Page:Jesus of Nazareth the story of His life simply told (1917).djvu/17

 FOREWORD

CARDINAL GIBBONS.

We all realize that the children form the most precious portion of the flock committed to our care. The little ones were very dear to the heart of our Blessed Lord: "Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God." (Mark 10. 14). Hence we are all willing with St. Paul "to spend ourselves, and be spent" in a special manner for the sake of the dear children. In their turn the children are destined to be the people; and we know that impressions are the more abiding when made in the time of youth: "A young man according to his way, even when he is old he will not depart from it." (Prov. 22. 6). Whoever contributes toward implanting the seeds of piety and virtue in the minds of children, has a special claim to the promise of the Holy Ghost: "They that instruct many to justice, shall shine as stars for all eternity." (Dan. 12. 3). The most efficient way of forming the youthful heart to virtue and piety is to cause the love of God to predominate over the fear of God: "Be ye followers of God, as most dear children; and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath delivered Himself for us, an oblation and a sacrifice to God for an odour of sweetness." (Eph. 5. 1.). Again the Beloved Disciple tells us: