be directed as Incense in thy sight and the elevation of my hands as evening Sacrifice 2. By Prayer man becometh companion of the Angels and converseth familiarly with God himself 3. God takes himself to be honoured by our prayers as he expresly tells us by his Prophet Invocate me in the day of tribulation Ps 49.15 I will deliver thee and thou shalt glorisie me 1 Pet. 5.8 Consider 2. The necessity we have of Prayer in regard of the miseries of this mortal life and continual dangers 1. Of Soul from the assaults of the Devil who as a roaring Lion goeth about seeking whom he may devoure from the alurements of the world and from the rebellion of our own flesh 2. Of Body from War Famine and Pestilence from poverty sickness loss of goods and fortunes death of friends and from innumerable other crosses and afflictions All which make us to cry out with King Josaphat to our Lord Whereas we are ignorant what to do 2 Paral. 20.12 this only we have lest that we direct our eyes to thee Luc. 18.1 Consider 3. The goodness of God who whereas he could sufficiently redress all our necessities with the general Providence wherewith he provideth for his other creatures yet to endear us the more to himself requireth that we have our recourse unto him by prayer acknowledging him the Author of all good and depending wholly on him in all occasions and therefore he hath given us an express Command thereof delivered by Christ in these words It behoveth always to pray Reflect upon your own particular necessities spiritual and temporal Heb. 4.16 and go with confidence to the Throne of Grace that you may obtain mercy and find grace in seasonable aid Of the benefit of Prayer Part 2. COnsider 1. More in particular the benefits and efficacy of Prayer which as S. Hierom saith overcometh the inâ—iâ—cible Hieron in Epist and bâ—adeth the Almighty moving him to mercy and tying his hands from punishing our sins Suffer me said God to Moyses Exod. 32.10 when he was praying for the people that my fury may be angry against them It is a general remedy against all difficulties and temptations Prosp in Serm. Exod. 17.11 c. Jos 10.14 and a Scourge as S. Prosper saith to the Devils Moyses lifting up his hands in prayer obtained victory over the Amalecites Josue by prayer made the Sun and Moon stand still our Lord obeying the voice of a man How much more then may we hope the effect of our prayers for the obtaining of spiritual blessings Consider 2. Prayer as S. Augustine saith Aug. Serm. 26. de temp Luc. 11.13 is the Key of Heaven opening unto us all manner of heavenly treasures For by prayer we obtain 1. The divine Spirit of God Your father from heaven will give the good Spirit to them that ask him 2. Increase of habitual and sanctifying grace 3. More frequent supplies of actual grace 4. All manner of virtues and supernatural gifts Besides in the exercise thereof our faith is quickned our hopes raised and our love and affection inflamed towards God whom therein we acknowledge to be our chief Benefactor and Author of all good Is 65.24 Consider 3. All this and whatever else we can desire for our good Almighty God is readier to bestow upon us then we to ask and doth even prevent our prayers according to that And it shall be before they call I will hear as they are yet speaking I will hear And if he denieth us any thing it is our fault in demanding either what we ought not or not in the manner we ought but still his mercy Aug. Ser. 53. de Verb. Dom. for God in his mercy saith S. Augustine denieth such things which he could not grant but in wrath Be grateful for so great a benefit and serve your self of it by a due and constant use in all your occasions Of the benefit of Prayer Part 3. Eccli 18.23 COnsider 1. That of the wise man Before prayer prepare thy soul This preparation consisteth 1. In an humble heart towards God acknowledging our sins and unworthiness to appear in his sight as did the Publican and Centurion for God hath had respect to the prayer of the humble Ps 101.18 and he hath not despised their Petition And the prayer of him that humbleth himself shall penetrate the Clouds Eccl. 35.19 2. In peace and charity with our Neighbour pardoning all injuries and offences When you shall stand to pray Mar. 11.25 forgive if you have ought against any man c. 3. In putting off all hardness of heart towards the needy for as the wise man saith He that stoppeth his ear at the cry of the poor Pro. 21.13 himself also shall cry and shall not be heard Mat. 6.6 Consider 2. In our prayer we must observe what Christ requireth in those words When thou shalt pray enter into thy chamber and having shut the door pray to thy father in secret c. That is we must retire our selves from all distracting objects and shut the doors of our senses We must also pray in spirit Jo. 4.23 and verity that is with a serious and earnest application of mind intending from our heart what we outwardly express in words that we may not be in the number of those of whom the Prophet This people honoreth me with their lips Mat. 15.8 but their heart is far from me We must finally bring a lively faith and confidence All things whatsoever you ask praying saith Christ believe that you shall receive Mar. 11.24 and they shall come unto you Consider 3. The grounds of this confidence which are chiefly three 1. The love of the Eternal Father towards us For as Christ said Jo. 16.27 The Father himself loveth you and who of his own accord bestowed his only Son upon us will not stick to grant us upon earnest entreaty lesser blessings 2. The Merits and Passion of Christ who is our Mediator and Advocate and assures us Jo. 14.13 Whatsoever we shall ask in his name that he will do 3. The intercession which the Divine Spirit himself doth make for us who as the Apostle saith Rom. 8.26 requesteth for us with groanings unspeakable On the Feast of our Lords Ascension Arise be illuminated Jerusalem upon thee shall our Lord arise and his glory shall be seen upon thee Is 60.1 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the King of Glory Ps 46.6 COnsider 1. Christ is often in the Scripture called the King of Glory and this day in triumphant manner he ascended the highest Heavens in great Glory and Majesty God is ascended in Jubilation and our Lord in the voice of Trumpet He is the Fountain whence Glory is derived to all the blessed and the several gifts of grace to the faithful but especially in this day of his Triumph as great Princes are wont in like occasions he prodigally
shall not extinguish c. He shall not be sad nor turbulent And S. Peter 1 Pet. 2.23 who when he was reviled did not revile when he suffered he threatned not but delivered himself to him that judged him unjustly And of himself he saith Mat. 11.29 Learn of me because I am meek and humble of heart Think how you may imitate the same Eccli 3.19 Consider 3. The Reward For they shall possess the Land to wit of their own heart being Masters of their own passions and also of the hearts of others according to that Son do thy works in meekness and thou shalt be beloved above the glory of men Lastly they shall possess the Land of Promise Ps 36.11 and Everlasting Inheritance The meek shall inherit the Land and shall be delighted in multitude of peace Procure therefore to have this Meekness in your life and conversation that you may come also to be delighted in multitude of peace as well with God as with your self and with all the world Of the third Beatitude Mat. 5.5 Blessed are they that Mourn c. Ps 119.5 COnsider 1. This Mourning is threesold 1. Of Compunction for our own sins according to the example of David and S. Peter 2. Of Compassion for others 3. Of Devotion for our banishment in this world our separation from God and our longing desire after him Woe is to me that my sejourning is prolonged This Spiritual Mourning doth not wholly consist in afflicting the mind but also in refusing such things as bring pleasure and delight with them Whence the wise man Eccles 2.2 Laughter I have reputed error and to Joy I have said why art thou deceived in vain Think on the contrary how greedily you seek after your own content and satisfaction in all things Prov. 2.14 and perhaps also rejoyce in most wicked things Consider 2. The example of Christ our Lord of whom S. Chrysostome writeth Chrysost Hom. 6. in Mat. Eccles 7.5 You will often find Christ weeping but never laughing And Salomon saith The heart of wise men where sadness is and the heart of fools where mirth Think therefore how reasonable it is you should imitate the example of so great a Master and rank your self with wise men rather then with fools Mat. 5.5 Consider 3. The Reward For they shall be comforted both in this life with Divine Illustrations and with the testimony of a good conscience but more to the full in the life to come where they shall be inebriated with the plenty of Gods House Ps 35.9 and be made drink of the torrent of his pleasure Wherefore lament your own and your Neighbours sins for those that sow in tears shall reap in joy On the contrary Luc. 6.25 Woe to you that do now laugh because you shall mourn and weep And in the Apocalyps it is said Apoc. 18.7 So much as she hath glorified her self and hath been in delicacies so much give her torment and mourning Of the fourth Beatitude Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after Justice Mat. 5.6 c. 1 Cor. 1.30 COnsider 1. To hunger and thirst after Justice hath these proper Acts The first is to desire all things without exception to be fulfilled which are of Justice and obligation towards God and our Neighbour The second to desire more and more our Progress in Virtue The third that this same Justice be in all the world and that all may purchase and conserve it The fourth to hunger after Christ our Lord who is our Justice and Sanctification as the Apostle witnesseth both Sacramentally and Spiritually by a lively faith and interiour gust Think how you are in these points and whether you do not rather loath these and thirst only after worldly delights Jo. 4.34 Jo. 19.28 Consider 2. The example of Christ who all his life time sought after nothing else then to do the will of his Father according to that My meat is to do the will of him that sent me And hanging upon the Cross he said I thirst to wit the Salvation of Mankind for whom he shed his blood Such ought to be your hunger and thirst not that of the wicked that serve their bellies Consider 3. The Reward Mat. sup For they shall have their fill God affording them special graces and spiritual comforts in this life and replenishing them to the full with the clear Vision of himself in the suture according to that Ps 16.15 I shall be filled when thy glory shall appear Think how much this heavenly Saturity is to be wished for which never cloyeth though it lasteth for all Eternity See whether you had rather have your fill in this life or in the next it will not be afforded in both in one you must suffer hunger Of Holy Communion Hear me O Lord because thy mercy is benigne Ps 68.17 Luc. 19.41 Consider Christ as a Mercisul Lord. COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Gospel how that Christ wept upon Hierusalem for God is very sensible of our miseries and compassionate and is therefore called by the Apostle The Father of Mercies and often 2 Cor. 1.3 Infra Heb. 4.15 The merciful and pittiful Lord For the Apostle saith speaking of Christ that we have a High-Priest who can have compassion on our infirmities wherefore you may justly comfort your self in this that this same merciful Lord will come to day into your Soul to powre out the riches of his Mercy upon her Ps 110.4 5 Consider 2. The Mercy of God towards men never shewed it self more in any work then in the Eucharist therefore David cryeth out He hath made a memory of his marvellous works a merciful and pittiful Lord he hath given meat to them that fear him Think what a mercy this is to feed us with his own Flesh and make us drink of his Blood Who ever did so much for his greatest friend Lay open therefore confidently the miseties of your Soul when he cometh to you and beseech him to afford redress Consider 3. You must have great care when he comes unto you that you give him not occasion of weeping upon you as he did upon Hierusalem Because thou hast not known the time of thy Visitation Luc. sup 44 He doth often visit us by holy Inspirations by good books c. and thereby incites us to perfection See how you correspond least there may be the same reason to say of you For the daies shall come upon thee and thy Enemies shall compass thee with a Trench V. 43. c. and by Sin beat thee flat to the ground Of the fifth Beatitude Blessed are the Merciful Mat. 5.7 c. COnsider 1. Mercy comprehendeth fourteen sorts of actions which are called Works of Mercy seven Spiritual and seven Corporal The Acts of this Virtue that they may be perfect must 1. Extend themselves to all without exception even our Enemy 2. Lay hold
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
that of the Evangelist as spoken unto you by him Luc. 17.8 Make ready supper and gird thy self Consider 2. This Divine Guest feedeth as the H. Fathers teach upon our Virtues Ambr. de bon Mor. c. 5. Bern. sup Cant. Serm 71. Cant. 1.12 Bern. Ser. 4. de Assump Gen. 27.9 but above all he is delighted with humility and therefore while he was at Table to day with the Pharisee he taught us to chuse the lowest place in Banquets And the Spouse in the Canticles saith While the King was at his repose my Spikenard gave the odour thereof The Spikenard is a low plant saith S. Bernard and Embleme of Humility Therefore be careful to prepare such meat for your Guest as you know he gladly eateth and humble your self what you can in all things Consider 3. The Liberality of this your Guest who wheresoever he cometh bringeth with him gifts and pledges of his bounty So this day in the house of the Pharisee he cured one sick of the Dropsie And if you look well into your self perchance you will find that you are taken with the same Disease that is full of waterish humours of worldly affections whereof an evident sign is the burning thirst you have after things that are delightful to sense Beseech therefore your Divine Guest to rid you of this Dropsie and say with the Psalmist Save me O God Ps 68.2 because waters are entred into my Soul Of the Man sick of the Palsey Jo. 5.2 c. cured at the Pond of Probatica Part 1. Ps 50.21 COnsider 1. What a benefit God bestowed on the Jews in the Pond of Probatica near the Temple wherin the sheep were washed for Sacrifice For 1. The Water was stirred by an Angel 2. It received thereby virtue to cure all manner of diseases in them that entred first after the motion This was a Type of the Sacraments of Baptisme and Penarce wherein Christs Sheep are washed for the Sacrifice of Justice and the which 1. Have a heavenly virtue infused into them by the Angel of the Testament Christ our Lord. 2. They cleanse us from all manner of sin 3. Not only the first comers but all and every one without any exception or cessation Ponder the greatness of this benefit and endeavour to make due use of these Divine Ponds Ps 39.2 Consider 2. At this Pond lay a great multitude of sick persons of blind lame withered expecting the stirring of the Water So God will have us to expect with patience his gifts whence David said Expecting I expected our Lord and he hath attended to me Among other infirm persons there was a certain man there that had been eight and thirty years in his infirmity of the Palsey The Spiritual Palsey is a dissolution of the Nerves and Faculties of the Soul a defect of spiritual vigour and life and as it were a deading of the Spirit See how many years you may reckon in this infirmity and seek remedy by the Baths of the Holy Sacraments Consider 3. The goodness of Christ freely inviting the sick man to his own cure Wilt thou be made whole God can justifie us by himself alone but will not do it without our consent He made you saith S. Augustine without your knowledge but he justifieth you with your consent August Ser. 15. de Verb. Apost See whether you will that is efficaciously