Page:Imitation-of-christ-1901.djvu/49

Rh In the time of temptation, we have need of some, and of others in time of peace and quietness.

Some suit us when we are pensive, and others when we rejoice in the Lord.

6. About the time of the chief festivals, good exercises are to be renewed, and the prayers of the godly more fervently to be implored.

From festival to festival we should purpose, as though we were then to depart, and to come to the everlasting festival.

Therefore ought we carefully to prepare ourselves at holy times, and to live more devoutly, and to keep more exactly all things that we are to observe, as though we were shortly at God's hands to receive the reward of our labours.

7. But if that reward be deferred, let us think with ourselves that we are not sufficiently prepared, and unworthy yet of so great glory which shall be revealed in us in due time; and let us endeavour to prepare ourselves better for our departure.

"Blessed is that servant (saith St Luke) whom his Lord when he cometh shall find watching: Verily, I say unto you, He shall make him ruler over all His goods."