callings for that end and time: and Ministers ought to set this work on foot; for, the Priests are to blow the Trumpet in Zion, that there may be a fast, and solemne assembly; or time of re∣straint from other imployments. 2. Care would be had both by Ministers and people in their stations, that such a duty be not pro∣phanely gone about, nor external formalities and performances rested on; But that it may be performed in a spiritual and sancti∣fied manner; And for this end, there should be due preparation for it; Therefore, saith he, sanctifie a fast, sanctifie the congre∣gation, that is, when ye Priests intimate the fast, stir them up to come prepared (as the word also signifieth) and purified accord∣ing to the Law that so they may fast in a sanctified manner. 3. Pub∣lick humiliations under calamites should be universally joyned in by all, that all may concurre to quench the fire which their sinnes have kindled, and every one may tremble to lie by in such a need; Therefore is the command, Gather the people. 4. It is the duty of such as are above others in age or authority, to be e∣minently active and examples unto others in times of humiliati∣on; Therefore is there a peculiar command concerning them, Assemble the Elders, to acquit themselves as becometh in this work, And by Elders we are not only to understand these that were in office, but even old men, as appeareth from the opposition of children, &c. that is subjoyned. 5. Children and sucking babes were brought out with the rest, in solemne humiliations un∣der the Law, not because they can repent, but, 1. That parents seeing their childrens affliction, might lay to heart their owne sinnes, for which their babes are afflicted. 2. That love to their children, and care of their welfare might stir them up to repent. 3. That considering that their children had so much sinne in themselves, as justly made them obnoxious to these judgements; they might be led to see their owne provocations, to be farre more hainous. 4. That this sad sight on young and old, might contri∣bute to stirre them up to the duty for which they we••e convened. These were the reasons of this command, Gather the children and those that suck the breasts. And albeit this be ceased under the Gospel, yet all these considerations may be of good use to stir up to repentance in sad times. Doct. 6. Even delights, otherwise lawful, ought to be for horne in times of humiliation under cala∣mities, and ought to be laid aside, that humiliation may be seri∣ously set about. Therefore it is commanded, let the bridegroome go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet.