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.

A Table of the Sundays throughout the Year.

1. SUnday of Advent. Of the latter Judgment, Luke 21. vers. 25. Page 42. see page 33, 34, 35, 36. also page 31, 32. of particular Judg∣ment.

2. Sunday of Advent. Of S. Johns Message to Christ, Mat. 11.2. Page 50. see page 358, 359, 360.

3. Sunday of Advent. Of the Jews Message to S. John, Jo. 1.19. Page 58. see Page 300, 301, 302.

4. Sunday of Advent. Of S. Johns first preach∣ing in the Desart, Luk. 3.1.

* 1.1In the fifteenth year of Tibetius Cesar, &c. the word of our Lord was made upon John the son of Za∣chary in the Desart. Consider 1. How S. Johns and our Lords Preaching took their beginning from the Desart; that you should love holy Solitude, and re∣tiredness, as the fittest disposition to receive Gods Inspirations; I will lead her (the Soul) into the wilderness, and will speak to her heart. Think where are now those great ones who are mentioned in this Gospel; the Roman Emperour, and Presi∣dent, the Tetrarchs, and High Priests; they are all gone, and their memory is kept here, not for their own sakes, but to evidence to the world the In∣carnation and Passion of our Lord, of which they were remarkable Witnesses, and Actors. Admire not therefore, nor regard the greatness and prosperity of such in this life, but rather think what all will

come to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 last;* 1.2 The name of the Impious shall 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

* 1.3Consider 2. He preached the Baptism of Penance unto remission of sins; that is, preparing mens hearts to receive the same afterwards by the Faith and Bap∣tism of Christ. Think how important a thing Pe∣nance is 〈◊〉〈◊〉. For that it was the principal subject of S. Johns, of Christs, and his Apostles preathing; all crying out to their Auditors, Do Penance. 2. Be∣cause we are all sinners, and stand in need of Pe∣nance: If we shall say that we have no sin,* 1.4 we seduce our selues. 3. For that as Christ saith, Vnless you have penance,* 1.5 you shall all perish. See you also do penance, and yield fruits worthy of penance, that is, satisfactory works, amendment of life, &c.

* 1.6Consider 3. Prepare the way of our Lord, make straight his paths; Every Valley shall be filled, and every Mountain and Hill shall be made low, and crooked things shall become straight, and rough ways plain. Our preparation therefore against the com∣ing of Christ must be 1. By levelling the Moun∣tains which Pride and Vanity hath raised in out heart. 2. By filling up the empty Valleys of sloth∣fulness and pusillanimity. 3. By rectifying our crooked intentions. 4. By correcting the roughness of Anger, Hatred, Envy, and other passions, so as to become of an even temper, and agreeable con∣versation with all. Think lastly, what a happiness is promised us in those words, And all flesh shall see the salvation of God, that is, Christ Jesus, who is made unto us Wisdom from God, and Justice, Sancti∣fication, and Redemption.

Sunday within the Octave of the Nativity. Of what passed with Simeon, Anna, &c. Luc. 2.33. see page 104, 105, 106, 107.

Sunday within the Octave of Epiphany. Of our Lords going up to the Temple, &c. Luc. 2.42. page 118, &c. to the page 124. see page 125, 126.

2. Sunday after Epiphany. Of the Marriage in Galilee, Jo. 2.1. page 99. see page 328, 329, 330, 331.

3. Sunday after Epiphany. Of the Leper and the Centurions servant, Mat. 8.1. page 108. see page 405, 406. and again 391, 392, 393.

4. Sunday after Epiph. Of allaying the Tempest at Sea, Mat. 8.23. page 117. see page 336.

5. Sunday after Epiph. Of the good Seed and the Cockle, Mat. 13.24. page 124. see page 453, 454.

6. Sunday after Epiph. Of the Mustard-seed, Mat. 13.31. page 132. see page 454, 455.

Septuagesm Sunday. Of the Workmen sent into the Vineyard, Mat. 20.1. page 136. see page 336, 337, 338.

Sexagesm Sunday. Of the Sower, Luc. 8.4. page 143. see page 452, 453.

Quinquagesm Sunday. Of Christs foretelling his Passion, and of the blind man, Luc. 18.31. page 152. see page 145. and again 415, 416.

1. Sunday of Lent. Of Christs Temptations in the Desart, Mat. 4.1. page 161. see from page 305. to page 312.

2. Sunday of Lent. Of our Lords Transfigurati∣on, Mat. 17.1. page 170. see from page 373. to page 377.

3. Sunday of Lent. Of the Dumb Devil, Luc. 11.14. page 179.

Consider 1. Christ having cast out a dumb De∣vil, certain of them said, In Beelzebub the Prince of Devils he casteth out Devils. Observe here the good∣ness of God on the one side, in doing good to men, and turning out Devils; and the perversness of men on the other, in calumniating the good, and ascribing it to the Devil. Ponder Christs an∣swer, Every Kingdom divided against it self, shall

be made desolate. Think how your heart is divided, The flesh lusting against the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh;* 1.7 and see you bring this in persect subjecti∣on to the spirit. Beg of Christ that in the spirit of God he would cast out Devils, that is, all sin, out of your heart, that the Kingdom of God may come upon you.