be made whole for God is ever ready on his part Of the man sick of the Palsey Jo. 5.7 c. cured at the Pond Part 2. COnsider 1. Lord I have no man c. He confessed his impotency for that he could neither move of himself to get down time enough into the Pond nor had any man to help him whence he presently received health of Christ for the humble confession of our own weakness is the best disposition to obtain Gods assistance Perhaps you have cause to say of your self I have no man that is I have not the heart nor courage of a man to overcome my self though truly you have one of Christ our Lord who is ready to raise you up with his Grace You have also Preachers Superiours and Directors to admonish you and if you will your self also to help you Ps 34.3 Consider 2. The efficacy of Christs words wherewith without more ado he cured the sick man Arise take up thy bed and walk c. O Lord speak so likewise to me Say to my Soul I am thy Salvation Ponder the mans obedience who presently arose up and though it were the Sabboth day took his bed upon his shoulders and so walked giving us a perfect example of blind obedience Do you therefore if you be sound carry your bed take up the light Yoke of our Lord and walk not in high and strange things Gen. 17.1 above your self but with Abraham before or in the sight of God and be perfect 2 Pet. 2.22 Consider 3. Christ after he had wrought the Miracle shrunk aside from the multitude to give us example of shunning the applause of men Afterwards Jesus findeth him in the Temple and said to him Behold thou art made whole sin no more lest some worse thing chance to thee Imagine the same to be spoken to you as often as you go to the Sacrament of Penance Return not back like the dog to the vomit or the sow washed into her wallowing in the mire Of the Bed-rid let down from the Roof Mat. 9. Mar. 2. Luc. 5. Part 1. Mar. 2.2 COnsider 1. There were gathered together a great multitude to hear Christ in the house where he was so that there was no place no not at the door and he spake to them the Word Observe our Lords indefatigable Zeal of gaining Souls not sparing himself at any time or place but freely admitting and instructing all even with open doors that you might learn to bestow your self 2 Cor. 12.15 and to be bestowed again with the Apostle for the souls of your Brethren Luc. 5.18 Consider 2. And behold men carrying in a bed a man that had the Palsey c. and not finding on which side they might bring him in for the multitude they went up upon the Roof and through the Tiles let him down with the bed in the midst before Jesus Admire their Faith whereby they undoubtedly believed that Christ would cure him so that they refused no pains to bring him to him Observe moreover their courage and resolution in not yielding to the difficulties that hindered their free access but breaking their way through all so that they accomplished their desire Bonav in Luc. 5. A true firm belief saith S. Bonaventure is not brought back or cooled by impediments but inflamed See how you are in like occasions and how easily you leave off for fear Consider 3. The Mercy of Christ saying Son thy sins are forgiven thee Mat. 9.3 Hieron in c. 9. Mat. O wonderful Humility saith S. Hierom a decrepid
and despicable poor man be calleth Son whom the Priests vouchsafed not to touch Observe how he remitteth his sins which were cause of his infirmity to teach you that diseases are inflicted also for hidden sins and that when you are sick you must first seek your Souls cure then that of your body Of the Bed-rid let down from the Roof Mat. 9. Mar. 2. Luc. 5. Part 2. Luc. 5.21 COnsider 1. The Pharisees murmuring Who is this that speaketh blasphemies Who can forgive sins but only God Condole with Christ for being held a Blasphemer and be not troubled if at any time you be treated below your deserts Observe Christs mildness he is not moved to indignation he seeketh not to revenge himself as he could most easily have done but sweetly endeavoureth to bring them out of their erreur Wherefore think you evil in your hearts Mat. 9.4 Consider 2. Christ in proof of his Divinity and power of forgiving sins presently cured the man and sent him away free of his Palsey saying Arise take up thy bed Ibid. Luc. 5.24 and go into thy house Your house and home is Heaven here you are but a Stranger and Passenger therefore hasten home and settle your thoughts cares and desires there where you are to dwell for ever Eccles 12.5 August in Ps 85. Man shall go saith the wise man into the house of his Eternity and S. Augustine A House is taken as it were for ever a Nest is made up but for a time Do not therefore make more of your dirty brittle Nest then of your stable Mansion House Consider 3. The man being cured Luc. sup went into his house magnifying God It is the proper effect of spiritual health to magnifie God and to give him thanks for benefits received Do you also magnifie God as often as you are dismissed in the Sacrament of Penance free from the dead Palsey of Sin say with David I will bless our Lord at all time Ps 33.2 his praise always in my mouth Of the Withered Hand cured Mat. 12. Mar. 3. Luc. 6. Luc. 6.6 Ps 143.8 COnsider 1. It came to pass on another Sabboth that be entered into the Synagogue and taught And there was a man and his right hand was withered c. Our most merciful Lord taketh hold of all occasions of converting Souls wherefore on the Sabboth days he frequented the Synagogues that being then gathered together he might the better reach them heavenly things In the Synagogue he found a man whose right hand was withered for many there are even in Gods Church that have their left hands ready for mischief but their right hands withered and unable to do any good And their right hand is the right hand of Iniquity See whether your hand be not thus withered Mat. 12.13 Consider 2. Then he saith to the man stretch forth thy hand and he stretched it forth and it was restored to health Our Lord could as easily have done the Cure without stretching forth but he will have us also to co-operate in our own behalf according to that of the Prophet Zachar. 1.3 Convert to me c. and I will convert to you Stretch forth therefore your hand to good works to help your Brother and in frequent prayer to God and you will undoubtedly obtain perfect health Eccles 9.10 Whatsoever thy hand is able to do work it instantly saith the wise man Ps 2.4 Consider 3. The Scribes and Pharisees having seen the Miracle whereas by benefit thereof they might have wrought their own salvation they took occasion thereby out of envy to contrive Christs death But he that dwelleth in the Heavens shall laugh at them And Christ although he could have destroyed them in a moment yet he chose rather to bear with them and withdraw himself for the time to another place to teach you meekness Of the crooked Woman cured Luc. 13.11 c. Dan. 13.9 COnsider 1. Christ being again in the Synagogue according to his custome Behold a Woman that had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years and she was crooked neither could she look upward at all This infirmity was caused by the Devil as Christ himself witnesseth and this either in punishment of sin as it was in Giezi's Lepre or by Gods permission for exercise of her virtue as it happened to Blessed Job Mystically the Devil causeth the like crookedness in all those souls which he makes to stoop down to worldly things and keeps them so fixedly bent upon them that they cannot look up nor raise their thoughts to Heaven Of such it is said They declined their eyes that they would not see Heaven nor remember just judgments See whether you be not likewise crookedly bent in your works and intentions Consider 2. The Mercy of Christ of his own accord calling the Woman to him and curing her Woman thou art delivered from thy infirmity And the effect presently seconded his Omnipotent word for having imposed his hands upon her she was forthwith made straight and glorified God Observe and imitate this Womans gratitude who as soon as she saw her self cured glorified God See how much more reason you have to be ever grateful and to glorifie God who healeth all thine infirmities Ps 102.3 say with David My strength and my praise is our Lord and he is made unto me a Salvation This is my God Exod. 15.2 and I will glorifie him Is 51.7 8. Consider 3. The perverse Zeal of the Arch-Synagogue who had indignation that Jesus had cured on the Sabboth as if it were not lawful to do a good work although not servile on the Sabboth day Thus many pretend Zeal for their passions Procure to do all your actions with a sincere and upright intention as in the sight of God and you will not fear what judgments men pass upon them Fear ye not the reproach of men and be not afraid of their blasphâ—mies for as a garment so shall the worm eat them and as wooll so shall the Moth devoure them Of Holy Communion Behold my Beloved speaketh to me Arise make hast my Love c. and come Cant. 2.10 Consider Christ as your Souls Love Cant. 5.2 COnsider 1. What is commanded in this daies Gospel Thou shalt love the Lord thy God from thy whole heart and with thy whole soul and with thy whole mind c. Mat. 22.37 God would be our Souls Love therefore he often calleth them his Beloved his Spouses his Sisters Open to me my Sister my Love my Dove c. And because love is gained by love Let us therefore love God 1 Jo. 4.19 because God first hath loved us Who hath loved us and washed us from our sins in his blood Apoc. 1.5 Never any Mother loved her Child so tenderly nor Spouse his Beloved as God doth Man making himself 1. His Companion 2. His Food 3. His Ransom And lastly his Everlasting Reward so that he
must put off all carnal and worldly affection and with all submission hearken to his interiour inspirations Incline thine ear and forget thy people and the house of thy father saith the Royal Prophet and the king will covet thy beauty Morn Ent. I will arise and go to my father Luc. 15.17 The second Sunday after All-Saints Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as your Father Is 40.15 COnsider 1. Almighty God although he be infinitely powerful and rich and in respect of whom all creatures are as a drop of bucket and as a moment of a balance yet he disdaineth not to be called and to be truly our Father and what is more Call none father to your self upon earth Mat. 23.9 saith Christ for one is your father he that is in heaven And Christ himself by a special title would be stiled by the Prophet Father of the world to come Is 9.6 and not content with that he also taketh upon him something more then the affection even of a mother for if she should forget her infant yet will not I faith he forget thee Is 49.15 Ponder how excellently Christ performeth both these offices not onely begetting us to a spiritual life but also feeding and nourishing us with his own precious body and bloud Ps 102.13 Consider 2. How you like the prodigal child have foolishly left so loving and so rich a father and gone after the swine of this world yet he is still ready to receive you again and clothe you with the first robe for as a father hath compassion of his children saith David so hath our Lord compassion on them that fear him because he hath known our making He expects you to day in the Eucharist with open arms to embrace you and to give you his blessing so you do but worthily dispose your self Luc. 15.18 Consider 3. The best disposition will be 1. An humble begging of pardon Father I have sinned against heaven and before thee 2. A firm resolution of never more going from him but striving with all your endeavour to imitate the perfection of your heavenly Father according to that of the Apostle Ephes 5.1 Be ye followers of God as most dear children Wherefore with a filial confidence represent unto your Father when he cometh all your necessities Luc. 11.13 for if fathers know bow to give good gifts to their children how much more will your Father from Heaven give a good Spirit to them that ask him Who shall give to me thee my brother sucking the breasts of my mother that I may finde thee without and kiss thee Cant. 8.1 Heb. 2.11 The third Sunday after All-Saints Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as your Brother Matt. 28.10 COnsider 1. Christ to make us the more sensible of his love towards us took upon him not onely the name of Father but also that of a Brother that so by a certain equality which is wont to be between brothers he might the more familiarly insinuate himself unto us for the which cause he is not ashamed saith the Apostle to call us brethren saying I will declare thy name to my brethren and after his resurrection Go tell my brethren saith he that they go into Galiles Think what an honour it is to be brother to so great a Prince And if the brother that is holpen of brother is as the Wise-man saith as a strong city Prov. 18.19 what comfort and help may you expect from such a brother Gen. 37.28 Consider 2. Your unhumane dealing with Christ who have sold him not for twenty pieces of silver as did the sons of Jacob their brother Joseph but perhaps for some slight or filthy pleasure And even like another Cain you have murthered this Brother Abel of yours by your sins Gen. 4.8 and nailed him on the Cross And yet he forgetting and forgiving all invites you to himself Gen. 45.4 18. saying with Joseph I am Joseph your brother c. fear not Come to me and I will give you all the good things of Egypt that you may eat the marrow of the land and what is the marrow of the land but his precious Body and Blood The corn of the elect Zach. 9.17 and wine springing Virgins Consider 3. How you are to go meet this Brother of yours Imitate Jacob who went with presents to meet his enraged brother Esau Gen. 33.10 Ps 50.19 Gen. 42.21 Let your presents be 1. A contrite and humbled heart which he will not despise 2. A firm purpose of not sinning any more against your brother 3. A desire of imitating his vertues that by the likeness of your life and behaviour to his he may appear to be what truly he is Rom. 8.29 the first-born in many brethren The master is come and calleth thee Jo. 11.28 The fourth Sunday after All-Saints Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as your Master Is 5.20 COnsider 1. What ignorance men are in especially of heavenly things and appertaining to their Salvation We often call evil good and good evil putting darkness light and light darkness We commonly make Vertues of our Vices and Vertue we hate as folly Therefore the Wisdom of the Eternal Father came down from Heaven to be unto us a Master to teach us the way of truth You call me Master and Lord Jo. 13.13 saith he and you do well for I am so Colos 2.3 Consider 2. How willingly you ought to hearken to this Master in whom be all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge hid The prime incitement of learning saith St. Ambrose is the excellency of the Master Ambr. l. 2. de Virg. What more excellent then Christ our Lord who is Truth it self and can neither deceive nor be deceived The Queen of the South Matt. 12.42 c. came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Salomon and behold more then Salomon here and here in the Eucharist he is ready to teach you the Science of Saints and of Salvation if you come rightly disposed Sap. 1.4 Consider 3. There is required due preparation on your part that you may deserve to hear with profit the Wisdom of this heavenly Master for he will have his Schollars to be 1. Pure from all sin Because wisdom will not enter into a malicious soul nor dwell in a body subject to sins 2. Humble and little in their own eyes Thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent Matt. 11.25 and hast revealed them to little ones 3. Well mortified and taken off from worldly things Whom shall he teach knowledge and whom shall he make to understand the thing heard If. 28.9 Them that are weaned from the milk that are plucked away from the breasts See therefore you be thus disposed when you go to him Of Mans last End The first Part. Prov. 16. â— COnsider 1. What you were some hundred years ago just nothing and so
