That all hope and trust is to be fixed in God alone
O Lord, what is my trust which I have in this life, or what is my
greatest comfort of all the things which are seen under Heaven? Is it
not Thou, O Lord my God, whose mercies are without number? Where hath
it been well with me without Thee? Or when could it be evil whilst Thou
wert near? I had rather be poor for Thy sake, than rich without Thee. I
choose rather to be a pilgrim upon the earth with Thee than without
Thee to possess heaven. Where Thou art, there is heaven; and where Thou
are not, behold there death and hell. Thou art all my desire, and
therefore must I groan and cry and earnestly pray after Thee. In short
I can confide fully in none to give me ready help in necessities, save
in Thee alone, O my God. Thou art my hope, Thou art my trust, Thou art
my Comforter, and most faithful in all things.
2. _All men seek their own;_(1) Thou settest forward only my salvation
and my profit, and turnest all things unto my good. Even though Thou
dost expose me to divers temptations and adversities, Thou ordainest
all this unto my advantage, for Thou are wont to prove Thy beloved ones
in a thousand ways. In which proving Thou oughtest no less to be loved
and praised, than if Thou wert filling me full of heavenly
consolations.
3. In Thee, therefore, O Lord God, I put all my hope and my refuge, on
Thee I lay all my tribulation and anguish; because I find all to be
weak and unstable whatsoever I behold out of Thee. For many friends
shall not profit, nor strong helpers be able to succour, nor prudent
counsellors to give a useful answer, nor the books of the learned to
console, nor any precious substance to deliver, nor any secret and
beautiful place to give shelter, if Thou Thyself do not assist, help,
strengthen, comfort, instruct, keep in safety.
4. For all things which seem to belong to the attainment of peace and
felicity are nothing when Thou art absent, and bring no felicity at all
in reality. Therefore art Thou the end of all good, and the fulness of
Life, and the soul of eloquence; and to hope in Thee above all things
is the strongest solace of Thy servants. _Mine eyes look unto Thee_,(2)
in Thee is my trust, O my God, Father of mercies.
5. Bless and sanctify my soul with heavenly blessing that it may become
Thy holy habitation, and the seat of Thy eternal glory; and let nothing
be found in the Temple of Thy divinity which may offend the eyes of Thy
majesty. According to the greatness of Thy goodness and the multitude
of Thy mercies look upon me, and hear the prayer of Thy poor servant,
far exiled from Thee in the land of the shadow of death. Protect and
preserve the soul of Thy least servant amid so many dangers of
corruptible life, and by Thy grace accompanying me, direct it by the
way of peace unto its home of perpetual light. Amen.
(1) Philippians ii. 21 (2) Psalm cxli. 8.
THE FOURTH BOOK
OF THE SACRAMENT OF THE ALTAR
A devout exhortation to the Holy Communion
The Voice of Christ
Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will
refresh you,(1) saith the Lord. The bread that I will give is My flesh
which I give for the life of the world.(2) Take, eat: this is My Body,
which is given for you; this do in remembrance of Me.(3) He that eateth
My flesh and drinketh My blood dwelleth in Me and I in him. The words
that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.(4)
(1) Matthew xi. 28 (2) John vi. 51. (3) Matthew xxvi. 26; Luke xxii.
19. (4) John vi. 51, 63.
CHAPTER I
With how great reverence Christ must be received
The Voice of the Disciple
These are Thy words, O Christ, Eternal Truth; though not uttered at one
time nor written together in one place of Scripture. Because therefore
they are Thy words and true, I must gratefully and faithfully receive
them all. They are Thine, and Thou hast uttered them; and they are mine
also, because Thou didst speak them for my salvation. Gladly I receive
them from Thy mouth, that they may be more deeply implanted in my
heart. Words of such great grace arouse me, for they are full of
sweetness and love; but my own sins terrify me, and my impure
conscience driveth me away from receiving so great mysteries. The
sweetness of Thy words encourageth me, but the multitude of my faults
presseth me down.
2. Thou commandest that I draw near to Thee with firm confidence, if I
would have part with Thee, and that I receive the food of immortality,
if I desire to obtain eternal life and glory. Come unto Me, sayest
Thou, all that labour and are heavy laden, and I will refresh you. Oh,
sweet and lovely word in the ear of the sinner, that Thou, O Lord my
God, dost invite the poor and needy to the Communion of Thy most holy
body and blood. But who am I, O Lord, that I should presume to approach
unto Thee? Behold the heaven of heavens cannot contain Thee, and yet
Thou sayest, Come ye all unto Me.
3. What meaneth this most gracious condescension, this most lovely
invitation? How shall I dare to come, who know no good thing of myself,
whence I might be able to presume? How shall I bring Thee within my
house, seeing that I so often have sinned in Thy most loving sight?
Angels and Archangels stand in awe of Thee, the Saints and just men
fear Thee, and Thou sayest, Come unto Me! Except Thou, Lord, hadst said
it, who should believe it true? And except Thou hadst commanded, who
should attempt to draw near?
4. Behold, Noah, that just man, laboured for a hundred years in
building the ark, that he might be saved with the few; and I, how shall
I be able in one hour to prepare myself to receive the Builder of the
world with reverence? Moses, Thy servant, Thy great and especial
friend, made an ark of incorruptible wood, which also he covered with
purest gold, that he might lay up in it the tables of the law, and I, a
corruptible creature, shall I dare thus easily to receive Thee, the
Maker of the Law and the Giver of life? Solomon, the wisest of the
kings of Israel, was seven years building his magnificent temple to the
praise of Thy Name, and for eight days celebrated the feast of its
dedication, offered a thousand peace offerings, and solemnly brought up
the Ark of the Covenant to the place prepared for it, with the sound of
trumpets and great joy, and I, unhappy and poorest of mankind, how
shall I bring Thee into my house, who scarce know how to spend half an
hour in devotion? And oh that it were even one half hour worthily
spent!
5. O my God, how earnestly these holy men strove to please Thee! And
alas! how little and trifling is that which I do! how short a time do I
spend, when I am disposing myself to Communion. Rarely altogether
collected, most rarely cleansed from all distraction. And surely in the
saving presence of Thy Godhead no unmeet thought ought to intrude, nor
should any creature take possession of me, because it is not an Angel
but the Lord of the Angels, that I am about to receive as my Guest.
6. Yet there is a vast difference between the Ark of the Covenant with
its relics, and Thy most pure Body with its ineffable virtues, between
those sacrifices of the law, which were figures of things to come, and
the true sacrifice of Thy Body, the completion of all the ancient
sacrifices.
7. Wherefore then do I not yearn more ardently after Thy adorable
presence? Why do I not prepare myself with greater solicitude to
receive Thy holy things, when those holy Patriarchs and Prophets of
old, kings also and princes, with the whole people, manifested so great
affection of devotion towards Thy Divine Service?
8. The most devout king David danced with all his might before the Ark
of God, calling to mind the benefits granted to his forefathers in days
past; he fashioned musical instruments of various sorts, put forth
Psalms, and appointed them to be sung with joy, played also himself
ofttimes on the harp, being inspired with the grace of the Holy Ghost;
he taught the people of Israel to praise God with the whole heart, and
with unity of voice to bless and praise Him every day. If so great
devotion was then exercised, and celebration of divine praise was
carried on before the Ark of the Testimony, how great reverence and
devotion ought now to be shown by me and all Christian people at the
ministering of the Sacrament, at receiving the most precious Body and
Blood of Christ.
