times c. which done all these things shall be given us besides O that we had courage and resolution to perform the first part and faith enough practically to believe this latter 15. Sunday after Pentecost Of the Widows Son of Naim Luc. 7.11 page 388. see page 423 424. 16. Sunday after Pentecost Of the man cured of the Dropsie Luc. 14.1 page 306. Consider 1. And it came to pass when Jesus entered into the house of a certain Prince of the Pharisees upon the Sabboth to eat bread and they watched him Ponder here the goodness of Christ not refusing to eat and converse familiarly with his Enemies seeking thereby occasion to do them good and the perversness of the Pharisees in observing and watching him not to profit but to calumniate Do you observe our Lord in all his sayings and doings but so as to benefit your self and glorifie him and endeavour to demean your self so in all your exteriour comportment that you need not fear to be observed and taken notice of by all even your Enemies Consider 2. And behold there was a certain man before him that had a Dropsie Behold your self in this man and acknowledge with S. Augustine that you have a Conscience sick of the Dropsie S. Aug. 2. quaest Evang thirsting after terrene things the more you are indulgent to your self the more you nourish this disease Christ feels their pulse and temper before he cures this man saying Is it lawful to cure on the Sabboth but they were ashamed to discover their malignity openly and what e're they thought they held their peace But he taking him healed him and sent him away And to justifie himself appeals to their own Conscience what they would judge lawful in a less concern of their own Oxe or Ass Ps 21.7 Consider 3. When thou art invited to a Marriage sit not down in the first place c. but go sit down in the last place c. This as all other things that he taught Christ exercised himself he descended from the highest Heaven to the Womb of a poor and humble Virgin and all his life long chose for himself in all occasions that which was meanest and became for us the very Out-cast of the people Ponder well that Golden Sentence Every one that exalteth himself shall be humbled and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted First and Last are otherwise taken by God otherwise by the World the lower one is in the Worlds reckoning the higher he is in Gods account and on the contrary Christ was in the last Rank with the World but in the first with God If therefore you desire to be near Christ in Glory you must come close to him in Humility 17. Sunday after Pentecost Of the great Precept of Charity Mat. 22.34 page 403. Consider 1. A Doctor of Law asked of him which is the great Commandment in the Law Jesus said unto him Thou shalt love the Lord thy God from thy whole heart and with thy whole soul and with thy whole mind We love him with our whole heart soul and mind when we direct our thoughts affections senses and actions to him and when we let no created thing have any place in our heart but in order to him and detest whatsoever is displeasing to him Consider the Motives you have to this love 1. His benefits towards you in your Creation Conservation Redemption Sanctification Gifts of Grace and promise of Glory 2. His own infinite Amiableness his Bounty Riches Power Glory Beauty c. Rom. 8.35 Consider 2. This love must not content it self with bare affections wishes and desires it must pass to action and both do and suffer when occasion is for the service and honour of God that we may be able to say with the Apostle Who shall separate us from the charity of Christ tribulation or distress c. or danger or persecution or sword It is the property of true love to be communicative of it self and what it hath with its Beloved Give therefore freely to God your self and whatsoever you have and because you have nothing that you have not from him return it entire to him again by gratitude and faithful use in his service This is the greatest and first Commandment Consider 3. The second is like to this Thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thy self Our Neighbour is not one but every Child of Adam Friend and Enemy c. The Rule of our love is no other then our selves whatsoever therefore you would have done or not done to your self observe the same towards others out of love and for God and you have observed this Precept Our Motives are for that we are all Created to the same Image of God Redeemed with the same precious Blood of Christ Children of the same Heavenly Father called to the Inheritance of the same Kingdom c. Make it your whole study to have perfect Charity towards God and your Neighbour knowing that On these two Commandments depend the whole Law and Prophets 18. Sunday after Pentecost Of the Bed-rid let down from the Roof Mat. 9.1 page 412. see page 399 400. 19. Sunday after Pentecost Of the Invitement to the Wedding Mat. 22.1 page 419. see page 439 440. 20. Sunday after Pentecost Of the Princes Son restored to health Jo. 4.46 page 427. see page 394 395. 21. Sunday after Pentecost Of the Debtor of ten thousand Talents Mat. 28.23 page 435. Consider 1. There was one presented unto his Lord that owed him ten thousand Talents This is your self and every sinner there is no Debt so great as that of Sin think how great yours i And not having whence to repay it his Lord commanded that he should be sold We have nothing of our own to make satisfaction of and by sin we forfeit Grace Heaven God Soul and Body and inslave our selves to the Devil But that Steward falling down before him said have patience towards me and I will repay thee all Think how often God hath had patience with you you may truly say with the Prophet The Mercies of our Lord Thren 3.22 that I am not consumed Consider 2. And the Lord of that servant moved with pitty dismissed him and forgave him the debt How easily is God satisfied how great is his bounty who giveth more then is asked or could be hoped for He hath done the same and much more for you and hath not only freed you from the slavery of sin but also made you his Adopted Son and Heir of his Kingdom When that servant was gone forth he found one of his fellow servants that did owe him a hundred pence and laying hands upon him thratled him saying Repay what thou owest and notwithstanding the others humble entreaty went his way and cast him into prison till he repayed the debt How often do you the same in the petty injuries done to you Consider 3. Thou ungracious servant c. oughtest not thou also to have mercy upon thy fellow servant even as I had
your self first with all humility in the presence of God imagining that Christ expects you there ready to give you audience then kneeling down with profound reverence say that short Preparatory prayer of the Church Prevent we beseech thee O Lord our actions by thy Spirit assisting us and in hâ—ping forward prosecute them that all our prayer and work may begin always from thee and begun by thee may be ended Through Christ our Lord Amen or some other like Then make use of the first Preamble of Composition of Place and that being done beg of Almighty God grace suitable to the subject of your present Meditation After this enter upon the points or matter of your Meditation which must be prepared before hand and discourse upon them with your understanding examining with your self who what where by what means wherefore in what manner when and other general circumstances that offer themselves and in all of them procure now and then to stir up your will by pious Affections and Colloquies as often as there shall be occasion in which Affections and Colloquies because the chief fruit of prayer doth consist therefore we will treat of them in this place more at large Of Colloquies Colloquies are to be made as well through the whole course as at the end of Meditation to wit as often as the will is stirred up to love or hate to prosecute or to fly what is set before it according as it is informed by the understanding of the goodness or malice of the object And because we may divers ways conceive God in relation to our selves therefore the Colloquies are to be made sometimes as of a Subject to his Prince sometimes as of a Child to his Father at other times again as of the Spouse to her Beloved of Friend to Friend of a Criminal to his Judge c. now begging something now admiring now offering now congratulating now condoling as the present matter shall require And because there are many kinds of these affections it will not be amiss in this place to reherse some of them in particular in an Alphabetical order The Colloquie therefore may be framed by way of I. ACOVSATION Accusing your self for having been cause 1 Paral. 21.17 of Christs sufferings or of other evils saying with David Am not I he that commanded c. It is I that have sinned it is I that have done the evil c. Lord my God let thy hand be turned I beseech thee upon me and the like II. ADMIRATION Wondering at the Goodness Wisdome Power and other like Attributes of God O Lord our Lord Psal 8.2 how marvelous is thy Name O Lord of Hosts who is like to thee Thou art mighty O Lord Psal 88.9 and thy truth round about thee or the like III. AFFIRMATION Affirming for example that God is just great and dreadful that they are happy that serve him and the like Psal 118.137 Psal 46.3 Psa 64. â— Thou art Just O Lord and thy Judgement is right Because our Lord is high terrible a great King over all the earth Blessed is he whom thou hast chosen and taken he shall dwell in thy Courts IV. BENEDICTION Blessing God for hearing our prayers for having redeemed us and for other benefits which he hath bestowed upon us and inviting all creatures to do the same Blessed be God who hath not removed my prayer Ps 65.20 Luc. â—â— 66 and his mercy from me c. Blessed be our Lord God of Israel because he hath visited and wrought the redemption of his people All works of our Lord Dan. 3.57 bless ye our Lord praise and superexalt him for ever V. COMMINATION or threatning woe to your self unless you mend unless you obey Gods call c. Vnless you will be converted Psal 7.13 he shall shake his Sword be hath bent his bow and prepared it c. Vnderstand these things Psa 49.22 you that forget God least sometime he take you violently and there be none to deliver you VI. COMPASSION for Christs labours and sufferings I am sorry for thee my Brother Jonathas 2 Reg. 1.26 2 Reg 18.33 Rod. de Pas c. 8. exceeding beautiful and amiable Who would grant me that I might dye for thee I will not live without wound saith Saint Bonaventure because I see thee full of wound VII COMPLAINT Piously complaining as if God had left you Psal 1.1 How long O Lord wilt thou forget me unto the end how long dost thou turn away thy face from me Where are thine old mercies Ps 8850. Ps 8â—15 O Lord c. Why dost thou O Lord reject my prayer VIII COMPVNCTION and GRIEF for that by your sins you have been cause of Christs sufferings and of the scourges wherewith God doth chastize the world Jâ—â— 1.12 Psal 50.5 Take me up and east me into the Sea for I know that for me this tempest is upon you I do know mine iniquity and my sin is before me always IX CONFESSION Acknowledging the Benefits of God Eccli 51.1 and your own Infirmity I will confess to thee O Lord King and will praise thee God my Saviour I will confess to thy Name because thou art become my helper Psal 37.4 and protectour There is no health is my flesh c. my bones have no peace at the face of my stâ—s X. CONGRATVLATION with Christ for his victory over death with the Blessed Virgin for the glory of her Son and for her own Election Let us sing to our Lord Erod 15.1 Judith 15. â—0 Ecclesia in Missa for he is gloriously magnified c. Thou art the glory of Jerusalem thou the joy of Israel thou the honour of our people c. We give thee thanks for thy great glory XI CONSVLTATION Consulting between our Lord and your self what you are to do for him what to return for his beneftis Job 7.20 Ps 115.3 What shall I do to thee O Keeper of men What shall I render to our Lord for all things that he hath rendered to me XII DESIRE of heavenly and everlasting goods How beloved are thy Tabernacles Psal 83.2 O Lord of Hosts My soul coveteth and fainteth unto the Courts of our Lord. Psal 41.2 Even as the Hart defireth after the Fountains of waters so doth my soul desire after thee O God I desire thee a thousand times Bern. 〈◊〉 Jub my Jesus when will you come when will you make me ioyful when will you give me my fill of you XIII DETESTATION Abominating your own sins and sluggishness Psal 118.163 Psal 25.2 Ps 72.25 I have hated iniquity and abhorred it I have hated the Church of the Malignant and with the impious I will not sit What is to me in Heaven and besides thee what would I upon the earth XIV DOVBT Demanding of your self what you ought to do and what will become of you seeing all are to be so rigorously judged Psal 138.7 Psal 88.49
your self to expect our Lord to trust in him and the like Expect our Lord Ps 26.14 Psal 42.5 do manfully and let thy heart take courage and expect thou our Lord. Why art thou sorrowful O my soul and why doest thou trouble me Hope in God because yet will I confess to him XXXV SOLLICITATION As it were urging God to give you speedy aid God my God Psal 21.2 have respect to me why hast thou forsaken me Incline thine ear to me Psal 30.3 Ps 43.23 make hast to deliver me Arise why sleepest thou O Lord Arise and expell us not to the end XXXVI ZEAL Defiring that the glory of God may be propagated Psal 78.1 Ps 73.10 and his enemies humbled O God the Gentiles are come into thine inheritance they have polluted thy holy Temple How long O God shall the enemy upbraid Psal 67.2 the adversary provoke thy Name for ever Let God arise and let his enemies be dispersed These or other like affections you may make use of for your Colloquies and these or other such Versicles taken out of Scripture may perhaps help you to enter with greater facility into your Colloquies which afterwards you may prosecute more at large as your affection shall suggest and the Unction of the Divine Spirit shall teach you Manual And although it be expedient as hath been said to break into these Colloquies at any time during the Meditation yet this same is to be done with more earnest endeavour and exactness in the end sometimes calling upon the Eternal Father sometimes upon the Son at other times upon the Holy Ghost Sometimes also upon the Blessed Virgin our Angel Guardian the Saints our Patrons imploring their aid and intercession giving thanks c. as the present matter shall require Unto this Colloquy is to be ioyned some Vocal Prayer as the Pater Noster if the Colloquy be directed to God the Father Anima Christi sanctifica me The Soul of Christ sanctifie me if to the Son Veni Creator if to the Holy Ghost Ave Maria or some like to the Blessed Virgin or to the Saints It is a commendable practice of many having ended their Meditation to note down in brief in some little book for that end their good purposes and the chief lights which God communicated unto them in their prayer lest otherwise they come to be fruitless for as it sufficeth not for the bringing forth of fruit that good seed be cast into the ground unless it be kept and fostered in the bosome of the earth so neither will it be available for our souls spiritual good onely to have heard the voice or word of God in prayer But as Christ saith Blessed are they that hear the Word of God and keep it Luke 11.28 The Morning Entertainment O God my God to thee I watch from the morning light On the Feast of All-Saints Of Holy Communion Consider Christ in the Eucharist as God and Head of all Saints Ps 62.2 I Magin your self among the Blessed companies of Saints in Heaven contemplating the divine face of God and consider 1. How greaâ— is the Glory Riches Beauty and Majesty of that infinite Essence Thousands of thousands minister to him and ten thousand hundred thousands assist him saith Daniel Dan. 7.10 Think how great is his Power All things whatsoever our Lord would he hath doâ—â— in heaven in earth in the sea and in all the depths How great his Wisdom Great is our Lord Ps 134.6 and great is his strength and of his wisdom there is no number How great his Immensity which is higher thâ—n heaven Ps 146.5 Job 11.8 deâ—peâ— then hell longer then the earth and broader then the sea And so of his other divine Attributes Prov. 8.31 Consider 2. This so great a Majesty and Head of all the Saints whose memory you celebrate this day disdaineth not to enter the cottage of your soul and even desireth it himself according to that My delights are to be with the children of men not for that he stands in need of you who are but dust and ashes but to enrich your poverty with his infinite treasures Think therefore with your self what you are and who he is and cry out with the Prophet What is man that thou art mindful of him Ps 8.5 or the soâ— of man that thou visitest him Amos 4.12 Consider 3. You must diligently prepare your soul against the coming of so great a Guest according to that Be prepared to meet thy God O Israel Wherefore cleanse it first with the greatest purity that possibly you are able and not onely from Mortal but also from all Venial Sin For Blessed are the clean of heart Matt. 5.8 saith Christ for they shall see God Then enkindle in your self an ardent love that so you may deserve to keep him long with you according to that If any love me c. we will come to him Jo. 14.23 and will make abode with him Morn Ent. To day I shall dine with the King Esth 5.12 Note The first Sunday after All-Saints Of Holy Communion Consider Christ in the Eucharist as King ¶ This and the other Meditations on the Sundays of this Moneth are to be placed between Week and Week as they come in their turn Ps 2.6 COnsider 1. Christ is truly a King the King of Kings and Lord of Lords and not onely of one Province or parcel of earth but of all Heaven and Earth of Men and Angels I am appointed King by him over Sion c. and not for a time onely as other Kings upon earth but for ever and evermore Exod. 15.18 Wherefore all duties services and tribute which Subjects owe to their King are much more due from you to Christ See whether you have perform'd them hitherto or no. 1 Paral. 29.1 Consider 2. What you would do if some earthly Prince were to come to your house how carefully would you have it swept cleansed adorned and set in order lest there should be any thing that might offend the Prince's eye How much more ought the house of your Soul to be adorned which the King of Heaven will vouchsafe this day to enter in the Holy Eucharist for as David saith The habitation is not prepared for man but for God And if those women mentioned in Esther prepared themselves a whole year to appear but once before the King Assuerus Esth 2.12 For six moneths they were anointed with oyl of myrtle saith the Scripture and other six moneths they used certain paintings and sweet spices how much greater care ought to be taken to appear worthily before Christ our Lord Ps 44.11 Consider 3. In regard you are poor and have not any thing in your Soul fit to entertain such a Royal Guest beseech him to send before-hand as great Princes are wont to do furniture and provision worthy of himself Besides if you desire to be gracious in his sight you
