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{\rtf1\ansi\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\cf1\lang3082\kerning32\f0\fs23\par } {\rtf1\ansi\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\cf1\lang3082\kerning32\f0\fs23\par } {\rtf1\ansi\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\cf1\lang3082\kerning32\f0\fs23\par } $T r 5 U m 0 \)Y"Jh-_t114 - How we should Approach Christ's ^Rs113 - On Ardent Love and Eager Desire &ύ`Tr112 - How should Declare Needs Christ.\Pq111 - How Devotion Humility Self-DenialbVp110 - On Ardent Desire Body ChristXZNo109 - How Devout Soul should Sincerely DHdXn108 - On Need Careful Preparation Receive p%j^m107 - How Body Christ Holy Scriptures . fZl106 - That Holy Communion Lightly Foregone' %jh\k105 - How must Offer Ourselves wholly *7^Rj104 - On the Offering of Christ on the Cross l`i103 - On Self-Examination, Purpose ZNh102 - On Preparation for Communion@VJg101 - On the Dignity of the SacramentD \Pf100 - On Many Blessings Granted Devout #LbVe099 - On the Value of Frequent CommunionbVd098 - On Great Goodness Love God (#,ZNc097 - On Deep Reverence which Christ <\Pb096 - That should Hope Trust God AloneN#k^Ra095 - How may Inquire into Unsearchable F6'dX`094 - That we should never Despair*VJ_093 - How must Follow Christ's Way Cross 0fZ^092 - On Corruption Nature, Power Grace#xfZ]091 - On Contrary Workings Nature Grace&0Ah\\090 - How God's Grace Granted Worldly-MindedZYnb[089 - How no Man is Worthy of God's Comfort>hh\Z088 - How we Lack Strength Higher Work @fZY087 - On Trust in God in all Trouble:)xZNX086 - On Desire Eternal Life, Wonder God's +Ll`W085 - On Eternity, Limitations Life&!\PV084 - How Burdens must Borne win Eternal LifeRl`U083 - On Putting our Entire Trust in GoddXT082 - How we should not Believe all we 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;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\cf1\lang3082\kerning32\f0\fs23\par } {\rtf1\ansi\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\cf1\lang3082\kerning32\f0\fs23\par } {\rtf1\ansi\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\cf1\lang3082\kerning32\f0\fs23\par } {\rtf1\ansi\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\cf1\lang3082\kerning32\f0\fs23\par } LVAL%{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f1\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue255;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\nowidctlpar\lang1033\f0\fs24 Imitation of Christ\par By Thomas a Kempis\par \par \par Formatted by\par David Cox 2009\par \pard{\field{\*\fldinst{HYPERLINK "mailto:dcox@davidcox.com.mx" }}{\fldrslt{\cf1\ul dcox@davidcox.com.mx}}}\cf0\ulnone\f0\fs24\par \par \pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\kerning32\b\f1\fs32 Contenido\par \par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f0\fs24\par \pard\lang3082\f1 Chapter 1\tab 3\par COUNSELS ON THE SPIRITUAL LIFE\tab 3\par Chapter 2\tab 4\par On Personal Humility\tab 4\par Chapter 3\tab 5\par On the Teaching of Truth\tab 5\par Chapter 4\tab 6\par On Prudence in Action\tab 6\par Chapter 5\tab 6\par On Reading the Holy Scriptures\tab 6\par Chapter 6\tab 7\par On Control of the Desires\tab 7\par Chapter 7\tab 7\par On Avoiding Vain Hope and Conceit\tab 7\par 08 On Guarding against Familiarity\tab 8\par 09 On Obedience and Discipline\tab 8\par 10 On Avoiding Talkativeness\tab 9\par On Peace and Spiritual Progress\tab 9\par On the Uses of Adversity\tab 10\par On Resisting Temptations\tab 10\par On Avoiding Rash Judgements\tab 11\par On Deeds Inspired by Love\tab 12\par On Bearing with the Faults of Others\tab 12\par On the Monastic Life\tab 13\par On the Examples of the Holy Fathers\tab 13\par On the Practices of a Good Religious\tab 15\par On the Love of Solitude and Silence\tab 16\par On Contrition of Heart\tab 17\par On Human Misery\tab 18\par A Meditation on Death\tab 19\par On Judgement and the Punishment of Sinners\tab 21\par On the Zealous Amendment of our Life\tab 22\par Counsels on the Inner Life\tab 24\par On Humble Submission to God\tab 25\par On the Good and Peaceful Man\tab 26\par On Purity of Mind and Simplicity of Purpose\tab 26\par On KnoLVAL&wing Ourselves\tab 27\par On the Joys of a Good Conscience\tab 27\par On Loving Jesus above all Things\tab 28\par On Close Friendship with Jesus\tab 29\par On the Lack of all Comfort\tab 30\par On Gratitude for God's Grace\tab 31\par On the Few Lovers of the Cross of Jesus\tab 32\par On the Royal Road of the Holy Cross\tab 33\par A Prayer for the Grace of Devotion\tab 37\par On the Wonderful Effect of Divine Love\tab 38\par On the Proof of a True Lover\tab 39\par On Concealing Grace under Humility\tab 40\par On Humility in the Sight of God\tab 41\par How God Alone is our True End\tab 41\par On the Joy of God's Service\tab 42\par On Control of the Heart\tab 43\par On Learning Patience\tab 43\par On Obedience after the Example of Christ\tab 44\par On the Secret Judgements of God\tab 45\par On the Ordering of our Desires\tab 46\par A Prayer that the Will of God may be Done\tab 46\par How True Comfort is to be Sought in God Alone\tab 46\par How we must put our Whole Trust in God\tab 47\par How Sorrows are to be Borne Patiently\tab 47\par On Enduring Injuries and the Proof of Patience\tab 48\par How we must Rest in God Alone above all Things\tab 50\par On Being Mindful of God's Blessings\tab 51\par On Four Things that Bring Peace\tab 52\par On the Evils of Curiosity\tab 53\par On Lasting Peace and True Progress\tab 53\par On the Excellence of a Free Mind\tab 54\par How Self-Love Hinders our Search for God\tab 55\par Against Slander\tab 56\par How we should Bless God in all Trouble\tab 56\par On Asking God's Help and the Certainty of his Grace\tab 56\par On Forsaking Creatures to Find the Creator\tab 57\par On Self-Denial, and Renunciation of our Desires\tab 58\par On Inconstancy of Heart\tab 59\par On God's Graciousness to Those who Love Him\tab 59\par How There is o Security From Temptation\tab 60\par Against the Vain Judgements of Men\tab 61\par How Surrender of Self Brings Freedom of Heart\tab 61\par On the Right Ordering of our Affairs\tab 62\par How We shouldLVAL' not be Over Anxious\tab 62\par How Man has no Personal Goodness of which to Boast\tab 63\par On Contempt for Worldly Honors\tab 64\par That Our Peace cannot Depend on Man\tab 64\par A Warning against Vain and Worldly Learning\tab 64\par On Avoiding Distractions\tab 65\par How we should not Believe all we Hear\tab 65\par On Putting our Entire Trust in God\tab 66\par How Burdens must be Borne to win Eternal Life\tab 67\par On Eternity and the Limitations of This Life\tab 68\par On the Desire for Eternal Life and the Wonder of God's Promises\tab 69\par On Trust in God in all Trouble\tab 71\par How when we Lack Strength for Higher Work we should Undertake Humble Tasks\tab 72\par How no Man is Worthy of God's Comfort\tab 73\par How God's Grace is not Granted to the Worldly-Minded\tab 73\par On the Contrary Workings of Nature and Grace\tab 74\par On the Corruption of Nature and the Power of Grace\tab 75\par How we must Follow Christ's Way of the Cross in Self-Denial\tab 77\par That we should never Despair\tab 78\par How we may not Inquire into the Unsearchable Judgements of God\tab 78\par That we should Hope and Trust in God Alone\tab 80\par On the Deep Reverence with which Christ should be Received\tab 81\par On the Great Goodness and Love of God in this Sacrament\tab 83\par On the Value of Frequent Communion\tab 84\par On the Many Blessings Granted to the Devout Communicant\tab 85\par On the Dignity of the Sacrament, and of the Priestly Office\tab 86\par On Preparation for Communion\tab 87\par On Self-Examination, and the Purpose of Amendment\tab 87\par On the Offering of Christ on the Cross\tab 88\par How we must Offer Ourselves wholly to God and Pray for all Men\tab 89\par That Holy Communion is not to be Lightly Foregone\tab 90\par How the Body of Christ and the Holy Scriptures are most Necessary to the Faithful Soul\tab 91\par On the Need for Careful Preparation to Receive Christ in Holy Communion\tab 93\par How the Devout Soul should Sincerely Desire Union with Chris| LVAL t in his Sacrament\tab 94\par On Ardent Desire for the Body of Christ\tab 94\par How Devotion is Won by Humility and Self-Denial\tab 95\par How we should Declare our Needs to Christ, and Ask his Grace\tab 96\par On Ardent Love and Eager Desire to Receive Christ\tab 96\par \cf1\lang1033\ul\f0 [~JumpFile {\field{\*\fldinst{HYPERLINK "http://www.worldinvisible.com/library/akempis/imitation/contents.htm"}}{\fldrslt{\ul\cf1 http://www.worldinvisible.com/library/akempis/imitation/contents.htm}}}\f0\fs24 ]\cf2\ulnone\par \cf0\par \cf2\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALP){\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 Chapter 1\par COUNSELS ON THE SPIRITUAL LIFE\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par 'HE who follows Me shall not walk in darkness,' says Our Lord. (Joh_8:2)\par \par In these words Christ counsels us to follow His life and way if we desire true enlightenment and freedom from all blindness of heart (Mar_3:5). Let the life of Jesus Christ, then, be our first consideration.\par \par The teaching of Jesus far transcends all the teachings of the Saints, and whosoever has His spirit will discover concealed in it heavenly manna (Rev_2:17) But many people, although they often hear the Gospel, feel little desire to follow it, because they lack the spirit of Christ (Rom_8:9). Whoever desires to understand and take delight in the words of Christ must strive to conform his whole life to Him.\par \par Of what use is it to discourse learnedly on the Trinity, if you lack humility and therefore displease the Trinity? Lofty words do not make a man just or holy; but a good life makes him dear to God. I would far rather feel contrition than be able to define it. If you knew the whole Bible by heart, and all the teachings of the philosophers, how would this help you without the grace and love of God? `Vanity of vanities, and all is vanity,'(Eccles. I: 2) except to love God and serve Him alone (Deu_6:13). And this is supreme wisdom - to despise the world, and draw daily nearer the kingdom of heaven.\par \par It is vanity to solicit honors, or to raise oneself to high station. It is vanity to be a slave to bodily desires,'(Gal_5:16) and to crave for things which bring certain retribution. It is vanity to wish for long life, if you care little for a good life. It is vanity to give thought F LVALV only to this present life, and to care nothing for the life to come. It is vanity to love things that so swiftly pass away, and not to hasten onwards to that place where everlasting joy abides.\par \par Keep constantly in mind the saying, `The eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing. '(Ecc_1:8). Strive to withdraw your heart from the love of visible things, and direct your affections to things invisible. For those who follow only their natural inclinations defile their conscience, and lose the grace of God.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL+{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 Chapter 2\par On Personal Humility\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Everyone naturally desires knowledge, (Aristotle, Metaphysics I,1.) but of what use is knowledge itself without the fear of God? A humble countryman who serves God is more pleasing to Him than a conceited intellectual who knows the course of the stars, but neglects his own soul (Ecclus. 19:22). A man who truly knows himself realizes his own worthlessness, and takes no pleasure in the praises of men. Did I possess all knowledge in the world, but had no loves how would this help me before God, who will judge me by my deeds?\par \par Restrain an inordinate desire for knowledge, in which is found much anxiety and deception. Learned men always wish to appear so, and desire recognition of their wisdom. But there are many matters, knowledge of which brings little or no advantage to the soul. Indeed, a man is unwise if he occupies himself with any things save those that further his salvation. A spate of words does nothing to satisfy the soul, but a good life refreshes the mind, and a clean conscience (1Ti_3:9), brings great confidence in God.\par \par The more complete and excellent your knowledge, the more severe will be God's judgement on you, unless your life be the more holy. Therefore, do not be conceited of any skill or knowledge you may possess, but respect the knowledge that is entrusted to you. If it seems to you that you know a great deal and have wide experience in many fields, yet remember that there are many matters of which you are ignorant. So do not be conceited,(Rom_11:20) but confess your ignorance. Why do you wish to esteem yourself above others, when there are many who are wiser and mor LVAL e perfect in the Law of God? If you desire to know or learn anything to your advantage, then take delight in being unknown and unregarded.\par \par A true understanding and humble estimate of oneself is the highest and most valuable of all lessons. To take no account of oneself, but always to think well and highly of others is the highest wisdom and perfection. Should you see another person openly doing evil, or carrying out a wicked purpose, do not on that account consider yourself better than him, for you cannot tell how long you will remain in a state of grace We are all frail; consider none more frail than yourself.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\lang2058\f2\fs23\par } LVALz-{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 Chapter 3\par On the Teaching of Truth\par \par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22 Happy the man who is instructed by Truth itself, not by signs and passing words (Num_12:8), but as It is in itself. Our own conjectures and observations often mislead us, and we discover little. Of what value are lengthy controversies on deep and obscure matters, when it is not by our knowledge of such things that we shall at length be judged? It is supreme folly to neglect things that are useful and vital, and deliberately turn to curious and harmful things. Truly, `we have eyes and see not (Jer_5:21; Joh_12:40; Rom_11:8): for what concern to us are such things as genera and species?\par \par Those to whom the Eternal Word speaks are delivered from uncertainty. From one Word proceed all things (Joh_1:3) and all things tell of Him; it is He, the Author of all things, who speaks to us (Joh_8:25). Without Him no one can understand or judge aright. But the man to whom all things are one, who refers everything to One, and who sees everything as in One, is enabled to remain steadfast in heart, and abide at peace with God.\par \par O God, living Truth (Joh_14:6) unite me to Yourself in everlasting love (Jer_31:3)! Often I am wearied by all I read and hear. In You alone is all that I desire and long for. Therefore let all teachers keep silence, and let all creation be still before You; do You, O Lord, speak alone.\par \par The more closely a man is united to You in pure simplicity, the more varied and profound the matters which he understands without effort, for he receives light and understanding from heaven. A pure, simple, and stable man, however busy and occupied, does not become distracted theLVAL.reby, for he does all things to the glory of God, and strives to preserve himself free from all self-seeking. And what harms and hinders you more than the undisciplined passions of your own heart? A good and devout man firstly sets in order in his mind whatever tasks he has in hand, and never allows them to lead him into occasions of sin, but humbly subjects them to the dictates of a sound judgement. Who has a fiercer struggle than he who strives to conquer himself (Wisd. 10:12)? Yet this must be our chief concern - to conquer self, and by daily growing stronger than self, to advance in holiness.\par \par All perfection in this life is accompanied by a measure of imperfection, and all our knowledge contains an element of obscurity. A humble knowledge of oneself is a surer road to God than a deep searching of the sciences. Yet learning itself is not to be blamed, nor is the simple knowledge of anything whatsoever to be despised, for true learning is good in itself and ordained by God; but a good conscience and a holy life are always to be preferred. But because many are more eager to acquire much learning than to live well, they often go astray, and bear little or no fruit. If only such people were as diligent in the uprooting of vices and the planting of virtues as they are in the debating of problems, there would not be so many evils and scandals among the people, nor such laxity in communities. At the Day of Judgement, we shall not be asked what we have read, but what we have done; not how eloquently we have spoken, but how holily we have lived. Tell me, where are now all those Masters and Doctors whom you wso well in their lifetime in the full flower of their learning? Other men now sit in their seats, and they are hardly ever called to mind. In their lifetime they seemed of great account, but now no one speaks of them.\par \par Oh, how swiftly the glory of the world passes away (1Jn_2:17)! If only the lives of these men had been as admirable as their learning,their study and reading would have LVAL& been to good purpose But how many in this world care little for the service of God end perish in their vain learning. Because they choose to be great rather than humble, they perish in their own conceit (Rom_1:21). He is truly great; who is great in the love of God. He is truly great, who is humble in mind, and regards earth's higher honors as nothing. He is truly wise who counts all earthly things as dung, in order that he may win Christ.