9. Many run to diverse places to visit the memorials of departed
Saints, and rejoice to hear of their deeds and to look upon the
beautiful buildings of their shrines. And behold, Thou art present here
with me, O my God, Saint of Saints, Creator of men and Lord of the
Angels. Often in looking at those memorials men are moved by curiosity
and novelty, and very little fruit of amendment is borne away,
especially when there is so much careless trifling and so little true
contrition. But here in the Sacrament of the Altar, Thou art present
altogether, My God, the Man Christ Jesus; where also abundant fruit of
eternal life is given to every one soever that receiveth Thee worthily
and devoutly. But to this no levity draweth, no curiosity, nor
sensuality, only steadfast faith, devout hope, and sincere charity.
10. O God, invisible Creator of the world, how wondrously dost Thou
work with us, how sweetly and graciously Thou dealest with Thine elect,
to whom Thou offerest Thyself to be received in this Sacrament! For
this surpasseth all understanding, this specially draweth the hearts of
the devout and enkindleth their affections. For even thy true faithful
ones themselves, who order their whole life to amendment, oftentimes
gain from this most excellent Sacrament great grace of devotion and
love of virtue.
11. Oh admirable and hidden grace of the Sacrament, which only Christ’s
faithful ones know, but the faithless and those who serve sin cannot
experience! In this Sacrament is conferred spiritual grace, and lost
virtue is regained in the soul, and the beauty which was disfigured by
sin returneth again. So great sometimes is this grace that out of the
fulness of devotion given, not only the mind but also the weak body
feeleth that more strength is supplied unto it.
12. But greatly must we mourn and lament over our lukewarmness and
negligence, that we are not drawn by greater affection to become
partakers of Christ, in whom all the hope and the merit of those that
are to be saved consist. For He Himself is our sanctification and
redemption.(1) He is the consolation of pilgrims and the eternal
fruition of the Saints. Therefore it is grievously to be lamented that
many so little consider this health-giving mystery, which maketh heaven
glad and preserveth the whole world. Alas for the blindness and
hardness of man’s heart, that he considereth not more this unspeakable
gift, and even slippeth down through the daily use, into carelessness.
13. For if this most holy Sacrament were celebrated in one place only,
and were consecrated only by one priest in the whole world, with what
great desire thinkest thou, would men be affected towards that place
and towards such a priest of God, that they might behold the divine
mysteries celebrated? But now are many men made priests and in many
places the Sacrament is celebrated, that the grace and love of God
towards men might the more appear, the more widely the Holy Communion
is spread abroad over all the world. Thanks be unto Thee, O good Jesus,
Eternal Shepherd, who hast vouchsafed to refresh us, poor and exiled
ones, with Thy precious Body and Blood, and to invite us to partake
these holy mysteries by the invitation from Thine own mouth, saying,
Come unto Me, ye who labour and are heavy laden, and I will refresh
you.
(1) 1 Corinthians i. 30.
CHAPTER II
That the greatness and charity of God is shown to men in the Sacrament
The Voice of the Disciple
Trusting in Thy goodness and great mercy, O Lord, I draw near, the sick
to the Healer, the hungering and thirsting to the Fountain of life, the
poverty-stricken to the King of heaven, the servant to the Lord, the
creature to the Creator, the desolate to my own gentle Comforter. But
whence is this unto me, that Thou comest unto me? Who am I that Thou
shouldest offer me Thyself? How doth a sinner dare to appear before
Thee? And how dost thou vouchsafe to come to the sinner? Thou knowest
Thy servant, and Thou knowest that he hath in him no good thing for
which Thou shouldest grant him this grace. I confess therefore mine own
vileness, I acknowledge Thy goodness, I praise Thy tenderness, and I
give Thee thanks for Thine exceeding great love. For Thou doest this
for Thine own sake, not for my merits, that Thy goodness may be more
manifest unto me, Thy charity more abundantly poured out upon me, and
Thy humility more perfectly commended unto me. Therefore because this
pleaseth Thee and Thou hast commanded that thus it shall be, Thy
condescension pleaseth me also; and oh that mine iniquity hinder it
not.
2. O most sweet and tender Jesus, what reverence, what giving of thanks
is due to Thee with perpetual praise for the receiving of Thy sacred
Body and Blood, the dignity whereof no man is found able to express.
But what shall I think upon in this Communion in approaching my Lord,
whom I am not able worthily to honour, and nevertheless whom I long
devoutly to receive? What shall be better and more healthful meditation
for me, than utter humiliation of myself before Thee, and exaltation of
Thine infinite goodness towards me? I praise Thee, O my God, and exalt
Thee for evermore. I despise myself, and cast myself down before Thee
into the deep of my vileness.
3. Behold, Thou art the Saint of saints and I the refuse of sinners;
behold, Thou stoopest unto me who am not worthy to look upon Thee;
behold, Thou comest unto me, Thou willest to be with me, Thou invitest
me to Thy feast. Thou willest to give me the heavenly food and bread of
angels to eat; none other, in truth, than Thyself, The living bread,
which didst descend from heaven; and givest life to the world.(1)
4. Behold, whence this love proceedeth! what manner of condescension
shineth forth herein. What great giving of thanks and praise is due
unto Thee for these benefits! Oh how salutary and profitable Thy
purpose when Thou didst ordain this! How sweet and pleasant the feast
when Thou didst give Thyself for food! Oh how admirable is thy working,
O Lord, how mighty Thy power, how unspeakable Thy truth! For Thou didst
speak the word, and all things were made; and this is done which Thou
hast commanded.
5. A thing wonderful, and worthy of faith, and surpassing all the
understanding of man, that Thou, O Lord my God, very God and very man,
givest Thyself altogether to us in a little bread and wine, and art so
our inexhaustible food. Thou, O Lord of all, who hast need of nothing,
hast willed to dwell in us through Thy Sacrament. Preserve my heart and
my body undefiled, that with a joyful and pure conscience I may be able
very often to [celebrate, and](2) receive to my perpetual health. Thy
mysteries, which Thou hast consecrated and instituted both for Thine
own honour, and for a perpetual memorial.
6. Rejoice, O my soul, and give thanks unto God for so great a gift and
precious consolation, left unto thee in this vale of tears. For so oft
as thou callest this mystery to mind and receivest the body of Christ,
so often dost thou celebrate the work of thy redemption, and art made
partaker of all the merits of Christ. For the charity of Christ never
groweth less, and the greatness of His propitiation is never exhausted.
Therefore, by continual renewal of thy spirit, thou oughtest to dispose
thyself hereunto and to weigh the great mystery of salvation with
attentive consideration. So great, new, and joyful ought it to appear
to thee when thou comest to communion, as if on this self-same day
Christ for the first time were descending into the Virgin’s womb and
becoming man, or hanging on the cross, suffering and dying for the
salvation of mankind.
(1) John vi. 51. (2) The words in brackets are only suitable for a
priest.