intollerable and lasted all that night and day fellowing for about twenty hours together Speake what affection shall suggest Of our Lords Buriall Mat. 27. COnsider 1. After our Lord was dead his sacred body was taken down from the Cross with great devotion and teares by Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathia who laid it in the Mothers armes whereby that of the Canticles was fullfilled Cant. 1.13 A Buadle of Myrrhe my beloved is to me he shall abide between my brests Think what expressions of griefe and sorrow what sighs and tears passed from her Ponder what was said and done at that time by her and her devout companions See that your beloved Lord be also to you a bundle of Myrrhe and that by frequent contemplation of his Passion you lodge him in your bosome and heart 2 Cor 4.10 Consider 2. Griefe and love having acted their parts they embaulm the sacred Corps and wrap it up in a clean winding sheet Our Lord is delighted with cleanliness even in his grave that you might learn diligently to cleanse your heart as often as you receive him in the Holy Eucharist Our Lord will have his Mystical members embaulmed especially with the Myrrhe of Mortification that with the Apostle Allways bearing about in our body the Mortification of Jesus the life also of Jesus may be manifested in our bodys Think how you may put this in practise Tit. 2.13 Consider 3. Our Lord being buried every one betake themselves to their own home for they were not permitted by the keepers to remain at the Sepulcher Think in what solitude the B. Mother and other devout persons were in and how they gave themselves wholy to prayer Expecting the blessed hope and advent of the glory of the great God The B. Virgin doubtless comforted herself with that of the Psalm At evening shall weeping abide and in the morning gladness Ps. 29.6 Doe you likewise in Desolation have recourse to prayer and learn to put your trust in God Things to be observed concerning the Meditations of the Mysteries after our Lords Resurrection 1 Cor. 6.17 THe Meditations upon the Mysteries after our Lords Resurrection appertain to the Unitive way This being an Uniting of our will with the divine will of God by way of affection maketh that our will as it were going forth of her self layeth hold on the goodness of God represented unto it and adhereth unto him and by this adhesion is united with him according to that of the Apostle He that cleaâ—eth to our Lord is one Spirit Hence this Unitive way hath diverse affections properly belonging unto it which we may make use of in the ensuing meditations The chiefe are these following 1. Admiration of Gods Majesty whom we contemplat and of his Attributes and Perfections 2. Joy and content for that God is so absolutly perfect in himself good to others and so admirable in his works 3. Praise and thanksgiving for his gifts and benefits with desire of seeing and enjoying him and of honouring and obeying him 4. Zeale of Gods Glory and good of Souls wishing that all the world might come to know love and serve him 5. Trust in his Goodness and Providence together with a filial respect standing in fear of being separated from him or of committing any thing which may justly offend so great a Majesty and bewailing all the sins whereby we had incurred at any time his just indignation 6. Desire of these Heavenly things we contemplat so that whatsoever is upon earth may seem but durt unto us while we look up to heaven saying with the Prophet How beloved are thy tabernacles Ps. 83.2 O Lord of hoasts my Soul coveteth and fainteth unto the Courts of our Lord. And Ps. 41.2 Even as the hart desireth after the fountains of waters so doth my Soul desire after thee O God 2 Cor. 3.18 By these and such like affections let us endeavor to obtain that Beholding the glory of our Lord c. We may be transformed as the Apostle speaketh into the same image from glory unto glory that is that we may become like unto him by the union of our wills increasing dayly more and more in the knowledge of him till at length passing from the imperfect clarity of this life and pilgrimage we arrive to the perfect clarity and glory of our native Country and Beatificall Vision Rise thou that sleepest and arise from the dead and Christ will illuminate thee Ephe. 5.14 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as our Resurrection Apoc. 3.17 COnsider 1. The manner wherewith Christ raised his body out of the Sepulcher of deformed rendering it glorious Ponder what a difference there is between a body that is dead pale wan destitute of all sense and motion and the same when it is invested with the array and endowments of glory The same difference is between the Soul in Sin and in the state of Grace and almost the same between tepidity and fervor For in the state of Tepidity the Soul is as it were in a slumber and void of all heroical motion she is insensible of things appertaining to God and being possessed with innumerable phantasies pursueth vaine trifles and dreams instead of reall and solid goods She thinks herself in a good state when in truth she is like that man in the Apocalyps miserable and poor and blinde and naked Jo. 11.25 Consider 2. Christ is ready to raise us out of these miserable states therefore he saith I am the resurrection and the life To wit the cause and Author of both and as well of the Soul as of the body O what a benefit it is and how infinitly to be valued to be raised from the death of Sin and grave of Tepidity and to be placed in the cleare light of the Childeren of God that walk and work with fervor The same will Christ bestow upon you this day in the Holy Eucharist if you hinder him not For therefore he is called the bread of life Jo. 6.35 Ibid. v. 40. S. Tho. alii and as we owe unto him the Resurrection of our bodies in the last day so doe we now the Resurrection and reviving of our Soules Colos 3.1 Consider 3. The signes of our rising with Christ are to seek and mind the things that are above not the things that are upon earth So the Apostle If you be risen with Christ seek the things that are above c. Seek therefore and affect only heavenly things Rom. 6.9 and as Christ Rising again from the dead now dyeth no more So you being raised from the state of Tepidity to Fervor have a care you fall not into a relapse Of our Lords Resurrection COnsider 1. There having now passed time sufficient to evidence the certainty of his death on the third day early in the morning our Lord hastened to bring forth the Holy Fathers our of Limbus to comfort his B. Mother and desolate Disciples and Illustrate
the whole world with the rayes of his glory What Jubily were the Holy Fathers in at that time when they saw that Blessed hour come of their delivery which they had longed for so many ages Free O Lord in like manner my Soul from the Lions mouth and from the deep lake and let not my Enemies The World the Flesh and the Devil ever domineere over me Consider 2. How when Christs Soul was come out of Limbus to the body in the Sepulcher he shewed it to the Holy Fathers as it lay pale and wan all mangled and disfigured that they might see how much he had suffered for them and at what rate he had redeemed them Then he reunited it to the Soul and that of David was fullfilled Our Lord hath reigned Ps. 92.1 he hath put on beauty Our Lord hath put on strength and hath girded himself For he took upon him the four properties of a glorifyed body 1. Of Clarity rendring it brighter then the Sun it self 2. Of Subtility to penetrate the Sepulcher and whatsoever other corporal substance 3. Of Agility to move itself to the remotest places in a moment 4. Of Impassibility so as to be incapable of dying or suffering any more Being thus crowned with glory he might say to his Eternal Father with David Thou hast turned my mourning into joy unto me thou hast cut my sackcloth Ps. 29.12 and hast compassed me with gladness Apoc. 5.12 Consider 3. How the Eternal Father congratulateth with his son as also doe the Angels of Heaven and the Fathers of Limbus for the reunion of his body all crying out as with one voice The Lamb that was slain is worthy to receive power and divinity and wisdom and strength and honour and glory and benediction Joyne you with them and say This is the day which our Lord made Ps. 117.24 let us rejoyce and be glad therein Learn hence that the Tribulations of the Just are but short but their glory everlasting Rom. 8.17 and that if we suffer with Christ we shall also be glorifyed with him Of our Lords Apparitions and how he appeared first to his Blessed Mother Act. 1.3 COnsider 1. Christ three different ways manifested his Resurrection 1. By Saints who arose in their bodies and appeared to many 2. By Angels at the Sepulcher 3. In his own person shewing himself alive in many arguments for fourty days appearing c. After the same manner he is wont to manifest himself to his devout servants by spiritual men by their Angel Guardians and immediatly by himself He that loveth me c. I will love him Jo. 14.11 and will manifest my self to him Love him therefore that he may manifest himself also to you 2 Cor. 1.7 Consider 2. Christ first of all appeared to his B. Mother according to the pious beliefe of the Church that she who had drunk most of the bitter chalice of his Passion should be the first in partaking the joy of his Resurrection As you are partakers of the Passions so shall you be of the consolation also She did most certainly believe and most ardently expect the hour of his Resurrection and said with David Arise my glory Ps. 56.9 arise psalter and harp and therefore she was not frustrated of her desire that you might learn both fervently to desire heavenly things and withall patiently to expect the time Habec 2.3 If he shall make tarriance expect him because coming he will come and he will not slack and will recompence his delay Consider 3. What joy possessed the Mothers heart when she beheld her son What holy embracings passed between them What was said or done on both sides Doubtless the Holy Fathers Adam Abraham Moyses David and others did congratulate with the Virgin and say Thou Daughter art blessed of our Lord for that by thee we have partaken the fruit of life Ecl. in Off. E. V. Do you likewise congratulate with her from your heart and say with the Church Rejoyce thou Queen of Heaven Alleluia because whom thou didst deserve to beare Alleluia Regina Coeli is risen againe as he said Alleluia Pray unto God for us Alleluia Angels appear to the Women at the Sepulcher Mar. 16.1 Jo. 20.1 ANd very early the first of the Sabboths they come to the monument Consider 1. The devotion of these three women 1. They brought Spices not sparing any cost to performe the last Obsequies of their love in annoyling the corps of their Lord. 2. For the same purpose they rise very early and when it was yet dark Learn to spare no labour nor cost in the service of God according to your ability and that as the wife man sayeth Sap. 16.28 We ought to prevent the Sun to blesse God and at the rising of the light to adore him See whether you be so early in the morning employed in the Divine Service Consider 2. And they said one to an other who shall role us back the stone from the dore of the monument Among their pious discourses in the way they were in care about removing the stone But no sooner were they come but they saw the stone roled back So we fancy to our selves many difficulties in the way of vertue and perfection which notwithstanding when we come to practise Allmighty God doth facilitate unto us and take away And entering into the monument they saw a young man sitting on the right hand God rewardeth the Womens devotion with the vision of an Angel And his countenance was as lightening and his garment as Snow Mat. 28.3 Who would not wish to dwell with such happy company Galat. 6.14 1 Cor. 2.2 Consider 3. Be not dismayed you seek Jesus of Nazareth that was crucified Among the titles of our Lord now in glory is also ranked that of being Crucified that you might learn with the Apostle not to glory saving in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ c. And even not to know any thing but Jesus Christ and him Crucified Think what joy the holy Women were in to hear that Christ was risen and how they went forth quickly out of the monument with feare and great joy Mat. 28.8 running to tell his Disciples Christ appeareth to Mary Magdalen Jo. 20.11 MAry stood at the Monument without weeping Consider the fervorous love of this pious Woman and Constancy in persevering still at the Sepulcher whereas the others returned back whereby she deserved to see our Lord before the rest for as S. Gregory upon this place saith Greg. hom 25. in Evang. The Vertue value or worth of a good work is perseverance Learn hence how to seek our Lord when by sin he is taken from you or when by desolation he withdraweth himself you must doe it with sighs teares and ardent love whereby you will come to find him whom your Soul loveth Cant. 3.4 Consider 2. Angels appear unto Mary and aske her Woman why weepest thou but
