these affections bring your Lord into the Closet of your heart Ps 142.2 saying with the Psalmist Enter not into iudgment with thy servant but rather according to the multitude of thy commiserations have respect to me Ps 68.17 Of our Lords Sermon on the Mount Mat. 5. Part 1. Mat. 5.1 COnsider 1. Seeing the multitudes he went up into a Mountain c. and opening his mouth he taught them c. Ponder 1. The place of this famous Sermon which is a high Mountain 2. The Preachers Person which is the increated Wisdom of God 3. His Chair or Pulpit for he taught them upon the bare ground 4. His Auditors which were his Disciples and other unlearned and simple people 5. The subject of his discourse which was of true felicity Go you up in spirit with the people and sitting at the feet of so great a Master give attentive eare to what he saith 1 Reg. 3.10 Say with Samuel Speak Lord for thy servant heareth Consider 2. Christ in this his Sermon performed not only the Office of a Teacher but also of a Lawgiver declaring the Antient Law and proclaiming the New It was said to them of old Thou shalt not kill c. But I say to you Mat. sup v. 22. that whosoever is angry with his Brother shall be in danger of judgment c. and the like Reverence therefore this your Lawgiver and give him thanks for his wholesome precepts Beseech him to print his holy Law in the fleshly Tables of your heart say with David Set me a Law O Lord the way of thy Justifications Ps 118.33 and I will seek after it always Colos 2.3 Is 9.6 Consider 3. He performed also the part of a Councellour exhorting them to points of the greatest perfection even beyond the obligation of the Law as of turning the other cheek to the striker of letting go the Cloak also to him that takes away the Coat of going two other miles with him that will force you one mile and the like Think how just it is to follow his counsel in all things for in him be all the treasures of wisdom and Knowledge hid And by Isaie he is stiled Councellour and the Angel of great Councel Of our Lords Sermon on the Mount Mat. 5. Part 2. COnsider 1. All men have a natural desire of felicity yea even the most wicked of all would be happy but will not seek after true happiness Therefore Christ beginneth with that which all men desire as if he should say You all desire to be happy therefore I will shew you the several ways that lead to true happiness Do you therefore set your affections upon this true Felicity and seek it only by such ways or means as Christ hath pointed out to you Ps 143.15 Consider 2. How contrary are the ways of God from the ways of the world and his judgments from those of men The World placeth its felicity in honours riches pleasures eating and drinking freedom from pain and grief c. They have said that it is a happy people which hath these things On the contrary Christ pronounceth them happy that are poor meek and humble that hunger and thirst after Justice that suffer reproaches and torments c. As the Heavens are exalted above the earth so are my ways exalted above your ways Is 55.9 saith our Lord. See with what Party you side with Christ or with the World Ps 83.6 Consider 3. Eight Virtues contemptible to the world Christ honoured with the title of Beatitudes and of them as so many steps made a Ladder for us to climb up to our last and everlasting Felicity These are 1. Poverty of Spirit 2. Meekness 3. Sorrow for Sins 4. Hunger and thirst after Justice 5. Mercy 6. Purity of Heart 7. Making of peace both with God and with Men. 8. Suffering Persecution for Christ You must also climb this Ladder if you desire to enter into the Joy of our Lord Blessed is the man whose help is from thee he hath disposed Ascension in his heart Of the first Beatitude Blessed are the poor in Spirit Mat. 5.3 c. COnsider 1. More in particular each virtue and in them 1. Their Acts. 2. Christs Example 3. Their reward The proper Acts of Poverty are counted five 1. He is poor in spirit who in affection is ready rather to lose all then offend God 2. Who actually leaveth all for his sake 3. Who aspireth not to things above himself presumeth not of himself nor seeketh the praises of men 4. Who denieth his own judgment and will submitting himself to others 5. Who acknowledgeth whatsoever he hath as a gift of God and rightly understandeth his own nothing My substance is as nothing before thee Ps 38.6 See how you are in each point Phil. 2.7 Consider 2. The admirable Examples which Christ gave us in this kind throughout his whole Life but chiefly in his Crib in Banishment in his Parents House and on the Cross Besides he exinanited himself as the Apostle saith made subject and obedient not only to his Eternal Father and Parents on earth till the thirtieth year of his Age but also to his Tormentors even to death it self And of his Doctrine he publickly professed My Doctrine is not mine but his that sent me Jo. 7.16 Consider 3. The Reward of this Poverty For theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven Mat. sup Think what a gainful kind of Merchandise this is to get an Everlasting Kingdom by the exchange of some few transitory enjoyments of this life Ponder the excellency of this Kingdom its riches glory beauty and perpetuity That which eye hath not seen 1 Cor. 2.9 nor ear hath heard neither hath it ascended into the heart of man what things God hath prepared for them that love him Wherefore S. Grogory Nazianzen had reason to say Happy is he that buyeth Christ S. Greg. Naz. de Beatitud spiritu vitae Regul though with all his goods and fortunes Of the second Beatitude Blessed are the Meek Mat. 5.4 c. COnsider 1. After Poverty in Spirit that is contempt of the World and its desires followeth Meekness as the Child its Parent The Acts of this are chiefly three The first is to bridle the passions of Anger and Revenge and when zeal is to be shewed to do it without any perturbation either interiour or exteriour The second is to be affable to all and troublesome to none neither in word nor in action The third not to oppose or put off injuries with violence even when you lawfully may but to suffer your own contempt with peace and tranquillity of mind Think how you are in these particulars Mat. 12.19 20. Is 42.2 3 4. Consider 2. Christs example herein of whom Isaie saith He shall not contend nor cry out neither shall any man hear in the streets his voice The reed bruised he shall not break and smoaking flax he
after thee in the odour of thine oyntments Cant. 1.4 Jo. 1.19 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the Anointed of our Lord. Cant. 1.3 Ps. 44.8 COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Gospel How the Pharisees sent to St. John to demand whether he were Christ whereas this name agreeth with none but our Lord Jesus who properly is Christ or the Anointed of our Lord and that by a triple Unction as King as Prophet as High Priest Oyl poured out is thy name saith the Spouse And David Thy God hath anointed thee with the oyl of gladness above thy fellows Where ever he goeth he carrieth with him a most sweet sent of Vertues And who would not run in the odour of his precious oyntments Ps. 44.9 Consider 2. This same Anointed of our Lord will come to day unto you in the Eucharist to make you partaker of his sweet Oyntments for Myrrhe and Aloes and Cassia from thy garments that is from the Sacramental Forms which cover him as garments hence he will anoint you with a threefold Unction 1. With the Unction of Mercy blotting out your sins 2. With the Unction of Fortitude strengthening you against your Spiritual Conflicts 3. With the Unction of Wisdom instructing and enlightening your Understanding For His Vnction teacheth you saith St. John of all things 1 Jo. 2.27 Ps. 131.17 Consider 3. You must prepare your self against Christs coming I have prepared saith David a lamp to my Christ Which the holy Doctours expound of John Baptist for he was the lamp burning and shining Jo. 5.35 Prepare also in the same manner the lamp of your Soul cleansing it from filth of sin and giving it brightnesse and lustre proceeding from good works that you may both burn inwardly with love and shine forth to others by example Of the Visitation of the B. Virgin And first of her Journey to Elizabeth Luc. 1.39 COnsider 1. The Word Incarnate as soon as he was conceived hastened to fanctifie his Precursor that so he might presently begin the Office of a Saviour He could have done this where he was and at that distance but he inspired his Mother to go to Elizabeths house that she who was to be a Mediatrix between us and her Son might in some sort concur to the first Sanctification which he wrought And she now full with God readily followeth the divine impulse and willingly embraceth the occasion of doing a good office Learn of both to be zealous in helping others and not to let slip any occasion of exercising Charity And Mary rising up went unto the hilly countrey with speed Consider the promptnesse of her Obedience to the divine Inspirations Neither the difficulties nor unpleasantnesse of a long journey nor her own tendernesse nor the quality of being now Mother of God could take her off but she presently puts her self upon the way This sudden departure of hers was not out of vain complement or ceremony nor of curiosity nor of doubt in what the Angel had assured her but out of pure zeal of pleasing God and helping her neighbour Observe her singular modesty recollection and devotion wherewith she entertaineth the Son of God whom she carrieth in her womb and learn hence how to demean your self while you yet carry within your breast the same Son of God in the Sacrament Consider 3. It is proper for them that are full of the divine Spirit to tend towards the Mount of Perfection to despise the world and to aspire to things above Gen. 19.17 Ambr. in Luc. and to Heaven it self Save thy self in the mountain said the Angel to Lot Besides they do it with speed and servour for as St. Ambrose saith the Grace of the Holy Ghost knoweth no lingring delays See whether in your thoughts and desires you do not cleave to these inferiour things and whether you do not go slowly and coldly on towards the mount of Perfection Of the Blessed Virgins Entrance into the house of Elizabeth Luc. 1.44 COnsider 1. Mary being entred into the house of Elizabeth saluteth first though greater in dignity So it becometh every one to prevent each other in Civility and Charity Think with what modesty and in what terms she delivered her self happily in those Hail Our Lord With thee There passed no empty Complements nor worldly Ceremonies between them but hearty expressions of mutual ioy At the voice of Mary the Eternal Word sanctifieth his Precursor cleanseth him of Original Sin enricheth him with the gifts of Grace and Sanctity bestoweth upon him the use of reason and makes him sensible even then of the Mystery of the Incarnation and of his own happinesse As the voice of thy Salutation sounded in my ears the Infant in my Womb did leap for joy Consider 2. How Elizabeth also at the voice of Mary was replenished with the Holy Ghost endowed with the gift of Prophesie and cried out with a loud voice and said Blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy Womb. Learn hence how beneficial is the Mediation of the Blessed Virgin by whose means the Eternal Word wrought such admirable effects in the Infant and his Mother and that we all partake of the fulnesse of Maries Grace and Blessings Salute her with the Spirit of Elizabeth acknowledge and extoll her Excellency proceeding from the divine Fruit of her Womb For By their fruits you shall know them Mat. 7.16 Consider 3. Those other words of Elizabeth Whence is this to me that the Mother of my Lord doth come to me Humility doth ever accompany the divine Spirit and his gifts Observe how by divine Inspiration she stileth her Mother of God which the Holy Church acknowledgeth as her chief title Happily St. John might use the like expressions towards his Sanctifier and like affections passe between the Infants from Womb to Womb as did between the two Mothers Learn from the Infant and his Mother how to entertain your Lord when he cometh to you in the B. Sacrament Of the Canticle Magnificat COnsider 1. Elizabeth having uttered these great praises the B. Virgin brake ferth into that admirable Canticle Magnificat Observe how she returneth not the like again in complement as is the fashion of the world nor yet out of a dissembling pretence of humility doth she deny them as most do in like occasions but ascribeth all to God nothing to her self Learn hence that it is not the vertue of humility to deny or dissemble the natural of supernatural gifts we have but 1. To acknowledge them as proceeding from the meer goodnesse of God not from our selves or our own deserts 2. To give God all the praise and honour usutping nothing thereof to our selves Prov. 2.14 Consider 2. Two principal documents we are taught in this Canticle First to rejoyce and delight in God alone and in things appertaining to our Salvation not in the vanities and pleasures nor in the praises and favour of the World for God
alone it is who hath done great things to the Blessed Virgin and daily doth to his Church He alone is powerful he alone holy extending his mercy from generation to generations to them that fear him not to them that contemn and provoke him by their sins Examine wherein you are wont to be most delighted and see you be not one of those that rejoyce in most wicked things Bernard Consider 3. The other document which is the admirable vertue and efficacy of humility and this 1. In the person of the Blessed Virgin in whom it was the foundation or cause of all her blessings Because he hath regarded the humility of his handmaid for behold from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed 2. In relation to all in general He deposeth the mighty from their seat and exalteth the humble the hungry he filleth with good things and the rich he sendeth away empty Wherefore if you would be looked upon and favoured by God if you desire to be exalted if you wish to be replenished with heavenly gifts purchase humility love to be unknown and not regarded Of the B. Virgins Stay with Elizabeth COnsider 1. The B. Virgin being led by Elizabeth into the inner rooms saluteth Zachary who no doubt received special comfort and singular favours at the presence of the divine Infant and his Mother Yet he who at his Mothers first Salutation made the other Infant to leap for joy would not at this other restore speech unto the father This was a favour reserved for the honour of his Precursor at his birth Learn hence to reverence the divine Providence in the dispensing of his favours and not to prescribe to God the time or manner of affording his succour but patiently to expect with Zachary his divine pleasure Ambr. in Luc. Consider 2. The Virgin remained in the house of Zachary about the space of three moneths conversing with them with all humility and charity assisting and serving them in what she could even in the meanest domestical offices Think how holy was the conversation of that blessed company what fervent discourses and always of God how greatly Elizabeth and others profited by the company of Mary For If at the first entrance saith St. Ambrose so great was the profit that at Maries Salutation the Infant leaped and his Mother was replenished with the Holy Ghost what do we think Maries presence added by the benefit of so long a time Hence love to converse with the good and withall procure that others also may be the better for your company and conversation 2 Reg. 6.11 Consider 3 That which is said in the second of Kings The Ark of our Lord dwelt in the house of Obededom three moneths and our Lord blessed Obed-edom and all his house How much more may we think he did blesse the house of Zachary wherein the living Ark of our Lord and Mother of God dwelt so long The like blessing will he pour forth upon your house when he cometh to you in the Holy Eucharist if you receive him as you ought Luc. 1.6 Of the Nativity of St. John Baptist 1. Part. COnsider 1. The Sanctity of St. Johns Parents They were both just walking in all the commandments and justifications of our Lord without blame