CHAPTER III
That it is profitable to Communicate often
The Voice of the Disciple
Behold I come unto Thee, O Lord, that I may be blessed through Thy
gift, and be made joyful in Thy holy feast which Thou, O God, of Thy
goodness hast prepared for the poor.(1) Behold in Thee is all that I
can and ought to desire, Thou art my salvation and redemption, my hope
and strength, my honour and glory. Therefore rejoice the soul of Thy
servant this day, for unto Thee, O Lord Jesus, do I lift up my soul.(2)
I long now to receive Thee devoutly and reverently, I desire to bring
Thee into my house, so that with Zacchaeus I may be counted worthy to
be blessed by Thee and numbered among the children of Abraham. My soul
hath an earnest desire for Thy Body, my heart longeth to be united with
Thee.
2. Give me Thyself and it sufficeth, for besides Thee no consolation
availeth. Without Thee I cannot be, and without Thy visitation I have
no power to live. And therefore I must needs draw nigh unto Thee often,
and receive Thee for the healing of my soul, lest haply I faint by the
way if I be deprived of heavenly food. For so Thou, most merciful
Jesus, preaching to the people and healing many sick, didst once say, I
will not send them away fasting to their own homes, lest they faint by
the way.(3) Deal therefore now to me in like manner, for Thou left
Thyself for the consolation of the faithful in the Sacrament. For Thou
art the sweet refreshment of the soul, and he who shall eat Thee
worthily shall be partaker and inheritor of the eternal glory.
Necessary indeed it is for me, who so often slide backwards and sin, so
quickly wax cold and faint, to renew, cleanse, enkindle myself by
frequent prayers and penitences and receiving of Thy sacred Body and
Blood lest haply by too long abstinence, I fall short of my holy
resolutions.
3. For the imaginations of man’s heart are evil from his youth,(4) and
except divine medicine succour him, man slideth away continually unto
the worse. The Holy Communion therefore draweth us back from evil, and
strengtheneth us for good. For if I now be so negligent and lukewarm
when I communicate [or celebrate], how should it be with me, if I
receive not this medicine, and sought not so great a help? [And though
I am not every day fit nor well prepared to celebrate, I will
nevertheless give diligent heed at due season, to receive the divine
mysteries, and to become partaker of so great grace]. For this is the
one principal consolation of a faithful soul, so long as it is absent
from Thee in mortal body, that being continually mindful of its God, it
receiveth its Beloved with devout spirit.
4. Oh wonderful condescension of Thy pity surrounding us, that Thou, O
Lord God, Creator and Quickener of all spirits, deignest to come unto a
soul so poor and weak, and to appease its hunger with Thy whole Deity
and Humanity. Oh happy mind and blessed soul, to which is granted
devoutly to receive Thee its Lord God, and in so receiving Thee to be
filled with all spiritual joy! Oh how great a Lord doth it entertain,
how beloved a Guest doth it bring in, how delightful a Companion doth
it receive, how faithful a Friend doth it welcome, how beautiful and
exalted a Spouse, above every other Beloved, doth it embrace, One to be
loved above all things that can be desired! Oh my most sweet Beloved,
let heaven and earth and all the glory of them, be silent in Thy
presence; seeing whatsoever praise and beauty they have it is of Thy
gracious bounty; and they shall never reach unto the loveliness of Thy
Name, Whose Wisdom is infinite.(5)
(1) Psalm lxviii. 10. (2) Psalm lxxxvi. 4. (3) Matthew xv. 32. (4)
Genesis viii. 21. (5) Psalm cxlvii. 5.
CHAPTER IV
That many good gifts are bestowed upon those who Communicate devoutly
The Voice of the Disciple
O Lord my God, prevent Thou Thy servant with the blessings of Thy
sweetness, that I may be enabled to draw near worthily and devoutly to
Thy glorious Sacrament. Awaken my heart towards Thee, and deliver me
from heavy slumber. Visit me with Thy salvation that I may in spirit
taste Thy sweetness, which plentifully lieth hid in this Sacrament as
in a fountain. Lighten also mine eyes to behold this so great mystery,
and strengthen me that I may believe it with undoubting faith. For it
is Thy word, not human power; it is Thy holy institution, not the
invention of man. For no man is found fit in himself to receive and to
understand these things, which transcend even the wisdom of the Angels.
What portion then shall I, unworthy sinner, who am but dust and ashes,
be able to search into and comprehend of so deep a Sacrament?
2. O Lord, in the simplicity of my heart, in good and firm faith, and
according to Thy will, I draw nigh unto Thee with hope and reverence,
and truly believe that Thou art here present in the Sacrament, God and
man. Thou willest therefore that I receive Thee and unite myself to
Thee in charity. Wherefore I beseech Thy mercy, and implore Thee to
give me Thy special grace, to this end, that I may be wholly dissolved
and overflow with love towards Thee, and no more suffer any other
consolation to enter into me. For this most high and most glorious
Sacrament is the health of the soul and the body, the medicine of all
spiritual sickness, whereby I am healed of my sins, my passions are
bridled, temptations are conquered or weakened, more grace is poured
into me, virtue begun is increased, faith is made firm, hope is
strengthened, and charity is enkindled and enlarged.
3. For in this Sacrament Thou hast bestowed many good things and still
bestowest them continually on Thine elect who communicate devoutly, O
my God, Lifter up of my soul, Repairer of human infirmity, and Giver of
all inward consolation. For Thou pourest into them much consolation
against all sorts of tribulation, and out of the deep of their own
misery Thou liftest them up to the hope of Thy protection, and with
ever new grace, dost inwardly refresh and enlighten them; so that they
who felt themselves to be anxious and without affection before
Communion, afterwards being refreshed with heavenly food and drink,
find themselves changed for the better. And even in such wise Thou
dealest severally with Thine elect, that they may truly acknowledge and
clearly make proof that they have nothing whatsoever of their own, and
what goodness and grace come to them from Thee; because being in
themselves cold, hard of heart, indevout, through Thee they become
fervent, zealous, and devout. For who is there coming humbly to the
fountain of sweetness, carrieth not away thence at the least some
little of that sweetness? Or who standing by a large fire, feeleth not
from thence a little of its heat? And Thou art ever a full and
overflowing fountain, a fire continually burning, and never going out.
4. Wherefore if it is not suffered to me to draw from the fulness of
the fountain, nor to drink unto satisfying, yet will I set my lips to
the mouth of the heavenly conduit, that at least I may receive a small
drop to quench my thirst, that I dry not up within my heart. And if I
am not yet able to be altogether heavenly and so enkindled as the
Cherubim and Seraphim, yet will I endeavour to give myself unto
devotion, and to prepare my heart, that I may gain if it be but a
little flame of the divine fire, through the humble receiving of the
life-giving Sacrament. But whatsoever is wanting unto me, O merciful
Jesus, Most Holy Saviour, do Thou of Thy kindness and grace supply, who
hast vouchsafed to call all unto Thee, saying, Come unto me, all ye
that are weary and heavy laden, and I will refresh you.
5. I indeed labour in the sweat of my face, I am tormented with sorrow
of heart, I am burdened with sins, I am disquieted with temptations, I
am entangled and oppressed with many passions, and there is none to
help me, there is none to deliver and ease me, but Thou, O Lord God, my
Saviour, to whom I commit myself and all things that are mine, that
Thou mayest preserve me and lead me unto life eternal.
Receive me unto the praise and glory of Thy name, who hast prepared
Thy Body and Blood to be my meat and drink. Grant, O Lord God my
Saviour, that with coming often to Thy mysteries the zeal of my
devotion may increase.