more excellent then God Man as to his body is no better then dirt and dust a sack of dung and meat for worms As to his Soul he is the very sink of sin an Abyss of ignorance and Myrrour of Inconstancy Think how slender is his ability how little it is he knoweth what miseries he is subject unto so that Job said with reason What is man that thou magnifiest him Job 7.17 or why settest thou thy heart toward him Gen. 41.40 1 Reg. 9. Ps 77.70 Consider 2. On the other side what God is and how great is his Majesty Glory Riches Beauty Power c. and what a dignity it is to be his adoptive Son If it was esteemed a great and wonderful thing in Joseph the Patriarch to be taken out of prison and made Lord of Egypt in Saul from following of Asses to be annointed King and in David from following after the Ewes with young to be assumed to a Kingdome How much more is it to be admired that a lump of earth should be raised to dignity of being the Son of God and that the harbourer of worms should become the companion of Angels Ps 112.7 8 Consider 3. How much you owe to God for having so highly exalted you Raising up the needy from the earth and lifting up the poor out of the dung to place you with the Princes of his heavenly Court O unspeakable honour you deserve not the name of Gods servant Leo Serm. 1. de Nativit and you are made his Son Acknowledge therefore O Christian saith S. Leo your dignity and being made partaker of the Divine Nature do not by unworthy behaviour degenerate to your former baseness Of the benefit of Adoption Part 2. COnsider 1. The admirable effects of this benefit 1. It puts us under Gods special providence and protection so as to bring us up govern maintain and defend us as a loving Father doth his Children Whence David said Ps 102.13 As a father hath compassion of his children so hath our Lord compassion on them that fear him c. And by Isaie he promiseth yet more Why Is 49.15 can a woman forget her Infant that she will not have pity on the son of her womb And if she should forget yet will not I forget thee O what a security it is to be protected by such a Father If God stand for us who will be against us 2 Pet. 1.4 Consider 2. How by this adoption we are made partakers of the Divine Nature and in a manner Gods according to that of the Psalmist I said you are Gods and the sons of the highest all Ps 81. â— for it makes us partakers in some degree of Gods perfections and excellencies as of his Wisdome Fortitude Constancy Justice Charity and other Attributes which in him are by nature and are communicated to us as his children by grace Learn therefore greatly to esteem such a benefit that makes you like to God himself Rom. 8.17 Consider 3. How it makes us also Heirs of the Kingdome of Heaven according to that of the Apostle And if sons heirs also heirs truly of God and co-heirs of Christ O what a happiness Look therefore upon heaven as your own by inheritance Say with that Philosopher Corn. ad Rom. c. 1â— 14. I am born to greater things then to make my self a slave to my own flesh Direct your thoughts and cares thither where you are sure to inherit endless treasures contemn all mortal things and give your mind only to such as are truly great and everlasting and as a certain holy man was wont to say In Vita P. Balt Alvarez Do not degenerate from the high thoughts of the sons of God Of the benefit of Adoption Part 3. Deut. 32.6 COnsider the several Obligations we have by reason of this benefit The first is of loving tenderly and from our whole heart so loving a Father For if children of this world do naturally love their Parents of whom they only receive their corporal substance and earthly goods how much more are you bound to love God from whom all proceeds that is good and who hath possessed thee and made and created thee Exod. 20.12 The second Obligation is of honouring him as our Father that is reverencing him with exteriour worship and serving him what we can with all respect and duty Honour thy Father and thy Mother that thou mayst be long lived upon the earth And our Lord himself by Malachy saith And if I be the father Mal. 1.6 where is my honour Mat. 5.48 Ephes 5.1 The third Obligation is of imitating God as children do their Parents Therefore Christ said Be you perfect as also your heavenly father is perfect And S. Paul Be followers of God as most dear children You must therefore imitate his Sanctity and Immunity from sin his Charity Mercy Justice and other Virtues Lev. 11.45 You shall be holy saith our Lord because I am holy Lev. 19.3 The fourth Obligation is of fearing ever to offend our Father according to that of Leviticus Let every one fear his Father and Mother And if children of this world fear to offend their Parents that they may not be disinherited by them how much more ought we to fear God Take heed that it be not ever objected to you Is 1.2 I have brought up children and exalted them but they have despised me You will despise him if you prefer your own will and desires before his Counsels and Commands Of the benefit of the H. Sacraments Is 12.3 COnsider 1. The wonderful care your Heavenly Father hath of you for to conserve you in the grace of his Adoption he hath provided you with many means for which you owe thanks and gratitude the chief of them are the seven Sacraments which as so many Fountains he would have to flow with several gifts of Grace in all abundance according to the diversity of our necessities so as to make good that of the Prophet You shall draw waters in joy out of the Saviours Fountains Ps 83.5 Consider 2. The infinite Wisdome of God in most fitly ordaining each Sacrament for that man might be born into a spiritual life he instituted Baptisme to grow up and be strengthened in the same Confirmation to be nourished Holy Eucharist That he might have a remedy and certain cure against his spiritual diseases Penance That he might be armed for his last Combat Extreme Unction Lastly for the right discharging of several states and duties in his Church he instituted H. Order and Matrimony Truly blessed are they that dwell in thy house O Lord who doest so abundantly provide for them that fear thee Is 55.1 Consider 3. These Fountains of Grace 1. Are open to all none are excluded though never so poor Whence the Prophet cryeth out All ye that thirst come to the waters and you that have no silver make hast buy and eat 2. They are
If it be your lot to serve God in the nature of Salt see that you be first throughly refined and purged from worldly affections by the fire of Divine Charity that you may be such your self as you desire to make others Consider 2. How excellently Christ performed this proper effect of Salt who to purge and preserve us from sin spent himself wholly upon us in a manner melting away like salt and communicated to our actions of themselves insipid and of no worth the divine savour and value of his precious Merits Moreover by his Example and Doctrine he hath made Persecutions which are bitter of themselves sweet and pleasant unto us Permit your self therefore to be seasoned with the Salt of his Wisdom and Example Levit. 2.13 what Sacrifice soever thou offerest thou shalt season it with salt saith our Lord that is with the Merits and Example of Christ Mat. 5.14 Consider 3. But if the salt loose his virtue c. it is good for nothing any more but to be cast forth and trodden of men In the same manner will God use those Preachers that have no virtue or efficacy either of Example or Doctrine to season the life and manners of others but vanish and moulder away by pride vain glory and affection to worldly things Rom. 1.21 They are become vain in their cogitations saith the Apostle and their foolish heart hath been darkened See that you do not at any time come to this pass Of those words of Christ Mat. 5.15 You are the Light of the World c. Dan. 12.3 COnsider 1. Apostolical men are to be not only Salt to purge the hearts of men from sin but also the light of the world to enlighten others and direct them into the way of all Virtue This is a Divine Office and most acceptable to God according to that They that be learned shall shine as the brightness of the Firmament and they that instruct many to Justice as stars unto perpetual eternities 'T is the property of light both to enlighten and to give heat See therefore how you do already or may hereafter perform both Jo. 1.9 Consider 2. How Christ was the true Light which lighteneth every man that cometh into the world by word and example and by the interiour Rays of his Grace Besides ponder how light although it pass through unclean places is nothing defiled thereby So Christ and all Apostolical men although they converse and deal with sinners yet partake not with them in their sins Baruc. 3.25 Consider 3. Those words of Christ Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel Where also those are reprehended who imploy not themselves in enlightening their Neighbour according to the Talent they have received but rather hide their light in their bosome either out of pusillanimity or sluggishness Do you rather according to the charge God hath committed unto you be careful to shine forth to all like unto the Stars of which Baruch speaketh They were called and they said Here we are and they have shined to him with chearfulness that made them Of Holy Communion Because with thee there is propitiation and for thy Law I have expected thee O Lord. Ps 129.4 Consider Christ as our Propitiation Luc. 18.13 COnsider 1. That you are that Publican of whom it is read to day in the Gospel for by reason of your many sins you deserve not to lift up your eyes to Heaven but ought rather to knock your breast and to cry out continually with him O God be propitious to me a sinner Call to mind the sins of your life past and you will see how fitly that saying agreeth with you 1 Jo. 2.2 Consider 2. You have cause of great confidence in regard that after so many sins you have the Judges Son to stand for you and more then that have the Judge himself Christ our Lord your Propitiator For he is the Propitiation for our sins nor for ours only but for the whole worlds And although he be always and every where merciful yet never more then in the H. Eucharist where that he might be propitious unto us he would even be incorporated with us That which covered the Ark of the Covenant in the Old Law Exod. 25.20 was called the Propitiatory much more therefore is the Eucharist our Propitiatory having under it the Living Ark of the true Covenant between God and us Levit. 23.28 Consider 3. The Jews were forbidden to do any servile work upon the day of Propitiation No servile work shall you do in the time of this day because it is a day of Propitiation Sin is properly a servile work Amen Amen I say to you Jo. 8.34 that every one which committeth sin is the servant of sin saith our Lord Abstain therefore from sin even the least especially upon daies of Communion and with the Prophet say to our Lord when he cometh For thy Name O Lord Ps 24.11 thou wilt be propitious to my sin for it is much Of our Lords Prayer Mat. 6.9 c. Part 1. COnsider how Christ on the Mount like a great Master of a spiritual life among other things taught his Disciples also the manner of Prayer which because we use daily to the end we may do it with the greater fruit and spiritual gust it will be to good purpose to ponder each word apart Our Father which art in Heaven In the Old Testament God was ordinarily called the Lord in the New he is pleased to be called Father and that by his own Vassals He is Father 1. By Title of Creation 2. Of Conservation 3. Of Adoption See therefore that you prove a Child worthy of such a Father Besides it is said Our not mine alone that you should understand that all men are your Brethren and to be loved by you as such Who art in Heaven as in the Seat of Majesty though he is every where by his presence that you should raise your thoughts thither as to your Native Country flowing with all manner of riches and delights Is 6.3 Ps 113.9 Hallowed by thy Name This is that which we ought to seek in the first place to wit the honour and glory of God that he may be worshipped and loved of all and honoured by the Saintity of our lives Therefore stir up often these affections in your self say with the Seraphins Holy holy holy the Lord God of Hosts and with David Not to us O Lord not to us but to thy Name give the glory Apoc. 5.10 Thy Kingdom come That is let thy Kingdom come to us in this life by Grace in the other by Glory for God doth truly reign in the Just by Grace according to that Thou hast made us to our God a Kingdom See whether God or not rather the world reigâ—eth in your heart and affection Of our Lords Prayer Mat. 6.9 c. Part 2. COnsider the rest of the
labour in the pursuit and increase of Vertue 1. The will of God This is the will of God your Sanctification And Be you perfect as also your heavenly Father is perfect Mat. 5.48 2. The name of a Christian whose profession is Sanctity and therefore Christians are called by the Apostle An Elect Generation a Kingly Priesthood a Holy Nation 1 Pet. 2.9 c. 3. The Examples of Saints of both Sexes and of all conditions and callings whereby the great St. Augustine encouraged himself saying Cannot you do what such and such to wit young Youths and tender Virgins have done before you 4. The greatnesse of the reward Be glad and rejoyce Matt. 5.12 for your reward is very great in Heaven Consider 3. The many helps which God hath afforded you for your Spiritual Profit 1. His Divine Word declared unto you in Holy Scripture in Sermons in pious Books which inform your Understanding and inflame your Will towards Vertue 2. The assistance of divine Grace always ready at hand to begin prosecute and perfect any good work 3. The holy Sacraments instituted by Christ to beget us to a Spiritual Life and to maintain nourish and strengthen us in the same 4. The Life Merits and Passion of our Saviour Jo. 14.6 Tit. 2.14 who is our way verity and life And who gave himself for us that he might redeem us c. and cleanse to himself a people acceptable a pursuer of good works Of the Impediments of our End Duty Or of SIN and first Of the Sin of Lucifer and his Angels WE must first take away the Impediments which draw us from our End and Duty and then procure the supplies of Vertue to attain it Now the onely let which debarreth us from God is Sin the which how detestable it is unto him and how greatly deserving punishment you may learn by the fall first of Lucifer then of Adam Ezech. 28.12 Consider therefore 1. In what glory Lucifer with the other Angels was created for of him is understood that of Ezechiel Thou the signet of similitude full of wisdom and perfect of beauty thou wast in the delicacies of the Paradise of God Every precious stone thy covering Sardius Topatius c. These precious stones or ornaments were 1. Pure Spirituality without any admixture of a body 2. Immortality 3. Wonderful Subtlety of Wit and Understanding 4. An universal knowledge of all inferiour things 5. Might and power above all other creatures 6. Free-will and command over his own acts 7. Eminent Sanctity proceeding from the gifts of Grace 8. He was an Inhabitant of the Impyreal Heaven 2 Pet. 2.4 Consider 2. How in a moment he lost and obscured all these gifts of Nature and Grace elevating himself by pride above himself and as all Sinners do affecting what was unlawful for him See how he was immediately after his Sin cast down headlong into Hell with his Companions without hopes of mercy Ponder those words of St. Peter If God spared not Angels sinning but with ropes of Hell being drawn into Hell delivered them to be tormented c. how much more us miserable wretches Consider 3. and apply these things to your self See 1. What gifts and benefits you have received of God 2. How you have abused them even against God himself 3. The Angels sin was but one yours innumerable in thought word and deed Admire lament implore mercy c. Of the Sin of our first Parents in Paradise COnsider 1. The most happy state wherein Adam was created by God 1. He was created to the similitude of God himself and endowed with Free-will 2. He was then Immortal and not subject to any miseries 3. He had an infused knowledge of all natural things 4. He was plentifully stored with the gifts of divine Grace 5. His inferiour appetite was perfectly subject to Reason by means of Original Justice 6. Nothing could be added to the delights of Paradise wherein he was placed nothing more could be wished 7. And lastly from a Paradise on earth he was to pass immediately to that of Heaven not by death but by transmigration How happy had his posterity been if they might have continued in that blessed state Gen. 3.19 Consider 2. How being forbidden to eat of one certain tree notwithstanding by the perswasion of the Devil and the enticements of his Wife he transgressed the command of God and was thereupon despoiled of the ornaments of Grace and strucken with that dreadful sentence Dust thou art and into dust thou shalt return What miseries hath this one mans sin brought unto us all and yet this transgression at the first sight seemeth but small and in a light matter Eccli 5.8 9. Consider 3. How much heavier judgement and punishment do you deserve at Gods hands who have so often and for such trifles transgressed his Law You should long since have been cast not as Adam out of Paradise but out of the world who have so often provoked the Lord of the world and yet he hath expected you hitherto to do pennance Do it therefore out of hand and slack not to be converted to our Lord and defer not from day to day for his wrath shall come suddenly saith Ecclesiasticus and in the time of vengeance he will destroy thee Of the Grievousness of Mortal Sin For the Punishments due unto it 1. Part. COnsider 1. God is most Just in inflicting punishments which notwithstanding he always doth below our deserts as the Divines speak though on the contrary his rewards are above our merits Ponder therefore the greatnesse of the offence by the grievousnesse of the punishment due to every Sin Enter with your imagination into Hell and consider attentively what God hath prepared there even for one Mortal Sin Contemplate those fiery furnaces those torrents of Sulphure the gnashing of teeth and howling of the damned and the like and reflect that all this is to last for ever without any hopes of releasement And which of you saith Isaie can dwell with everlasting beats Is 33.14 Matt. 10.28 Consider 2. What a folly it were to offend a Prince by whom you knew you were to be most cruelly tortured upon the rack How much more then to offend God that can destroy both soul and body into Hell And if so great punishment be due to one Mortal Sin though even that cometh short of its deserts what an excesse of torments will be due to your many sins Look back upon the days of your youth and think what had become of you if you had died immediately after such or such a Sin and acknowledge so many distinct favours of God towards you as you have committed sins after which you were not cast presently into Hell Say therefore with the Prophet I will confess to thee Ps 85.12 13. O Lord my God c. because thy mercy is great upon me and thou hast delivered my soul out of the lower hell Consider 3. How much
From this forgetfulnesse of death proceed all our Evils Wherefore whensoever you see a dead Corps or Scull imagine that of Ecclesiasticus to be spoken to you Be mindful of my judgement for such will also be thine to me yesterday and to thee to day Wherefore be ever preparing your self and live as one that is a dying S. Hieron Corn. in Eccli c. 7. For He will easily contemn all things that alwayes imagines himself a dying man Of preparing against Death For those that are in Health 1. Part. COnsider 1. With what diligence men are wont to prepare themselves for a long Voyage for example to the Indies and if they are but to crosse the Sea how carefully do they watch the wind and provide lest the time of embarking find them unprepared We ought to be much more sollicitous for our departure out of this life whence we are to go into an everlasting happinesse or misery Therefore Christ doth often inculcate to us Be ready Luc. 12.40 for at the hour you think not of the Son of man will come and the like Consider 2. The Preparation consisteth chiefly in this point that the Soul at her departure whensoever it shall happen be found free from all Mortal and as much as may be also from Venial Sin so that it may have no hinderance in going strait to Heaven Wherefore examine your self see whether you be conscious of any thing that may stop your passage to Heaven if you were now to dye and put your self in that state which you would wish your self to dye in Aug. l. de gen con Man c. 28. and strive to persever therein for you may chance to dye suddenly and few become better in time of sicknesse The Sinner as St. Augustine saith hath also this punishment inflicted upon him that when he cometh to dye he is unmindful of himself who while he lived was forgetful of God Wherefore while you are in health neglect not your self Consider 3. What things in particular are wont to cause much comfort to dying persons Such are to have suffered much for Christ to have been given to the mortification of the flesh and abnegation of self-will to have been devout to the Blessed Virgin and the Saints and the like Wherefore apply your self vigorously even now to these things Cass l. 5. c. 28. Happy was that holy man who could say on his death-bed I have never done my own will neither have I taught any one what I have not first practised my self Of preparing against Death For the Sick 2. Part. Tob. 12.13 COnsider 1. Sicknesse is usually the Messenger of Death Therefore let a man foresee what may be expedient for him against the time of Sicknesse that so he may make a more secure and happy end Let him then in the first place acknowledge that Sicknesse and Pain are gifts of a most loving Father and sent him either to take away the rust of Sin or for trial of his Vertue and increase of Glory according to that saying Because thou wast acceptable to God it was necessary temptation should prove thee And therefore let him also give God thanks that by means of Sicknesse he hath both warning and time to dispose himself for Death Consider 2. What the Sick man is chiefly to do in order to the disposing himself 1. To cleanse himself of all Sin by Confession if he can General 2. To offer himself to God wholly resigned for life or death as it shall best please him 3. To foresee such occasions wherein perhaps he may come to suffer either through the vexation of his sicknesse or by carelesnesse of his tenders and animate himself to suffer all with courage 4. To procure good Books to be often read to him 5. Now and then to inflame himself with Jaculatory Prayers 6. Often to call to mind Christ's Passion 7. Diligently to recommend himself to the Blessed Virgin and the Saints his Patrons 8. To make now and then acts of Faith Hope Charity Contrition and other such like Consider 3. Danger increasing he is timely to demand the last Sacraments that so he may receive them with greater devotion Then let him dilate his heart towards the happy meeting of his Spouse Behold the Bridegroom cometh go ye forth to meet him Matt. 25.6 Let him yield himself up wholly to his Lord God saying with Christ Luc. 23.46 Ps 141.8 Father into thy hands I commend my spirit or with David Bring forth my soul out of prison to confess to thy Name Of the Particular Judgement 1. Part. 2 Cor. 5.10 COnsider 1. At the hour of Death all men are to be judged That every one may receive the proper things of the body according as he hath done either good or evil Ponder the terrour of this Judgement First in respect of the Persons that are to be Actors in it He that is to sit Judge is infinitely Wise whom you cannot deceive infinitely Powerful whom you cannot resist infinitely Just who cannot be wrought to favour and lastly of Supream Authority from whom you cannot appeal The Devils will be at hand as Accusers and if we have deserved evil even our own Angel-Guardians There also our own Conscience will stand witnesse against us Before all these the poor Soul is to appear without any attendance of Servants or support of Friends despoiled of whatsoever she had in this world accompanied only with her own works These alone whether good or evil will follow her to an everlasting reward or punishment For their works follow them Apoc. 14.13 Eccles. 12.14 Mat. 12.36 Consider 2. The terrour of this Judgement in regard of the strict account There will be made a processe of our whole life every action though never so much hidden and secret will be brought to a most strict examination All things that are done God will bring into judgement even every idle word The severe Judge will exact an account not onely of evils committed but also of the good neglected He will also weigh the good actions themselves and see whether they be full and performed with due intention and exactnesse I saith he by David will judge Justices Ps 74.3 Soph. 1.12 And by Sophonias I will search Jerusalem with lamps and if Jerusalem and the Saints how much more Babylon and Sinners Eccli 18.20 Consider 3. And ask your self this question What shall I miserable wretch say for my self at that time For prevention take the advice of Ecclesiasticus Before sickness take medicine and before judgement examine thy self and in the sight of God thou shalt finde propitiation While you have time do good Of the Particular Judgement 2. Part. COnsider 1. The miserable condition of a sinful Soul when at her trial she shall be found to come short in her accounts and guilty of deadly sin For then she is to be degraded as Priests are wont in disgrace and ignominy having their sacred Vestments taken off from
beauty of this your Spouse Goodly of beauty above the sons of men how great his Nobility Dignity Glory Riches Wisdom and Power that you may be the more inflamed with his love Consider 3. Marriage is nothing else but a mutual Contract between two of living together as one with communication of goods and fortunes Wherefore see you do not any more forsake him by sin though it were to gain the whole world Besides communicate freely with him and give him up whatsoever you have Adorn therefore and set out your self in the best manner you are able against the time of your meeting and like a good Spouse as the Apostle admonisheth in all things Study how you may please your Husband 1 Cor. 7.34 Luc. 2.22 Of the B. Virgins Purification COnsider 1. The B. Virgin having retired her self fourty days after her Child-birth goeth up to Jerusalem together with the B. Infant and St. Joseph in compliance with a double law of her own Purification and her Sons Presentation This Law concerned not her who conceived by the Holy Ghost not by man yet she would submit her self unto it 1. To imitate her Blessed Son who would be subject to the Law of Circumcision 2. Not to give offence or scandal to the Jews that knew nothing of the Mystery wrought in her 3. To conform her self in what was lawful to others of her Sex and not to appear singular 4. To be exemplar in works of greater perfection Note each particular and seek to make your benefit thereof If. 64.6 Consider 2. The admirable Vertues she exercised in this action 1. Her heroical Obedience exactly fulfilling whatsoever the Law required of others not pretending any exemption priviledge or dispensation nor using Epikeâ—as or interpretations even in that wherein she might lawfully have used them O that you were so even in things that you are obliged to 2. Her prefound Humility in concealing the Mysteious Conception and Birth of her Son and sustaining the repute of being unclean Be ashamed of your own pride in seeking to be accounted holy and without blame whereas you are but a miserable sinner and as the Prophet saith All your Justices as the cloth of a menstrued woman that is imperfect and saulty Ps 83.3 Consider 3. Her incomparable Purity wherein although she did excell all creatures yet out of the desire she had of becoming still more and more pure would not be without that Ceremonial Purification which the Law required in others Learn hence to go continually increasing in purity of body and mind though you may seem to your self never so much free from sin and imperfection Ponder lastly her singular Devotion in hastening to the Temple to offer up solemnly to the Eternal Father both his and her onely Son Her Soul coveted and fainted into the Courts of our Lord. Observe and imitate as often as you go to Mass to make the same Offering Luc. 2.22 Of our Lords Presentation in the Temple Gen. 8.21 THey carried him into Jerusalem to present him to our Lord. Consider 1. this Presentation and 1. in relation to the B. Virgin what acts of Vertue she exercised therein as of Faith Adoration Devotion and Thanksgiving towards God and of Charity towards men for whom she offered her onely Son 2. In relation to the divine Insant How he rejoyced that the hour was come which he had so much longed for wherein he was to be publickly presented to his Eternal Father as a living Sacrifice for the sins of the whole world and for yours in particular Think with what zeal of his Fathers Glory and Mans Salvation he also offered himself 3. In relation to the Eternal Father how acceptable this action was unto him If at the Offerings of Noe and others Our Lord smelled a sweet savour how much more at this Oblation of his beloved Son made also by himself and in the arms of his blesâ—ed Mother Lue. sup Levit. 12.8 Consider 2. And to give a Sacrifice c. a pair of Turtles or two young Pigcons One for an Holocaust saith the Law and another for Sin Where observe how the Virgin disdained not to be reputed poor that being the Sacrifice ordained by the Law for them that were not able to offer a lamb and a Sinner Be ashamed to disown either or to think much to be ranked among them Ponder what manner of gifts God requireth Turtles Pigeons Lambs by the Turtle is signified mourning and Pennance by the Pigeon simplicity by the Lamb mildness With these Vertues therefore present your self that so your Offering may be acceptable to him Exod. 13.13 Levit. 27.6 Consider 3. Christs Parents to fulfill the Law redeem their Son with five Sicles although the Evangelists mention it not Ponder 1. Who buyeth His Blessed Mother not to keep him for her self but to nurse and bring him up for us 2. Of whom doth she buy him Of his Eternal Father to whom he had lately been presented Thus he would have his Son to be ours by a double title first by Gift in his Incarnation and now again by Sale O that you were so liberal of your self to God! What is the price Five Sicles or pieces of silver Think at how easie a rate you may make God your own and withall how inexcusable you are in refusing to bestow that pains and labour for him which you do for the Vanities of the World Luc. 2.25 Of what passed with Simeon and others 1. Part. Eccle. 7.19 COnsider 1. And behold there was a man in Jerusalem c. Here is described the Sanctity of those that gave testimony of Christ for there is nothing of greater credit or authority then Innocency of life 1. He was Just and religious careful not to offend God in the least for he that feareth God neglecteth nothing 2. He was expecting the consolation of Israel by ardent desires and prayers powred forth with a great and holy confidence 3. And the Holy Ghost was in him inspiring him after a special manner to fix his thoughts and desires upon these heavenly things not on the terrene and vain objects of this world Such ought to be all those that have consecrated themselves to God Expecting not earthly things Tit. 2.13 but as the Apostle saith the blessed hope and advent of the glory of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ Consider 2. And he came in Spirit into the Temple Ponder the difference of them that frequent the Church some coming in Spirit others out of custom See how he came presently to know the Saviour of the World so much desired and longed for by the ancient Patriarks and Prophets See how he runneth to the Mother taketh the Blessed Infant into his arms and there entertains him with holy kisses and embracings O what flames of love would it kindle to have the Son of God so near Imitate these affections as often as you receive the Holy Eucharist and learn to go
S. Bernard elegantly saith The scholar that profiteth is a glory to his Master Whosoever therefore profits not in Christs schoole is unworthy to have him for his Master What a shame would it be for one after seven yeares study of Philosophy and Divinity to have profited nothing and to end his course no better a scholar then he began Much more ought you to be ashamed if which God forbid you become worse more remisse in prayer more given to detraction and a greater lover of your self and your own ease and satisfaction then when you first entered the schoole of Vertue Endeavor therefore continually to better your self Of the Necessity which all have of profiting in Vertue Part 2. Apoc. 2.5 COnsider 1. The Damages which the neglect of advancing in spirit doth bring for first it provoketh God to wrath Therefore in the Apocalyps it is said to the Bishop who had done many good works but had left his first Charity or fervor Be mindful from whence thou art fallen c. And doe the first works But if not I come to thee and will move thy candlestick out of his place God perchance hath designed you for a candlestick to give light to many Have a care therefore he doe not remove you for leaving your first Charity or fervor of devotion Pro. 10.4 Consider 2. How the aforesaid neglect depriveth us of great spiritual gaines and rewards The slothful hand hath wrought poverty saith the Wise-man O what glory should we purchase in Heaven if we were allways intent upon our spiritual profit and took hold of all occasions of exercising Vertue Think what care and labour worldly Merchants take to heap up money which is to perish and moulder away and you that are a Merchant of Heaven neglect everlasting treasures that are freely offered unto you Mat. 25.28.30 Consider 3. How this same neglect disposeth us to a finall decay and absolute breaking for of the servant that neglected to increase the stock or talent which he received it was said take ye away therefore the talent from him c. And the unprofitable servant cast ye out into the utter darkness c. Excite your self therefore to goe on cheerfully Examen wherein you are wont to be most at a stand and resolve to go through with courage You have Christ for your Captaine and for your reward life everlasting Of Christs life from the twelfth to the thirtith year of his age Part 1. COnsider 1. There is nothing exstant in the Ghospel of Christs life from the twelfth to the thirtith year of his age but of his Obedience to his parents and progress in Vertue as we have seen above that you may make the greater account of them Consider 2. It seemeth certain that Christ spent great part of that time in most high contemplation and conversing with his heavenly father for he that was afterwards to say of Mary Magdalen that she had chosen the better part in respect of her love and exercise of contemplation must needs practise it himself much more perfectly And if David seven times a day did utter praise to God and besides did rise at midnight to confess unto him Ps. 118.164 Item v. 62. how much more did Christ Learn hence to give your self to prayer