Venerable Acacius of Sinai 12/12/2013
In his glorious book The Ladder of Divine Ascent Saint John Climacus gives an account of the life of this Saint. As a novice the young Acacius lived in obedience to his harsh Elder at a monastery on Sinai. The hard-hearted Elder constantly reprimanded and insulted Acacius, very often beat him and harassed and tormented him in all possible ways. Yet, Acacius did not complain, but meekly endured the afflictions strongly believing that all was for the benefit of his salvation. Whenever asked how his life was, he answered: “Well, as before the Lord! “ After nine years of obedience and torments Acacius died. His Elder buried him and went to see a holy Elder and told him: “Acacius, my disciple, is dead. “ “I do not believe it, said the holy Elder, Acacius is not dead. “ Then they both went to the tomb of the deceased and the holy Elder called out: “Brother Acacius, are you dead? “ The obedient Acacius, still obedient after his death, answered: “No, Father, how is it possible for an obedient man to die? “ His callous Elder repented, went to a cell near the tomb of Acacius, where he lived for the rest of his life in prayer and repentance.