CHAPTER V
Of the dignity of this Sacrament, and of the office of the priest
The Voice of the Beloved
If thou hadst angelic purity and the holiness of holy John the Baptist,
thou wouldest not be worthy to receive or to minister this Sacrament.
For this is not deserved by merit of man that a man should consecrate
and minister the Sacrament of Christ, and take for food the bread of
Angels. Vast is the mystery, and great is the dignity of the priests,
to whom is given what is not granted to Angels. For priests only,
rightly ordained in the church, have the power of consecrating and
celebrating the Body of Christ. The priest indeed is the minister of
God, using the Word of God by God’s command and institution;
nevertheless God is there the principal Author and invisible Worker,
that to whom all that He willeth is subject, and all He commandeth is
obedient.
2. Therefore thou must believe God Almighty in this most excellent
Sacrament, more than thine own sense or any visible sign at all. And
therefore with fear and reverence is this work to be approached. Take
heed therefore and see what it is of which the ministry is committed to
thee by the laying on of the Bishop’s hand. Behold thou art made a
priest and art consecrated to celebrate. See now that thou do it before
God faithfully and devoutly at due time, and shew thyself without
blame. Thou hast not lightened thy burden, but art now bound with a
straiter bond of discipline, and art pledged to a higher degree of
holiness. A priest ought to be adorned with all virtues and to afford
to others an example of good life. His conversation must not be with
the popular and common ways of men, but with Angels in Heaven or with
perfect men on earth.
3. A priest clad in holy garments taketh Christ’s place that he may
pray unto God with all supplication and humility for himself and for
the whole people. He must always remember the Passion of Christ. He
must diligently look upon Christ’s footsteps and fervently endeavour
himself to follow them. He must bear meekly for God whatsoever ills are
brought upon him by others. He must mourn for his own sins, and for the
sins committed by others, and may not grow careless of prayer and holy
oblation, until he prevail to obtain grace and mercy. When the priest
celebrateth, he honoureth God, giveth joy to the Angels, buildeth up
the Church, helpeth the living, hath communion with the departed, and
maketh himself a partaker of all good things.
CHAPTER VI
An inquiry concerning preparation for Communion
The Voice of the Disciple
When I consider Thy dignity, O Lord, and mine own vileness, I tremble
very exceedingly, and am confounded within myself. For if I approach
not, I fly from life; and if I intrude myself unworthily, I run into
Thy displeasure. What then shall I do, O my God, Thou helper and
Counsellor in necessities.
2. Teach Thou me the right way; propound unto me some short exercise
befitting Holy Communion. For it is profitable to know how I ought to
prepare my heart devoutly and reverently for Thee, to the intent that I
may receive Thy Sacrament to my soul’s health [or it may be also for
the celebrating this so great and divine mystery].
CHAPTER VII
Of the examination of conscience, and purpose of amendment
The Voice of the Beloved
Above all things the priest of God must draw nigh, with all humility of
heart and supplicating reverence, with full faith and pious desire for
the honour of God, to celebrate, minister, and receive this Sacrament.
Diligently examine thy conscience and with all thy might with true
contrition and humble confession cleanse and purify it, so that thou
mayest feel no burden, nor know anything which bringeth thee remorse
and impedeth thy free approach. Have displeasure against all thy sins
in general, and specially sorrow and mourn because of thy daily
transgressions. And if thou have time, confess unto God in the secret
of thine heart, all miseries of thine own passion.
2. Lament grievously and be sorry, because thou art still so carnal and
worldly, so unmortified from thy passions, so full of the motion of
concupiscence, so unguarded in thine outward senses, so often entangled
in many vain fancies, so much inclined to outward things, so negligent
of internal; so ready to laughter and dissoluteness, so unready to
weeping and contrition; so prone to ease and indulgence of the flesh,
so dull to zeal and fervour; so curious to hear novelties and behold
beauties, so loth to embrace things humble and despised; so desirous to
have many things, so grudging in giving, so close in keeping; so
inconsiderate in speaking, so reluctant to keep silence; so disorderly
in manners, so inconsiderate in actions; so eager after food, so deaf
towards the Word of God; so eager after rest, so slow to labour; so
watchful after tales, so sleepy towards holy watchings; so eager for
the end of them, so wandering in attention to them; so negligent in
observing the hours of prayer, so lukewarm in celebrating, so
unfruitful in communicating; so quickly distracted, so seldom quite
collected with thyself; so quickly moved to anger, so ready for
displeasure at others; so prone to judging, so severe at reproving; so
joyful in prosperity, so weak in adversity; so often making many good
resolutions and bringing them to so little effect.
3. When thou hast confessed and bewailed these and thy other
shortcomings, with sorrow and sore displeasure at thine own infirmity,
make then a firm resolution of continual amendment of life and of
progress in all that is good. Then moreover with full resignation and
entire will offer thyself to the honour of My name on the altar of
thine heart as a perpetual whole burnt-offering, even by faithfully
presenting thy body and soul unto Me, to the end that thou mayest so be
accounted worthy to draw near to offer this sacrifice of praise and
thanksgiving to God, and to receive the Sacrament of My Body and Blood
to thy soul’s health. For there is no oblation worthier, no
satisfaction greater for the destroying of sin, than that a man offer
himself to God purely and entirely with the oblation of the Body and
Blood of Christ in the Holy Communion. If a man shall have done what in
him lieth, and shall repent him truly, then how often soever he shall
draw nigh unto Me for pardon and grace, As I live, saith the Lord, I
have no pleasure in the death of a sinner, but rather that he should be
converted, and live. All his transgressions that he hath committed,
they shall not be mentioned unto him.(1)
(1) Ezekiel xviii. 22, 23.
CHAPTER VIII
Of the oblation of Christ upon the cross, and of resignation of self
The Voice of the Beloved
As I of my own will offered myself unto God the Father on the Cross for
thy sins with outstretched hands and naked body, so that nothing
remained in Me that did not become altogether a sacrifice for the
Divine propitiation; so also oughtest thou every day to offer thyself
willingly unto Me for a pure and holy oblation with all thy strength
and affections, even to the utmost powers of thine heart. What more do
I require of thee than thou study to resign thyself altogether unto Me?
Whatsoever thou givest besides thyself, I nothing care for, for I ask
not thy gift, but thee.
2. As it would not be sufficient for thee if thou hadst all things
except Me, even so whatsoever thou shalt give Me, if thou give Me not
thyself, it cannot please Me. Offer thyself to Me, and give thyself
altogether for God, so shall thy offering be accepted. Behold I offered
Myself altogether to the Father for thee, I give also My whole body and
blood for food, that thou mightest remain altogether Mine and I thine.
But if thou stand in thyself, and offer not thyself freely to My will,
thy offering is not perfect, neither shall the union betwixt us be
complete. Therefore ought the freewill offering of thyself into the
hands of God to go before all thy works, if thou wilt attain liberty
and grace. For this is the cause that so few are inwardly enlightened
and made free, that they know not how to deny themselves entirely. My
word standeth sure, Except a man forsake all, he cannot be My
disciple.(1) Thou therefore, if thou wilt be My disciple, offer thyself
to Me with all thy affections.
(1) Luke xiv. 33.