both for your own and your neighbours good and that the frequent exercise therof and familiar conversation with God are prime and necessary dutys of a Christian Jo. 7.15 Mar. 3.21 Consider 3. All that time Christ concealed his Wisdom so that he was held unlearned by all whence afterwards for a wonder they said How doth this man know letters whereas he hath not learned Nay they said that he was become mad for that he spake and wrought such strange things as could not be expected from him Love to be unknown and of no account Believe me said one He hath lived well that hath layn well hid Ovid. Be not too forward to vent your knowledge though you take your self to be more knowing then others Let not the Wise man glory in his wisdom Jer. 9.23 c. But he that glorieth let him glory in this to understand and know me Of Christs life from the twelfth to the thirtith year of his age Part. 2. Mar. 6.3 COnsider 1. As to the exterior manner of living 't is probable Christ our Lord practised the Carpenter's trade also after S. Joseph's death whence the Jews said of him Is not this the Carpenter the son of Mary Imagin your self therefore to see the Word of God and Lord of Heaven handling his hatcher and plainer hewing sawing plaining and joyning boards and other timber together and with astonishment think Who What Where c. And how true that saying is His work is strange from him If. 28.21 Gen. 3.19 Consider 2. Christ did this first out of love to Humility for he that had taken upon him other miseries of human nature and had freely submitted himself to the general malediction of Death would also submit himself to the other malediction of toyl and labour wherein it was said to Adam In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread Secondly he did it to teach us by his example to shun idleness the fountain and origin of all evill See therefore you imitate him Eccli 33.29 for idleness as the wise man saith hath taught much naughtiness Consider 3. What singular profit the B. Virgin made all that time of so long and familiar conversation with her son Imagin what discourses they hold one with another allways of God and of divine matters See the Virgin standing in amaze and beholding her son while he out of love to humility sweepeth the house washeth the pots maketh the fire and dresseth meat for his mother and the like Rom. 11.33 O depth of the riches of the wisdom and of the knowledge of God! Reflect upon every parâ—icular and draw somthing out of all for your own benefit c. The Maana was as it were the seed of Coriander Num. 11.7 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as a Grain of Mustard-seed Mat. 13.31 COnsider 1. What is said to day in the Ghospel The Kingdom of Heaven is like to a Mustard-seed c. To wit that Christ was the Mustardseed being indeed in outward appearance the least of all men Ps. 21.7 according to what he saith of himself I am a worm and no man but in Vertue and efficacy greater then the Angels themselves and this is verified of him most of all in the Eucharist For as to sense what is of less shew then a morsâ—ll of bread but what more divine then the Holy Eucharist as to the Vertue and excellency it containeth with in it S. Tho. Opâ—sâ— 58. 〈◊〉 21. Consider 2. The many admirable Vertues of this Eucharistical grain S. Thomas recounteth twelve like to the twelve fruits of the tree of life of which we read in the Apocalyps 1. It driveth
great power is reposed in him who loves you so intirely How well may you assure your self of his Protection and say with the Prophet If camps stand together against me my heart shall not fear If battell rise up against me in this will I hope Jac. 2.10 Consider 3. It followeth Going therefore teach ye all Nations baptizing them c. Where he instituted the Sacrament of Baptisme in place of Circumcision And as that was the dore or enterance in the antient Law so is Baptisme in the new but with far greater advantages of grace c. Observe likewise that Baptisme or faith alone sufficeth not to Salvation and that there is also required the observance of all the Commandements Teaching them to observe all things c. For whosoever offendeth in one is made guilty of all Therefore David said I was directed to all thy commandements Ps. 118.128 all wicked way I have hated Doe you the like Of other Apparitions within the fourty dayes Act. 1.3 COnsider 1. How our Lord as S. Luke saith Shewed himself alive after his Passion in many arguments for fourty days appearing c. So long would our Blessed Lord remain with them to confirm them the more in the beliefe of his Resurrection And during that time allthough he was ever present with them after an invisible manner yet visibly he appeared only at times that so like a tender mother he might use them by degrees to more solide though harder fare to wit the want of his corporal presence Ibid. Consider 2. How in these Apparitions saith S. Luke he spake of the Kingdom of God Not of vanities or curiosities or of things delightfull to sense nor of news nor of other worldly trifles but of purchasing the Kingdom of God and that by sufferings and Tribulations by mortification of our selves and violence according to that The Kingdom of Heaven suffereth violence Mat. 11.12 and the violent beare it away Learn hence to treat willingly of Heavenly things Moreover it is like our Lord in that time did teach the Apostles those things which they afterwards delivered to the Church by Tradition Beseech our Lord that he would vouchsafe to converse with you in the secret closet of your heart and there instruct you in his law Say with the Prophet Blessed art thou Ps. 118.12 O Lord teach me thy Justifications Consider 3. And reflect seriously upon your self how often God hath spoken within your heart concerning the Kingdom of God moving you both to the desire and purchase thereof by works of Perfection of Charity of Humility of Temperance and the like And you have not heard his voice Listen therefore to him hereafter least perhaps he bring upon you those plagues of which Moyses Our Lord shall increase thy plague Deut. 28. v. 59.62 c. Great plagues and continuing sore infirmities and perpetual c. Because thou heardst not the voice of our Lord thy God Of diverse Circumstances of Christs Apparitions Cant. 5. â— COnsider 1. Diverse Circumstances of these Apparitions which were made after the Resurrection for that allmost the like doe dayly happen in the interiour Visitation of the Soul 1. These Apparitions were not of continuance but short and by fits and more or less frequent according to the disposition and fervor of desire in the parties The same order our Lord observeth with a devoute Soul communicating himself unto her not allways or without intermission but at times and by fits only Inflame your self with his love that you may the oftener enjoy him and be able to say with the spouse If you shall find my beloved tell him that I languish with love Consider 2. He appeared for the most part unexpectedly and as sudenly he with drew himself and commonly made but a short stay whereby he nourished in them a desire of him self In the same manner he visits the faithfull Soul Whence saith S. Bernard Bern. in Canâ— ser 32. There may in this life be joy and content in the spouses presence but not satiety Therefore doe not expect to have your fill here but let it suffice you to have a taste only of the joys of his divine presence Ps. 16.15 You shall be filled with David when his glory shall appear Jo. 3.8 Consider 3. The time and place were different So it is in the interiour Visits of the Soul which happen sometimes in prayer sometimes in reading at other times in midst of buisiness and affairs For the spirit breatheth where he will Lastly at sometimes he appeared in a disguise as he did to Mary Magdalen and the two Disciples going to Emmaus sometimes in his own shape and figure at other times again he made himself known only by Angels In the same manner he manifesteth himself to us now immediately by himself and that apparently now obscurely now again by our Superiours Preachers c. Beseech him to open your eyes that you may know him in what manner soever he shall please to shew himself to you Say with the Spouse Cant. 1.7 Shew me where thou feedest where thou lyest in the midday Our Lord wil comfort Sion and all the ruines thereof and he will make her desert as delicacies Is 51.3 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the Comforter of our Soul Ps. 33.20 COnsider 1. What is read in this days Ghospel I will see you again and your heart shall rejoyce and your joy no man shall take from you Jo. 16.22 Think how many are the tribulations of the Just in this life from within and without That all the delights of this world are but vaine and empty and that there is not any solid comfort or joy to be taken in any thing but in God alone who therefore by S. Paul is said to be the God of all comfort who comforteth us in all our tribulation 2 Cor. 1.3 Ps. 22.5 Consider 2. Christ in the Eucharist is properly the comforter of the afflicted Therefore David Thou hast prepared in my sight a table against them that trouble me And My chalice inebriating how goodly is it For the Holy Eucharist is a torrent of pleasure a river flowing with sweetness an Ocean of Spiritual delights inebriating the mind with unspeakable sweetness according to that of the Psalm Thou hast visited the Earth and hast inebriated it Ps. 64.10 thou hast multiplyed to inrich it If it doth not inebriat nor enrich you it is a sign you are not sufficiently disposed Ps. 93.19 Consider 3. The necessary disposition to enjoy this sweetness and these Spiritual comforts is 1. A perfect griefe for your sins For according to the multitude of my Sorrows in my heart saith David thy consolations have made my Soul joyfull 2. An aversion and loathing of the World with a hunger and longing desire of Heavenly things Therefore our Lord saith by Jeremy Jer. 31.25 I have inebriated the weary Soul and every hungry Soul I have
profit and not to the outward shew Hieron ad Nepot Let your applause saith S. Hierom be your Auditors tears Of the Disciples return from Preaching Luc. 10.17 COnsider 1. How the Disciples being returned from Preaching and something touched with vain glory as the H. Fathers expound for having cast out Devils SS Greg. Hieron Cypr. apud Barad said Lord the Devils also are subject to us Whence you may see how surtle a vice vain glory is that insinuates it self even into the actions of the Apostles that you may so much the more beware of it your self Consider 2. Christs Reprehension I saw Sataâ— as a Lightning falling from Heaven as if he should say as Satan in the beginning fell down as Lightning from Heaven for his haughtiness and pride so do you take heed least being puffed up with vain glory you come to be involved in the same ruine that you may learn always to stand in fear and that no state or condition whatsoever even of Apostles or Angels is secure from falling Job 20.5 Consider 3. Rejoyce not in this that the Spirits are subject unto you but rejoyce in this that your names are written in Heaven True joy is found only in solid virtue and hopes of Eternal Life not in special favours or miraculous gifts which ought rather to cause in us fear and caution least we abuse them Learn therefore to seek content of mind only in heavenly things The joys of this world are but vain and counterfeited The joy of the Hypocrite that is of the deceitful world as it were for a moment saith Job Heavenly content alone is everlasting according to that Is 35.10 Everlasting joy shall be upon their head they shall obtain joy and gladness and sorrow and mourning shall fly away Of Holy Communion Lord thou wilt open my lips and and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise Ps 50.17 Mar. 7.31 Consider Christ as Giver of Hearing and Speech to your Soul Is 65.12 COnsider 1. What is read this day in the Gospel how Christ cured one that was Deaf and Dumb. Imagine your self to be such as truly you are in Spirit Think how deaf you are to Gods Voice and Inspirations often exciting you to Compunction Patience Humility and all manner of Perfection I called and you have not answered I spake and you have not heard Think also how dumb you are in speaking of God and divine matters whereas much fruit might come of such holy discourses both to your self and others You may truly say with the Prophet Jer. 1.6 I cannot speak because I am a child in matters of spirit Mar. 7.37 Consider 2. Christ will come to you to day in the Eucharist of whom it is said in the Gospel He hath made both the deaf to hear and the dumb to speak And if he did it then corporally much more will he do it now spiritually opening the ear of your heart so as to hear his voice and informing your tongue to speak of him to the edification of others according to that The Lord hath given me a learned tongue Is 50.4 that I may know to stay him up that is weary with a word c. In the morning he stirreth up mine ear that I may hear him as a Master c. O what a happiness Mar. 7.32 Consider 3. The preparation necessary for the receiving of these blessings is 1. Frequent Prayer for the Disciples to day besought him that be would impose his hand upon him 2. Retiredness from the noise and affairs of the world for he cured him not till he had taken him from the multitude apart 3. Humility Sap. 10.21 for Wisdom hath opened the mouth of the dumb and the tongues of Infants she hath made eloquent Be therefore an Infant without deceit and a little one in your own eyes that you may deserve of our Lord to be made eloquent to his glory Of S. Johns Message to Christ Mat. 11. Luc. 7. Part 1. Mat. 11.2 COnsider 1. When John had heard in Prison the works of Christ c. Ponder the admirable courage of this holy Precursor who did not stick publickly to reprehend the impious Marriage of the wicked King and chose rather to endure the hardship of Prison and suffer death it self then dissemble the truth much less to betray it Such ought to be all Apostolical men full of zeal in Gods Cause constant Upholders of the Right and such as know not how to yield either to threats or flatteries Consider 2. John being in prison sent two of his Disciples to demand of Christ Art thou he that art to come c. Not as if he any thing doubted of it himself but to the end the hearts of his Disciples might be confirmed in their Faith by their discourse with Christ So Charity seeketh all ways of helping others Do you rejoyce and give thanks that Christ hath been pleased long since to come among us and not held the world in longer suspence and expectation of his coming and for the infinite benefits and treasures we enjoy by means of his Incarnation Consider 3. Christs answer Go and report to John what you have heard and seen The blind see c. He doth not in open terms say that he is Christ to avoid even the least shew of boasting but proveth it by his works for as S. Bernard saith Bern. Serm. 55. in Cantic Louder is the sound of works then of words In like manner therefore you must shew your self to be a Christian Priest or Religious more by your works then by your words Prov. 31.31 Let her works saith the wise man praise her in the gates Besides seeing Christ so liberally bestowed corporal benefits making the blind to see the lame to walk and the like you have much more reason to hope for Spiritual gifts and favours at his hands Of S. Johns Message to Christ Mat. 11. Luc. 7. Part 2. Mat. 11.7 c. COnsider 1. S. Johns Disciples being gone our Lord began to commend their Master First for his constancy in Virtue that he was not like a Reed tossed with every wind and wavering on every side nor empty or void of pith and substance He was not a reed saith S. Gregory whom no alteration of things did ever make to bend S. Greg. Hom. 6. Evang. See whether you be not a Reed easily turned on every side by the least blast of mens mouths inconstant in your good purposes and without any pith of solid virtue Consider 2. He is commended for the austerity of his life and that he was not cloathed in soft garments c. that you might learn to shun all niceties and superfluities in meat drink and apparel if you desire to be approved of by Christ in the day of Judgment Lastly he is termed by Christ an Angel to wit both by Office and Purity of Life that you should do your utmost to imitate his
