When man does not go through the natural course of spiritual life, namely Crucifixion — Resurrection, so as to experience Paschal spiritual states, heavenly ones, he is more miserable than worldly people. Worldly people can somewhat understand when someone speaks to them about divine love. Those, however, who set off for heavenly love and higher joys, by turning also toward worldly joys (those not considered sinful), remain half way down the road like Lot’s wife (Genesis 19:26). Consequently, their hearts are as insensitive as stone, so much as to be scandalized even by the words "divine love," which they hear read from the books of the Church.
Elder Paisios