CHAPTER IX
That we ought to offer ourselves and all that is ours to God, and to
pray for all
The Voice of the Disciple
Lord, all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine.(1) I desire
to offer myself up unto thee as a freewill offering, and to continue
Thine for ever. Lord, in the uprightness of mine heart I willingly
offer(2) myself to Thee to-day to be Thy servant for ever, in humble
submission and for a sacrifice of perpetual praise. Receive me with
this holy Communion of Thy precious Body, which I celebrate before Thee
this day in the presence of the Angels invisibly surrounding, that it
may be for the salvation of me and of all Thy people.
2. Lord, I lay before Thee at this celebration all my sins and offences
which I have committed before Thee and Thy holy Angels, from the day
whereon I was first able to sin even unto this hour; that Thou mayest
consume and burn them every one with the fire of Thy charity, and
mayest do away all the stains of my sins, and cleanse my conscience
from all offence, and restore me to Thy favour which by sinning I have
lost, fully forgiving me all, and mercifully admitting me to the kiss
of peace.
3. What can I do concerning my sins, save humbly to confess and lament
them and unceasingly to beseech Thy propitiation? I beseech Thee, be
propitious unto me and hear me, when I stand before Thee, O my God. All
my sins displease me grievously: I will never more commit them; but I
grieve for them and will grieve so long as I live, steadfastly
purposing to repent me truly, and to make restitution as far as I can.
Forgive, O God, forgive me my sins for Thy holy Name’s sake; save my
soul, which Thou hast redeemed with Thy precious blood. Behold I commit
myself to Thy mercy, I resign myself to Thy hands. Deal with me
according to Thy loving-kindness, not according to my wickedness and
iniquity.
4. I offer also unto Thee all my goodness, though it is exceedingly
little and imperfect, that Thou mayest mend and sanctify it, that Thou
mayest make it well pleasing and acceptable in Thy sight, and ever draw
it on towards perfection; and furthermore bring me safely, slothful and
useless poor creature that I am, to a happy and blessed end.
5. Moreover I offer unto Thee all pious desires of the devout,
necessities of parents, friends, brothers, sisters, and all who are
dear to me, and of those who have done good to me, or to others for Thy
love; and those who have desired and besought my prayers for themselves
and all belonging to them; that all may feel themselves assisted by Thy
grace, enriched by consolation, protected from dangers, freed from
pains; and that being delivered from all evils they may joyfully give
Thee exceeding thanks.
6. I offer also to Thee prayers and Sacramental intercessions for those
specially who have injured me in aught, made me sad, or spoken evil
concerning me, or have caused me any loss or displeasure; for all those
also whom I have at any time made sad, disturbed, burdened, and
scandalized, by words or deeds, knowingly or ignorantly; that to all of
us alike, Thou mayest equally pardon our sins and mutual offences. Take
away, O Lord, from our hearts all suspicion, indignation, anger, and
contention, and whatsoever is able to injure charity and diminish
brotherly love. Have mercy, have mercy, Lord, on those who entreat Thy
mercy; give grace to the needy; and make us such that we may be worthy
to enjoy Thy grace, and go forward to the life eternal. Amen.
(1) 1 Chronicles xxix. 11. (2) 1 Chronicles xxix. 17.
CHAPTER X
That Holy Communion is not lightly to be omitted
The Voice of the Beloved
Thou must frequently betake thee to the Fountain of grace and divine
mercy, to the Fountain of goodness and all purity; to the end that thou
mayest obtain the healing of thy passions and vices, and mayest be made
stronger and more watchful against all temptations and wiles of the
devil. The enemy, knowing what profit and exceeding strong remedy lieth
in the Holy Communion, striveth by all means and occasions to draw back
and hinder the faithful and devout, so far as he can.
2. For when some set about to prepare themselves for Holy Communion,
they suffer from the more evil suggestions of Satan. The very evil
spirit himself (as is written in Job), cometh among the sons of God
that he may trouble them by his accustomed evil dealing, or make them
over timid and perplexed; to the intent that he may diminish their
affections, or take away their faith by his attacks, if haply he may
prevail upon them to give up Holy Communion altogether, or to come
thereto with lukewarm hearts. But his wiles and delusions must not be
heeded, howsoever wicked and terrible they be; but all his delusion
must be cast back upon his own head. The wretch must be despised and
laughed to scorn: neither must Holy Communion be omitted because of his
insults and the inward troubles which he stirreth up.
3. Often also too much carefulness or some anxiety or other touching
confession hindereth from obtaining devotion. Do thou according to the
counsel of wise men, and lay aside anxiety and scruple, because it
hindereth the grace of God and destroyeth devotion of mind. Because of
some little vexation or trouble do not thou neglect Holy Communion, but
rather hasten to confess it, and forgive freely all offences committed
against thee. And if thou hast offended any man, humbly beg for pardon,
and God shall freely forgive thee.
4. What profiteth it to put off for long time the confession of thy
sins, or to defer Holy Communion? Cleanse thyself forthwith, spit out
the poison with all speed, hasten to take the remedy, and thou shalt
feel thyself better than if thou didst long defer it. If to-day thou
defer it on one account, to-morrow perchance some greater obstacle will
come, and so thou mayest be long time hindered from Communion and
become more unfit. As soon as thou canst, shake thyself from thy
present heaviness and sloth, for it profiteth nothing to be long
anxious, to go long on thy way with heaviness of heart, and because of
daily little obstacles to sever thyself from divine things: nay it is
exceeding hurtful to defer thy Communion long, for this commonly
bringeth on great torpor. Alas! there are some, lukewarm and
undisciplined, who willingly find excuses for delaying repentance, and
desire to defer Holy Communion, lest they should be bound to keep
stricter watch upon themselves.
5. Alas! how little charity, what flagging devotion, have they who so
lightly put off Holy Communion. How happy is he, how acceptable to God,
who so liveth, and in such purity of conscience keepeth himself, that
any day he could be ready and well inclined to communicate, if it were
in his power, and might be done without the notice of others. If a man
sometimes abstaineth for the sake of humility or some sound cause, he
is to be commended for his reverence. But if drowsiness have taken hold
of him, he ought to rouse himself and to do what in him lieth; and the
Lord will help his desire for the good will which he hath, which God
specially approveth.
6. But when he is hindered by sufficient cause, yet will he ever have a
good will and pious intention to communicate; and so he shall not be
lacking in the fruit of the Sacrament. For any devout man is able every
day and every hour to draw near to spiritual communion with Christ to
his soul’s health and without hindrance. Nevertheless on certain days
and at the appointed time he ought to receive the Body and Blood of his
Redeemer with affectionate reverence, and rather to seek after the
praise and honour of God, than his own comfort. For so often doth he
communicate mystically, and is invisibly refreshed, as he devoutly
calleth to mind the mystery of Christ’s incarnation and His Passion,
and is inflamed with the love of Him.
7. He who only prepareth himself when a festival is at hand or custom
compelleth, will too often be unprepared. Blessed is he who offereth
himself to God for a whole burnt-offering, so often as he celebrateth
or communicateth! Be not too slow nor too hurried in thy celebrating,
but preserve the good received custom of those with whom thou livest.
Thou oughtest not to produce weariness and annoyance in others, but to
observe the received custom, according to the institution of the
elders; and to minister to the profit of others rather than to thine
own devotion or feeling.
