A journal of meditations for every day in the year gathered out of divers authors / written first in Latine by N.B. ; and newly translated into English by E.M. in ... 1669.

Of the Bed-rid let down from the Roof.* 1.1 Part 1.

* 1.2COnsider 1. There were gathered together a great multitude, to hear Christ in the house where he was, so that there was no place, no not at the door, and he spake to them the Word. Observe our Lords indefatigable Zeal of gaining Souls, not sparing himself at any time, or place, but freely admitting and instructing all, even with open doors, that you might learn to bestow your self,* 1.3 and to be bestowed again, with the Apostle, for the souls of your Brethren.

* 1.4Consider 2. And behold, men carrying in a bed a man that had the Palsey, &c. and not finding on which side they might bring him in, for the multitude, they went up upon the Roof, and through the Tiles let him down, with the bed, in the midst before Jesus. Admire their Faith, whereby they undoubtedly be∣lieved that Christ would cure him; so that they refused no pains to bring him to him. Observe moreover their courage and resolution, in not yield∣ing

to the difficulties that hindered their free ac∣cess, but breaking their way through all, so that they accomplished their desire.* 1.5 A true firm belief (saith S. Bonaventure) is not brought back, or cooled by impediments, but inflamed. See how you are in like occasions, and how easily you leave off, for fear.

Consider 3. The Mercy of Christ, saying; Son, thy sins are forgiven thee.* 1.6 O wonderful Humility (saith S. Hierom) a decrepid, and despicable poor man be calleth Son, whom the Priests vouchsafed not to touch. Observe how he remitteth his sins, which were cause of his infirmity, to teach you, that diseases are inflicted also for hidden sins, and that when you are sick, you must first seek your Souls cure, then that of your body.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Mat. 9. Mar. 2. Luc. 5.
• * 1.2

  Mar. 2.2.
• * 1.3

  2 Cor. 12.15.
• * 1.4

  Luc. 5.18.
• * 1.5

  Bonav. in Luc. 5.
• * 1.6

  Mat. 9.3. Hieron. in c. 9. Mat.