ASH-WEDNESDAY.
Christ's Sermon after Supper.— I.
I. After Christ had distributed His body and blood to His Apostles, He addressed to them that long sermon which is recorded in the Gospel of St. John. After com. munion, Christ is accustomed to treat more at large with the pious soul and He would do so with you, were you not accustomed to leave Him immediately, or to shul your ears to His holy inspirations. In this sermon He; performed the character (1) of a comforter, by alleviating the grief of His Apostles for His future absence showing them how expedient it was for them that He should leave the world. (2) He acted the part of a master, by teaching them what He wished them to observe. (3) He acted as an intercessor with His heavenly Father in our behalf, praying Him to preserve us. " Examine how you observe what He enjoins," and be thankful for the lessons which you have received from Him.
II. As our master, Christ chiefly insists on our love of His Father and Himself above all things. "As the Father hath loved Me, I also have loved you. Remain in My love." (John xv. 9.) Examine whether you love Him as He has loved you and yet there can be no comparison between the effects of these affections. His love for you is infinitely beneficial to you; yours for Him is in no respect profitable to Him. Notwithstanding this, out of pure affection for you, and to gain your love, He has given you His own precious body and blood, and even His life on the cross, for your redemption. "Greater love than this no man hath." (John xv. 13.)
III. " If ye love Me, keep My commandments; if any one love Me, he will keep My word." (John xiv. 15.) "The performance of actions," says St. Gregory, " is the