abnegation of your self say at least hereafter 1 Reg. 3.10 with Samuel Speak Lord for thy servant â—eareth Consider 3. Our Lord the Vision being passed forbad his Disciples to divulge it to any one Tell the Vision to no body Mat. sup till the Son of Man be risen from the dead to give us example of Humility for that extraordinary Visions and favours of God ought to be kept secret and not to be discovered unless some great profit or necessity require it and even then not as our own goods but as gifts of God whereof we shall be demanded an account Of the Petition of the Sons of Zebedee Mat. 20. Mat. 10. Part 1. Mat. 20.20 CConsider 1. Then came to him the Mother of the Sons of Zebedee c. The Mother cometh to petition for her Sons what they themselves pretended for but they interpose their Mothers prayers as a Cloak to cover their own ambition So men oftentimes make use of others desires and commands to cloak their own pretences Observe moreover how the Mother cometh in an humble and suppliant manner and adoring presents her Petition Because Ambition as S. Ambrose witnesseth first serveth Ambr. inâ— Luc. c. 4. that it may afterwards domineer it stoopeth to mean Offices to be served with honour Is 14.13 Consider 2. Her Petition Say that these my two Sons may sit one at thy right hand and one at thy left hand in thy Kingdom 'T is natural to all to be ambitious of the first place this cast the Angels out of Heaven I will ascend into Heaven above the Stars of God will I exalt my Throne c. The same thrust man out of Paradise You shall be as Gods Gen. 3.5 The same assaileth also the Apostles See whether it hath as yet got any hold of you How much safer is it to follow the counsel and example of Christ and to sit in the lowest place 2 Cor. 1. â— Consider 3. Christs answer You know not what you desire They who sue for honours and vanities of this world truly know not what they desire It followeth Can you drink of the Cup that I shall drink of to wit the bitter Cup of Sorrow and Affliction intimating thereby that the glory of Heaven shall be measured to them proportionably to the draught which they shall take of this Cup so that the more one shall drink of this the nearer he shall be seated to Christ Wherefore encourage your self to drink manfully of this Cup to the very bottom for that as the Apostle saith as you are partakers of the Passions so shall you be of the Consolation also Of the Petition of the Sons of Zebedee Mat. 20.22 c. Part 2. Phil. 4.13 COnsider 1. The Apostles readiness to drink the Chalice proposed to them They say to him we can The like alacrity may proceed from a different spirit 1. From Ambition refusing no labours that they may come to what they aim at 2. Out of a rash Fervour not knowing what they undertake as War is sweet to them that have had no experience of it 3. From Divine Grace according to that I can all things in him that strengtheneth me Be ashamed of your self for being so slack and that you have not the courage to undertake that for the Kingdom of Heaven which others do without fear or wit for some vain honour You often answer I cannot whereas not ability but will and resolution is wanting Act. 10.35 Mat. 16.27 Consider 2. Christ seeing this readiness in them answered My Cup indeed you shall drink of but to sit at my right hand and left is not mine to give you but to whom it is prepared of my Father Not disswading them from using their endeavour to deserve the Chief Seats but letting them understand that the Gifts of Glory are not distributed out of favour or upon account of some Temporal Relation or respect but in reward only to their Merits for that God is not an accepter of persons but will render to every one according to his works Consider 3. The difference there is between worldly Precedency and that which is proper to the School of Christ which our Lord explicated upon this occasion The Princes of Gentiles over-rule them c. It shall not be so among you but whosoever will be the greater among you let him be your minister c. which he confirmeth with his own example who came not to be ministred unto but to minister Let your ambition therefore be for the lowest place in all occasions if you desire to be Christs Disciple Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven Mat. 18. Mar. 9. Luc. 9. Mat. 18.1 Mar. 9.34 COnsider 1. At that hour the Disciples came to Jesus saying Who thinkest thou is the greater in the Kingdom of Heaven c. There had a little before been a contention among them which of them should be the greater and each one would have the first place in Heaven for himself Thus Ambition insinuates its self even into spiritual things and persons therefore they ask who is the greater c. And perhaps some one might think that Rich and Principal men in this world were to be preferred before others also in Heaven Consider 2. Jesus calling unto him a little child c. said Vnless you be converted Mat. sup and become as little children you shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child he is the greater in the Kingdom of Heaven Think what it is to become a little one Be not children in sense saith the Apostle but in malice be children A child preferreth himself before none arrogates nothing to himself carrieth himself lovingly to all and finally lets himself be ruled and governed by his Parents Behave your self therefore after the same manner if you desire to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven Narrow is the gate and strait is the way that leadeth to life Mat. 7.14 and therefore none but they that are little and low by Humility can enter through it Consider 3. The grievousness of the offence which they commit that give scandal to Christs little ones that is are occasion of their spiritual ruine either by word or example 'T is expedient for him Mat. 18.6 that a Milstone be hanged about his neck and that he be drowned in the depth of the Sea Take heed therefore lest any one be induced to evil by your example Ezec. 3.18 that his bloud may not be required at your hands Of Holy Communion The Lord thy God thou shalt adore and him only shalt thou serve Deut. 6.13 Is 45.18 Ezec. 18.4 Consider Christ as your Lord. COnsider 1. What is read this day in the Gospel No man can serve two Masters Mat. 6.24 God is your only true and lawful Lord I the Lord and there is none other All Souls are mine as the Soul of the Father so
most justly deserveth to be loved by you from your whole heart with your whole soul and with your whole mind Jo. 14.23 Consider 2. This your Beloved will enter to day in the H. Eucharist the lodging of your heart that you may at leisure enjoy his most sweet Conversation his chast Imbraces and affectuous entertainments of Love If any one love me c. my Father will love him and we will come to him and will make abode with him Think what a torrent of Heavenly Graces will flow into your soul by the benefit of this abode if you be rightly disposed for he saith of himself With me are riches and glory Prov. 8.18 21. glorious riches and justice c. That I may enrich them that love me and may replenish their treasures Consider 3. The disposition on your side must be love for love and that the greatest you can stretch unto which consisteth more in deeds and actions then in words and affections whence he saith Jo. sup If any love me he will keep my word that is my Commandments my Counsels my Admonition See therefore how little observant you have hitherto been of them and procure that hereafter you may be able to say with the Spouse My Beloved to me and I to him in willing and not willing the same in all things with him Cant. 2.16 by a perfect Union of Wills Of the Lepre Mat. 8. Mar. 1. Luc. 5. Part 1. Mar. 1.40 COnsider 1. There came unto Christ a Lepre to be healed 1. He besought our Lord with profound Reverence kneeling down and falling on his face 2. With great Faith confessing our Lords Power Lord if thou wilt Luc. 5.12 thou canst make me clean 3. With Resignation not asking any thing absolutely but conditionally only If thou wilt if it be so pleasing to thy will Such ought also to be your Petitions Humble full of Faith and resigned to the Divine Will Is 66.2 To whom shall I have respect but to the poor little one and the contrite of spirit and him that trembleth at my words Mat. 8.3 Consider 2. Our Lords Clemency He disdained not the presence and sight of that loathsome Spectacle nor did he put off the cure till an other day and although he could have healed him with one single word yet to correct our niceness in like occasions he would also touch him wherefore stretching forth his hand he touched him saying I will be thou made clean Observe the word I will as if he should say I both will and desire for my part for God will have all men to be saved 1 Tim. 2.4 See therefore it be not lack of your self that you are not cleansed from your spiritual Leprosie Consider 3. The spiritual Leprosie of the Soul which is sin is like to that of the body for both defile the Subject wherein it is and render it a most loathsome Spectacle that in the sight of God this to the eyes of men But that of the Soul is so much the more detestable by how much the more dangerous consequence it is of as disposing to death not Temporal but Eternal Wence S. Lewis the King with good reason said as it is related of him Jon. in Vita S. Lud. c. 94. that he had rather incur the Leper of his body then sin and that he sharply reprehended one of his Nobles for making the contrary choice Of the Lepre Mat. 8.4 c. Part 2. COnsider 1. Our Lord having by his Divine Power cured the Lepre Saith to him See thou tell no body Christ knew that he would publish the Miracle to all as afterwards he did out of gratitude neither was there any danger of vain glory in Christ yet he did so for our instruction teaching us to shun the like danger with all our endeavour For vain glory as S. Basil saith is a robber of our spiritual riches Basil Const Monast c. 11. a flattering Enemy of our Souls the Moth of Virtues c. Think with your self how much you are subject to this Vice in your actions and take heed it may not also be said to you You have received your reward Mat. 6.5 16. Consider 2. Go shew thy self to the Priest and offer the gift which Moyses commanded for a testimony to them The Law of Moyses reserved to the Priests the judgment both of the Leprosie its self in case of doubt and of its cure See therefore 1. How observant Christ was of the Law 2. How he honoured those Priests although ever most spiteful to him 3. How much greater Prerogative did he confer upon the Priests of the New Law to whom he gave power to cleanse and take away all manner of spiritual Leprosie Therefore do you also as often as you find your self infected with the like Leprosie go and shew your self to the Priest Levit. 14. Consider 3. The Lepre was also to make an Offering For in the Ancient Law after the shaving of his hair he was commanded to wash his cloaths and his body and to offer a Lamb without spot in Sacrifice Let your Offering as often as you return from the Sacrament of Confession be a Sacrifice of Praise according to that Immolate to God the Sacrifice of Praise and withall Ps 49.14 the Immaculate Lamb of God in the Sacrifice of Mass Of the ten Lepres Luc. 17. Part 1. Luc. 17.12 COnsider 1. Our Lord passing through the midst of Samaria and entering a Town There met him ten men that were Lepers who stood afar off and they lifted up their voice saying Jesus Master have mercy on us Observe also in these the manner of praying well 1. With Humility and Reverence they stood a far off 2. Unanimously and with fervour they lifted up their voice for earnest and fervent prayer is pleasing to God wherefore David said When I cryed to him he heard me Ps 21.25 3. They say not heal us but have mercy on us only begging mercy of him and leaving the whole matter and manner to God Do you the like in your occasions Consider 2. Whom as he saw he said Go shew your selves to the Priests He could have healed them at that instant but he would make tryal of their Obedience sending them to the Priests for the greater respect also and observance of the Law Moreover to teach us that we ought to repair unto the Priests and to disclose our selves to them as often as we are strucken with the Leprosie of Sin and for your part sleep not so much as one night in this Leprosie for what if in that very night God should take your Soul from you your Leprosie would stick to you for all Eternity Ps 31.5 Consider 3. And it came to pass as they went they were made clean Ponder their prompt Obedience and the fruit thereof So it often happeneth to them that are tempted that even while they are but going to manifest
Christ came near and touched the Coffia and they that carried it stood still and he said Young man I say to thee Arise He speaketh imperiously to shew that he is Lord of all That hath power of Life and bringeth down to the Gates of Death and fetcheth again The death of the Soul is sin and Hell its grave for the rich man died 〈◊〉 16.22 and was buried in Hell The Bier whereon the sinner is carried to Hell is his Body the Bearers are Vicious Habits And as the Bier is often set out with Silk and Cloth of Gold though the Corps within is full of ordure so the body of a sinner glistering in Golden Array covereth a Soul abominable to God But Christ cometh and toucheth the Coffin that is striketh the body with sâ—me grievous sickness and by that means bringeth the sinner to life again Consider 2. And he that was dead sate up and began to speak and he gave him to his Mother What joy was this to his Widow-Mother What an astonishment to the rest of the company So a sinner reviving in Spirit to God beginneth to speak of such things as appertain to God confessing his sins asking pardon and extolling so merciful a Lord. â—eg 1.6 Consider 3. And fear took them all and they magnified God From so great a Miracle there arose in the standers by a fear of offending a Lord of such power to wit a Lord that mortifieth and quickneth bringeth down to hell and fetcheth back again Think how necessary it is for you to have this holy fear for the fear of our Lord hateth evil Prov. â— 13 Eccli 2 1â— And They that fear our Lord will sâ—â—k after the things that are well pleasing to him Of raising Lazarus Jo. 11.1 c. Part 1. Jac. 1.15 COnsider 1. There was a certain sick man Lazarus of Bethania c. Lazarus his death proceeded from a languishing disease So likewise from faintness and decay in Spirit if it be not cured in time followeth the death of the Soul Concupiscence bringeth forth sin sin ingendreth death The infirmity of our Nature is the Incentive of Sin but this hurteth none but those that yield of themselves for to them that resist and sight manfully This infirmity or sickness is not to death 2 Cor. 12.9 but for the glory of God for Power or Virtue is perfected in infirmity Consider 2. Lazarus being sick His Sisters sent to Christ saying Lord behold whom thou lovest is sick They do not prescribe what he is to do to a loving friend it is enough to intimate ones necessity Such ought to be our prayers especially in matter of health or other temporal blessings for we know no whether or no what we ask be expedient for our Souls Salvation Besides Christ went not presently but deferred going for two whole daies both to exercise their Faith and Patience and to render the Miracle more Illustrious So he often dealeth with you Greg. 26. Moral c. 15 The labour of the Combat saith S. Gregory is prolonged that the Crown of Victory may be the greater Consider 3. Some disswaded Christ from returning into Jewry to cure Lazarus for that the Jews had sought for him to stone him S. Thomas answered Let us also go to die with him Such ought to be the courage of an Apostolical man Jo. sup v. 16. contemning what dangers soever even death it self for the good of Souls and glory of God And such fervent acts ought you often to make that when Persecution shall arise against you you may be able to stand in the day of battel and not make your life more precious then your self Ps 139.8 Act. 20.24 Of raising Lazarus Jo. 11.33 c. Part 2. Rom. 12.15 Heb. 4.15 COnsider 1. Christ when he was come to Lazarus his Grave seeing others weeping he groaned in spirit and troubled himself c. and wept Which he did both out of Charity to weep with them that weep and withall to shew that we have a High-Priest that can have compassion on our infirmities Then he bad them take away the stone and lifting his eyes upward he prayed to his Father to teach us that we are to take away all impediments of our Salvation and to implore the Divine Assistance in all occasions but chiefly in the conversion of a sinner Consider 2. The stone being taken away He cryed with a loud voice Lazarus come forth Ponder the power and efficacy of his word which even the dead obey For forthwith he came forth that had been dead bound feet and bands with winding bands and his face was tyed with a Napkin This man that lay four daies dead in his Grave is a perfect Figure of an inveterate sinner bound and fettered with ill habits as so many winding bands muffled with the Napkin of Blindness pressed and â—ept down by Custom as under a ponderous Grave and finally fast shut up and inclosed through hardness of heart as with a Grave-stone such are almost incorrigible Therefore Christ cryed here with a loud voice and doth daily call to such and yet is not heard Take heed of such habits and customs of sin for as S. Augustine saith He hardly riseth that is borne down by evil custom Aug. c. 49. in Joan. Consider 3. The Pharisees having heard of this Miracle Gathered a Councel and devised to kill Jesus Whence you may learn that there is nothing so holy no action so good that is not subject to envy and harsh censures of disaffected persons Of Holy Communion Stand and consider the marvels of God Job 37.14 Consider Christ as the Worker of Miracles Jo. 4.48 COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Gospel Vnless you see signs and wonders you believe not Christ did many signs and wonders to confirm our Faith so that by the Prophet he is called by the Name of Marvellous Is 9.6 Yet he never appeared more wonderful then in the Eucharist the which that he might the more commend unto us he would make it an abridgment of all his Miracles according to that Ps 110.4 5. He hath made a memory of his marvellous works a merciful and pittiful Lord he hath given meat to them that fear him Consider 2. In particular some of the Miracles contained in this Mystery 1. As to the substance of bread which is wholly destroyed at the Priests words even the materia prima also and in place thereof succeedeth the glorious Body of Christ the very same that is adored in Heaven by the Angels so that there never was any so miraculous a Transmutation 2. As to the Accidents which being separated from their Substances are conserved without any Subject of Inhesion as the Rays of the Sun severed from it and yet they are never the less active and do nourish no otherwise then if they were Inherent to their own Substances and transcending all the power of Nature they truly produce Sanctifying
