Their Evangelical Poverty for love of which As many as were owners of lands or houses sold Ibid. 34 35 and bought the prices of those things which they sold and laid it before the feet of the Apostles c. Neither did any one say Sup. v. 32. that ought was his own of those things which he possessed but all things were common to them Act. 2.46 47. Consider 3. The rest of their life they were daily also continuing with one accord in the Temple and breaking bread from house to house as well the Eucharistical bread in Communion as common bread in Hospitality they took their meat with joy and simplicity of heart praising God and having grace with all the people How far are we off from the like fervour assiduity of prayer and simplicity of heart Let us therefore imitate their example that we may come to enjoy their company in heaven Lord if I have found grace in thy sight go not past thy servant Gen. 18.3 Trinity Sunday Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the Second Person of the most Blessed Trinity Isa 6.3 COnsider 1. What Faith teacheth us concerning this most sacred mystery to wit three Persons subsistent in one single Nature or Essence of Divinity the Father unbegotten his only begotten Son and the Holy Ghost proceeding from both Imagine your self to see innumerable millions of Saints and Angels in heaven prostrate before the Throne of the Divinity with most prefound reverence and admiration of this incomprehensible Mystery and continually singing forth Holy holy holy the Lord God of Hosts Consider 2. The Second Person of this Sacred Trinity will abide with you this day and with him the other two the Father and the H. Ghost who being the self-same in Nature with the Son Suar. 2. p. to 3. disâ— 51. See 6. in a special manner are also present in the Eucharist What entertainment therefore will be sitting for such Guests what care of neatness and adorning your self with acts of virtue Consider 3. With what servour humility and devotion Abraham entertained the three Angels who represented the B. Trinity He received three but adored only one saith S. Augustine saying Aug. l. 16. c. 29. Civit. Lord if I have found grace in thy sight go not past thy servant Then himself ran to the Herd took from thence one of the best Calves and caused it to be boiled and set before them Do you the like and present your guests with the best you have to wit your heart well prepared by the sire of Charity and say with the Church In Offic. ss Triritatis Blessed be the holy and undivided Trinity now and ever and world without end Of the first Person of the B. Trinity or of the Eternal Father 2 Cor. 4.4 Heb. 1.3 COnsider 1. The Eternal Father as Faith teacheth is the Fountain and Origin of the other persons in the B. Trinity for understanding himself by an Intuitive Vision he begetteth the Eternal Word that is a most perfect and substantial Image of himself which is the Son the Image of God and the figure of his substance And again together with the Son by mutual love breatheth forth the Holy Ghost communicating unto them both his entire Nature without division retaining in himself his own proper personality uncommunicated Admire the sublimeness of this Mystery stir your self up to acts of Faith and acknowledge how weak mans understanding is to comprehend divine things O depth of the riches of the wisdome Rom. 11.33 I and of the knowledge of God c. Consider 2. Although all exteriour works of God are common to the whole Trinity notwithstanding those of Power and Omnipotency are appropriated to the Father such are the Creation Conservation and Government of the World whence you may learn both how much you ought to love him who created you and for your sake produced this admirable Structure of the Universe and how much reason you have to fear him Mat. 10.28 who in a moment can destroy both soul and body into hell Jo. 16.27 Consider 3. This Father and Lord of all things notwithstanding the greatness of his Majesty stoopeth so low beneath himself for love of us who at the best are but his Slaves and Vassals as to make us his children and heirs by adoption For the Father himself loveth you saith Christ Nay God so loved the world Jo. 3.16 that he gave bis only begotten Son for its redemption See therefore how much reason you have to love and reverence with your whole heart and with all your strength so loving a Father Of the Second Person of the B Trinity or of the Son Is 53.8 COnsider 1. That as Faith teacheth the Son was begotten from all Eternity without the least difference of time or point of inequality for he is Consubstantial Coeternal and in all things equal to the Father he is properly the Word of the Divine Intellect expressing in himself the whole substance of the Divinity the which being made as it were Vocal by the Incarnation declared unto us the secret Mysteries of the Father Who shall declare his generation Neither the Angels themselves can comprehend this unspeakable Procession Therefore what you cannot conceive either by sense or reason believe with a firm faith and rejoyce for the glory of the Son equal in all things with the Father Consider 2. The Sons love towards mankind who to redeem his Slave delivered himself over to death For us men and for our salvation Symb. Nicen he descended from heaven and was incarnate and born and that in so humble and contemptible a manner God was made man that man might be made God Aug. Ser. 9. de Nat. Leo Ser. 6. de Nat. Or as S. Leo saith Christ was made the Son of man that we might be made the Sons of God O ineffable love O incomprehensible favour Consider 3. How you may requite so great a love Doubtless it requires that you both reverence his divine person with the greatest devotion and respect and with as great tenderness love that sacred humanity which he took upon him and nailed to the Cross for your sake Say with S. Bernard S. Bern. Ser. 1. de Epiph. The more vile he is become for me so much the more dear he is to me and take heed least by sinning you alienate from your self so loving a friend Of the Third Person of the B. Trinity or of the Holy Ghost Pref. Miss COnsider 1. The Holy Ghost as the Third Person of the B. Trinity proceeding from the Father and the Son but coeternal and consubstantial to them both of equal power wisdom and so of the other divine Attributes For there is as the Church singeth Propriety in the Persons unity in the Essence and Equality in Majesty Do you also reverence and honour this divine person and joyn your voice with the Seraphins crying out Holy Is 6.3 holy
your self to expect our Lord to trust in him and the like Expect our Lord Ps 26.14 Psal 42.5 do manfully and let thy heart take courage and expect thou our Lord. Why art thou sorrowful O my soul and why doest thou trouble me Hope in God because yet will I confess to him XXXV SOLLICITATION As it were urging God to give you speedy aid God my God Psal 21.2 have respect to me why hast thou forsaken me Incline thine ear to me Psal 30.3 Ps 43.23 make hast to deliver me Arise why sleepest thou O Lord Arise and expell us not to the end XXXVI ZEAL Defiring that the glory of God may be propagated Psal 78.1 Ps 73.10 and his enemies humbled O God the Gentiles are come into thine inheritance they have polluted thy holy Temple How long O God shall the enemy upbraid Psal 67.2 the adversary provoke thy Name for ever Let God arise and let his enemies be dispersed These or other like affections you may make use of for your Colloquies and these or other such Versicles taken out of Scripture may perhaps help you to enter with greater facility into your Colloquies which afterwards you may prosecute more at large as your affection shall suggest and the Unction of the Divine Spirit shall teach you Manual And although it be expedient as hath been said to break into these Colloquies at any time during the Meditation yet this same is to be done with more earnest endeavour and exactness in the end sometimes calling upon the Eternal Father sometimes upon the Son at other times upon the Holy Ghost Sometimes also upon the Blessed Virgin our Angel Guardian the Saints our Patrons imploring their aid and intercession giving thanks c. as the present matter shall require Unto this Colloquy is to be ioyned some Vocal Prayer as the Pater Noster if the Colloquy be directed to God the Father Anima Christi sanctifica me The Soul of Christ sanctifie me if to the Son Veni Creator if to the Holy Ghost Ave Maria or some like to the Blessed Virgin or to the Saints It is a commendable practice of many having ended their Meditation to note down in brief in some little book for that end their good purposes and the chief lights which God communicated unto them in their prayer lest otherwise they come to be fruitless for as it sufficeth not for the bringing forth of fruit that good seed be cast into the ground unless it be kept and fostered in the bosome of the earth so neither will it be available for our souls spiritual good onely to have heard the voice or word of God in prayer But as Christ saith Blessed are they that hear the Word of God and keep it Luke 11.28 The Morning Entertainment O God my God to thee I watch from the morning light On the Feast of All-Saints Of Holy Communion Consider Christ in the Eucharist as God and Head of all Saints Ps 62.2 I Magin your self among the Blessed companies of Saints in Heaven contemplating the divine face of God and consider 1. How greaâ— is the Glory Riches Beauty and Majesty of that infinite Essence Thousands of thousands minister to him and ten thousand hundred thousands assist him saith Daniel Dan. 7.10 Think how great is his Power All things whatsoever our Lord would he hath doâ—â— in heaven in earth in the sea and in all the depths How great his Wisdom Great is our Lord Ps 134.6 and great is his strength and of his wisdom there is no number How great his Immensity which is higher thâ—n heaven Ps 146.5 Job 11.8 deâ—peâ— then hell longer then the earth and broader then the sea And so of his other divine Attributes Prov. 8.31 Consider 2. This so great a Majesty and Head of all the Saints whose memory you celebrate this day disdaineth not to enter the cottage of your soul and even desireth it himself according to that My delights are to be with the children of men not for that he stands in need of you who are but dust and ashes but to enrich your poverty with his infinite treasures Think therefore with your self what you are and who he is and cry out with the Prophet What is man that thou art mindful of him Ps 8.5 or the soâ— of man that thou visitest him Amos 4.12 Consider 3. You must diligently prepare your soul against the coming of so great a Guest according to that Be prepared to meet thy God O Israel Wherefore cleanse it first with the greatest purity that possibly you are able and not onely from Mortal but also from all Venial Sin For Blessed are the clean of heart Matt. 5.8 saith Christ for they shall see God Then enkindle in your self an ardent love that so you may deserve to keep him long with you according to that If any love me c. we will come to him Jo. 14.23 and will make abode with him Morn Ent. To day I shall dine with the King Esth 5.12 Note The first Sunday after All-Saints Of Holy Communion Consider Christ in the Eucharist as King ¶ This and the other Meditations on the Sundays of this Moneth are to be placed between Week and Week as they come in their turn Ps 2.6 COnsider 1. Christ is truly a King the King of Kings and Lord of Lords and not onely of one Province or parcel of earth but of all Heaven and Earth of Men and Angels I am appointed King by him over Sion c. and not for a time onely as other Kings upon earth but for ever and evermore Exod. 15.18 Wherefore all duties services and tribute which Subjects owe to their King are much more due from you to Christ See whether you have perform'd them hitherto or no. 1 Paral. 29.1 Consider 2. What you would do if some earthly Prince were to come to your house how carefully would you have it swept cleansed adorned and set in order lest there should be any thing that might offend the Prince's eye How much more ought the house of your Soul to be adorned which the King of Heaven will vouchsafe this day to enter in the Holy Eucharist for as David saith The habitation is not prepared for man but for God And if those women mentioned in Esther prepared themselves a whole year to appear but once before the King Assuerus Esth 2.12 For six moneths they were anointed with oyl of myrtle saith the Scripture and other six moneths they used certain paintings and sweet spices how much greater care ought to be taken to appear worthily before Christ our Lord Ps 44.11 Consider 3. In regard you are poor and have not any thing in your Soul fit to entertain such a Royal Guest beseech him to send before-hand as great Princes are wont to do furniture and provision worthy of himself Besides if you desire to be gracious in his sight you
man with me Besides it was an action that redounded to the dishonor and reproch of his schoole which had brought up such timorous and saint-hearted Disciples But he was chiefly concerned for their want of faith wherein they did all waver See you doe not leave Christ to suffer alone bear him company at least by affection and compassion Be content to be slighted and left by your friends Mat. 26.35 Consider 3. The weakness of mans nature in these Apostles who notwithstanding the many miracles they had seen Christ work the grace which they lately received by the divine Eucharist and fervor wherein every one said Allthough I should dye together with thee I will not deny thee Yet no sooner were they assaulted with temptation but they all failed Think how little reason you have to trust your self Eccli 2.1 Therefore coming to the service of God saith the wise man stand in fear and prepare thy Soul to Tentation And the Apostle Phil. 2.12 With fear and trembling work your Salvation Christ is led to Annas Jo. 18.13 COnsider 1. They brought him to Aâ—â—taâ— first Ponder how Christ would be brought before all the Tribunal seates for the greater Ignominy all the Tribunal seates for the greater Ignominy Therefore he is led first to Annas as President of the supreme Councel whereunto it appertained to judge of Doctrines See with what Clamor Laughter and Ignominy Christ is hurried along the ways and streets people running every where to their doores and windows to see the Captive How different was this enterance into Jerusalem from that which he made some sew days before when they cryed out Blessed is be that cometh in the name Mat. 21.9 of our Lord Hence learn to contemn the inconstancy of worldly favor Is. 9.3 Consider 2. How Christ is brought as a Criminal to the Tribunal of this Judge The Creator stands before his Creature The Eternal Wisdom of God is brought to the barr to give account of his Doctrine to an arrogant smatterer in the Law Behold the Doctors round about him all puffed up with their learning Rejoycing as conquerours rejoyce after a prey is taken Hear how they question him concerning his Doctrine and Disciples Beseech our Lord to instruct you in things appertaining to your salvation and not to let you harken after vain Sciences whose fruit is no other then pride and ostentation Jo. 18.20 21. Consider 3. How Christ beareth their reproches with silence but answereth resolutly to the point of Doctrine because thereon depended the salvation of many I have openly spoken to the world c. Why askest thou me ask them who have heard c. Learn hence to stand resolut in defence of your faith and of truth and to be silent in your own privat injuries See how he saith nothing of his Disciples because being he could not commend them as staggerers in their faith he would not say any thing to their dispraife Doe you in the same manner endevour to hide others defects when you may and not to discover them but to a good end Aug. l. 3. de Cons. c. 6. Of the Blow Christ received in Annas's House Jo. 18.22 COnsider 1. One of the Ministers standing by gave Jesus a blow Ponder here the General Circumstances Who To whom and What Think 1. How cruel this blow was as being given by a furious and armed Souldier 2. How ignominious before so great an assembly and inflicted upon his person whose sanctity of life and Miracles made him to be admired and respected by all 3. How unjust and Injurious for a most just and prudent answer 4. How grievous as being seconded with the loud laughter and scornful applause of the company O amiable countenance which the Angels so much desire to behold how hath this ignominious buffet set you all over in a blush Now my beloved is truly white and ruddy Cant. 5.10 and to be imitated by me both in candor of life and Vermillion of patience Jo. sâ—p Consider 2. On the contrary the mildness and patience of our Lord He is not moved to indignation he revengeth not though it were in his power and could in a moment have annihilated the wretch Yet modestly he justifyeth himself that he might not seem to have injured the high Priest whom he respected for the place and authority he bare If I have spok n ill give testimony of evill but if well why strikest thou me How different are your replyes when you have done amiss Endevour therefore to imitate your Lord Luc. 21.19 and in your patience to possess your Soul The Third Station Consider 3. And Annas sent him bound to Caiphas Imagin what a painful and ignominious journey this was to our Lord being haled and dragged about the streets at that time of night like some notorious malefactor from one Judgement seat to another Think what indignities he suffereth as he passeth along from all sorts of people even those that had received benefits from him What a spectacle was it to Heaven to see the Lord of Angels thus abused Condole admire give thanks imitate c. The Spirit of our Lord shall seise upon thee c. And thou shalt be chaâ—ged into an other man 1 Reg. 10.9 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the Transfigurer of your Soul COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Ghospel that Christ transfigured himself taking upon him the form of a glorious body Mat. 17.1 The same will he doe this day to your soul transfiguring it into himself by vertue of the Holy Eucharist if you doe not otherwise hinder him For the Eucharist makes us as S. Thomas speaketh the same with God S. Tho. Opus 58. c. 15. Aug. Cons l. 7.10 And S. Augustin maketh God to say I am the food of great ones grow and you shall feed on me yet so that thou shalt not change me into thee but thou shalt be changed into me Rom. 8.29 Gen. 3.5 Consider 2. What an inestimable benefit and dignity it is for man to be transformed into God and to be made conformable to the image of his Son It was the temptation of our first Parents You shall be as Gods but they were deluded By the Eucharist and the Grace that proceedeth from it we truly become one with God being made partakers of the divine nature and even incorporated and of the same bloud S. Cypr. Cat. 4. 1 Reg. 18.18 Jo. 1.12 with Christ as that Holy Father speaketh Humble your self therefore and say with the Prophet What am I or what is my life or the kindred of my father that I should be made not the Son in law of a King but the true adoptive Son of God for as many as received him be gave them power to be made the Sons of God Exod. 34.29 Consider 3. What is said of Moses that his face was horned that is resplendent and shining with two rays of glory
