Eternal Weight of Glory

St. Paul is speaking to the Corinthians when he encourages them to remain patient in the midst of their persecutions and sufferings. He tells the Corinthians that it is for no purpose that God is allowing these trials to overtake them. It is almost like St. Paul has already seen his eternal crown awaiting him in heaven, since he reflects this same confidence he has towards the sufferings the Corinthians are suffering. He uses the term “momentary light affliction, in order to give perspective to these momentary sufferings in comparison to the “eternal weight of glory,” which they do not see, but is sure to come if they can hold onto their present path of faith. The phrase is a literal translation of the Greek: “eternal weight of glory.” This means that though the yoke of the Lord is somewhat burdensome, yet (as Jesus tells his disciple’s easy and light) the eternal weight of glory will never end. In order to get another perspective on what St. Paul is saying, let us hear him in another passage: “But as it is written: What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and what has not entered the human heart, what God has prepared for those who love him,” this God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit scrutinizes everything, even the depths of God. ” (1 Cor. 2:9-10)