146 (268). To Antiochus
SAINT BASIL
my hope in the Lord is the strongest of all. For, not with unreasoning desire, but in the strength of faith I even expect that a way will appear in the midst of the desperate situation, and that you will easily overcome all obstacles so that you may see the church which is most dear to you, and also, of course, that you may be seen. This is the most precious of all its blessings-to look upon your countenance and to hear your voice. Do not, therefore, render its hopes fruitless.
For, when I returned a year ago from Syria bringing that promise which I had received, how hopefully elated do you think I caused all to become? Do not, therefore, defer your visit until another time, admirable Sir. Even if a visit should be possible at some future time, that will not be when we also are present, since disease is pressing us to depart soon from this wretched life.
146. To Antiochus1 I am not able to charge you with idleness because you were silent when an opportunity of writing a letter offered itself.
For, the salutation which you sent me by your honored hand I prize more highly than many letters. Therefore, in return,
I greet you and I urge you to give earnest care to the safety of your soul, training all carnal passions according to reason and keeping the thought of God continually fixed in your soul, as in a most holy temple. In every deed and every speech place before your eyes the judgment of Christ, so that all your actions when brought together for that strict and fearful scrutiny may bring you glory in the day of retribution when before every creature you are adjudged worthy of praise. But,
Antiochus was the nephew of Eusebius, Bishop of Samosata. This letter was written in 373. Letters 157, 158, and 168 are also addressed to him.