On Human Redemption
“There is something mysterious in this abjection. O hidden strength: a man hangs on a cross and lifts the load of eternal death from a human race; a man nailed to wood looses the bonds of everlasting death that hold fast the world.”
“He had what was above all beings that are other than God, and he took on himself all the debt that sinners ought to pay, and this when he himself owed nothing, so that he could pay the debt for the others who owed it and could not pay.”
“Now, little man, leave their cruelties to the justice of God, and think of what you owe your Savior. Consider what he was to you, what he did for you, and think that for what he did for you he is the more worthy to be loved. Look into your need and his goodness, and see what thanks you should render him, and how much love you owe him. You were in darkness, on uncertain ground, descending into the chaos of hell that is beyond redemption. A huge leaden weight hung round your neck, dragging you downwards, an unbearable burden pressed upon you, invisible enemies were striking at you with all their might. You were without any help and you did not know it, for you were conceived and born in that state. What was happening to you, to what place were you rushing away? Remember and tremble; think and be afraid.”
– St. Anselm, Meditation on Human Redemption