(Php_3:8) And he is truly learned, who renounces his own will for the will of God.\par \par \pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\kerning32\b\f0\fs32\par \pard\cf1\b0\f2\fs23\par } `LVALp{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 Chapter 4\par On Prudence in Action\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par We should not believe every word (Ecclus 19:16) and suggestion, but should carefully and unhurriedly consider all things in accordance with the will of God. For such is the weakness of human nature, alas, that evil is often more readily believed and spoken of another than good. But perfect men do not easily believe every tale that is told them, for they know that man's nature is prone to evi1, (Gen_8:21) and his words to deceptions (Ecclus 14:1).\par \par It is wise not to be over hasty in action, nor to cling stubbornly to our own opinions. It is wise also not to believe all that we hear, nor to hasten to report to others what we hear or believe. Take counsel of a wise and conscientious man, and seek (Tobit 4:19) to be guided by one who is better than yourself, rather than to follow your own opinions. A good life makes a man wise towards God, and gives him experience in many things (Ecclus 34:9). The more humble and obedient to God a man is, the more wise and at peace he will be in all that he does.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 Chapter 5\par On Reading the Holy Scriptures\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par In the holy Scriptures, truth is to be looked for rather than fair phrases. All sacred scriptures should be read in the spirit in which they were written. In them, therefore, we should seek food for our souls rather than subtleties of speech, and we should as readily read simple and devout books as those that are lofty and profound. Do not be influenced by the importance of the writer, and whether his learning be great or small, but let the love of pure truth draw you to read. Do not inquire, `Who said this?'(Seneca, Epist. 12) but pay attention to what is said (S.Augustine on Ps. 34).\par \par Men pass away, but the word of the Lord endures forever (Psa_127:2).\par \par God speaks to us in different ways, (Col_3:25) and is no respecter of persons (Ecclus 6:35; 8-9). But curiosity often hinders us in the reading of the Scriptures, for we try to examine and dispute over matters that we should pass over and accept in simplicity. If you desire to profit, read with humility, simplicity, and faith, and have no concern to appear learned. Ask questions freely, and listen in silence to the words of the Saints; hear with patience the parables of the fathers, for they are not told without good cause.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 Chapter 6\par On Control of the Desires\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Whenever a man desires anything inordinately, at once he becomes restless. A proud and avaricious man is never at rest; but a poor and humble man enjoys the riches of peace. A man who is not yet perfectly dead to self is easily tempted, and is overcome even in small and trifling things. And he who weak in spirit, and still a prey to the senses and bodily passions, can only with great difficulty free himself from worldly lusts. \par \par Therefore he is sad when he does so withdraw himself, and quickly angered when anyone opposes him. Yet, if he obtains what he desires, his conscience is at once stricken by remorse, because he has yielded to his passion, which in no way helps him in his search for peace. True peace of heart can be found only by resisting the passions, not by yielding to them. There is no peace in the heart of a worldly man, who is entirely given to outward affairs; but only in a fervent, spiritual man,\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALn{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 Chapter 7\par On Avoiding Vain Hope and Conceit\par \par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22 Whoever puts his confidence in men or in any creature is very foolish. Do not be ashamed to be the servant of others forlove of Jesus Christ, and to appear poor in this world. Do nottrust in yourself, but put your whole confidence in God. Dowhat you are able, and God will bless your good intention.Do not trust in your own knowledge, nor in the cleverness ofany man living, but rather in the grace of God, who aids the humble (Jas_4:6) and humbles the proud.\par \par Do not boast of your possessions, if you have any, nor of the influence of your friends; but glory in God, (2Co_10:17) who gives all things and desires above all things to give you Himself. Do not be vain about your beauty or strength of body, which a little sickness can mar and disfigure. Take no pleasure in your own ability and cleverness, lest you offend God, who has Himself bestowed on you all your natural gifts.\par \par Do not esteem yourself better than others, lest you appear worse in the eyes of God, who alone knows the heart of man (Psa_44:11; Joh_2:25). Do not be proud of your good deeds, for God does not judge as men; and what delights men often displeases God. If you have any good qualities, remember that others have more; and so remain humble. It does you no harm when you esteem all others better than yourself, but it does you great harm when you esteem yourself above others. True peace dwells only in the heart of the humble: but the heart of the proud is ever full of pride and jealousy.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 08 On Guarding against Familiarity\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Do not open your heart to everyone,(Ecclus. 8:19) but ask counsel of one who is wise and fears God. Be seldom with young people and strangers. Do not flatter the wealthy, and avoid the society of the great. Associate rather with the humble and simple, the devout, and the virtuous, and converse with them on such things as edify. Avoid undue familiarity with the other sex, but commend all good women to God. Desire to be familiar only with God and his angels, and do not seek the acquaintance of men.\par \par We must live in charity with all men, but familiarity with them is not desirable. It sometimes happens that someone personally unknown to us enjoys a high reputation, but that when we meet him, we are not impressed. Similarly, we sometimes imagine that our company is pleasing, when in reality we offend others by our ill behavior.\par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\cf1\lang1033\kerning32\f0\fs23\par } {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 09 On Obedience and Discipline\par \par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22 It is an excellent thing to live under obedience to a superior, and not to be one's own master. It is much safer to obey than to rule. Many live under obedience more of necessity than of love and such people are often discontented and complaining. They will never attain freedom of mind unless they submit with their whole heart for the love of God. Go where you please, but nowhere will you find rest except in humble obedience under the rule of a superior. Preference for other places and desire for change have unsettled many.\par \par Everyone gladly does whatever he most likes, and likes best those who think as he does; but if God is to dwell among us we must sometimes yield our own opinion for the sake of peace. Who is so wise that he knows all things? So do not place too much reliance on the rightness of your own view but be ready to consider the views of others. If your opinion is sound, and you forego it for the love of God and follow that of another, you will win great merit. I have often heard that is safer to accept advice than to give it. It may even come about that each of two opinions is good; but to refuse to come to an agreement with others when reason or occasion demand it is a sign of pride and obstinacy.\par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 09 On Obedience and Discipline\par \par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22 It is an excellent thing to live under obedience to a superior, and not to be one's own master. It is much safer to obey than to rule. Many live under obedience more of necessity than of love and such people are often discontented and complaining. They will never attain freedom of mind unless they submit with their whole heart for the love of God. Go where you please, but nowhere will you find rest except in humble obedience under the rule of a superior. Preference for other places and desire for change have unsettled many.\par \par Everyone gladly does whatever he most likes, and likes best those who think as he does; but if God is to dwell among us we must sometimes yield our own opinion for the sake of peace. Who is so wise that he knows all things? So do not place too much reliance on the rightness of your own view but be ready to consider the views of others. If your opinion is sound, and you forego it for the love of God and follow that of another, you will win great merit. I have often heard that is safer to accept advice than to give it. It may even come about that each of two opinions is good; but to refuse to come to an agreement with others when reason or occasion demand it is a sign of pride and obstinacy.\par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 10 On Avoiding Talkativeness\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Avoid public gatherings as much as possible, for the discussion of worldly affairs becomes a great hindrance, even though it be with the best of intentions, for we are quickly corrupted and ensnared by vanity. Often I wish I had remained silent, and had not been among men. But why is it that we are so ready to chatter and gossip with each other, when we so seldom return to silence without some injury to our conscience? The reason why we are so fond of talking with each other is that we think to find consolation in this manner, and to refresh a heart wearied with many cares. And we prefer to speak and think of those things which we like and desire, or of those which we dislike. Alas, however, all this is often to no purpose, for this outward consolation is no small obstacle to inner and divine consolation.\par \par We must watch and pray (Mat_26:41) that our time may not be spent fruitlessly. When it is right and proper to speak, speak to edify (Eph_4:29). Evil habits and neglect of spiritual progress are the main cause of our failure to guard the tongue (Jas_3:5). But devout conversation on spiritual matters greatly furthers our spiritual progress, especially with those who are heart and soul with us in the service of God (Act_2:42).\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL8{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Peace and Spiritual Progress\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par We could enjoy much peace if we did not busy ourselves with what other people say and do, for this is no concern of ours. How can anyone remain long at peace who meddles in other people's affairs; who seeks occasion to gad about, and who makes little or no attempt at recollection? Blessed are the single-hearted (Mat_5:8) for they shall enjoy much peace (Psa_37:2).\par \par How were some of the Saints so perfect and contemplative? It is because they strove with all their might to mortify in themselves all wordly desires, and could thus cling to God in their inmost heart, and offer themselves freely and wholly to Him. But we are held too firmly by our passions, and are too much concerned with the passing affairs of the world. We seldom completely master a single fault, and have little zealfor our daily progress; therefore we remain spiritually cold ortepid.\par \par If only we were completely dead to self, and free from inner conflict, we could savour spiritual things, and win experience of heavenly contemplation. But the greatest, and indeed the whole obstacle to our advance is that we are not free from passions and lusts, nor do we strive to follow the perfect way of the Saints. But when we encounter even a little trouble, we are quickly discouraged, and turn to human comfort.\par \par If we strove to stand firm in the struggle like men of valour, we should not fail to experience the help of our Lord from heaven. For He is ever ready to help all who fight, trusting His grace; He also affords us occasions to fight that we may conquer. If we rely only on the outward observances of religion, our devotioLVALn will rapidly wane. But let us lay the axe to the root (Mat_3:10), that, being cleansed from our passions, we may possess our souls in peace.\par \par If each year we would root out one fault, we should soon become perfect. But, alas, the opposite is often the case, that we were better and purer in the beginning of our conversion than after many years of our profession. Our zeal and virtue would grow daily; but it is now held to be a fine thing if a man retains even a little of his first fervour. If only we would do a little violence to ourselves at first, we would later be able to do everything easily and gladly.\par \par It is hard to give up old habits, and harder still to conquer our own wills. But if you cannot overcome in small and easy things, how will you succeed in greater? Resist your evil inclinations in the beginning, and break off evil habits, lest they gradually involve you in greater difficulties. Oh, if you could only know how great a peace for yourself and how great a joy for your fellows your good endeavour would win, you would have greater care for your spiritual progress.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Uses of Adversity\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par IT is good for us to encounter troubles and adversities from time to time, for trouble often compels a man to search his own heart. It reminds him that he is an exile here, and that he can put his trust in nothing in this world. It is good, too, that we sometimes suffer opposition, and that men think ill of us and misjudge us, even when we do and mean well. Such things are an aid to humility, and preserve us from pride and vainglory. For we more readily turn to God as our inward witness, when men despise us and think no good of us.\par \par A man should therefore place such complete trust in God, that he has no need of comfort from men. When a good man is troubled, tempted, or vexed by evil thoughts, he comes more clearly than ever to realize his need of God, without whom he can do nothing good. Then, as he grieves and laments his lot, he turns to prayer amid his misfortunes. He is weary of life, and longs for death to release him, that he may be dissolved, and be with Christ (Php_1:23). It is then that he knows with certainty that there can be no complete security nor perfect peace in his life.\par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL]w;{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Resisting Temptations\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par So long as we live in this world, we cannot remain without trial and temptation: as Job says, `Man's life on earth is a warfare (Job_7:1). We must therefore be on guard against temptations, and watchful in prayer (1Pe_4:7), that the Devil find no means of deceiving us; for he never rests, but prowls around seeking whom he may devour (1Pe_5:8). No one is so perfect and holy that he is never tempted, and we can never be secure from temptation.\par \par Although temptations are so troublesome and grievous, yet they are often profitable to us, for by them we are humbled, cleansed, and instructed. All the Saints endured many trials and temptations (Act_14:22), and profited by them; but those who could not resist temptations became reprobate, and fell away (Ecclus. 9:11). There is no Order so holy, nor place so secluded, where there are no troubles and temptations.\par \par No man can be entirely free from temptation so long as he lives; for the source of temptation lies within our own nature, since we are born with an inclination towards evil (Jas_1:14) when one temptation or trial draws to a close, another takes its place; and we shall always have something to fight, for man has lost the blessing of original happiness. Many try to escape temptations, only to encounter them more fiercely, for no one can win victory by flight alone; it is only by patience and true humility that we can grow stronger than all our foes.\par \par The man who only avoids the outward occasions of evil, but fails to uproot it in himself, will gain little advantage. Indeed, temptations will return upon him the sooner, and he will find hiLVAL<mself in a worse state than before. Little by little and by patient endurance (Col_1:11) you will overcome them by God's help, better than by your own violence and importunity. Seek regular advice in temptation, and never deal harshly with those who are tempted, but give them such encouragement as you would value yourself.\par \par The beginning of all evil temptation is an unstable mind and lack of trust in God. Just as a ship without a helm is driven to and fro by the waves, so a careless man, who abandons his proper course, is tempted in countless ways. Fire tempers steel (Ecclus. 31:26), and temptation the just man. We often do not know what we can bear, but temptation reveals our true nature. We need especially to be on our guard at the very onset of temptation, for then the Enemy may be more easily overcome, if he is not allowed to enter the gates of the mind: he must be repulsed at the threshold, as soon as he knocks. Thus the poet Ovid writes, `Resist at the beginning; the remedy may come too late (Ovid,Remed,91). For first there comes into the mind an evil thought: next, a vivid picture: then delight, and urge to evil, and finally consent. In this way the Enemy gradually gains complete mastery, when he is not resisted at first. And the longer a slothful man delays resistance, the weaker he becomes, and the stronger his enemy grows against him.