Ezequiel 9
John Chrysostom · Comentário Patrístico (catena)
Ezequiel 9:4
I have heard many, after such experience, blame themselves and say, "What advantage is it that I have grieved? I have not recovered my money, and I have injured myself." But if you have grieved on account of sin, you have blotted it out and reaped the greatest pleasure. If you have grieved for your brothers who have fallen, you have both encouraged and comforted yourself and have also restored them; and even if you were not to profit them, you have an abundant recompense. And that you may learn that grieving for those who have fallen, though we should not at all benefit them, still brings us a large reward, hear what Ezekiel says, or rather, what God speaks through him. For when he had sent certain messengers to overturn the city and to consume all the dwellings with sword and fire, along with their inhabitants, God charges one of them, "Set a mark on the forehead of those that groan and are in anguish." And after charging the others and saying, "Begin from my holy ones," he goes on to add, "but do not touch whoever has the sign on him." — HOMILIES CONCERNING THE STATUES 18:9
Ezequiel 9:8
It is, after all, the practice of the prophets and the just to grieve not only for themselves but for the rest of humanity. If you are inclined to check that, you will find them all giving evidence of this compassion—for example, you can listen to Isaiah's words, "Don't put yourself out to comfort me for the destruction of the daughter of my people"; or Jeremiah, … "Who will pour water on my head and provide a fountain of tears for my eyes?" or Ezekiel, "Alas, Lord, will you destroy what remains of Israel?" — HOMILIES ON GENESIS 29:7
Ezequiel 9:8
You see, even if it is the wicked who perish, nevertheless the souls of good people are likely to show compassion when they see people being punished; and you will find each of the good people and the inspired writers making earnest supplication for them. — HOMILIES ON GENESIS 25:12