them so to be delivered over to Secular Power 1. Will be taken from her the gift of Faith for that she did not lead a life conformable 2. Will be taken also from her the gift of Hope for having neglected the means afforded her for the attaining her chiefest Good 3. She shall be deprived of all Supernatural Favors and Graces if she had any and of Moral Vertues which she made not right use of 4. Natural Sciences shall remain for her greater punishment for having preferred them before the knowledge of Salvation 5. The Character of Baptism shall also remain and whatsoever other she had for her greater ignominy that it may appear from what she is fallen and that she may be upbraided by the Infidels reproaching her with that scoff Luc. 14.30 This man began to build and he could not finish it Finally then will be fulfilled in her that of Ezechiel Ezech. 23.26 29. And they shall strip thee of thy garments and shall take away the vessels of thy glory c. and shall let thee go naked and full of ignominy Mat. 25.41 Consider 2. The terrour of the final Sentence that will be thundered out against the wicked Get ye away from me you cursed into fire everlasting c. O what a plight and horrour will the Soul be in at that time the Devils hurrying her presently away to everlasting torments But no remedy then to avoid it As yet you may if you be wise Ibid. v. 21 Consider 3. On the contrary the happy condition of the Just that will be found innocent in that Judgement Unto such it will be said Because thou hast been faithful over a few things I will place thee over many things Enter into the joy of thy Lord. Think what a joy that will be If you aspire to their lot imitate their life Of the General Judgement 1. Part. Jo. 5.22 COnsider 1. The causes of the General Judgement 1. To manifest the Glory and Power of Christ unto whom the Father hath given all judgement that all may honour the Son c. and that he who came visibly to save all men might also visibly and publickly come to judge all that the wicked may see and behold whom they have crucified 2. That the Just might have right and honour dore them and the wicked due punishment and God justified in his judgements who for the most part permitteth the Just to be afflicted while they live and the wicked to live in all prosperity 3. That the bodies also may receive due reward or punishment as they have been instruments of Vertue or Vice to the Souls Mat. 24.6 Luc. 21.11 Consider 2. The terror of the Judgement by the foregoing signs There shall be great earthquakes and pistilences and famines and terrours from Heaven The Sun shall be darkened and the Moon shall not give her light and the stars shall fall down from Heaven and the powers of heaven shall be moved or as St. Peter saith 2. Pet. 3.12 The Heavens burning shall he resolved The Sea shall roar in a horrid manner the Earth tremble and be all on fire Malach. 4.1 Behold the day shall come saith Malachy kindled as a furnace and all the proud and all that do impiety shall be stubble and the day coming shall inflame them c. Take heed therefore you prove not stubble in that fiery day Luc. 23.30 Consider 3. The Angel shall sound forth his dreadful trumpet the dead shall rise and take their bodies but with how different a countenance the just from the wicked How will these inveigh against their bodies for whose sake and pleasure they committed so many sins in their life time They shall say to the mountains fall upon us and to the hills cover us But then there will be no means to escape How much will it be wished for at that time above all the Crowns and Scepters of the world to have lived in the Grace of God Think therefore often of this Whether I eat or drink or do any thing else saith St. Jerome that dreadful voice doth ever soâ—ad in my ears Hieron Reg. Mon. c. 30 Arise ye dead and come to judgement Of the General Judgement 2. Part. Luc. 21.27 COnsider 1. The terrour of the Judgement increased by the appearance of the Judge Then they shall see the Son of man coming in a cloud with great power and majesty An innumerable company of Angels shall stand about him ready to execute whatsoever he shall decree Mat. 24.30 Then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in Heaven and then shall all tribes of the earth bewail to wit the enemies of Christs Crosse A Throne shall be set for the Judge in a bright Cloud and Seats round about for the Blessed Virgin and the Apostles From the Judge's countenance shall issue forth darts of love towards his friends but of fire and indignation against the reprobate Dan. 7.10 A fire and swift stream came forth from his face saith Daniel Who would not wish then to have been a friend in his life time of so dreadful a Judge Mat. 13.49 Consider 2. The Angels shall go forth and shall separate the evil from among the just These shall be placed at the right hand of the Judge as sheep The other on the lest as goats in contempt and ignominy Ponder the untimely repentance of the wicked especially when they shall see the Just above them Whom sometime they had in derision and in a parable of reproach We senseless esteemed their life madness Sap. 5.3 c. c. Behold how they are counted among the children of God Then will be exacted a most strict account of every particular and what perhaps you are now ashamed to open to your Confessor will then be known to the whole world Be careful now to blot out by Pennance what you would not then have known to your shame and ignominy Mat. 25.34 Consider 3. The just Sentence of the Judge He will say to the Saints Come ye blessed of my Father possess you the kingdom prepared for you c. To the wicked Ibid. v. 41. Get you away from me you cursed into fire everlasting Ponder the greatnesse both of the reward and of the punishment and chuse which you had rather it is now put into your own hands afterwards it will not Eccles. 9.10 Wherefore while you have time whatsoever thy hand is able to do work it instantly for neither work nor reason nor wisdom nor knowledge shall be in Hell whither thou dost hasten Of Hell 1. Part. Apoc. 19.20 COnsider 1. Hell is the dungeon of the damned full of all misery and void of all good Invent the cruellest pains and torments that you can imagine they would all be but a flea-bite in comparison of Hell The place it self shall be as S. John saith a pool of fire burning also with brimstone Wherefore it will be
saying those words of David Sacrifice and Oblation thou wouldst not c. Then said I behold I come Admire in the Son this voluntary Oblation of himself admire in the Father his most gracious acceptance O inestimable effect of Charity To redeem his slave he refused not to deliver up his onely Son Give thanks to both with the Holy Ghost and offer what you are able in gratitude Ps 93.17 Consider 3. What would have become of you had not Christ thus interposed himself You would have lain for ever in the filth of sin destinated according to your deserts to the flames of Hell So that you may with all truth say But that our Lord hath holpen me within very little my soul had dwelt in Hell Learn hence to esteem the greatnesse of the Benefit and seeing God hath thus bestowed himself upon you give your self up wholly to him Ps. 107.2 and say My heart is ready O God my heart is ready Of the divine Decree concerning Christs Incarnation 2. Part. Gen. 3.5 Phil. 2.7 COnsider 1. The admirable perfections of God discovered in this Decree And first his infinite Wisdom whereby he would cure our maladies by their contraries Man sinned through Pride vainly coveting a likenesse with God You shall be as Gods God would cure this sore by exinaniting himself taking the form of a servant and made into the similitude of men Detest Pride which hath brought so much evil into the world and imitate the example which Christ hath given you of Humility Jo. 3.16 Consider 2. His unspeakable Charity So God loved the World that he gave his onely begotten Son Even the Son himself so loved it as to give himself for it But Who and for whom The God of Majesty for a most vile and ungrateful Slave Love therefore so loving a Lord with your whole heart with all your soul and with all your strength and seeing you cannot sufficiently love him endeavour according to your state and calling to draw as many as you can into your company in the joynt love and service of him Consider 3. His infinite Goodnesse in communicating himself to man in the highest degree possible His mercy whereby he would take upon him our miseries to relieve us His Justice which that he might satisfie to the utmost rigour he made our whole debt his own Lastly his Power in joyning two extreams of infinite distance from one another God and Man Creatour and Creature O admirable conjunction Ps 97.1 2. Sing ye to our Lord a new song because he hath done marvellous things Our Lord hath made known his salvation in the sight of the Gentiles he hath revealed his Justice Of the Election of the Mother to the Word Incarnate 1. Part. COnsider 1. The Incarnation being decreed as to the substance the Eternal Word might have taken the perfect body of a man such as he framed for Adam without infringing the rigour of Justice which he desired to satisfie Notwithstanding he chose to be born of a Mother 1. So to honour both Sexes Man in his own Person Woman by taking flesh and bloud of Her 2. That in her we might also have a Mother and Advocatrix to her Son our Judge 3. That being thus made a sucking Infant and subject to his Mother he might give us example of humility and subjection Reflect how in all things he chuseth the worst and most repugnant to sense See and imitate Prov. 8.23 Consider 2. How the Word made choice of this individual Mother not for any merits of hers which then were none at all but to the end she might have merits Therefore he bestowed upon her the fulnesse of Grace and Vertue that so she might be made sit to be the Mother of God Congratulate with her for this her Election and Predestination from all Eternity From eternity I was ordained and of old before the earth was made Offer your sâ—lf to be her Client for ever and with all earnestnesse implore her aid and protection Ps 4.3 Consider 3. The Eternal Word would not have for his Mother any rich Personage or Princesse but one that was poor and of mean condition in the world thereby to confound our pride and vanity that seek and hunt greedily after such things as make a shew and noise in the world Ye sons of men how long are you of heavy heart Why love you vanity and seek lying Learn to contemn the judgements of the world and to esteem those things only great as are such in the sight of God and know that much worth and vertue often lieth under a contemptible disguise Of the Election of the Mother to the Word Incarnate And of her Prerogatives 2. Part. 3 Reg. 10.18 COnsider 1. It was fitting that the Eternal Word should honour his Mother and raise her above the common condition of Mortals by special Priviledges King Salomon made a great Throne of Ivory and covered it with Gold exceeding yellow c. There was not such a work made in all Kingdoms How much more sitting was it that the King of Heaven should adorn his Throne or Bed-chamber where he was to lie for nine moneths together Consider 2. Several of her Priviledges 1. Sanctity and that the greatest of any pure creature communicated unto her from the first moment of her Conception for it was not fit that the Mother of God should ever even for one single moment be under the slavery of the Devil 2. Suppression of Concupiscence 3. Confirmation in Grace so as never to forfeit it by Mortal Sin or even to suffer the least diminution of its fervour by Venial 4. Continual progresse in the same by heroick acts of Vertue whereby it was increased to an infinite proportion 5. The use of reason from the first moment 6. To conceive and remain a Virgin 7. To be in child-birth without pain 8. To be a Mother and delivered of her Son without detriment of her Virginal Integrity 9. To be a Mart a Sea Suar. c. 2.3 p. d. 18. sec 4. and Ocean of all manner of Grace so as to surpasse the perfections of all the Saints put together S. Bern. Consider 3. Her admirable Titles in being after an especial manner Daughter to the Eternal Father Mother to the onely begotten Son Spouse to the Holy Ghost and Soveraign Queen of Men and Angels She is also stiled the Mother of Mercy the Advocatrix of Mankind and Refuge of Sinners Think what a Refuge and Protection you have in such a Mother Commend your self earnestly to her for such is his will who will have us have all by Mary I will look towards our Lord I will expect God my Saviour Mich. 7.7 Mat. 11.3 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the expectation of the Gentiles Gen. 49.10 Agg. 2.8 COnsider 1. What is said to day in the Gospel Art thou he that art to come or look we for another Christ is the expectation of the Gentiles
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
of Jacob. And see that you be a Jacob Supplant and cast the Devil out of your heart wrestle with your own vicious inclinations and concupiscences Rom. 6.12 Let not sin reign in your mortal body that our Lord Jesus may reign in the house of your Soul and that for ever Say with the same St. Bernard Bern sup I have no other King then my Lord Jesus Luc. 1.34 c. Of the Blessed Virgins Reply 2 Cor. 4.7 HOw shall this be done c. Consider 1. How the Blessed Virgin who had hitherto been silent began at last to speak in defence of her Virginity which she would not forfeit to be Mother of God O admirable Purity In this Vertue she was truly singular and without example Learn hence 1. Both to speak and to be silent in their due times and circumstances 2. Not to be taken off from your good purposes and obligations upon any account without examining well how it may be done 3. To be cautious and nice in point of Chastity and not to cast your self in danger under pretence of what good soever knowing that we have this treasure of Chastity in carthen vessels Consider 2. The Holy Ghost shall come upon the and the power of the most High shall overshadow thee Ponder the excellency of Virginity whereof our Lord was so great a lover that whereas he took upon him all our other miseries yet he would not be conceived but of a Virgin and in favour of her love also to the same the divine Spirit of Purity it self wrought in her this mysterious Conception whereby her Son who as God proceeded wholly from his Father as man became entirely hers receiving from her alone what other children take from both parents Beseech our Lord to come also upon you by his holy Grace and with his shoulders to overshadow you especially in the day of battel Ps 90.4 Ps 139.8 against the heat of Concupiscence and vicious appetites Ps. 112.9 Consider 3. Behold Elizabeth thy couzen c. She who was barren becometh fruitful that you should know there is nothing impossible to God Therefore although you have hitherto been fruitlesse of good works yet by the divine Grace and your own concurrence you may come to be father of many and that not only in your self but also in your neighbour according to the condition and calling you are in Therefore even now begin to cooperate with Gods Grace for he will not be wanting who maketh the barren woman to dwell in a house a joyful mother of children Of the Virgins Consent COnsider 1. How earnestly the Angel and the whole Court of Heaven expected the Virgins consent Ber. hom 4 super missus O Lady saith St. Bernard speak the word which Heaven and Earth and the lower world expect from you At length she giveth her consent Behold the handmaid of our Lord. Admire her singular humility who being saluted Mother of God would still keep the name of handmaid This is that humility which our Lord regarded as she saith in her Canticle Magnificat and loved so much in her Put on the same humility in your life and actions if you desire the Holy Ghost should dwell in you for he sendeth forth fountains in the valleys Ps. 103.10 He watereth the humble with the fountains of his Grace but leaveth the mountains that is the high and proud ones dry Ps. 115.7 Consider 2. The name of handmaid or slave though it be contemptible among men yet in relation to God is honourable for we are truly his by the several titles of Creation Conservation and Redemption To him alone we ought to labour and to direct all things to his glory as did this blessed handmaid of his Offer your self therefore to God as a perpetual bond-slave and say with the Psalmist O Lord because I am thy servant I am thy servant and the son of thy handmaid the B. Virgin Mary Mat. 26.39 Consider 3. The admirable Obedience and Resignation of the B. Virgin in conforming her will to Gods divine pleasure Be it done to me according to thy word c. Think how grateful this answer was to God and to men and Angels Imitate her in resigning your will wholly into the hands of God and say in every thing Be it done to me O Lord according to thy word not to my will And Not as I will but as thou Think how joyful the Angel was for having obtained her consent and for the happy successe of his Embassage and how he returned without delay into Heaven full of admiration of the mystery of the Incarnation and of the Vertues and Excellencies of the Virgin Of the Accomplishment of the Incarnation Ps. 18.6 7 COnsider 1. How the B. Virgin having given her consent immediately the Eternal Word As a Bridegroom coming forth of his bride-chamber to celebrate 〈◊〉 Nâ—ptâ—â—â— wâ—â—â— humane nature Rejoyced as a giant to 〈◊〉 the way to unite unto himself our flesh and to begin the work of our Redemption Whence having presently framed a perfect body out of the most pure bloud of the B. Virgin and created a rational Soul he vouchsafed to unite his Divinity to them both Jo. 1.14 And thus the word was made flesh and dwelt in us Think with what joy of the Angels in Heaven of the Saints in Limbus of God himself and particularly of the B. Virgin now Mother of God Heb. 2.17 Consider 2. What manner of body the Eternal Word took upon him in the Virgins Womb He might have assumed an Immortal one and a Glorious Body had been but his due in regard of the Beatifical Vision But he took upon him mortal flesh and that of a little infant 1. That he might in all things be like unto his brethren 2. To oblige us to love him the more tenderly 3. To take from us all fear and make us come with confidence unto him 4. To give us example of Humility Patience and Mortification in enduring nine moneths straight imprisonment in his Mothers Womb. And 5. That he might as the Criminal pay in his flesh what were not his but our debts Humble your self you that are dust while you see the Lord of Majesty thus reduced in a manner to nothing for your sake Ps. 39.8 Consider 3. What the divine Infant did in the first instant of his Conception how he offered himself and his whole life and actions to his Eternal Father as a Holocaust and Sacrifice for our sins saying Behold I come and how the Eternal Father was pleased in this his new born Son saying Thou art my Son I this day have begotten thee Ps. 2.7 To day the Heavens did truly flow with honey while true Peace descended upon the Earth Mercy and Truth have met each other Ps. 14.11 c. Justice and Peace have kissed Truth is risen out of the Earth and Justice hath looked down from Heaven Draw me we will run