\par \par Some people undergo their heaviest temptations at the beginning of their conversion; some towards the end of their course; others are greatly troubled all their lives; while there are some whose temptations are but light. This is in accordance with the wisdom and justice of God's ordinance, who weighs the condition and merits of every man, and disposes all things for the salvation of those whom He chooses.\par \par We must not despair, therefore, when we are tempted, but earnestly pray God to grant us his help in every need. For, as Saint Paul says, `With the temptation, God will provide a way to overcome it, that we may be able to bear i LVAL t( 1Co_10:13). So, let us humble ourselves under the hand of God (Jud1Th_8:17; 1Pe_5:6), in every trial a trouble, for He will save and raise up the humble in spirit (Luk_1:52) all these trials, our progress is tested; in them great merit m be secured, and our virtue become evident. It is no great matter if we are devout and fervent when we have troubles; but if we show patience in adversity, we can make great progress in virtue. Some are spared severe temptation but are overcome in the lesser ones of every day, in order that they may be humble, and learn not to trust in themselves, but to recognize their frailty.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } ^LVALn{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Avoiding Rash Judgements\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Judge yourself, and beware of passing judgement on others. In judging others, we expend our energy to no purpose; we are often mistaken, and easily sin. But if we judge ourselves, our labor is always to our profit. Our judgement is frequently influenced by our personal feelings, and it is very easy to fail in right judgement when we are inspired by private motives. Were God Himself the sole and constant object of our desire, we should not be so easily distressed when our opinions are contradicted.\par \par Very often some inner impulse or outward circumstances draws us to follow it, while many people are always acting in their own interest, although they are not conscious of it. Such appear to enjoy complete tranquillity of mind so long as events accord with their wishes, but at once become distressed and disconsolate when things fall out otherwise. Similarly, differences of opinions and beliefs only too often give rise to quarrels among friends and neighbors, and even between religious and devout people.\par \par Old habits are hard to break, and no one is easily weaned from his own opinions; but if you rely on your own reasoning and ability rather than on the virtue of submission to Jesus Christ (Php_3:21) you will but seldom and slowly attain wisdom. For God wills that we become perfectly obedient to Himself, and that we transcend mere reason on the wings of a burning love for Him.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Deeds Inspired by Love\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par No motive, even that of affection for anyone, can justify the doing of evil. But to help someone in need, a good work may sometimes be left, or a better undertaken in its place. For in so doing, the good work is not lost, but changed for what is better. Without love, the outward work is of no value; but whatever is done out of love, be it never so little, is wholly fruitful. For God regards the greatness of the love that prompts a man, rather than the greatness of his achievement.\par \par Whoever loves much, does much. Whoever does a thing well, does much. And he does well, who serves the community before his own interests. Often an apparently loving action really springs from worldly motives; for natural inclination, self-will, hope of reward, and our own self-interest will seldom be entirely absent.\par \par Whoever is moved by true and perfect love is never self-seeking, but desires only that God's glory may be served in all things. He envies none, for he seeks no pleasure for himself, nor does he act for self-gratification, but desires above all good things to merit the blessing of God. All good he ascribes not to men, but to God, from whom all things proceed as from their source, and in whom all the Saints enjoy perfection and peace. Oh, if only a man had a spark of true love in his heart, he would know for certain that all earthly things are full of vanity.\par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL/@{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Bearing with the Faults of Others\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Whatever a man is unable to correct in himself or in others, he should bear patiently until God ordains otherwise. Consider, it is perhaps better thus, for the testing of our patience, without which our merits are of little worth. Whenever such obstacles confront you, pray to God that He may grant you His help, and give you grace to endure them in good heart.(Mat_6:13)\par \par If anyone who has been once or twice warned remains obdurate, do not argue with him, but commit all things to God, that His will may be done, and His Name hallowed in all His servants; for He knows well how to bring good out of evil(Gen_50:20) Strive to be patient; bear with the faults and frailties of others, for you, too, have many faults which others have to bear. If you cannot mould yourself as you would wish, how can you expect other people to be entirely to your liking? For we require other people to be perfect, but do not correct our own faults.\par \par We wish to see others severely reprimanded; yet we are unwilling to be corrected ourselves. We wish to restrict the liberty of others, but are not willing to be denied anything ourselves. We wish others to be bound by rules, yet we will not let ourselves be bound. It is amply evident, therefore, that we seldom consider our neighbour in the same light as ourselves. Yet, if all men were perfect, what should we have to bear with in others for Christ's sake?\par \par Now, God has thus ordered things that we may learn to bear one another's burdens;(Gal_6:2) for there is no man without his faults, none without his burden.(Gal_6:5) None is sufficient in himself;(2Co_3:5)  LVAL none is wise in himself;(Pro_3:7) therefore we must support one another,(Col_3:13) comfort(1Th_5:11), help, teach, and advise one another. Times of trouble best discover the true worth of a man; they do not weaken him, but show his true nature.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } TLVALd{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Monastic Life\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par If you wish to live in peace and harmony with others, you must learn to discipline yourself in many ways. It is not easy to live in a Religious Community and remain there without fault,(Php_3:6) persevering faithfully until death(Rev_2:10) Blessed is he who has thus lived happily and well to the end. If you wish to achieve stability and grow in grace, remember always that you are an exile and pilgrim on this earth(1Pe_2:11;Heb_11:13) Be content to be accounted a fool for Christ's sake(1Co_4:10) if you wish to be a Religious.\par \par The habit and tonsure by themselves are of small significance; it is the transformation of one's way of life and the complete mortification of the passions that make a true Religious. He who seeks in this life anything but God alone and the salvation of his soul will find nothing but trouble and grief.(Ecclus 1:17:Ecclus 1:18) Nor can any remain long at peace who does not strive to be the least(Luk_22:26) and servant of all(1Pe_2:13).\par \par You have come here to serve, not to rule. Remember that you are called to labour and endurance, not to pass your time in idleness and gossip, for in this life men are tried like gold in the furnace(Wisd. 3:6). No one can remain here, unless he is ready to humble himself with all his heart for love God.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL"C{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Examples of the Holy Fathers\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Consider the glowing examples of the holy Fathers, in whom shone true religion and perfection; compared with them, we do little or nothing. Alas, how can our life be compared with theirs! The Saints and friends of Christ served Our Lord in hunger and thirst, in cold and nakedness, in toil and weariness: in watching and fasting, in prayer and meditation, in persecutions and insults without number(Heb_9:38;1Co_4:11).\par \par How countless and constant were the trials endured by the Apostles, Martyrs, Confessors, Virgins, and all those others who strove to follow in the footsteps of Christ. These all hated their lives in this world, that they might keep them to life eternal(Joh_12:35). How strict and self-denying was the life of the holy Fathers in the desert! How long and grievous the temptations they endured! How often they were assaulted by the Devil! How frequent and fervent their prayers to God! How strict their fasts! How great their zeal and ardor for spiritual progress! How valiant the battles they fought to overcome their vices! How pure and upright their intention towards God!\par \par All day long they labored, and the night they gave to continuous prayer; even as they worked, they never ceased from mental prayer. They spent all their time with profit, every hour seeming short in the service of God. They often forgot even their bodily needs in the great sweetness of contemplation. They renounced all riches, dignities, honors, friends and kindred; they desired to possess nothing in this world. Scarcely would they take the necessities of life, and only with reluctance would they provide for LVALthe needs of the body. Thus, though destitute of earthly goods, they were abundantly rich in grace and all virtues. Outwardly they were poor, but inwardly they were refreshed with grace and heavenly consolation. They were strangers to the world, but to God they were dear and familiar friends(Exo_33:11). To themselves they were nothing, but in the eyes of God they were precious and beloved. Grounded in true humility, they lived in simple obedience, they walked in charity and patience;(Eph_5:2) and thus daily increased in the Spirit, and received great grace from God. They were given for an example to all Religious, and they should encourage us to advance in holiness, rather than the lukewarm should incline us to laxness.\par \par How deep was the fervor of all Religious at the foundation of their Order! How great was their devotion in prayer, and their zeal for virtue! How strict was their observance of the Rule! What respect and obedience to the direction of the Superior flourished in those days! Their examples still witness that they were indeed holy and perfect men, who fought valiantly, and trampled the world under their feet. But in these days, any who is not a breaker of rules, or who obeys with patience is accounted outstanding!\par \par Oh, the carelessness and coldness of this present time! Sloth and luke warmness makes life wearisome for us, and we soon lose our early fervor! May the longing to grow in grace not remain dormant in you, who have been privileged to witness so many examples of the holy life.\par \par 1. Wisd 3:6 4. Exod. 33, ll.\par \par 2. Heb_11:38; 5. Ephes. 5, 2.\par \par 1Co_4:11\par \par 3. Joh_12:25\par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL1E{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Practices of a Good Religious\par \par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22 The life of a good Religious should shine with all the virtues, that he may be inwardly as he appears outwardly to men. Indeed, there should rightly be far more inward goodness than appears outwardly, for God Himself searches all hearts. We must revere Him above all things, and live purely in his sight as the angels. Each day we should renew our resolution, and bestir ourselves to fervour, as though it were the first day of our conversion, and say, `Help me, O Lord God, in my good resolve and in your holy service: grant me this day to begin perfectly, for hitherto I have accomplished nothing.'\par \par As our purpose is, so will our spiritual progress be, and we need to be truly diligent if we wish to progress far. For if a man of firm resolution often encounters failure, how can any who seldom makes any firm resolve achieve anything? We fail in our purposes in various ways, and the light omission of our spiritual exercises seldom passes without certain loss to our souls. The resolution of good men depends more on the grace of God than on their own wisdom, and they put their whole trust in Hiin in all their undertakings. Man proposes, but God disposes,(Pro_16:9) and man's destiny is not in his own hands(Jer_10:23).\par \par If any of our proper exercises are omitted in order to perform some act of mercy or help a brother, they may be resumed later. But if they are lightly set aside out of sloth or carelessness, this is blameworthy indeed, and will prove harmful to our souls. Try as we will, we shall still fail all too easily in many things. Nevertheless, we should always have a firm resolve, espeLVALFcially against such faults as most hinder our progress. We should carefully examine and order both our inner and outer life, since both are vital to our advance.\par \par Although we cannot always preserve our recollection, yet we must do so from time to time, and at the least once a day, either in the morning or the evening. In the morning form your intention, and at night examine your conduct, what you have done, said, and thought during the day, for in each of these you may have often offended both God and your neighbour. Arm yourself manfully against the wickedness of the Devil(Eph_6:11); control the appetite, and you will more easily control all bodily desires. Never be entirely idle, but be reading or writing, in prayer or in meditation, or else be engaged in some work for the common good. But undertake manual employments with discretion, for they are not to be practised by all men alike. Those spiritual exercises which are not obligatory should not be made in public; for whatever is purely personal is best done in private.\par \par Take care not to become careless in the common observances, preferring your personal devotions. But when you have fully and faithfully fulfilled all that you are bound to do, then, if there be time left, employ it in your own devotions. All cannot use the same kind of spiritual exercises, but one suits this person, and another that. Different devotions are suited also to the Seasons, some being best for the Festivals, and others for ordinary days. We find some helpful in temptations, others in peace and quietness. Some things we like to consider when we are sad, and others when we are full of joy in the Lord.\par \par At the great Festivals good spiritual exercises should be renewed, and the prayers of the Saints implored more fervently than ever. From one Festival to another we should resolve so to live, as though we were then to depart from this world and come to the heavenly Feast. During holy seasons, therefore, we should prepare ourselves with care, and li LVAL0 ve ever more devoutly, keeping every observance more strictly, as though we were soon to receive the reward of our labours from God Himself.\par \par If this reward be delayed, let us consider that we are not ready or worthy of the great glory which will be revealed (Rom_8:18) us at the appointed time: and let us strive to prepare ourselves better for our departure from this world, `Blessed is the servant,' writes Luke the Evangelist, `whom the Lord, when He comes, will find ready. I tell you truly that He will set over all His possessions(Mat_24:47).\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALH{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Love of Solitude and Silence\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Choose a suitable time for recollection and frequently consider the loving-kindness of God. Do not read to satisfy curiosity or to pass the time, but study such things as move your heart to devotion. If you avoid unnecessary talk and aimless visits, listening to news and gossip, you will find plenty of suitable time to spend in meditation on holy things. The greatest Saints used to avoid the company of men(Heb_11:38) whenever they were able, and chose rather to serve God in solitude. A wise man once said `As often as I have been among men, I have returned home a lesser man.(Seneca,Epist.VII) We often share this experience, when we spend much time in conversation. It is easier to keep silence altogether than not to talk more than we should. It is easier to remain quietly at home than to keep due watch over ourselves in public. Therefore, whoever is resolved to live an inward and spiritual life must, with Jesus, withdraw from the crowds(Mar_6:31). No man can live in the public eye without risk to his soul, unless he who would prefer to remain obscure. No man can safely speak unless he would gladly remain silent. No man can safely command, unless he has learned to obey well. No man can safely rejoice, unless he possesses the testimony of a good conscience.