Here detest the perversenesse of Hereticks that hold all Gods commandments impossible learn to observe all not only Precepts but also Justifications or Councels and whatsoever else appertains to the perfection of your Calling that you may both be just in the sight of God and so deserve the blessing of a Son John that is of divine Grace and be without blame in your life and conversation with men Consider 2. How God did honour the Birth of his Precursor 1. In sending the same Angel Gabriel to denounce his and his own Sons Birth 2. In the manner of the Annunciation which was more Solemn then that which was made to the Virgin This being delivered to the High Priest in the Temple and Sancta Sanctorum in time of publick Sacrifice all the people being in expectation and wonder 3. In imposing the name himself by the Angel which we do not read he did to any other then his Son and this not an empty name but full of mystery making good in effect what it did signifie in outward sound Consider 3. The dignity of St. Johns office expressed in those words of the Angel He shall go before him bearing witnesse and preaching Christ by word of mouth and example of life In the Spirit and Vertue of Elias that is with an undaunted courage and zeal which be shewed throughout the whole course of his life in the Wildernesse at the riâ—er Jordan in Cities in Herods Court in Prison and Death it self To prepare unto the Lord a perfect people by his Baptisme preaching of Pennance and the austerity and rigour of his life Think whether this be not in some part also your Vocation and accordingly excite your self to imitate the Sanctity of Saint John Luc. 1.57 Of the Nativity af St. John Baptist 2. Part. Ps 36.3 COnsider 1. Elizabeths full time was come to be delivered and she bare a Son Ponder the Joy of the Parents and whole house and the Congratulations of their Neighbours and Kinsfolks for her delivery of a Son after so many years unfruitfulness and expectation No lesse is the joy of the Saints and Angels and comfort of a Soul when it is fruitful of good works and bringeth to effect what it conceiveth by vertue of divine Inspirations Be not dismayed if you do not presently attain the Vertue or overcome not the Vice which you desire Keep still in heart for God is wont to defer his gifts and favours the more to inflame our desires Hope therefore in God and do good and he will giue thee the petitions of thy heart Consider 2. John is his name which signifieth Grace for no Saint whatsoever after Christ and the B. Virgin did so abound with the gifts of Grace For he was by Office and purity of life an Angel in Spirit Elias more then a Propeht Sanctified in his mothers womb and one then whom as Christ himself witnessed none among the born of women ever rose greater Reverence this Saint so singularly beloved and so near allied to our Lord and endeavour to imitate his heroick Vertues Consider 3. What happeneth at his Birth 1. The Mother by divine Inspiration giveth him his name 2. The father writing the same in a Table forthwith his mouth was opened and his tongue and he spake blessing God 3. He was replenished with the Holy Ghost and prophesied c. Observe here how by Pennance and due submission a man riseth greater then he fell 4. They all marvelled and fear came upon all their neighbours 5. All that had heard these things laid them up in their heart saying What an one trow ye shall this child be for the hand of our Lord was with him Do you likewise lay these
desirous to enjoy the sight of her Son whom she knew to be God of God and Man of her own nature and substance She did probably apply to him and her self those words of the Canticles Who shall give to me thee my Son that I may finde thee without and kiss thee In the mean while she exercised most ardent affections of love and conformity to the divine will both as to the time place and conveniences of her Delivery casting her self and all her care upon God 1 Pet. 5.7 as St. Peter admonisheth us for that he hath care of us Do you the same in all your affairs and examine wherein you are deficient Consider 3. How well the divine Infant did requite the long harbour his Mother gave him in her Womb. If at his first entrance in his Conception he bestowed upon her such extraordinary grace and favours how did he increase them during his nine moneths abode Illuminating her Understanding with an infused light and knowledge of the Mysteries of Faith and inflaming her will with more then Seraphick Affections of divine Love He was no burthen nor pain nor the least trouble unto her but a most welcome guest an ease and comfort in all occasions He would be so in proportion likewise to you in the Sacrament if you would give him entertainment and not pour your self forth presently upon other affairs Of the Expectation of the Virgins Delivery 2. Part. Is 4â— 8 COnsider 1. The Expectation on the behalf of the Fathers in Limbo praying continually and crying out Drop dew ye heavens from above and let the clouds rain the Just be the earth opened and bud forth a Saviour They longed to be set free that they might presently enjoy the Beatifical Vision Therefore they said Be manifest before Ephraim Ps 79.3 4. Benjamin and Manasses shew thy face and we shall be saved Quicken your dull heart with these inflamed desires Ber. ser 2. in Cant. Be ashamed saith St. Bernard that the exhibition of this benefit doth not cause in thee a joy answerable to that inflamed desire which the bare promise enkindled in the hearts of the ancient Saints Ps. 38.8 Consider 2. What expectation every devout Soul ought to be in of having Christ Spiritually born in it self by Grace What is my expectation said David is it not our Lord Wherefore we must employ all the saculties of our Soul 1. Our Memory and Understanding in a serious and attentive consideration of his admirable Vertues and Perfections 2. Our Will in ardent affections of love and desire of expressing in our selves what we behold in him that according to the Apostle Beholding the glory of our Lord 2 Cor. 3.18 we may be transformed into the same image Gal. 4.19 Consider 3. We must not content our selves with bare affections and desires for by these we only conceive Christ not bring him forth but we must also with the Apostle Travel as women in labour in the exercise of Christian Perfection till Christ be formed in us labouring to bring to light the good desires which by divine Inspiration we have conceived otherwise they will but torment 〈◊〉 conscience and prove at last our ruine as it often happeneth to mothers when they miscarry for as the Wiseman saith Prov. 21.25 Desires kill the slothful Wherefore encourage your self and inflame your heart by means of those Antiphons the Church useth these days Ecclesâ—◠〈◊〉 Officio Advent saying O wisdom which hast issued forth of the mouth of the Highest c. O Adonal and the like Of the B. Virgins Journey to Bethlehem Luc. 2.1 THere came forth an Edict from Cesar Augustus c. Consider 1. The wonderful disposition of the divine Providence Christ could have been born where at what time and with what ease and convenience he had pleased he would notwithstanding debar himself of all and disposed it so that it should happen to be in the Winter and that Cesars Edict should send his Parents far from home that he might misse even of those small conveniences wherewith he might in some sort have been provided at Nazareth Rem 11.33 O depth of the riches of the wisdom and of the knowledge of God! Go now you that seek so greedily after your own eare and pleasures Either God is deceived â—ern de nativ for 3. or the world in an errour saith St. Bernard because their dictamenâ— are quite contrary to one another Cant. 2.9 16. Consider 2. St. Josephs and the B. Virgins Obedience to the Edict with their own great inconvenience taking a long journey of near about a hundred miles Look upon the Travellers see with what modesty patience and conformity to Gods will they carry themselves in all things Think what sweet discourses the Virgin holdeth with her Son My beloved to me and I to him c. Behold he standeth behind our wall looking through the windows looking forth by the grates For All things are naked and open to his eyes Heb. 4.13 Out of every thing gather something for your self Jo. 1 1â— Consider 3. When they were come to Bethlehem they went about all the Innes but could finde no entertainment Good God! there was place for the refuse of men but no room to be found for the Son of God! He came into his own and his own received him not See how patiently they bear this repulse and betake themselves to a cave or open and ruined stall Imitate and love to be set behind all O how true was that The foxes have holes and the fowls of the air nests but the Son of man hath not where to repose his head Think now often you have denied him entertainment while your heart was wholly taken up and full of worldly vanities If any be a little one let him come to me Prov. 9.4 Is 9.6 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as a little one Luc. 2.12 COnsider 1. What is said by Isaie A little childe is born to us and a son is given to us And in the Gospel You shall find the Infant swadled in clothes Thus the Lord of Majesty delighteth in the name of a little one and that he might be such brought himself in a manner to nothing See how little he is in his Crib Is 40.12 Who pondereth the Heavens with a span who poiseth with three fingers the huge greatness of the Earth Gal. 2.20 Consider 2. This little one will come to be Spiritually born this day in your heart by Holy Communion if you prepare him a Crib in Bethleem that is in the house of Bread He appeared to men first in flesh now he will communicate himself anew unto you in bread to impart unto you by this living Bread his own divine and immortal life Go then to this divine Mystery so that he may be born anew in your heart which will certainly be if you begin to lead a life conformable to his if you
in a stable upon a bed of straw Consider 3. And falling down adored him 1. They prostrated themselves with most profound humility as well interior as exterior acknowledging their own unworthiness and their subjection and dependance on him 2. They adored him with a most perfect act of Adoration as their Soveraign Lord and God 3. This Adoration was seconded with an entire oblation of themselves and their Kingdoms with sincere expressions of gratitude both for their own particular and for the general benefit of all in his Incarnation and Vocation of the Gentiles together with most ardent affections of love and desires that all the world might come to his knowledge and service Learn hence what admirable effects a lively faith doth work in a devout Soul and with that affections you are to come to the same Lord in the Holy Eucharist Mat. 2.11 Of the Sages Offerings or Gifts ANd opening their treasures they offered to him gifts Gold Frankincense and Myrrhe Consider how with the above-named affections of faith humility reverence devotion and love they offer gifts in homage to their Soveraign Lord and that of the best things they had and out of their treasures that you might learn to give to God and to employ the best not the worst things you have in divine uses Consider the gifts in particular and present yours joyntly with them They offer Gold as Tribute to their Lord and King Offer him also Gold that is 1. a heart full of Charity loving him from your whole heart for as Gold is the chief of Metals so Charity is the Queen of Vertues 2. Exterior worldly goods with an affection and love to Poverty setting them all at naught in respect of his divine service so as to be ready even actually to leave all rather then to offend him only Venially Ps 140.2 Consider 2. They offer Frankincense in acknowledgement of his Divinity Offer also your Frankincense of fervent and frequent Prayer saying with David Let my prayer O Lord be directed as incense in thy sight Offer again to God your Frankincense that is your will as a most sweet perfume and this by Obedience to your Superiours Governours and Directours whom God hath appointed in his place over you For there is no Sacrifice more grateful to him then that of our will by means of Obedience 1 Reg. 15.22 Better is Obedience saith Samuel then Victims Consider 3. They offer Myrrhe as to a mortal man Offer you also the Myrrhe which is of a bitter taste of Mortification chastifing your body with St. Paul and bringing it to subjection so as to obey the Spirit Offer also a special Myrrhe of Chastiry carefully avoiding whatsoever may endamage it for as Myrrhe preserveth dead bodies from corruption S. Greg. Orat. 16. so Chastity doth keep both the bodies and minds of the living undefiled Lastly consecrate your whole self to God and give whatsoever you have to him who hath given you all things Of the Sages Return ¶ If the Octave fall upon Sunday make this Meditation on Saturday and on Sunday of H. Communion as above 1 Jo. 4.1 2 Cor. 11.14 COnsider 1. How the Sages having performed their homage and duty of Adoration having also presented the B. Virgin and St. Joseph with some gifts and taken their leave were now ready for their return full of spiritual joy and zeal of bringing others to Christ and amongst them Herod himself but were admonished in their sleep that they should not go back to him Whence you may learn that God hath a care of them that are his and can easily frustrate the subtile intentions of the wicked And that in the way of Vertue not every motion which seems to be according to zeal ought always to be followed But we must prove the spirits if they be of God for oftentimes as the Apostle witnesseth Satan transfigureth himself into an Angel of light Consider 2. How they presently obeyed and went back another way into their Countrey Mat. 2.12 So ought we to follow the inspirations of God and they that have had more knowledge and experience of Christ should enter into another course of life of greater exactness and perfection in their progress towards their heavenly countrey Greg. hom in Epiph. from which seeing we turned away by pleasures we should return by the contrary way of sorrow and repentance Think how the B. Virgin behaved her self in all these passages and what joy she was in to see her Son thus adored and that of the Prophet fulfilled Ps 71.10 The Kings of Tharsis and the Islands shall offer presents c. Recommend your self earnestly to her saying with S. Bernard Orat. S. Ber. By you Virgin Mother let us have access to your Son 2 Cor. 9.6 Consider 3. The B. Infant did not send the Sages away empty but highly rewarded for their pains and devotion He bestowed upon them supernatural and heavenly gifts in return to theirs for their Gold he gave them the rich treasures of Wisdom and Charity for their Frankincense the gift of Prayer and Devotion for their Myrrhe the Soveraign Balm of his divine Grace against the corruption of Sin We can give nothing to God that returneth not with advantage to our selves the more we give the more we shall receive Be liberal therefore to God that he may be so to you remembring what the Apostle saith He that soweth sparingly sparingly also shall reap and he that soweth in blessings of blessings also shall reap ¶ If there remain any days between the Octave and the 2. Sunday repeat these Meditations according to the number of the days If a whole Week then on Munday take the Meditation of the Purification and go on with them the other days as they follow intermitting that of the second Sunday till it cometh in its course of that year Behold the Bridegroom cometh go ye forth to meet him Mat. 25.6 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the Spouse of your Soul Ose 2.19 COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Gospel There was a Marriage made in Cana of Galilee c. Jo. 2.1 The like Espousals will be made this day between Christ and your Soul if you will but give your consent for he on his part doth earnestly desire it according to that I will despouse thee to me for ever and I will despouse thee to me in Justice and Judgement and in Mercy and in Commiserations Nay although you have often been disloyal unto him by your disordinate affection and adhering to creatures he is notwithstanding ready to pardon all and even invites you again to him by the Prophet Jer. 3.1 Thou hast committed fornication with many lovers nevertheless return unto me saith our Lord and I will receive thee Ps 44.3 Consider 2. How great a dignity it is to be espoused to a King here upon Earth How much greater then to the King of Heaven Think how incomparable is the