Consider 2. What Christ saith, That when the unclean spirit shall depart out of a man, &c. he goeth, and taketh seven other spirits worse then himself, and entring in, they dwell there: And the last of that man be made worse then the first. Doth not the same hap∣pen to most men after Baptism by the seven deadly sins, which they give way unto? Doth it not also happen sometimes after a Conversion from the World, that some return back far worse then ever they were before? See therefore you keep the Gates of your Senses well shut against the Devil, and all sin; but be sure, what ever you do, you let not ei∣ther dwell in your heart.

Consider 3. The special Blessings attributed to the Sacred Virgin in this Gospel; the one tempo∣ral, and relating to flesh and blood; of which a certain woman lifting up her voice out of the multi∣tude, said to him, Blessed is the Womb that bare thee, and the Paps that thou didst suck: The o∣ther purely spiritual, of which Christ pronounced, chiefly in relation to his Blessed Mother, Yea ra∣ther, blessed are they that hear the Word of God, and keep it. The first was a singular priviledge of the Virgin alone; the other, though hers also after a more special manner, is common to many, and may be yours if you will your self: Admire and ex∣tol that, with the Woman, and with the Church, that useth the same words to the Virgin, and make this other your own by imitation.

4. Sunday of Lent. Of five thousand fed in the

Desart, Jo. 6.1. page 187. see page 362, 363.

Passion Sunday. Of Christs arguing with the Jews, Jo. 8.46. page 195.

Consider 1. Christ by reason of the Beatifical Vision, and hypostatical Union, was most holy, and irreprehensible in himself, and irrefragable in his Doctrine; and by these two Titles of Sanctity and Veracity, deservedly claims belief of his Doctrine and Authority of rebuking sinners, saying, Which of you shall argue me of sin? If I say the Verity, why do you not believe me? O that you could make the like challenge! Think whether you do practi∣cally believe Christs Doctrine, as to matters of Virtue and Perfection; and whether you do wil∣lingly hear the Word of God, and his holy Inspi∣rations, delivered unto you in Sermons, Exhortati∣ons, Pious Books, &c. and know, that as he that is of God, heareth the Word of God; so he that hears not, is not of God.

* 1.8Consider 2. The Jews having said, Thou art a Samaritan, and hast a Devil, Christ silently beareth the first, as a private injury relating only to his per∣son, as he was Man; but modestly denieth the o∣ther, wherein was highly concern'd his Fathers, and his own Divine Honor, saying, I have no Devil; but I do honour my Father. Well therefore might he say, I seek not my own glory; there is that seeketh, and judgeth. Think how contrary you are in this point to Christ: Seek in all your actions the greater glo∣ry of God, and God will honour you: Whosoever shall glorifie me, I will glorifie him. Seek not re∣venge in affronts and injuries, but commit your cause to God, who saith, Revenge to me, I will re∣pay.* 1.9

Consider 3, Amen, Amen, I say to you, if any one keep my word, he shall not see death for ever. What greater happiness and security can there be then

this? And yet how few are there that are concerned for it? How many that regard the Maximes, and say∣ings of the world, more then they do the Divine Words, Councels, and Promises of Christ? But see that you stick to Christ, and say with S. Peter; Lord,* 1.10 to whom shall we go, thou hast the words of Eternal Life. Remember and ponder well what Christ himself said;* 1.11 Not in bread alone doth man live, but in every word that proceedeth from the mouth of God.

Palm-Sunday. Of Christs entrance into Jerusa∣lem, Mat. 21.1. page 204. see page 146.

Easter Sunday. Of the Apparition made to the Women, Marc. 16.1. page 215. see page 219.

Low-Sunday. Of Christs Apparition to his Dis∣ciples, S. Thomas being present, Jo. 20.19. page 224. see page 228, 229, 230, 231.

2. Sunday after Easter. Of the good Pastor, Jo. 10.11. page 233.

Consider 1. I am the good Pastor; the good Pa∣stor giveth his life for his sheep: All that have care of others, are Pastors; Superiours of their Sub∣jects, Parents of their Children, House-keepers of their Family, &c. and every one of his own Powers, Senses, Members, &c. We are good Pa∣stors, when we rule, govern, and maintain those that are under us, with Counsel, Example, food cor∣poral and spiritual: We are good sheep, when we are innocent, tractable, obedient, patient, &c. We lay down our lives, when in opposition to the Wolves, the World, the Flesh, and the Devil, we deny our own wills and judgments, refrain our sen∣ses, and chuse rather to die, then to offend God mortally in any of them.

Consider 2. But the Hireling, &c. seeth the Wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and flieth: We are Hirelings, 1. When in out good actions, as Pray∣ers.

Sermons, &c. we seek not Gods-honour, but vain glory, and esteem of the world. 2. When at the Wolfs appearance, by some temptation of the Flesh, or the World, we make no resistance, nor chastise our body with Mortification, but fly all Pe∣nance, and by too much indulgence give our sheep over to be devoured by their Enemies; whereby we come both to lose our sheep, and title of Shep∣herds and Masters, and to fall into the miserable condition of Slaves;* 1.12 for every one which committeth sin, is the servant, or slave, of sin.