\par \par The security of the Saints was grounded in the fear of God, nor were they less careful and humble because they were resplendent in great virtues and graces. But the security of the wicked springs from pride and presumption, and ends in selfdeception. Never promise yourself security in this life, even though you seem to be a good monk or a devLVALIout hermit.\par \par Those who stand highest in the esteem of men are most exposed to grievous peril, since they often have too great a confidence in themselves. It is therefore, more profitable to many that they should not altogether escape temptations, but be often assailed lest they become too secure and exalted in their pride, or turn too readily to worldly consolations. How good a conscience would he keep if a man never sought after passing pleasures nor became preoccupied with worldly affairs! If only a man could cast aside all useless anxiety and think only on divine and salutary things, how great would be his peace and tranquillity!\par \par No one is worthy of heavenly comfort, unless they have diligently exercised themselves in holy contrition. If you desire heartfelt contrition, enter into your room, and shut out the clamour of the world, as it is written, `Commune with your own heart, and in your chamber, and be still(Psa_4:4;Isa_26:20). Within your cell you will discover what you will only too often lose abroad. The cell that is dwelt in continually becomes a delight, but ill kept it breeds weariness of spirit. If in the beginning of your religious life you have dwelt in it and kept it well, it will later become a dear friend and a welcome comfort.\par \par In silence and quietness the devout soul makes progress and learns the hidden mysteries of the Scriptures(Ecclus. 39:1-3). There she finds floods of tears in which she may nightly wash and be cleansed(Psa_6:6). For the further she withdraws from all the tumult of the world, the nearer she draws to her Maker. For God with His holy angels will draw near to him who withdraws himself from his friends and acquaintances. It is better to live in obscurity and to seek the salvation of his soul, than to neglect this even to work miracles. It is commendable in a Religious, therefore, to go abroad but seldom, to avoid being seen, and to have no desire to see men.\par \par Why do you long to see that which is not lawful for you to possess?$LVAL4 The world itself passes away, and all the desires of it(IJoh_2:17). The desires of the senses call you to roam abroad, but when their hour is spent, what do you bring back but a burdened conscience and a distracted heart? A cheerful going out often brings a sad home-coming, and a merry evening brings a sorry morning. For every bodily pleasure brings joy at first, but at length it bites and destroys.(Pro_23:31; Pro_23:32)\par \par What can you see elsewhere that you cannot see here(Ecclus. 1:10)? Look at the sky, the earth, and all the elements, for of these all things are made. What can you see anywhere under the sun that can endure for long? You hope, perhaps to find complete satisfaction; but this you will never do. Were you to see all things at present in existence spread out before your eyes, what would it be but an unprofitable vision(Ecclus. 2:11)? Lift up your eyes to God on high,(Psa_121:1;Isa_40:26) and beg forgiveness for your sin and neglectfulness. Leave empty matters to the empty-headed, and give your attention to those things that God commands you. Shut your door upon you,(Mat_6:6;Isa_26:20) and call upon Jesus the Beloved. Remain with Him in your cell, for you will not find so great a peace anywhere else. Had you never gone out and listened to idle talk, you would the better have remainedperfectly at peace. But if it pleases you to hear the news of the world, you must always suffer disquiet of heart as a result.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALeUK{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Contrition of Heart\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par If you wish to grow in holiness, you must live in the fear of God(Pro_1:7; Pro_19:23).Do not seek too much freedom, but discipline all your senses, and do not engage in foolish occupations; give yourself rather to contrition of heart, and you will find true devotion. Contrition reveals to us many good things to which dissipation rapidly blinds us. It is a wonder that any man can ever feel perfectly contented with this present life, if he weighs and considers his state of banishment, and the many perils which beset his soul.\par \par Levity of heart and neglect of our faults make us insensible to the proper sorrows of the soul, and we often engage in empty laughter when we should rightly weep. There is no real liberty and true joy, save in the fear of God with a quiet conscience. Happy is he who can set aside every hindering distraction, and recall himself to the single purpose of contrition. Happy is he who abjures whatever may stain or burden his conscience. Fight manfully, for one habit overcomes another. If you are content to let others alone, they will gladly leave you to accomplish your purpose unhindered.\par \par Do not busy yourself with the affairs of others, nor concern yourself with the policies of your superiors. Watch yourself at all times, and correct yourself before you correct your friends. Do not be grieved if you do not enjoy popular favour; grieve rather that you do not live as well and carefully as befits a servant of God, and a devout religious person. It is often better and safer not to have many comforts in this life, especially those of the body. Yet, if we seldom or never feel God's comLVALfort, the fault is our own; for we neither seek contrition of heart, nor entirely forego all vain and outward consolations.\par \par Consider yourself unworthy of God's comfort, but rather deserving of much suffering. When a man is perfectly contrite, this present world becomes grievous and bitter to him. A good man always finds cause for grief and tears; for whether he considers himself or his neighbours, he knows that no man lives without trouble in this life. And the more strictly he examines himself, the more cause he finds for sorrow. Our sins and vices are grounds for rightful sorrow and contrition of heart; for they have so strong a hold on us that we are seldom able to contemplate heavenly things.\par \par If you had more concern for a holy death than a long life, you would certainly be zealous to live better. And were you to ponder in your mind on the pains of Hell and Purgatory,(Mat_25:41) you would readily endure toil and sorrow, and would shrink from no kind of hardship. But because considerations of this kind do not move the heart, we remain cold and unresponsive, clinging to old delights.\par \par It is often our lack of spiritual life that allows our wretched body to rebel so easily. Humbly beg Our Lord, therefore, to grant you the spirit of contrition, and say with the Prophet, `Feed me, O Lord, with the bread of tears, and give me plenteousness of tears to drink(Psa_85:5).\par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALPM{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Human Misery\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Wherever you are and wherever you turn, you will not find happiness until you turn to God. Why are you so distressed when events do not turn out as you wish and hope? Is there anyone who enjoys everything as he wishes? Neither you, nor I, nor anyone else on earth. There is no one in the world without trouble or anxiety, be he King or Pope. Whose, then, is the happiest lot? Surely, he who is able to suffer for love of God.\par \par Many weak and foolish people(Luk_12:19)say, `See what a good life that man enjoys! He is so rich, so great, so powerful, so distinguished!' But raise your eyes to the riches of Heaven, and you will see that all the riches of this world are as nothing. All are uncertain and even burdensome, for they are never enjoyed without some anxiety or fear. The happiness of man does not consist in abundance of this world's goods,(Pro_19:1) for a modest share is sufficient for him. The more spiritual a man desires to become, the more bitter does this present life grow for him, for he sees and realizes more clearly the defects and corruptions of human nature. For to eat and drink, to wake and sleep, to rest and labour, and to be subject to all the necessities of nature is a great trouble and affliction to the devout man, who would rather be released and set free from all sin(Rom_7:24;2Co_5:2).\par \par The inner life of man is greatly hindered in this life by the needs of the body. Thus, the Prophet devoutly prays that he may be set free from them, saying, `Lord, deliver me from my necessities(Psa_25:16)! Woe to those who refuse to recognize their own wretchedness, and doubly woe to those who love this miLVALNserable and corruptible life(Rom_8:21)! For some cling so closely to it, that although by working or begging they can hardly win the bare necessities, they would yet be willing to live here for ever if it were possible, caring nothing for the Kingdom of God.\par \par How crazy and lacking in faith are such people, who are so deeply engrossed in earthly affairs that they care for nothing but material things!(Rom_8:5) These unhappy wretches will at length know to their sorrow how vile and worthless were the things that they loved. But the Saints of God and all the devoted friends of Christ paid little heed to bodily pleasures, nor to prosperity in this life, for all their hopes and aims were directed towards those good things that are eternal.(1Pe_1:4) Their whole desire raised them upward to things eternal and invisible, so that the love of things visible could not drag them down. My brother, do not lose hope of progress in the spiritual life;(Heb_10:35) you have still time and opportunity.\par \par Why put off your good resolution? Rise and begin this very moment, and say, `Now is the time to be up and doing; now is the time to fight; now is the time to amend.(2Co_6:2) When things go badly and you are in trouble, then is the time to win merit. You must pass through fire and water, before you can come into the place of rest.(Psa_66:11) You will never overcome your vices, unless you discipline yourself severely. For so long as we wear this frail body, we cannot be without sin, nor can we live without weariness and sorrow. We would gladly be free from all troubles; but since we have lost our innocence through sin, we have also lost true happiness. We must therefore have patience(Heb_10:36) and wait for God's mercy, until this wickedness pass away, and death be swallowed up in life.(2Co_5:4)\par \par How great is the frailty of man, ever prone to evil!(Gen_6:5) Today you confess your sins; tomorrow you again commit the very sins you have confessed! Now you resolve to guard against them, and within t LVAL he hour you act as though you had never made any resolution! Remembering, then, our weakness and instability, it is proper to humble ourselves, and never to have a high opinion of ourselves. For we can easily lose by carelessness that which by God's grace and our own efforts we had hardly won.\par \par What will become of us in the end if our zeal so quickly grows cold? Unhappy our fate, if we rest on our oars as though we had already reached a haven of peace and security,(1Th_5:3) when in fact no sign of holiness is apparent in our lives. It would be good for us to be instructed once more, like good novices, in the ways of the good life; there would then be some hope of our future improvement and greater spiritual progress.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALP{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 A Meditation on Death\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Very soon the end of your life will be at hand: consider, therefore, the state of your soul. Today a man is here; tomorrow he is gone.(I Macc. 2:63) And when he is out of sight, he is soon out of mind. Oh, how dull and hard is the heart of man, which thinks only of the present, and does not provide against the future! You should order your every deed and thought, as though today were the day of your death. Had you a good conscience, death would hold no terrors for you; (Luk_12:37) even so, it were better to avoid sin than to escape death.(Wisd. 4:16) If you are not ready to die today, will tomorrow find you better prepared?(Mat_24:44) Tomorrow is uncertain; and how can you be sure of tomorrow? Of what use is a long life, if we amend so little? Alas, a long life often adds to our sins rather than to our virtue!\par \par Would to God that we might spend a single day really well! Many recount the years since their conversion, but their lives show little sign of improvement. If it is dreadful to die, it is perhaps more dangerous to live long. Blessed is the man who keeps the hour of his death always in mind, and daily prepares himself to die. If you have ever seen anyone die, remember that you, too, must travel the same road.(Heb_9:27)\par \par Each morning remember that you may not live until evening; and in the evening, do not presume to promise yourself another day. Be ready at all times,(Luk_21:36) and so live that death may never find you unprepared. Many die suddenly and unexpectedly; for at an hour that we do not know the Son of Man will come.(Mat_24:44) When your last hour strikes, you will begin to think veLVALQry differently of your past life, and grieve deeply that you have been so careless and remiss.\par \par Happy and wise is he who endeavours to be during his life as he wishes to be found at his death. For these things will afford us sure hope of a happy death; perfect contempt of the world; fervent desire to grow in holiness; love of discipline; the practice of penance; ready obedience; selfdenial; the bearing of every trial for the love of Christ. While you enjoy health, you can do much good; but when sickness comes, little can be done. Few are made better by sickness, and those who make frequent pilgrimages seldom acquire holiness by so doing.\par \par Do not rely on friends and neighbours, and do not delay the salvation of your soul to some future date, for men will forget you sooner than you think. It is better to make timely provision and to acquire merit in this life, than to depend on the help of others. And if you have no care for your own soul, who will have care for you in time to come? The present time is most precious; now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation.(2Co_6:2) It is sad that you do not employ your time better, when you may win eternal life hereafter. The time will come when you will long for one day or one hour in which to amend; and who knows whether it will be granted?\par \par Dear soul, from what peril and fear you could free yourself, if you lived in holy fear, mindful of your death. Apply yourself so to live now, that at the hour of death, you may be glad and unafraid. Learn now to die to the world, that you may begin to live with Christ.(Rom_6:8) Learn now to despise ail earthly things, that you may go freely to Christ. Discipline your body now by penance, that you may enjoy a sure hope of salvation.\par \par Foolish man, how can you promise yourself a long life, when you are not certain of a single day?(Luk_12:20) How many have deceived themselves in this way, and been snatched unexpectedly from life! You have often heard how this man was slain by the BLVALRsword; another drowned; how another fell from a high place and broke his neck; how another died at table how another met his end in play. One perishes by fire, another by the sword, another from disease, another at the hands of robbers. Death is the end of all men (Ecc_7:2) and the life of man passes away suddenly as a shadow.(Psa_39:7; Psa_144:4)\par \par Who will remember you when you are dead? Who will pray for you? Act now, dear soul; do all you can; for you know neither the hour of your death, nor your state after death. While you have time, gather the riches of everlasting life.(Luk_12:33; Gal_6:8) Think only of your salvation, and care only for the things of God. Make friends now, by honouring the Saints of God and by following their example, that when this life is over, they may welcome you to your eternal home.(Luk_16:9)\par \par Keep yourself a stranger and pilgrim upon earth,(1Pe_2:11), to whom the affairs of this world are of no concern. Keep your heart free and lifted up to God, for here you have no abiding city.(Heb_13:14) Daily direct your prayers and longings to Heaven, that at your death your soul may merit to pass joyfully into the presence of God.\par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALS{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Judgement and the Punishment of Sinners\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Always keep in mind your last end, and how you will stand before the just Judge (Heb_10:31) from whom nothing is hid, who cannot be influenced by bribes and excuses, and who judges with justice (Isa_11:4). O wretched and foolish sinner, who tremble before the anger of man, how will you answer to God (Job_31:14) who knows all your wickedness? Why do you not prepare yourself against the Day of judgement, when no advocate can defend or excuse you, but each man will be hard put to answer for himself? While you live, your labor is profitable and your tears acceptable, for sorrow both cleanses the soul and makes peace with God.\par \par The patient man undergoes a great and wholesome purgation; while suffering injuries, he grieves yet more for the malice of others than for his own wrongs; he gladly prays for his enemies, and from his heart forgives their offences; he does not hesitate to ask pardon of others; he is more easily moved to compassion than to anger; he rules himself with strictness, and endeavors to make the body subject to the spirit in all things. It is better to expiate our sins and overcome our vices now, than to reserve them for purgation hereafter; but we deceive ourselves by our inordinate love of the body.