|
Imitation of Christ,
by Thomas á Kempis: Book 1, Chapter 25., cont.
But if thou observest
any thing worthy of reproof, beware thou do not the same. And if at any time
thou hast done it, labor quickly to amend thyself. As thine eye observeth
others, so art thou by others noted again.
How sweet and pleasant a thing it is, to see brethren fervent and devout,
obedient and well-disciplined! How sad and grievous a thing it is, to see
them walk disorderly, not applying themselves to that for which they are
called! How hurtful a thing it is, when they neglect the purpose of their
calling and busy themselves in things not committed to their care!
Be mindful of the purpose thou hast embraced, and set always before thee
the image of the Crucified. Good cause thou hast to be ashamed in looking
upon the life of Jesus Christ, seeing thou hast not as yet endeavored to
conform thyself more unto Him, though thou hast been a long time in the way
of God. A religious person that exercizeth himself seriously and devoutly
in the most holy life and passion of our Lord, shall there abundantly find
whatsoever is profitable and necessary for him, neither shall he need to
seek any better thing, besides Jesus. O if Jesus crucified would come into
our hearts, how quickly and fully should we be. A man fervent and diligent
is prepared for all things.
It is harder toil to resist vices and passions, than to sweat in bodily labors.
He that avoideth not small faults, by little and little falleth into greater.
Thou wilt always rejoice in the evening, if thou spend the day profitably.
Be watchful over thyself, stir up thyself, warn thyself, and whatsoever becometh
of others, neglect not thyself. The more violent thou uses against thyself,
the more shalt thou progress. Amen.
Prayers
for the 12-Day Preparatory Period |
|