* 1.13Consider 3. I know mine, and mine know me. It is the property of good sheep, and Shepherd, to know one another: Make it therefore your busi∣ness, 1. As a good sheep, to know your Pastor from your Enemy, to understand the Voice of God by his Church, and your Superiours, to hearken to his Inspirations, to obey his Counsels and Commands, to acknowledge, and love his goodness and mercy towards you. 2. As a good Pastor, rightly to un∣derstand your self, to know your own weakness, in∣firmities, and imperfections; to have an eye upon your interiour powers, to over-see, and rule your exteriour senses; say with S. Augustine, Lord, that I may know thee, and know my self.

3. Sunday after Easter. Christ comforteth his Disciples, Jo. 16.16. page 242.

Consider 1. A little while, and now you shall not see me, being taken from you by my Passion, and Death; And again, a little while, and you shall see me, in my Resurrection, though but for a little while, because I go to the Father: Christ here min∣gleth sorrow with joys; but first sorrow, then joys; contrariwise, the World first proposeth joys, plea∣sures, and content, but at last bringeth all to sor∣row and misery: Amen, Amen, I say unto you, that you shall weep and lament, but the world shall re∣joyce.

Observe the different lot of Christs, and the Worlds Disciples, in this life, and chuse which you will have to be yours; but know withall, that your sorrow shall be turned into joy.

Consider 2. Christ compareth the Apostles joy for his Resurrection, after their sorrow for his Passion (the same is of the happiness of the next life, after the labours of this) to the joy of a Wo∣man after the travel of Childbirth; because both these griefs are bitter, both short, both full of dan∣ger, and are afterwards both turned into joy suit∣able to their sorrows, and as there, so here, the cause of pain is also cause of comfort: A woman when she travelleth hath sorrow, because her hour is come; but when she hath brought forth the child, now she remembreth not the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. Reflect upon each particular.

* 1.14Consider 3. What followeth: I will see you a∣gain, and your heart shall rejoyce, and your joy no man shall take from you. Thus our tribulation, which at present is momentary and light, worketh above mea∣sure exceedingly an eternal weight of glory in us: On the contrary, the Worldlings for the short and mo∣mentary delight which they enjoyed in this life, are punished with everlasting torments in the next; whence Job said of them, They lead their lives in wealth,* 1.15 and jollity, and in a moment they go down to Hell. Imprint in your memory those words of Abra∣ham to the Rich Glutton; Remember that thou didst receive good things in thy life time,* 1.16 and Lazarus like∣wise evil, but now he is comforted, and thou tor∣mented.

4. Sunday after Easter. Christ treateth of his go∣ing, and sending the Holy Ghost, Jo. 16.5. page 250.

Consider 1. I go to him that sent me, &c. It is expedient for you that I go: It was also expedient for

him, so to take possession of his Glory; but un∣mindful of his own, he is concerned for our good. O that you were so for his honour! If I go not, the Paraclet shall not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. The love which the Apostles are to Christ was mixed with some humane affection; wherefore to refine this, and make it purely spiritu∣al, it was necessary he should substract himself from them: If the affection to Christs Sacred Hu∣manity was a hinderance to the receiving of the Divine Spirit, how much more the affection to o∣ther flesh and blood, though in spiritual and holy persons?

Consider 2. And when he is come, he shall argue the world of sin, and of justice, and of judgment: The Holy Ghost doth argue the world of sin (saith S. Bernard) because it dissembles; of justice,* 1.17 which it doth not rightly order, while it attributes the same to man, not to God; of judgment, which it usurps, while it judgeth rashly, not only of it self, but of others too. Think what the Divine Spirit may argue you of; bring your actions to light, and be not of the number of those that do ill,* 1.18 and come not to the light, that their works may not be controuled; know that if we did judge our selves,* 1.19 we should not be judged.

Consider 3. When he, the spirit of truth cometh, he shall teach you all truth. This is a promise made to the Church: He shall not speak of himself, that is, not only of himself, but also from the Father, and the Son, from whom he proceedeth, and from whom he is sent, but what things soever he shall hear from them, he shall speak: Think how well grounded the Faith is which you have from the Church, the Church from the Divine Spirit, the Spirit from Christ, Christ from the Eternal Fa∣ther: He shall glorifie me, because he shall receive of

mine, and shall shew to you; confirming to them the Doctrine of Christ, perfecting their Under∣standing, opening the sense of Scriptures, &c. Rejoyce and be grateful for so great benefits be∣stowed upon the Church for your good.

5. Sunday after Easter. Christ recommendeth Prayer to his Disciples, Jo. 16.23. page 258, 259, 260, 261, 262.

Ascension day. Of the Mystery, Marc. 16.14. page 263, 264, 265, 266.

Sunday in the Octave. Of the H. Ghost, and of the Apostles Persecutions, Jo. 15.26, 27. and 16.1. &c. page 266.

* 1.20Consider 1. When the Paraclet cometh, whom I will send from the Father, the spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall give testimony of me. Christ to raise in his Disciples a desire and love of the Divine Spirit, doth speak much of him, at his departure; and here he acquaints them with two chief properties: 1. That he is a Paraclet, that is, Comforter; for he it is, that comforteth us in all our tribulvtion; and the Church calleth him, The b••st Comforter,* 1.21 and the sweet Guest of our Soul; be∣ing indeed a sweet refreshment, tempering the heats of our concupiscences, and passions; Rest and ease to us in our labours, solace and comfort in our tears, and afflictions. Invite this Divine Comforter to your heart, and refuse all other comfort and satisfa∣ction from creatures.