things up in your heart by serious Meditation and beg that the hand of our Lord may also be with you Zacheus come down in haste because this day I must abide in thy house Luc. 19.5 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the Guest of your Soul Apoc. 3.20 COnsider 1. How Christ although he be the Lord of Glory and Majesty whom thousands of millions attend on in heaven is notwithstanding wonderfully desirous to make himself your guest and to lodge in your Soul Whence in the Apocalyps he saith I stand at the dore and knock if any one shall open unto me the gate I will enter in to him and will sup with him and he with me O what a favour is this Who are you and who is he Luc. 3.4 Consider 2. What is said this day in the Gospel Prepare the way of our Lord make streight his paths You must make ready the room of your heart that it may be fit to entertain so great a guest He is content and well pleased with what is mean so it be but cleanly and therefore he would not take flesh but in the Virgins purest womb nor be layed but in a new Sepulchre and wrapped in a pure clean Winding-sheet He is highly taken with Humility and as much offended with Pride and Self-conceit If you be a valley you shall be filled up as it is said to day in the Gospel but if you be a hill or mountain you shall be humbled and taken down Meet him then prostrating your self before him and crying out from the bottom of your heart Luâ— 7.6 Lord I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof c. Gen. 18.3 c. 4 Reg. 4.8 Luc. 10.38 Prov. 23.26 Consider 3. With what prompt observance and hearty welcome anciently they did entertain their guests Abraham the three Angels the Sunamite woman the Prophet Elizeus Martha Christ himself Do you the like and the best you have set before him that is present him your whole heart My son saith he give me thy heart See it be all of a piece whole and entire not divided either by self-love or inordinate affection to things of this world Mat. 1.18 Of our Blessed Ladies Virginity revealed to St. Joseph 1. Part. COnsider 1. The singular Sanctity of St. Joseph answerable to so high an office though God had not as yet revealed unto him the Mystery of the Incarnation for a proof both of his and the Virgins Vertue Wherefore perceiving her to be grown big after her return from Elizabeth he was startled at it and began to be troubled in minde doubtful what he should do to keep himself blamelesse Thus God is wont to try his servants though but for a time Ps. 54.23 for he will not give fluctuation saith David to the Just for ever Consider 2. The many Vertues of the holy man in this perplexity of mind Patience in supporting and not divulging the matter Charity in not reproaching her Prudence in taking mature deliberation with himself of what were fit to be done Do you the like when any thing happeneth amisse in your brother beware of rash judgement follow that of St. Bernard Ber. ser 10. in Cant. Excuse the intention if you cannot the fact take it for a mistake judge it aâ— surprize think it a chance Is 24.16 Consider 3. The admirable Vertues of the B. Virgin in this surprize of Joseph She alleadgeth nothing in her own defence though easily she might Her honour was in question in a matter of the highest concern notwithstanding she chooseth rather to be silent and to commit the matter to God then to publish any thing that might turn to her own praise My secret to me You perhaps do not so but presently blab out whatsoever makes to your commendation and though you be in fault make a thousand excuses one upon the other in your sins Ps. 140.4 Mat. 1.20 Of our Blessed Ladies Virginity revealed to St. Joseph 2. Part. BEhold the Angel of our Lord appeared in sleep to Joseph Consider 1. The sum of the Angels Message 1. He honoureth Josâ—ph with the title of being son of David 2. He takes away all fear and trouble of mind 3. He justifieth the Virgin 4. He informs him of the Mystery of the Incarnation Ponder here how God was not wanting in due time to these holy persons but when all humane means failed sent them succour from heaven Admire the divine Providence which though it seems to leave us for a while yet will not abandon us for good and all For a moment Is 54.7 a little while saith he have I forsaken thee and in great mercies will I gather thee Consider 2. What excesse of joy St. Joseph was in when he understood of the Mystery of the Incarnation the Innocency of his Spouse and her election to be Mother of God where he understood himself to be assumed to that eminent dignity of being not only Guardian and Spouse to the Mother but also the reputed father of the Son of God and as father to give him the name of Jesus Think how he condemned himself as one rashly jealous Congratulate with him for this honour and reverence with singular devotion him whom both Mother and Son so highly favoured Cant. 5.2 2.11 Consider 3. The Angel disappearing probably St. Joseph impatient of delay went forthwith to his most innocent Spouse knocked at her chamber dore where she likely was watching in heavenly contemplation and used those woâ—ds of the Canticles Open to me my sister my love my beautiful one for winter is now past the rain is gone and departed Then he asked pardon with tears and recounted to her the whole passage of the Angels Vision Think what joy there was between them Learn to put your trust in God in like accidents who after a tempest maketh a calm Tâ—b 3.22 and after tears and weeping poureth in joyfulnesse Of the Expectation of the Virgins Delivery 1. Part. Luc. 12.50 COnsider 1. The Infant Christ shut up in his Mothers womb did earnestly long for the coming of that hour wherein he was to appear in the World to perfect the work of our Salvation so as even then to say I have to be baptized with a Baptisme and how am I straitened till it be dispatched He contained himself notwithstanding for nine whole moneths neither would he dispense one day with himself in that tedious and painful Inclosure but embraced it as a fit occasion of suffering for us of which nature he would omit nothing that came in his way What man in his wits according to flesh and bloud would suffer himself to be so long shut up in such a prison though it were to gain the world Be ashamed then to complain of small inconveniences when God himself suffered so great for you Cant. 8.1 Consider 2. The expectation on the behalf of the Mother now near her time and most
love nothing but what he loved that you may say with the Apostle I live now not I but Christ liveth in me Matt. 18.3 Consider 3. That you may enioy this little one you must become such an one your self For unless you become as little children you shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven Provide therefore for this little one a Crib or place of repose in your Soul swathe him with the bands of Charity defend him from the cold of a frozen heart 1 Reg. 15.17 Lastly Be little in your own eyes that you may deserve to be made Chief in the Tribes that is great among the Saints The Secrets of his Wisdom he revealeth to the little ones Mat. 11.25 Ps. 18.8 The testimony of our Lord is faithful saith David giving wisdom to little ones Of our Saviours Birth 1. Part. COnsider 1. The Blessed Virgin being in the Cave or Stable at Bethleem and perceiving her time to draw near retired her self as much as the place would permit and being in Spirit wholly fixed upon God by most high contemplation behold on a sudden bringeth forth into the world the Eternal Light The Blessed Infant issueth forth without breach of his Mothers Virginal Inclosure as afterwards he rose from his Monument though shut and made fast up And as the great Master of Humility at his first entrance into the world casteth himself on the bare ground What feeling had the Virgin at that time What affections of reverence towards her God of love towards her Son See how she takes him up in her lap kisses him wraps him in swathing bands lays him in the manger between the beasts that by their warm breath he might in some manner be defended against the cold See how she adoreth and giveth him thanks for his coming into the world and making choice of her to be his Mother How St. Joseph also performeth his part And out of all draw something for your own benefit Heb. 1.6 Consider 2. What joy was then in heaven How well pleased was the heavenly Father at this new sight And when again he bringeth in the first-begotten into the world he saith And let all the Angels of God adore him See how the Angels fall prostrate on their faces and adore him saying Holy Holy Holy c. And to the Blessed Virgin In Breviar ad Matut O Blessed Mother of God whose womb remaining untouched brought forth the Saviour of the World Rejoyce and congratulate with both and adore your new born Saviour Is 1.3 Consider 3. Then was fulfilled that of Isaie The Ox hath known his owner and the Ass his masters Crib but Israel hath not known me and my people hath not understood S. Bonav See how these silly creatures by divine instinct prostrating themselves adore their Creatour Corn. in Is c. 1. See whether you be not one of those Israelites and do not yet know your Lord being more insensible then the very bruit beasts themselves 1 Jo. 2.4 For he that saith he knoweth God and keepeth not his commandments is a lier Of our Saviours Birth 2. Part. I Magine your self in the Cave or Stable at Bethleem and fixing your eyes on the B. Infant lying in the manger ponder these general Circumstances Who What Where By what means Why How and When Ames 4. 13. Job 26.11 Who is this Infant The onely begotten Son of God and true God of God Our Lord God of hosts is his name The pillars of heaven tremble and dread at his beck Infinitely powerful infinitely wise immense eternal incomprehensible c. What He lieth as one helplesse He suffereth extremity of cold He is wrapped in poor swadling clouts He crieth and sheddeth rears as other Infarts Ps. 21.7 Where Far from his own countrey and home in a stable in a manger between two silly beasts as A worm and no man a reproach of men and outcast of the people With what means or conveniences Destitute of all without bed or bedding without fire without all manner of accommodation no servants or attendants having none about him but his poor Parents by whose care and labour he was maintained Why For your sake for love of you to give you example In Offic. Nativ Domini Is 53.7 To restore lost man to the Kingdom of Heaven Ps. 18.6 How Not forced but of his own free election He was offered because himself would Chearfully and with joy Therefore entring into the world He hath rejoyced as a Grant to run the way though rough and painful Act. 1.7 When In the very depth of Winter at midnight a time the most inconvenient of all other and yet both times and moments are all in his power Be astonished give thanks return love imitate c. And if you receive to day this Blessed Infant into the Crib of your heart be careful to entertain him well Of our Saviours Birth 3. Part. Tit. 3.4 COnsider 1. The admirable Vertues which are resplendent in this Mystery 1. The infinite Goodnesse and Benignity of God His Power appeared in the first Creation of the World Providence in the Government but after all in this mystery as St. Paul saith Appeared the Benignity and Kindness towards man of our Saviour God He was made man that he might the better be known by man born in poverty and want that he might the more endear himself unto us In an open stable to be the more easily found He lieth in a manger to encourage the poor his hands are bound that you need not fear to approach he concealeth his power to take away terrour he puteth on meeknesse to win you to himself c. 2 Cor. 8.9 Consider 2. His extream Poverty and love thereof expressed in this Mystery He made choice of a poor humble Maid for his Mother and of a Carpenter for his reputed father He was born out of house and home and in a stable lodged not in any bed of his own but in a manger upon straw and hay without sheets or blankets only wrapped up in a few clouts and all this being the Lord of all things For you saith the Apostle he was made poor whereas he was rich that by his poverty you might be rich If you be wise therefore be rich by imitating his poverty If. 53.3 Ps. 72.23 Consider 3. The incomparable example of his admirable Humility who being by nature God equal to the Father abased himself to the despicable condition of a slave and that the very vilest of them and the most abject of men Nay he is become for us as a beast even lying amongst them that so he might be with us without any regard to his honour which you are so miserably fond of Be confounded for that being but a worm you will be looked upon and regarded above others Of the Message sent to the Shepherds 1. Part. Luc. 14.11 Luc. 2.8 COnsider 1. Christ having humbled himself so low as
follow your Lord. Of our Spiritual Circumcision 2. Part. COnsider 1. Not only the Inward man as above in the Understanding and Will but also the Outward in the Exteriour Senses is to be circumcised Think with your self how many Souls have been cast into Hell by occasion of one single glance of the eye How many have perished by the abuse of the other Senses of Hearing Tasting c. Wherefore refrain your eyes from the sight of dangerous obiects chiefly of Womer and unchaste Pictures Your ears from any thing that soundeth of Vanity Curiosity and much more of Dishonesty Murmuring and Detraction Your Taste from excesse in eating and drinking also unnecessary and untimely repasts and so of the rest Consider 2. You must not omit among the rest to have a care of your Tongue and to cut off from it all Detraction Murmuring and whatsoever else serveth to sowe discord Likewise all manner of contentious injurious sawcy unseemly or immodest language Also lying cursing swearing and the like Lastly flattery double dealing dissimulation vain complements c. that you may be like to your Lord of whom it is said 1 Pet. 2.22 Who did no sin neither was there guile found in his mouth Examine your self in each particular and beseech our Lord with David Ps. 140.3 To set a watch to your mouth and a dore round about to your lips Jac. 3.2 Jac. 1.26 For If a man offend not in word this is a perfect man On the contrary If any man think himself to be religious not bridling his tongue c. this mans religion is vain 1 Tim. 6.8 Consider 3. You must finally cut off all Superfluities relating to the Body as in Clothing Sleep Pastimes and other Conveniences of this life Having food saith the Apostle and wherewith to be covered with these we are content Wherefore quit your self of all other things that you may become the more like to Christ who saith of himself Ps. 87.16 I am poor and in labours from my youth Rehold the Dominators and Lord cometh Introit Missae ex Malac. 3.1 Take with thee presents and go to meet him 4 Reg. 8.8 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as your Sovereign Lord to be adored with Offerings Mat. 2.2 COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Introit of the Masse Behold there cometh the Soveraign Lord and a Kingdom in his hand c. to wit that Christ is the Supream Lord of the whole Earth to whom all men even Kings and Princes are to pay Tribute in acknowledgement of this Soveraignty This the Sages by divine instinct understood and accordingly came this day to offer their Gifts He are come say they to adore him And opening their treasures they offered him gifts Gold Frankin couse Ibid. v. 11. and Myrrhe Deut. 16.6 Consider 2. This Soveraign Lord will come into your Soul to receive your Tribute and Presents and withall to return other far more precious gifts Wherefore Take gifts with you and go forth to meet him Bethink with your self what you can ofter for in Deuteronomy it was forbidden that any one should appear before our Lord without offerings There shall not appear before our Lord any empty But every one shall offer according to that be hath Consider 3. You must prepare a Throne in the middle of your Heart wherein to place and adore your Lord when he cometh Make him a Present of your Souls three Powers Memory Understanding and Will so that he may wholly dispose of them at his pleasure and not permit you to know affect or even think of any thing that may be lesse pleasing to him Offer him the Gold of Charity and Love the Frankincense of Prayer the Myrrhe of Mortification In fine give as much as you can for it will be returned back with advantage I the Lord thy God that teach thee profitable things Is 48.17 Lord shew me thy ways and teach me thy paths Ps. 24.4 Joel 2.23 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the Teacher of Justice ¶ This Sundays Meditation is to be inserted between the Week days as it shall fall out COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Gospel tha◠Christ was found in the middle o◠Doctours hearing them c. He is truly our Doctour or Teacher not of prophane Erudition but of Justice Whence the Prophet Ye children of Sion rejoyce and be joyful in the Lord your God because he hath given you a Doctor of Justice And he himself by the mouth of David inviteth us to a lesson of the fear of God Ps. 33.12 saying Come Children hear me I will teach you the fear of our Lord. Ps. 93.12 Consider 2. How much this Science of Justice ought to be preferred before all worldly Sciences These cannot save us but may serve to encrease our damnation if we make not right use of them This alone can make us happy for ever Hence think what a benefit it will be to have this Doctor come to day into your Soul for truly blessed is the man whom thou shalt instruct O Lord and shalt teach out of thy law 2 Cor. 6.16 Consider 3. How Christ state to day in the Temple among the Doctors See therefore that your Soul be a Temple of the living God as the Apostle warneth us not of Dagon that is of Sin Let it be a house of prayer not of worldly negotiation nor a den of thieves that is of vain thoughts of self-esteem robbing God of the honour which is due to him alone Then with all humility fall at the feet of your Lord with Magdalen and beseech him to teach you the way of Salvation For they that approach to his feet Deut. 33.3 shall receive of his doctrine Lastly bring with you an eagernesse to learn and resolve to put in execution what he shall say unto you lest otherwise he leave you to your self according to that of the Prophet Jer. 6.8 Be thou taught Jerusalem lest perhaps my Soul doth depart from thee Of the Sages Journey towards Jerusalem 1. Part. Ps 97.2 COnsider 1. Our Lord being born a Star appeared in the East and the Eternal Father as he had revealed his Sons Birth to the Jews by an Angel so would he likewise manifest the same to the Gentiles by a Star he being to be equally Saviour to both Jew and Gentile Rejoyce that the glory and greatness of your Lord was thus made known to the remote Nations of the World and give God thanks for having made known his salvation in the sight of the Gentiles whose first fruits these Sages were and in them to your self Mat. 22 14 Consider 2. The Star in the East appeared to all that were in those parts but few would stir to seek out our Lord or obey Gods call Thus Many be called but few elect Many there are to this day so wholly bent upon their temporal affairs that they neglect the light of divine inspirations