as is said in Genesis And the same shall be the expectation of qhe Gentiles and by Prophet The desired of all Nations shall come And with good reason for that he was to bring light to them that sate in darknesse and shadow of death sight to the blind going to the lame hearing to the deaf as we have in this days Gospel Mat. 1.21 and finally Salvation to all For He shall save his people from their sins Is 12.2 Consider 2. This same Messias and expectation of the Gentiles will come unto you this day in the Eucharist to save you to free you from your iniquities to cure your infirmities and to heap upon you the gifts of his Grace and Vertues O what a benefit is this Behold God is my Saviour saith Isaie I will do confidently and will not fear Do you also confidently disclosing and giving your self up wholly unto him Consider 3. Against his coming you must exercise your self beforehand in fervent desires and many longing sighs after him for therefore he is called the expectation of the Gentiles Gen. sup v. 10. 26. Ps 39.1 and the desire of the eternal hills that is of the holy Patriarchs and Prophets Hence David Expecting I expected our Lord and he hath attended to me Expect him therefore with an ardent desire Prepare and cleanse the Jodging of your Soul lest otherwise being defiled and polluted with sin you offend his pure eyes and bring upon your self a curse for a blessing Gen. 27.12 Of the Annunciation of the B. Virgin And first of sending the Angel Luc. 1.26 THe Angel was sent of God into a City of Galilee called Nazareth to a Virgin c. Consider 1. What an Embassage this is Never was there in the world any thing so Solemn He that sendeth is the God of Majesty the most holy and divine Trinity The Messenger is Gabriel the Arch-angel which is as much as to say Fortitude or strength to signifie that what Message he brought though it might seem never so difficult or impossible must be fulfilled See how promptly he taketh and executeth the charge imposed upon him and imitate in like occasions Jo. 1.46 Consider 2. To whom he is sent What man if he had seen such an Embassadour dispatched immediately from God himself coming down from Heaven into this lower world would not have thought him sent to some great Monarch and yet he is sent to a City of no account From Nazareth can there be any good to a little Cottage and to a poor Virgin espoused to a Carpenter Be ashamed that you should so miserably love and seek after such things as appear great and specious in the sight of the world Correct this affection in your self and know that you are in a grosse errour Consider 3. The substance of the Embassie was to require the Virgins consent to be Mother of God God hath right to exact any thing of his Creature yet he will have our duties towards him to be voluntary He that created you without you saith St. Augustine will not save you without you Oh how often doth God send unto you invisible Angels his holy Inspirations to gain your good will that he may be conceived spiritually in your heart and you refuse him Ask pardon and To day if you shall hear his voice Ps 94.8 harden not your heart Luc. 1.28 c. Of the Angels Salutation ANd the Angel being entred in c. Consider 1. The grave comportment of the Angel the modesty of his countenance and his reverence towards the Virgin and learn to carry your self like an Angel in your conversation with men but much more with God in prayer Hail full of Grace by excellency and above all other pure creatures Think what you are full of whether of Grace and Vertue or not rather of Pride Vanity Self-love c. Our Lord is with thee by a special presence and effects of his Grace and she again with him in her thoughts desires and affections O what a happy communication Examine your actions and affections and see how much or little they are with God Consider 2. The Person of the Virgin what she did and what she thought at that time she was alone praying in her chamber as the holy Fathers teach that you might learn to entertain your self with God and in solitude if you desire to be visited by him She was troubled at his saying to wit at her own praises which the Angel uttered and which whosoever is truly humble refuseth as not belonging to him but to God alone She thought what manner of Salutation this should be most prudently examining every thing with her self lest she might be deluded O that Eve had so carefully weighed the Serpents words Consider 3. How different are your proceedings who perhaps in every occasion seek your own praises and applaud your self when you hear them spoken of by others and not content to be commended by other mens mouths you do it by your own When you hear such things as are pleasing to sense you think not with your self what manner of proposition this should be but you presently set your heart upon it and seek to obtain it Wherefore first prudently sound the bottom of the water or whatsoever affair before you enter upon it and as the Wiseman adviseth Let thine â—ydids go before thy steps Prov. 4.25 Luc. 1.30 c. Of the Delivery of the Message Esth 2.17 FEar not Mary c. Behold thou shult conceive in thy womb c. Consider 1. How the Angel taketh away all fear from the Virgin it being the property of a good Spirit to bring peace and security to the Soul Fear not Mary for thou hast found grace with God for true joy and security is only to be found in the Grace of God not in the pleasures of the world wherein perhaps you seek it most This grace the Virgin found above all other creatures so that it may be said of her what was said of Esther The King loved her more then all the women and she had grace and mercy before him above all the women Coloss 2.9 Consider 2. The message he cometh to bring Thou shalt bear a Son and thou shalt call his name Jesus that is Saviour He shall be great by Nature as being God by Office for that he is to be Mediatour between God and man in Gifts for that in him is to dwell the fulness of the Godhead corporally He shall be the Son not adoptive as all the Just are but natural of the most High He shall have the Seat of David his father but in a more eminent degree And he shall reign in the house of Jacob that is in the Church of the faithful for ever Rejoyce for the happy news of your Saviour and congratulate with the Mother for the greatnesse of her Son Consider 3. With St. Bernard these words Bern. hom 4 He shall reign in the house
Citty At other times he used to goe on foot to the places where he Preached now he would be carried though not in a Chariot nor on a Sumptuous horse but on the back of a filly Asse whereby he would manifest to the world that Poverty Humility and Meekness are the proper Ensignes of his Kingdom Whence the Prophet Rejoyce greatly O daughter of Sion c. Behold thy King will come to thee the Just and Saviour himself poor and riding upon an Asse c. Hym. Vexilla Consider 2. Our Saviour would enter after that unusual manner 1. To shew with what alacrity he went to dye as if he were going to a Kingdom as indeed he was for on the tree God possessed his raign 2. To teach us to triumph in the midst of reproches and contempts 3. That the Ignominy of his Passion might be so much the greater by how much the greater was his precedent glory And being exalted Ps. 87.16 saith the Prophet I am humbled and troubled Mat. 21.15 Consider 3. The Acclamations of the people Hosanna to the Son of David c. Where ponder first that this cry was of the mean and common sort of people not of the rich or wise men of the world from whom these mysteries were kept hidden Secondly how different was this acclamation from that wherein soon after they cryed out Crucify Luc. 23.21 Crucify him How inconstant and deceitful is the favour of the world which you notwithstanding doe regard and value so much but if you be wise God forbid that you should glory Gal. 6.14 saving in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ Of Christs solemn Enterance into Jerusalem and his Weeping upon the Citty Part 2. Ps. 61.11 COnsider 1. Christ in the midst of that Triumph drawing neerer to the Citty wept for it 1. To shew that he was not and that we ought not to be transported with like honours when they are done us but if riches or honours abound set not your heart upon them 2. Out of Charity he bewailed the blindness of the Jews which he knew would prove to be their ruine 3. To give us example of weeping and lamenting in this vale of teares for we read of him to have wept several times but not ever to have laughed and to have provnounced them Blessed that mourn Mat. 5.5 Luc. 19.42 43. Consider 2. Christs words upon the Citty Because if thou also hadst known c. Thou wouldst surely weep For the days shall come upon thee and thy enemies shall compasse thee c. Take these words as spoken to your self for that if you did but know and that in this thy day the things that appertain to thy peace and what were to befall you hereafter what temptations what miseries what falls you would certainly weep and spend the time you enjoy at present more profitably Doe it therefore now with all diligence and fortify your self so that you be not hereafter overcome and cast down by your spiritual enimies Luc. sup Consider 3. Christ assigneth the cause of the Citties ruine to this Because thou hast not known the time of thy Visitation How greatly doth it import to know the time wherein God doth visit you by his holy inspirations by pious books c. exciting you to Vertue to the contempt of the world and the like Endevor therefore to understand the time of your Visitation Ps. 94.8 And even in this very day that is in this looser time of Shrovetide if you shall hear his voice harden not your heart but goe follow him Betake your self to prayer and deplore the general not and folly of men in these days Mat. 26. Luc. 22. Christ is sold by Judas for thirty pieces of Silver Ambr. l. 5. in Luc. c. 6. COnsider 1. Christ could many ways have been delivered up into the hands of the Jews but for the greater ignominy would be sold and that by his own Disciple and whom himself made choice of for an Apostle that we might learn to beare with false brethren and that there is no place or state of life so holy that is not in danger of falling He was not ignorant that it would be held a foul disgrace to his school notwithstanding he chose him for an Apostle for our instruction And In that point as S. Ambrose saith he had rather have his judgement called in question by us then his affection Mat. 26.14 Consider 2. To what a height of madnes the Spirit of Avarice doth bring a man What will you give me and I will deliver him unto you Ponder who it is that is sold It is the Lord and God of all things For how much for thirty pieces of Silver for which scarce any labouring beast or slave can be had At so easy a rate is sold the Soveraign of the World so vilely is he undervalued By whom By his own beloved Disciple To whom To his mortall and sworn enemies Compassionâ—â— your Lord and disdain not at any time to be treated below your deserts and quality Pro. 10.23 Consider 3. How often you have sold the same Lord for less while you have parted with him for some petty delight for a sinful thought for a detracting word and the like Think how many there are this time of Shroâ—etide that doe the same over and overagain and out of extream folly and madness set God to sale for trifles A fool worketh mischief as it were by laughter Saith Solomon Look that you be none of them and endeavor to appease Gods wrath against them that doe so Marc. 14. Luc. 22. Of the Paschal Lamb. Marc. 14.15 COnsider 1. Christ the day before he suffered to teach us perfect Obedience to the Laws of God would eat the Paschal Lamb with his Disciples sending before Peter and John Faith and Charity to prepare a room which was a Great chamber adorned Such ought to be your Soul enlarged with Charity and adorned with all manner of Vertue as often as you entertain Christ in Holy Communion Ponder how Christ being sate down with his Disciples sayd to them Luc. 22.15 with desire I have desired to eate this Pasch with you before I suffer Admire the excess of his love towards us longing for the time wherein he was to leave us his pretious body and bloud and to suffer and dye for us O that you were so desirous of occasions to doe and suffer for him Exod. 12. Consider 2. How religiously Christ observeth all the Ceremonies and Rites ordained by the Law for the eating of the Paschal Lamb In each of them reflecting upon himself and his Passion whereof it was a representative figure Christ our Pasch saith the Church is immolated In Praef. Pasch for he is the true Lamb that taketh away the sins of the world Behold therefore Christ with his Disciples standing at the table girded about the reines with shoes on feet and staves
in the head of his enemies to deliver him up into their hands Learn not to rely much on gifts bestowed gratis and without deserts of which the more you have the more you also have to answer for and the greater cause to feare Houle thou firre tree saith the Prophet because the Cedar is fallen c. If an Apostle fell why may not you likewise fall Ps. 21.17 Consider 2. And with him a great multitude with swords and clubs Behold the wicked Rout see how they come all armed with malice and prepared to work their wicked ends upon Jesus contriving with themselves by the way the manner of laying hold on him and securing him from escape How Judas giveth them a signe saying whomsoever I shall kiss that is he hold him Think what fright the Apostles were in at the noise of the Souldiers Then was truly fullfilled that of the Prophet Many dogs have compassed me the counsell of the malignant have besieged me Consider 3. Christ did not fly nor render himself invisible as easily he might 4 Reg. 1.10 Jo. 18.4 not called fire from Heaven to consume his enemies as did Elias but with an undaunted courage and desireous of dying for you went forth towards them See you be grateful and learn Constancy in adversity and not to avoid occasions of suffering for Christ but rather with courage and resolution to meet and entertain them Mat. 26.49 c. Of Judas his Kiss Ps. 54.22 COnsider 1. And forthwith Judas coming to Jesus he said Haile Rabbi and he kissed him Ponder the Impudency of this treacherous disciple He fawnes upon his Master to destroy him Such are the allurements of the world They seem kisses but truly are so many darts His words are made softer then oyle and the same are darts How many are there that with outward signes of devotion fondly fawne upon our Lord while they carry about them a treacherous mind how many again that have nothing but fair words and honey in their mouths while their heart is full of gall poisâ—n and rancor against their neighbour See you be none of these but above all take heed you give not Christ such a kiss in the Sacrament Consider 2. Christs admirable Meekness and Charity He upbraideth not teprocheth not refuseth not but receiveth the Kiss and speaketh friendly to him Saying Friend whereto art thou come if so at least he might win him to repentance he calleth him friend to make him one he asketh what he cometh for that entering into himself he might come to understand the enormity of his fact in so fouly betraying his best Friend and Benefactor his Master his Lord and God See how mercifully God doth seek to reclaim Sinners and learn with what mildness you ought to behave your self to your brother that injureth you Luc. 22.48 Consider 3. Those other words Judas with a kiss doest thou betray the Son of Man What stony heart would not these words mollify and yet they move him not We condemn Judas for his hard heart but little reflect that we are often guilty of the same while we are nothing moved by the inspirations of God and checks of our own conscience crying out with a loud voice What do you do will you sin will you offend God c. It was a circumstance highly aggravating Judas his sin to make the kiss of peace an instrument of his treason What then will it be to turn by abuse the gifts of Grace into instruments of Gods offence and our own damnation Take warning therefore in time Christ casteth his Enemies on the ground and is taken Jo. 18.4.5 COnsider 1. Jesus having asked the Souldiers whom seek ye They answered him Jesus of Nazareth Jesus Saith to them I am he and thereby cast them on the ground to give them a testimony of his divinity and to shew that he could not be apprehended unless he had pleased Ponder how those words I am are of singular comfort to the Just and signify as much as I am your Father and Protector your Joy and Comfort your wisdom your Justice your Sanctification and Redemption c. It is I feare ye not Mat. 14 2â— But to the wicked they are full of terror threatning wrath indignation punishment revenge and damnation If now therefore they strike such terrour into his enemies when it was as he said their hour and the power of darkness what will they doe Luc. 22.53 when it will be his day and hour of exercising the power of Judge Jo. 18.6 Consider 2. They went backward and fell to the ground This is a type of obstinat and impenitent Sinners that fall flat on their backs so as not to see or regard their falls Beseech our Lord that if at any time you come to fall it may be upon your face that you may see and acknowledge your fall by Humility and get soon up again by Pennance See how S. Peter draweth his sword and cutteth off the eare of Malchus but Christ reprehendeth him for it forbiddeth all violence and resistance and healeth the servants eare that you should learn to doe good for evill to your enemies Consider 3. Christ having said If you seek me let these go their ways forgetfull of himself solicitous for his Disciples Mar. 26.50 Then they drew â—eer and layd hands on Jesus and held him Behold with what rage those Hell-hounds rush upon the meek lamb buffet kick and beat him with their clubs cast him on the ground and trample over him Good God what a spectacle is this He who sitteth upon the Cherubs Ps. 79.3 is troden under the fecr of the wicked The same doe all Sinners who as S. Paul saith tread the Son of God under foot Heb. 10.29 See you be not one Christ is bound The Disciples fly Jo. 18.12 COnsider 1. Having apprehended Jesus they bound him doubtless with hard cords See how he yeelds his sacred hands and armes to be bound who notwithstanding if he had pleased could more easily then Sampson have broken those cords all in pieces Judic 10.12 as threads of Linnen cloth It was love alone that could fetter those hands which framed the Heavens and wrought wonders on earth Doe you likewise permit your self to be bound with the bands of Charity with the tye of Obedience and obligation of such duties as appartain to the state and condition you live in Eccli 6.25 Thrust thy foot into her fetters and thy neck into her chains saith the wiseman speaking of true wisdom and be not weary of her bands Mar. 14.50 Consider 2. Then his Disciples leaving him all fled Think what a sore affliction it was to Christ to be left so by his friends whereof he often complaineth by his Prophets Ps. 87.9 Thou hast made my familiars far from me they have put me abomination to themselves Ps. 63.3 I have troden the press alone and of the Gentils there is not a
whole Citty Good God! â—ow were the former affronts and insolences redoubled upon him and that of Jeremy verifyed to the full Thren â— 15 All that passed by the way have clapped their hands vpon thee they have hissed and moved their head Luc. 23.10 Consider 2. Christ at first is civily entertained by Herod who hoped to see him work some miracle but our Lord abhorred his lewdness and would not comply with his curiosity nor owe his life which he so much desired to lay down to his favor and courtesy nor return one single word to many of his and though the chiefe Priests and the Scribes stood constantly accusing him he made no answer Admire and imitate the courage and constancy of his mind which could neither be bent by flattery nor overcome with ill usage and learn withall to be reserved and not familiar with persons of a lewd life without certain hopes of gaining them Ibid. Consider 3. And Herod with his army set him at naught and he mocked him putting on him a white garment Ponder how Christ our Lord the eternal wisdom of God is held for a foole and one that out of simplicity had called himself King and is treated as such by the King and his whole Court delighting themselves with flouting and scoffing at him And in this plight he is sent back to Herod and proclamed all along as he went for a foole and fantasticall King Good Lord Is this the way you chuse to cure my pride and confound my arrogancy With how much truth did the Apostle say 1 Cor. 3.18 if any man seeme to be wise among you in this world let him become a foole that he may be wise Barabbas is preferred before Christ Mar. 27.15 COnsider 1. Upon the solemn day the President had accustomed to release unto the people one prisoner whom they would Hence desirous to release Jesus whose innocency was clearer then the Sun he puts him in balance with a most wicked fellow that was guilty both of sedition and murder Offering them their choice whom they would have freed of the two Think what a comparison this was of light with darkness of a murderer with the author of life of a common robber with a most munificent Benefactor and giver of all good And yet Christ disdained it not Luc. 23.18 Consider 2. The foolish and most unjust demand of the people Dispatch him and release us Barabbas It was a foul disgrace and ignominy to be matched with so bare and notorious a Villain but much greater to be set behind him Now was truly fullfilled that of the Propher Ps 21.7 I am a worm and no man a reproch of men and outcast of the people What are the judgements of the world What wise man would rely on them or care whither they praise or reprove The like judgement to that of the Jews you do passe as often as you sin mortally prefering in your heart and affection some momentary delight before an infinit good some vile creature before the Creator and even a Barabbas before Christ Mat. 27.22 Consider 3. Pilat demandeth What shall I doe then with Jesus The people cry out saying Crucify crucify him Luc. 23.21 Think with what Modesty and Patience Christ received these unjust demands not uttering the least word against them Ask your self often this question What will you doe with Jesus Will you Esteeme Love Serve and Honour him as you ought or rather choose to afflict injury and even crucify him a new for no less doe all Sinners Crucifying again as the Apostle saith to themselves the Son of God Heb. 6.6 and making him a mockery Of the Whipping at the Pillar Part 1. Jo. 19.1 COnsider 1. Then therefore Pilat took Jesus and scourged him To the end he might in some part satisfy the rage of the Jews and so set him afterwards at liberty Think notwithstanding how this sentence was 1. Unjust as being pronounced against him who by the Judges own confession was innocent 2. Infamous it being the usual punishment of common slaves 3. Cruel it being decreed purposely to satiate the Jews fury See how readily for all that and how cheerfully Christ doth accept of it saying with the Prophet Ps 37.18 I am ready for scourges And this to satisfy for your Sins Consider 2. So soon as the sentence was given how impudently the Souldiers strip him of his clothes and binde him to the pillar Ponder the Virginal bashfullness and shame our most chast Lord was in to see himself exposed all naked to the view of so great a multitude See with what promptitude of Obedience he stretcheth forth his armes to be bound without making the least complaint or resistance and learn hence how truely meek and humble of heart he is Mat. 11.29 and you ought to be Consider 3. The Grievousness and Cruelty of this scourging 1. In regard of the instruments which are credibly said to have been of three sorts to wit thorny rods hard sinews and Iron chaines 2. By reason of his delicat and tender complexion being also much exhausted with his late bloudy sweat and ill treating restless night and painful journeys of that morning 3. Through the cruel usage of his tormentors who were set on and provoked by the Pharises that stood by 4. For the multitude of stripes which as is gathered out of S. Brigits revelations surmounted the number of five thousand Whereas the law of Moses alowed not full fourty for any Malefactor Therefore Isaie from the sole of the foot to the top of the head Is. 1.6 there is no health in him Of the Whipping at the Pillar Part 2. I Magin your self to see Christ our Lord fast bound to the Pillar with a company of Souldiers round about tyranizing over him with their whips and consider the general Circumstances Who What Where c. Heb. 1.3 Who is he that is tyed to the Pillar The only begotten Son of God The brightness of his glory and the figure of his substance He is higher then Heaven Job 11.8 deeper then Hell The most high Creator omnipotent and mighty King and to be feared exceedingly Eccli 1.8 Sitting upon his throne and the God of dominion Is. 53.4 What He is most unhumanly scourged even to the discovery of his ribs and bones No slave was ever so cruelly handled We have thought him as it were a lepre and strickin of God and humbled Where In the very middle of the world in a most populous Citty in the open Court of the President a whole Legion of Souldiers and an infinit multitude of people looking on Is 63.5 With what helps Destitute of all human assistance There was none to appeare in his defence none to comfort him I looked about saith he by the Prophet and there was no helper I sought and there was none to aide Ps 90.4 Wherefore To satisfy for your sinnes to make a bath of
could not satisfy her mind or affection for no wordly comfort is able to content the soul that truly seeketh God Then Christ himself appeareth but first in the shape of a Gardiner so as she knew him not saying Sir if thou hast carried him away tell me where thou hast laid him and I will take him away Great was the force of her love She excepted no place feared no danger but was ready to seek her Lord upon any termes See whether your love be such Iob. 3.22 Consider 3. Jesus saith to her Mary Our Lord doth often conceale his presence and seemeth to be far off from his servants when he is neer at hand He conceales himself under a disguise the better to try our love and inflame our desires but discovereth himself at last and as Sara said after teares and weeping powreth in joyfullness Beseech our Lord that he would vouchsafe to be so intimate and familiar with you as to call you by your name and speake so to your heart that you may come to know his voice and with B. Magdalen be more and more inflamed with his love Our Lord appeareth to the other Women Mat. 28.9 COnsider 1. While the Holy Women among whom probably was S. Mary Magdalen were in their return from the Sepulcher to the Citty Christ met them in the way and saluted them saying All haile Ponder here the great goodness of our Lord affording comfort in a most seasonable time and not disdaining the weaker fer Ponder also that word All haile which the Angel Gabriel likewise used to the B. Virgin and did work in their hearts what it did outwardly signify O Lord speak so to my Soul Cant. 2.14 Let thy voice sound in my eares for thy voice is sweet and thy face comely Ps 44.8 Consider 2. But they came neer and took hold of his feet and adored him They were permitted to touch and kiss his sacred feet O with what reverence and joy of heart did they doe it In reward of their good desires of anealing his sacred Corps in the Sepulcher they were themselves anointed with the oyle of gladness above their fellowes Learn hence with what affections you ought to embrace not his feet but whole Christ in the Eucharist as often as you frequent it Lay fast hold on your Beloved and let him not goe from you till he hath given you his blessing Gen. 32.26.29 as he did to Jacob. Pro. 18.19 Consider 3. Jesus said to them Feare not goe tell my bretheren c. Admire the sweetness of our Lord in comforting his servants and taking from them all feare Ponder those words My Bretheren bearing a most friendly and sweet name He who was now King of Glory disdained not to call poor ignorant fishermen his bretheren O what a happiness it is to have such a brother Love him therefore as your brother and put your trust in him for if the Brother that is holpen of Brother as the Wise man saith is as a strong Citty how much more he who is holpen of such a Brother Peter and John goe to the Sepulcher and Our Lord appeareth to Peter Luc. 24.11 COnsider 1. The devour Women relate what they had seen at the Sepulcher to the Disciples that were assembled together But it seemed before them as dotage for the Apostles were as yet fixed to sensible things and were not enlightned by the Holy Ghost So the Mysteries of the Cross and Resurrection seeme no better then meer folly to the Wise men of this world Beseech our Lord to enlighten your darkness that you may not dote so miserably with the World Consider 2. Peter and John more desireous then the rest of knowing the truth ran to the Sepulcher entered in looked throughly about and found all as the women had related but neither Angels nor our Lord appeared unto them for their further tryall and for that the relations of others ought to have sufficed By John is signifyed Faith by Peter Charity with both we must seeke Christ if at any time he be taken from us Consider 3. On the same day afterwards Christ appeared as is gathered out of S. Luke unto Peter Ibid. v. 34. who went away marvelling with himself at that which was done And Our Lord hath risea indeed and hath appeared to Simon Thus our Lord would comfort him 1. That he might afterwards confirme others in the same beliefe 2. Because he had already blotted out the Sin of his denyall with due penance and now deserved to receive corsolation 3. Because of all the Disciples he loved Christ most and therefore conceived more griefe then any for his death Learn to beare Christ company in his sufferings that you may rejoyce with him in his Resurrection For Ps. 93.19 according to the multitude of my sorrows in my heart thy consolations have made my Soul Joyfull I will hear what our Lord God will speake in me because he will speake peace upon his people Ps 84.9 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the Prince of Peace Jer. 29.11 Is. 9.6 COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Ghospel how Christ appeared unto the Apostles and thrice imparted unto them his peace saying Peace be to you Jo. 20.19 For he is our peace as the Apostle saith Ephes. 2.14 intending cogitations of peace and not of affliction and therefore among other titles he is called by Isaie the Prince of Peace Gal. 5.17 Consider 2. There are three sorts of peace which we are to procure 1. With God 2. With our Neighbour 3. With out solves for the flesh lusteth against the Spirit and the Spirit against the flesh Ps. 37.4 and therefore David said My bones have no peace And a mans enemies are they of his own houshould to wit Mich. 7.6 his own unlawfull Appetites This threefould peace the Prince and Author of it will bring unto you in the Eucharist if you hinder not for the Eucharist is properly a Pacifick Host between God and us The Simbole and band of Charity between us and our Neighbour Cyril lib. 4. in c. 27. Je. and lastly that which as S. Cyril saith doth restrain the raging tyranny of our members and doth intrench us round about with perfect peace Whence David said Ps. 147.3 He hath set thy borders peace and filleth thee with the fat of corn Levit. 26.6 Consider 3. Christ brought Peace this day to the Arostles when the dores were shut and they assembled together within and in prayer Therefore shut up carefully the gates of your senses and retire your self within the inward closet of your heart and our Lord Will give peace in your coasts You shall sleep and there shall be none to make you affraid But above all purge your self throughly from sin 〈◊〉 48.22 For There is no peace to the impious saith our Lord. Luc. 24.13 Our Lord appeareth to the Disciples going to Emmaus Part. 1. COnsider 1.
holy c. Consider 2. The Holy Ghost appeared over our Lord in the form of a Dove both to express his love towards us for the Dove is a Symbol of sociable love and withall to teach us mildness and simplicity in our life and actions To him likewise are attributed the works of our Justification the distribution of Graces and the benefits of Inspirations and Illuminations The spirit breatheth where he will Jo. 3.8 and thou hearest his voice That you may hence see how much you stand in need of his divine help and protection 1 Cor. 6.19 Consider 3. The Holy Ghost doth not only communicate the gifts of his Grace but also his own substance and person to the Just inhabiting and abiding in them after a special manner as Divines teach according to that of the Apostle Know you not that your members are the Temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you See therefore that you make not his Temple a Den of Thieves by sin Beg of him by continual prayer that he would wash away what is unclean in you Seq in Missa de S. Spiritu water what is dry heal what is wounded bend what is stiff and unruly cherish what is cold and faint and redress whatsoever is amiss Corpus Christi Day He hath made a memory of his admirable works c. He hath given meat to them that fear him Ps 110.4.5 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the Instituter of the most Blessed Sacrament Eccli 39.27 COnsider 1. How much you are bound to Christ for instituting so admirable and beneficial a Mystery from which as from a Fountain all manner of good doth flow For the Eucharist 1. Is properly a sacrifice for our sins 2. Spiritual food to keep us in heart 3. A lively Memorial of our Lords Passion 4. The Spring and Fountain of all grace and virtue His blessing saith Ecclesiasticus hath overflowed as a stream Supra Consider 2. This divine Instuter who several ways had shewed himself wonderful in his other works would in this single one imploy all the treasures of his power and wisdom for in the Eucharist there are discovered 1. His infinite wisdome in inventing so admirable a food 2. The like power in the Transubstantiation of Bread and Wine 3. His goodness in communicating himself and penetrating our very bowels in the nature of meat and drink 4. His liberality in giving himself wholly to each one even to the wicked 5. Patience in permitting himself to be unworthily handled and even trodden under feet sometimes by the wicked and so of other virtues He hath made a memory of his marvellous works c. He hath given meat to them that fear him Seq in Missa Consider 3. Hence the Church with good reason these days doth celebrate the memory of this Mystery with great pomp and solemnity If the Ark of God formerly was carried with so great state the King himself dancing all the way before it how much more honour doth the H. Eucharist deserve Go forth therefore to meet it in the best array of your Soul praise honour and thank the Author of it At least do what you are able because he is above all praise and you cannot praise him sufficiently Of the H. Eucharist compared with the Manna Part 1. COnsider 1. Nothing in the Antient Law was more wonderful then the Manna which for fourty years together fell daily from heaven for the sustenance of the people whence David said of it He hath made a memory of his marvellous works c. Consider therefore twelve admirable proprieties of it Ps 110.4 in a far more perfect manner expressed in the Eucharist 1. The Manna was bread but without seed or tillage not growing out of the earth but coming down from heaven So the H. Eucharist This is the bread that came down from heaven Jo. 6.58 And the sacred Body of Christ which is contained therein proceeded not by humane generation but from the Virgin alone and by the divine influence of the Holy Ghost 2. The Manna was made only by Angels whence it was called The bread of Angels Ps 77.25 Malac. 2.7 and the Eucharist only by Priests who are the Angels of the Lord of Hosts upon earth 3. The Manna contained in it self alone All delectation and the sweetness of all tast Sap. 16.20 Cyp. tract de Coena Dom. so the Eucharist surpasseth saith S. Cyprian all delicacies prepared for the tast and all the dainties of sweet meats 4. The Manna in such variety of tast and delight yet did relish differently to each one according as they desired For serving every mans will it was turned to that that every man would Sap. 16.21 so the Eucharist affordeth whatsoever virtue any one can desire to some Humility to others Chastity and so of the rest 5. The sweetness of the Manna was hidden and enjoyed only by the just whence the wicked complained saying Our soul now loatheth at this most light meat Num. 21.5 so with sinners the Eucharist relisheth no better then ordinary bread and therefore is called a hidden Manna 6. The Manna was like to the seed of Coriander whose property it is said to be that though it be broken into never so many pieces yet it retains in every one the whole virtue or strength of the seed so the Eucharist though broken into a thousand parts still as much will remain in one single parcel Seq in Missa as was before in the whole Of the H. Eucharist compared with the Manna Part 2. Exod. 16.18 COnsider the other Proprieties 7. Therefore Manna was given in an equal measure to every one Neither he that gathered more had above nor he that gathered less found under so in the Eucharist one takes a thousand takes but as much he Seq in Missa as they c. 8. The Manna was to be gathered betimes Exod. sup 21. before the Sun rising otherwise it presently melted away although within doors it would endure both fire and Mortar Sap. 16.28 That it might be known to all men saith the wise man that we ought to prevent the Sun to bless thee so the Eucharist doth impart its sweetness not to slothful and sluggish people but to the fervent Prov. 8.18 They that watch toward me shall find me 9. The Manna in an equal proportion served as well men as children old and young Exod. sup 18. so the Eucharist still the same in it self doth work differently in all according to their capacity and the disposition they bring 10. The Manna being kept only till the next day out of covetousness became full of worms Exod. sup 20. 32. and putrified yet being laid up by Gods Command in a Golden Vessel lasted incorrupt for many Generations so the Eucharist to them that receive it unworthily turneth to corruption and to their greater judgment and damnation but in the golden vessel of
kind of Fish for our Lord that is use those means which your state of life affordeth for the gaining of Souls Prayer Counsel Example c. Mat. 6.24 Consider 3. But they incontinent leaving the Nets followed him Observe their prompt Obedience they neither excuse themselves nor pretend poverty c. Such ought to be your Obedience to God and his holy Inspirations and to your Superiours whom you have in place of God without making any complaints or excuses Worldly cares and businesses are Nets that intangle and hinder us that we cannot give our selves freely to God Therefore you must leave all if you will follow Christ and lead an Apostolical life For no man can serve two Masters Of S. James and S. Johns Vocation Mat. 4. Mar. 1. Mat. 4.21 COnsider 1. And going forward from thence he saw other two Brethren James of Zebedee and John his Brother c. Observe how Christ first of all calleth two couple of Brethren Peter and Andrew James and John that upon these as so many Pillars he might raise his Church to signifie that all his Disciples ought to be well grounded in Fraternal Charity according to that Jo. 13.36 In this all men shall know that you are my Disciples if you have love one to another See therefore how you are in this point if you intend an Apostolical life Consider 2. Of these it is said that they forthwith left their Nets and Father and followed him Wherefore those that intend to be Apostolical men must leave not only worldly goods but even their Parents also for Christ casting off all humane affection towards them and converting it into a divine one in making it subordinate to the Divine Service Examine your self whether this love to your Parents and Kindred doth not bear too great a sway in you and hinder you from greater perfection Consider 3. And ponder how that word forthwith was not set down here without Mystery They were mending their Nets with their old Father but as soon as our Lord called they left their Nets as they were and objected not their Fathers old Age but followed him without more a do for perfect obedience is to leave their things imperfect Whence the antient Monks as Cassian witnesseth Gloss ibid. l. 4. Instit c. 14. would leave even a single letter unfinished at the sound of the common Bell or other sign See whether you be so ready to comply with the Inspirations of God the duties of the Church and appointment of your Superiours or whether you do not rather seek excuses and pretences contrary to what is required of you Of S. Matthews Vocation Mat. 9. Luc. 5. Mat. 9.9 COnsider 1. Jesus passing through Galilee saw a man sitting in the Custom-House where he received Tolls and he saith to him follow me Great was the force of this Call which was able to take a man off that was glued fast to his riches and yet perhaps the same would not be forcible enough to withdraw you from lesser impediments Who would dispair of Salvation when he seeth publick sinners taken out of a Custom-House and assumed not only to the friendship of God but even to the highest dignity of Apostleship Most true it is Ps 144.9 His commiserations are over all his works Consider 2. How Christ afterward refused not to eat at Table with Matthew and other Publicans that so he might gain them yet the Pharisees mutter at it Whence you may learn that there is nothing so holy that is not lyable to mens censures Wherefore if at any time you chance to suffer reprehension or slander when you have done well remember that the Schollar is not to be above his Master Consider 3. The mild answer of Christ They that are in health need not a Physitian but they that are ill at case And I am not come to call the Just but sinners See how Christ professeth himself a Physitian open therefore your wounds and diseases unto him August in Psal 102. For as S. Augustine saith No disease is incurable to the Omnipotent Physitian only permit your self to be cured by him hinder not his hand he knoweth what he doth and be not only content when be stroaketh you but also patient when he lanceth Of S. Pauls Vocation Act. 9.1 Jer. 29.11 COnsider 1. And Saul as yet breathing forth threatnings and slaughters against the Disciples of our Lord c. Ponder the unspeakable mercy of God Saul persecuted his Church and was in a raging fury to destroy it when as our Lord on the contrary not seeking revenge but intending cogitations of peace prevents him while he is yet contriving his wickedness and casts him off his horse to cure his mind while he graciously calleth upon him saying Saul Saul why persecutest thou me that you might learn to reverence Christ in your Neighbours and esteem their injuries as done to Christ himself Consider 2. Lord what wilt thou have me to do Ponder the admirable resignation of his Will So ought you also to pray and to offer your self ready for whatsoever he shall please to do with you and with much prayer and great fervour to seek after the Divine Will and resolutely to fulfill it when once you know it Consider 3. Arise and go into the City and it shall be told thee what thou must do Our Lord though after a miraculous manner he had prostrated him on the ground yet would not instruct him himself but sent him to Ananias to learn what he would have him to do that you might learn to acknowledge and reverence God in your Superiours and spiritual Directors Observe moreover how Saul spent three whole daies in prayer without taking either meat or drink before he had his sight restored for fasting and prayer are the best disposition for the receiving of spiritual sight Lastly until Ananias had imposed his hands upon him his eyes being opened he saw nothing representing thereby by the state of a sinner Whence it is said Blind the heart of this people Is 6.10 Luc. 8.10 that seeing they may not see and hearing may not understand Of Holy Communion Arise eat for thou hast yet a great way to go 3 Reg. 19.7 Consider the Eucharist as the Viaticum of our Pilgrimage Marc. 8.3 COnsider 1. What is read in this daies Gospel of Christs feeding the multitude lest they should faint in the way If I dismiss them fasting into their home they will fail in the way We are all of us in our way to our heavenly Country While we are in the body 2 Cor. 5.6 we are Pilgrims from God Wherefore we must have necessary provision for our journey that we may not fail in the way and out of weariness take up in the Stable of this contemptible world instead of passing on to our Heavenly Country Therefore as said that man Jud. 19. tast first a little bread Judic 19.5 and strengthen thy stomack
an attentive contemplation of its Excellency and goodness for so it is said of the Appletree above menâ—ioned Vnder his shadow whom I desired I sate and his fruit was sweet to my throat Prepare your self therefore by holy desires and whet your appetite by prayer and it will be granted you to tast Ps 33.9 and see how sweet our Lord is Of the Marriage Feast of Cana in Galilee Jo. 2.1 Part 1. Ps 67.4 COnsider 1. And there was a Marriage made in Cana of Galilee and the Mother of Jesus was there And Jesus also was called and his Disciples to the Marriage Our most benigne Lord refused not to be present at the Marriage Feast that he might take occasion to do good to many and withall confirm his Disciples in their Faith Think with what gravity and modesty he behaved himself at Table and learn to keep moderation in occasions of your mirth and jollity according to that Let the Just make merry and rejoyce in the sight of God that is as in the sight of God and having him continually before your eyes S. August Consider 2. The Wine failing his Blessed Mother of her own accord without being asked is careful to relieve their necessity in requital of their kind invitation and therefore saith to her Son They have no wine How much more careful will she be in the spiritual necessities of those that are devoted to her For by how much the more holy she is then other Saints so much the more sollicitous she is of our good saith S. Augustine Beseech her to intercede to her B. Son also for you for you are truly in want of the spiritual Wine of Charity and Devotion Judith 8.13 Consider 3. Christs answer which was seemingly harsh What is it to me and thee woman my hour cometh not yet To teach us First that we are not to appoint God any set time of helping us as they did whom Judith reprehendeth in those words You have set a time for the mercy of our Lord and according to your pleasure you have appointed him a day Secondly that in the service of God we must put off all carnal affection for which reason Christ is never read to have called the B. Virgin by the tender name of Mother even upon the Cross whence Moyses speaking of the Levites saith He that said to his Father and to his Mother I know you not Deut. 33.9 and to his Brethren I know you not c. These kept thy word and observed thy Covenant Of the Marriage Feast in Cana of Galilee Jo. 2.5 Part 2. COnsider 1. His Mother saith to the Ministers Whatsoever he shall say to you do ye Admire the admirable confidence of the B. Virgin who nothing dismayed with the seeming rough answer encourageth the Servers as if her request had been granted Observe that the confidence of obtaining what was asked was grounded in the exact performance of what our Lord should enjoyn according to that If my words abide in you you shall ask what thing soever you will Jo. 15.7 and it shall be done to you Be sure therefore to fulfill whatsoever Almighty God saith unto you either by Himself or his Vicars your Superiours and Directors if you desire to be furnished with Spiritual Wine S. Aug. Consider 2. Christs Injunction saying Fill the Water pots with water It