* 1.22Consider 2. The other property of being the spirit of truth. 1. For that he proceeds from the Son, who is the Wisdom of his Father, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. 2. Because he is sent to ma∣nifest the truth of Christs Doctrine, of his being the true Messias, Son of God, and Saviour of the World. 3. For that he giveth testimony of the New Testament, which is of Truth it self, whereof the

Old Testament was but a shadow. 4. For that he is the Author of all truth; And you shall give testi∣mony. Ponder here the infinite Dignity of the A∣postles, and of their Successors, the Priests of Gods Church, in that they are joyned in testimony of Christs Deity, and of all the other Mysteries of Faith, even with the Holy Ghost himself: Admire, reverence, and defend this Divine Authority of the Church.

Consider 3. Christ forewarns his Disciples of their persecutions. 1. That they be not scandalized, troubled, or disheartened, when they happen. 2. That they should know what they were to trust to, and what they were called for, and that they might not think them to fall out by chance, &c. 3. That they might prepare, and arm themselves a∣gainst them with Patience and Fortitude. 4. That when the hour shall come, they might have the comfort to remember that he told them: Out of the Synagogues th••y will cast you: And every one which killeth you, shall think that he doth service to God. Think whe∣ther you would be content to be an Outcast, con∣temned and despised by men, and even to suffer death for Christ.

Whitsunday. Of the Mystery, Gospel, Jo. 14.23. page 273. &c. to page 279.

Trinity Sunday. Christ Commissioneth his Dis∣ciples to Baptize in the Name of the B. Trinity, Mat. 28.18. page 280, 281, 282, 283. which are of the Mystery.

Consider 1. All power is given to me in Heaven and Earth: Christ had this Power: 1. As God, from all Eternity. 2. As Man, in the very instant of his Incarnation, by right of the Hypostatical U∣nion. 3. Through the Merit of his Passion and Death, as to the perfect use and exercise of it. Hence it followeth, that we have a Triple Obliga∣tion

of serving him. 1. As our God, by his Deity. 2. As the Sovereign Lord, and Head of all Man∣kind, by his Incarnation. 3. As our Saviour and Re∣deemer, by his Death and Passion: He hath exer∣cised his Power to the full for your good: See that you fulfill your duty in serving him.

Consider 2. Going therefore teach ye all Nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. By virtue of his Di∣vine Power he doth Authorize and Commission his Disciples. 1. To go and teach what he had taught them. 2. To Baptize them in the Name of the B. Trinity, that by the benefit of Baptism, they might obtain Divine Faith, Remission of their sins, Grace, and Everlasting Glory. 3. To deliver unto them Christs new Law, Precepts, and Councels, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.

Consider 3. And behold I am with you all daies, even to the consummation of the world: Christ is with us: 1. As God, by his Immensity. 2. As God and Man, by his Presence in the H. Eucharist. 3. By Habitual and Actual Grace, enabling us to act Su∣pernaturally, in order to our End. 4. By a special Providence, governing and directing every one to∣wards the attaining to the perfection of their Vo∣cation. 5. After a special manner he is with the whole Church, and principle Members thereof, as∣sisting them with his Divine Wisdom, and Veracity, in their Councels, and Definitions, Interpretation of Scriptures, and Government; and arming them with his Omnipotent Power against Persecutions, Heresie, and Infidelity; so that the Gates of Hell shall not be able to prevail against them. Be grate∣ful for these benefits, and endeavour to be always present with him in mind and affection.

On the same day, as being the 1. Sunday after Pen∣tecost,

the Gospel is chiefly of Mercy, Luc. 6.36. for which see page 344.

Corpus Christi day. Of the Mystery, Jo. 6.55. page 284, 285, 286, 287.

Sunday in the Octave of Corp. Chr. Of the great Supper, Luc. 14.16. page 288. &c. to the page 296. see page 439, 440.

3. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the lost sheep, Luc. 15.1. page 296. see page 459.

4. Sunday after Pentecost. Christ teacheth, &c. out of Peters Ship, Luc. 5.1. page 304.

Consider 1. The multitudes pressing, our Lord went up into Peters Ship; and that being brought back a little from the Land, sitting, be taught the multitudes from the ship. Ponder with what fer∣vour the people did run to hear the Word of God; be ashamed of your own dulness herein, and ea∣gerness of hearing Toys, News, and Reports of the World: Christ teacheth from Peters Boat, from which we are all to take the Word of God, our Faith, and the hopes of our Salvation, out of which there is none. Observe how the Boat was brought from the Land, to teach us, that the Preachers Life and Doctrine must not be worldly, but Coelestial.

Consider 2. As he ceased to speak, he said to Si∣mon, Launch forth into the deep, and let loose your Nets to make a draught. It is Christ that moves our heart in Sermons, but 'tis our part to co-operate, to launch forth into the deep, by proceeding always forwards, and raising our intentions and desires to heavenly things, and to loose our Nets by a forward∣ness, and endeavour of profiting upon all occasi∣ons: Peter answered, Labouring all night, we have taken nothing: Such are the fruits of worldly cares and labours; and in the Night of Sin nothing is gained in order to Eternal Life: We must there∣fore loose our Nets in Christs Name, and upon his

Word, by a sincere intention of serving and obey∣ing him.