beauty of this your Spouse Goodly of beauty above the sons of men how great his Nobility Dignity Glory Riches Wisdom and Power that you may be the more inflamed with his love Consider 3. Marriage is nothing else but a mutual Contract between two of living together as one with communication of goods and fortunes Wherefore see you do not any more forsake him by sin though it were to gain the whole world Besides communicate freely with him and give him up whatsoever you have Adorn therefore and set out your self in the best manner you are able against the time of your meeting and like a good Spouse as the Apostle admonisheth in all things Study how you may please your Husband 1 Cor. 7.34 Luc. 2.22 Of the B. Virgins Purification COnsider 1. The B. Virgin having retired her self fourty days after her Child-birth goeth up to Jerusalem together with the B. Infant and St. Joseph in compliance with a double law of her own Purification and her Sons Presentation This Law concerned not her who conceived by the Holy Ghost not by man yet she would submit her self unto it 1. To imitate her Blessed Son who would be subject to the Law of Circumcision 2. Not to give offence or scandal to the Jews that knew nothing of the Mystery wrought in her 3. To conform her self in what was lawful to others of her Sex and not to appear singular 4. To be exemplar in works of greater perfection Note each particular and seek to make your benefit thereof If. 64.6 Consider 2. The admirable Vertues she exercised in this action 1. Her heroical Obedience exactly fulfilling whatsoever the Law required of others not pretending any exemption priviledge or dispensation nor using Epikeâ—as or interpretations even in that wherein she might lawfully have used them O that you were so even in things that you are obliged to 2. Her prefound Humility in concealing the Mysteious Conception and Birth of her Son and sustaining the repute of being unclean Be ashamed of your own pride in seeking to be accounted holy and without blame whereas you are but a miserable sinner and as the Prophet saith All your Justices as the cloth of a menstrued woman that is imperfect and saulty Ps 83.3 Consider 3. Her incomparable Purity wherein although she did excell all creatures yet out of the desire she had of becoming still more and more pure would not be without that Ceremonial Purification which the Law required in others Learn hence to go continually increasing in purity of body and mind though you may seem to your self never so much free from sin and imperfection Ponder lastly her singular Devotion in hastening to the Temple to offer up solemnly to the Eternal Father both his and her onely Son Her Soul coveted and fainted into the Courts of our Lord. Observe and imitate as often as you go to Mass to make the same Offering Luc. 2.22 Of our Lords Presentation in the Temple Gen. 8.21 THey carried him into Jerusalem to present him to our Lord. Consider 1. this Presentation and 1. in relation to the B. Virgin what acts of Vertue she exercised therein as of Faith Adoration Devotion and Thanksgiving towards God and of Charity towards men for whom she offered her onely Son 2. In relation to the divine Insant How he rejoyced that the hour was come which he had so much longed for wherein he was to be publickly presented to his Eternal Father as a living Sacrifice for the sins of the whole world and for yours in particular Think with what zeal of his Fathers Glory and Mans Salvation he also offered himself 3. In relation to the Eternal Father how acceptable this action was unto him If at the Offerings of Noe and others Our Lord smelled a sweet savour how much more at this Oblation of his beloved Son made also by himself and in the arms of his blesâ—ed Mother Lue. sup Levit. 12.8 Consider 2. And to give a Sacrifice c. a pair of Turtles or two young Pigcons One for an Holocaust saith the Law and another for Sin Where observe how the Virgin disdained not to be reputed poor that being the Sacrifice ordained by the Law for them that were not able to offer a lamb and a Sinner Be ashamed to disown either or to think much to be ranked among them Ponder what manner of gifts God requireth Turtles Pigeons Lambs by the Turtle is signified mourning and Pennance by the Pigeon simplicity by the Lamb mildness With these Vertues therefore present your self that so your Offering may be acceptable to him Exod. 13.13 Levit. 27.6 Consider 3. Christs Parents to fulfill the Law redeem their Son with five Sicles although the Evangelists mention it not Ponder 1. Who buyeth His Blessed Mother not to keep him for her self but to nurse and bring him up for us 2. Of whom doth she buy him Of his Eternal Father to whom he had lately been presented Thus he would have his Son to be ours by a double title first by Gift in his Incarnation and now again by Sale O that you were so liberal of your self to God! What is the price Five Sicles or pieces of silver Think at how easie a rate you may make God your own and withall how inexcusable you are in refusing to bestow that pains and labour for him which you do for the Vanities of the World Luc. 2.25 Of what passed with Simeon and others 1. Part. Eccle. 7.19 COnsider 1. And behold there was a man in Jerusalem c. Here is described the Sanctity of those that gave testimony of Christ for there is nothing of greater credit or authority then Innocency of life 1. He was Just and religious careful not to offend God in the least for he that feareth God neglecteth nothing 2. He was expecting the consolation of Israel by ardent desires and prayers powred forth with a great and holy confidence 3. And the Holy Ghost was in him inspiring him after a special manner to fix his thoughts and desires upon these heavenly things not on the terrene and vain objects of this world Such ought to be all those that have consecrated themselves to God Expecting not earthly things Tit. 2.13 but as the Apostle saith the blessed hope and advent of the glory of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ Consider 2. And he came in Spirit into the Temple Ponder the difference of them that frequent the Church some coming in Spirit others out of custom See how he came presently to know the Saviour of the World so much desired and longed for by the ancient Patriarks and Prophets See how he runneth to the Mother taketh the Blessed Infant into his arms and there entertains him with holy kisses and embracings O what flames of love would it kindle to have the Son of God so near Imitate these affections as often as you receive the Holy Eucharist and learn to go
it by his Prophet O all ye that pass by the way attend and see if there be sorrow like to my sorrow and in another place Thren 3.19 Remembâ—r my poverty c the wormwood and the gâ—ill Think with yourself if you had lost but an arme or a footâ— indefence of your friend might you not justly expect that he should be ever mindfull of the favour And what is that to what Christ hath suffered for you Thren 3.20 Consider 3. Offer therefore your self to Christ as an attentive spectator of his Sufferings and as a mindfull and grateful partaker of his benefits Say with the same Prophet Remembering I will be mindfull and my soul shall languish in me Recording this thing in my heart therefore I will hope And with reason may you hope seeing he suffered to the end that he might be our Advocat and that he might wash away our sins with his precious bloud finally seeing that even upon the Cross he granted Salvation and his Kingdom of Heaven to the Theef Of Christs Passion in General Who Suffereth THat you may be the better disposed to revolve the whole history of the Passion Consider first its general Circumstances and in the first place Who it is that Suffereth 1. He that suffereth is the Immacular Lambe of God Who did no sin 1 Pet. 2.22 as S. Peter saith neither was guile found in his mouth The Holy of Holies who received the divine spirit beyond measure and one whom his own Crucifiers confessed to be Just Mat. 27.54 and the Son of God 2. He suffereth who had bestowed himself wholy for the good of others Act. 10.39 Doing good and healing all that werre oppressed of the Divel Wherefore he did not only not deserve those Sufferings but on the contrary all respect and honour was due to him so that he might justly complain with David They repayed me evill things for good Learn to suffer evill at their hands Ps. 34.12 from whom you have deserved kindness and gratitude 3. He that suffereth is the great lover of mankind who is become all things to us for he is our Father and our brother He is our Master Physitian Spouse Pastour Cretour Redeemer and Benefactour If therefore the Son ought to be sensible of his Fathers Sufferings the spouse of her beloveds See that you have compassion of him who is your Father Spouse and Redeemer and beare his marks if not in your flesh as the Apostle at least in your heart and mind Think what you may doe or suffer in return for his sake Of Christs Passion in General How much he Suffereth Consider 1. He suffereth in all kinds 1. In externall goods for he was despoiled of all things stript of his clothes to the very skin and hanged naked on the Cross before all the world 2. In his honour for that all manner of reproch and slander was cast upon him 3. In fame being variously traduced in matters belonging to all sorts of Vertues held for a Samaritan and possessed of the Divel a Glutton and lover of Wine a Blasphemer and Seducer 4. In point of knowledg he was esteemed as one without litterature or learning a madman and foole 5. As for Miracles he was accounted an Impostor and Inchanter 6. He suffered in his friends being forsaken by them all Consider 2. How much he suffered in his body Go through all his senses His eyes are defiled with spittle and filled with bloud falling down from his sacred head they were also tormented to see the scornfull gestures and mockeries of them that reviled him His cares were wounded with rough pulls and pinches but much more with blasphemies against God and unjust accusations brought against himself His smell annoyed with the stench of Calvary His taste tormented with vehement thirst and bitter drench of Vinegar and gall Lastly the sense of feeling over all the parts of his body by stripes thornes and nailes so that it was most truely said of him Js. 1.6 from the sole of the foot to the top of the head there is no health Consider 3. And add to these the Interior Anguishes of his mind as that of his Agony in the Garden that other of his being left by his Father on the Cross and others such like Be ashamed that you cannot so much as endure the cold of winter or heat of Summer and much less suffer patiently some small sicknesse Wish that you may come to suffer any thing and even die for Christ Of Christs Passion in Generall From whom he suffereth COnsider 1. He suffereth from all sorts of Men from the highest and the lowest from the Sacred and the profane being dragged about the streets by the scum of the people forsaken by his friends accused by the Priests made a laughing stock by the Souldiers condemned in the High Priests Councel ignominiously treated in the Kings Court and sentenced to death at the Presidents Tribunal Learn hence to contemn the judgements of men who were so highly unjust and injurious to Christ Jo. 15.25 Consider 2. He suffered from those whom he came to save and to whom he had been singularly beneficial all the time of his preaching so that he might truely say That they hated him gratis for nothing And which is yet more he suffered himself to be betrayed by his own disciple to give us example of Parience in the like failings of friends For the man also of my peace Ps. 40.10 in whom I hoped c Hath greatly troden me â—â—dâ—r foot Luc. 22.53 Consider 3. How he was exposed and left to the Tyranny of the Divel according to that of S. Luke This is your hour and the power of darkness He was given over to Sathan not as Job was with that restriction Yet save his life but absolutly Job 2.6 and even to death it self Have compassion towards your Lord thus forsaken by his friends and left to the mercy of his enemies and if at any time it be your fortune to experience the like mockeries of men Mat. 10.24 remember that the Diciple is not to be above his Master Of Christs Passion in Generall For whom he Suffereth COnsider 1. He suffereth not for himself being incapable of doing any thing that might deserve punishment but for all men to reconcile them to his Eternal Father and to open unto them all as much as lay in him the gates of Heaven And because the whole man was wounded he would suffer in every kind that so he might apply proper remedies to every vice Therefore against our Covetousness he opposed his Nakedness his Reproches against our Pride his Torments against our Luxury his vinegar and Gall against our Gluttony and so of the rest Rom. 5.8.10 Consider 2. More particularly how he suffered also for his Enemies that is for all Sinners God commendeth his charity in us because when at yet we were Sinners Christ died for us c. And when we were enemies
whom you behold in the outward shape of man the same is God and Lord of all things the Messias Saviour Doctor and Pastor of men who for love of mankind abased himself beneath the condition of a slave even to this lamentable plight Mat. 12.18 Consider 2. And imagin these same words spoken by the Eternal Father proposing his Son as an example of all Vertue for you to imitate Behold the man Behold the servant whom I have chosen my beloved in whom my soul hath well liked Look Exod. 25.40 and make it or doe according to the pattern He suffereth himself to be contemned and scoffed at to confound your pride He is naked to correct your Covetousnes He indureth excessive torments to satisfy for your sensuality He turneth his cheeke to the striker to allay your anger and passion and so of the rest See therefore how you may imitate 1 Jo. 2.2 Ps. 83.10 Consider 3. These words may be spoken by you and by the whole Church to the Eternal Father offering Christ unto him as a pacifick Host for all our sinnes O Eternal Father Behold the man who in the name of all mankind is come to pay Adams ransome He is the Propitiation for our sinnes Therefore behold O God our Protectour and look upon the face of thy Christ Say the same often to your self with affections of compassion to your Lord and Saviour of gratitude for suffering so much for love of you of confidence and hope in so great a goodness and of an ardent desire of imitating his example and of suffering for love of him Mat. 27. Luc. 23. Christ is condemned to death Mat. 27.19 COnsider 1. As Pilat was sitting in place of Judgement his wife sent unto him c. Ponder the goodnes of God seeking divers ways to hinder the sins of men as here he did admonishing Pilat by his wife and her in sleep so that it may be justly objected to every sinner Perdition is thine O Israel O how often hath he admonished you Osee 13.9 speaking interiorly to your heart by holy Inspirations and exteriorly by Preachers and superiours forbidding you to doe this or that and yet you have not given over Be careful hereafter to be more observant of his admonitions Mat. 27.24 Consider 2. Pilat seeing that he nothing prevailed c. Taking water washed his hands saying I am innocent of the bloud of this Just man And yet at the same time pronounced sentence of Death against him So many pretend innocency in their life but matter not their foul mouthes they will not offend their neighbour in their outward actions but scruple not to wound him with their tongues Hear how the Jews cry out His bloud be upon us and upon our Children See how the heat of passion casteth a man head-long upon his own ruine And have a care you be not over-ruled by any Luc. 23.24 Consider 3. And Pilat judged their petition to be done Think how unjust this sentence was whereby the Author of life was condemned to death allmost in the same breath wherewith he was pronounced Just and innocent and how wickedly Pilat did in yeelding to their unjust demands against his own conscience that you might learn to stand resolutly for Justice although you were to suffer a thousand deaths for it Think with what shouts the people wellcomed this sentence and how the Priests and Pharises triumphed Ponder what feeling Christ himself had at that time how he complained not nor made any opposition but with an undaunted mind 1 Pet. 2.23 delivered himself to him that judged him unjustly Christ carrieth his Cross Rom. 13.14 COnsider 1. Sentence of Death being given Christ is stripped of the Purple Garment and cloathed with his own that he might be the better known in his own attire The robe is taken off not the crown that he might not be without torment So you likewise if you desire to carry your Cross after our Lord must cast off the purple robe that is the love of the world and put on the garments and livery of Christ to wit Mildness and Patience according to that of the Apostle Doe ye on our Lord Jesus Christ Consider 2. The Cross being brought forth ponderous in weight and fifteen foot in length our Saviour doubtless exulted and with greater reason and feeling then did afterwards his Disciple S. Andrew saluted the same in those or the like words Wellcome O pretious Cross long wished-for Barrad l. 7. c. 10. entirely beloved and now at last prepared to my hearts desire he imbraced kissed and took it upon his shoulders O what shouting and laughter was there then among the people For his greater Ignominy there are led with him two theeves But with what difference both of countenance and disposition of mind doe they beare their several Crosses Think with your self whom you will rather choose to imitate in carrying yours Jo. 19.17 Consider 3. And bearing his own Cross he went forth c. To wit between two theeves the Cryer all along proclaming the respective causes of their death Gen. 22.6 So did Isaac formerly carry on his shoulders the wood of the Holocaust whereon himself was to be sacrificed See how the tender and feeble members of Christ shrink under the heavy burthen and how he stumbleth and falleth often to the ground as he goeth being quite tired-out and exhausted by his torments O Angels of Heaven why doe you not ease his burthen But your sins O my Soul are more burthensome unto him for our Lord hath put upon him saith Isaie the Iniquity of all us Cease therefore to sin Is. 53.6 that you may likewise cease to burthen him Of Meeting the Blessed Virgin COnsider 1. Christ being sentenced to death the news was probably carryed to the B. Virgin by some of the Disciples Ponder how according to Simeons prophecy her Soul is here pierced with the sword of griefe She might likely say with David Who would grant me that I might dye for thee Jesus my Son my Son Jesus She resigned herself 2 Reg. 18.33 notwithstanding wholy to the will of God according to that As it shall be the will in Heaven so be it done 1 Mach. 3.60 Consider 2. How notwithstanding her grief with an undaunted courage she resolveth to goe to the place of Execution to give her last embracements and farewel to her B. Son She stays therefore with other women by the way side where her Son was to pass by Think what torment of mind she felt when she first saw the rout of people coming along with Nailes Hammers Ladders and other such like instruments What afterward when she beheld her most innocent Son coming between two theeves laden with a heavy Cross and cudgelled on by the Souldiers to make hast Condole with them both and grieve for giving cause of their sufferings by your Sinns Luc. 23.28 Consider 3. Those words of Christ to
the other women that followed Weep not upon me but weep upon your selves and upon your Children c. For if in the green wood they doe these things in the dry what shall be done Christ was a fresh green and juicy stock full of all manner of grace and perfection all we sinners are as so many dry sticks fit for nothing but the fyre If then the green wood was in that heat of suffering for the sinns of others how will the dry withered sticks burn in Hell or Purgatory for their own And if God the father did so severely chastize the offences of his slaves in the person of his most innocent Son how much more will he punish them in the offenders themselves Eccla in Off. Def. when That day shall once come the day of wrath calamity and misery Weep therefore for your self now that you may not hereafter be forced to weep for ever I will expect our Lord who hath hid his face from the house of Jacob and I will wait for him Is 8.17 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as a hidden God Is. 45.15 COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Ghospel how Christ hid himself from the Jews that would have stoned him Jo. 8.59 in memory whereof the Crosses this day are covered in the Churches and Christ himself by Isaie is termed a hidden God Verily thou art God hidden the God of Israel a Saviour And speaking of him in his Passion he saith Is. 53.3 His look as it were hid and despised He hid his Divinity under the disguise of flesh and bloud his glory with the Ignominy of his Passion and both his flesh and Divinity under the formes of bread and wine so that the Psalmist with reason said of him Ps. 30.20 How great is the multitude of thy sweetness O Lord which thou hast hid for them that fear thee Seq in festâ— Corp. Chr. Consider 2. In the Eucharist not only the flesh it self of Christ is hidden from our senses for the greater merit of our faith but also its Vertue and efficacy whence it is that not all that come to this Sacrament doe taste of its sweetness and delight nay it is no less then death to the bad as it is life to the good And even among the good it worketh in every one very different effects so that it may deservedly be called a hidden Manna and a white counter and a new name written Apoc. 2.17 which no man knoweth but he that receiveth it Ibid. Consider 3. If you desire to know the sweetness of this hidden Manna 1. Be Master of your self and your Appetites for To him that overcometh saith our Lord I will give the hidden Manna 2. Be humble and little in your own eyes Mat. 11.25 Thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent and hast revealed them to little ones Cant. 2.14 Deut. 32.13 1 Cor. 10.4 3. Hide your self in the holes of the Rock in Christs wounds and Meditation of his Passion and so you will come truly to suck honey out of the Rock For The Rock as the Apostle saith was Christ Of Crucifying our Lord. Part 1. COnsider 1. Being come to the place appointed for execution our Lord is again stripped naked of his clothes in the sight of so great a multitude before the insolent Souldiers and them that sought for nothing more then subject of scorn and laughter He beareth patiently this Ignominy due to our Sins and giveth us thereby in his own person a lively example of Evangelical poverty Then to the end that no sense might be without its torment Mat. 27.34 They gave him wine to drink mingled with gall And when he had tasted he would not drink Ambr. in Luc. c. 25. Not for the galls sake saith S. Ambrose but for that he refuseth such bitternesses as are mingled with wine For our Saviour would swallow down the bitter pills of his Passion without the mixture of any sweetness Be ashamed for seeking dainties for your palat and for murmuring when they are not afforded Is. 55.8 Consider 2. The Circumstance of Place It was a high hill exposed to the view of all for the greater Ignominy full of deadmens bones for the greater horror and loathsomness Our Lord made choice of an obscure place to be born in thereby to conceal his glory but would dye hanged up a loft openly in the sight of all and in the middle of the Earth as some observe for the greater infamy How different O Lord are your cogitations from our cogitations and your ways from our ways We strive what we can to conceale whatsoever is in us that may turn to our disgrace and divulge alâ— that makes to our praise and commendation Is. 53.7 Consider 3. The Circumstance of Time On the most solemn festivity of Easter at what time all the people were wont to flock to Jerusalem at brode light and in the very heat of Noon day to signify the fervor of his Charity wherewith as with fire this holocaust was consumed For he was offered because himself would and at what time he would and where he would and with whom he would but withall would doe it in that manner that he might teach us by his own example to contemn all things Of Crucifying our Lord. Part 2. Gen. 22.9 COnsider 1. All things being now ready for his crucifying he is insolently thrown down by the Executioner upon the Cross See how obediently he placeth himself thereon and like Isaac when he lay on the Alter upon the pile of wood offereth himself in Sacrifice to his Eternal Father See how he stretcheth forth his hands to the holes whereto they were to be nailed for Adams stretching forth his to the forbidden fruite Hear the hideous sound of the hammers knocking the nailes into his Sacred hands and feet See the streames of bloud running down upon the ground and learn by the example of our Lord to crucify your flesh Galat. 5.24 with the vices and concupiscences as the Apostle teacheth Ps 21.18 Consider 2. What excessive torment must our blessed Lord feel in those tender parts and full of sinews especially being violently stretched out and probably also disjoynted to make them reach to the holes so as to fullfill that of the Prophet They have digged my hands and my feet they have numbred all my bones Compassionat your deare Lord and grieve for having been cause of these his torments by your sins Bern. ser de Nativit Acknowledge O man saith S. Bernard how grievous your wounds are that is your sins for which it was necessary our Lord should be wounded Consider 3. Our Lord being nailed to the Cross is pulled up on high and violently let down again into the trench they had made to fasten the Cross in to the unspeakable increase of all his torments O what a spectacle was this to the World to Angels 1 Cor. 4.9 and
