selves. — I have trodden the winepress alone, and of the gentiles there is not a man with me." (Ps. lxxxvii. 9 and Is. lxiii. 3.) This desertion, besides, was an act that reflected dishonor and reproach on his school, since it had produced such weak and timorous disciples. But Christ was chiefly concerned for their want of faith, in which they all wavered. Take care that you do not leave Christ to suffer alone. Keep Him company, at least by affection and condolence. Submit, without repining, to the unmerited desertion of your friends.
III. Blush for the weakness of human nature displayed in these Apostles. They left Him, although they had seen the numerous miracles, which He had wrought, and had lately received the holy Eucharist, while, in the fervor of his zeal, one had said, "Though I should die with Thee, I will not deny Thee." (Matt. xxvi. 35.) No sooner were they assaulted by temptation than they all fled. Reflect how little reason you have to trust to yourself. "Son," says the Wise Man, "when thou comest to the service of God, stand in fear, and prepare thy soul for temptation" (Ecclus. ii. 1); and St. Paul commands us all " to work out our salvation, with fear and trembling." (Phil. ii. 12.)
FRIDAY.
Christ is Led to Annas.
I. " They led him away to Annas first." (John xviii. 13.) Christ consented to be brought before all the tribunals of Jerusalem, to increase His ignominy. He was therefore first led to Annas, the president of the supreme council, because it was his duty to judge of doctrine. Mark with what clamor, ridicule, and disgrace Christ is conducted along the streets, every one being occupied