Consider 3. And when they had done this, they in∣closed a very great multitude of Fishes, and their Net was broken: Whereupon Peter fell down at Jesus ka••e••, saving, Go forth from me, for I am a sinful man. Ponder here: 1. Peter lendeth Christ his empty Boat, and receives it full of Fish, and is well enough contented to have his Net broken in so profitable a service: So ought we, in temporal los∣ses, that are accompanied with great spiritual gains. 2. Peter out of Humility falleth upon his knees, and is made the Fisher of men? From this time thou shalt be taking men. 3. Upon the same account he willeth Christ to go from him, and thereby came the nearer unto him; for leaving all things, they fol∣lowed him. Ponder each particular, and gather some∣thing for your own profit.

5. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the observance of the Law, Mat. 5.21. page 312.

Consider 1. Vales•• your Justice abound more then that of the Scribes and Pharisees, you shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. The Pharisees did of∣ten fast, they prayed much in the Temple, and in the Streets, they gave the Tythes of what they had, they gave God thanks for his benefits, they carried the Law about them, in the Hem of their Gar∣ments, &c. Do you do as much? Yet all this was nothing but an outward shew of Virtue, and only ceremonious observances of their own: The Justice of a Christian must be internal, and real, consisting in a pure intention of Gods Honour in all things, in the exercise of Christian Virtue, chiefly of Cha∣rity, Patience, Humility, &c. in subduing our Pas∣sions, evil Inclinations and Affections, and the like.

Consider 2. It was said to them of old, thou shalt not kill, &c. But I say to you, that whosoever is

angry with his Brother, shall be in danger of judg∣ment, &c. Ponder the Excellency of the New Law above the Old. 1. That, which was given to a dull and earthly people, prohibited only gross things; this forbiddeth even little imperfections. 2. That went no further then the outward appearance; this passeth to the interiour affections of the mind. 3. That proposed no other then temporal reward; this everlasting. Think what perfection God re∣quireth of you, according to your Calling, and be su e you come not behind the Pharisees, upon peril of your Salvation.

* 1.23Consider 3. And imprint in your heart and me∣mory those words of Christ: If thou offer thy gift at the Altar, and there thou remember that thy Brother hath ought against thee, leave there thy Offering before the Altar, and go first to be reconciled to thy Brother. Fraternal Charity is so necessary, that no Sacrifice, nor Divine Worship, can be acceptable to God without it; and if this in the Old Law, how much more in the New? and in the Sacrifice of Mass, and Communion of the H. Eucharist? which is the Sacrament of Union; for we are one body, all that participate of one bread. Observe how God vouchsafeth to accept of our poor duties as offerings and gifts, whereas they are indeed his own gifts, and bringing no good to him from us.

6. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the seven Loaves, Marc. 8.1. page 320.

Consider 1. Jesus calling his Discipees together, he saith to them, I have compassion upon the multitude, because loe three daies now they endure with me, nei∣ther have they what to eat; And if I dismiss them fasting into their home, they will faint in the way. This is a perfect Embleme of our condition in this world, where, even at the best, we are an object of compassion: The World is a Desart, an habi∣tation

of wild beasts, and void of all good, having nothing whereon our Immortal Soul can feed, and satiate it self; we are a far off from our heavenly Country, and ready to saint, and fail in our way home; happy only in this, if we keep company with Jesus, and can be content to endure with him.

Consider 2. Christs infinite goodness: 1. In having compassion of their condition. 2. In con∣sulting with his Disciples for Redress. 3. In ma∣king the multitudes sit down upon the ground. 4. In distributing amongst them that little provision which he had for himself, and his Disciples; all which he did, giving thanks, breaking the loaves, blessing the fish, and giving them to his Disciples. Ap∣ply this also spiritually, and acknowledge in the fish, and seven loaves, the Provision of Grace afforded us in the seven Sacraments; as also the seven Gifts of the Holy Ghost, whereby the Soul is filled with comfort, strength, and vigour, to continue the course of our Pilgrimage.

Consider 3. And they took up that which was left of the fragments seven Maunds. Thus God is always overflowing in his liberality, and gifts towards us; but how niggard and close-handed are we towards him, and our Neighbour? Observe here, that the Over-plus that we have either in Temporals, or Spirituals, ought not to be cast away, but gathered together for the supply of others that are indigent. Lastly, learn this great Lesson, that none will ever be the poorer, but rather the richer for what they bestow out of pure Charity upon others, for relief of their corporal or spiritual necessities. See more of the like subject, concerning the five loaves, page 362, 363.

7. Sunday after Pentecost. Of False Prophets, Mat. 7.15. page 327.

Consider 1. Take ye heed of false Prophets, which

come to you in the cloathing of sheep, but inwardly are ravening wolves. False Prophets 1. Are Heretiques, who under the fair pretence of Sanctity, Liberty of Conscience, expounding of Scripture, &c. preach false Doctrine. 2. All those, which under the pre∣text of some good, or Virtue, especially of Pru∣dence and Discretion, preach to us such things as are more agreeable to flesh and blood: Such are Self-love, Concupiscence, Passion, Worldly Max∣imes, Pleasant Companions, the Devil, &c. Have a care what Prophets you entertain; see they be none of those of whom Jeremy,* 1.24 Thy Prophets have seen false and foolish things to thee.