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
the Divel from us 2. It alâ—ayeth the heat of Concupi cence Apoc. 22.2 3. It clearseth the heart from sin 4. It appeaseth the wrath of God 5. It enlightneth the understanding 6. It inflameth the will 7. It spiritually delighteth the memory 8. It confirmeth the whole man in good 9. It freeth from everlasting death 10. It multiplyeth our merits 11. It bringeth us to Paradise 12. It raiseth the body to life How great is the multitude of thy sweetness O Lord Ps. 30.20 which thou hast hid for them that fear thee Consider 3. The Mustardseed discovereth not its Vertve unless it be bruised but being well bruised or ground it discloseth its heat and relish In the same manner you must before hand by frequent meditating and serious consideration beat upon and bruise this divine seed of the Eucharist otherwise you will not understand its Vertue Wherefore ruminate it well pondering its secret and hidden Vertues and withall think what disposition it requireth in you and then to your great benefit you will perceive what a soveraine heat and relish it hath If there are six Weekes after Epiphany then in the sixth repeat the Meditations of the fifth For by reason it seldom falleth out that there are so many weekes it seemed needless to provide distinct Meditations for the sixth Week Or els make the Meditations of the four and twentith Week after Pentecost of the Parables which that year are to be left out Things to be noted concerning the Meditations of our Lords Passion THe Holy Church from Septuagesme leaveth off her Allelluias and Canticles of Joy and disposeth us to mourning and the memory of our Lords Passion for therefore is this Sunday called Septuagesme saith Rupertus because it beginneth the seventh week before Passion Sunday Wherefore it hath seemed good from thence to enter into the Meditations of the Passion wherein though many affections may be exercised for the Colloquies as appeareth by what hath been said in the Preface yet chiefly seven are noted by some as most proper to this Subject the which because we can not with our intended brevity insert in every Meditation we have thought good to touch them briefly in this place The Affections are these Admiration Compassion Compunction Love Hope Thanksgiving Imitation 1. Admire in each Mystery the dignity of the Person that suffereth and the greatness of the paines which he freely undergoeth Is. 63.1.2 Who is this that cometh from Edom with died garments from Bosra Why then is thy cloathing red and thy garments as theirs that tread in the Wine-press 2. Condole with him as Childeren doe with their Parents in their adversities Brothers with one another Spouses with their beloved Servants with their Masters for Christ is as much to you as all these 2. Reg. 18.33 Who would grant me that I might dye for thee Absolom my son my son Absolom 3. Be confounded and full of Compunction for that your sins are cause of all his Sufferings for from whom would not that draw teares which from Christ drew so much bloud Psa 50.5 I doe know mine Iniquity and my sin is before me allwayes 4. Love him that is so loving to you and suffereth so much for your sake Lord said S. Ambross I owe more to your injuries for my redemption Ambr. l. 1. in Luc. then to your works for my creation 5. Hope and promise your self all good that your heart can wish for for he that hath given himself How will he not also give us all things Rom. 8.32 6. Give him every where thanks for having suffered so much for you Chryso hom 26. in Mat. The best keeper of benefits saith S. Chrysostom is a faithful Memory of them and constant profession of Gratitude 7. Lastly Imitate your Lord and Captaine in sufferings reproches and injuries Hath he suffered so much for you and what have you or what will you suffer for him Christ suffered for us saith S. Peter leaving you an example that you may follow his steps Let my beloved come into his garden and eat the fruit of his Apple trees Cant. 5.1 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the Master of the Vineyard of your Soul Mat. 20.1 COnsider 1. Your soul and the soul of every man is a particular Vineyard belonging to the great Householder of whom we read to day in the Ghospel c. Make account therefore that he will come to day to visit your soul his Vineyard to gather some fruit out of it Imagin that he saith with the spouse in the Canticles Cant. 7.12 Let us rise early to the Vineyards let us set if the Vineyard florish if the flowers be ready to bring forth fruits Jer. 2.21 Consider 2. This divine householder hath omitted nothing on his part that might make you a fruitful Vineyard I planted thee saith he by his Prophet an elect Vineyard all true seed c. He hath sowed within you many seeds of true piety he hath hedged you in with holy Laws he hath provided you with the benefit of the Holy Sacraments as so many Presses and Conduits of his Grace Isa 5.4 c. Finally what is there that I ought to doe more to my Vineyard saith he himself and baâ—â— not done to it Procure therefore to yeeld him ripe fruit See whither he may not say of your Vineyard I looked it should yeeld grapes and it hath yeelded wild grapes that is sowr and unpleasant grapes for then he will powr out upon it that heavy curse that followeth I will lay it wast it shall not be pruned and it shall not be digged and bryars and thorns shall overgrow it and I will command the cloudes that they rain no shower upon it Which his infinit goodness avert Cant. 8.12 Ps. 1.3 Consider 3. You must therefore Husband your Vineyard carefully against his coming Prime all superfluities by Mortification Digg and dive deeply into your soul by a profound knowledge of your self Root out by contrary acts the bryars of vitious habits and by the teares of compunction water the dry affections of your heart Lastly let your Vineyard be before you by continually looking to it And it will give its fruit iâ— its time Christ inviteth all men to contemplate his Passion Ps. 68.21 COnsider 1. Christ with all reason doth complain that having suffered so many and so great paines and torments for man man should be so ungrateful as not vouchsafe to think of them I expected somebody that would be sory together with me and there was none and that would comfort me and I found not Therefore Isay The Just peri heth Ps. 57.1 and there is none that considereth in his heart Think what it is to consider in ones heart to wiâ— with compassion and compunction Thren 1.12 Consider 2. Nothing can we doe more acceptable to Christ then often to meditate on his passion for which cause he lovingly inviteth all unto
in hand like passengers eating speedily c. whereby were expressed the vigour of mind and promptness wherewith he suffered Exod. 12.11 Consider 3. Christ beholding the Lamb upon the table dead flead and rosted he reflected how himself was to be extended upon the Cross dead flead with whips and scorched with the heat and rage of his torments Beholding the same Lamb cut in pieces without breaking any of the bones he considered the mangling of his own sacred body and disjoynting of his bones though without the breach of any The hast wherewith they were to eat the Lamb represented the hasty fury and rage of his enemies to make him away The bitter Lettice called to his mind the Gall and bitter chalice of his Passion And the staffe in his hand represented the Cross which he was to embrace and to be fastened unto Jo. 13. Of Washing the Disciples feet Jo. 13.1 c. COnsider 1. After the Paschal Lamb was eaten Christ intending to institute a new memorial of himself in leaving us his pretious body and bloud to teach us with what Humility and Purity we ought to come to it would wash the feet of his Disciples Ponder the admirable Charity and Humility of Christ in this action expressed unto us in very signal termes by the Evangelist Jesus knowing that his hour was come that he should pass out of this world to his father whereas he had loved his that were in the world unto the end he loved them And when supper was done whereas the Divel had now put into the heart of Judas c to betray him knowing that the father gave him all things into his hands and that he came from God and goeth to God he riseth from supper and layeth aside his garments and having taken a towel girded himself Ponder each particular Consider 2. After that he put water into a bason and began to wash the feet of the Disciples and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded Behold the God of Heaven cast at the feet of poor fishermen and performing the office of the meanest servant which made S. Peter cry out Lord doest thou wash my feet and againe Thou shalt not wash my feet for ever Ponder Christs severe reprehension of this Dâ—sobedience If I wash thee not thou shalt not have part with me and learn that it is but false vertue and Humility that opposeth it self to Obedience Consider 3. How Christ also washeth Judas his feet and no doubt but with tender expressions of kindness thereby to mollify his hard heart but all in vaine Learn to love your enemies and to gaine them to you by doing good turns Take heed of a hard heart for The Impious when he shall come to the depth of sins Prov. 18.3 contemneth but ignominy and reproch followeth him Ponder and observe those words of Christ Jo. sup I have given you an example that as I have done to you so you doe also Arise be illuminated Jerusalem because thy light is come c. upon thee shall our Lord arise Is. 60.1 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the light of your Soul Ps. 39.13 COnsider 1. And imagin your self to be that blind man in this days Ghospel that sate by the way begging Luc. 18.35 for you are truly blind in many things not distinguishing between black and white true and false solid and counterfited good nor able to see your own defects so that you may truly say with the Propher Mile Iniquities have overtaken me and I was not able to see Tob. 5.12 Consider 2. What a sad and discomfortable life it is to be in continual darkness without corporeal light How much more then to live in spiritual darkness and blindness of mind What manner of joy shall it be to me said Toby when he was blind which sit in darkness and see not the light of Heaven Think with your self whether you behold the clear light of Heaven or rather the dimm and fading light of the Earth and earthly things Consider also how dangerous it is to be in darkness Jo. 12.35 for he that waiketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth and is exposed to a thousand dangers and falls that you may hence learn rightly to esteem the benefit of divine light Mal. 4.2 Jo. 1.9 Consider 3. How Christ out Lord is the San of Justice as the Prophet saith and the true light which lighteneth every man that cometh into this world Beseech him therefore that coming this day into your soul he would produce therein the usual effects of light and open your eyes to see your secret defects and to distinguish true and real goods from such as are only counterfited and have a care you doe not close your eyes or shut your windows against this light Job 24.13 Job saith of sinners They have been rebellious to the light they have not known his ways See you be not rebellious set open the windows of your heart and say with the Prophet Thou doest illuminat my lemp Ps. 17.29 O Lord. My God ibluminat my darkness Mat. 26.26 Mar. 14.22 Luc. 22.19 1 Cor. 11.24 Of the Institution of the B. Sacrament Part 1. Ps. 144.17 COnsider 1. Christ after he had washed his Disciples feet sate down again to table and intending to leave behind him a singular Memorial of his love towards us took bread into his hands to shew that it was the gift of a most liberal hand Thou openest thy hand and fillest every living creature with blessing Then He lifted up his eyes to Heaven to shew whence this bread cometh He gave thanks to his Eternal father for so great a gift be slowed upon man by his means He blessed iâ— and blessing it transformed it into his own body doe you also give thanks for being made partaker of the same divine bread and beseech him to give you such a blessing as may turn you into another man Consider 2. How the Apostles were astonished when they heard that Christ would give them â—â—s own body but they were together illuminated with a heavenly light wherewith they beleeved all things possible to him That you might also learn to captivate your understanding in Obedience to faith See with what Humility Reverence and Devotion each one communicateth and doe you the like when you come to the same table Judas alone in that company Eateth 1 Cor. 11.29 and drinketh judgement to himself not discerning the body of our Lord. Consider 3. This doe ye for the commemoration of me Ibid. v. 25. Ponder Christs infinit Charity and liberality whereby he would have this divine benefit continued throughout all ages and therein gave power to Priests by vertue of his words to consecrate his pretious body which was never granted to the Angels themselves Think what a dignity this is learn to reverence them whom God hath so highly honoured and to hear their voice to which the Eternal word
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
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
by meanes of them is conferred the Holy Ghost and his Grace which is done either by vertue of the work it self or in respect of the merits and disposition of the person that worketh Beseech our Lord that he would in like manner breath upon you inspiring you with his divine Spirit Say with the Spouse in the Canticles Come Southwind Cant. 4.16 blow through my garden and let the aromaticall Spices thereof flow that is all manner of vertue Zachar. 