Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; be wise as serpents—so as not to expose yourselves to needless dangers—and harmless as doves" (Matt. 10:16).

 "Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; be wise as serpents—so as not to expose yourselves to needless dangers—and harmless as doves" (Matt. 10:16).

What are You saying? We find ourselves among wolves, yet You command us to be like sheep and doves? "Yes," He says, "for nothing changes the evildoer's conduct quite like bravely enduring what he inflicts upon us, without retaliating for the malice either in word or deed." This makes us more prudent, earns us a greater reward, and benefits them as well. Did someone insult you? Pray for him. Consider what you gain from this: you have extinguished the evil, secured a reward for yourself, changed his behavior, and suffered no harm yourself.

Saint John Chrysostom