* 1.25Consider 2. By their fruits you shall know them. Think what are the fruits of the above-mentioned false Prophets: Obstinacy, Licentiousness, Disorder, Disquiet, Sting and Wound of Conscience, &c. A good Tree cannot yield evil fruits, neither an evil Tree yield good fruits: The Tree planted in the earth raiseth its branches and fruit upwards; so man, though upon earth, should have his conversati∣on in Heaven, and produce heavenly fruit: Every Tree that yieldeth not good fruit, shall be cut down, and shall be cast into fire: Take warning, and yield good fruit in time;* 1.26 perhaps the Axe is now put to the root of your Tree.

* 1.27Consider 3. Not every one that saith Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven, but he that doth the will of my Father which is in Heaven: Not all that call upon God by an exteriour Profession of Godliness, nor all that undertake to Preach his Word shall be saved, but those only which bring forth the good fruit above required, viz. the Will of God, declared unto them by the Holy Church, Superiours, Directors, Interiour Inspirations, &c. This is the Will of God (saith the Apostle) your San∣ctification, by supernatural Grace, and exercise of

solid Virtue, according to every ones state and pro∣fession.

8. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the Bailiff of Ini∣quity, Luc. 16.1. page 335. see page 449.

9. Sunday after Pentecost. Of Christs weeping upon the City, Luc. 19.41. page 343. see page 147.

10. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the Publican, and the Pharisee, Luc. 18.9. page 350. see page 460.

11. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the Deaf and Dumb Man, Marc. 7.31. page 357. see page 409, 410, 411.

12. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the man wounded by Thieves, and of the good Samaritan, Luc. 10.23. page 365. see page 433, 434.

13. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the ten Lepers, Luc. 17.11. page 372. see page 407, 408.

14. Sunday after Pentecost. Of serving God, and Mammon, Mat. 6.24. page 380.

Consider 1. No man can serve two Masters, &c. You cannot serve God, and Mammon. There are two that would have you for their Servant, God, and the World; you cannot serve both, because they are opposite to one another; neither can you serve one, without hating the other: God requires of you, that you should seek Heaven, contemn Earthly things, imbrace Virtue, curb the Flesh, subdue Sense, &c. The World, on the contrary, will have you seek your own content, and satisfaction, enjoy the conveniences of this life, neglect spiritual things, cherish and pamper the flesh, and give full scope to all your sensual Appetites. Now chuse which of these two Services you like best, whom you will have for your Master, whom you will love, and whom you will hate.

Consider 2. Therefore I say unto you, be not careful for your life what you shall eat, neither for your body what rayment you shall put on, &c. Christ per∣swades

us here to cast off all immoderate care of Temporals, which he doth by five convincing Ar∣guments. 1. A Majori. If God hath given us our Soul, and Body, he will also provide us with ne∣cessaries for their preservation. 2. A Minori. If God doth so providently feed the beasts of the earth, and adorn the flowers and grass of the field; what will he not do for his children? 3. For that all our care availeth nothing without Gods Providence, not being able to add a Cubit to our stature. 4. For that this care is common to Heathens and Infidels, that know not God, not proper for Christians, that believe and trust in him. 5. For that God is a loving Father, who cannot know the necessities of his children, and let them want.

* 1.28Consider 3. That most admirable and comfort∣able conclusion; Seek therefore first the Kingdom of God, and the Justice of him, and all these things shall be given you besides: The Kingdom of God is his Glory, and our Everlasting Happiness; This one thing is necessary; this is the treasure hidden in a field; this is the precious Margarit, to be purchased with all we have; this ought to be our prime care, to imploy our chiefest thoughts, to take up our best times, &c. which done, all these things shall be given us besides. O that we had courage and resolution to perform the first part, and faith enough practically to believe this latter!

15. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the Widows Son of Naim, Luc. 7.11. page 388. see page 423, 424.

16. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the man cured of the Dropsie, Luc. 14.1. page 306.

Consider 1. And it came to pass when Jesus en∣tered into the house of a certain Prince of the Phari∣sees upon the Sabboth to eat bread, and they watched him. Ponder here the goodness of Christ, not re∣fusing to eat, and converse familiarly with his Ene∣mies,

seeking thereby occasion to do them good; and the perversness of the Pharisees in observing and watching him, not to profit, but to calumniate. Do you observe our Lord in all his sayings, and doings, but so as to benefit your self, and glorifie him; and endeavour to demean your self so in all your exteriour comportment, that you need not fear to be observed and taken notice of by all, even your Enemies.

Consider 2. And behold there was a certain man before him that had a Dropsie. Behold your self in this man, and acknowledge with S. Augustine, that you have a Conscience sick of the Dropsie,* 1.29 thirsting after terrene things; the more you are indulgent to your self, the more you nourish this disease. Christ feels their pulse, and temper, before he cures this man; saying, Is it lawful to cure on the Sab∣both? but they were ashamed to discover their ma∣lignity openly, and (what e're they thought) they held their peace: But he taking him, healed him, and sent him away: And to justifie himself, appeals to their own Conscience, what they would judge law∣ful in a less concern of their own Oxe, or Ass.

