Page:The Works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A. (1771 Vol 1).djvu/27

 that we may fix our thoughts intensely on that great examplar and all atoning blood; that we may grow in love with his meekness and patience, and endeavour daily to be conformed to his most blessed image. Surely we cannot grow angry at trifles, when the Son of endured such bitter usage, without the least murmur or complaint. Surely, we cannot repine at any dispensations of Providence tho' ever so severe, when we consider, how it pleased to bruise our Saviour and lay upon him the iniquities of us all. Whatever befalls us, is but the due reward of our crimes; but this Redeemer had done nothing amiss: he was bruised for our iniquities. I could run through every part of our 's sufferings, and shew how necesary it is that we should sympathize with him in every particular. But as it now grows late, and I want a little time to prepare for to-morrow's solemnity, you'll excuse me if I now only paraphrase a little on the prayer of the thief on the cross. remember us and pray for us; remember us and rule us;  remember us and prepare a place for us. remember us in the hour of death, and in the day of judgment. My due respects to all friends, and am sincerely

Yours, G. W.    LETTER XIII. To Mr. S.

My dear Friend,          Gloucester, June 20, 1736.

THIS is a day much to be remember'd, O my soul! for about noon, I was solemnly admitted by good Bishop Benson, before many witnesses, into holy orders, and was, blessed be, kept composed both before and after imposition of hands. I endeavoured to behave with unaffected devotion; but not suitable enough to the greatness of the office I was to undertake. At the same time, I trust, I answered to every question from the bottom of my heart, and heartily prayed that might say Amen. I hope the good of souls will be my only principle of action. Let come what will, life or death, depth or heighth, I shall henceforwards live like one who this day, in the presence of