to Men Of compassion and astonishment to the Angels of scorn and derision to the wicked of compunction and example to the Just and a Sacrifice most acceptable to the Eternal Father Fall at the feet of the Crucifix take up the sacred bloud that falleth down and speak what affection shall suggest Of Crucifying our Lord. Part 3. COnsider 1. What Christ might doe say or think hanging on the Cross and in those hideous torments when he received no comfort either exteriourly from men or interiourly in his Soul If he stirred his body it was tormented a fresh by the wounds of his hands and feet whereon the whole weight of his body did hang. If he moved his head the thorns were stroken in the deeper and yet not the least sigh or moan or complaint was heard to proceed from him but he offered all to his Eternal Father for your and others sins Mat. 27.39 c. Consider 2. And they that passed-by blasphemed him The Priests the Souldiers and all sorts of men They upbraided him 1. With Impotency He saved others himself he cannot save 2. With Arrogancy as vainly taking upon him the title of King If he be King of Isarel let him come down 3. As counterfeiting himself Son of God and presumptuously relying thereon He trusted in God let him now deliver him if he will c. 4. As boasting of himself Vah thou that destroyest the Temple of God and in three days doest reedify it To all this he holdeth his peace as a dumb sign or mark exposed to all manner of contradiction So as to be filled with reproches Thren 3 3â— Is 53.5 Consider 3. Christ would not come down from the Cross nor shorten the durance of his pains as easily he might but would continue in them to the last breath without admitting any manner of comfort that you might also learn to persever in good even untill death Take notice also that he suffered all this for our sins He was wounded for our iniquities he was broken for our sins Take heed therefore lest returning to sin Hebr. 6.6 you crucify again to your self as the Apostle speaketh and to your own ruine the Son of God Of Christs first word on the Cross Father forgive them c. Luc. 23.34 Luc. 9 3â— COnsider 1. Christs was given to the world by his Eternal Father as a Doctor or Master to teach us the way of Salvation This is my beloved Son bear him Hear him then from the Cross as his Pulpit or chaire reading seven admirable lessons unto you and seek to prove a diligent disciple in his schoole that you may say with the Apostle 1 Cor. 2.2 I judged not my self to know any thing among you but Jesus Christ and him crucifyed Is. 53.12 Consider 2. Christs first Lesson is of loving our Enemies and praying for them Father forgive them for they know not what they doe He doth not call fire down from Heaven upon his persecutors as did Elias nor curseth them as Elizeus but asketh pardon for his enemies and as Isaie saith prayeth for the transgressors fullfilling by deeds what before he commended in words Pray for them that persecute Mat. 5.44 and abuse you See whether you doe so I say not only for your enemies that persecute you but for your familiars and neighbours who may perhaps offend you with some light word or injury Consider 3. More particularly each circumstance Who is it that prayeth The Son of God Whom doth he pray His Eternal Father Where On the tree of the Cross At what time When he was quite spent and exhausted with suffering and now ready to dye In what manner Not sitting or lying at his ease but strait erected upon his feet and stretching forth his hands In what termes Not many but full of affection and mingled with sighs teares and blood For whom for sinners for his enemies persecuters and tormenters What doth he ask Mercy Before whom To the hearing of all even his Adversaries that you might learn Mildnes and Charity towards all and in all occasions Of the Second Word Luc. 23.43 This day thou shalt be with me in Paradise Is. 53.12 COnsider 1. It was none of the least Ignominies which our Saviour suffered to hang between two theeves as their ringleader making good that of the Prophet And he was reputed with the wicked He was born between two silly beasts and would dye between two theeves to give us example of Humility though in Heaven he be seated between the Father and the Holy Ghost Ambr. in Luc. c. 23. Even he himself as S. Ambrose speaketh was a theefe by Mistery laying wait for the Divel to steale away his weapons and on the Cross robbed him of a theefe O Lord rob me thus of my heart that it may serve you alone Ambr. sup Consider 2. Those words of Christ This day thou shalt be with me in Paradise Admire the riches of Gods Bounty and Longanimity He takes up infamous robbers and makes them his sons and heires of his Kingdom and this at the first word without any put-ofs or delays This very day thou shalt be with me He giveth the theef incomparably more then he demanded of him He craved only a remembrance and Christ promiseth him a Kingdom for as S. Ambrose saith Our Lord ever bestoweth more then is demanded of him and his grant is larger then the Petition Who would not love and willingly serve such a Lord Job 33.27 Consider 3. Three several sorts of sufferers in these three that were put to the same death of the Cross some deservedly but impatiently as the bad theef Others though deservedly yet patiently as the good theef Others again both undeservedly and withall patiently as Christ our Lord. Seek to be one of the two later sorts at least be of the second and confess with holy Job I have sinned and indeed I have offended and as I was worthy I have not received for you are truly worthy of many stripes Of the Third Word Woman behold thy Son Jo. 19.25 COnsider 1. And there stood beside the Cross of Jesus his Mother Ponder how his blessed Mother and other devout persons stood neer the Cross Whence you may learn that the lovers of Christ are also lovers of his Cross and the neerer they stand to this the more they shew their love to him Think how his B. Mother was afflicted when she saw her son and that such an one so barbarously used S. Bonav Your Son O Virgiâ— saith S. Bonaventure suffered in his body you in mind The several wounds which were all over his body met together in one within your heart Yet she gave not the least sign of impatience not did she any thing misbeseeming her person that you might learn to compassionat Christ together with her and withall to suffer your own adversities with courage Jo. sup Consider 2. Woman behold thy Son He calleth her
woman not Mother that he might not seem to regard flesh and bloud who was wholy employed in doing the will of his Eternal Father and that he might not the more deeply wound her afflicted heart with the tender name of Mother He commends unto her his Disciple S. John and in him all Christians that she who is so powerful with God might be a Mother to us She willingly accepteth the charge so that she is deservedly stiled by the Saints The Mother of the living S. Epiph. l. 3. hom 78. Hym. Ave Maris stella Recommend your self therefore unto her saying with the Church shew your self a Mother Eccli 13.20 Consider 3. Behold your Mother To wit so as to have recours unto her as a child to his Mother and that you love respect and assist her as your own parent Teaching us herein to be careful of our parents to our last breath Observe how he recommends Virgin to Virgin Be therefore a lover of Chastity if you desire to be ranked among the sons of Mary For like to like and as the Wise man saith Every man will associat himself to his like Imitat S. John in devotion to your Sacred Mother who from that hour took her to his own Behold thy King cometh to thee meek Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as a milde King Mat. 21.5 COnsider 1. What is said this day in the Ghospel Behold thy King cometh to thee meek Thou art the same my King and my God Ps. 43.5 which commandest the Salvations of Jacob. At other times we may take him as the King of Majesty the King of Glory a powerful King and exceeding dreadful But in his Passion he would shew himself a milde King who when he suffered threatened not c. 1 Pet. 2.23 And therefore to day sitteth upon an Ass a gentle tame beast Ps. 98.1 Ps. 103.3 who at other times is said to sit upon the Cherubs and walk upon the wings of the winds With this mildness he will come to you in the Eucharist wherein that you might not dread his Majesty he lyeth hid under the disguise and form of most delicious food and suffereth himself with admirable patience and longanimity to be taken into the mouths and brests even of his enemies Ps. 22.2 Consider 2. How much you ought to wish that this King may come and raign in your soul and subdue all your unruly passions For he is both of infinit wisdom and power to govern and protect you and as infinitly rich and bountiful to reward and Crown you Our Lord ruleth me saith David and nothing shall be wanting to me Wherefore if you will want nothing deliver your self to be ruled by him Consider 3. You must duely prepare your soul to receive your King so that he may come to visit you in his mildnes not in his fury and indignation Goe forth therefore to meet him like the Children of Jerusalem carrying with you fresh green branches of good works spead your garments in his way and cast under his feet at least in affection all earthly and worldly concerns sound forth and sing his prayses and say with the Prophet I will exalt thee my God the King Ps. 144.1 Ps. 5.3 and I will bless thy name for ever And Attend to the voice of my prayer my King and my God Of the fourth Word My God my God c. Mat. 27.46 COnsider 1. About the ninth hour Jesus cryed with a mighty Voice saying My God my God why hast thou forsaken me A loud cry and voice are signs of excessive griefe for our Lord was left all alone in his sufferings which continued a long time with exceeding great torment destitute of all manner of comfort which might arise from the Inferiour part of the soul forsaken of his own people even Disciples forseeing withall that the greatest part of the world would forsake him to whom all those bitter torments of his would prove in vaine so that now was truly fullfilled that of Jeremy the Prophet Thren 2.13 Great is thy destruction as the Sea who shall heale thee Consider 2. Christ our Lord could easily have freed himself from these interious anguishes of mind by giving way to the joys of the Beatifical vision which possessed the Superiour Powers of his Soul to overflow also the inferiour but would endure them all that he might be the more like to us in all things and withall to instruct us how to behave our selves in time of Desolation Dryness in Devotion and Trouble of mind which are incident to persons even of the greatest Vertue and Perfection Learn therefore to stand resolutly in like occasions to betake your self to prayer and to hold out with patience in expectation of Gods divine assistance Habac. 2.3 Because coming he will come saith the Prophet and he will not slack Ps. 25.2 Consider 3. If God the Father left his beloved Son in this manner wonder not if he seem to leave you to your self for some time without all comfort Nay such Desolations are signs of his love sent us for tryall of our Constancy and inlargement of our Crown Whence it is that David said Prove me O Lord and tempt me burn my reines and my heart Offer your self in like manner Only beg of him with the same Prophet that when he leaves you Ps. 118.8 he forsakes you not wholy Of the fifth Word I thirst Jo. 19.28 COnsider 1. Jesus knowing that all things were now consummate c. He saith I thirst Christ had a double thirst Corporal and Spiritual His Corporal thirst was most vehement and inflamed with his last nights restless watching weariness interiour affliction and effusion of so much bloud Our Blessed Lord would also suffer this torment for our instruction neither would he quench his own thirst Ps. 77.16 Judic 15.19 who brought forth water out of the Rock for his people that thirsted in the desert and afforded Sampson in his thirst drink out of the jawe of an Ass that you might learn to suffer hunger thirst and other corporal incommodities Consider 2. And they putting a sponge full of Vinegre about Hyssope on the top of a cane offered to his mouth not to refresh but to torment him a new Ps. 135.25 Ps. 144.17 What a potion was this for the Son of God who giveth food to all flesh And filleth every living creature with blessing How much better drink doth â—ie afford us of his own pretious bloud in the Holy Eucharist Ps. 22.5 And your chalice inebriating O Lord how good is it Be ashamed for being so nice in your drink and perhaps complaining also if it happen to be any thing stale harsh unpleasant c. Mat. 5.6 Consider 3. Christs spiritual thirst which was chiefly of three things 1. Of obeying his Heavenly Father and fullfilling whatsoever was written of him 2. Of suffering yet more to which purpose he openly proclamed his thirst
the whole world with the rayes of his glory What Jubily were the Holy Fathers in at that time when they saw that Blessed hour come of their delivery which they had longed for so many ages Free O Lord in like manner my Soul from the Lions mouth and from the deep lake and let not my Enemies The World the Flesh and the Devil ever domineere over me Consider 2. How when Christs Soul was come out of Limbus to the body in the Sepulcher he shewed it to the Holy Fathers as it lay pale and wan all mangled and disfigured that they might see how much he had suffered for them and at what rate he had redeemed them Then he reunited it to the Soul and that of David was fullfilled Our Lord hath reigned Ps. 92.1 he hath put on beauty Our Lord hath put on strength and hath girded himself For he took upon him the four properties of a glorifyed body 1. Of Clarity rendring it brighter then the Sun it self 2. Of Subtility to penetrate the Sepulcher and whatsoever other corporal substance 3. Of Agility to move itself to the remotest places in a moment 4. Of Impassibility so as to be incapable of dying or suffering any more Being thus crowned with glory he might say to his Eternal Father with David Thou hast turned my mourning into joy unto me thou hast cut my sackcloth Ps. 29.12 and hast compassed me with gladness Apoc. 5.12 Consider 3. How the Eternal Father congratulateth with his son as also doe the Angels of Heaven and the Fathers of Limbus for the reunion of his body all crying out as with one voice The Lamb that was slain is worthy to receive power and divinity and wisdom and strength and honour and glory and benediction Joyne you with them and say This is the day which our Lord made Ps. 117.24 let us rejoyce and be glad therein Learn hence that the Tribulations of the Just are but short but their glory everlasting Rom. 8.17 and that if we suffer with Christ we shall also be glorifyed with him Of our Lords Apparitions and how he appeared first to his Blessed Mother Act. 1.3 COnsider 1. Christ three different ways manifested his Resurrection 1. By Saints who arose in their bodies and appeared to many 2. By Angels at the Sepulcher 3. In his own person shewing himself alive in many arguments for fourty days appearing c. After the same manner he is wont to manifest himself to his devout servants by spiritual men by their Angel Guardians and immediatly by himself He that loveth me c. I will love him Jo. 14.11 and will manifest my self to him Love him therefore that he may manifest himself also to you 2 Cor. 1.7 Consider 2. Christ first of all appeared to his B. Mother according to the pious beliefe of the Church that she who had drunk most of the bitter chalice of his Passion should be the first in partaking the joy of his Resurrection As you are partakers of the Passions so shall you be of the consolation also She did most certainly believe and most ardently expect the hour of his Resurrection and said with David Arise my glory Ps. 56.9 arise psalter and harp and therefore she was not frustrated of her desire that you might learn both fervently to desire heavenly things and withall patiently to expect the time Habec 2.3 If he shall make tarriance expect him because coming he will come and he will not slack and will recompence his delay Consider 3. What joy possessed the Mothers heart when she beheld her son What holy embracings passed between them What was said or done on both sides Doubtless the Holy Fathers Adam Abraham Moyses David and others did congratulate with the Virgin and say Thou Daughter art blessed of our Lord for that by thee we have partaken the fruit of life Ecl. in Off. E. V. Do you likewise congratulate with her from your heart and say with the Church Rejoyce thou Queen of Heaven Alleluia because whom thou didst deserve to beare Alleluia Regina Coeli is risen againe as he said Alleluia Pray unto God for us Alleluia Angels appear to the Women at the Sepulcher Mar. 16.1 Jo. 20.1 ANd very early the first of the Sabboths they come to the monument Consider 1. The devotion of these three women 1. They brought Spices not sparing any cost to performe the last Obsequies of their love in annoyling the corps of their Lord. 2. For the same purpose they rise very early and when it was yet dark Learn to spare no labour nor cost in the service of God according to your ability and that as the wife man sayeth Sap. 16.28 We ought to prevent the Sun to blesse God and at the rising of the light to adore him See whether you be so early in the morning employed in the Divine Service Consider 2. And they said one to an other who shall role us back the stone from the dore of the monument Among their pious discourses in the way they were in care about removing the stone But no sooner were they come but they saw the stone roled back So we fancy to our selves many difficulties in the way of vertue and perfection which notwithstanding when we come to practise Allmighty God doth facilitate unto us and take away And entering into the monument they saw a young man sitting on the right hand God rewardeth the Womens devotion with the vision of an Angel And his countenance was as lightening and his garment as Snow Mat. 28.3 Who would not wish to dwell with such happy company Galat. 6.14 1 Cor. 2.2 Consider 3. Be not dismayed you seek Jesus of Nazareth that was crucified Among the titles of our Lord now in glory is also ranked that of being Crucified that you might learn with the Apostle not to glory saving in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ c. And even not to know any thing but Jesus Christ and him Crucified Think what joy the holy Women were in to hear that Christ was risen and how they went forth quickly out of the monument with feare and great joy Mat. 28.8 running to tell his Disciples Christ appeareth to Mary Magdalen Jo. 20.11 MAry stood at the Monument without weeping Consider the fervorous love of this pious Woman and Constancy in persevering still at the Sepulcher whereas the others returned back whereby she deserved to see our Lord before the rest for as S. Gregory upon this place saith Greg. hom 25. in Evang. The Vertue value or worth of a good work is perseverance Learn hence how to seek our Lord when by sin he is taken from you or when by desolation he withdraweth himself you must doe it with sighs teares and ardent love whereby you will come to find him whom your Soul loveth Cant. 3.4 Consider 2. Angels appear unto Mary and aske her Woman why weepest thou but
you with the flowers he delights you and so of the rest Wherefore say with S. Augustine As there is not any hour Lord Aug. in Soliloq c. 18. or moment of all my life wherein I do not enjoy your benefits so ought there not to be any moment wherein I have you not before my eyes by remembrance and love you not with my whole strength Ps 115.3 Consider 3. Other benefits of God appertaining particularly to the mind such as are good Education care of Parents and Superiours counsel and example of the Virtuous the endowments of Knowledge Arts and Sciences together with the conveniences of this life and that perhaps with little care or labour of your own which many others cannot get without sweat of brow and hazard oftentimes of soul Think therefore what you shall render to our Lord for all things that he hath rendered to you Pro. 23.26 He desires nothing but your self My Son saith he give me thy heartâ— Of the benefit of Redemption Part. 1. COnsider 1. That you may the better understand the greatness of this benefit ponder what a misery it is to live in Slavery under some cruel Tyrant where you are to endure perpetual imprisonment hunger and thirst stripes and other torments Think what the Children of Israel suffered in the bondage of Egypt and Captivity of Babylon and what you were like to suffer if you were condemned perpetually to the Galleys under the Turk and what you would give for your Ransome 2 Tim. 2.26 Consider 2. The Slavery of Sin is incomparably greater then all this which makes us Slaves of the Devil as the Apostle-speaketh and liable to the torments of Hell We were all under this slavery nor was there possible any humane means of escaping when behold the only begotten Son of God came down from heaven and took upon him to satisfie for our sins that so he might deliver us from so cursed a servitude Tit. 2.14 Who gave himself saith the Apostle for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity Ps 15.2 Consider 3. The cause of so great a mercy Christ did it not for any profit of his as if he had need of us Thou art my God saith David because thou needest not my goods Nor for any deserts of ours which then neither were nor could be any but out of his own meer goodness and mercy according to that of Isaie In his love Is 63.9 and in his indulgence he redeemed them and bare them and lifted them up all the daies of the world Who would not love so loving a Lord and give himself up wholly to him without whom he had been lost for ever Of the benefit of Redemption Part 2. Ps 129.7 COnsider 1. The manner wherewith Christ redeemed you from the said slavery With good reason David said With him is plenteous Redemption for he could by his absolute power have remitted all our sins without taking mans flesh upon him He might also have satisfied the rigour of Justice by the least action of his after his Incarnation but would suffer so much that where sin abounded Rom. 5.20 grace might more abound and that he might leave us example according to S. Peter 1 Pet. 2.21 that we may follow his steps Consider 2. More in particular what he suffered In the Manger in his Circumcision in his flight and in Egypt it self by hunger and thirst by cold and nakedness by much travelling and frequent dangers Lastly during the time of his Passion by his scourging at the Pillar by the crowning with Thorns and nailing on the Cross and all this he suffered for his Enemies that is for all sinners Who did ever suffer so much even for his friends Wherefore the Church on Easter Eve breaketh forth into those admirable notes O happy fault which deserved to have such In benedic Cerei and so greet a Redeemer Consider 3. What you ought to do in return and what to offer to such a Redeemer Ask your self that question with S. Bernard If I owe my whole self for being made Bern. de diligendo Deo what more shall I add for being repaired and repaired in such manner for I was not so easily repaired as first made Wherefore behave your self as a Bondslave of Christ as truly you are thank him for so great a favour and give your self wholly to his service Reflect often upon that saying of the Apostle 1 Cor. 6.20 You are bought with a great price glorifie and bear God in your body Of Holy Communion Consider Christ at the Advocate of our Soul Behold the Lord God my helper who is he that shall condemn me Is 50.9 1 Jo. 2.1 COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Gospel I go to him that sent me c. And it is expedient for you that I go Jo. 6.5.7 For our Lord went to his Eternal Father to plead for us and that he might be in that Supreme Consistory of Heaven our Patron Advocate Mediator or Intercessor according to that of S. John We have an Advocate with the Father Jesus Christ the Just And that of S. Paul 1 Tim. 2.5 There is one Mediator of God and men Man Christ Jesus Therefore it was truly expedient for us that he should go to his Father to intercede in our behalf being guilty of many crimes Apoc. 1.5 Consider 2. What a benefit it were to have for Proctor or Advocate in the Court of some worldly Prince the Kings only Son ready upon all occasions to defend you with his Father and to further and promote you what he could Such an one is Christ our most loving Lord who hath loved us and washed us from our sins in his blood most willing to help us who will all men to be saved And lastly 1 Tim. 2.4 most powerful to obtain what thing soever of his Father Luc. 10.22 All things are delivered to me of my Father Sap. 1.4 Consider 3. How much you are to wish for that hour wherein this Advocate of yours is to come into your Soul in the H. Eucharist for then you may confidently open unto him all your miseries and necessities that he may plead to his Father for officacious redress See therefore that the lodging of your heart be clean for he is wonderfully delighted with cleanliness and as the wise man saith Wisdome will not enter into a malicious Soul nor dwell in a body subject to sins Of the benefit of Adoption Part 1. 1 Jo. 3.1 COnsider 1. That of S. John See what manner of charity the Father hath given us that we should be named and be the Sons of God The Father of Mercies was not satisfied with redeeming us but would also adopt us to be his Children The benefit is the greater in regard of the meanness of the person and the Excellency of the Dignity to which he is raised For what more vile or base then Man What
more excellent then God Man as to his body is no better then dirt and dust a sack of dung and meat for worms As to his Soul he is the very sink of sin an Abyss of ignorance and Myrrour of Inconstancy Think how slender is his ability how little it is he knoweth what miseries he is subject unto so that Job said with reason What is man that thou magnifiest him Job 7.17 or why settest thou thy heart toward him Gen. 41.40 1 Reg. 9. Ps 77.70 Consider 2. On the other side what God is and how great is his Majesty Glory Riches Beauty Power c. and what a dignity it is to be his adoptive Son If it was esteemed a great and wonderful thing in Joseph the Patriarch to be taken out of prison and made Lord of Egypt in Saul from following of Asses to be annointed King and in David from following after the Ewes with young to be assumed to a Kingdome How much more is it to be admired that a lump of earth should be raised to dignity of being the Son of God and that the harbourer of worms should become the companion of Angels Ps 112.7 8 Consider 3. How much you owe to God for having so highly exalted you Raising up the needy from the earth and lifting up the poor out of the dung to place you with the Princes of his heavenly Court O unspeakable honour you deserve not the name of Gods servant Leo Serm. 1. de Nativit and you are made his Son Acknowledge therefore O Christian saith S. Leo your dignity and being made partaker of the Divine Nature do not by unworthy behaviour degenerate to your former baseness Of the benefit of Adoption Part 2. COnsider 1. The admirable effects of this benefit 1. It puts us under Gods special providence and protection so as to bring us up govern maintain and defend us as a loving Father doth his Children Whence David said Ps 102.13 As a father hath compassion of his children so hath our Lord compassion on them that fear him c. And by Isaie he promiseth yet more Why Is 49.15 can a woman forget her Infant that she will not have pity on the son of her womb And if she should forget yet will not I forget thee O what a security it is to be protected by such a Father If God stand for us who will be against us 2 Pet. 1.4 Consider 2. How by this adoption we are made partakers of the Divine Nature and in a manner Gods according to that of the Psalmist I said you are Gods and the sons of the highest all Ps 81. â— for it makes us partakers in some degree of Gods perfections and excellencies as of his Wisdome Fortitude Constancy Justice Charity and other Attributes which in him are by nature and are communicated to us as his children by grace Learn therefore greatly to esteem such a benefit that makes you like to God himself Rom. 8.17 Consider 3. How it makes us also Heirs of the Kingdome of Heaven according to that of the Apostle And if sons heirs also heirs truly of God and co-heirs of Christ O what a happiness Look therefore upon heaven as your own by inheritance Say with that Philosopher Corn. ad Rom. c. 1â— 14. I am born to greater things then to make my self a slave to my own flesh Direct your thoughts and cares thither where you are sure to inherit endless treasures contemn all mortal things and give your mind only to such as are truly great and everlasting and as a certain holy man was wont to say In Vita P. Balt Alvarez Do not degenerate from the high thoughts of the sons of God Of the benefit of Adoption Part 3. Deut. 32.6 COnsider the several Obligations we have by reason of this benefit The first is of loving tenderly and from our whole heart so loving a Father For if children of this world do naturally love their Parents of whom they only receive their corporal substance and earthly goods how much more are you bound to love God from whom all proceeds that is good and who hath possessed thee and made and created thee Exod. 20.12 The second Obligation is of honouring him as our Father that is reverencing him with exteriour worship and serving him what we can with all respect and duty Honour thy Father and thy Mother that thou mayst be long lived upon the earth And our Lord himself by Malachy saith And if I be the father Mal. 1.6 where is my honour Mat. 5.48 Ephes 5.1 The third Obligation is of imitating God as children do their Parents Therefore Christ said Be you perfect as also your heavenly father is perfect And S. Paul Be followers of God as most dear children You must therefore imitate his Sanctity and Immunity from sin his Charity Mercy Justice and other Virtues Lev. 11.45 You shall be holy saith our Lord because I am holy Lev. 19.3 The fourth Obligation is of fearing ever to offend our Father according to that of Leviticus Let every one fear his Father and Mother And if children of this world fear to offend their Parents that they may not be disinherited by them how much more ought we to fear God Take heed that it be not ever objected to you Is 1.2 I have brought up children and exalted them but they have despised me You will despise him if you prefer your own will and desires before his Counsels and Commands Of the benefit of the H. Sacraments Is 12.3 COnsider 1. The wonderful care your Heavenly Father hath of you for to conserve you in the grace of his Adoption he hath provided you with many means for which you owe thanks and gratitude the chief of them are the seven Sacraments which as so many Fountains he would have to flow with several gifts of Grace in all abundance according to the diversity of our necessities so as to make good that of the Prophet You shall draw waters in joy out of the Saviours Fountains Ps 83.5 Consider 2. The infinite Wisdome of God in most fitly ordaining each Sacrament for that man might be born into a spiritual life he instituted Baptisme to grow up and be strengthened in the same Confirmation to be nourished Holy Eucharist That he might have a remedy and certain cure against his spiritual diseases Penance That he might be armed for his last Combat Extreme Unction Lastly for the right discharging of several states and duties in his Church he instituted H. Order and Matrimony Truly blessed are they that dwell in thy house O Lord who doest so abundantly provide for them that fear thee Is 55.1 Consider 3. These Fountains of Grace 1. Are open to all none are excluded though never so poor Whence the Prophet cryeth out All ye that thirst come to the waters and you that have no silver make hast buy and eat 2. They are
ever flowing without cessation like that Womans Oyl in the fourth of the Kings which never failed to run 4 Reg. 4. so long as there were any empty Vessels 3. They do infallibly work their effect by force of that virtue which they receive by the Divine Institution unless we put an impediment 4. They are placed in obvious things and easie to be had for our more certain use and benefit Be thankful to God for so great a liberality and endeavour to come ever worthily unto them Of the benefit of the Custody of Angels Ps 90.11 COnsider 1. What David said He hath given his Angels charge of thee that they keep thee in all thy ways Our heavenly Father not content to make us his Sons would also provide us as Princes do their children with Tutors and Guardians This charge he committed to the Angels themselves who should illuminate govern and protect us Heb. 1.14 for they are all ministring spirits saith the Apostle seat to ministen for them which shall receive the inheritance of salvation Eze. 28.12 Consider 2. To whom and of whom he hath committed this charge To the Angels who are most Noble Creatures pure Spirits immortal by nature full of wisdome and perfect of beauty more powerful and strong then whole Armies of men adorned with all manner of grace and glory and ever enjoying the Vision of God To these then he hath committed thee who art but a silly worm and no better then dirt and ashes Ps 90.12 that they should bear thee in their hands lest perhaps thou knock thy foot against a stone O what a care and protection is this of the Angels what a favour Consider 3. How this eare of theirs ought to stir up in us as S. Bernard admonisheth Reverence Devotion Bern. in Ps 90. and Confidence in them Reverence in regard of their presence Devotion for their benevolence Confidence in their sure custodâ— If I should deliver myself to be thy servant said young Tobias to the Angel Raphael his Guardian I should not deserve thy providence Tob. 9.2 Reverence therefore your Angel-Guardian with affection and do not presume in his sight who is always present to do that which you would be ashamed of before man Observe him Exod. 23.21 22. and hear his voice c. saith our Lord and I will be Enemy to thine Enemies and will afflict them that afflict thee And mine Angel shall go before thee Of the benefit of the Patronage of Saints and chiefly of the Blessed Virgin Job 42.8 COnsider 1. Our heavenly Father hath not only provided us with Guardians but also Patrons and Advocates to wit the Blessed that reign with him in Heaven to the end that in regard he is also our Judge we might have those that would continually intercede for us and move him to mercy Go saith our Lord to my servant Job and offer Holocaust for your selves and my servant Job shall pray for you His face I will receive that the folly be not imputed to you 2 Machab. 15.14 Consider 2. With what care and love the Saints in Heaven perform this Office and with what benefit to us obtaining for us all manner of good as is evident by infinite Miracles and Revelations Of holy Jeremy it is said in the second of the Machaâ—ces This is a lover of his Brethren and of the people of Israel this is he that prayeth much for the people and for the whole City What confidence therefore may we justly put in the protection of such powerful Advocates If it be a thing of great account to have a powerful friend in some worldly Princes Court how much more to have one in the Court of Heaven Consider 3. How diligent you ought to be in the worship and Invocation of the Saints especially these of your Name and your Patrons that they may obtain of our Lord what you stand in need of But above all you must procure to be fervent in devotion and reverence to the B. Virgin who being Mother of all the living as the Fathers call her she exceeds all others S. Epiph. Serm. 78. both in love to us and in power with her Son Give God thanks therefore for so powerful an Advocate and recommend your self with all earnestness unto her Zach. Ep. Foro. l. 2. to 1. c. 7. for she denieth help to none that doth duely ask it and intercedes not for any in vain to her Son Of Holy Communion Incline thine car O Lord and hear me because I am needy and poor Ps 85.1 Consider Christ as a Liberal bestower of Gifts Eccli 24.26 COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Gospel Until now you have not asked any thing in my Name ask and you shall receive c. Jo. 16.24 Imagine your self on the one side as a poor naked beggar and wanting many things necessary for the maintenance of your spiritual life and Christ our Lord on the other infinitely rich infinitely liberal and desirous that all should partake of his plenty Hear his solemn proffer Ask and you shall receive Never did any Prince make so liberal a promise He longeth in a manner to be rid of his gifts Pass to me all ye that desire me and be filled of my Generations He is more ready to give then we to receive Consider 2. This bountiful Lord will come this day unto you in the Eucharist and if you be gracious in his sight will say unto you as Assuerus did to Esther What is thy Petition Esther Esther 7.2 that it may be given thee and what wilt thou have done although thou shalt ask the half part of my Kingdom thou shalt obtain See therefore what you stand most in need of and have ready your Petition and adorn your self as Esther did that you may gain his good will to you when he comes Jo. 9.31 Consider 3. The impediments which will render your prayers of no effect to the end you may take them away 1. Sinners God doth not hear that is as long as they persist in sin without repentance 2. Neither doth he hear those that ask vain and unprofitable things but sends them away with that check and rebuke You know not what you desire Mat. 20.22 3. Nor yet those that pray tepidly and coldly But because thou art lukewarm Apoc. 3.16 c. I will begin to vomit thee out of my mouth 4. And lastly he requireth constancy and perseverance in asking So to him that persevered knocking were given Loaves Luc. 11. Even for his importunity as many as he needed Luc. 11.8 Of the benefit of Prayer Part 1. Psa 140. â— COnsider the benefit of Prayer which the Church recommendeth particularly unto us these Rogation daies Consider therefore first the Dignity and Excellency of Prayer 1. It is an act of Religion and divine worship offered to God and accepted by him as Incense and Sacrifice according to that Let my prayer