* 1.30Consider 3. When thou art invited to a Marriage, sit not down in the first place, &c. but go sit down in the last place, &c. This, as all other things that he taught, Christ exercised himself; he descended from the highest Heaven, to the Womb of a poor and humble Virgin; and all his life long chose for himself, in all occasions, that which was meanest, and became for us the very Out-cast of the people. Ponder well that Golden Sentence, Every one that exalteth himself, shall be humbled; and he that hum∣bleth himself, shall be exalted. First and Last are otherwise taken by God, otherwise by the World; the lower one is in the Worlds reckoning, the higher he is in Gods account; and on the contrary.

Christ was in the last Rank with the World, but in the first with God: If therefore you desire to be near Christ in Glory, you must come close to him in Humility.

17. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the great Precept of Charity, Mat. 22.34. page 403.

Consider 1. A Doctor of Law asked of him, which is the great Commandment in the Law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God from thy whole heart, and with thy whole soul, and with thy whole mind. We love him with our whole heart, soul, and mind, when we direct our thoughts, affections, senses, and actions to him; and when we let no created thing have any place in our heart, but in order to him, and detest whatsoever is dis∣pleasing to him. Consider the Motives you have to this love: 1. His benefits towards you, in your Creation, Conservation, Redemption, Sanctificati∣on, Gifts of Grace, and promise of Glory. 2. His own infinite Amiableness, his Bounty, Riches, Pow∣er, Glory, Beauty, &c.

* 1.31Consider 2. This love must not content it self with bare affections, wishes, and desires; it must pass to action, and both do, and suffer, when occa∣sion is, for the service and honour of God, that we may be able to say with the Apostle, Who shall separate us from the charity of Christ? tribulation, or distress, &c. or danger, or persecution, or sword? It is the property of true love to be communicative of it self, and what it hath, with its Beloved: Give therefore freely to God your self, and whatsoever you have; and because you have nothing that you have not from him, return it entire to him again by gratitude, and faithful use in his service. This is the greatest and first Commandment.

Consider 3. The second is like to this, Thou shalt

love thy Neighbour as thy self. Our Neighbour is not one, but every Child of Adam, Friend, and Ene∣my, &c. The Rule of our love is no other then our selves; whatsoever therefore you would have done, or not done to your self, observe the same to∣wards others, out of love, and for God, and you have observed this Precept: Our Motives are, for that we are all Created to the same Image of God, Redeemed with the same precious Blood of Christ, Children of the same Heavenly Father, called to the Inheritance of the same Kingdom, &c. Make it your whole study to have perfect Charity to∣wards God, and your Neighbour, knowing that On these two Commandments depend the whole Law, and Prophets.

18. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the Bed-rid let down from the Roof, Mat. 9.1. page 412. see page 399, 400.

19. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the Invitement to the Wedding, Mat. 22.1. page 419. see page 439, 440.

20. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the Princes Son restored to health, Jo. 4.46. page 427. see page 394, 395.

21. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the Debtor of ten thousand Talents, Mat. 28.23. page 435.

Consider 1. There was one presented unto his Lord that owed him ten thousand Talents. This is your self, and every sinner; there is no Debt so great as that of Sin; think how great yours i; And not having whence to repay it, his Lord commanded that he should be sold: We have nothing of our own to make satisfaction of, and by sin we forfeit Grace, Heaven, God, Soul and Body, and inslave our selves to the Devil. But that Steward falling down before him, said, have patience towards me, and

I will repay thee all. Think how often God hath had patience with you; you may truly say with the Prophet, The Mercies of our Lord,* 1.32 that I am not consumed.

Consider 2. And the Lord of that servant moved with pitty, dismissed him, and forgave him the debt. How easily is God satisfied? how great is his boun∣ty who giveth more then is asked, or could be ho∣ped for? He hath done the same, and much more for you; and hath not only freed you from the slavery of sin, but also made you his Adopted Son, and Heir of his Kingdom: When that servant was gone forth, he found one of his fellow servants, that did owe him a hundred pence, and laying hands upon him, thratled him, saying, Repay what thou owest; and notwithstanding the others humble entreaty, went his way, and cast him into prison, till he repayed the debt. How often do you the same in the petty injuries done to you?

Consider 3. Thou ungracious servant, &c. oughtest not thou also to have mercy upon thy fellow servant, even as I had mercy upon thee? Apply these words to your self, and take heed of what follows: And his Lord being angry, delivered him to the Tormentors, un∣til he had repaid all the debt. Ponder well the final clause: So also shall my Father do to you, if you forgive not every one his Brother from your hearts. Sins once forgiven return not, but the succeeding Ingra∣titude is made the greater, and worthy of double punishment, by the greatness of the former bene∣fit. This forgiveness must not be verbal only, but from the heart, and without keeping any grudge.

