Historical Writings of John of Ephesus

The Book of the History of the Conduct of the Blessed Saints: Those whom God chose and selected, and which one who loves God has written.

[Mar Yohannan] 1 is among the disciples of [Our God]...

When we have cast off the world and departed from it, we have exited the first gates, understanding how the light of rest is prepared for us. And from the time we departed, that we might serve the celestial one of heaven by night in his mansions, it was not known to us, except by the number of many desires, that there would be losses. And in the investigations of the holy athletes, let this be, that it may shine in life and be seen at all times. Those things for which there was a sign of a word, are witness to something. And all that was in the power of the Highest and the mysteries of guidance, we have understood: that our Savior keeps his paths from being finished, so that for the work of salvation, the praise of their conduct and their lives clears the paths, that all good things may be named. For we have faith through the humble and abject treasures of the world, that those who are far from the Creator are made known. And when the congregation of our Savior has triumphed, let them work in time and bring forth their good, shining, and victorious lives. Through this, we have been urged to call these histories to mind... one is this: that by the rest of their persons, one may see and discern the glory of the sun, as one who is righteous, for they are shining... the time shines with the light of the history of those who were cast into the crowds of this world, and some in their youth. They shine through the light of their lives and are disposed to the reach of all, and to hope for the forgiveness of their sins through their prayers, in such a way that they might be worthy of their crowns. And let them praise with them Him who received the life of the Lamb, and He who is planted in all creation. All these and everything, for there is of the narrative of the world...

f. 1 v. b.

1) Cf. caput 58.