they whom we had some time in derision, and for a parable of reproach. We fools esteemed their life madness, and their end without honour. Behold, how they are numbered among the children of God, and their lot is among the saints" (Wisd. 5, 3 — 5).
Application. You became children of God by holy Baptism. Have you always lived as such? Have you always prayed willingly and devoutly, and hated sin? Think very often about God, who is everywhere, and sees into your hearts. Henoch took delight in meditating about God. Wherever he went, and whatever he was doing, he had God before his eyes. Each time to-day that you hear the clock strike, or the bell ring, make short acts of faith, hope and charity.
The children of God became corrupt, because they mixed with the children of the world. Man, being naturally inclined to evil, follows bad example very easily. “Evil communications corrupt good manners.” One bad apple taints a hundred sound ones, but a hundred sound apples cannot make the bad one good again. Beware, in future, of bad companions. They are not true friends, but the enemies of your soul. Seek the company of pious, God fearing people. “My son, if sinners shall entice thee, consent not to them” (Prov. 1, 10).
Noe’s preaching was all in vain, because the frivolous people heard him indeed with their ears, but did not take to heart what he said. In what way do you listen to sermons and instructions?
Noe feared God, but did not fear the impious world. Very often you fear men more than God. Have you never been ashamed to make the sign of the cross, or to kneel down to say your prayers, or to take holy water? Do not ever again be so cowardly! Pay no attention to the scoffs of bad people, but be strong, and fearlessly confess your faith! Pray earnestly to God the Holy Ghost for the gifts of fortitude and holy fear!
Chapter VII.
NOE’S OFFERING.— HIS CHILDREN.
[Gen. 8 — 10].
NOW God remembered[1] Noe and all that was in the ark, and He sent a wind upon the earth. This moved the waters, 2nd after a hundred and fifty days they began to abate. At length, the ark rested upon a mountain in Armenia, called Mount
- ↑ Remembered. i. e. God saw that now was the time to bring about a change in the condition of Noe.
