Mystery of the Cross

abandonment & joy, the crosses In this spiritual context, "crosses" refers to the personal burdens, sufferings, or difficulties that a believer must carry as part of their religious devotion. that His wisdom has destined for our trials, humiliations, renunciations, & purifications, which are their true purpose. I am with you in spirit Literally "of good heart." The author is expressing spiritual presence despite physical absence., as I cannot yet be so in body.

MY DEAR THEOPHILUS,

From the solitude of
SONNENSTEIN Sonnenstein Castle in Pirna, Saxony. In the early 18th century, it served various administrative and residential purposes; here, the author uses it as a place of spiritual retreat or "solitude.",
August 12, 1732.