13.1 Consider 3. Whose Sins you shall forgive they are forgiven c. Ponder the dignity and power expressed and conferred in these words He gave not the like to the Priests of the old law nor to the Angels themselves Besides he did not confine it to any determinate number or quality either of Sins or of Priests but would have it general for all by the Sacrament of Confession to shew the Riches of his Bounty Give him thanks for so great a benefit and so easy a remedy of your Sins For this is truly a fountain lying open to the house of David and to the Inhabitants of Jerusalem for the ablution of the Sinner and of the menstruous Woman Jo. 20.26 Christ appeareth to his Disciples when S. Thomas was present Confider 1. The great Incredulity of S. Thomas and how he came to fall into it 1. He was singular and a part from the rest when Jesus appeared 2. He stubbornly rejected what the others alleaged in testimony of the Resurrection 3. He presumptuously prescribed God the means without which he would not believe Vnless I see in his hands the print of his â—ailes c. I will not believe 4. He persisted in that obstinacy eight whole days nothwithstanding the perswasions and endevours of them all and probably of the B. Virgin herself See you be not singular and Learn how dangerous a thing it is willfully to be ruled by ones own judgement and not to yeeld to others Consider 2. Christs goodness like a good Pastor seeking after his lost sheep He returneth therefore he entereth again the doors being shut he saluteth as before and turning to Thomas rebukes him not nor reprehends him but sweetly calls him to himself in these words Pat in thy singer hither and see my hands and bring hither thy hand and put it into my side and be not incredulous but faithfull O how was his heart inflamed when he put his hand into those burning fornates of love In like manner ought yours to be inflamed as often as you receive him in the Holy Eucharist if you were not wholy insensible and colder then the very Ice Ps. 29.9 13. Consider 3. The Admirable Confession of S. Thomas My Lord and my God He acknowledgeth him true Man and true God expressing his â—â—â—an nature in the first word and his divine nature in the other Ponder with your self these titles and seeing he is your Lord carry your self not as your own man but as his and for that he is also your God see that you yeeld him due Worship and Honour Say with the Prophet To thee O Lord I will cry and I will pray to my God And Lord my God for ever I will confess to thee Of Christs wounds shewed to S. Thomas remaining in his Glorious Body Jo. 16.33 COnsider 1. Our Lord out of his goodness would retain the marks of his wounds and the very holes of the nailes for diverse ends 1. To strengthen his Disciples and us in the beliefe of his Resurrection demonstrating thereby that it was the same body that rose and that was before nailed to the Cross 2. In sign of his Victory and Triumph over the world according to that Have confidence I have overcome the world 3. That they might be a perpetual memorial of his love towards us to provoke us to return our love and to suffer for him whence S. Paul said I beare the marks of our Lord Jesus in my body to wit Gal. 6.17 by continual mortifying the flesh Is. 49.15.16 Consider 2. He retained them 4. To shew what care he would have of us in Heaven according to that of Isaie why can a woman forget her infant c. Yet will not I forget thee Behold I have written thee in my hands 5. That he might present them to his Eternal father pleading for us as our Advocate Whence it is that David said Behold O God our Protectour Ps. 83.10 and look upon the face of thy Christ ss 12.3 Consider 3. He kept them that they might be as so many fountains and rivers of his grace and favors like to those fountains which watered all Paradise Whence the Prophet said You shall draw waters in joy out of the Saviours fountains 7. That they might be an universal refuge in all out afflictions according to that Ps. 103 1â— The rock a refuge for the Irchins that is Sinners For the Rosk as the Apostle saith was Christ As often therefore as you are afflicted betake your self to these wounds Enter into the rock with Isaie and be hid in a pit Isa 2.10 in theÌ„ ground from the face of the fear of our Lord. Abide with the Spouse in the Canticles in the holes of the Rock Cant. 2.14 in the hollow places of the wall Our Lord ruleth me and nothing shall be wanting to me in the place of pasture there he hath placed me Ps. 22.2 Gen. 31.40 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as a Good Pastour Is. 53.7 COnsider 1. What Christ saith to day in the Ghospel I am the good Pastour Jo. 10.11 Ponder how well this title aggreeth with him A good Pastour was Jacob who said of himself Day and night I was parched with heat and with frost and sleep did fly from mine eyes But much better was Christ who after thirty three years heats and colds lastly laid down his life for his sheep and himself become as a sheep was led to slaughter But what Shepheard did ever feed his sheep with his own bloud That did Christ to raise and make them fit for Heaven He gave them his body and bloud for meat and drink Who would not wish to be fed by such a Pastour Ezech. 45.11 c. Consider 2. This Pastour will come to you to day in the Holy Eucharist to take care of you to feed to cherish and to defend you from the Infernal wolves For there is no part of a Shepheards Office which he doth not most willingly perform Therefore he saith by the Prophet Behold I my selfe will seek my sheep and will visit them as the Pastour visiteth his flock c. In the most plentifull pastures will I feed them c. That which was Iost I will seek and that which was cast away I will bring again and that which was broken I will bind up and that which was weak I will strengthen and that which was fat and strong I will keep and will feed them in Judgement Ponder
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
holy c. Consider 2. The Holy Ghost appeared over our Lord in the form of a Dove both to express his love towards us for the Dove is a Symbol of sociable love and withall to teach us mildness and simplicity in our life and actions To him likewise are attributed the works of our Justification the distribution of Graces and the benefits of Inspirations and Illuminations The spirit breatheth where he will Jo. 3.8 and thou hearest his voice That you may hence see how much you stand in need of his divine help and protection 1 Cor. 6.19 Consider 3. The Holy Ghost doth not only communicate the gifts of his Grace but also his own substance and person to the Just inhabiting and abiding in them after a special manner as Divines teach according to that of the Apostle Know you not that your members are the Temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you See therefore that you make not his Temple a Den of Thieves by sin Beg of him by continual prayer that he would wash away what is unclean in you Seq in Missa de S. Spiritu water what is dry heal what is wounded bend what is stiff and unruly cherish what is cold and faint and redress whatsoever is amiss Corpus Christi Day He hath made a memory of his admirable works c. He hath given meat to them that fear him Ps 110.4.5 Of Holy Communion Consider Christ as the Instituter of the most Blessed Sacrament Eccli 39.27 COnsider 1. How much you are bound to Christ for instituting so admirable and beneficial a Mystery from which as from a Fountain all manner of good doth flow For the Eucharist 1. Is properly a sacrifice for our sins 2. Spiritual food to keep us in heart 3. A lively Memorial of our Lords Passion 4. The Spring and Fountain of all grace and virtue His blessing saith Ecclesiasticus hath overflowed as a stream Supra Consider 2. This divine Instuter who several ways had shewed himself wonderful in his other works would in this single one imploy all the treasures of his power and wisdom for in the Eucharist there are discovered 1. His infinite wisdome in inventing so admirable a food 2. The like power in the Transubstantiation of Bread and Wine 3. His goodness in communicating himself and penetrating our very bowels in the nature of meat and drink 4. His liberality in giving himself wholly to each one even to the wicked 5. Patience in permitting himself to be unworthily handled and even trodden under feet sometimes by the wicked and so of other virtues He hath made a memory of his marvellous works c. He hath given meat to them that fear him Seq in Missa Consider 3. Hence the Church with good reason these days doth celebrate the memory of this Mystery with great pomp and solemnity If the Ark of God formerly was carried with so great state the King himself dancing all the way before it how much more honour doth the H. Eucharist deserve Go forth therefore to meet it in the best array of your Soul praise honour and thank the Author of it At least do what you are able because he is above all praise and you cannot praise him sufficiently Of the H. Eucharist compared with the Manna Part 1. COnsider 1. Nothing in the Antient Law was more wonderful then the Manna which for fourty years together fell daily from heaven for the sustenance of the people whence David said of it He hath made a memory of his marvellous works c. Consider therefore twelve admirable proprieties of it Ps 110.4 in a far more perfect manner expressed in the Eucharist 1. The Manna was bread but without seed or tillage not growing out of the earth but coming down from heaven So the H. Eucharist This is the bread that came down from heaven Jo. 6.58 And the sacred Body of Christ which is contained therein proceeded not by humane generation but from the Virgin alone and by the divine influence of the Holy Ghost 2. The Manna was made only by Angels whence it was called The bread of Angels Ps 77.25 Malac. 2.7 and the Eucharist only by Priests who are the Angels of the Lord of Hosts upon earth 3. The Manna contained in it self alone All delectation and the sweetness of all tast Sap. 16.20 Cyp. tract de Coena Dom. so the Eucharist surpasseth saith S. Cyprian all delicacies prepared for the tast and all the dainties of sweet meats 4. The Manna in such variety of tast and delight yet did relish differently to each one according as they desired For serving every mans will it was turned to that that every man would Sap. 16.21 so the Eucharist affordeth whatsoever virtue any one can desire to some Humility to others Chastity and so of the rest 5. The sweetness of the Manna was hidden and enjoyed only by the just whence the wicked complained saying Our soul now loatheth at this most light meat Num. 21.5 so with sinners the Eucharist relisheth no better then ordinary bread and therefore is called a hidden Manna 6. The Manna was like to the seed of Coriander whose property it is said to be that though it be broken into never so many pieces yet it retains in every one the whole virtue or strength of the seed so the Eucharist though broken into a thousand parts still as much will remain in one single parcel Seq in Missa as was before in the whole Of the H. Eucharist compared with the Manna Part 2. Exod. 16.18 COnsider the other Proprieties 7. Therefore Manna was given in an equal measure to every one Neither he that gathered more had above nor he that gathered less found under so in the Eucharist one takes a thousand takes but as much he Seq in Missa as they c. 8. The Manna was to be gathered betimes Exod. sup 21. before the Sun rising otherwise it presently melted away although within doors it would endure both fire and Mortar Sap. 16.28 That it might be known to all men saith the wise man that we ought to prevent the Sun to bless thee so the Eucharist doth impart its sweetness not to slothful and sluggish people but to the fervent Prov. 8.18 They that watch toward me shall find me 9. The Manna in an equal proportion served as well men as children old and young Exod. sup 18. so the Eucharist still the same in it self doth work differently in all according to their capacity and the disposition they bring 10. The Manna being kept only till the next day out of covetousness became full of worms Exod. sup 20. 32. and putrified yet being laid up by Gods Command in a Golden Vessel lasted incorrupt for many Generations so the Eucharist to them that receive it unworthily turneth to corruption and to their greater judgment and damnation but in the golden vessel of
his Eternal Father in the Eucharist Of the Eucharist compared to the Tree of Life and its fruits Part 2. Gen. 1.2 THe fifth Misery is want of the knowledge of our selves Darkness was upon the face of the depth so is it likewise upon the heart of that man that is not enlightned with the grace of God Therefore the Prophet saith The heart of man is perverse Jer. 17.9 and unsearchable who shall know it The Eucharist remedieth this enlightning our understanding like to the honey that enlightned the eyes of Jonathas Your selves have seen that mine eyes are illuminated 1 Reg. 14.29 because I have tasted a little of this honey Mat. 24.12 The sixth is want of love towards God and our Neighbour for where Iniquity shall abound Charity shall wax cold This is cured by the Eucharist which inflameth the heart with divine love for the lamps thereof lamps of fire and flames Cant. 8.6 The seventh is the indisposition of our spiritual appetite whereby we relish not spiritual things for the sensual man perceiveth not these things that are of the Spirit of God 1 Cor. 2.14 And he that feedeth himself with the pleasures of this present life his interiour senses are so disordered thereby that he cannot relish spiritual things The Eucharist helpeth this curing the palat of our heart so that we may tast and see that our Lord is sweet Ps 33.9 Luc. 14.30 The eighth is a faintness in perfecting what is good we often begin fervorously but soon fail This man began to build and he could not finish it Against this the H. Eucharist doth strengthen us like to that Loaf of Bread 3 Reg. 19.8 which the Angel brought to Elias In the strength whereof he walked fourty days and fourty nights without any toil unto the Mount of God Horeb. Beg therefore of our Lord these fruits especially that you may be constant in good For of all Virtues saith S. Bernard Perseverance alone is crowned Bernard Of the Eucharist compared with the Tree of Life and its fruits Part 3. Ephes 2.3 OUr ninth Misery is the penalty of Eternal Death For we were as the Apostle saith by nature the children of wrath From this evil the Eucharist freeth us giving us Eternal Life For if any man eat of this bread saith our Lord he shall live for ever Jo. 6.51 Gen. 8.21 The tenth is our continual decay in good passing daily from bad to worse For the sense and cogitation of mans heart are prone to evil from their youth This is taken away by means of the H. Eucharist whereby as by spiritual food man groweth up in a spiritual life and encreaseth in merits of good works for he that abideth in me and I in him Jo. 15.5 the same beareth much fruit Ps 119.5 The eleventh is the irksomness of this worldly banishment of which David Woe is to me that my sejourning is prolonged The Eucharist doth mitigate this tediousness and is given also as a Viaticum or provision to live upon in this our Pilgrimage as was the Manna to the Israelites in the Desart till they were brought into the Land of Promise which to us is the Kingdom of everlasting glory Gen. 3.19 The twelfth is a total corruption of our corporal substance because dust thou art and into dust thou shalt return And thus according to the course of Nature this our body would perish for ever but by reason of the corporal participation of Christ as S. Thomas saith the Saints shall rise again in their bodies more glorious then the Sun according to that of Christ He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood hath life everlasting Jo. 6.54 and I will raise him up in the last day Ps 102.2 3. Admire the admirable virtue of these heavenly fruits and be thankful for so powerful a remedy and preservative against all your maladies My soul bless thou our Lord c. who healeth all thine infirmities Of Preparation for receiving the H. Eucharist by Faith and Purity 1 Cor. 11.28 COnsider 1. How necessary is a due preparation before hand for receiving the H. Eucharist least otherwise through mortal sin you make that your poyson which is the food of life or through indevotion and tepidity you partake less of its sweetness Therefore the Apostle admonisheth Let a man prove himself and so let him eat of that bread And Mat. 22. he that presumed to come to the Marriage Feast without the wedding garment was cast into utter darkness Heb. 10.22 Consider 2. The first preparation must be by Faith which is as it were the ground and foundation of all the rest therefore the Apostle saith Let us approach with a true heart in fulness of faith Kindle therefore in your self a lively faith as often as you frequent this Sacred Mystery and denying whatsoever sense shall object to the contrary offer your life and blood to defend the truth of Gods Word Consider 3. The second preparation must be by Parity which the greater it shall be the more you will partake of its divine fruits and tast of its hidden sweetness wherefore the Prophet Be cleansed ye that carry the Vessels of our Lord Is 52.11 The same doth the Church recommend unto us by ordaining the H. Eucharist to be consecrated upon clean Corporals S. Tho. 6.11 which as S. Thomas observes are first washed then wrung and thirdly dried so he that goes to receive this Sacrament must first of all be washed with the tears of Penance then wrung by works of Mortification and thirdly well dried of worldly affections by the fervour of Charity See whether you find these dispositions in your self Of Preparation for receiving the H. Eucharist by holy Desires and Prayer Eccli 24.26 COnsider 1. To the foresaid Purity must be joyned an ardent desire and hunger after this heavenly Banquet for our Lord inviteth such to himself in those words Pass to me all ye that desire me and be filled of my generations And by the Psalmist he telleth us Ps 106.9 that he hath filled the empty that is the thirsty soul and the hungry soul he hath filled with good things Procure therefore in your self this hunger and thirst as often as you come to this Divine Table Dilate thy mouth Ps 80.11 and I will fill it faith our Lord. Ps 104.40 Consider 2. To this desire must be added earnest Prayer for God bestoweth all he hath upon them that ask Therefore said David They made petition and the Quail came and he filled them with the Bread of Heaven If therefore you desire to have your fill of this heavenly Bread you must make earnest suit for it and give your self to Prayer and Meditation Vnder his shadow whom I desired Cant. 2.3 I sat that is in holy Meditation and Contemplation whence having had experience of its sweetness the Spouse presently adjoyneth and his fruit