Grace in the Soul 3. As to the Body of Christ which is here in manner of a Spirit whole in the whole Host and whole in every part thereof it is the self-same in several places together Indivisible Impassible Indeficient and equally sufficient to one 3 Reg. 10.20 and to many Truly there was not such a work made in all Kingdoms Eccles 7.19 Consider 3. The necessary preparation for receiving this Miraculous Food is the fear of our Lord for he hath given meat to them that fear him And he that feareth God neglecteth nothing that is pleasing to him Do you therefore do the like Of some Historical Narrations and Parables of Christ Of the Rich Glutton Luc. 16.19 c. and of Lazarus Part 1. 2 Tim. 6.9 COnsider 1. There was a certain rich man and and he was cloathed with Purple and Silk and he fared every day magnifically Observe the Vices which commonly follow Riches Pride in Apparel Riot in Feasting Contempt of the Poor and the like that you may keep your self from the desire of them For they that will be made rich fall into tentation and the snare of the Devil Job 21.13 Consider 2. The rich man died and was buried in Hell How sad an Obit to so pleasant a life but such for the most part is the end of riches and pleasures They lead their lives in wealth and in a moment they go down to Hell Ponder here his torments for Purple and Silk he is invested with Flames for Delicious Fare he is tormented with Intollerable Thirst for his Contempt of the Poor he is now contemned by him and he that denied the Crums of his Table cannot obtain one drop of water Thus the punishments are proportioned to the offences Sap. 6.7 The Mighty saith the wise man shall mightily suffer torments 2 Tim. 3.12 Consider 3. The just Judgment of God The rich man is not heard in his Torments who neglected to do Mercy in his Jollities Therefore when he begged it was answered him Remember that thou didst receive good things in thy life time As if it were not lawful to receive good things here and there too and so it is For all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution Seek not therefore to enjoy prosperity in this life least you come to miss of it in the next Act. 14.21 For by many tribulations we must enter into the Kingdom of God Of the Rich Glutton and of Lazarus Luc. 16.20 c. Part 2. COnsider 1. There was a certain Beggar called Lazarus Christ vouchsafed to call the Beggar by his Name and make him known to Posterity but not the rich man Greg. Hom 40. for as S. Gregory saith Our Lord acknowledgeth and approveth the humble but the proud he knoweth not that you may learn to esteem Virtue more then worldly riches and splendour The memory of the Just saith the wise man Prov. 10.7 is with praises and the name of the Impious shall rot Consider 2. This Saints Patience whereby he arrived to such a degree of Sanctity He was 1. Full of sores patiently enduring the pain proceeding from them 2. Extreme poor desiring to be filled of the crums that fell from the rich mans table 3. Contemned by all And no man did give him 4. So miserable that he was fain to permit the dogs to lick his Sores and perhaps by reason of his weakness he was not able to keep them off Who is there now a-days that would prefer such an one before a rich man and yet this did Christ our Lord. Num. 23.10 Consider 3. The happy death of Lazarus who was immediately carried of the Angels into Abrahams Bosom Thus short are the tribulations of the Just but their glory is everlasting What joys riches and honours did sores poverty and contempt bring to this Beggar O let my Soul die the death of the Just and my last ends be made like to them Ponder how unequal were the lots of the rich man and of holy Lazarus after their death much more certainly then they were in their life time He was happy for a moment but everlastingly miserable this miserable indeed for a while but afterwards most happy for all Eternity Of the Prodigal Son Luc. 15.11 c. Part 1. Eccles 7.30 COnsider 1. A certain man had two Sons and the younger said to his Father Father give me the Portion of Substance that belongeth to me God hath two Sons the Just and the Sinner the Just is Elder because God made man right in the beginning and he always abideth in Gods House the Sinner estrangeth himself from him and abuseth the gifts which he affordeth him both of Nature and Grace living riotously that is perversly they go into a Forreign Country whosoever leave God who is the way Therefore David Ps 118.155 Salvation is far from sinners Consider 2. The Miserie 's this young man fell into when he was from his Father 1. He began to be in need So a sinner that estrangeth himself from the Sacraments from Exhortations and from the company and example of the good beginneth to be in want of spiritual sustenance 2. He cleaved to one of the Citizens as a servant for whosoever do sin give themselves over as Slaves to the Devil and he imployeth them in feeding Swine while he makes them like to that sort of Beasts swill themselves with sensual pleasures 3. Neither could he so fill his belly because even all worldly delights cannot satiate the Souls Appetite Js 28.19 Consider 3. Returning to himself he said c. Being pressed with Famine he cometh to himself because vexation alone shall give understanding to the sinner and makes him think how foolishly he hath left eternal things for such as quickly pass away How many of my Fathers hirelings have abundance of bread and I here perish for famine Hence he is moved to repentance I will arise and go to my Father O how often have you followed this Prodigal Child in going astray follow him therefore also in returning by Repentance Of the Prodigal Son Luc. 15.20 c. Part 2. COnsider 1. The Fathers Bowels of Mercy who when his Son was yet far off he saw him and was moved with mercy So Almighty God with the Eyes of his Mercy doth look upon a sinner being yet a far off from him by sin He invites him to him by his Exciting Grace saying Return c. and I will take you Jer. 3.14 And as soon as he returneth he meets him he falls about his neck he imbraces him he adorns him with the first Stole of Justice he puts on a ring upon his hand for the exercise of good works and shoes upon his feet to keep him from the dirt of worldly pleasures O God! is it possible you should bear such love to a man made of Clay and that hath deserved a thousand times the torments of Hell
COnsider 1. A certain man had a Fig-tree planted in his Vineyard and he came seeking for fruit on it and found not c. This Fig-tree is every Christian planted by Gods own hand in the Vineyard of his Church to bring forth fruit of good works This Tree God doth cherish with the warm Sun and water with the showres of his Grace and if that suffice not he forceth it in a manner to good by digging and laying dung about it and if neither after all this it will yield fruit he bids it to be cut down and cast into the fire For every tree that doth not yield good fruit shall be cut down and cast into the fire Consider 2. And apply all this to your own Soul which the Heavenly Husbandman hath planted as a choice Sprig in the Vineyard of his Church exposed to the open Sun of his Divine Illustrations often watered with the showres of his Grace and finally provided with all necessaries to bring forth plenty of fruit and yet perhaps he may justly say of you Loe it is now so many years since I come seeking for fruit upon this Fig-tree and I find not that is I find not fruit answerable to my labour and expectation What then Apoc. 2.21 Consider 3. Let it alone this year also c. Who knoweth whether God hath not prefixed this year as your last in hopes of greater fruit so that hereafter he will not afford you so many helps of his Grace God oftentimes giveth us time to do Penance but if we use it not he closeth his hand and as it is said in the Apocalyps Apoc. 10.6 There shall be time no more that is of such abundant helps without which we shall not be able to work Therefore make good use of the time allowed you and procure to produce good fruit and not leafs only MEDITATIONS OF SAINTS Of the Excellency of the B. Virgin above all Creatures COnsider 1. With what pomp and state of Plate Perfumes Tapistry and other rich Furniture worldly Princes are wont to set forth their Bed-chamber and Rooms of Presence How much more fitting was it that the King of Heaven should adorn the Cabin wherein he was not only to abide for some time but of which he decreed to frame himself a Body To be Mother of God is the greatest Dignity that can possibly be communicated to a pure creature To her therefore are due all manner of Grace and Ornaments which by the ordinary Power of God may be conferred upon any pure Creature Therefore S. Anselm S. Ansel l. de Concep V. c. 8. It was fitting that the Virgin should be adorned with that Purity then the which no greater under God could be conceived Consider 2. Hence it followeth that whatsoever Internal Grace and Virtue was bestowed upon any Saint the same in a much more perfect manner was conferred upon the B. Virgin And which is more divers Authors affirm Suar. 3. p.t. 2. disp 18. Sec. 4. Barrad c. 1. l. 6. Cant. 6.3 And which is more divers Authors affirm that her Grace and Glory alone did surpass that of all other Saints put together For it is fit that a King of Infinite Power and Riches should bestow more upon his Mother then all his Servants besides therefore it is said in the Canticles Thou art fair O my Love sweet and comely as Hierusalem that is as the whole City of Heaven And S. Bernard S. Bern. Serm. signum magnum To others saith he Grace is imparted by parcels but upon Mary the whole fulness thereof was powred forth Consider 3. What Reverence Confidence and Love you ought hence to have towards this Sacred Virgin Reverence for the Excellency of her Dignity Confidence for the greatness of her Goodness Love for the tender bowels of her Charity towards us For she vouchsafeth to be a Mother to us all and the greater she is the more tender she is of us what might you not hope for if you had a Mother that were Empress of the whole world Love therefore that you may deserve to be loved and protected by so powerful a Lady Of the Immaculate Conception of the B. Virgin The work is great neither is the habitation prepared for man but for God 1 Paral. 29.1 Ps 45.5 COnsider 1. It was not fitting that the Mother of God should for any one moment be Slave of the Devil And if the Ark of God and the Tabernacle were to be made of the wood Setim which would not rot much more the living Ark and Tabernacle of God ought to be preserved from all Corruption Therefore the Highest hath sanctified his Tabernacle so that from the very first instant wherein her blessed Soul was united to her Body in her Mothers Womb it was ever true to say Thou art all fair my Love and there is not a spot in thee Cant. 4.7 Ps 86.3 Consider 2. She was not barely preserved from all stain and blemish by the infusion of Grace but besides she received such plenty of Habitual Grace and all manner of Virtue together with the suppression of Concupiscence and use of Reason that even then she surpassed the greatest Saints Therefore it is said of her Glorious things are said of thee O City of God And what are those glorious things The foundations thereof in the holy Mountains for that the foundations or beginnings of all other men are laid in Original Sin but the foundations of the Blessed Virgin were holy Suar. 3. p. to 2. disp 18. and equal to the very top of other Saints perfections And if the very ground-work were such what do you think was the height of Sanctity she arrived unto at her death By continual encrease and addition proceeding from the exercise of most intense Acts of Virtue Consider 3. How much you ought to rejoyce for the Immaculate Conception of her that was likewise to be your Mother Do you also procure this day to be spiritually conceived to God without spot and so ever after to remain Rejoyce that you are to feed in the Eucharist on the very same flesh which the Son of God took from his Virgin Mother and endeavour to come without the least spot to the spotless Lamb of the Immaculate Virgin Of the Nativity of the B. Virgin What is she that cometh forth as the Morning rising Cant. 6.9 Antiph and Magnif COnsider 1. How true is that saying of the Church Your Nativity O Mother of God hath brought joyful tidings to the whole world c. For 1. The Blessed Trinity rejoyced as for the Coadjutrix of the Incarnation 2. The Angels for their Queen 3. The Fathers in Limbo for the Motheir of their Deliverer 4. The Just also in this world God infusing an extraordinary kind of Joy into their Souls though themselves perhaps knew not the cause thereof as often happeneth The whole world is exhilarated at the break of day as the Fore-runner of the Sun rising Mary
Body and Mind and while they are yet in flesh emulate the perfection of Pure Spirits with this advantage of desert that what they are by Nature these arrive unto by a glorious Victory over their own Nature Virgins are specially beloved by Christ he would have a Virgin Mother a Virgin for his Precursor and among all his Disciples he loved best the Virgin S. John Virginity as S. Cyprian affirmeth is the Flower of the Churches Off-spring Cypr. de Discipl Habitu Virg. the Glory and Ornament of Spiritual Grace the Image of God and the most Illustrious Portion or part of Christs Flock 2 Cor. 4.7 Consider 2. Virginity although it be a special gift of God is not bestowed without our concurrance nor conserved without diligent care for we have this treasure in Earthen Vessels The means therefore to obtain and conserve it are 1. Mortification of the Flesh by Fasting Abstinence Watching and other Corporal Austerities 2. Strict guard upon our Senses which are the gates through which all evil doth enter into our Soul 3. Command over our thoughts neither admitting nor even disputing with any that are against this Virtue 4. The avoiding of all occasions that may bring us into the least danger 5. Earnest Prayer to Almighty God whose gift it is 6. Humility not trusting to our selves knowing our own weakness 7. Fear of God 8. Memory of the last things Apoc. 14.4 Consider 3. The Reward of Virginity 1. It is sufficient Reward to it self freeing the Soul from the Tyranny of the Flesh and unruly Passions to which others are subject and filling the same with most pure joy and content above all the delights of the World 2. Virgins after a special manner are Temples of the Holy Ghost and Spouses of Christ with whom he delighteth to be Whence they have that singular Prerogative above others in Heaven that they follow the Lamb whither soever he shall go 3. They have a special Crown in Heaven like to that of Martyrs And S. Ambrose doth stile Virginity the Mother of Martyrs and a glorious Martyrdome it self Stir your self up to the love of this Heavenly and Angelical Virtue and make use of the means that help to obtain it On the Feast of any Saint General Points Rom. 8.30 COnsider 1. Four things in whatsoever Saint you meditate on 1. His Predestination 2. Vocation 3. Justification 4. Glorification according to that of the Apostle Whom he hath predestinated them also he hath called and whom he hath called them also he hath justified and whom he hath justified them also hath he glorified The Predestination or Election to Glory was of Gods free gift without any desert of