22. Sunday after Pentecost. Of paying Tribute to Cesar. Mat. 22.15. page 443.

Consider 1. Master, we know that thou art a true speaker, and teachest the way of God in truth,

neither carest thou, for any man, for thou dost not re∣spect the persons of men. Here is delivered a perfect description of an upright man: Think how you are in every particular; whether you be a true speaker: 1. As to your self, by a right judgment, and estimate of things. 2. In relation to others, by conformance of your words to Truth, and Consci∣ence; whether you hold the way of God, or not rather the Maximes and Principles of the World; whether you care for man, so as to fear, or love him more then you do God; and whether you re∣spect the person of men, so as to do, or omit any thing for humane respects, against your Consci∣ence.

* 1.33Consider 2. Is it lawful to give tribute to Cesar? A pertinent Question, but proposed with a wicked intention, to intrap him in his speeches; But there is no Councel nor Wisdom against our Lord, who takes them in their own Traps, proposing to them a question about the Tribute Coyn, saying, whose is this Image and Superscription? Look upon your self, and ask this question, Whose is this Image? You cannot say it is Cesars, or the Worlds; it is Gods: The light of thy Countenance, O Lord, is signed upon us: But alas! how deformed is it be∣come? you have made it the Image of the Ter∣rene Man; endeavour to reform your self, till Christ be formed again in you;* 1.34 and as you have born the Image of the Earthly, so hereafter bear the Image of the Heavenly.

* 1.35Consider 3. Render therefore the things that are Cesars, to Cesar, and the things that are Gods, to God: God will have us give every one his due; To whom tribute, tribute; to whom oustom, custom; to whom fear, fear; to whom honour, honour: Owe no man any thing, but that you love one another.

Render your self therefore, Body, and Soul, with all your Powers, Senses, and Faculties, to God, whose you are by Creation, Redemption, &c. Render likewise what you owe to your Neighbour, to wit, Love, and Charity, who is made to the same Image, Created by the same hand, and redeemed with the same precious Blood with your self.

23. Sunday after Pentecost. Of the Princes Daugh∣ter, and the Hemorroisse, Mat. 9.18. page 451. see page 420, 421, 422.

24. Sunday after Pentecost, or the last before Ad∣vent. Of the Destruction of Jerusalem, and of the Latter Judgment, Mat. 24.15.

Consider 1. When you shall see the Abomination of Desolation, &c. then they that are in Jewry, let them fly to the Mountains, &c. In the first part of this Gospel, Christ treateth of Jerusalems Destruction, and Desolation; in the second, of the latter Judg∣ment: Death is the time of mans greatest Desola∣tion, and the next passage to his particular Judg∣ment, on which depends the General: Christ therefore warns us to provide for it in time; for when it is once come, it will then be too late, and we shall be so surprized, that we shall not have lei∣sure to dispose of our selves, or our goods, as we would: He that is in the house top, let him not come down to take any thing out of his house; and he that is in the field, let him not go back to take his coat.

Consider 2. Woe to them that are with-child, and that give suck in those daies. That last day is al∣ways at hand, and perhaps this may be it: Woe be to you, if you labour till now in bare desires, and have as yet brought forth no good works to light; Pray that your flight be not in the winter: Stir your self up to Fervour, and have a care Death comes not upon you while you are cold, and frozen in Gods

service; Nor on the Sabboth, while you are in your jollines: You must be disposed for every hour, for no hour is secure from danger.

Consider 3. There shall be then great tribulation, such as hath not been from the beginning of the world. Such will Death truly be to tepid and improvident Christians, that have put off till then what they should have done before; the Body will then be tormented all over with a dreadful Agony, but much more the Conscience, for then it will have a clear∣er knowledge of Good and Evil, and will find the burden of Sin more heavy, and unsupportable, then ever before. If you be wise, seek to avoid this Tribulation; do now what you would have done then; avoid now what you would wish then to have avoided.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Osee 2.14
• * 1.2

  Prov. 10.7
• * 1.3

  Mat. 3.2.
• * 1.4

  1 Jo. 1.8.
• * 1.5

  Luc. 13.3.
• * 1.6

  •• Cor. 1.30.
• * 1.7

  Gal. 5.17.
• * 1.8

  1 Reg. 2.30.
• * 1.9

  Heb. 10.30.
• * 1.10

  Jo. 6.68.
• * 1.11

  Mat. 4.4.
• * 1.12

  Jo. 8.34.
• * 1.13

  S. August.
• * 1.14

  2 Cor. 4.17.
• * 1.15

  Job 21.13
• * 1.16

  Luc. 16.25
• * 1.17

  Bern. Ser. 12.
• * 1.18

  Jo. 3.20.
• * 1.19

  1 Cor. 11.31.
• * 1.20

  2 Cor. 1.4
• * 1.21

  Seq. in Missa de Spir. S.
• * 1.22

  Jo. 14.6.
• * 1.23

  1 Cor. 10.17.
• * 1.24

  Thren. 2.14.
• * 1.25

  Phil. 3.20.
• * 1.26

  Mat. 3.10.
• * 1.27

  1 Thes. 4.3.
• * 1.28

  Luc. 10.42 Mat. 13.44, 45.
• * 1.29

  S. Aug. 2. quaest. E∣vang.
• * 1.30

  Ps. 21.7.
• * 1.31

  Rom. 8.35
• * 1.32

  Thren. 3.22.
• * 1.33

  Ps. 4.7.
• * 1.34

  Gal. 4.19. 1 Cor. 15.49.
• * 1.35

  Rom. 7.13