of all occasions of doing good and that in all manner of distress according to our ability 3. They ought to be performed with an interiour pious affection Think how you are wont to be in these especially the spiritual works Mercy Mat. 11.28 Consider 2. The example of Christ in these particulars 1. As to all sorts of persons therefore he said Come ye to me all without exception that labour and are burthened and I will refresh you 2. As to all occasions of doing good therefore He was teaching daily in the Temple Luc. 19.47 Act. 10.39 And He went throughout doing good and bealing all that were oppressed of the Devil 3. He performed all with a most tender affection like to the Samaritan Luc. 10.30 c. who bound his wounds that fell among thieves therefore go and do thou in like manner Luc. 6.38 Consider 3. The Reward For they shall obtain mercy as well in this life both for body and soul as in the life to come likewise for both and that after a perfect manner and indeed with the same measure that you do mete it shall be measured to you again Think how much you stand in need of Gods Mercy What would become of you if he should deal with you according to your deserts Be merciful therefore and that in all the works of mercy that you may obtain mercy Judgment without mercy to him saith S. James that hath not done mercy Jac. 2.13 Of the sixth Beatitude Blessed are the clean of heart c. Mat. 5.8 1 Tim. 1. â— COnsider 1. Cleanness of heart consisteth 1. In being free from all sin both Mortal and Venial 2. In the frequent exercise of holy thoughts 3. In the purity of a right intention doing nothing with dissimulation or with intention to appear before men Therefore the Apostle requireth of us Charity from a pure heart and a good conscience and a faith not feigned Examine your self how you are in these particulars 1 Pet. 2.22 Sap. 7.26 Consider 2. Christs example who as S. Peter saith did no sin neither was guile found in his mouth Therefore he is also called The brightness of Eternal Light the unspotted glass of Gods Majesty and the Image of his goodness And did often rebuke the Scribes and Pharisees Mat. 23 2â— Woe to you Scribes and Pharisees Hypocrites because you make clean that on the outside of the cup and dish but within you are full of rapine and uncleanness See whether you imitate Christ or rather the Pharisees in your actions Sap. 1.4 5. Consider 3. The Reward For they shall see God O what a happiness it will be to see God! Neither eye hath seen nor ear heard c. Labour therefore to obtain this purity of heart which the greater it is the perfecter will be your Vision and Essential Happiness Even in this life such shall have a clearer knowledge of God and divine things On the contrary Wisdom will not enter into a malicious soul nor dwell in a soul subject to sins And the Holy Ghost of discipline will fly from him that feigneth saith the wise man Of the seventh Beatitude Blessed are the Peace-makers Mat. 5.9 c. COnsider 1. There are four several ways of making peace The first is to make peace with ones self by subjecting the Flesh to the Spirit and the Sensual Appetite to Reason The second is to keep peace with others to hurt none to give no body occasion of complaint The third is to pacifie and make agree those that are at variance The fourth and most excellent of all others is to reconcile souls to God Think how you carry your self in these Is 9.6 Consider 2. The example of Christ who therefore came down from Heaven that he might be out Mediator for peace and is therefore called A peaceable King and Prince of Peace At his first entrance into the world he brought Peace with him And in earth Luc. 2.14 peace to men of good will And at his going forth of it again he left us his Peace as a Legacy saying Jo. 14.27 Peace I leave to you my peace I give to you c. Lastly he would have his Disciples to salute all with the word of peace Peace to this house And himself after his Resurrection Luc. 10.5 used the like salutation to them Phil. 4.7 Consider 3. The Reward For they shall be called the Children of God Think what a dignity it is to be the Son of Almighty God If it be thought a great matter to be the Son of some earthly Prince how much more to have the Heavenly King and Lord of all for his Father Wherefore Almighty God doth after a special manner love cherish and protect these Peace-makers as his own children See how you keep peace within your self with God and with your Neighbour and do your endeavour that the Peace of God which passeth all understanding keep your heart aad intelligence Of the eighth Beatitude Blessed are they that suffer Persecution Mat. 5.10 c. 1 Pet. 4.16 COnsider 1. These four things 1. Under the Name of Persecution are comprehended all manner of injuries afflictions and incommodities in our fortunes honor and life 2. These are raised by the Devil or his Ministers Sometimes also through mistake God so permitting by the Just 3. They are inflicted for Justice sake when one suffereth them for the exercise of virtue and incompliance with his proper duties both towards God and men 4. In such occasions they are to be suffered not only patiently but also joyfully for the greatness of the reward Therefore S. Peter saith Let none of you suffer as a Murderer or a Thief or a Railer c. but if as a Christian let him not be ashamed but let him glorifie God in this Name Consider 2. The Example of Christ who endured all manner of injuries and incommodities in his honour in his goods in his person for a cause which on his part was the most just that could be to wit for the publishing his most wholesome and Divine Law and bringing Mankind back from the dirt and mire of Vice whereinto he was fallen to the way of Eternal Salvation Exod. 25.40 Therefore look and do according to the pattern Rom. 8.18 Consider 3. The Reward For theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven And again Be glad and rejoyce for your reward is very great in Heaven Ponder well the greatness or this Reward and how true is that of the Apostle The passions of this time are not condigne to the glory to come that shall be revealed in us Of those words of our Lord Mat. 5.13 You are the Salt of the Earth c. COnsider 1. Salt doth both season Meat and preserve it from Corruption So it is the part of all Apostolical men to preserve Souls from the corruption of sin and besides to render the exercise of Virtue savoury and pleasant unto them
If it be your lot to serve God in the nature of Salt see that you be first throughly refined and purged from worldly affections by the fire of Divine Charity that you may be such your self as you desire to make others Consider 2. How excellently Christ performed this proper effect of Salt who to purge and preserve us from sin spent himself wholly upon us in a manner melting away like salt and communicated to our actions of themselves insipid and of no worth the divine savour and value of his precious Merits Moreover by his Example and Doctrine he hath made Persecutions which are bitter of themselves sweet and pleasant unto us Permit your self therefore to be seasoned with the Salt of his Wisdom and Example Levit. 2.13 what Sacrifice soever thou offerest thou shalt season it with salt saith our Lord that is with the Merits and Example of Christ Mat. 5.14 Consider 3. But if the salt loose his virtue c. it is good for nothing any more but to be cast forth and trodden of men In the same manner will God use those Preachers that have no virtue or efficacy either of Example or Doctrine to season the life and manners of others but vanish and moulder away by pride vain glory and affection to worldly things Rom. 1.21 They are become vain in their cogitations saith the Apostle and their foolish heart hath been darkened See that you do not at any time come to this pass Of those words of Christ Mat. 5.15 You are the Light of the World c. Dan. 12.3 COnsider 1. Apostolical men are to be not only Salt to purge the hearts of men from sin but also the light of the world to enlighten others and direct them into the way of all Virtue This is a Divine Office and most acceptable to God according to that They that be learned shall shine as the brightness of the Firmament and they that instruct many to Justice as stars unto perpetual eternities 'T is the property of light both to enlighten and to give heat See therefore how you do already or may hereafter perform both Jo. 1.9 Consider 2. How Christ was the true Light which lighteneth every man that cometh into the world by word and example and by the interiour Rays of his Grace Besides ponder how light although it pass through unclean places is nothing defiled thereby So Christ and all Apostolical men although they converse and deal with sinners yet partake not with them in their sins Baruc. 3.25 Consider 3. Those words of Christ Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel Where also those are reprehended who imploy not themselves in enlightening their Neighbour according to the Talent they have received but rather hide their light in their bosome either out of pusillanimity or sluggishness Do you rather according to the charge God hath committed unto you be careful to shine forth to all like unto the Stars of which Baruch speaketh They were called and they said Here we are and they have shined to him with chearfulness that made them Of Holy Communion Because with thee there is propitiation and for thy Law I have expected thee O Lord. Ps 129.4 Consider Christ as our Propitiation Luc. 18.13 COnsider 1. That you are that Publican of whom it is read to day in the Gospel for by reason of your many sins you deserve not to lift up your eyes to Heaven but ought rather to knock your breast and to cry out continually with him O God be propitious to me a sinner Call to mind the sins of your life past and you will see how fitly that saying agreeth with you 1 Jo. 2.2 Consider 2. You have cause of great confidence in regard that after so many sins you have the Judges Son to stand for you and more then that have the Judge himself Christ our Lord your Propitiator For he is the Propitiation for our sins nor for ours only but for the whole worlds And although he be always and every where merciful yet never more then in the H. Eucharist where that he might be propitious unto us he would even be incorporated with us That which covered the Ark of the Covenant in the Old Law Exod. 25.20 was called the Propitiatory much more therefore is the Eucharist our Propitiatory having under it the Living Ark of the true Covenant between God and us Levit. 23.28 Consider 3. The Jews were forbidden to do any servile work upon the day of Propitiation No servile work shall you do in the time of this day because it is a day of Propitiation Sin is properly a servile work Amen Amen I say to you Jo. 8.34 that every one which committeth sin is the servant of sin saith our Lord Abstain therefore from sin even the least especially upon daies of Communion and with the Prophet say to our Lord when he cometh For thy Name O Lord Ps 24.11 thou wilt be propitious to my sin for it is much Of our Lords Prayer Mat. 6.9 c. Part 1. COnsider how Christ on the Mount like a great Master of a spiritual life among other things taught his Disciples also the manner of Prayer which because we use daily to the end we may do it with the greater fruit and spiritual gust it will be to good purpose to ponder each word apart Our Father which art in Heaven In the Old Testament God was ordinarily called the Lord in the New he is pleased to be called Father and that by his own Vassals He is Father 1. By Title of Creation 2. Of Conservation 3. Of Adoption See therefore that you prove a Child worthy of such a Father Besides it is said Our not mine alone that you should understand that all men are your Brethren and to be loved by you as such Who art in Heaven as in the Seat of Majesty though he is every where by his presence that you should raise your thoughts thither as to your Native Country flowing with all manner of riches and delights Is 6.3 Ps 113.9 Hallowed by thy Name This is that which we ought to seek in the first place to wit the honour and glory of God that he may be worshipped and loved of all and honoured by the Saintity of our lives Therefore stir up often these affections in your self say with the Seraphins Holy holy holy the Lord God of Hosts and with David Not to us O Lord not to us but to thy Name give the glory Apoc. 5.10 Thy Kingdom come That is let thy Kingdom come to us in this life by Grace in the other by Glory for God doth truly reign in the Just by Grace according to that Thou hast made us to our God a Kingdom See whether God or not rather the world reigâ—eth in your heart and affection Of our Lords Prayer Mat. 6.9 c. Part 2. COnsider the rest of the
profit and not to the outward shew Hieron ad Nepot Let your applause saith S. Hierom be your Auditors tears Of the Disciples return from Preaching Luc. 10.17 COnsider 1. How the Disciples being returned from Preaching and something touched with vain glory as the H. Fathers expound for having cast out Devils SS Greg. Hieron Cypr. apud Barad said Lord the Devils also are subject to us Whence you may see how surtle a vice vain glory is that insinuates it self even into the actions of the Apostles that you may so much the more beware of it your self Consider 2. Christs Reprehension I saw Sataâ— as a Lightning falling from Heaven as if he should say as Satan in the beginning fell down as Lightning from Heaven for his haughtiness and pride so do you take heed least being puffed up with vain glory you come to be involved in the same ruine that you may learn always to stand in fear and that no state or condition whatsoever even of Apostles or Angels is secure from falling Job 20.5 Consider 3. Rejoyce not in this that the Spirits are subject unto you but rejoyce in this that your names are written in Heaven True joy is found only in solid virtue and hopes of Eternal Life not in special favours or miraculous gifts which ought rather to cause in us fear and caution least we abuse them Learn therefore to seek content of mind only in heavenly things The joys of this world are but vain and counterfeited The joy of the Hypocrite that is of the deceitful world as it were for a moment saith Job Heavenly content alone is everlasting according to that Is 35.10 Everlasting joy shall be upon their head they shall obtain joy and gladness and sorrow and mourning shall fly away Of Holy Communion Lord thou wilt open my lips and and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise Ps 50.17 Mar. 7.31 Consider Christ as Giver of Hearing and Speech to your Soul Is 65.12 COnsider 1. What is read this day in the Gospel how Christ cured one that was Deaf and Dumb. Imagine your self to be such as truly you are in Spirit Think how deaf you are to Gods Voice and Inspirations often exciting you to Compunction Patience Humility and all manner of Perfection I called and you have not answered I spake and you have not heard Think also how dumb you are in speaking of God and divine matters whereas much fruit might come of such holy discourses both to your self and others You may truly say with the Prophet Jer. 1.6 I cannot speak because I am a child in matters of spirit Mar. 7.37 Consider 2. Christ will come to you to day in the Eucharist of whom it is said in the Gospel He hath made both the deaf to hear and the dumb to speak And if he did it then corporally much more will he do it now spiritually opening the ear of your heart so as to hear his voice and informing your tongue to speak of him to the edification of others according to that The Lord hath given me a learned tongue Is 50.4 that I may know to stay him up that is weary with a word c. In the morning he stirreth up mine ear that I may hear him as a Master c. O what a happiness Mar. 7.32 Consider 3. The preparation necessary for the receiving of these blessings is 1. Frequent Prayer for the Disciples to day besought him that be would impose his hand upon him 2. Retiredness from the noise and affairs of the world for he cured him not till he had taken him from the multitude apart 3. Humility Sap. 10.21 for Wisdom hath opened the mouth of the dumb and the tongues of Infants she hath made eloquent Be therefore an Infant without deceit and a little one in your own eyes that you may deserve of our Lord to be made eloquent to his glory Of S. Johns Message to Christ Mat. 11. Luc. 7. Part 1. Mat. 11.2 COnsider 1. When John had heard in Prison the works of Christ c. Ponder the admirable courage of this holy Precursor who did not stick publickly to reprehend the impious Marriage of the wicked King and chose rather to endure the hardship of Prison and suffer death it self then dissemble the truth much less to betray it Such ought to be all Apostolical men full of zeal in Gods Cause constant Upholders of the Right and such as know not how to yield either to threats or flatteries Consider 2. John being in prison sent two of his Disciples to demand of Christ Art thou he that art to come c. Not as if he any thing doubted of it himself but to the end the hearts of his Disciples might be confirmed in their Faith by their discourse with Christ So Charity seeketh all ways of helping others Do you rejoyce and give thanks that Christ hath been pleased long since to come among us and not held the world in longer suspence and expectation of his coming and for the infinite benefits and treasures we enjoy by means of his Incarnation Consider 3. Christs answer Go and report to John what you have heard and seen The blind see c. He doth not in open terms say that he is Christ to avoid even the least shew of boasting but proveth it by his works for as S. Bernard saith Bern. Serm. 55. in Cantic Louder is the sound of works then of words In like manner therefore you must shew your self to be a Christian Priest or Religious more by your works then by your words Prov. 31.31 Let her works saith the wise man praise her in the gates Besides seeing Christ so liberally bestowed corporal benefits making the blind to see the lame to walk and the like you have much more reason to hope for Spiritual gifts and favours at his hands Of S. Johns Message to Christ Mat. 11. Luc. 7. Part 2. Mat. 11.7 c. COnsider 1. S. Johns Disciples being gone our Lord began to commend their Master First for his constancy in Virtue that he was not like a Reed tossed with every wind and wavering on every side nor empty or void of pith and substance He was not a reed saith S. Gregory whom no alteration of things did ever make to bend S. Greg. Hom. 6. Evang. See whether you be not a Reed easily turned on every side by the least blast of mens mouths inconstant in your good purposes and without any pith of solid virtue Consider 2. He is commended for the austerity of his life and that he was not cloathed in soft garments c. that you might learn to shun all niceties and superfluities in meat drink and apparel if you desire to be approved of by Christ in the day of Judgment Lastly he is termed by Christ an Angel to wit both by Office and Purity of Life that you should do your utmost to imitate his
Angelical behaviour and incomparable Innocency of Life Consider 3. Upon this occasion Christ said The Kingdom of Heaven suffereth violence and the violent bear it away Think how true that was in S. John in the Martyrs and in all the Saints There are two sorts of Violence the one exteriour which curbs the flesh the other interiour which bridleth the inordinate appetites of the mind whereof this latter is the more excellent but both to be used wherefore S. Hierom with good reason did say So much shall you profit Hieron ap Rodrig p. 2. tr 1. c. 5 by how much you offer violence to your self See what and how much it is that you do in this point Of the Martyrdome of S. John Baptist Mat. 14. Marc 6. Marc. 6.22 Eccles 7.2 COnsider 1. Herod made the supper of his Birth-day to the Princes c. Worldly men place their felicity in the enjoyment of this mortal life which notwithstanding passeth away like a shadow On the contrary the Holy Ghost saith Better is the day of Death then the day of Nativity for that this bringeth us into this world and into innumerable miseries the other if we have lived well uniteth us with God himself Therefore have your eye always upon that and dispose your self to it in all your actions Pro. 23 2â— Consider 2. Among their Cups and Dances was demanded and granted the Head of a most innocent and holy man where you may learn what crimes Riot and Wantonness do beget whence the wise man saith Be not in the feasts of great drunkards Herod fell into this Precipice for that he would not hear S. John which word signifieth Grace Take heed therefore you do not expose your self to the same ruine by resisting Gods holy Grace and Inspirations Woe to thee that despisest Is 33.1 shalt not thy self also be despised Ps 115.6 Consider 3. S. John received the Sentence of Death with great joy and with as great constancy laid his Head on the Block whence he breathed forth his blessed Soul into the bosom of Abraham Precious in the sight of our Lord is the death of his Saints Beg that you may come to the like end whereby you will have a most secure and short passage to Heaven Offer your self often to God for Martyrdome Imitate the example of so many glorious Martyrs of your Country by the continual practise of Virtue and constancy in Faith and Religion Of five thousand fed in the Desart Mat. 14. Jo. 6. Mar. 6. Part 1. Mar. 6.34 COnsider 1. How a great multitude of people followed Christ into the Desart drawn by his Miracles and Doctrine He had compassion on them c. and he began to teach them many things He first giveth them spiritual food afterwards also corporal You must also retire into the Desart far from the noise of worldly cares if you desire to be regaled by our Lord Osce 2.14 I will lead her into the wilderness and I will speak to her heart saith our Lord of a faithful soul Observe also the Apostles care for the people saying Mat. 14.15 Dismiss the multitudes that going into the Towns they may buy themselves victuals Ibid. Consider 2. Christ having demanded of his Disciples what they had to set before the people they answered him We have not here but five loaves and two fishes This was all the provision of that Apostolical Family a few course loaves and two fishes although they were themselves Fishermen Moreover they promptly exhibit what they have without alledging their own want or scarcity that you might learn what you can to help others according to that Tob. 4.8 As thou shalt be able so be merciful Ps 67.4 Consider 3. The Order of the Miracle the loaves being brought Christ commanded the multitude to sit down upon the grass The Apostles minister himself looking up to heaven blessed the loaves and distributed them In the same manner ought you to look up to heaven before you eat that is to lift up your heart to the Giver of all good that you may not fall upon your meat as beasts do Therefore David Let the Just make merry and rejoyce in the sight of God Of five thousand fed in the Desart Mat. 14.20 c. Part 2. Ps 77.19 Deut. 32.13 COnsider 1. How the Loaves by Divine Power were multiplied in the Apostles hands so that although they were continually distributing yet still they found either in their hands or in the Baskets more to distribute the Angels as is probable secretly supplying new provision of loaves and fish In like manner formerly at the prayers of Elias neither Meal nor Oyl was wanting although the present provision was daily spent Who would not willingly serve so good and powerful a Lord who can prepare a Table in the Desart and is able to bring forth honey out of the Rock and Oyl out of the hardest stone Is 55.2 Consider 2. They did all eat and had their fill The delights of this world may please and content us for a while but cannot fill for the Souls capacity and appetite is greater then to be satisfied with such Trash Christ alone is able to give it full content wherefore he saith by the Prophet Why bestow you silver not for bread and your labour not for satiety Come therefore to him that you may be filled Pro. 19. 17 Consider 3. After all had eaten the Apostles gathered out of the leavings more then what they had given out to wit twelve full baskets of the fragments So God is wont to reward the Charity of his Servants and is liberal to the liberal He lendeth our Lord that hath mercy on the poor and he will repay him the like Give therefore to your Brother good measure and pressed down Luc. 6.38 and shaken together and running over that you may receive the like into your bosome Christ flyeth Jo. 6.14 not to be made King Ps 43.5 COnsider 1. Those men therefore when they had seen what a sign Jesus had done said that this is the Prophet c. They were astonished at the strangeness of the Miracle of feeding five thousand with so little provision and would therefore have made Christ their King Our Lord worketh daily a far greater Miracle in feeding the whole world bringing forth plentiful Harvests out of a few grains of Corn why therefore do we not make him King of our heart obeying him in all things Thou art the same my King and my God which commandest the salvations of Jacob said King David Consider 2. Jesus therefore when he knew that they would come to take him and make him King he fled again into the Mountain himself alone Soveraignty was due to Christ as being Son of God it was due also to his Merits and Bountifulness towards men but he would not accept of it and whensoever there was any Treaty about it he fled away and hid himself
How few are there that would do so now-a-days But Christ did it to reach us to fly honours as much as lieth in us and to affect humility and lowliness See how you are in this point and whether you do not rather seek after such things as bear a lustre and greatness in the eyes of the world or at least prefer your self before your Companions and Neighbours Mat. 14.23 Consider 3. What our Lord did on the Mountain He ascended saith S. Matthew into a Mountain alone to pray It was his uâ—ual custome to retire himself far off from the multitudes to pray and this for our example for he stood not in need of prayer for himself but was continually beholding the Face of God by the Beatifical Vision Imitate therefore this example of our Lord and endeavour to joyn the contemplative life with the active Eccli 18.22 Be not hindered saith Ecclesiasticus to pray always Of Holy Communion Our Lord shall bind up the wound of his people and shall heal the stroak of their wound Is 30.26 Consider Christ as the good Samaritan COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Gospel Luc. 10.30 Of a man who fell among Thieves that wounded him and of the Samaritan that bound up his wounds Consider how this man was Adam the Thieves the Devils who by Original Sin dispoiled him and us all in him of all grace and other free gifts and wounded him as Divines teach in his Natural Faculties in the Understanding by Ignorance in the Will by Malice in the Irascible Power by Weakness in the Concupiscible by unlawful Concupiscence and these are the four Wounds of our Nature S. Tho. 1.2 q. 85. ar 3. as S. Thomas teacheth Such therefore is your state and condition Zachar. 9.17 COnsider 2. The Pious Samaritan will come to you this day in the Holy Eucharist to bind your wounds and take care of you He will powre into your Soul Wine springing Virgins and the Oyl of his Mercy wherewith he doth comfort Sinners He will lay a Salve of his own Sacred Flesh to your wounds and unless you put a hinderance he will enlighten your Understanding like to the Honey by which Jonathas his eyes were illuminated 1 Reg. 14.27 Is 6.6 He will refine and rectifie your Will like to the burning hot Coal which cleansed the lips of Isait He will strengthen and enable you to endure hard things like to the Loaf that strengthened Elias Lastly 3 Reg. 19.8 he will temper the heat of Concupiscence like to the Manna which lay upon the ground Exod. 16.14 like unto the hoar frost Is 64.1 Consider 3. How much you ought to wish for that hour wherein this Samaritan is to come to you say with the Prophet Would God thou wouldest break the Heavens in sunder and wouldest descend and with that other Prophet Jer. 17.14 Heal me O Lord and I shall be healed save me and I shall be saved and above all be sure to entertain him with hearty love that cometh so lovingly to you Of Christs allaying the Tempest Mat. 8. Mar. 4. Luc. 8. Marc. 4.38 COnsider 1. Christ went with his Disciples into the Boat to pass over the Lake and while they were sailing he was in the hinder part of the Boat sleeping upon a Pillow Our Lord betakes himself to sleep though but for a while to shew himself subject to humane infirmities In the mean time there ariseth a Tempest the Boat is in danger the Disciples are troubled So Almighty God doth often permit us to be tossed with temptations and almost overwhelmed while he in the mean time in a manner sleepeth that is deferreth his peculiar assistance thereby to humble us and force us the more earnestly to implore his help Consider 2. The Disciples seeing themselves in danger came to him and raised him saying Lord save us Mat. 8.25 Marc. sup we perish And Master doth it not pertain to thee that we perish So ought we with a filial confidence to have recourse to our Lord in our temptations and to say with the Psalmist Arise why sleepest thou O Lord arise and expel us not to the end Ps 43.23 Observe moreover how our Lord being awakened reprehended his Disciples for their little confidence in him See whether he may not justly accuse you for the same Consider 3. How Christ rising up Mat. sup commanded the Winds and the Sea and there ensiled a great Calm So all Creatures even the Irrational obey their Creator Man alone is refractory to his Commands deaf and obstinate to his Councels and hard to be gained by any fair means Be sorry for having often been such and be sure to mend your self for the future Ps 94.9 And even to day if you shall hear his Voice harden not your heart Christ upon the Water Mat. 14.22 c. COnsider 1. Christ commanded his Disciples to go up into the Boat and to go before him over the water while he himself ascended into a Mountain alone to pray In the mean time there arose again a Tempest the Boat was tossed with waves Mar. 6.48 and they labouring in rowing Thus we are to suffer temptations over and over again wherein we must not neglect our selves but take the Oars in our hands use all our endeavours and betake our selves to prayer and the like Our Lord came to his Disciples at last walking upon the Sea to shew his Power He will also be at hand to assist us and be an helper in opportunities Ps 9.10 in tribulation Consider 2. The Disciples seeing our Lord walk upon the Sea said that it is a Ghost Mat. sup So many hold Christ for a Phantasm solid virtue for old Wives devotions interiour inspirations for the effects of a melanchollick humour Others on the contrary take their own Fantasies for Christ their Dreams for Revelations their Passions for Virtues Anger for Zeal and their own Private Interest for Gods greater Honour We must therefore avoid both Extremes and follow that counsel of the Apostle Believe not every spirit 1 Jo. 4.1 but prove the spirits if they be of God Consider 3. Those words of Christ It is I fear ye not Mat. sup It was a sufficient inducement to them of casting off all fear to hear him say It is I that is I who but a little before miraculously sed five thousand I who allayed the like Tempest by commanding the Winds and Sea and do now walk upon the waters c. Rejoyce for having so powerful a Helper and Refuge in your necessities Peter walketh upon the Waters Mat. 14.28 COnsider 1. The fervour of S. Peter who as soon as he understood it was our Lord was presently inflamed with an ardent desire of being with him saying Lord if it be thou bid me come to thee upon the Waters A true Lover knoweth not how to be separated from the Party he loveth and overcometh all