\par \par What will the flames feed upon, but your sins? The more you spare yourself now, and indulge the desires of the body, the more severe will be your punishment hereafter, and the more fuel you gather for the flames. In whatever things a man sins, in those will he be the more severely punished (Wisd. 11:17). Then will the slothful be spurred by fiery goads, and the gluttLVALTonous tormented by dire hunger and thirst. Then will the luxurious and pleasure-loving be plunged into burning pitch and stinking sulphur, while the envious will howl their grief like wild dogs.\par \par There is no vice that will not receive its proper retribution. The proud will be subjected to the deepest humiliation, and the greedy experience misery and want. One hour's punishment then will be more bitter than a century of penance on earth. There will be neither rest nor comfort for the damned; but here we sometimes enjoy rest from our toil, and enjoy the comfort of our friends. Therefore, live rightly now, and grieve for your sins, that in the Day of judgement you may stand secure in the company of the Blessed. For then shall the righteous stand with great boldness before those who have afflicted and oppressed them(Wisd. 5:1). Then will he who now submits humbly to the judgement of man stand to judge others. Then will the poor and humble have great confidence, while the proud are encompassed by fears on every side.\par \par It will then be seen that he who learned to be counted a fool and despised for Christ's sake in this world was indeed wise (1Co_4:10). Then will he be glad for every trial patiently borne, and the mouth of the wicked will be sealed (Psa_107:42). Then will every devout man be glad and the ungodly grieve.\par \par Then will he who kept his body in subjection (I Col_9:27) have greater joy than he who lavished every pleasure upon it. Then will the rags of the poor shinewith splendour, and the gorgeous raiment become tarnished.\par \par Then will the humble cottage of the poor be preferred to the gilded palace. Then will steadfast patience be of more avail than all worldly power. Then will humble obedience be exalted above all wordly cunning. Then will a good and clean conscience bring more joy than learned philosophy. Then will contempt for riches far outweigh all the treasures of the world. Then will devout prayer yield greater pleasure than fine fare. Then will you rejoiLVALce more in having kept silence than in much talking. Then will holy deeds count for more than fine words. Then will a disciplined life and hard penance prove of more worth than all worldly delights.\par \par Learn to endure a little now, that you may spare yourself more grievous troubles. Prove here what you can endure hereafter. If you can endure so little now, how could you endure the pains of hell? Be assured that a man cannot enjoy both kinds of happiness; he cannot enjoy all the pleasures of this life, and also reign with Christ in Heaven. Moreover, if up to this very day you had lived in enjoyment of all honours and pleasures, how would all these profit you if you were to die at this moment? All, therefore, is vanity, save to love God and serve Him alone. For he who loves God with all his heart fears neither death, punishment, judgement, nor hell; for perfect love enjoys sure access to God (Rom_8:39). But he who continues to delight in wickedness, what wonder is it if he fears death and judgement? Nevertheless, it is good that, if the love of God does not restrain you from sin, the fear of hell at least should restrain you. For he who sets aside the fear of God cannot long continue in a good life, but will rapidly fall into the snares of the Devil.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL(V{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Zealous Amendment of our Life\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Be watchful (2Tim. 4:5) and diligent in the service of God, and frequently consider why you are come here, and why you have renounced the world. Was it not that you might live to God, and become a spiritual man? Endeavour, then, to make progress, and you will soon receive the reward of your labours; then neither fear nor sorrow will be able to trouble you. Labour for a short while now, and you will find great peace of soul, and everlasting joy. If you remain faithful in all your doings, be sure that God will be faithful and generous in rewarding you(Ecclus 51:30). Keep a firm hope that you will win the victor's crown; but do not be over confident, lest you become indolent and selfsatisfied.\par \par There was once a man who was very anxious, and wavered between fear and hope. One day, overcome with sadness, he lay prostrate in prayer before the altar in church, and pondering these matters in his mind, said, ` Oh, if only I knew that I should always persevere!' then he heard within his heart an answer from God: `If you knew this, what would you do? Do now what you would then, and all will be well.' So, comforted and strengthened, he committed himself to the will of God, and his anxious uncertainty vanished. Nor did he wish any longer to inquire into what would happen to him, but strove the more earnestly to learn the perfect and acceptable will of God,(Rom_12:2) whenever he began or undertook any good work(2Ti_3:17).\par \par `Hope in the Lord, and do good,' says the Prophet: `dwell in the land, and you shall be fed with its riches (Psa_37:3). There is one thing that deters many in their spiritual LVALWprogress and zeal for amendment, namely, fear of the difficulties and the cost of victory. But rest assured that those who grow in virtue beyond their fellows are they who fight most manfully to overcome whatever is most difficult and distasteful to them. For the more completely a man overcomes and cleanses himself in spirit, the more he profits and deserves abundant grace.\par \par All men do not have the same things to overcome and mortify. But whoever is diligent and zealous - even though he has stronger passions to subdue - will certainly make greater progress than another, who is naturally self-controlled, but less zealous for holiness. Two things in particular are a great help to amendment of life - a forcible withdrawal from any vice to which our nature inclines, and a fervent pursuit of any grace of which we stand in particular need. Especially study to avoid and overcome those things that most displease you in other people.\par \par Strive to progress in all things, and let any examples that you see or hear inspire you to imitate them. But if you observe anything blameworthy, take care not to do the same yourself. And should you ever have done so, amend your conduct without delay. As you observe others, so do others observe you (Mat_7:3). How glad and pleasant it is to see fervent and devout brethren observing good manners and good discipline (Eph_5:2). And how sad and painful to see any who are disorderly and fail to live up to their calling. How harmful it is, if they neglect the true purpose of their vocation, and turn to matters that are not their proper concern.\par \par Remember your avowed purpose, and keep ever before you the likeness of Christ crucified. As you meditate on the life of Jesus Christ, you should grieve that you have not tried more earnestly to conform yourself to Him, although you have been a long while in the way of God. A Religious who earnestly and devoutly contemplates the most holy Life and Passion of Our Lord will find it in an abundance of all things profitLVALXable and needful to him, nor need he seek any other model than Jesus. Oh, if Jesus Crucified would come into our hearts, how quickly and fully we should be instructed!\par \par A zealous Religious readily accepts and obeys all commands. But a careless and lukewarm Religious has trouble after trouble, and finds sorrow on every side because he lacks true inward consolation, and is forbidden to seek it outside. Therefore a Religious who disregards his Rule exposes himself to dreadful ruin. And he who desires an easier and undisciplined life will always be unstable, for one thing or another will always displease him.\par \par Observe how many behave, who live strictly under the monastic discipline. They seldom go out, they live retired, they eat the poorest food; they work hard, they talk little, they keep long watches; they rise early, they spend much time in prayer, they study much, and always guard themselves with discipline. Consider the Carthusians, the Cistercians, and the monks and nuns of the various orders, how they rise each night to sing praises to Our Lord. Were you slothful, this should shame you, when so great a company of Religious are beginning the praises of God.\par \par Would that our sole occupation were the perpetual praise of the Lord our God with heart and voice! Had you no need of food, drink or rest, you could praise God without ceasing, and give yourself wholly to spiritual things. You would be far happier than now, when you are compelled to serve the needs of the body. Would that these needs did not exist, so that we might enjoy the spiritual feasts of the soul, which, alas, we taste so seldom.\par \par When a man no longer seeks his comfort from any creature, then he first begins to enjoy God perfectly, and he will be well content with whatever befalls him. Then he will neither rejoice over having much, nor grieve over having little, but will commit himself fully and trustfully to God, who is All (I Col_3:11) in all. to him: in Him nothing perishes or dies, for all thinLVALgs live for Him and serve His will continually.\par \par Always remember your end,(Ecclus. 7:36) and that lost time never returns. Without care and diligence, you will never acquire virtue. If you begin to grow careless, all will begin to go amiss with you. But if you give yourself to prayer, you will find great peace, and your toil will grow lighter by the help of God's grace and your love of virtue. The fervent and sincere man is prepared for anything. The war against our vices and passions is harder than any physical toil; and whoever fails to overcome his lesser faults will gradually fall into greater (Ecclus. 19:1) Your evenings will always be tranquil if you have spent the day well. Watch yourself, bestir yourself, admonish yourself; and whatever others may do, never neglect your own soul. The stricter you are with yourself, the greater is your spiritual progress.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALlZ{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 Counsels on the Inner Life\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par 'The Kingdom of God is within you,(Luk_17:21) says Our Lord. Turn to the Lord with all your heart,(Joe_2:12) forsake this sorry world, and your soul shall find rest (Mat_11:29). Learn to turn from worldly things, and give yourself to spiritual things, and you will see the Kingdom of God come within you. For the Kingdom is peace and joy in the Holy Spirit;(Rom_14:17) these are not granted to the wicked. Christ will come to you, and impart his consolations to you, if you prepare a worthy dwelling for Him in your heart. All true glory and beauty is within,(Psa_45:14) and there He delights to dwell. He often visits the spiritual man, and holds sweet discourse with him, granting him refreshing grace, great peace, and friendship exceeding all expectation.\par \par Come then, faithful soul; prepare your heart for your Divine Spouse, that He may deign to come to you and dwell with you. For He says, `If any man love Me, he will keep My word; and We will come and make Our abode with him(Joh_14:23). Therefore welcome Christ, and deny entrance to all others. When you possess Christ, you are amply rich, and He will satisfy you. He will dispose and provide for you faithfully in everything, so that you need not rely on man. For men soonchange and fail you; but Christ abides for ever,(Joh_12:34) and stands firmly by you to the end.\par \par Never place your whole trust and reliance in weak and mortal man, however helpful and dear to you he may be; nor should you grieve overmuch if sometimes he opposes and contradicts you. Those who take your part today may tomorrow oppose you; for men are as changeable as the weather. Put LVAL[your whole trust in God;(Pro_3:5; 1Pe_5:7) direct your worship and love to Him alone. He will defend you, and will dispose all things for the best. Here you have no abiding city,(Heb_13:14) and wherever you may be, you are a stranger and pilgrim;(Heb_11:13) you will never enjoy peace until you become inwardly united to Christ.\par \par What do you seek here, since this world is not your resting place? Your true home is in Heaven;(Php_3:20) therefore remember that all the things of this world are transitory. All things are passing, and yourself with them. See that you do not cling to them, lest you become entangled and perish with them. Let all your thoughts be with the Most High, and direct your humble prayers unceasingly to Christ. If you cannot contemplate high and heavenly things, take refuge in the Passion of Christ, and love to dwell within His Sacred Wounds. For if you devoutly seek the Wounds of Jesus and the precious marks of His Passion, you will find great strength in all troubles. And if men despise you, you will care little, having small regard for the words of your detractors.\par \par Christ Himself was despised by men, and in His direst need was abandoned by his friends and acquaintances to the insults of His enemies. Christ was willing to suffer and to be despised; and do you presume to complain? Christ had enemies and slanderers; and do you expect all men to be your friends and benefactors? How will your patience be crowned, if you are not willing to endure hardship? Suffer with Christ, and for Christ, if you wish to reign with Christ (2Ti_2:12).\par \par Had you but once entered perfectly into the Heart of Jesus and tasted something of His burning love, you would care nothing for your own gain or loss; for the love of Jesus causes a man to regard himself very humbly. The true, inward lover of Jesus and the Truth, who is free from inordinate desires,can turn freely to God, rise above self, and joyfully rest in God.\par \par He who knows all things at their true worth, and not LLVAL\as they are said or reputed to be, is truly wise,(Isa_54:13) for his knowledge comes from God, and not from man. He who walks by an inner light, and is not unduly influenced by outward things, needs no special time or place for his prayers. For the man of inner life easily recollects himself, since he is never wholly immersed in outward affairs. Therefore his outward occupations and needful tasks do not distract him, and he adjusts himself to things as they come. The man whose inner life is well-ordered and disposed is not troubled by the strange and perverse ways of others; for a man is hindered and distracted by such things only so far as he allows himself to be concerned by them.\par \par If your inner life were rightly ordered and your heart pure, all things would turn to your good and advantage (Rom_8:28). As it is, you are often displeased and disturbed, because you are not yet completely dead to self, nor detached from all worldly things. Nothing defiles and ensnares the heart of man more than a selfish love of creatures. If you renounce all outward consolation, you will be able to contemplate heavenly things, and often experience great joy of heart.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\cf1\lang1033\kerning32\f0\fs23\par } {\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Humble Submission to God\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Do not be concerned overmuch who is with you or against you, but work and plan that God may be with you in all that you do (Rom_8:31). Keep a clean conscience, and God will mightily defend you; for whoever enjoys the protection of God cannot be harmed by the malice of man. If you learn to sufferin silence, you may be sure of receiving God's help (2Co_7:6). He knows the time and the way to deliver you; so trust yourself entirely to His care. God is strong to help you, and to free you from all confusion. It is often good for us that others know and expose our faults, for so may we be kept humble.\par \par When a man humbly admits his faults, he soon appeases his fellows, and is reconciled to those whom he had offended. God protects and delivers a humble man; He loves and comforts him (1Pe_5:5; Jas_4:6). To the humble He leans down and bestows great success, raising him from abasement to honour. To him He reveals His secrets (Mat_9:25) and lovingly calls and draws him to Himself. Even in the midst of trouble, the humble man remains wholly at peace, for he trusts in God, and not in the world. Do not consider yourself to have made any spiritual progress, unless you account yourself the least of all men.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALo^{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Good and Peaceful Man\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Firstly, be peaceful yourself, and you will be able to bring peace to others. A man of peace does more good than a very learned man. A passionate man turns even good into evil, and readily listens to evil; but a good and peaceable man turns all things to good. He who is truly at peace thinks evil of no one; but he who is discontented and restless is tormented by suspicions beyond number. He has no peace in himself, nor will he allow others any peace. He often says what he ought not to say, and leaves undone what he should have done. He takes note how other people carry out their duties, but neglects his own. Therefore, before all else, attend diligently to your own affairs; then you may properly be concerned for your neighbor also.\par \par You readily excuse and explain your own doings, but you will not accept the explanations of others. It would be more just to accuse yourself, and to excuse your fellows. If you wish others to bear with you, you must bear with them (Gal_6:2; 1Co_13:7; Eph_4:2). See how far you still are from true charity and humility, which feels neither anger nor indignation towards any save itself. It is no great matter to associate with the good and gentle, for this is naturally pleasant to everyone. All men are glad to live at peace, and prefer those who are of their own way of thinking. But to be able to live at peace among hard, obstinate, and undisciplined people and those who oppose us, is a great grace, and a most commendable and manly achievement.\par \par There are some who remain at peace with themselves and also with others (Rom_12:18; 2Co_13:2) And some neither have peace  LVAL in themselves nor allow others to have peace. Such people are a trouble to others, and an even greater trouble to themselves. And there are some who are at peace with themselves, and who try to guide others into peace. But all our peace in this present life should depend on humble forbearance rather than on absence of adversity. He who knows the secret of endurance will enjoy the greatest peace. Such a one is conqueror of self, master of the world, a friend of Christ, and an heir of Heaven.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL `{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Purity of Mind and Simplicity of Purpose\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par There are two wings that raise a man above earthly things, simplicity and purity. Simplicity must inspire his purpose and purity his affection. Simplicity reaches out after God; purity discovers and enjoys Him. No good deed will prove an obstacle to you if you are inwardly free from uncontrolled desires. And if you are free from uncontrolled desires, and seek nothing but the Will of God and the good of your neighbor, you will enjoy this inner freedom. If your heart be right, then every created thing will become for you a mirror of life and a book of holy teaching. For there is nothing created so small and mean that it does not reflect the goodness of God.\par \par Were you inwardly good and pure, you would see and understand all things clearly and without difficulty. A pure heart penetrates both heaven and hell. As each man is in himself, so does he judge outward things. If there is any joy to be had in this world, the pure in heart most surely possess it; and if there is trouble and distress anywhere,(Rom_2:9) the evil conscience most readily experiences it. Just as iron, when plunged into fire, loses its rust and becomes bright and glowing, so the man who turns himself wholly to God loses his sloth and becomes transformed into a new creature.\par \par When a man begins to grow dull and lukewarm in spirit, even the smallest labor distresses him, and he eagerly welcomes any worldly comfort. But when he begins to overcome self and advance manfully in God's way, then he regards as nothing those labors which he previously found so burdensome.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par }LVAL LVAL?b{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Knowing Ourselves\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par We may not trust overmuch in ourselves, for we often lack grace and understanding. There is little light in us, and even this we easily lose through carelessness. Moreover, we often do not realize how blind we are. We often do evil, and we do worse in excusing ourselves. Sometimes we are moved by passion, and mistake it for Zeal. We rebuke small faults in others, but overlook greater faults in ourselves (Mat_7:5). We are too quick to resent and feel what we suffer from others, but fail to consider how much others suffer from us. Whoever considers his own defects fully and honestly will find no reason to judge others harshly.\par \par The spiritual man puts the care of his soul before all else; (Mat_16:26) and whoever diligently attends to his own affairs is ready to keep silence about others. You will never become interior and devout unless you refrain from criticism of others, and pay attention to yourself. If you are wholly intent on God and yourself, you will be little affected by anything outside this (1Co_4:3). Where are you when you fail to attend to yourself? And when you have occupied yourself in countless affairs, what have you gained, if you have neglected your soul (Mar_8:36)? If you really desire true peace and union with God, attend to yourself, and set aside all else.\par \par Keep yourself free from all worldly entanglement, and you will make good progress; but if you set great value on any worldly things, it will prove a great obstacle. Let nothing be great, pleasant or desirable to you save God alone, and whatever comes of God. Regard as empty comfort all things that derive from creatures. The so LVALul that loves God regards as worthless all things other than God. God alone is eternal and immeasurable, filling all things; (Jer_23:24) He alone is the true comfort of the soul and joy of the heart.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALqd{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Joys of a Good Conscience\par \par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22 The glory of a good man is the witness of a good conscience (2Co_1:12). Preserve a quiet conscience, and you will always have joy. A quiet conscience can endure much, and remains joyful in all trouble, but an evil conscience is always fearful and uneasy (1Jn_2:31). You may rest easy if your heart does not reproach you, and you are happy only when you have done right. The wicked never know true happiness, nor do they enjoy inward peace, for `There is no peace for the wicked, (Isa_48:22) says the Lord. And although they say, `We are at peace; no evil happens to us, and no one will dare to harm us,' yet God's anger will rise suddenly, all their works will be brought to nothing, and their plans perish.\par \par To glory in suffering is not hard for one who truly loves God, for so to glory is to glory in the Cross of our Lord (Rom_5:3; Gal_5:14). Short-lived is the glory that is granted and received by men, and sorrow is ever its companion. The glory of good men is in their own conscience, not in the tongues of men. For the joy of the Saints is from God and in God, and their joy is in the truth (1Co_13:6). Whoever desires true and lasting glory cares nothing for worldly glory. And whoever craves worldly glory, or who does not at heart despise it, shows himself to have little love for the glory of heaven. Great tranquillity of heart is his who cares for neither praise nor blame.\par \par The man who has a clean conscience rests easily content, and is at peace. You are none the holier for being praised, and none the worse for being blamed. You remain what you are, nor can you be accounted greater than you a LVAL re in the sight of God. If you take heed to what you are inwardly, you will not mind what men say of you; for while man looks on outward appearance, God looks into your heart. Man sees your actions, but God your motives. The sign of a humble soul is always to be doing good, and to think little of oneself. To desire no comfort from creatures is a sign of great purity and inward faith.\par \par When a man seeks no other witness but himself, he shows that he puts his whole trust in God. For, as Saint Paul says, `Not he who commends himself is approved, but he whom God commends (2Co_10:18).' To live inwardly to God, and not to be bound by worldly affections, is the proper state of a spiritual man.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALxf{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Loving Jesus above all Things\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Blessed is he who understands what it is to love Jesus, and to despise himself for Jesus' sake. You must surrender all other love for His love, for Jesus desires to be loved alone, and above all things. The love of creatures is deceptive and unstable; the love of Jesus is faithful and enduring. Whoever clings to any creature will fall with its falling; but he who holds to Jesus shall stand firm for ever. Love Him, therefore, and keep Him as your friend; for when all others desert you, He will not abandon you, nor allow you to perish at the last. Whether you wish it or not, you must in the end be parted from them all.\par \par Hold fast to Jesus, both in life and death, and trust yourself to His faithfulness, for He alone can aid you when all others fail. Your Beloved is of such a nature that He will not share your love with another: He desires your heart for Himself alone, and to reign there as a King on His throne. If you could empty your heart of all creatures, Jesus would delight to dwell with you(Joh_15:4). Whatever trust you place in men rather than in Jesus is almost wholly wasted. Do not trust or lean on a windblown reed (Isa_36:6; Mat_11:7; Luk_7:24), for 'all flesh is as grass, and its glory will fall like the flower of the grass'(Isa_40:6; Ecclus. 14:18; Jas_1:10; 1Pe_1:24).\par \par If you look only to men's outward appearance, you will soon be deceived; for if you seek comfort or gain from others, you will often meet with loss. If you seek Jesus in all things, you will surely find Jesus. And if you seek yourself, you will surely find yourself, but only to your ruin. For a man who does not LVALseek Jesus does himself greater hurt than the whole world and all his enemies could ever do him.\par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALh{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Close Friendship with Jesus\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par When Jesus is with us, all is well, and nothing seems hard but when Jesus is absent, everything is difficult. When Jesus does not speak to the heart, all other comfort is unavailing; but if Jesus speaks but a single word, we are greatly comforted. Did not Mary Magdalene rise at once from the place where she wept, when Martha said, `The Master is come, and is asking for you' (Joh_11:28)? Oh, happy the hour when Jesus calls us from tears to joy of spirit! How arid and hard of heart you are without Jesus! How foolish and empty if you desire anything but Jesus! Surely, this is a greater injury to you than the loss of the whole world!\par \par What can the world offer you, without Jesus? To be without Jesus is hell most grievous; to be with Jesus is to know the sweetness of Heaven. If Jesus is with you, no enemy can harm you. Whoever finds Jesus finds a rich treasure, and a good above every good. He who loses Jesus, loses much indeed, and more than the whole world. Poorest of all men is he who lives without Jesus, and richest of all is he who stands in favor with Jesus.\par \par It is a great art to know how to hold converse with Jesus, and to know how to keep Jesus is wisdom indeed. Be humble and a man of peace, and Jesus will abide with you. But if you turn aside to worldly things, you will soon cause Jesus to leave you, and you will lose His grace. And if you drive Him away and lose Him, with whom may you take refuge, and whom will you seek for your friend? Without a friend, you cannot live happily, and if Jesus is not your best friend, you will be exceedingly sad and lonely; so it is foolish to trust or LVALdelight in any other. It is better to have the whole world as your enemy, than offend Jesus. Therefore, of all dear friends, let Jesus be loved first and above all.\par \par Love all men for Jesus' sake, but Jesus for Himself. Jesus Christ alone is to be loved with an especial love, for He alone is the best and most faithful of friends. In Him and for His sake love both friend and foe, and pray to Him for all of them, that all may know and love Him. Do not wish to become the object of especial praise or love, for this belongs to God alone, who has none like Himself. Do not desire that the heart of anyone be given wholly to yourself, and do not yield yourself wholly to the love of anyone; rather, let Jesus abide in you, and in every good person.\par \par Be pure and free of heart, untrammeled by any created thing. Offer to God a pure and spotless heart, if you wish to be at liberty, and see how gracious the Lord is. Unless His grace draw and guide you, you will never attain this; but once you have cast aside and forsaken all else, you may be united to Him alone. When the grace of God comes to a man, he is strong in all things; but when it departs, he is left poor and weak, and feels abandoned to punishment and sorrow. When this happens to you, do not despair or be discouraged, but accept God's will calmly, bearing all that befalls you for the glory of Christ; for after winter comes summer, night turns to day, and after a storm comes fair weather (Psa_107:29; Mat_8:26).\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\tab\par } LVALj{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Lack of all Comfort\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par It is not difficult to forego human comfort when we enjoy that of God. But it is a great thing to be able to forego all consolation, human or divine, and for God's sake willingly to endure desolation of heart, neither seeking oneself in anything, nor regarding one's own merit. Is it any proof of virtue that you are filled with joy and devotion when God sends His grace? Surely, everyone longs for this; for he rides at ease who is borne up by the grace of God. Is it any wonder that he feels no weariness, when he is carried by the Almighty, and led by the greatest of all Leaders (Deu_1:30)?\par \par We are always glad of comfort, and only with difficulty is a man stripped of self-love. The holy martyr Laurence, with his priest, overcame the world, because he despised all that seemed delightful in the world. For the love of Christ, he patiently allowed God's high-priest Sixtus, whom he dearly loved, to be taken from him. Thus, by love of the Creator, he conquered his love for man, and preferred the will of God to all the comforts of men. So also must you learn to give up even your close and beloved friend for the love of God? And do not grieve when a friend deserts you, for we must all be parted from one another at last.\par \par A man has to undergo a long and fierce inner struggle before he learns fully to master himself, and to direct his whole love towards God. When a man relies on himself, he often comes to rely on human consolations. But the true lover of Christ and the eager seeker after holiness does not fall back on these things, nor does he look for pleasurable sensations, but prefers to endure great LVALktrials and arduous toil for Christ.\par \par When God bestows spiritual comfort, receive it with a grateful heart; but remember that it comes of God's free gift, and not of your own merit. Do not be proud, nor over joyful, nor foolishly presumptuous; rather, be the more humble for this gift, more cautious, and more prudent in all your doings, for this hour will pass, and temptation will follow it. When comfort is withdrawn, do not immediately despair, but humbly and patiently await the will of Heaven; for God is able to restore to you a consolation even richer than before. This is nothing new or strange to those who know the ways of God, for the great Saints and Prophets of old often experienced these changes.\par \par When grace was with him, David once exclaimed, `In my prosperity I said, I shall never be removed'(Psa_30:6). But when grace was withdrawn, he tells what he experienced in himself, adding, `You turned Your face away from me, and I was troubled.' Yet he does not despair in his trouble, but prays to the Lord more earnestly, saying, `To You, O Lord, will I cry, and will make my supplication to my God.' At length, he received the answer to his prayer, and bears witness that he was heard, saying, `The Lord has heard and taken pity on me; the Lord has become my helper.' But in what way? `You have turned my mourning into joy,' he said, `and have surrounded me with gladness.' If this is the experience of great Saints, it is not for us, poor and frail as we are, to despair if we are sometimes fervent and sometimes cold of heart. The Holy Spirit comes and goes, according to His good pleasure; therefore holy Job says, `You visit him early in the morning, and suddenly You chasten him'(Job_7:18).\par \par In what, then, can I place my hope or trust, save in the great mercy of God alone, and in the hope of His heavenly grace (Psa_51:10). For whether I enjoy the company of good men, or devout Brethren, or faithful friends; whether holy books, beautiful treatises, or sweet singing and hymns; all LVALthese are of little help or comfort when I am forsaken by grace and left to my own poverty. At such a time there is no better remedy than patience and submission to the will of God.\par \par I have never found anyone, however religious and devout, who did not sometimes experience withdrawal of grace, or feel a lessening of devotion. And no Saint has ever lived, however highly rapt and enlightened, who did not suffer temptation sooner or later. For he is not worthy of high contemplation who has not suffered some trials for God's sake. Indeed, the temptation that precedes is often a sign of comfort to follow. For heavenly comfort is promised to those who have been tried and tempted. `To him who overcomes,' says God; `I will give to eat of the Tree of Life'(Rev_2:7).