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
distributeth his gifts and favours among his people according to that of the Apostle Ascending on high he led captivity captive Ephes 4.8 he gave gifts to men If. 60.13 Consider 2. This King of Glory will come this day to you though under the Cloud of the Eucharistical Species to the end that by the gifts of his grace he may dispose you to partake also of his glory The glory of Libanus shall come to thee c. to adorn the place of my sanctification and the place of my feet I will glorifie O what a favour and benefit is this What may you not hope for from so bountiful a Guest in this day of your solemnity Ps 23.7 Consider 3. How to receive worthily this King of Glory Lift up your gates ye Princes and be ye lifted up O Eternal Gates and the King of Glory shall enter in The gates of the Soul are our interiour powers Reason and Will by which there is a mutual intercourse between our Soul and enteriour objects they entring into her and she going forth to them Lift up therefore these gates on high raise them only to such things as are heavenly and everlasting and then the King of Glory will enter into you and make you partaker of his Glory Of our Lords Ascension Part 1. Mar. 16.14 COnsider 1. The fourty daies being expired which our Lord was pleased to spend in comforting and instructing the Apostles after his Resurrection last he appeared to those cleven as they sat at the Table and having strengthened their faith which wavered yet in some of them he leads them forth to Mount Olivet that where he had began his Passion by his Bloody Sweat there he might also begin his Triumph See with what tenderness of love he doth all this and withall learn hence that the way to glory is by suffering Luc. 24.49 Consider 2. These words of Christ to his Disciples But you tarry in the City till you be endowed with power from high If our Lord would not have his Apostles too forward in preaching but quietly and in prayer to expect power and virtue from Heaven how fitting is it that others who have not been trained up in Christs School as they were should first prepare themselves in private and holy cetiredness and long prayer for preaching and other Apostolical Functions Ps 103.3 Consider 3. After they were all come to the Mount our Lord being now to depart lifting up both his hands to signifie the fulness of his blessing he blessed them then raising himself up he ascended by degrees till he was out of their sight Think how the Disciples rejoyced to behold the glory of their Lord Making the Cloud to ascend on and walking upon the wings of winds Do you also ascend in spirit with him Ps 83.6 Dispose ascensions in your heart as the Prophet speaketh making continual progress from one virtue to another till you arrive to the height of perfection Of our Lords Ascension Part 2. Ephes 4.8 COnsider 1. Our Lord being out of the sight of his Disciples entereth into Heaven in a triumphant manner He was accompanied with an infinite multitude of Angels who came forth to meet him there followed a numerous Train of the Holy Fathers whom he had redeemed out of captivity according to that Ascending on high he led captivity captive Neither was there wanting solemn and publick Jubily God is ascended in Jubilation Psa 46.6 and our Lord in the voice of Trumpet The Angels inviting one the other in those terms Sing to our Lord Ps 67.33 34. sing ye to God that mounteth upon the Heaven of Heaven to the East And the like Consider 2. Christ being come to the Throne of his Eternal Father presents him with the holy company of Saints as spoils taken from the Infernal Enemy he gives him account of the work he had accomplished Jo. 17.4 5 6. saying I have glorified thee upon Earth I have consummated the work which thou gavest me to do And now glorifie thou me O Father with thy self c. I have manifested thy Name to men c. The Father welcometh his Sons return with unspeakable expressions of love and placeth him on his right hand fulfilling that of the Psalm Our Lord said to my Lord Ps 109.1 sit on my right hand c. Apoc. 5.12 Consider 3. The Jubily which was at that time in Heaven of the Holy Fathers for the happiness they were arrived to of the Angels both for the company of the Saints and for the filling up of the places which had been so long empty Lastly of them all for the humanity of Christ our Lord which they saw glorified according to its deserts Then did they likewise break forth into those words of the Apocalyps The Lamb that was slain is worthy to receive power and dignity and wisdom and strength and honour and glory and benediction Joyn your lauds and praises with theirs rejoyce for having such an Advocate with your Father and fix your thoughts there whither your Head and best part of you is already gone Of Holy Communion Our Lord will give Grace and Glory He will not deprive them of good things that walk in Innocency Ps 83.12 13. Consider Christ as a Pledge of Future Glory COnsider 1. How great is the Glory of God and of all the Blessed in Heaven how excellent a place what noble Citizens and what happy concord and union among that blessed company and the like Our most merciful Lord promiseth us in due time the fellowship of this glory and in the mean while gives us for a pawn or pledge his most precious Body and Blood Wherefore the Church cryeth out O sacred Banquet Brev. Rom wherein Christ is received c. and a pledge of future glory is given us Deut. 4.7 Consider 2. What a great matter you would think it if some Prince should promise you a Kingdome after the term of some few years and in the mean time should give you his only Son for security Truly there is no other Nation so great that hath Gods approaching unto them as our God is present to us He is present with us here in nourishment that he may afterwards be wholly ours in reward 2 Cor. 1.22 Consider 3. This divine pledge doth not only serve as an assurance but doth even in this life produce in some sort the effects of Glory if it be not hindered For 1. It brings with it the lustre of Habitual Grace then the which nothing is more glorious in the sight of God 2. It rendereth the Soul impassible that is not subject to be moved or disturbed by any worldly adversity 3. It gives us a spiritual agility promptly and readily to obey the Commands of God 4. It assords us also a certain subtility to go through and overcome what difficulties soever Prepare your self therefore worthily to receive it and bless the infinite mercy of God who
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
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
2. Christ compareth the Apostles joy for his Resurrection after their sorrow for his Passion the same is of the happiness of the next life after the labours of this to the joy of a Woman after the travel of Childbirth because both these griefs are bitter both short both full of danger and are afterwards both turned into joy suitable to their sorrows and as there so here the cause of pain is also cause of comfort A woman when she travelleth hath sorrow because her hour is come but when she hath brought forth the child now she remembreth not the anguish for joy that a man is born into the world Reflect upon each particular 2 Cor. 4.17 Consider 3. What followeth I will see you again and your heart shall rejoyce and your joy no man shall take from you Thus our tribulation which at present is momentary and light worketh above measure exceedingly an eternal weight of glory in us On the contrary the Worldlings for the short and momentary delight which they enjoyed in this life are punished with everlasting torments in the next whence Job said of them They lead their lives in wealth Job 21.13 and jollity and in a moment they go down to Hell Imprint in your memory those words of Abraham to the Rich Glutton Remember that thou didst receive good things in thy life time Luc. 16.25 and Lazarus likewise evil but now he is comforted and thou tormented 4. Sunday after Easter Christ treateth of his going and sending the Holy Ghost Jo. 16.5 page 250. Consider 1. I go to him that sent me c. It is expedient for you that I go It was also expedient for him so to take possession of his Glory but unmindful of his own he is concerned for our good O that you were so for his honour If I go not the Paraclet shall not come to you but if I go I will send him to you The love which the Apostles are to Christ was mixed with some humane affection wherefore to refine this and make it purely spiritual it was necessary he should substract himself from them If the affection to Christs Sacred Humanity was a hinderance to the receiving of the Divine Spirit how much more the affection to other flesh and blood though in spiritual and holy persons Consider 2. And when he is come he shall argue the world of sin and of justice and of judgment The Holy Ghost doth argue the world of sin saith S. Bernard because it dissembles of justice Bern. Ser. 12. which it doth not rightly order while it attributes the same to man not to God of judgment which it usurps while it judgeth rashly not only of it self but of others too Think what the Divine Spirit may argue you of bring your actions to light and be not of the number of those that do ill Jo. 3.20 and come not to the light that their works may not be controuled know that if we did judge our selves 1 Cor. 11.31 we should not be judged Consider 3. When he the spirit of truth cometh he shall teach you all truth This is a promise made to the Church He shall not speak of himself that is not only of himself but also from the Father and the Son from whom he proceedeth and from whom he is sent but what things soever he shall hear from them he shall speak Think how well grounded the Faith is which you have from the Church the Church from the Divine Spirit the Spirit from Christ Christ from the Eternal Father He shall glorifie me because he shall receive of mine and shall shew to you confirming to them the Doctrine of Christ perfecting their Understanding opening the sense of Scriptures c. Rejoyce and be grateful for so great benefits bestowed upon the Church for your good 5. Sunday after Easter Christ recommendeth Prayer to his Disciples Jo. 16.23 page 258 259 260 261 262. Ascension day Of the Mystery Marc. 16.14 page 263 264 265 266. Sunday in the Octave Of the H. Ghost and of the Apostles Persecutions Jo. 15.26 27. and 16.1 c. page 266. 2 Cor. 1.4 Consider 1. When the Paraclet cometh whom I will send from the Father the spirit of truth which proceedeth from the Father he shall give testimony of me Christ to raise in his Disciples a desire and love of the Divine Spirit doth speak much of him at his departure and here he acquaints them with two chief properties 1. That he is a Paraclet that is Comforter for he it is that comforteth us in all our tribulvtion and the Church calleth him The bâ—st Comforter Seq in Missa de Spir. S. and the sweet Guest of our Soul being indeed a sweet refreshment tempering the heats of our concupiscences and passions Rest and ease to us in our labours solace and comfort in our tears and afflictions Invite this Divine Comforter to your heart and refuse all other comfort and satisfaction from creatures Jo. 14.6 Consider 2. The other property of being the spirit of truth 1. For that he proceeds from the Son who is the Wisdom of his Father the Way the Truth and the Life 2. Because he is sent to manifest the truth of Christs Doctrine of his being the true Messias Son of God and Saviour of the World 3. For that he giveth testimony of the New Testament which is of Truth it self whereof the Old Testament was but a shadow 4. For that he is the Author of all truth And you shall give testimony Ponder here the infinite Dignity of the Apostles and of their Successors the Priests of Gods Church in that they are joyned in testimony of Christs Deity and of all the other Mysteries of Faith even with the Holy Ghost himself Admire reverence and defend this Divine Authority of the Church Consider 3. Christ forewarns his Disciples of their persecutions 1. That they be not scandalized troubled or disheartened when they happen 2. That they should know what they were to trust to and what they were called for and that they might not think them to fall out by chance c. 3. That they might prepare and arm themselves against them with Patience and Fortitude 4. That when the hour shall come they might have the comfort to remember that he told them Out of the Synagogues thâ—y will cast you And every one which killeth you shall think that he doth service to God Think whether you would be content to be an Outcast contemned and despised by men and even to suffer death for Christ Whitsunday Of the Mystery Gospel Jo. 14.23 page 273. c. to page 279. Trinity Sunday Christ Commissioneth his Disciples to Baptize in the Name of the B. Trinity Mat. 28.18 page 280 281 282 283. which are of the Mystery Consider 1. All power is given to me in Heaven and Earth Christ had this Power 1. As God from all Eternity 2. As Man in the very instant of his Incarnation by right of the Hypostatical Union 3. Through the Merit
of his Passion and Death as to the perfect use and exercise of it Hence it followeth that we have a Triple Obligation of serving him 1. As our God by his Deity 2. As the Sovereign Lord and Head of all Mankind by his Incarnation 3. As our Saviour and Redeemer by his Death and Passion He hath exercised his Power to the full for your good See that you fulfill your duty in serving him Consider 2. Going therefore teach ye all Nations baptizing them in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost By virtue of his Divine Power he doth Authorize and Commission his Disciples 1. To go and teach what he had taught them 2. To Baptize them in the Name of the B. Trinity that by the benefit of Baptism they might obtain Divine Faith Remission of their sins Grace and Everlasting Glory 3. To deliver unto them Christs new Law Precepts and Councels teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you Consider 3. And behold I am with you all daies even to the consummation of the world Christ is with us 1. As God by his Immensity 2. As God and Man by his Presence in the H. Eucharist 3. By Habitual and Actual Grace enabling us to act Supernaturally in order to our End 4. By a special Providence governing and directing every one towards the attaining to the perfection of their Vocation 5. After a special manner he is with the whole Church and principle Members thereof assisting them with his Divine Wisdom and Veracity in their Councels and Definitions Interpretation of Scriptures and Government and arming them with his Omnipotent Power against Persecutions Heresie and Infidelity so that the Gates of Hell shall not be able to prevail against them Be grateful for these benefits and endeavour to be always present with him in mind and affection On the same day as being the 1. Sunday after Pentecost the Gospel is chiefly of Mercy Luc. 6.36 for which see page 344. Corpus Christi day Of the Mystery Jo. 6.55 page 284 285 286 287. Sunday in the Octave of Corp. Chr. Of the great Supper Luc. 14.16 page 288. c. to the page 296. see page 439 440. 3. Sunday after Pentecost Of the lost sheep Luc. 15.1 page 296. see page 459. 4. Sunday after Pentecost Christ teacheth c. out of Peters Ship Luc. 5.1 page 304. Consider 1. The multitudes pressing our Lord went up into Peters Ship and that being brought back a little from the Land sitting be taught the multitudes from the ship Ponder with what fervour the people did run to hear the Word of God be ashamed of your own dulness herein and eagerness of hearing Toys News and Reports of the World Christ teacheth from Peters Boat from which we are all to take the Word of God our Faith and the hopes of our Salvation out of which there is none Observe how the Boat was brought from the Land to teach us that the Preachers Life and Doctrine must not be worldly but Coelestial Consider 2. As he ceased to speak he said to Simon Launch forth into the deep and let loose your Nets to make a draught It is Christ that moves our heart in Sermons but 't is our part to co-operate to launch forth into the deep by proceeding always forwards and raising our intentions and desires to heavenly things and to loose our Nets by a forwardness and endeavour of profiting upon all occasions Peter answered Labouring all night we have taken nothing Such are the fruits of worldly cares and labours and in the Night of Sin nothing is gained in order to Eternal Life We must therefore loose our Nets in Christs Name and upon his Word by a sincere intention of serving and obeying him Consider 3. And when they had done this they inclosed a very great multitude of Fishes and their Net was broken Whereupon Peter fell down at Jesus kaâ—eâ— saving Go forth from me for I am a sinful man Ponder here 1. Peter lendeth Christ his empty Boat and receives it full of Fish and is well enough contented to have his Net broken in so profitable a service So ought we in temporal losses that are accompanied with great spiritual gains 2. Peter out of Humility falleth upon his knees and is made the Fisher of men From this time thou shalt be taking men 3. Upon the same account he willeth Christ to go from him and thereby came the nearer unto him for leaving all things they followed him Ponder each particular and gather something for your own profit 5. Sunday after Pentecost Of the observance of the Law Mat. 5.21 page 312. Consider 1. Valesâ— your Justice abound more then that of the Scribes and Pharisees you shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven The Pharisees did often fast they prayed much in the Temple and in the Streets they gave the Tythes of what they had they gave God thanks for his benefits they carried the Law about them in the Hem of their Garments c. Do you do as much Yet all this was nothing but an outward shew of Virtue and only ceremonious observances of their own The Justice of a Christian must be internal and real consisting in a pure intention of Gods Honour in all things in the exercise of Christian Virtue chiefly of Charity Patience Humility c. in subduing our Passions evil Inclinations and Affections and the like Consider 2. It was said to them of old thou shalt not kill c. But I say to you that whosoever is angry with his Brother shall be in danger of judgment c. Ponder the Excellency of the New Law above the Old 1. That which was given to a dull and earthly people prohibited only gross things this forbiddeth even little imperfections 2. That went no further then the outward appearance this passeth to the interiour affections of the mind 3. That proposed no other then temporal reward this everlasting Think what perfection God requireth of you according to your Calling and be su e you come not behind the Pharisees upon peril of your Salvation 1 Cor. 10.17 Consider 3. And imprint in your heart and memory those words of Christ If thou offer thy gift at the Altar and there thou remember that thy Brother hath ought against thee leave there thy Offering before the Altar and go first to be reconciled to thy Brother Fraternal Charity is so necessary that no Sacrifice nor Divine Worship can be acceptable to God without it and if this in the Old Law how much more in the New and in the Sacrifice of Mass and Communion of the H. Eucharist which is the Sacrament of Union for we are one body all that participate of one bread Observe how God vouchsafeth to accept of our poor duties as offerings and gifts whereas they are indeed his own gifts and bringing no good to him from us 6. Sunday after Pentecost Of the seven Loaves Marc. 8.1 page 320. Consider 1.