theirs Ephes 1.4 Before the canstitution of the world that they should be Holy and Immaculate in his sight Their Vocation in divers of them was different some were called in their Youth others in their Old Age some by Miracle others occasionally But God hath been wonderful in all Their Justification afforded them great gifts of Grace and special helps the chief of which you may reflect upon more in particular Their Glorification chiefly after death by Miracles Visions the gift of curing Diseases and the like Mat. 16.24 Consider 2. How the Saint of whom you meditate answered Gods Call and practised what he required of all those that would follow him as in set down in the Gospel If any man will come after me let him deny himself and take up his Cross and follow me Ponder how he was 1. In the Abnegation of himself by mortifying his Flesh Senses and Appetites 2. In carrying his Cross that is in manfully undergoing labours and pains for the glory of God and suffering adversities such as are Sickness Persecutions Afflictions Miseries c. 3. In following Christ by the exercise of all manner of Virtue in imitation of him Consider 3. In what particular and in what manner you are to imitate the Saint of whom you meditate Chrysost Ser. de Mart. quod imitand in brev 7. Noâ—omâ— Because as S. Chrysostome saith You must imitate if you praise or must not praise if you refuse to imitate And we might be what the Saints are if we would do what they did FINIS To the greater Glory of God His B. Virgin Mother and all his Saints A TABLE OF THE MEDITATIONS Contained in this Book as they lye in Order distributed for every Day of the Year From the 1 of November to Advent ALL-Saints day Of Christ in the Eucharist as God Page 1 1. Sunday Of Christ in the Eucharist as King Page 2 2. Sunday Of Christ in the Eucharist as our Father Page 3 3. Sunday Of Christ in the Eucharist as our Brother Page 5 4. Sunday Of Christ in the Eucharist as our Master Page 6 Of Mans last End 2. Meditations Page 7 8 Of Mans Duty towards God 2. Med. Page 9 10 11 Of the Sin of Angels Page 12 Of the Sin of our first Parents Page 13 Of the grievousness of Mortal Sin 5. Med. Page 14. c. Of flying Venial Sins 3. Med. Page 21. c. Of Death 3. Med. Page 25. c. Of preparing against Death 2. Med. Page 28. c. Of particular Judgment 2. Med. Page 31. c. Of general Judgment 2. Med. Page 33. c. Of Hell 2. Med. Page 36. c. Of Purgatory 2. Med. Page 39. c. From Advent to Christmass 1. Sunday Of Christ in the Eucharist as Judge page 42 Of imitating the Life of Christ 2. Med. Page 43. c. Of Gods Decree concerning the Incarnation 2. Med. Page 45. c. Of the Election of Christs Mother 2. Med. Page 47. c. 2. Sunday Of Christ as the Expectation of the Gentiles Page 50 Of sending the Angel Gabriel Page 51 Of the Angels Salutation Page 52 Of the Delivery of the Message Page 53 Of the B. Virgins Reply Page 54 Of the B. Virgins Consent Page 55 Of the accomplishment of the Incarnation Page 56 3. Sunday Of Christ as the Anoiuted of our Lord Page 58 Of our Ladies Journey to Elizabeth Page 59 Of the Virgins Entrance to Elizabeth Page 60 Of the Canticle Magnificat Page 61 Of the Virgins stay with Elizabeth Page 63 Of Saint Johns Nativity 2 Med. Page 64. c. 4. Sunday Of Christ as our Souls Guest Page 66 Of the Revelation made to S. Joseph 2. Med. Page 67. c. Of the Expectation of the Virgins Delivery 2. Med. Page 70. c. Of the Virgins Journey to Bethlehem Page 72 From Christmass to Septuagesm On Christmass-day Of Christ as a little one Page 74 Of our Lords Birth 3. Med. Page 75. c. Of the Shepherds and their Adoration 3. Med. Page 78. c. On New-years day Of Christ as he is Jesus Page 82 Of our Lords Circumcision 2. Med. Page 83. c. Of our Spiritual Circumcision 2. Med. Page 86. c. On Twelfth-day Of Christ as our Sovereign Lord Page 88 Sunday in the
Jesus calling his Discipees together he saith to them I have compassion upon the multitude because loe three daies now they endure with me neither have they what to eat And if I dismiss them fasting into their home they will faint in the way This is a perfect Embleme of our condition in this world where even at the best we are an object of compassion The World is a Desart an habitation of wild beasts and void of all good having nothing whereon our Immortal Soul can feed and satiate it self we are a far off from our heavenly Country and ready to saint and fail in our way home happy only in this if we keep company with Jesus and can be content to endure with him Consider 2. Christs infinite goodness 1. In having compassion of their condition 2. In consulting with his Disciples for Redress 3. In making the multitudes sit down upon the ground 4. In distributing amongst them that little provision which he had for himself and his Disciples all which he did giving thanks breaking the loaves blessing the fish and giving them to his Disciples Apply this also spiritually and acknowledge in the fish and seven loaves the Provision of Grace afforded us in the seven Sacraments as also the seven Gifts of the Holy Ghost whereby the Soul is filled with comfort strength and vigour to continue the course of our Pilgrimage Consider 3. And they took up that which was left of the fragments seven Maunds Thus God is always overflowing in his liberality and gifts towards us but how niggard and close-handed are we towards him and our Neighbour Observe here that the Over-plus that we have either in Temporals or Spirituals ought not to be cast away but gathered together for the supply of others that are indigent Lastly learn this great Lesson that none will ever be the poorer but rather the richer for what they bestow out of pure Charity upon others for relief of their corporal or spiritual necessities See more of the like subject concerning the five loaves page 362 363. 7. Sunday after Pentecost Of False Prophets Mat. 7.15 page 327. Consider 1. Take ye heed of false Prophets which come to you in the cloathing of sheep but inwardly are ravening wolves False Prophets 1. Are Heretiques who under the fair pretence of Sanctity Liberty of Conscience expounding of Scripture c. preach false Doctrine 2. All those which under the pretext of some good or Virtue especially of Prudence and Discretion preach to us such things as are more agreeable to flesh and blood Such are Self-love Concupiscence Passion Worldly Maximes Pleasant Companions the Devil c. Have a care what Prophets you entertain see they be none of those of whom Jeremy Thren 2.14 Thy Prophets have seen false and foolish things to thee Phil. 3.20 Consider 2. By their fruits you shall know them Think what are the fruits of the above-mentioned false Prophets Obstinacy Licentiousness Disorder Disquiet Sting and Wound of Conscience c. A good Tree cannot yield evil fruits neither an evil Tree yield good fruits The Tree planted in the earth raiseth its branches and fruit upwards so man though upon earth should have his conversation in Heaven and produce heavenly fruit Every Tree that yieldeth not good fruit shall be cut down and shall be cast into fire Take warning and yield good fruit in time Mat. 3.10 perhaps the Axe is now put to the root of your Tree 1 Thes 4.3 Consider 3. Not every one that saith Lord Lord shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven but he that doth the will of my Father which is in Heaven Not all that call upon God by an exteriour Profession of Godliness nor all that undertake to Preach his Word shall be saved but those only which bring forth the good fruit above required viz. the Will of God declared unto them by the Holy Church Superiours Directors Interiour Inspirations c. This is the Will of God saith the Apostle your Sanctification by supernatural Grace and exercise of solid Virtue according to every ones state and profession 8. Sunday after Pentecost Of the Bailiff of Iniquity Luc. 16.1 page 335. see page 449. 9. Sunday after Pentecost Of Christs weeping upon the City Luc. 19.41 page 343. see page 147. 10. Sunday after Pentecost Of the Publican and the Pharisee Luc. 18.9 page 350. see page 460. 11. Sunday after Pentecost Of the Deaf and Dumb Man Marc. 7.31 page 357. see page 409 410 411. 12. Sunday after Pentecost Of the man wounded by Thieves and of the good Samaritan Luc. 10.23 page 365. see page 433 434. 13. Sunday after Pentecost Of the ten Lepers Luc. 17.11 page 372. see page 407 408. 14. Sunday after Pentecost Of serving God and Mammon Mat. 6.24 page 380. Consider 1. No man can serve two Masters c. You cannot serve God and Mammon There are two that would have you for their Servant God and the World you cannot serve both because they are opposite to one another neither can you serve one without hating the other God requires of you that you should seek Heaven contemn Earthly things imbrace Virtue curb the Flesh subdue Sense c. The World on the contrary will have you seek your own content and satisfaction enjoy the conveniences of this life neglect spiritual things cherish and pamper the flesh and give full scope to all your sensual Appetites Now chuse which of these two Services you like best whom you will have for your Master whom you will love and whom you will hate Consider 2. Therefore I say unto you be not careful for your life what you shall eat neither for your body what rayment you shall put on c. Christ perswades us here to cast off all immoderate care of Temporals which he doth by five convincing Arguments 1. A Majori If God hath given us our Soul and Body he will also provide us with necessaries for their preservation 2. A Minori If God doth so providently feed the beasts of the earth and adorn the flowers and grass of the field what will he not do for his children 3. For that all our care availeth nothing without Gods Providence not being able to add a Cubit to our stature 4. For that this care is common to Heathens and Infidels that know not God not proper for Christians that believe and trust in him 5. For that God is a loving Father who cannot know the necessities of his children and let them want Luc. 10.42 Mat. 13.44 45. Consider 3. That most admirable and comfortable conclusion Seek therefore first the Kingdom of God and the Justice of him and all these things shall be given you besides The Kingdom of God is his Glory and our Everlasting Happiness This one thing is necessary this is the treasure hidden in a field this is the precious Margarit to be purchased with all we have this ought to be our prime care to imploy our chiefest thoughts to take up our best
all others whence by the Holy Fathers it is called the Mother and Guardian of other Vertues for he that is Obedient is also humble patient meek charitable continent and Master of himselfe for as the Wise man saith An obedient man shall speak Victory Pro. 21.28 Procure therefore to be well affected to this Vertue and to exercise it when occasion is in imitation of Christ Behold I sow my Law in you and it shall bring fourth fruit in you 4 Esd 9.31 Mat. 13.24 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the good seed of our Soule Zach. 9.17 COnsider 1. What is said to day in the Ghospel The Kingdom of Heaven is resembled to a man that sowed good seed in his field Ponder therefore how your soule is a field capable both of good and bad seed and that God doth cast into it many good seeds of holy Inspirations and pious affections by good books Preachers Directours c. But the choisest seed of all is his own pretious body which he soweth in your soule by the Eucharist for this is the corn of the Elect and the seed that yeeldeth fruit of eternal life Consider 2. The soile of your soule of itself is fruitless and barren bringing forth nothing but thorns and bryars and subject to be overgrown with cockle which resembling the good seed of Vertues doe fill up and cosen the soule with vain hopes of fruite and in harvest time that is in the later judgement are cast into the fire Cleanse therefore your soule carefully from the weedes and bryars of Vice with the harrow of Mortification Separate the cockle from the pure wheat true Vertue from that which is false and counterfeit that the seed of the heavenly sower may not be choked up within you Heb. 6.7 c. Consider 3. How seriously you ought to labour to the end that by meanes of so much sowing and frequent receiving the Sacraments you may yeeld fruit answerably lest otherwise the heavenly husbandman provoked to indignation condemn you to the fire For the earth saith the Apostle drinking the raine often coming upon it and bringing forth grass commodious for them by whom it is tilled receiveth blessing of God but bringing forth thorns and bryars it is reprobate and very neer a curse whose end is to be burnt Luc. 2.52 Of Christs growing in Age and Wisdom c. Part I. COnsider 1. And Jesus proceeded in Wisdom and age and grace with God and men Christ from his first conception had all fullness of Grace Wisdom and all manner of Vertue but he proceeded still forward in them to the outward appearance accommodating his actions and discourses sutably to his age that you might learn to conform your self to the time and place you are in and to make continual progress in Vertue Luc. 9.62 Consider 2. There are diverse ways both of profiting and of failing in a spirituall life First some after they have begun well give back through Inconstancy and these our Lord condemneth when he saith No man putting his hand to the plough and looking back is apt for the Kingdom of God and biddeth us remember Lot's wife who was turned into a pillar of Salt that others might be the wiser by her misfortune Apoc. 2.4 Consider 3. Others in their progress grow remisse in fervor and use of those means whereby they might profit and therefore are in danger of falling To such Christ speaketh in the Apocalyps I have against thee a few things because thou hast left thy first charity Others againe begin and goe on with a slow pace and although outwardly there appeare no defect yet for the most part there is a reall decay within Finally others when they have once begun well Ps. 83.6 goe on cheerfully disposing ascension in their hearts c. From one Vertue to another See in what class you are or would wish to be and mend your pace towards gaining the prize Luc. 2.52 Of Christs growing in Age Wisdom c. Part 2. COnsider 1. Jesus proceeded in Wisdom and age and grace with God and Men saith the Evangeast We must therefore joyn both together and avoid two extremes Wherefore ponder how some there are whâ—se care only it is to carry a faire outside in the eyes of men and doe little regard their own true interior profit in the sight of God and their own conscience So did the Pharisees of whom Christ Mat. 6.16 They disfigure their faces that they may appeare unto men to fast Amen I say to you that they have received their reward See whither you doe your actions so for example frequenting the Sacraments hearing Masse and the like only for human respects and that you might not seem indevout And see you mend Rom. 10.2 Consider 2. Others there are on the contrary who have no regard to the edification of their Neighbour in what they doe out of fervor having somtimes an over great and indiscreet Zeal of God but not according to knowledg as the Apostle saith And these the same Apostle admonisheth to be providing good things not only before God Rom. 12.17 but also before Men. Mat. 5.17 Consider 3. Lastly Others joyne both together and that in due manner according to the example of Christ who said So let your light shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in Heaven Run over all your actions in particular and see what you are wont to doe only to please men what againe to please God alone though it be with the offence and disedification of others and endeavour in all things to please God by a right intention and to edify men by good example Of the Necessity which all have of profiting in Vertue Part 1. COnsider 1. All that are disciples of Christ must make continuall progress in spirit 1. Because not to goe forwards in the way of God as the Saints doe teach is to goe backwards For as a boat cannot keep its ground in a swift river but must necessarily be carryed down ward by force of the stream unless it be born upward by meanes of oares so unless you goe continually on strugling with main force against the impuâ—se of nature you will certainly by force thereof be cast back for as S. Bernard saith Not to gaine doubtless is to lose ground Ber. Ep. 341 whence you will come to fall at last into the hands of your enemies whom you desire to escape Mat. 5.48 Consider 2. Because such is the will of God who will have us to be pure and holy in his sight without spot or wrinckle Be you perfect therefore saith Christ as also your Heavenly Father is perfect No man becometh eminent all on a suddain Let every one therefore seek to perfect himselfe by degrees that he may at last arrive to the top of perfection S. Bern. Consider 3. Because so it becometh a disciple of Christ to doe Whence