was Wine that they wanted and yet he biddeth them powre in water who could without more ado have created Wine in the Vessels as they were without any water But God commandeth sometimes things that seem to stand with little reason to try our obedience Besides he will have us to concur in things appertaining to our own Salvation for as S. Augustine saith He that made you without you will not save you without you Apoc. 3.2 Consider 3. The perfection of Obedience in these Servers they reply not they question not any thing nor ask a reason why but presently fill the Vessels and that to the top so we ought to perform readily entirely and to the full the Commands of God and our Superiours Almighty God would have nothing that was maimed or imperfect offered to him in Sacrifice See whether your works be such and have a care it be not said of you I find not thy works full before my God Of the Marriage Feast in Cana of Galilee Jo. 2.10 Part 3. COnsider 1. The greatness of the Miracle The creature obeyed the will of Christ and the water was presently turned into wine which being powred out and tasted by the chief Steward the Miracle appeared to the singular joy of the B. Virgin confirmation of the Apostles in their Faith and astonishment of all Observe the force of the B. Virgins Intercession by whose means our Lord wrought his Precursors first Sanctification and this first Miracle that you might learn that all temporal and spiritual blessings are to be derived unto us by her Sap. 2.8 Consider 2. Those words of the chief Steward Every man first setteth the good Wine c. and then that which is worse Even so the world dealeth with its customers at first it presents them with the Cup of Joys allurements and pleasures Let there be no medow which our riot shall not pass through but afterwards it plungeth the soul into vexation and trouble of mind and torment Its Wine is such as Salomon speaketh of It goeth in pleasantly Prov. 23.31 32. Deut. 32.32 but in the end it will bite like a Snake and as a Basilisk it will powre abroad poysons Their grape is truly the grape of gall and the clusters most bitter Ps 59.5 Consider 3. God dealeth contrariwise he keepeth his good Wine to the last at the beginning he afflicteth and chastiseth but afterwards comforteth and crowneth Thou hast shewed unto thy people hard things thou hast made us drink the wine of compunction But afterwards They shall be inebriated with the plenty of thy house and with the torrent of thy pleasure thou shalt make them drink Besides Christ did not bring forth his Wine till his Entertainers Wine failed for that spiritual comfort is not afforded but in the absence and contempt of all sensual pleasure So the Manna rained not down till the provision of Meal that was brought out of Egypt was spent and afterwards again Manna failed after they did eat of the Corn of the Land Josue 5.12 Of casting the Buyers and Sellers out of the Temple Jo. 2.14 Part 1. Ps 92.5 COnsider 1. Jesus being entered into the Temple he found in it them that sold Oxen and Sheep and Doves c. which though they were sold there for the use of the Sacrifices yet Christ was displeased with worldly Traffick in the House of God that you might learn with what modesty and silence you ought to behave your self in the Church in time of Divine Service for holiness becometh thy House O Lord saith David for length of daies
of all occasions of doing good and that in all manner of distress according to our ability 3. They ought to be performed with an interiour pious affection Think how you are wont to be in these especially the spiritual works Mercy Mat. 11.28 Consider 2. The example of Christ in these particulars 1. As to all sorts of persons therefore he said Come ye to me all without exception that labour and are burthened and I will refresh you 2. As to all occasions of doing good therefore He was teaching daily in the Temple Luc. 19.47 Act. 10.39 And He went throughout doing good and bealing all that were oppressed of the Devil 3. He performed all with a most tender affection like to the Samaritan Luc. 10.30 c. who bound his wounds that fell among thieves therefore go and do thou in like manner Luc. 6.38 Consider 3. The Reward For they shall obtain mercy as well in this life both for body and soul as in the life to come likewise for both and that after a perfect manner and indeed with the same measure that you do mete it shall be measured to you again Think how much you stand in need of Gods Mercy What would become of you if he should deal with you according to your deserts Be merciful therefore and that in all the works of mercy that you may obtain mercy Judgment without mercy to him saith S. James that hath not done mercy Jac. 2.13 Of the sixth Beatitude Blessed are the clean of heart c. Mat. 5.8 1 Tim. 1. â— COnsider 1. Cleanness of heart consisteth 1. In being free from all sin both Mortal and Venial 2. In the frequent exercise of holy thoughts 3. In the purity of a right intention doing nothing with dissimulation or with intention to appear before men Therefore the Apostle requireth of us Charity from a pure heart and a good conscience and a faith not feigned Examine your self how you are in these particulars 1 Pet. 2.22 Sap. 7.26 Consider 2. Christs example who as S. Peter saith did no sin neither was guile found in his mouth Therefore he is also called The brightness of Eternal Light the unspotted glass of Gods Majesty and the Image of his goodness And did often rebuke the Scribes and Pharisees Mat. 23 2â— Woe to you Scribes and Pharisees Hypocrites because you make clean that on the outside of the cup and dish but within you are full of rapine and uncleanness See whether you imitate Christ or rather the Pharisees in your actions Sap. 1.4 5. Consider 3. The Reward For they shall see God O what a happiness it will be to see God! Neither eye hath seen nor ear heard c. Labour therefore to obtain this purity of heart which the greater it is the perfecter will be your Vision and Essential Happiness Even in this life such shall have a clearer knowledge of God and divine things On the contrary Wisdom will not enter into a malicious soul nor dwell in a soul subject to sins And the Holy Ghost of discipline will fly from him that feigneth saith the wise man Of the seventh Beatitude Blessed are the Peace-makers Mat. 5.9 c. COnsider 1. There are four several ways of making peace The first is to make peace with ones self by subjecting the Flesh to the Spirit and the Sensual Appetite to Reason The second is to keep peace with others to hurt none to give no body occasion of complaint The third is to pacifie and make agree those that are at variance The fourth and most excellent of all others is to reconcile souls to God Think how you carry your self in these Is 9.6 Consider 2. The example of Christ who therefore came down from Heaven that he might be out Mediator for peace and is therefore called A peaceable King and Prince of Peace At his first entrance into the world he brought Peace with him And in earth Luc. 2.14 peace to men of good will And at his going forth of it again he left us his Peace as a Legacy saying Jo. 14.27 Peace I leave to you my peace I give to you c. Lastly he would have his Disciples to salute all with the word of peace Peace to this house And himself after his Resurrection Luc. 10.5 used the like salutation to them Phil. 4.7 Consider 3. The Reward For they shall be called the Children of God Think what a dignity it is to be the Son of Almighty God If it be thought a great matter to be the Son of some earthly Prince how much more to have the Heavenly King and Lord of all for his Father Wherefore Almighty God doth after a special manner love cherish and protect these Peace-makers as his own children See how you keep peace within your self with God and with your Neighbour and do your endeavour that the Peace of God which passeth all understanding keep your heart aad intelligence Of the eighth Beatitude Blessed are they that suffer Persecution Mat. 5.10 c. 1 Pet. 4.16 COnsider 1. These four things 1. Under the Name of Persecution are comprehended all manner of injuries afflictions and incommodities in our fortunes honor and life 2. These are raised by the Devil or his Ministers Sometimes also through mistake God so permitting by the Just 3. They are inflicted for Justice sake when one suffereth them for the exercise of virtue and incompliance with his proper duties both towards God and men 4. In such occasions they are to be suffered not only patiently but also joyfully for the greatness of the reward Therefore S. Peter saith Let none of you suffer as a Murderer or a Thief or a Railer c. but if as a Christian let him not be ashamed but let him glorifie God in this Name Consider 2. The Example of Christ who endured all manner of injuries and incommodities in his honour in his goods in his person for a cause which on his part was the most just that could be to wit for the publishing his most wholesome and Divine Law and bringing Mankind back from the dirt and mire of Vice whereinto he was fallen to the way of Eternal Salvation Exod. 25.40 Therefore look and do according to the pattern Rom. 8.18 Consider 3. The Reward For theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven And again Be glad and rejoyce for your reward is very great in Heaven Ponder well the greatness or this Reward and how true is that of the Apostle The passions of this time are not condigne to the glory to come that shall be revealed in us Of those words of our Lord Mat. 5.13 You are the Salt of the Earth c. COnsider 1. Salt doth both season Meat and preserve it from Corruption So it is the part of all Apostolical men to preserve Souls from the corruption of sin and besides to render the exercise of Virtue savoury and pleasant unto them
difficulties and lets that hinder their mutual communication And we may fitly apply to S. Peter in this place those words of the Canticles Cant. 8.7 Many waters cannot quench his charity neither shall flouds overwhelm it See whether you love God in this manner and not rather permit your self to be often taken off from his service for small difficulties Consider 2. How S. Peter being bid to come cast himself into the Sea But seeing the wind rough he was afraid Mat. sup and when he began to be drowned he cryed out to our Lord. So our Lord doth often permit us almost to sink under our tentations that we may the more fervently call upon him But at length he stretched forth his hand to Peter and would not let him sink So he will also do with us Ps 36.24 according to that When he shall fall he shall not be bruised because our Lord putteth his hand under And he sent from on high Ps 17.17 and took me and he received me out of many waters Consider 3. What it signifieth mystically to walk upon the Sea S. Aug. Ser. 13 de Verbis Dom. The World is like a Sea saith S. Augustine if you love God you walk upon the Sea if you love the World this Sea will swallow you up Examine your self which of the two you love God or the World it is a dreadful thing to be swallowed up Be sure therefore that you walk and trample over this Sea and be mindful of what the same Saint saith Every ones inordinate desire is his tempest Of S. Peters confessing Christ Mat. 16. Mar. 8. Luc. 9. Mat 16.13 COnsider 1. Jesus came into the quarters of Caesarea Philippi and he asked his Disciples saying Whom say men that the Son of Man is For it is good sometimes to know what men say of us both that we may come to know and correct our defects and that we may strive to make good and to perfect in our selves such things as are said of us to our commendation but take heed you do not desire it out of vain glory and ostentation Observe how Christ calleth himself every where the Son of Man though he were the only begotten Son of God and yet worldly men foolishly stand upon their Points and Titles of Honour Consider 2. The Apostles answer Some John the Baptist and other some Elias c. they say not some a Glutton others a Drunkard and other such like reproaches to teach us that slanderous reports ought not to be uttered before our Brother not to afflict his mind Observe how far men were off from the esteem they ought to make of Christ notwithstanding that his Miracles did most apparently evidence his Divinity that you might cease to wonder if your Neighbours or Companions undervalue you or mistake in taking you to be worse then you are Be content to be such and no more then you are in the sight of God who seeth all things Ps 21.23 Consider 3. But whom do you say that I am He puts the question to his Disciples as having been long brought up in his School and consequently bound to know more of him then the rest Peter answered and said Thou art Christ the Son of the Living God not by Adoption as others but by Nature and Essence the true Messias and Saviour of the World Rejoyce for the Divinity of your Lord and Saviour and stir your self up both to confess him in your own thoughts and actions and to bring others likewise to the knowledge and service of him according to that I will declare thy Name to my Brethren Primacy is promised to Peter Mat. 16.17 COnsider 1. When Peter had made that Famous Profession of his Faith our Lord said Blessed art thou Simon Bar-jona because flesh and blood hath not revealed to theâ— but my Father which is in Heaven Our Lord pronounceth him blessed for that the foundation of a happy life is to know Christ Simon signifieth the same as Obedient Bar-jona the Son of a Dove or of Grace Be you therefore obedient and with a Dove-like simplicity endeavour to comply with the Divine Grace Do not mind what flesh and blood doth suggest but what the heavenly Father doth inspire you that you may also become happy Ibid. Consider 2. Peters reward Thou art Peter that is a Rock and upon this Rock will I build my Church c. 1. Christ giveth him a Name suitable to his Office 2. Upon him he foundeth his Church Militant and makes him the Visible Head thereof 3. He promiseth him Infallibility so that the Gateâ—s of Hell shall not prevail against him 4. He promiseth him likewise the Keys of Heaven that is the Key of Knowledge to determine matters of Faith without Errour and the Key of Power to remit sins Rejoyce for these Priviledges granted to the Chief Pastor for your particular and the whole Churches general good Consider 3. In what a miserable state are they that deny this Primacy of S. Peter and will not build upon the Rock which cannot be overthrown or rooted up but upon the Sands of their own judgment and private spirit ground their Eternal Salvation Desire and seek with most earnest endeavour suitably to your calling to bring all men to this Rock and first dispose your self unto it by the exercise of Solid Virtues S. Peter is reprehended for disswading Christ from his Passion Mat. 16. Mar. 7. Mat. 16.20 COnsider 1. How after S. Peters Confession of Christs Divinity our Lord commanded his Disciples that they should tell no body that he was Jesus Christ both to give example of Humility and to avoid Ostentation and withall for that it was not seasonable at that time And presently after he treated of his Passion From that time Jesus began to shew his Disciples that he must go to Hierusalem and suffer many things c. that you might learn in the day of good things not to be unmindful of evils Eccli 11.27 as Ecclesiasticus adviseth and that it is not enough to confess Christ as your God unless you also have an experimental knowledge and imitation of him in suffering Consider 2. S. Peter hearing this being zealous for his Master took Christ aside and rebuked him saying Lord be it far from thee this shall not be unto thee This was zeal in him but an indiscreet one Rom. 10.2 and not according to knowledge as the Apostle speaketh for he did not as yet understand how glorious would be the Ignominy of the Cross See whether you are not sometimes carried away with the like preposterous zeal in your actions Consider 3. Christs Reprehension Go after me Satan for thou art a scandal unto me because thou savourest not the things that are of God but the things that are of men Ponder how dangerous a thing it is to savour only things that are of men and to love honours riches pleasures c. and not rather those things that
