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 ten Virgins.* 1.1 Part 2.

* 1.2COnsider 1. Then arose all those Virgins, and they trimmed their Lamps, &c. At the news of death, every one commonly bestirreth himself, but they that have led ill lives, find not the Oyl of Cha∣rity in their Vessels; neither will there often be time then to go to the Priests, and to buy it with works of Penance: They will return at evening (saith David) and they shall suffer famine as dogs; for then they shall be denied that Spiritual Food, which they neglected in their life time;* 1.3 Therefore whiles we have time, let us work good.

* 1.4Consider 2. They that were ready entred with him to the Marriage. Ponder of what importance it is to be ready at that hour, whereon dependeth Eter∣nity: They entred, but with what joy, and con∣gratulating with one another? Everlasting Joy shall be upon their head; they shall obtain joy, and gladness,

and sorrow, and mourning, shall fly away. Their Lamp there shall shine a hundred fold, from the Rays of brightness that proceeds from the Bride∣grooms Countenance, and shall send forth flames of most sincere Charity; without danger of being ever extinguished: Who would not wish to enter in their company?

* 1.5Consider 3. Last of all come also the other Vir∣gins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. They knocked with bare words, not with deeds; therefore they were not let in: For, Not every one that saith to me, Lord, Lord, &c. but he that doth the will of my Fa∣ther, &c. he shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. Knock therefore with good works, and that while you have time, that you may be let in: Terrible are those words, I know you not. Take heed therefore they may never come to be spoken to you.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Mat. 25.7. &c.
• * 1.2

  Ps. 58.7.
• * 1.3

  Gal. 6.10.
• * 1.4

  Is. 35.10.
• * 1.5

  Mat. 7.21.