CHAPTER XI
That the Body and Blood of Christ and the Holy Scriptures are most
necessary to a faithful soul
The Voice of the Disciple
O most sweet Lord Jesus, how great is the blessedness of the devout
soul that feedeth with Thee in Thy banquet, where there is set before
it no other food than Thyself its only Beloved, more to be desired than
all the desires of the heart? And to me it would verily be sweet to
pour forth my tears in Thy presence from the very bottom of my heart,
and with the pious Magdalene to water Thy feet with my tears. But where
is this devotion? Where the abundant flowing of holy tears? Surely in
Thy presence and in the presence of the holy Angels my whole heart
ought to burn and to weep for joy; for I have Thee in the Sacrament
verily present, although hidden under other form.
2. For in Thine own Divine brightness, mine eyes could not endure to
behold Thee, neither could the whole world stand before the splendour
of the glory of Thy Majesty. In this therefore Thou hast consideration
unto my weakness, that Thou hidest Thyself under the Sacrament. I
verily possess and adore Him whom the Angels adore in heaven; I yet for
a while by faith, but they by sight and without a veil. It is good for
me to be content with the light of true faith, and to walk therein
until the day of eternal brightness dawn, and the shadows of figures
flee away.(1) But when that which is perfect is come, the using of
Sacraments shall cease, because the Blessed in heavenly glory have no
need of Sacramental remedy. For they rejoice unceasingly in the
presence of God, beholding His glory face to face, and _being changed
from glory to glory_(2) of the infinite God, they taste the Word of God
made flesh, as He was in the beginning and remaineth for everlasting.
3. When I think on these wondrous things, even spiritual comfort
whatsoever it be becometh sore weariness to me; for so long as I see
not openly my Lord in His own Glory, I count for nothing all which I
behold and hear in the world. Thou, O God, art my witness that nothing
is able to comfort me, no creature is able to give me rest, save Thou,
O my God, whom I desire to contemplate everlastingly. But this is not
possible, so long as I remain in this mortal state. Therefore ought I
to set myself unto great patience, and submit myself unto Thee in every
desire. For even Thy Saints, O Lord, who now rejoice with Thee in the
kingdom of heaven, waited for the coming of Thy glory whilst they lived
here, in faith and great glory. What they believed, that believe I;
what they hoped, I hope; whither they have attained to, thither through
Thy grace hope I to come. I will walk meanwhile in faith, strengthened
by the examples of the Saints. I will have also holy books for comfort
and for a mirror of life, and above them all Thy most holy Body and
Blood shall be for me a special remedy and refuge.
4. For two things do I feel to be exceedingly necessary to me in this
life, without which this miserable life would be intolerable to me;
being detained in the prison of this body, I confess that I need two
things, even food and light. Thou hast therefore given to me who am so
weak, Thy sacred Body and Blood, for the refreshing of my soul and
body, and hast set _Thy Word for a lantern to my feet_.(3) Without
these two I could not properly live; for the Word of God is the light
of my soul, and Thy Sacrament the bread of life. These may also be
called the two tables, placed on this side and on that, in the treasury
of Thy holy Church. One table is that of the Sacred Altar, bearing the
holy bread, that is the precious Body and Blood of Christ; the other is
the table of the Divine Law, containing holy doctrine, teaching the
true faith, and leading steadfastly onwards even to that which is
within the veil, where the Holy of Holies is.
5. Thanks be unto Thee, O Lord Jesus, Light of Light everlasting, for
that table of holy doctrine which Thou has furnished unto us by Thy
servants the Prophets and Apostles and other teachers. Thanks be to
Thee, O Creator and Redeemer of men, who to make known Thy love to the
whole world has prepared a great supper, in which Thou hast set forth
for good not the typical lamb, but Thine own most Holy Body and Blood;
making all Thy faithful ones joyful with this holy banquet and giving
them to drink the cup of salvation, wherein are all the delights of
Paradise, and the holy Angels do feed with us, and with yet happier
sweetness.
6. Oh how great and honourable is the office of the priests, to whom it
is given to consecrate the Sacrament of the Lord of majesty with holy
words, to bless it with the lips, to hold it in their hands, to receive
it with their own mouth, and to administer it to others! Oh how clean
ought those hands to be, how pure the mouth, how holy the body, how
unspotted the heart of the priest, to whom so often the Author of
purity entereth in! From the mouth of the priest ought naught to
proceed but what is holy, what is honest and profitable, because he so
often receiveth the Sacrament of Christ.
7. His eyes ought to be single and pure, seeing they are wont to look
upon the Body of Christ; the hands should be pure and lifted towards
heaven, which are wont to hold within them the Creator of heaven and
earth. To priests is it specially said in the Law, _Be ye holy, for I
the Lord your God am holy._(4)
8. Assist us with Thy grace, O Almighty God, that we who have taken
upon us the priestly office, may be able to converse worthily and
devoutly with Thee in all purity and good conscience. And if we are not
able to have our conversation in such innocency of life as we ought,
yet grant unto us worthily to lament the sins which we have committed,
and in the spirit of humility and full purpose of a good will, to serve
Thee more earnestly for the future.
(1) Cant. ii. 17. (2) 2 Corinthians iii. 18. (3) Psalm cxix. 105. (4)
Leviticus xix. 2.
CHAPTER XII
That he who is about to Communicate with Christ ought to prepare
himself with great diligence
The Voice of the Beloved
I am the Lover of purity, and Giver of sanctity. I seek a pure heart,
and there is the place of My rest. Prepare for Me the larger upper room
furnished, and I will keep the Passover at thy house with my
disciples.(1) If thou wilt that I come unto thee and abide with thee,
purge out the old leaven,(2) and cleanse the habitation of thy heart.
Shut out the whole world, and all the throng of sins; sit as a sparrow
alone upon the house-top,(3) and think upon thy transgressions with
bitterness of thy soul. For everyone that loveth prepareth the best and
fairest place for his beloved, because hereby the affection of him that
entertaineth his beloved is known.
2. Yet know thou that thou canst not make sufficient preparation out of
the merit of any action of thine, even though thou shouldest prepare
thyself for a whole year, and hadst nothing else in thy mind. But out
of My tenderness and grace alone art thou permitted to draw nigh unto
My table; as though a beggar were called to a rich man’s dinner, and
had no other recompense to offer him for the benefits done unto him,
but to humble himself and to give him thanks. Do therefore as much as
lieth in thee, and do it diligently, not of custom, nor of necessity,
but with fear, reverence, and affection, receive the Body of thy
beloved Lord God, who vouchsafeth to come unto thee. I am He who hath
called thee; I commanded it to be done; I will supply what is lacking
to thee; come and receive Me.
3. When I give the grace of devotion, give thanks unto thy God; it is
not because thou art worthy, but because I had mercy on thee. If thou
hast not devotion, but rather feelest thyself dry, be instant in
prayer, cease not to groan and knock; cease not until thou prevail to
obtain some crumb or drop of saving grace. Thou hast need of Me, I have
no need of thee. Nor dost thou come to sanctify Me, but I come to
sanctify thee and make thee better. Thou comest that thou mayest be
sanctified by Me, and be united to Me; that thou mayest receive fresh
grace, and be kindled anew to amendment of life. See that thou neglect
not this grace, but prepare thy heart with all diligence, and receive
thy Beloved unto thee.
4. But thou oughtest not only to prepare thyself for devotion before
Communion, thou must also keep thyself with all diligence therein after
receiving the Sacrament; nor is less watchfulness needed afterwards,
than devout preparation beforehand: for good watchfulness afterwards
becometh in turn the best preparation for the gaining more grace. For
hereby is a man made entirely indisposed to good, if he immediately
return from Communion to give himself up to outward consolations.
