Theologians at times call the divine an erotic force, sometimes love, and at other times that which is intensely long for and loved. Consequently, as an erotic force and as love, the divine itself is subject to movement; and being that which is intensely longed for and loved, it attracts to itself everything that is receptive of this force and love.
The divine erotic force also produces ecstasy, compelling those who love to belong not to themselves but to those whom they love. This is shown by superior beings through the care of inferiors, by those of equal stature who support each other and by those of inferior status who strive passionately and are converted to the divine.
-St. Maximos the Confessor
