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If any be a devout lover of God,
let him partake with gladness from this fair and radiant feast.
If any be a faithful servant,
let him enter rejoicing into the joy of his Lord.
If any have wearied himself with fasting,
let him now enjoy his reward.
If any have labored from the first hour,
let him receive today his rightful due.
If any have come after the third,
let him celebrate the feast with thankfulness.
If any have come after the sixth,
let him not be in doubt, for he will suffer no loss.
If any have delayed until the ninth,
let him not hesitate but draw near.
If any have arrived only at the eleventh,
let him not be afraid because he comes so late.
For the Master is generous
and accepts the last even as the first.
He gives rest to him who comes at the eleventh hour
in the same was as him who has labored from the first.
He accepts the deed, and commends the intention.
Enter then, all of you, into the joy of our Lord . . .
Saint John Chrysostom
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