and to escape Purgatory These are Receiving the Sacraments offering the Divine Sacrifice Indulgences Fasting Alms Prayers Tears chastising the body patient suffering of hunger and thirst sicknesse and the like God is content with a little in this life and is soon appeased by means of our poor services but in the other life he will severely exact the whole debt of punishment even to the last farthing Wherefore while you have time Mat. 5.27 Eccli 14.14 do good Be not defrauded of thy good day as Ecclesiasticus admonisheth and let not a little portion of a good gift overpass thee Mat. 5.7 Consider 3. Among other means one of the most efficacious to escape or at least to mitigate our pains in Purgatory is to pray much for the dead while we live for our merciful Lord permitteth that afterwards we receive the same measure that we used to others here And The merciful as he saith himself shall obtain mercy Morn Ent. Behold our Lord is come in his holy thousands to do judgement Jude 14. Luc. 21.25 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as Judge COnsider 1. What is read this day in the Gospel that Christ is to be the Universal Judge of all men whose judgement we ought greatly to stand in fear of 1. By reason of his Supream Authority from whom none can appeal 2. For the rigour of his Justice which no entreaties nor bribes will be able to corrupt 3. For his infinite Wisdom from which nothing can be concealed 4. For that he will be not only Judge but also the plaintiff or party offended Consider 2. What a favour it would be if the Judge himself should in a friendly manner come to some Criminal in prison and teach him a way how he may escape and come off with security of life in his Trial. The same will Christ do to you this day Wherefore receive him at his coming with great love and gratitude and now while you may endeavour by earnest prayers to gain him against that dreadful day when there will be no more place for prayers Ps 142.2 Consider 3. Hence you must have a great care that there be nothing in your Soul that may displease the eyes of your Judge when he cometh He will search the inmost corners of your heart Cleanse therefore diligently all things against his coming Say humbly with the Prophet Enter not into judgement with thy servant O Lord But rather in the bowels of thy mercy visit us now O Orient arising from high Eccl. in Off. Boeth apud S. Tho. Opusc de Sacr. c. 2. c. Wherefore Boethius saith well in these words We have a great necessity of living well seeing we do all things before the eyes of the Judge that seeth all Think well on this and Before judgement prepare thee Justice Of imitating the Life of Christ our Lord. 1. Part. COnsider 1. For two reasons Christ our Lord came from the bosome of his eternal Father into the World as the holy Fathers every where do teach 1. To redeem us from sin 2. To give us example of living by his own manner of life His life therefore ought to be the square pattern and mirrour of ours to the end that squaring our actions conformably to his we may come by his steps to arrive at last also to his glory Eccli 23.38 Consider 2. How glorious a thing it is to follow such an example It is great glory saith Ecclesiasticus to follow our Lord. By following of men whosoever they are you may erre because they are men apt both to be deceived themselves and to deceive others By following Christ you cannot misse because he is the way you cannot be deceived because he is truth you cannot perish because he is life The Way in Example Bern. Ser. 2. de Ascen saith St. Bernard Truth in Promise Life in Reward Lastly he commandeth nothing which he doth not first do himself So that he may say with Gedeon What you shall see me do Jud. 7.17 do ye 1 Cor. 3.19 Consider 3. How foolishly you have hitherto done in directing your actions by any other rule then the life of Christ All other rules are crooked and naught and The wisdom of this world according to which perchance you govern your self is foolishness with God Ask pardon for this folly and beseech our Lord to accept of you and admit you into the number of his followers Of imitating the Life of Christ 2. Part. Tit. 1.16 COnsider 1. The followers of Christ are of three different sorts Some by name onely and from the teeth outwards they say they are Christians and know Christ But in their works they deny him They defile themselves with continual sins and in their works crucifie Christ anew These are but equivocally termed Christians for indeed they follow not Christ but the Devil Think how often you have been such Repent and take heed for the future Mat. 19.21 Consider 2. Others there are who indeed follow Christ but afar off as St. Peter did when Christ was taken who perhaps for that cause as some observe came to fall and deny his Master for any example or pattern that it may have influence must be duly applied and at a right distance So many follow Christ but coldly They purpose to keep the Commandments but care not to extend themselves with the Apostle to things of greater perfection When it is said to such as these Go sell the things that thou hast c. and come follow me They go away sad like the young man in the Gospel See whether you be one of these 2 Cor. 6.8 Phil. 3.8 Consider 3. Others finally there are who with a generous resolution strive to follow Christ even to the Crosse By honour and dishonour by infamy and good fame and with the Apostle do esteem all things as dung that they may gain Christ Lastly they endeavour to conform themselves in all things to the model of his life See among whom you chuse to rank your self and know that in what proportion you are like unto Christ in this life you will also be hereafter in glory Of the divine Decree concerning Christs Incarnation 1. Part. COnsider 1. The state which the whole world was in Part of the Angels had fallen All mankind also had sinned The wicked Angels leaving the Blessed in Heaven were cast into Hell Mankind lived in banishment out of Paradise shut out of Heaven made slave of the Devil and enemy to God and lay wallowing from one sin into another to be cast at length headlong into Hell fire neither did there appear any means possible of appeasing the Divine Justice being no pure creature could make is any satifaction Ps 39.7 8. Contemplate 2. The three divine Persons in Heaven out of commiseration consulting of a remedy See how the Second Person being there could not otherwise any satisfaction be made to the divine Justice freely offered himself to his Eternal Father
abnegation of your self say at least hereafter 1 Reg. 3.10 with Samuel Speak Lord for thy servant â—eareth Consider 3. Our Lord the Vision being passed forbad his Disciples to divulge it to any one Tell the Vision to no body Mat. sup till the Son of Man be risen from the dead to give us example of Humility for that extraordinary Visions and favours of God ought to be kept secret and not to be discovered unless some great profit or necessity require it and even then not as our own goods but as gifts of God whereof we shall be demanded an account Of the Petition of the Sons of Zebedee Mat. 20. Mat. 10. Part 1. Mat. 20.20 CConsider 1. Then came to him the Mother of the Sons of Zebedee c. The Mother cometh to petition for her Sons what they themselves pretended for but they interpose their Mothers prayers as a Cloak to cover their own ambition So men oftentimes make use of others desires and commands to cloak their own pretences Observe moreover how the Mother cometh in an humble and suppliant manner and adoring presents her Petition Because Ambition as S. Ambrose witnesseth first serveth Ambr. inâ— Luc. c. 4. that it may afterwards domineer it stoopeth to mean Offices to be served with honour Is 14.13 Consider 2. Her Petition Say that these my two Sons may sit one at thy right hand and one at thy left hand in thy Kingdom 'T is natural to all to be ambitious of the first place this cast the Angels out of Heaven I will ascend into Heaven above the Stars of God will I exalt my Throne c. The same thrust man out of Paradise You shall be as Gods Gen. 3.5 The same assaileth also the Apostles See whether it hath as yet got any hold of you How much safer is it to follow the counsel and example of Christ and to sit in the lowest place 2 Cor. 1. â— Consider 3. Christs answer You know not what you desire They who sue for honours and vanities of this world truly know not what they desire It followeth Can you drink of the Cup that I shall drink of to wit the bitter Cup of Sorrow and Affliction intimating thereby that the glory of Heaven shall be measured to them proportionably to the draught which they shall take of this Cup so that the more one shall drink of this the nearer he shall be seated to Christ Wherefore encourage your self to drink manfully of this Cup to the very bottom for that as the Apostle saith as you are partakers of the Passions so shall you be of the Consolation also Of the Petition of the Sons of Zebedee Mat. 20.22 c. Part 2. Phil. 4.13 COnsider 1. The Apostles readiness to drink the Chalice proposed to them They say to him we can The like alacrity may proceed from a different spirit 1. From Ambition refusing no labours that they may come to what they aim at 2. Out of a rash Fervour not knowing what they undertake as War is sweet to them that have had no experience of it 3. From Divine Grace according to that I can all things in him that strengtheneth me Be ashamed of your self for being so slack and that you have not the courage to undertake that for the Kingdom of Heaven which others do without fear or wit for some vain honour You often answer I cannot whereas not ability but will and resolution is wanting Act. 10.35 Mat. 16.27 Consider 2. Christ seeing this readiness in them answered My Cup indeed you shall drink of but to sit at my right hand and left is not mine to give you but to whom it is prepared of my Father Not disswading them from using their endeavour to deserve the Chief Seats but letting them understand that the Gifts of Glory are not distributed out of favour or upon account of some Temporal Relation or respect but in reward only to their Merits for that God is not an accepter of persons but will render to every one according to his works Consider 3. The difference there is between worldly Precedency and that which is proper to the School of Christ which our Lord explicated upon this occasion The Princes of Gentiles over-rule them c. It shall not be so among you but whosoever will be the greater among you let him be your minister c. which he confirmeth with his own example who came not to be ministred unto but to minister Let your ambition therefore be for the lowest place in all occasions if you desire to be Christs Disciple Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven Mat. 18. Mar. 9. Luc. 9. Mat. 18.1 Mar. 9.34 COnsider 1. At that hour the Disciples came to Jesus saying Who thinkest thou is the greater in the Kingdom of Heaven c. There had a little before been a contention among them which of them should be the greater and each one would have the first place in Heaven for himself Thus Ambition insinuates its self even into spiritual things and persons therefore they ask who is the greater c. And perhaps some one might think that Rich and Principal men in this world were to be preferred before others also in Heaven Consider 2. Jesus calling unto him a little child c. said Vnless you be converted Mat. sup and become as little children you shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child he is the greater in the Kingdom of Heaven Think what it is to become a little one Be not children in sense saith the Apostle but in malice be children A child preferreth himself before none arrogates nothing to himself carrieth himself lovingly to all and finally lets himself be ruled and governed by his Parents Behave your self therefore after the same manner if you desire to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven Narrow is the gate and strait is the way that leadeth to life Mat. 7.14 and therefore none but they that are little and low by Humility can enter through it Consider 3. The grievousness of the offence which they commit that give scandal to Christs little ones that is are occasion of their spiritual ruine either by word or example 'T is expedient for him Mat. 18.6 that a Milstone be hanged about his neck and that he be drowned in the depth of the Sea Take heed therefore lest any one be induced to evil by your example Ezec. 3.18 that his bloud may not be required at your hands Of Holy Communion The Lord thy God thou shalt adore and him only shalt thou serve Deut. 6.13 Is 45.18 Ezec. 18.4 Consider Christ as your Lord. COnsider 1. What is read this day in the Gospel No man can serve two Masters Mat. 6.24 God is your only true and lawful Lord I the Lord and there is none other All Souls are mine as the Soul of the Father so
also the Soul of the Son is mine No Lord is so perfectly Master of any thing as God is of you for he hath an absolute Dominion over you 1. By the Title of Creation 2. Of Perpetual Conservation 3. Of Purchase having bought you 4. Of your own voluntary subjection in Baptisme Rejoyce that you have so great and powerful a Lord S. Ambr. in 1 Tim. 1. for as S. Ambrose saith it is an honour to be servant to some great Lord. Deut. 32.18 Consider 2. The Dominion over any thing is nothing else but a right to dispose of it at ones pleasure Think therefore how often you have violated this right that God hath in you not permitting him to dispose of you at his pleasure and what is worse you have been rebellious against him by sin O how often have you sold your self to the Devil his Capital Enemy God that begat thee thou hast forsaken and hast forgotten our Lord thy Creator Think well of this and be confounded Consider 3. This your Lord will come to you to day in the Eucharist to take a fuller possession of you as his own for although he stands not in any need of you yet he will have you wholly to himself The Lord thy God shalt thou adore Mat. 4.10 Deut. sup and him only shalt thou serve Wherefore renounce all other Leagues with the Flesh the World and the Devil which are against him Present him anew wich the keys of your heart ask him pardon of your former disloyalty and let him freely dispose of you in all things Lastly let your care hereafter be to please him alone in whatsoever you do for no man can serve two Masters Of Conversions and Cures wrought by Christ Of the Conversion of S. Mary Magdalen Part 1. Luc. 7.37 COnsider 1. And behold a woman that was in the City a sinner c. A sinner that is by dishonesty although it be not specified because the Apostle would not have it named by us Ephes 5.3 so unbeseeming is the very name much more the thing is self in them that pretend Virtue and Sanctity 'T is probable she heard our Lord preach and being touched to the heart with repentance not expecting opportunity of time or place S. Aug. lib. 50. Homil. 13. Eccli 5.8 rushed in as S. Augustine affirmeth to the banquet Wherefore do you likewise after sin flack not to be converted to our Lord and defer not from day to day Consider 2. The fervour of her Penance wherein is discovered unto us an admirable Faith in Christ his Divinity and Power of forgiving sins 2. Humility not caring to suffer confusion before men she stood behind beside our Lords feet as deeming her self unworthy of his sight Luc. sup 3. The greatness of her love expressing extraordinary signs of grief with tears kissing and anealing his Sacred Feet 4. Contempt of worldly things making her precious oyntments and her very hair and eyes instruments of Penance which before had been of Vanity that she might punish her self in the same things wherein she had formerly sinned Ps 61.10 Consider 3. The Pharisees rash judgment in reproving Christ for letting himself be touched by a sinful woman whence you may learn that there is no action so holy that is not liable to wrong censures Most true it is the children of men are lyars in their balances that is in their judgments that you may accustom your self not to regard them when they are opposite to true Piety and Devotion Of S. Mary Magdalens Conversion Luc. 7. Part 2. Luc. 7.41 COnsider 1. Christs Wisdom in reproving the Pharisee his Entertainer which he did with all modesty and sweetness as is fitting to do to persons of Authority for avoiding offence He proposeth a Parable of two Debtors to one Creditor God is the Creditor all we are Debtors some more some less neither have we any means to make satisfaction but by the Merits of Christ The greater therefore the Debt is that is forgiven us the greater obligation we have of love and gratitude See how great your Debt is and consequently what obligation you have Consider 2. Doest thou see this woman Ibid. v. 44. He confounds the Pharisees and withall our pride by the example of a sinful woman for she acknowledging the favour done her in remitting her great Debt shewed more love then those who little regarding their lesser debts were cold in affection Ask your self often that question Do you see this woman and be ashamed for being so far behind her in your love to God and in works of Penance who perhaps have received greater favours at his hands Take heed you be not one of those of whom Christ speaketh in those words Publicans and whores shall go before you in the Kingdom of God Mat. 21.31 Ps 31.5 Consider 3. Magdalens Discharge Thy sins are forgiven thee O with what joy must she needs be filled when she heard those comfortable words Ponder the efficacy of Contrition which in a moment blotteth our all the sins of ones former life Stir your self up to the like as often as you go to the Sacrament of Confession and as you have followed Magdalen in sin so follow her likewise in Penance Confess against thy self thine injustice to our Lord and he will forgive the impiety of thy sin Of the Samaritan Womans Conversion Jo. 4.6 c. Part 1. Sap. 6.14 COnsider 1. Jesus therefore wearied of his journey sate so upon the Fountain for he travelled on foot like a good Shepherd seeking his loft sheep and among other corporal miseries admitted also weariness and thirst But see with what patience he endured them both He sat therefore upon the Fountain well knowing what would follow thereby not so much taking rest as occasion of befitting others for Wisdom preventeth them that covet her that she may first shew her self unto them O how often doth she prevent you and you mind it not Consider 2. There coming a certain Woman and a sinner to draw water Christ preventeth her saying Gave me to drink She refuseth and withall accuseth him How doest thou being a Jew ask of me to drink c. So many reject Christ while he moves them interiourly and seeks to be entertained and refreshed with their virtues our Lord did not therefore desist from helping this sinner but offered her living water to drink of Thou perhaps wouldest have asked of him and he would have given thee living water Consider 3. The Excellency of this Water that is of Divine Grace which our Lord promiseth to his faithful He that shall drink of the water that I will give him shall not thirst for ever c. 1. Therefore it quencheth our thirst and that for ever 2. It doth so fill the Soul that it lets it not thirst after any other water to wit of earthly comforts 3. It becometh a Fountain of all good to the Soul ever flowing and giving