\par \par Divine comfort is granted that a man may be the stronger to endure adversity; and temptation follows, lest he become proud of his virtue. The Devil never sleeps, nor is the flesh yet dead; never cease, therefore, to prepare yourself for battle against the unresting enemies who lie in wait for you on all sides.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL-Gm{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Gratitude for God's Grace\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Why do you look for rest, since you are born to work? Dispose yourself to patience rather than comfort, and to the carrying of the cross rather than pleasure. What man of the world would not gladly receive spiritual comfort and joy, if he were sure of retaining it? For spiritual comfort surpasses all worldly delights and bodily pleasures. All worldly pleasures are either vain or unseemly; spiritual joys alone are pleasant and honorable, for they spring from virtue, and are infused by God into the pure of heart. But no man may enjoy these heavenly consolations at will, for temptations are seldom absent for long.\par \par False liberty of mind and overweening self-confidence are a great hindrance to heavenly visitations. God is generous in granting us the grace of comfort; but man does ill in not returning all to God with gratitude. This is why His gifts of grace cannot flow freely in us, because we are ungrateful to the Giver, and do not return them to their Fount and Source. God will always give grace to those who are grateful, but what He grants to the humble is withheld from the proud.\par \par I desire no consolation that would deprive me of contrition, nor do I aspire to any contemplation that might lead me to pride. For not all that is high is holy; nor all that is pleasant, good; nor every desire pure; nor is all that is dear to us pleasing to God. I gladly accept that grace which makes me ever more humble, more reverent, and more ready to renounce self. For whoever is taught by the gift of grace and chastened by its withdrawal will not presume to attribute any good to himself, but will acknowledge LVALhimself poor and devoid of virtue. Render to God whatever is God's, (Mat_22:21) and attribute to yourself whatever is yours; that is, give thanks to God for His grace, and confess that the guilt and penalty of sin are yours alone.\par \par Set yourself always in the lowest place, (Luk_14:10) and you shall be awarded the highest; for the highest cannot stand without the lowest. The Saints stand highest in God's eyes who are lowest in their own; and the more glorious they are, the more humble is their spirit. Filled with truth and heavenly glory, they have no desire for vainglory. Grounded and established in God, they cannot be proud. They ascribe all goodness to God; they seek no glory from one another, but the glory, which comes from God alone (Joh_5:44). They desire above all things, and strive always, that God be praised in themselves and in all His Saints.\par \par Be thankful for the smallest blessing, and you will deserve to receive greater. Value the least gifts no less than the greatest and simple graces as especial favors. If you remember the dignity of the Giver, no gift will seem small or mean, for nothing can be valueless that is given by the most high God. Even if He awards punishment and pain, accept them gladly, for whatever He allows to befall us is always for our salvation. Let whoever desires to retain the grace of God be thankful for the grace given him, and be patient when it is withdrawn. Let him pray for its return, and let him be prudent and humble lest he lose it once more.\par \par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVAL!yo{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Few Lovers of the Cross of Jesus\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par Jesus has many who love His Kingdom in Heaven, but few who bear His Cross (Luk_14:27). He has many who desire comfort, but few who desire suffering. He finds many to share His feast, but few His fasting. All desire to rejoice with Him, but few are willing to suffer for His sake. Many follow Jesus to the Breaking of Bread, but few to the drinking of the Cup of His Passion. Many admire His miracles, but few follow Him in the humiliation of His Cross. Many love Jesus as long as no hardship touches them. Many praise and bless Him, as long as they are receiving any comfort from Him. But if Jesus withdraw Himself, they fall to complaining and utter dejection.\par \par They who love Jesus for His own sake, and not for the sake of comfort for themselves, bless Him in every trial and anguish of heart, no less than in the greatest joy. And were He never willing to bestow comfort on them, they would still always praise Him and give Him thanks.\par \par Oh, how powerful is the pure love of Jesus, free from all self-interest and self-love! Are they not all mercenaries, who are always seeking comfort? Do they not betray themselves as lovers of self rather than of Christ, when they are always thinking of their own advantage and gain? Where will you find one who is willing to serve God without reward?\par \par Seldom is anyone so spiritual as to strip himself entirely of self-love. Who can point out anyone who is truly poor in spirit and entirely detached from creatures? His rare worth exceeds all on earth. If a man gave away all that he possessed, yet it is nothing. And if he did hard penance, still it is lLVAL ittle. And if he attained all knowledge, he is still far from his goal. And if he had great virtue and most ardent devotion, he still lacks much, and especially the `one thing needful to him' (Luk_10:42). And what is this? That he forsakes himself and all else, and completely denies himself, retaining no trace of self-love. And when he has done all that he ought to do, let him feel that he has done nothing.\par \par Let him not regard as great what others might esteem great, but let him truthfully confess himself an unprofitable servant. For these are the words of the Truth Himself: `When you shall have done all those things that are commanded you, say, "We are unprofitable servants" (Luk_17:10). Then he may indeed be called poor and naked in spirit, and say with the Prophet, `I am alone and poor' (Psa_25:16). Yet there is no man richer, more powerful or freer than he who can forsake himself and all else, and set himself in the lowest place.\par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALq{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Royal Road of the Holy Cross\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par `Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Me.'(Mat_16:24) To many this saying of Jesus seems hard. But how much harder will it be to hear that word of doom, `Depart from Me, you cursed, into everlasting fire'. (Mat_25:41) For those who now cheerfully hear and obey the word of the Cross (1Co_1:18) will not tremble to hear the sentence of eternal damnation. The sign of the Cross will appear in the heavens, when Our Lord comes as judge. Then will all the servants of the Cross-, who in their lives conformed themselves to the Crucified, (Rom_8:29) stand with confidence before Christ, their judge.\par \par Why, then, do you fear to take up the Cross-, which is the road to the Kingdom? In the Cross is salvation; in the Cross is life; in the Cross is protection against our enemies; in the Cross is infusion of heavenly sweetness; in the Cross is strength of mind; in the Cross is joy of spirit; in the Cross is excellence of virtue; in the Cross is perfection of holiness. There is no salvation of soul, nor hope of eternal life, save in the Cross. Take up the Cross-, therefore, and follow Jesus, (Mat_16:24) and go forward into eternal life. (Mat_25:46) Christ has gone before you, bearing His Cross; (Joh_19:17) He died for you on the Cross, that you also may bear your cross, and desire to die on the cross with Him. For if you die with Him, you will also live with Him. (Rom_6:8) And if you share His sufferings, you will also share His glory.\par \par See how in the Cross all things consist, and in dying on it all things depend. There is no other way to life and to true inner peace, than the way of the CrossLVALr and of daily self-denial. Go where you will, seek what you will; you will find no higher way above or safer way below than the road of the Holy Cross. Arrange and order all things to your own ideas and wishes, yet you will still find suffering to endure, whether you will or not; so you will always find the Cross. For you will either endure bodily pain, or suffer anguish of mind and spirit.\par \par At times, God will withdraw from you; at times you will be troubled by your neighbor, and, what is more, you will often be a burden to yourself. Neither can any remedy or comfort bring you relief, but you must bear it as long as God wills. For God desires that you learn to bear trials without comfort, that you may yield yourself wholly to Him, and grow more humble through tribulation. No man feels so deeply in his heart the Passion of Christ as he who has to suffer in like manner. The Cross always stands ready, and everywhere awaits you. You cannot escape it, wherever you flee; for wherever you go, you bear yourself, and always find yourself. Look up or down, without you or within, and everywhere you will find the Cross. And everywhere you must have patience, if you wish to attain inner peace, and win an eternal crown.\par \par If you bear the cross willingly, it will bear you and lead you to your desired goal, where pain shall be no more; but it will not be in this life. If you bear the cross unwillingly, you make it a burden, and load yourself more heavily; but you must needs bear it. If you cast away one cross, you will certainly find another, and perhaps a heavier.\par \par Do you think to escape what no mortal man has been able to escape? Which of the Saints lived without cross or trial? Even our Lord Jesus Christ was never without sorrow and pain, as long as He lived. `Christ must needs suffer,' said He, `and rise again from the dead, and so enter into His glory.'(Luk_24:26) Why, then, do you seek any other road than this royal road of the Holy Cross? The whole life of Christ was a cross and maLVALsrtyrdom; and do you look for rest and selfish pleasure?\par \par You are greatly mistaken if you look for anything save to endure trials, for all this mortal life is full of troubles, (Job_14:1) and everywhere marked with crosses. The further a man advances in the spiritual life, the heavier and more numerous he finds the crosses, for his ever-deepening love of God makes more bitter the sorrows of his earthly exile.\par \par Yet a man who is afflicted in many ways is not without solace and comfort, for he perceives the great benefit to be reaped from the bearing of his cross. For while he bears it with a good will, the whole burden is changed into hope of God's comfort. And the more the body is subdued by affliction, the more is the spirit strengthened by grace within. Sometimes he is so greatly comforted by the desire to suffer adversity for love of conforming to the Cross of Christ, that he would not wish to be without grief and pain; (2Co_4:10) for he knows that the more he can suffer for His sake, the more pleasing he will be to God. This desire does not spring from man's own strength, but from the grace of Christ, which can and does effect such great things in the frail frame of man; so that which nature fears and avoids, he boldly meets and loves through ardor of spirit.\par \par Man is not by nature inclined to carry the cross, to love the cross, to chasten the body, and bring it into subjection; (1Co_9:27) to refuse honors, to submit to insults with goodwill, to despise himself and welcome disparagement; to bear all adversity and loss, and to desire no kind of prosperity in this world. And if you trust in your own strength, you will be unable to achieve any of these things. But if you trust in the Lord, you will be given strength from Heaven, and the world and the flesh will become subject to your will. Neither will you fear your enemy the Devil, if you are armed with faith and signed with the Cross of Christ.\par \par Resolve, then, as a good and faithful servant of Christ, manfully tLVALto bear the cross of your Lord, who was crucified for love of you. Prepare yourself to endure many trials and obstacles in this vale of tears; for such will be your lot wherever you are, and you will encounter them wherever you conceal yourself. It must needs be so; nor is there any remedy or means of escape from ills and grief s; you must endure them. Drink lovingly the cup of your Lord, (Mat_20:23) if you wish to be His friend, and to share all with Him. Leave consolations to God, to dispose as He wills. But set yourself to endure trials, regarding them as the greatest of all comforts, `for the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory to come', (Rom_8:18) even though you alone were to endure them all.\par \par When you have arrived at that state when trouble seems sweet and acceptable to you for Christ's sake, then all is well with you, for you have hound paradise upon earth. But so long as suffering is grievous to you and you seek to escape it, so long will it go ill with you, for the trouble you try to escape will pursue you everywhere.\par \par If you steel yourself -, as you must - to suffer and to die, all will go better with you, and you will find peace. For although, like Saint Paul, you were `caught up into the third heaven',(2Co_12:4) you would not on this account be secured against suffering further adversity. For Jesus says, `I will show him how great things he must suffer for My Name.'(Act_9:16) Therefore, be prepared to suffer, if you wish to love Jesus and serve Him forever.\par \par Oh, if only you were worthy to suffer for the Name of Jesus! How great and enduring a glory would be yours! How great would be the joy of the Saints of God! How edified your friends would be! For all men commend patience, although few are willing to suffer. It is right that you should suffer a little for the sake of Christ, since many suffer greater things for worldly motives.\par \par Be assured of this, that you must live a dying life. And the more completely a LVALman dies to self, the more he begins to live to God. (Rom_6:9 ) No man is fit to understand heavenly things, unless he is resigned to bear hardships for Christ's sake. Nothing is more acceptable to God, and nothing more salutary for you, than to suffer gladly for Christ's sake. And if it lies in your choice, you should choose rather to suffer hardships for Christ's sake, than to be refreshed by many consolations; for thus you will more closely resemble Christ and all His Saints. For our merit and spiritual progress does not consist in enjoying such sweetness and consolation, but rather in the bearing of great burdens and troubles.\par \par Had there been a better way, more profitable to the salvation of mankind than suffering, then Christ would have revealed it in His word and life. But He clearly urges both His own disciples and all who wish to follow Him to carry the cross, saying, `If any will come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow Me.'(Mar_8:34) Therefore, when we have read and studied all things, let thus be our final resolve: 'that through much tribulation we must enter the Kingdom of God.'(Act_14:22)\par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALMv{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Royal Road of the Holy Cross\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par `Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Me.'(Mat_16:24) To many this saying of Jesus seems hard. But how much harder will it be to hear that word of doom, `Depart from Me, you cursed, into everlasting fire'. (Mat_25:41) For those who now cheerfully hear and obey the word of the Cross (1Co_1:18) will not tremble to hear the sentence of eternal damnation. The sign of the Cross will appear in the heavens, when Our Lord comes as judge. Then will all the servants of the Cross-, who in their lives conformed themselves to the Crucified, (Rom_8:29) stand with confidence before Christ, their judge.\par \par Why, then, do you fear to take up the Cross-, which is the road to the Kingdom? In the Cross is salvation; in the Cross is life; in the Cross is protection against our enemies; in the Cross is infusion of heavenly sweetness; in the Cross is strength of mind; in the Cross is joy of spirit; in the Cross is excellence of virtue; in the Cross is perfection of holiness. There is no salvation of soul, nor hope of eternal life, save in the Cross. Take up the Cross-, therefore, and follow Jesus, (Mat_16:24) and go forward into eternal life. (Mat_25:46) Christ has gone before you, bearing His Cross; (Joh_19:17) He died for you on the Cross, that you also may bear your cross, and desire to die on the cross with Him. For if you die with Him, you will also live with Him. (Rom_6:8) And if you share His sufferings, you will also share His glory.\par \par See how in the Cross all things consist, and in dying on it all things depend. There is no other way to life and to true inner peace, than the way of the CrossLVALw and of daily self-denial. Go where you will, seek what you will; you will find no higher way above or safer way below than the road of the Holy Cross. Arrange and order all things to your own ideas and wishes, yet you will still find suffering to endure, whether you will or not; so you will always find the Cross. For you will either endure bodily pain, or suffer anguish of mind and spirit.