influence to all virtuous actions 4. It springeth up unto life everlasting raising up our thoughts unto it whose pledge it is Say therefore with the woman Lord give me this water that I may not thirst c. Of the Samaritan Womans Conversion Jo. 4.26 c. Part 2. COnsider 1. The wonderful goodness of Christ vouchsafing to manifest himself openly to a sinful woman saying I am he to wit the Messias that speak with thee Consider the efficacy of her Faith she presently went into the City leaving her Water-pot behind her to bring others of the City to the same Faith Come and see saith she a man that hath told me all things whatsoever I have done Such is the fervour of true zeal which bestirreth it self and seeketh every where whom it may gain to Christ If therefore you be enkindled with true zeal cast away the Pitcher of terrene affections and seek whom you may likewise inflame Consider 2. The Woman being gone the Disciples offered Christ to eat for it was that time of the day but he being intent upon the Conversion of the Samaritans whom he did expect refused saying Ibid. v. 34. My meat is to do the will of him that sent me to perfect his work that you may learn to prefer the Spiritual good of your Neighbour before your own corporal refection O that your meat and drink your delight and pleasure were only to do the will of your Heavenly Father Consider 3. How many of the Samaritans moved by the Womans speeches came and were converted and said to her That now not for thy saying do we believe for our selves have heard Ibid. v. 42. and do know that this is the Saviour of the world indeed Rejoyce that your Saviour was manifested to those men and wish that all the world may come to his knowledge and withall do your utmost endeavour to bring as many as may be unto him S. Greg. Hom. 6. in Evang. If you walk towards God saith S. Gregory procure not to come to him alone without company Of the Woman taken in Adultery Jo. 8.3 c. COnsider 1. The Pharisees seeking to intrap our Lord take occasion of his Meekness wherefore they bring unto him a Woman taken in Adultery with intent that if perhaps he should give his Sentence for her dismission he might be held for a Corrupter of the Law So the Devil layeth his Snares in that Virtue wherein we most excel the Zealous he endeavours to provoke to anger the Humble to dejection and pusillanimity the Meek to remissness and too much indulgence But there is no counsel against our Lord Pro. 21.30 Job 5.13 And Christ apprehendeth the wise in their subtilty Luc. 6.36 Consider 2. Jesus bowing himself down with his finger wrote in the earth so to decline his giving sentence which might breed contention Therefore the Apostle No man being a souldier to God intangleth himself with secular businesses 2 Tim. 2.4 He did it moreover to teach us that we ought to proceed warily and not with precipitation in such causes But they still urging him He lifted up himself and said to them He that is without sin of you let him first throw the stone at her Most wisely neither clearing nor yet condemning her but pricking their conscience and moving them to compunction for their own sins and commiseration for others Be ye merciful as also your Father is merciful Eccli 34.31 Consider 3. The Pharisees going away one by one the Woman remained alone repentant for her sin and probably with an interiour Faith expecting absolution thereof from Christ Our Lord therefore understanding by her that no body had condemned her Neither will I condemn thee saith he Go and now sin no more Observe and admire the Riches of our Lords Goodness Patience and Longanimity in bringing you and others to Penance O how often hath he said unto you Now sin no more and yet you have still gone on A man that fasteth in his sins and doing the same again what doth he profit in humbling himself Of the Cananean Woman Mat. 15. Mar. 7. COnsider 1. How a Woman of Canaan a Gentile came to our Lord to obtain the cure of her Daughter and see how well she prayeth 1. With a great Faith confessing him to be the Son of David 2. With profound Reverence for she fell down at his feet 3. With tender Charity Mar. 7.25 not begging for her self but for her Daughter 4. With great affection and instance for she cryed out after our Lord. 5. With admirable Constancy for she was often put off yet she still persisted in her Petition Such likewise ought to be your prayer Mat. 15.26 Consider 2. How Christ at first answered harshly unto her and seemingly cast her off like a dog saying It is not good to take the bread of the children and to cast it to the dogs so to exercise her virtue and crown her perseverance God doth often do the like with us because as S. Gregory saith He loveth to be entreated he is willing to be forced Greg. in Ps 6. Paenit and even desireth to be overcome by importunity Observe moreover the Womans Humility in not denying her self a Dog but requesting that which was proper to dogs to wit to eat of the crums of their Masters Table Let your prayer also be humble for the prayer of him that humbleth himself Eccli 35.19 shall penetrate the Clouds saith Ecclesiasticus and he will not depart till the Highest behold Mat. 15.28 Consider 3. Christ yielding at length to the Womans pious importunity first commendeth her Faith O Woman great is thy Faith then granteth what she asked Let it be done to thee as thou wilt Perhaps your Soul also like to the Womans Daughter is sore vexed with an evil Spirit He is sorely vexed who yieldeth to his troubles and temptations but he that overcometh them is vexed to his great benefit and Crown Beg therefore of our Lord strength and courage to resist and pray that as it was to this Woman so it may also be done to thee as thou wilt Of Holy Communion Love the Lord thy God and obey his voice and cleave to him for he is thy life and the length of thy daies Deut. 30.20 Aug. tr 47. in Joan. Consider Christ as the Life of your Soul COnsider 1. What is read to day in the Gospel how Christ raised a young man from death to life and that he is the true Life of your Soul according to that Jo. 11.25 I am the Resurrection and the Life he that believeth in me although he be dead shall live And as the body dieth saith S. Augustine when the soul is departed which is its life so the soul dieth when it loseth God by sin who is its life Ponder the benefit of Spiritual Life by comparing it with that of the body for what a dead carkass is in the eyes of men deformed loathsome
receive Christ under his Roof he had now lodged him in his Heart that you may also imitate him especially when you communicate Of curing the Centurions Servant Mat. 8. Luc. 7. Part 2. Luc. 7.8 COnsider 1. The rest of the Centurions discourse For I also am a man subject to Authority having under me Souldiers and I say to this go and he goeth and to an other come and be cometh and to my servant do this and he doth it As if he should say if I who am but an Under-Officer and under the command of my Captains yet can say to my servant do this and he doth it how much more will all creatures obey your Word An honourable confession of Christs Power Rejoyce that he is truly such and withall be confounded that servants perform stricter obedience to their Masters in things of this world then you perhaps do to God or your Superiours that are in his place Mat. 8.10 Consider 2. Christ having heard these words extolled the Faith of the Centurion being but a Gentile above the Israelites Amen I say to you I have not found so great Faith in Israel Whereupon he adjoyneth And I say to you that many shall come from the East and the West c. but the children of the Kingdom shall be cast out c. The children of the Kingdom of Heaven formerly were the Jews but now they are become Out-casts because they obey'd not Gods call and we are made the children of that Kingdom and after a special manner an Elect Generation and a Kingly Priesthood 1 Pet. 2.9 Let us therefore behave our selves worthy of such an honour Hold that which thou hast saith our Lord that no man take thy Crown Apoc. 3.11 Consider 3. How his Request was granted Go and as thou hast believed be it done to thee Mat. sup 13 for our Lord will do the will of them that fear him and will hear their prayer Ps 144.20 Perhaps you entertain in your Soul a Will or Affection that lieth sick of the Palsey that is seized upon with the Spirit of Sloth and Sluggishness Imitate therefore the fervour and humility of this Centurion and by means of your good Friends that is the Saints your holy Patrons beg remedy of our Lord but especially when you go to Communion use those words of the Centurion and with like Faith Lord I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof Luc. 7.6 Of the curing of S. Peters Mother-in-Law Mat. 9. Luc. 4. Mar. 1. Luc. 4.38 COnsider 1. Our Lord being entered into Peters house sound his Mother-in-Law lying sick of a strong Feaver but the Disciples besought him for her Observe the Apostles readiness to intercede for others and the efficacy of their Intercession for she was immediately cured We all of us have some Spiritual Feaver or other being set on fire by the allurements of divers unlawful desires Our Feaver saith S. Ambrose is Covetousness Ambr. l. 4. in Luc. c. 4. our Feaver is Lust our Feaver is Ambition c. See what you are most sick of and take the Apostles for your Intercessors that you may be cured Ps 148.5 Consider 2. The manner wherewith Christ delivered the sick person Standing over her he commanded the Feaver and it left her He did not drive it away with Medicines as the Physitians do but by Command alone to shew his Power and Divinity So at other times he commanded the Winds and Sea and the Devils and they obeyed him for as the members of our Body obey the Soul and move only at her will so all creatures obey God Rejoyce that you have so powerful a Lord He said and they were made he commanded and they were created Do you likewiâ—e procure to obey him in all things Pro. 31.17 Consider 3. S. Peters Mother-in-Law being cured Incontinent rising she ministred to them She pretended not weakness after her sickness nor desired to give her self any more to rest but presently betook her self to labour and pains like that valiant Woman in the Proverbs She hath girded her loyns with strength and hath strengthened her arm Wherefore it will prove an effect of your spiritual health to work fervently and to be ready for all charitable offices Of a Princes Son restored to health Jo. 4. c. Jo. 4.46 47. COnsider 1. There came unto Christ a certain Lord whose Son was sick at Capharnaum c. and desired him that he would come down and beal his Son for he began to die Observe how profitable corporal infirmities and afflictions are which force us to have recourse to God for unless the Son had fallen sick perhaps the Father had never been brought to the Faith of Christ So it is written of King Manasses while he was Captive that after he was in distress he prayed our Lord his God 2 Paral. 33.12 c. and Manasses knew that our Lord he was God Therefore take the like infirmities and afflictions as so many benefits and incitements to Virtue Their infirmities were multiplied saith David afterward they made hast Ps 15.4 Ps 43.5 Consider 2. Christs answer 1. He reprehendeth them that seek Miracles out of incredulity 2. He refuseth to go to the house where he was desired for that it is not sitting we should prescribe God the way and manner of succouring us 3. Yet he mercifully giveth recovery and health though absent the more to manifest his Power and to strengthen our Faith for he it is which commandeth the Salvations of Jacob. Learn hence not to seek Miracles Visions or extraordinary favours but to commit your self wholly to God as to the way and manner of helping you Beseech him that if you be not worthy that he come to your house in the Eucharist at least that he would send aid to thee from the holy place Ps 19.3 and from Sion defend thee Consider 3. The man believed the word that Jesus said to him and thereby received health both of body for his Son and of Soul for himself and his whole Family for himself believed and his whole Family so God heapeth favours upon favours Beseech him humbly to work also in you perfect health both of body and soul Of Holy Communion Let the King come to the banquet c. and to morrow I will open my will to the King Esth 5.8 Consider Christ as your Souls Guest Apoc. 3.20 COnsider 1. What is read this day in the Gospel how Christ entered into the house of a certain Pharisee upon the Sabboth to eat bread Luc. 14.1 He is also the Guest of our Souls and he will enter this day into the house of your soul in the Holy Eucharist to feast with you according to that If any man open to me the gate I will enter in to him and will sup with him and he with me Consider therefore attentively the Greatness and Majesty of this Guest and take
Grace in the Soul 3. As to the Body of Christ which is here in manner of a Spirit whole in the whole Host and whole in every part thereof it is the self-same in several places together Indivisible Impassible Indeficient and equally sufficient to one 3 Reg. 10.20 and to many Truly there was not such a work made in all Kingdoms Eccles 7.19 Consider 3. The necessary preparation for receiving this Miraculous Food is the fear of our Lord for he hath given meat to them that fear him And he that feareth God neglecteth nothing that is pleasing to him Do you therefore do the like Of some Historical Narrations and Parables of Christ Of the Rich Glutton Luc. 16.19 c. and of Lazarus Part 1. 