receive Christ under his Roof he had now lodged him in his Heart that you may also imitate him especially when you communicate Of curing the Centurions Servant Mat. 8. Luc. 7. Part 2. Luc. 7.8 COnsider 1. The rest of the Centurions discourse For I also am a man subject to Authority having under me Souldiers and I say to this go and he goeth and to an other come and be cometh and to my servant do this and he doth it As if he should say if I who am but an Under-Officer and under the command of my Captains yet can say to my servant do this and he doth it how much more will all creatures obey your Word An honourable confession of Christs Power Rejoyce that he is truly such and withall be confounded that servants perform stricter obedience to their Masters in things of this world then you perhaps do to God or your Superiours that are in his place Mat. 8.10 Consider 2. Christ having heard these words extolled the Faith of the Centurion being but a Gentile above the Israelites Amen I say to you I have not found so great Faith in Israel Whereupon he adjoyneth And I say to you that many shall come from the East and the West c. but the children of the Kingdom shall be cast out c. The children of the Kingdom of Heaven formerly were the Jews but now they are become Out-casts because they obey'd not Gods call and we are made the children of that Kingdom and after a special manner an Elect Generation and a Kingly Priesthood 1 Pet. 2.9 Let us therefore behave our selves worthy of such an honour Hold that which thou hast saith our Lord that no man take thy Crown Apoc. 3.11 Consider 3. How his Request was granted Go and as thou hast believed be it done to thee Mat. sup 13 for our Lord will do the will of them that fear him and will hear their prayer Ps 144.20 Perhaps you entertain in your Soul a Will or Affection that lieth sick of the Palsey that is seized upon with the Spirit of Sloth and Sluggishness Imitate therefore the fervour and humility of this Centurion and by means of your good Friends that is the Saints your holy Patrons beg remedy of our Lord but especially when you go to Communion use those words of the Centurion and with like Faith Lord I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof Luc. 7.6 Of the curing of S. Peters Mother-in-Law Mat. 9. Luc. 4. Mar. 1. Luc. 4.38 COnsider 1. Our Lord being entered into Peters house sound his Mother-in-Law lying sick of a strong Feaver but the Disciples besought him for her Observe the Apostles readiness to intercede for others and the efficacy of their Intercession for she was immediately cured We all of us have some Spiritual Feaver or other being set on fire by the allurements of divers unlawful desires Our Feaver saith S. Ambrose is Covetousness Ambr. l. 4. in Luc. c. 4. our Feaver is Lust our Feaver is Ambition c. See what you are most sick of and take the Apostles for your Intercessors that you may be cured Ps 148.5 Consider 2. The manner wherewith Christ delivered the sick person Standing over her he commanded the Feaver and it left her He did not drive it away with Medicines as the Physitians do but by Command alone to shew his Power and Divinity So at other times he commanded the Winds and Sea and the Devils and they obeyed him for as the members of our Body obey the Soul and move only at her will so all creatures obey God Rejoyce that you have so powerful a Lord He said and they were made he commanded and they were created Do you likewiâ—e procure to obey him in all things Pro. 31.17 Consider 3. S. Peters Mother-in-Law being cured Incontinent rising she ministred to them She pretended not weakness after her sickness nor desired to give her self any more to rest but presently betook her self to labour and pains like that valiant Woman in the Proverbs She hath girded her loyns with strength and hath strengthened her arm Wherefore it will prove an effect of your spiritual health to work fervently and to be ready for all charitable offices Of a Princes Son restored to health Jo. 4. c. Jo. 4.46 47. COnsider 1. There came unto Christ a certain Lord whose Son was sick at Capharnaum c. and desired him that he would come down and beal his Son for he began to die Observe how profitable corporal infirmities and afflictions are which force us to have recourse to God for unless the Son had fallen sick perhaps the Father had never been brought to the Faith of Christ So it is written of King Manasses while he was Captive that after he was in distress he prayed our Lord his God 2 Paral. 33.12 c. and Manasses knew that our Lord he was God Therefore take the like infirmities and afflictions as so many benefits and incitements to Virtue Their infirmities were multiplied saith David afterward they made hast Ps 15.4 Ps 43.5 Consider 2. Christs answer 1. He reprehendeth them that seek Miracles out of incredulity 2. He refuseth to go to the house where he was desired for that it is not sitting we should prescribe God the way and manner of succouring us 3. Yet he mercifully giveth recovery and health though absent the more to manifest his Power and to strengthen our Faith for he it is which commandeth the Salvations of Jacob. Learn hence not to seek Miracles Visions or extraordinary favours but to commit your self wholly to God as to the way and manner of helping you Beseech him that if you be not worthy that he come to your house in the Eucharist at least that he would send aid to thee from the holy place Ps 19.3 and from Sion defend thee Consider 3. The man believed the word that Jesus said to him and thereby received health both of body for his Son and of Soul for himself and his whole Family for himself believed and his whole Family so God heapeth favours upon favours Beseech him humbly to work also in you perfect health both of body and soul Of Holy Communion Let the King come to the banquet c. and to morrow I will open my will to the King Esth 5.8 Consider Christ as your Souls Guest Apoc. 3.20 COnsider 1. What is read this day in the Gospel how Christ entered into the house of a certain Pharisee upon the Sabboth to eat bread Luc. 14.1 He is also the Guest of our Souls and he will enter this day into the house of your soul in the Holy Eucharist to feast with you according to that If any man open to me the gate I will enter in to him and will sup with him and he with me Consider therefore attentively the Greatness and Majesty of this Guest and take
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
Num. 11. â—9 Consider 2. The Elder Brother hearing of his Fathers Joy and Feasting murmured for envy Ponder how easie it is even among virtuous persons to be touched with some litt e envy or grudge at anothers commendation or preferment that you may so much the more carefully keep your self from the like Infection You ought rather to wish with Moyses that all might praise and honour God O that all the people might Prophesie and that our Lord would give them his Spirit Consider 3. The Fathers mild answer endeavouring to bring him from his errour Son thou art always with me and all my things are thine O what a happiness it is to the Just to have God always with them How rich must they be that have all things common with God Learn to rejoyce when your Brother is brought back again to Christ and endeavour what you can to bring very many to him Of him that was wounded by the Thieves Luc. 10.30 c. Part 1. A Certain man went down from Hierusalem into Jericho and fell among Thieves c. Consider 1. In this Parable the Fall of Mankind in Adam Man in his first Creation was ordained to take the course of his life from Jericho that is from this Sublunary World for Jericho signifieth the Moon to the Heavenly Hierusalem but he turning his affections which are the feet of the Soul from Hierusalem to Jericho fell among Thieves to wit the Devils who robbed him of Original Justice and giving him wounds left him half dead Consider 2. The many wounds which our Nature received by that first sin they are commonly by Divines accounted to be four in number S. Tho. 1.2 q. 85. a. 3. The first is Ignorance whereby the Understanding is made destitute of that order which it hath to Truth The second is Malice whereby the Will is disordered in the pursuance of good The third is Infirmity whereby the Irascible Power is weakened in order to what is difficult The fourth is Concupiscence whereby the Concupiscible Power is left in disorder as to moderate delight See how you are maimed in all these and have recourse to the Pious Samaritan for remedy saying with the Prophet Heal me O Lord and I shall be healed Jer. 17.14 save we and I shall be saved Consider 3. Neither the Priests nor Levites of the Antient Law could afford any remedy to man thus wounded The Samaritan alone Christ our Lord in form of a Sinner coming near him by his Incarnation bound his wounds and out of the precious Vessels of the Sacraments powred in Oyl and Wine And when he went for Heaven he recommended him to the care of Prelates promising them reward for the care and diligence they should use towards him What will you return to this Samaritan for this so great love and mercy towards you Of him that was wounded by the Thieves Luc. 10. Part 2. COnsider 1. In this Parable your own and every sinners fall They who go down from Hierusalem to Jericho and turn their affections from heavenly things to those of this world do certainly fall into the hands of Thieves but not on the contrary Ponder how this world is like to Jericho that is the Moon for its Inconstancy and think how dangerous it is to travel in a way that is beset with Thieves Such is your journey in this life Because your Adversary 1 Pet. 5.8 Ps 9. apud Heb. 10.9 the Devil as a roaring Lyon goeth about seeking whom he may devour He lyeth in wait in secret as a Lyon in his Den. Consider 2. How the Devil treateth such Passengers as deliver themselves up to him for he can hurt none but such as will themselves he robbeth them of all the Ornaments of Grace he striketh them with desperate wounds of Vicious Habits and so leaveth them half dead he is truly half dead that hath but one half of himself alive who though he be well in body yet is dead in spirit and to God See whether you be such be sorry for having been so at any time and have a care you do not any more put your self into the hands of so cruel a Tyrant Consider 3. The great Mercy of our Saviour who approacheth near the sinner by his holy Inspirations and chiefly by the Eucharist to bind up bis wounds and cure the infirmities of his Soul Our Lord shall bind up the wound of his people Is 30.26 and shall heal the stroke of their wound saith the Prophet Who would not confide in such a Physitian he powreth Wine and Oyl into the wounds to teach us how to cure our Neighbour when he sinneth to wit by tempering Severity with Mildness So that in our Correction there be both love Greg. in Past p. 2. c. 6. without remissuess and vigour without sharpness Of Holy Communion Forgive us our Debts as we also forgive our Debtors Mat. 6.12 Mat. 18.24 c. Consider Christ as a Patient Creditor COnsider 1. And imagine your self to be that Servant of whom is mention in this daies Gospel that owed his Lord ten thousand Talents For the debt of punishment which the Sinner oweth to God for every Mortal sin is in a manner infinit neither is he able to make any satisfaction although he were to be sold and with all that he hath condemned to perpetual Slavery What then would become of you if our Lord should call you to account this very day You are charged with a great Debt and you are not able to pay Ephes 2.4 Eccli 5.4 Ps 144.8 Joel 2.13 Is 1.18 Consider 2. The Depth of Gods Goodness who is ready to forgive more then man can possibly owe whence he is called Rich in Mercy A patient Rewarder Pittiful and Merciful And ready to be gracious upon the malice And by the Prophet he even provokes us Come and accuse me saith our Lord if your sins shall be as Scarlet they shall be made white as Snow c. He will come therefore unto you this day in the Eucharist which he would have to be as a Sanctuary or Refuge to all his Debtors that are not able to pay Therefore David Our Lord is made a Refuge for the Poor O how are you to wish for the coming of so good Ps 9.10 Creditor Luc. 6.37 Consider 3. Out of this Parable what preparation is required 1. He is to be entreated by frequent and earnest prayer I forgave thee all the debt because thou besoughtest me 2. With profound Humility for the servant falling down bâ—sought him 3. You are firmly to purpose amendment in life and manners Have patience towards me and I will repay thee all 4. You must forgive your Brother if you have any thing against him Oughtest not thou also to have mercy upon thy fellow-servant even as I had mercy upon thee Forgive and you shall be forgiven Of the Workmen in the Vineyard Mat. 20.1 c. Part 1. COnsider 1. The Kingdom of
Heaven is like to a man that is an housholder c. This Housholder is God himself who although he is Lord of a most ample Kingdom in Heaven and in Earth yet he doth so provide for each one in every particular and minute thing as if he were Master only of some little Family His Vineyard is the Church the Vines are all the Faithful the Workmen are the Prelates and others that dress pruen and spread the Vines and even the Faithful themselves who are bound to cultivate their own Souls by good works What a blessed thing it is to labour in such a Vineyard under such a Master and about such precious Vines Consider 2. The sollicitude of this Housholder which went out early in the morning to hire workmen c. From the very beginning of the World from Age to Age God never left to call workmen He calleth every man betimes even from the very first use of Reason and although most refuse to come yet he omits not afterwards to call again and again not giving them over to their last gasp some he allureth with hopes of reward That which shall be just I will give you Others he rebuketh for their sloth What stand you here all the day idle See whether you have not hitherto been idle Pro. 24.31 Consider 3. Part of this great Vineyard are all such as God hath placed under your charge according to the state and calling you are in but chiefly your own Soul See in what state and condition it is examine whether it be not like to that whereof the wise man speaketh in thâ—se words Nettles had filled it wholly and Thorns had covered the face thereof and the wall of stones was destroyed Think therefore that you are sent into a Vineyard not into a Garden of Pleasure to labour not to sport or live at ease and encourage your self to undergo great pains and labours knowing that the reward will be answerable Pro. 13.4 and that the Soul of them that work shall be made fat Of the Workmen in the Vineyard Mat. 20.8 c. Part 2. Jo. 5.27 COnsider 1. When Evening was come the Lord of the Vineyard saith to his Bailiff Call the workmen and pay them their hire beginning from the last c. This Bailiff is Christ our Lord whom the Father hath given power to do Judgment c. The Evening of our Life is Death for all our whole life time is but as one day and even a thousand years before Gods eyes are as yesterday that is past Ps 89.4 After death every man receives his hire or reward wherein there is not so much regard had to the time as to the fervour of working Whence they that come in last in their Conversion shall receive as much as the first because they are wont for the most part to labour with greater fervour and humility deeming themselves unworthy of any reward whereas on the contrary others are used to presume of themselves See whether or no you do not the same 1 Cor. 13.4 1 Cor. 12.30 Consider 2. How the former murmured saying These last have continued one hour and thou hast made them equal to us that have born the burden of the day and the heats Not that there will be any murmuring in Heaven but for that the reward of the last comers that work fervently will be so great that if the state could permit it would breed envy in the first It is easie to fall into the like emulation and grudge in this life See whether your eye be not sometime naught or malicious because God or your Superiour is good to your Brother Rather joy in his Preferment for Charity envieth not unless it be virtues and the better gifts Sap. 4.13 Consider 3. The Parables final clause So shall the last be first and the first last for many be called but few elect They that came last to work come first to be rewarded for their fervour in working Because God regardeth not how much is done as S. Gregory saith but out of what affection Perhaps you may reckon many years of your life time in Gods service but few of fervour rather procure that it may be said of you In short space he fulfilled much time Of the Invitement to the Wedding Mat. 22. Luc. 14. and Supper Part 1. Mat. 22.2 COnsider 1. The Kingdom of Heaven is likened to a man being a King which made a Marriage to his Son This King is the Heavenly Father who made a Marriage between his only begotten Son and Humane Nature in the Bed-Chamber of the Virgins Womb The Son espoused to himself the Church in Faith and Charity according to that I will espouse thee to me in Faith Osee 2.20 and thou shalt know that I am the Lord who also espouseth unto himself the souls of the faithful and that not of a few only or of such as are Noble but generally of all that refuse not his Espousaâ—s Acknowledge therefore my Soul your Dignity and behave your self worthy of such a Spouse Luc. 14.18 c. Consider 2. The King made a Solemn Wedding Feast for his Church which he set forth with the Sacraments as so many Royal Courses and inviteth all to it but most men excuse themselves some out of an ambitious desire of Rule and Command I have bought a Farm and I must needs go forth and see it Others for their Imployment in worldly affairs I have bought five yoke of Oxen and I go to prove them Some again for carnal pleasures I have married a Wife and therefore I cannot come Others finally laid hands upon his servants Mat. 22.6 and spitefully entreating them murdered them The same do they who contumeliously reject their Pious Monitors and stick not to wound and pierce them with the Sword of their Tongue Consider 3. The madness of men that leave this Divine Banquet of the Heavenly King for vile and transitory things especially seeing that from this Nuptial Feast of the Militant Church on Earth they are to pass to that of the Triumphant in Heaven Take heed you let not your self be intangled with these snares of the world least you come to be shut out for ever from the Heavenly Banquet Luc. 14.15 Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the Kingdom of God Aspire therefore with all your endeavour to this happiness Of the Invitement to the Wedding Mat. 22. Luc. 14. and Supper Part 2. Luc. 14.21 COnsider 1. Go forth quickly into the streets and lanes of the City and the poor and feeble and blind and lame bring in hither c. The Divine Clemency is nothing abated by mans wretchedness or ingratitude he provideth other Guests to come in their rooms and for the rich and voluptuous men that excuse themselves he calleth the poor and feeble that is such as are free from worldly incumberances and impediments He even compelleth them to enter forcing them in a
himself The light of thy countenance Ps 4.7 O Lord is signed upon us Therefore as it is said to day in the Gospel give him this piece of Coyn whose Image and Superscription it beareth but let it be neat and cleansed from the filth of sin Rom. 8.29 and conformable to the Image of his Son to whose likeness it was made and then he will teach you all truth Jo. 16.13 Of the Talents Mat. 25. Luc. 19. Part 1. Mat. 25.14 COnsider 1. A man going into a strange Country called his servants and delivered them his goods God as the Universal Lord of all distributes his goods among men for whatsoever we have either in body or soul within or without us natural or supernatural all is Gods O man What hast thou that thou hast not received 1 Cor. 4.7 But God distributes his Talents or Gifts whether Natural or Supernatural more to one fewer to an other at his pleasure but he saith to all Occupy or negotiate till I come Luc. 19.13 that they may make their benefit of what they receive See how much you have received for your share that you may be the better able to give an account Mat. 25.16 Consider 2. The due use of these Talents He that had received the five Talents occupied with the same and gained other five Likewise also he that received the two gained other two Equal was the industry of both though in unequal Talents and therefore equal also was their reward because God as S. Hierom saith considereth not the greatness of the gain but our good will and endeavour S. Hieron in c. 25. Mat. Wherefore you also although you may think your self to have received few Talents in comparison of others notwithstanding may be equal to them in reward if you be equal with them to your proportion in the improvement of your stock Consider 3. The powerful Motive of reward to make us labour hard Because thou hast been faithful over a few things Mat. sup 21 I will place thee over many things enter into the Joy of thy Lord But what joy That which eye hath not seen nor ear hath beard 1 Cor. 2.9 c. A joy without any limit or measure and never to have any end or abatement Be you therefore faithful over that little which God hath bestowed upon you in Wit Judgment Science Health and the like imploying all to his glory that you may deserve to be placed over many things Of the Talents Mat. 25. Luc. 19. Part 2. Mat. 25.18 COnsider 1. He that had received the one Talent going his way digged ineo the earth and hid his Lords money So many seeing themselves not able to appear exteriourly in point of Science Virtue c. so much as others fall into despair give themselves over to the world and become slothful and careless in the service of God The slothful hideth his hand under the arm-hole Pro. 19.24 neither doth he put it to his mouth But such are called Fools by the Divine Spirit Eccles 4.5 A Fool foldeth his hands together c. saying Better is an handful with rest then both hands full with labour See whether perhaps you do not the same Ps 140.4 Consider 2. The slothful servants excuse Lord I know that thou art a hard man c. He makes a lye to excuse himself for our Lord is not hard but gentle and good to all The same do all slothful people making excuses in sins they fancy vain fears and dangers saying A Lion is in the way a Lioness in the journeys Pro. 26.13 Such often say I cannot whereas there wants not Power but Will. Have a special care of this slothful humour Consider 3. This servants doom Naughty and slothful servant c. take away the Talent from him c. And the unprofitable servant cast ye out into the utter darkness there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth He is not damned as S. Augustine observeth Because he lost the Talent Aug. Ser. 10 in Joan. but because he kept it without making gain Use therefore all your endeavour to imploy well the Talents which God hath bestowed upon you you cannot want imployment in what state or condition soever you live for your own Spiritual Advantage Gods Glory and your Neighbours good Of the Vineyard let our to Husbandmen Mat. 21. Mar. 12. Luc. 20. Part 1. Mat. 21.33 COnsider 1. A man there was an Housholder who planted a Vineyard and made a hedge round about it c. God hath planted a Vineyard his Universal Church and hath bestowed great care upon it First he hath made a hedge round about it fencing it with excellent Laws and Precepts and affording it the Protection of Angels against the Incursions of Wild Beasts the Devils Secondly He digged in it a Press Instituting the Sacraments wherein is contained the precious Blood of Christ strained out for us through the Press of the Cross and ever flowing for the Remission of our Sins Thirdly He built a Tower to watch in imploying his Divine Providence both to protect it from Evils and to provide it with all good How happy is it to be placed in such a Vineyard under such a Guardian Consider 2. Having thus appointed his Vineyard he let it out to Husbandmen that is to all men that each one should labour in it as to his part or share to wit his own Soul and such others as are committed to his charge which done he went forth into a strange Country because he maketh as if he were absent leaving us to our selves to work freely and at our own pleasure And although he could have fruit from us by force yet he expecteth with patience Who then would not admire and love so great a Goodness Consider 3. Almighty God to put these Husbandmen in mind of their duty sent them from time to time Patriarchs Prophets and Priests but all in vain Lastly he sent also his own Son but him likewise they kâ—lled Justly therefore he complaineth by his Prophet What is there that I ought to do more to my Vineyard Is 5.4 and have not done to it Whence with good reason it is â—aid The naughty men he will bring to naught Mat. sup 41 See that the same sentence may not also light upon you and procure to yield fruit answerable to the Tenure which you hold Of the Vineyard let out to Husbandmen Mat. 21. Mar. 12. Luc. 20. Part 2. Jer. 2.21 COnsider 1. The Vineyard is also the Soul of every Man and yours in particular which the Supreme Housholder hath furnished with Hedge Press and Tower that is with all necessaries both for your security and convenience of yielding fruit in all manner of virtue Look well into your self and you will find that you are an Elect Vineyard of which the Prophet speaketh so that it may be also said of you What is there that I ought
thee my vowes which my lips have distinguished Ps 65.13 Consider Christ as an Offering and a Sacrifice Ephes 5.2 COnsider 1. What is read this day in the Gospel Mat. 5.24 If thou offer thy gift at the Altar c. The Eucharist of all other is the most excellent Offering that can be made wherein the Body and Blood of Christ are offered to God as a Propitiatory Sacrifice for the living and the dead For Christ loved us and delivered himself for us an Oblation and Host to God in an odour of sweetness as the Apostle saith What a treasure therefore have we in such a gift Oblation and Sacrifice Consider 2. This Divine Sacrifice hath three Excellencies above all the Sacrifices of the Old Law S. Tho. opusc 58. c. 4. 1. In the exteriour decorum as being more seemly and decent and without effusion of blood 2. In the interiour worth and dignity for that in others only beasts were offered in this the Son of God himself 3. As to the effects for this Sacrifice hath virtue and efficacy for the good of the living in this world for freeing the dead out of Purgatory and for the glory of the Blessed in Heaven Lev. 21.23 Consider 3. For due preparation to offer this Sacrifice is required 1. Singular Purity according to that Let him not approach to the Altar that hath a blemish and he must not contaminate my Sanctuary 2. And chiefly Fraternal Charity and Union as is intimated in this days Gospel Mat. sup If thou offer thy gift c. go first to be reconciled to thy Brother c. This was required in all Sacrifices but is chiefly necessary in the Holy Eucharist which was principally instituted to unite us all together as Members of the same Body under one Head and therefore by the Councel of Trent it is called the Seal of Vnity the Bond of Charity Conc. Trid. Sess 13. c. 8 and the Symbol of Concord Of the Apostles first Vocation Jo. 1.36 Part 1. Rom. 11 33. COnsider 1. Christ going about to chuse his Disciples by whom he would instruct the whole World went not to Hiecusalem nor Rome nor Athens to make his choice of Wife Noble and Rich men whom if he had so pleased he might easily have drawn to himself as he did the three Sages from the East but would chuse such as were poor simple and contemptible in the sight of the world O Depth of the riches of the Wisdom and of the Knowledge of God! What man now-a-daies would make such a choice Christ did it 1. For the commendation of Humility which was necessary for his Disciples 2. For the manifestation of the Divine Power in working great things by weak Instruments 1 Cor. 1.27 The foolish things of the world hath God chosen that he may confound the wise Consider 2. How even these men were chosen by our Lord not assembling the people and publickly selecting his Disciples out of that number for the greater Authority of his Preaching but without any noise or stir and as if he had lighted upon them by chance So two of Johns Disciples hearing that commendation from their Masters mouth Behold the Lamb of God and as they were following Christ he turned to them and most courteously asked What seek you and having brought them home with him invited them to a further acquaintance Learn to prevent others in courtesie and civility and to deal your affairs solidly well but with little noise and ostentation Eccli 17.12 Consider 3. One of these Disciples was S. Andrew who being inflamed with the love of God was desirous presently to set others on fire Therefore finding out his Brother Peter bringeth him to Christ saying We have found Messias You also by Gods great mercy before many of your time have found out the Messias in the Catholique Church Do you likewise endeavour by means suitable to your calling to bring many others to him For as the wise man saith God gave them Commandment every one concerning his Neighbour Of the Apostles first Vocation Jo. 1.43 Part 2. COnsider 1. On the morrow he would go forth into Galilee and he fiâ—deth Philippe c. Many others our Lord found in the way but Philippe after a special manner and selected him for Eternal Life saying Follow me who presently followed him Think how many able and famous men in your Country our Lord permitteth to perish in their Errours and hath singled you out of so many thousands like another Philippe and hath made you as a chosen arrow Is 49.2 In his Quiver he hath hidden you See therefore you follow our Lord as Philippe did and do not undervalue so great a benefit Greg. Consider 2. Philippe findeth Nathanael and saith to him c. The love of God is not idle but worketh great things where it is or else if it worketh not saith S. Gregory it is not at all So Philippe as soon as he came to know Christ hastened to bring others to him Ponder those words of Christ Behold an Israelite in very deed in whom there is no guile Examine your self whether you be such walking with a pure intention in the sight of God Eccli 3.28 for a heart that goeth two ways shall not have success saith Ecclesiasticus Consider 3. Christ told Nathanael what he secretly did under the Fig-tree c. Whence you may learn that all things lye open to the eyes of God even those which you do by your self alone in the most secret corner of your Chamber and of your heart and see that you behave your self worthily in his sight Ponder also the Noble Confession of Nathanael Rabbi thou art the Son of God thou art the King of Israel and stir your self up to like acts of Faith Confession and Reverence Of the second Vocation of S. Peter and S. Andrew Mat. 4. Luc. 4. COnsider 1. Jesus walking by the Sea of Galilee saw two brethren c. The first calling was only to a familiarity as S. Augustine affirmeth whence afterward they returned to their imployment of Fishing The second was to leave all to follow our Lord and to be his Disciples so a Soul is disposed by degrees to Perfection Ponder those words Come ye after me and I will make you to be Fishers of men You must follow the footsteps of Christ if you intend to be a Fisher of men Consider 2. What a dignity it is to be a Fisher of men If it be gainful to fish for Pearl and precious stones how much more to fish for and gain Souls to our Lord which himself bought at the price of his own precious Blood Of all divine things saith S. Denys the most divine is S. Dion de Eccl. Hierarchia c. 3. to cooperate with God towards the salvation of souls Think how you may also concur to so glorious an end according to the state and calling you are of and fit your Spiritual Nets for catching this