\par \par At times, God will withdraw from you; at times you will be troubled by your neighbor, and, what is more, you will often be a burden to yourself. Neither can any remedy or comfort bring you relief, but you must bear it as long as God wills. For God desires that you learn to bear trials without comfort, that you may yield yourself wholly to Him, and grow more humble through tribulation. No man feels so deeply in his heart the Passion of Christ as he who has to suffer in like manner. The Cross always stands ready, and everywhere awaits you. You cannot escape it, wherever you flee; for wherever you go, you bear yourself, and always find yourself. Look up or down, without you or within, and everywhere you will find the Cross. And everywhere you must have patience, if you wish to attain inner peace, and win an eternal crown.\par \par If you bear the cross willingly, it will bear you and lead you to your desired goal, where pain shall be no more; but it will not be in this life. If you bear the cross unwillingly, you make it a burden, and load yourself more heavily; but you must needs bear it. If you cast away one cross, you will certainly find another, and perhaps a heavier.\par \par Do you think to escape what no mortal man has been able to escape? Which of the Saints lived without cross or trial? Even our Lord Jesus Christ was never without sorrow and pain, as long as He lived. `Christ must needs suffer,' said He, `and rise again from the dead, and so enter into His glory.'(Luk_24:26) Why, then, do you seek any other road than this royal road of the Holy Cross? The whole life of Christ was a cross and maLVALxrtyrdom; and do you look for rest and selfish pleasure?\par \par You are greatly mistaken if you look for anything save to endure trials, for all this mortal life is full of troubles, (Job_14:1) and everywhere marked with crosses. The further a man advances in the spiritual life, the heavier and more numerous he finds the crosses, for his ever-deepening love of God makes more bitter the sorrows of his earthly exile.\par \par Yet a man who is afflicted in many ways is not without solace and comfort, for he perceives the great benefit to be reaped from the bearing of his cross. For while he bears it with a good will, the whole burden is changed into hope of God's comfort. And the more the body is subdued by affliction, the more is the spirit strengthened by grace within. Sometimes he is so greatly comforted by the desire to suffer adversity for love of conforming to the Cross of Christ, that he would not wish to be without grief and pain; (2Co_4:10) for he knows that the more he can suffer for His sake, the more pleasing he will be to God. This desire does not spring from man's own strength, but from the grace of Christ, which can and does effect such great things in the frail frame of man; so that which nature fears and avoids, he boldly meets and loves through ardor of spirit.\par \par Man is not by nature inclined to carry the cross, to love the cross, to chasten the body, and bring it into subjection; (1Co_9:27) to refuse honors, to submit to insults with goodwill, to despise himself and welcome disparagement; to bear all adversity and loss, and to desire no kind of prosperity in this world. And if you trust in your own strength, you will be unable to achieve any of these things. But if you trust in the Lord, you will be given strength from Heaven, and the world and the flesh will become subject to your will. Neither will you fear your enemy the Devil, if you are armed with faith and signed with the Cross of Christ.\par \par Resolve, then, as a good and faithful servant of Christ, manfully tLVALyo bear the cross of your Lord, who was crucified for love of you. Prepare yourself to endure many trials and obstacles in this vale of tears; for such will be your lot wherever you are, and you will encounter them wherever you conceal yourself. It must needs be so; nor is there any remedy or means of escape from ills and grief s; you must endure them. Drink lovingly the cup of your Lord, (Mat_20:23) if you wish to be His friend, and to share all with Him. Leave consolations to God, to dispose as He wills. But set yourself to endure trials, regarding them as the greatest of all comforts, `for the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory to come', (Rom_8:18) even though you alone were to endure them all.\par \par When you have arrived at that state when trouble seems sweet and acceptable to you for Christ's sake, then all is well with you, for you have hound paradise upon earth. But so long as suffering is grievous to you and you seek to escape it, so long will it go ill with you, for the trouble you try to escape will pursue you everywhere.\par \par If you steel yourself -, as you must - to suffer and to die, all will go better with you, and you will find peace. For although, like Saint Paul, you were `caught up into the third heaven',(2Co_12:4) you would not on this account be secured against suffering further adversity. For Jesus says, `I will show him how great things he must suffer for My Name.'(Act_9:16) Therefore, be prepared to suffer, if you wish to love Jesus and serve Him forever.\par \par Oh, if only you were worthy to suffer for the Name of Jesus! How great and enduring a glory would be yours! How great would be the joy of the Saints of God! How edified your friends would be! For all men commend patience, although few are willing to suffer. It is right that you should suffer a little for the sake of Christ, since many suffer greater things for worldly motives.\par \par Be assured of this, that you must live a dying life. And the more completely a LVALman dies to self, the more he begins to live to God. (Rom_6:9 ) No man is fit to understand heavenly things, unless he is resigned to bear hardships for Christ's sake. Nothing is more acceptable to God, and nothing more salutary for you, than to suffer gladly for Christ's sake. And if it lies in your choice, you should choose rather to suffer hardships for Christ's sake, than to be refreshed by many consolations; for thus you will more closely resemble Christ and all His Saints. For our merit and spiritual progress does not consist in enjoying such sweetness and consolation, but rather in the bearing of great burdens and troubles.\par \par Had there been a better way, more profitable to the salvation of mankind than suffering, then Christ would have revealed it in His word and life. But He clearly urges both His own disciples and all who wish to follow Him to carry the cross, saying, `If any will come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow Me.'(Mar_8:34) Therefore, when we have read and studied all things, let thus be our final resolve: 'that through much tribulation we must enter the Kingdom of God.'(Act_14:22)\par \par \pard\cf1\kerning32\f2\fs23\par } LVALb{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On Lasting Peace and True Progress\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par CHRIST: I have said, 'Peace I leave with you; My own peace I give you. Not as the world gives do I give you.'(Joh_14:27) All men want peace, but all do not seek those things that bring true peace. My peace is with the humble and gentle of heart,(Mat_11:29) and depends on great patience. If you listen to Me, and follow My words, you shall find true peace.\par \par THE DISCIPLE. What must I do, Lord?\par \par CHRIST. Keep guard over your whole life, your actions and words. Direct all your efforts to the single purpose of pleasing Me: seek and desire Myself alone. Never make rash judgements on the behaviour of others, and do not interfere when your opinion is not sought. If you do as I say, you will seldom be troubled in mind. But do not imagine that you can avoid anxiety in this life, or that you may never experience sorrow of heart or pain of body, for true peace is only to be found in the state of eternal rest. So do not think that you have found true peace when you happen to experience no trouble and do not think that all is well when no one opposes you. Nor should you imagine that everything is perfect when everything happens in accordance with your wishes. Do not hold an exaggerated opinion of yourself, or believe that you are a favourite of God when you enjoy the grace of great devotion and sweetness is known, or is a man's spiritual progress dependent on such things.\par \par THE DISCIPLE. Lord, on what then does it depend?\par \par CHRIST. On complete surrender of your heart to the will of God, not seeking to have your own way either in great matters or small, in time or in eternity. If yoLVAL 1|{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fprq2\fcharset0 Arial;}{\f1\froman\fprq2\fcharset0 Georgia;}{\f2\fnil\fcharset0 Georgia;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\stylesheet{ Normal;}{\s1 heading 1;}} {\*\generator Riched20 5.40.11.2210;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\keepn\s1\sb240\sa60\lang1033\kerning32\b\f0\fs32 On the Royal Road of the Holy Cross\par \pard\nowidctlpar\kerning0\b0\f1\fs22\par `Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Me.'(Mat_16:24) To many this saying of Jesus seems hard. But how much harder will it be to hear that word of doom, `Depart from Me, you cursed, into everlasting fire'. (Mat_25:41) For those who now cheerfully hear and obey the word of the Cross (1Co_1:18) will not tremble to hear the sentence of eternal damnation. The sign of the Cross will appear in the heavens, when Our Lord comes as judge. Then will all the servants of the Cross-, who in their lives conformed themselves to the Crucified, (Rom_8:29) stand with confidence before Christ, their judge.\par \par Why, then, do you fear to take up the Cross-, which is the road to the Kingdom? In the Cross is salvation; in the Cross is life; in the Cross is protection against our enemies; in the Cross is infusion of heavenly sweetness; in the Cross is strength of mind; in the Cross is joy of spirit; in the Cross is excellence of virtue; in the Cross is perfection of holiness. There is no salvation of soul, nor hope of eternal life, save in the Cross. Take up the Cross-, therefore, and follow Jesus, (Mat_16:24) and go forward into eternal life. (Mat_25:46) Christ has gone before you, bearing His Cross; (Joh_19:17) He died for you on the Cross, that you also may bear your cross, and desire to die on the cross with Him. For if you die with Him, you will also live with Him. (Rom_6:8) And if you share His sufferings, you will also share His glory.\par \par See how in the Cross all things consist, and in dying on it all things depend. There is no other way to life and to true inner peace, than the way of the CrossLVAL} and of daily self-denial. Go where you will, seek what you will; you will find no higher way above or safer way below than the road of the Holy Cross. Arrange and order all things to your own ideas and wishes, yet you will still find suffering to endure, whether you will or not; so you will always find the Cross. For you will either endure bodily pain, or suffer anguish of mind and spirit.\par \par At times, God will withdraw from you; at times you will be troubled by your neighbor, and, what is more, you will often be a burden to yourself. Neither can any remedy or comfort bring you relief, but you must bear it as long as God wills. For God desires that you learn to bear trials without comfort, that you may yield yourself wholly to Him, and grow more humble through tribulation. No man feels so deeply in his heart the Passion of Christ as he who has to suffer in like manner. The Cross always stands ready, and everywhere awaits you. You cannot escape it, wherever you flee; for wherever you go, you bear yourself, and always find yourself. Look up or down, without you or within, and everywhere you will find the Cross. And everywhere you must have patience, if you wish to attain inner peace, and win an eternal crown.\par \par If you bear the cross willingly, it will bear you and lead you to your desired goal, where pain shall be no more; but it will not be in this life. If you bear the cross unwillingly, you make it a burden, and load yourself more heavily; but you must needs bear it. If you cast away one cross, you will certainly find another, and perhaps a heavier.\par \par Do you think to escape what no mortal man has been able to escape? Which of the Saints lived without cross or trial? Even our Lord Jesus Christ was never without sorrow and pain, as long as He lived. `Christ must needs suffer,' said He, `and rise again from the dead, and so enter into His glory.'(Luk_24:26) Why, then, do you seek any other road than this royal road of the Holy Cross? The whole life of Christ was a cross and maLVAL~rtyrdom; and do you look for rest and selfish pleasure?\par \par You are greatly mistaken if you look for anything save to endure trials, for all this mortal life is full of troubles, (Job_14:1) and everywhere marked with crosses. The further a man advances in the spiritual life, the heavier and more numerous he finds the crosses, for his ever-deepening love of God makes more bitter the sorrows of his earthly exile.\par \par Yet a man who is afflicted in many ways is not without solace and comfort, for he perceives the great benefit to be reaped from the bearing of his cross. For while he bears it with a good will, the whole burden is changed into hope of God's comfort. And the more the body is subdued by affliction, the more is the spirit strengthened by grace within. Sometimes he is so greatly comforted by the desire to suffer adversity for love of conforming to the Cross of Christ, that he would not wish to be without grief and pain; (2Co_4:10) for he knows that the more he can suffer for His sake, the more pleasing he will be to God. This desire does not spring from man's own strength, but from the grace of Christ, which can and does effect such great things in the frail frame of man; so that which nature fears and avoids, he boldly meets and loves through ardor of spirit.\par \par Man is not by nature inclined to carry the cross, to love the cross, to chasten the body, and bring it into subjection; (1Co_9:27) to refuse honors, to submit to insults with goodwill, to despise himself and welcome disparagement; to bear all adversity and loss, and to desire no kind of prosperity in this world. And if you trust in your own strength, you will be unable to achieve any of these things. But if you trust in the Lord, you will be given strength from Heaven, and the world and the flesh will become subject to your will. Neither will you fear your enemy the Devil, if you are armed with faith and signed with the Cross of Christ.\par \par Resolve, then, as a good and faithful servant of Christ, manfully tLVALo bear the cross of your Lord, who was crucified for love of you. Prepare yourself to endure many trials and obstacles in this vale of tears; for such will be your lot wherever you are, and you will encounter them wherever you conceal yourself. It must needs be so; nor is there any remedy or means of escape from ills and grief s; you must endure them. Drink lovingly the cup of your Lord, (Mat_20:23) if you wish to be His friend, and to share all with Him. Leave consolations to God, to dispose as He wills. But set yourself to endure trials, regarding them as the greatest of all comforts, `for the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory to come', (Rom_8:18) even though you alone were to endure them all.\par \par When you have arrived at that state when trouble seems sweet and acceptable to you for Christ's sake, then all is well with you, for you have hound paradise upon earth. But so long as suffering is grievous to you and you seek to escape it, so long will it go ill with you, for the trouble you try to escape will pursue you everywhere.\par \par If you steel yourself -, as you must - to suffer and to die, all will go better with you, and you will find peace. For although, like Saint Paul, you were `caught up into the third heaven',(2Co_12:4) you would not on this account be secured against suffering further adversity. For Jesus says, `I will show him how great things he must suffer for My Name.'(Act_9:16) Therefore, be prepared to suffer, if you wish to love Jesus and serve Him forever.\par \par Oh, if only you were worthy to suffer for the Name of Jesus! How great and enduring a glory would be yours! How great would be the joy of the Saints of God! How edified your friends would be! For all men commend patience, although few are willing to suffer. It is right that you should suffer a little for the sake of Christ, since many suffer greater things for worldly motives.\par \par Be assured of this, that you must live a dying life. And the more completely a LVALman dies to self, the more he begins to live to God. (Rom_6:9 ) No man is fit to understand heavenly things, unless he is resigned to bear hardships for Christ's sake. Nothing is more acceptable to God, and nothing more salutary for you, than to suffer gladly for Christ's sake. And if it lies in your choice, you should choose rather to suffer hardships for Christ's sake, than to be refreshed by many consolations; for thus you will more closely resemble Christ and all His Saints. For our merit and spiritual progress does not consist in enjoying such sweetness and consolation, but rather in the bearing of great burdens and troubles.\par \par Had there been a better way, more profitable to the salvation of mankind than suffering, then Christ would have revealed it in His word and life. But He clearly urges both His own disciples and all who wish to follow Him to carry the cross, saying, `If any will come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow Me.'(Mar_8:34) Therefore, wh