Beware of much speaking; remain in a secret place, and hold communion
with thy God; for thou hast Him whom the whole world cannot take away
from thee. I am He to whom thou oughtest wholly to give thyself; so
that now thou mayest live not wholly in thyself, but in Me, free from
all anxiety.
(1) Mark xiv. 14, 15. (2) 1 Corinthians v. 7. (3) Psalm cii. 7.
CHAPTER XIII
That the devout soul ought with the whole heart to yearn after union
with Christ in the Sacrament
The Voice of the Disciple
Who shall grant unto me, O Lord, that I may find Thee alone, and open
all my heart unto Thee, and enjoy Thee as much as my soul desireth; and
that no man may henceforth look upon me, nor any creature move me or
have respect unto me, but Thou alone speak unto me and I unto Thee,
even as beloved is wont to speak unto beloved, and friend to feast with
friend? For this do I pray, this do I long for, that I may be wholly
united unto Thee, and may withdraw my heart from all created things,
and by means of Holy Communion and frequent celebration may learn more
and more to relish heavenly and eternal things. Ah, Lord God, when
shall I be entirely united and lost in Thee, and altogether forgetful
of myself? Thou in me, and I in Thee;(1) even so grant that we may in
like manner continue together in one.
2. Verily Thou art my Beloved, the choicest among ten thousand,(2) in
whom my soul delighteth to dwell all the days of her life. Verily Thou
art my Peacemaker, in Whom is perfect peace and true rest, apart from
Whom is labour and sorrow and infinite misery. Verily Thou art a God
that hidest Thyself, and Thy counsel is not with the wicked, but Thy
Word is with the humble and the simple. O how sweet, O Lord, is Thy
spirit, who that Thou mightest manifest Thy sweetness towards Thy
children, dost vouchsafe to refresh them with the bread which is full
of sweetness, which cometh down from heaven. Verily there is no other
nation so great, which hath its gods drawing nigh to them, as Thou, our
God, art present unto all Thy faithful ones,(3) unto whom for their
daily solace, and for lifting up their heart unto heaven, Thou givest
Thyself for their food and delight.
3. For what other nation is there so renowned as the Christian people?
Or what creature is so beloved under heaven as the devout soul to which
God entereth in, that he may feed it with His glorious flesh? O
unspeakable grace! O wonderful condescension! O immeasurable love
specially bestowed upon men! But what reward shall I give unto the Lord
for this grace, for charity so mighty? There is nothing which I am able
to present more acceptable than to give my heart altogether unto God,
and to join it inwardly to Him. Then all my inward parts shall rejoice,
when my soul shall be perfectly united unto God. Then shall He say unto
me, “If thou wilt be with Me, I will be with thee.” And I will answer
Him, “Vouchsafe, O Lord, to abide with me, I will gladly be with Thee;
this is my whole desire, even that my heart be united unto Thee.”
(1) John xv. 4. (2) Cant. v. 10. (3) Deuteronomy iv. 7.
CHAPTER XIV
Of the fervent desire of certain devout persons to receive the Body and
Blood of Christ
The Voice of the Disciple
O how great is the abundance of Thy sweetness, O Lord, which Thou hast
laid up for them that fear Thee. When I call to mind some devout
persons who draw nigh to Thy Sacrament, O Lord, with the deepest
devotion and affection, then very often I am confounded in myself and
blush for shame, that I approach Thine altar and table of Holy
Communion so carelessly and coldly, that I remain so dry and without
affection, that I am not wholly kindled with love before Thee, my God,
nor so vehemently drawn and affected as many devout persons have been,
who out of the very earnest desire of the Communion, and tender
affection of heart, could not refrain from weeping, but as it were with
mouth of heart and body alike panted inwardly after Thee, O God, O
Fountain of Life, having no power to appease or satiate their hunger,
save by receiving Thy Body with all joyfulness and spiritual eagerness.
2. O truly ardent faith of those, becoming a very proof of Thy Sacred
Presence! For they verily know their Lord in the breaking of bread,
whose heart so ardently burneth within them(1) when Jesus walketh with
them by the way. Ah me! far from me for the most part is such love and
devotion as this, such vehement love and ardour. Be merciful unto me, O
Jesus, good, sweet, and kind, and grant unto Thy poor suppliant to feel
sometimes, in Holy Communion, though it be but a little, the cordial
affection of Thy love, that my faith may grow stronger, my hope in Thy
goodness increase, and my charity, once kindled within me by the
tasting of the heavenly manna, may never fail.
3. But Thy mercy is able even to grant me the grace which I long for,
and to visit me most tenderly with the spirit of fervour when the day
of Thy good pleasure shall come. For, although I burn not with desire
so vehement as theirs who are specially devout towards Thee, yet,
through Thy grace, I have a desire after that greatly inflamed desire,
praying and desiring to be made partaker with all those who so
fervently love Thee, and to be numbered among their holy company.
(1) Luke xxiv. 32.
CHAPTER XV
That the grace of devotion is acquired by humility and self-denial
The Voice of the Beloved
Thou oughtest to seek earnestly the grace of devotion, to ask it
fervently, to wait for it patiently and faithfully, to receive it
gratefully, to preserve it humbly, to work with it diligently, and to
leave to God the time and manner of heavenly visitation until it come.
Chiefly oughtest thou to humble thyself when thou feelest inwardly
little or no devotion, yet not to be too much cast down, nor to grieve
out of measure. God ofttimes giveth in one short moment what He hath
long time denied; He sometimes giveth at the end what at the beginning
of prayer He hath deferred to give.
2. If grace were always given immediately, and were at hand at the
wish, it would be hardly bearable to weak man. Wherefore the grace of
devotion is to be waited for with a good hope and with humble patience.
Yet impute it to thyself and to thy sins when it is not given, or when
it is mysteriously taken away. It is sometimes a small thing which
hindereth and hideth grace; (if indeed that ought to be called _small_
and not rather _great_, which hindereth so great a good); but if thou
remove this, be it small or great, and perfectly overcome it, thou wilt
have what thou hast asked.
3. For immediately that thou hast given thyself unto God with all thine
heart, and hast sought neither this nor that according to thine own
will and pleasure, but hast altogether settled thyself in Him, thou
shalt find thyself united and at peace; because nothing shall give thee
so sweet relish and delight, as the good pleasure of the Divine will.
Whosoever therefore shall have lifted up his will unto God with
singleness of heart, and shall have delivered himself from every
inordinate love or dislike of any created thing, he will be the most
fit for receiving grace, and worthy of the gift of devotion. For where
the Lord findeth empty vessels,(1) there giveth He His blessing. And
the more perfectly a man forsaketh things which cannot profit, and the
more he dieth to himself, the more quickly doth grace come, the more
plentifully doth it enter in, and the higher doth it lift up the free
heart.
4. Then shall he see, and flow together, and wonder, and his heart
shall be enlarged within him,(2) because the hand of the Lord is with
him, and he hath put himself wholly in His hand, even for ever. Lo,
thus shall the man be blessed, that seeketh God with all his heart, and
receiveth not his soul in vain. This man in receiving the Holy
Eucharist obtaineth the great grace of Divine Union; because he hath
not regard to his own devotion and comfort, but, above all devotion and
comfort, to the glory and honour of God.
(1) 2 Kings iv. (2) Isaiah lx. 5.
CHAPTER XVI
That we ought to lay open our necessities to Christ and to require His
Grace
The Voice of the Disciple
O most sweet and loving Lord, whom now I devoutly desire to receive,
Thou knowest my infirmity and the necessity which I suffer, in what
evils and vices I lie; how often I am weighed down, tempted, disturbed,
and defiled. I come unto Thee for remedy, I beseech of Thee consolation
and support. I speak unto Thee who knowest all things, to whom all my
secrets are open, and who alone art able perfectly to comfort and help
me. Thou knowest what good thing I most stand in need of, and how poor
I am in virtues.
2. Behold, I stand poor and naked before Thee, requiring grace, and
imploring mercy. Refresh the hungry suppliant, kindle my coldness with
the fire of Thy love, illuminate my blindness with the brightness of
Thy presence. Turn thou all earthly things into bitterness for me, all
grievous and contrary things into patience, all things worthless and
created into contempt and oblivion. Lift up my heart unto Thee in
Heaven, and suffer me not to wander over the earth. Be Thou alone sweet
unto me from this day forward for ever, because Thou alone art my meat
and drink, my love and joy, my sweetness and my whole good.
3. Oh that Thou wouldest altogether by Thy presence, kindle, consume,
and transform me into Thyself; that I may be made one spirit with Thee,
by the grace of inward union, and the melting of earnest love! Suffer
me not to go away from Thee hungry and dry; but deal mercifully with
me, as oftentimes Thou hast dealt wondrously with Thy saints. What
marvel if I should be wholly kindled from Thee, and in myself should
utterly fail, since Thou art fire always burning and never failing,
love purifying the heart and enlightening the understanding.
CHAPTER XVII
Of fervent love and vehement desire of receiving Christ
The Voice of the Disciple
With the deepest devotion and fervent love, with all affection and
fervour of heart, I long to receive Thee, O Lord, even as many Saints
and devout persons have desired Thee in communicating, who were
altogether well pleasing to Thee by their sanctity of life, and dwelt
in all ardent devotion. O my God, Eternal Love, my whole Good,
Happiness without measure, I long to receive Thee with the most
vehement desire and becoming reverence which any Saint ever had or
could have.
2. And although I be unworthy to have all those feelings of devotion,
yet do I offer Thee the whole affection of my heart, even as though I
alone had all those most grateful inflamed desires. Yea, also,
whatsoever things a pious mind is able to conceive and long for, all
these with the deepest veneration and inward fervour do I offer and
present unto Thee. I desire to reserve nothing unto myself, but freely
and entirely to offer myself and all that I have unto Thee for a
sacrifice. O Lord my God, my Creator and Redeemer! with such affection,
reverence, praise, and honour, with such gratitude, worthiness, and
love, with such faith, hope, and purity do I desire to receive Thee
this day, as Thy most blessed Mother, the glorious Virgin Mary,
received and desired Thee, when she humbly and devoutly answered the
Angel who brought unto her the glad tidings of the mystery of the
Incarnation. Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according
to thy word.(1)
3. And as Thy blessed forerunner, the most excellent of Saints, John
Baptist, being full of joy in Thy presence, leapt while yet in the womb
of his mother, for joy in the Holy Ghost; and afterwards discerning
Jesus walking amongst men, humbled himself exceedingly, and said, with
devout affection, The friend of the bridegroom, who standeth and
heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice;(2)
even so I wish to be inflamed with great and holy desires, and to
present myself unto Thee with my whole heart. Whence also, on behalf of
myself and of all commended to me in prayer, I offer and present unto
Thee the jubilation of all devout hearts, their ardent affections,
their mental ecstasies, and supernatural illuminations and heavenly
visions, with all the virtues and praises celebrated and to be
celebrated by every creature in heaven and earth; to the end that by
all Thou mayest worthily be praised and glorified for ever.
4. Receive my prayers, O Lord my God, and my desires of giving Thee
infinite praise and unbounded benediction, which, according to the
multitude of Thine unspeakable greatness, are most justly due unto
Thee. These do I give Thee, and desire to give every day and every
moment; and with beseechings and affectionate desires I call upon all
celestial spirits and all Thy faithful people to join with me in
rendering Thee thanks and praises.
5. Let all peoples, nations, and tongues praise Thee, and magnify Thy
holy and sweet-sounding Name, with highest jubilations and ardent
devotion. And let all who reverently and devoutly celebrate Thy most
high Sacrament, and receive it with full assurance of faith, be
accounted worthy to find grace and mercy with Thee, and intercede with
all supplication for me a sinner; and when they shall have attained
unto their wished-for devotion and joyous union with Thee, and shall
depart full of comfort and wondrously refreshed from Thy holy, heavenly
table, let them vouchsafe to be mindful of me, for I am poor and needy.
(1) Luke i. 38. (2) John iii. 29.
CHAPTER XVIII
That a man should not be a curious searcher of the Sacrament, but a
humble imitator of Christ, submitting his sense to holy faith
The Voice of the Beloved
Thou must take heed of curious and useless searching into this most
profound Sacrament, if thou wilt not be plunged into the abyss of
doubt. He that is a searcher of Majesty shall be oppressed by the glory
thereof.(1) God is able to do more than man can understand. A pious and
humble search after truth is to be allowed, when it is always ready to
be taught, and striving to walk after the wholesome opinions of the
fathers.
2. Blessed is the simplicity which leaveth alone the difficult paths of
questionings, and followeth the plain and firm steps of God’s
commandments. Many have lost devotion whilst they sought to search into
deeper things. Faith is required of thee, and a sincere life, not
loftiness of intellect, nor deepness in the mysteries of God. If thou
understandest not nor comprehendest the things which are beneath thee,
how shalt thou comprehend those which are above thee? Submit thyself
unto God, and humble thy sense to faith, and the light of knowledge
shall be given thee, as shall be profitable and necessary unto thee.
3. There are some who are grievously tempted concerning faith and the
Sacrament; but this is not to be imputed to themselves but rather to
the enemy. Care not then for this, dispute not with thine own thoughts,
nor make answer to the doubts which are cast into thee by the devil;
but believe the words of God, believe His Saints and Prophets, and the
wicked enemy shall flee from thee. Often it profiteth much, that the
servant of God endureth such things. For the enemy tempteth not
unbelievers and sinners, because he already hath secure possession of
them; but he tempteth and harasseth the faithful and devout by various
means.
4. Go forward therefore with simple and undoubting faith, and draw nigh
unto the Sacrament with supplicating reverence. And whatsoever thou art
not enabled to understand, that commit without anxiety to Almighty God.
God deceiveth thee not; he is deceived who believeth too much in
himself. God walketh with the simple, revealeth Himself to the humble,
giveth understanding to babes, openeth the sense to pure minds, and
hideth grace from the curious and proud. Human reason is weak and may
be deceived; but true faith cannot be deceived.
5. All reason and natural investigation ought to follow faith, not to
precede, nor to break it. For faith and love do here especially take
the highest place, and work in hidden ways in this most holy and
exceeding excellent Sacrament. God who is eternal and incomprehensible,
and of infinite power, doth great and inscrutable things in heaven and
in earth, and His wonderful works are past finding out. If the works of
God were of such sort that they might easily be comprehended by human
reason, they should no longer be called wonderful or unspeakable.
(1) Proverbs xxv. 27 (Vulg.).