sun, and the beasts have returned to their dens. …
Thomas Aquinas
Then when he says, "Whilst we have time, let us work good to all men," he advises everyone to minister, saying: Since we shall reap, not failing, then "whilst we have time", i.e., in this life, which is the time for sowing: "I must work the works of him that sent me, whilst it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work" (Jn 9:4); "Whatsoever thy hand is able to do, do it earnestly; for neither work nor reason nor wisdom nor knowledge shall be in hell whither thou art hastening" (Sir 9:10). …
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