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 God's grace when in reality they are in a miserable state, stripped of God's grace and blinded to their true condition.

The reference to riches may also imply that the bishop of Laodicea had given himself too much to the acquisition of worldly goods. He thus became the very opposite of St. Polycarp who was poor in material goods, but rich in the grace and love of God.

18. The bishop is commanded to arouse himself from this spiritual lethargy. Instead of the base gold of earthly riches, he must obtain the pure gold of charity and zeal, a gold purified in the fire of trials and temptations. Thus shall he clothe himself with the white garments of grace. Then will his eyes be opened to a proper knowledge of the things of God.

19, 20. Trials and afflictions are proof of God's mercy and love. They arouse the soul to greater fervor. Christ is ever patient and loving. He stands at the door of our soul ready to bestow His graces and blessings. But the soul must cooperate; it must open the door to Him.

21. A share in the glories of Christ in heaven is promised to those who cooperate with His graces and persevere unto the end.

These warnings to the churches show Christ's solicitude for our salvation. They also prove His deep concern for those charged with the care of souls.