Christ; but, having informed themselves where they might find Him, they leave the city, with all its curiosities and entertainments, to pursue their journey. Oh that you would seek Christ as earnestly as they did, and not suffer yourself to be distracted with worldly considerations. " And, behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them." Thus, God is accustomed to be more liberal of His heavenly illustrations, in proportion as we withdraw ourselves from the trouble and noise of worldly affairs. "The star went before them, until it came and stood over where the child was: And seeing the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy" (Matt. ii. 9), especially when they saw it point out the place where they were to find the object of their longing desires.
II. "And going into the house, they found the child with Mary His mother." Meditate on their admirable faith, which was not diminished by what they saw — a loathsome stable, and an infant lying in a manger. Consider the tears of devotion, which the humiliating condition of the place, the poverty which was exhibited, then the beauty of the Infant, and the Virgin's modesty, inspired. Reflect how they were struck with admiration to see the King of kings and Lord of lords (as they now knew that He was) lying in a manger, on a bed of straw!
III. "And falling down they adored Him." (Matt. ii. 11.) They prostrated themselves before Him, with a most profound humility, as welt interior as exterior: and acknowledged their own unworthiness, their subjection to Him, and their dependence on Him. They adored Him with a most perfect act of adoration, as their sovereign Lord and God. This adoration was accompanied with an entire oblation of themselves and all their pos-