2 Tim. 6.9 COnsider 1. There was a certain rich man and and he was cloathed with Purple and Silk and he fared every day magnifically Observe the Vices which commonly follow Riches Pride in Apparel Riot in Feasting Contempt of the Poor and the like that you may keep your self from the desire of them For they that will be made rich fall into tentation and the snare of the Devil Job 21.13 Consider 2. The rich man died and was buried in Hell How sad an Obit to so pleasant a life but such for the most part is the end of riches and pleasures They lead their lives in wealth and in a moment they go down to Hell Ponder here his torments for Purple and Silk he is invested with Flames for Delicious Fare he is tormented with Intollerable Thirst for his Contempt of the Poor he is now contemned by him and he that denied the Crums of his Table cannot obtain one drop of water Thus the punishments are proportioned to the offences Sap. 6.7 The Mighty saith the wise man shall mightily suffer torments 2 Tim. 3.12 Consider 3. The just Judgment of God The rich man is not heard in his Torments who neglected to do Mercy in his Jollities Therefore when he begged it was answered him Remember that thou didst receive good things in thy life time As if it were not lawful to receive good things here and there too and so it is For all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution Seek not therefore to enjoy prosperity in this life least you come to miss of it in the next Act. 14.21 For by many tribulations we must enter into the Kingdom of God Of the Rich Glutton and of Lazarus Luc. 16.20 c. Part 2. COnsider 1. There was a certain Beggar called Lazarus Christ vouchsafed to call the Beggar by his Name and make him known to Posterity but not the rich man Greg. Hom 40. for as S. Gregory saith Our Lord acknowledgeth and approveth the humble but the proud he knoweth not that you may learn to esteem Virtue more then worldly riches and splendour The memory of the Just saith the wise man Prov. 10.7 is with praises and the name of the Impious shall rot Consider 2. This Saints Patience whereby he arrived to such a degree of Sanctity He was 1. Full of sores patiently enduring the pain proceeding from them 2. Extreme poor desiring to be filled of the crums that fell from the rich mans table 3. Contemned by all And no man did give him 4. So miserable that he was fain to permit the dogs to lick his Sores and perhaps by reason of his weakness he was not able to keep them off Who is there now a-days that would prefer such an one before a rich man and yet this did Christ our Lord. Num. 23.10 Consider 3. The happy death of Lazarus who was immediately carried of the Angels into Abrahams Bosom Thus short are the tribulations of the Just but their glory is everlasting What joys riches and honours did sores poverty and contempt bring to this Beggar O let my Soul die the death of the Just and my last ends be made like to them Ponder how unequal were the lots of the rich man and of holy Lazarus after their death much more certainly then they were in their life time He was happy for a moment but everlastingly miserable this miserable indeed for a while but afterwards most happy for all Eternity Of the Prodigal Son Luc. 15.11 c. Part 1. Eccles 7.30 COnsider 1. A certain man had two Sons and the younger said to his Father Father give me the Portion of Substance that belongeth to me God hath two Sons the Just and the Sinner the Just is Elder because God made man right in the beginning and he always abideth in Gods House the Sinner estrangeth himself from him and abuseth the gifts which he affordeth him both of Nature and Grace living riotously that is perversly they go into a Forreign Country whosoever leave God who is the way Therefore David Ps 118.155 Salvation is far from sinners Consider 2. The Miserie 's this young man fell into when he was from his Father 1. He began to be in need So a sinner that estrangeth himself from the Sacraments from Exhortations and from the company and example of the good beginneth to be in want of spiritual sustenance 2. He cleaved to one of the Citizens as a servant for whosoever do sin give themselves over as Slaves to the Devil and he imployeth them in feeding Swine while he makes them like to that sort of Beasts swill themselves with sensual pleasures 3. Neither could he so fill his belly because even all worldly delights cannot satiate the Souls Appetite Js 28.19 Consider 3. Returning to himself he said c. Being pressed with Famine he cometh to himself because vexation alone shall give understanding to the sinner and makes him think how foolishly he hath left eternal things for such as quickly pass away How many of my Fathers hirelings have abundance of bread and I here perish for famine Hence he is moved to repentance I will arise and go to my Father O how often have you followed this Prodigal Child in going astray follow him therefore also in returning by Repentance Of the Prodigal Son Luc. 15.20 c. Part 2. COnsider 1. The Fathers Bowels of Mercy who when his Son was yet far off he saw him and was moved with mercy So Almighty God with the Eyes of his Mercy doth look upon a sinner being yet a far off from him by sin He invites him to him by his Exciting Grace saying Return c. and I will take you Jer. 3.14 And as soon as he returneth he meets him he falls about his neck he imbraces him he adorns him with the first Stole of Justice he puts on a ring upon his hand for the exercise of good works and shoes upon his feet to keep him from the dirt of worldly pleasures O God! is it possible you should bear such love to a man made of Clay and that hath deserved a thousand times the torments of Hell
himself The light of thy countenance Ps 4.7 O Lord is signed upon us Therefore as it is said to day in the Gospel give him this piece of Coyn whose Image and Superscription it beareth but let it be neat and cleansed from the filth of sin Rom. 8.29 and conformable to the Image of his Son to whose likeness it was made and then he will teach you all truth Jo. 16.13 Of the Talents Mat. 25. Luc. 19. Part 1. Mat. 25.14 COnsider 1. A man going into a strange Country called his servants and delivered them his goods God as the Universal Lord of all distributes his goods among men for whatsoever we have either in body or soul within or without us natural or supernatural all is Gods O man What hast thou that thou hast not received 1 Cor. 4.7 But God distributes his Talents or Gifts whether Natural or Supernatural more to one fewer to an other at his pleasure but he saith to all Occupy or negotiate till I come Luc. 19.13 that they may make their benefit of what they receive See how much you have received for your share that you may be the better able to give an account Mat. 25.16 Consider 2. The due use of these Talents He that had received the five Talents occupied with the same and gained other five Likewise also he that received the two gained other two Equal was the industry of both though in unequal Talents and therefore equal also was their reward because God as S. Hierom saith considereth not the greatness of the gain but our good will and endeavour S. Hieron in c. 25. Mat. Wherefore you also although you may think your self to have received few Talents in comparison of others notwithstanding may be equal to them in reward if you be equal with them to your proportion in the improvement of your stock Consider 3. The powerful Motive of reward to make us labour hard Because thou hast been faithful over a few things Mat. sup 21 I will place thee over many things enter into the Joy of thy Lord But what joy That which eye hath not seen nor ear hath beard 1 Cor. 2.9 c. A joy without any limit or measure and never to have any end or abatement Be you therefore faithful over that little which God hath bestowed upon you in Wit Judgment Science Health and the like imploying all to his glory that you may deserve to be placed over many things Of the Talents Mat. 25. Luc. 19. Part 2. Mat. 25.18 COnsider 1. He that had received the one Talent going his way digged ineo the earth and hid his Lords money So many seeing themselves not able to appear exteriourly in point of Science Virtue c. so much as others fall into despair give themselves over to the world and become slothful and careless in the service of God The slothful hideth his hand under the arm-hole Pro. 19.24 neither doth he put it to his mouth But such are called Fools by the Divine Spirit Eccles 4.5 A Fool foldeth his hands together c. saying Better is an handful with rest then both hands full with labour See whether perhaps you do not the same Ps 140.4 Consider 2. The slothful servants excuse Lord I know that thou art a hard man c. He makes a lye to excuse himself for our Lord is not hard but gentle and good to all The same do all slothful people making excuses in sins they fancy vain fears and dangers saying A Lion is in the way a Lioness in the journeys Pro. 26.13 Such often say I cannot whereas there wants not Power but Will. Have a special care of this slothful humour Consider 3. This servants doom Naughty and slothful servant c. take away the Talent from him c. And the unprofitable servant cast ye out into the utter darkness there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth He is not damned as S. Augustine observeth Because he lost the Talent Aug. Ser. 10 in Joan. but because he kept it without making gain Use therefore all your endeavour to imploy well the Talents which God hath bestowed upon you you cannot want imployment in what state or condition soever you live for your own Spiritual Advantage Gods Glory and your Neighbours good Of the Vineyard let our to Husbandmen Mat. 21. Mar. 12. Luc. 20. Part 1. Mat. 21.33 COnsider 1. A man there was an Housholder who planted a Vineyard and made a hedge round about it c. God hath planted a Vineyard his Universal Church and hath bestowed great care upon it First he hath made a hedge round about it fencing it with excellent Laws and Precepts and affording it the Protection of Angels against the Incursions of Wild Beasts the Devils Secondly He digged in it a Press Instituting the Sacraments wherein is contained the precious Blood of Christ strained out for us through the Press of the Cross and ever flowing for the Remission of our Sins Thirdly He built a Tower to watch in imploying his Divine Providence both to protect it from Evils and to provide it with all good How happy is it to be placed in such a Vineyard under such a Guardian Consider 2. Having thus appointed his Vineyard he let it out to Husbandmen that is to all men that each one should labour in it as to his part or share to wit his own Soul and such others as are committed to his charge which done he went forth into a strange Country because he maketh as if he were absent leaving us to our selves to work freely and at our own pleasure And although he could have fruit from us by force yet he expecteth with patience Who then would not admire and love so great a Goodness Consider 3. Almighty God to put these Husbandmen in mind of their duty sent them from time to time Patriarchs Prophets and Priests but all in vain Lastly he sent also his own Son but him likewise they kâ—lled Justly therefore he complaineth by his Prophet What is there that I ought to do more to my Vineyard Is 5.4 and have not done to it Whence with good reason it is â—aid The naughty men he will bring to naught Mat. sup 41 See that the same sentence may not also light upon you and procure to yield fruit answerable to the Tenure which you hold Of the Vineyard let out to Husbandmen Mat. 21. Mar. 12. Luc. 20. Part 2. Jer. 2.21 COnsider 1. The Vineyard is also the Soul of every Man and yours in particular which the Supreme Housholder hath furnished with Hedge Press and Tower that is with all necessaries both for your security and convenience of yielding fruit in all manner of virtue Look well into your self and you will find that you are an Elect Vineyard of which the Prophet speaketh so that it may be also said of you What is there that I ought
Behold two of them went the same day into a town c. They went therefore on the very day of the Resurrection to a neighbouring town or village and while they were discoursing together of our Lords Passion and of the reports and signes of his Resurrection Christ joyned himself with them that you might learn how grateful unto him are pious discourses especially of his Passion They knew not our Lord because they wavered in their Faith Wherefore if you will understand divine things you must firmly believe Is 7.9 Juxta Septuag for as Isaie saith If you will not believe you shall not understand God is often with us at hand and we take no notice of him Consider 2. How sweetly Christ did insinuat himself to his Disciples What are these communications that you conferr one with another Like a Physitian he searches the wound to apply his salve They answered Concerning Jesus of Nazareth who was a Man a Prophet mighty in work and word before God and all the People An honourable opinion of our Saviour Such ought to be all those that are imployed in gaining Soules joyning action to their words and exhortation and teaching first by example what they are to Preach by word of mouth Greg. l. 1. Ep. 24. For that speech doth more easily penetrate the hearts of the auditours which hath recommendation from the Oratours life as S. Gregory saith Mat. 11.12 Consider 3. Those words of Christ Ought not Christ to have suffered these things and so to enter into his glory to wit by his passion And what way will you enter that seek your own ease convenience and satisfaction in all things and can not endure to suffer in the least Think how little you have suffered hitherto in Gods cause and yet The Kingdom of Heaven suffereth violence and the violent beare it away Luc. 24.30 c. Our Lord appeareth to the Disciples c. Part 2. COnsider 1. How Christ walketh with his Disciples and explicateth unto them the mysteries of his Passion O how their hearts were inflamed by the divine fire which was so neer them So that with good reason they might afterwards say Was not our heart burâ—ing in us c. A signe therefore of Christs presence in a Soul is fervor if you be colde and without fervor Christ is not with you Prov. 8.31 Consider 2. How the Disciples being come to their journeys end invite Christ to take up with them He makes as if he had further to goe but they prevaile with him to stay In the same manner although he desireth nothing more then to be with us according to that My delights are to be with the Children of Men yet he loves to be intreated and in a manner forced to it by ernest Prayer So Jacob compelled the Angel I will not let thee goe unless thou bless me Gen. 22.26 Mat. 15.28 So likewise the Cananean Woman by still urging on after the first repulse obtained her Daughters care Author Imperf August Paulinus Beda theophilact hic Consider 3. Whiles he sate at the table with them he took bread and blessed and brake and did reach to them Whereupon Their eyes were opened and they knew him These signal actions and the singular effect of notifying Christ shew that it was a Sacramental entertainment as also the Holy Fathers doe generally teach The Souls of the faithful and worthy receivers are truly enlightened by the breaking of the Eucharistical bread and their eyes opened to see acknowledge and love the infinit goodness of the Author Christ having thus discovered himself presently disappeareth for he would not have us entertain our selves overlong even in spiritual consolations but betake our selves to our employments and therefore the Disciples rising up the same hour went back into Jerusalem and related with great joy what had happened Christ appeareth to his Disciples gathered together S. Thomas being absent Jo. 20.19 Part 1. Is. 66.11 COnsider 1. When it was late that day c. And the doores were shut Jesus came and stood in the middes c. This is the sixth apparition wherewith Christ was pleased to comfort his friends on the very day of his Resurrection That all might be filled of the brest of his consolation and flow with delights in all manner of his Glory But here he appeareth 1. Late in the evening that you should learn to expect our Lord with patience and Longanimity 2. He entered the dores being shut to shew the subtility wherewith his body now in glory was endowed Doe you in like manner shut the dores of your senses You must be a garden inclosed Cant. 4.12 a fountain sealed up if you desire to entertain Christ 3. He stood in the middle as a Shepheard amidst his flock as a Master among his disciples and as the Sun in the middle of the world Stand thus O Lord in the center of my Soul Feeding Teaching and Illuminating her Phil. 4.7 Consider 2. He saith to them Peace be to you He wisheth them not plenty of Riches nor Honours nor the like but Peace and this with God within themselves and among one another Learn to prize and purchase this peace before all worldly wealth and beseech our Lord That the Peace of God which passeth all understanding keep your heart and Intelligence in Christ Jesus Consider 3. To confirm them the more he asketh whether they have any thing to eate And they offered him a peece of fish broiled Luc. 24.42 and a hony comb and he did eate thereof Christ doth often ask of you some thing to eate For The Word of God as S. Ambrose saith feedeth upon the vertues of our Souls De bon Mor. c. 5. You are as a fish swimming in the main Sea of this world all wet and slabby with the vanities thereof Be therefore broyled with the fire of Charity and seasoned with the hony of Devotion that you may make up a dish fit for our Lords table Jo. sup Christ appeareth to his Disciples gathered together c. Part 2. COnsider 1. How after he had eaten he ordained his Disciples as Missionants Doctors and Pastors of his flock but first repeateth Peace be unto you to shew how necessary Peace and union is among themselves in Apostolical men As my father hath sent me I also doe send you That is with the same authority that my father sent me I also send you and as my father sent me into the world not to seek my ease and pleasure but to take paines and suffer afflictions after the same manner I send you that you may learn hence what things Apostolical men ought to be lovers of Consider 2. When he had said this he breathed and he said to them Receive ye the Holy Ghost Our Lord could have given it without breathing on them but he would use this Ceremony that you might learn to reverence the like ceremonies of the Holy Church for likewise