forward in works of piety and zeal. Apply yourself to both states in proper proportion, in order that by contemplation you may discover the will of God, and reduce it to practice in the state of active life.
II. "As soon as they came to land they saw hot coals lying, and a fish laid thereon, and bread." He Himself invites them to eat, to show His goodness and paternal providence to mankind in general, and to His Apostles and their successors in particular. He will not suffer those who are employed in His service to endure want, if they place their confidence in Him, and " seek first the kingdom of God and His justice." (Luke xii. 31.) He invites all to partake of His munificence: "Come to Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will refresh you." (Matt. xi. 28.) Accept of His invitation, and "cast thy care upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee." (Ps. liv. 23.)
III. Those whose duty it is to exercise the office of "fishers of men" ought to follow the injunction of their Master, Jesus Christ, and cast their net on the "right side." In nothing whatsoever are purity of motive and right intention more necessary than in the works of the ministry. " The Apostles," writes St. Bernard, " spread their nets to catch fish, and not gold and silver." It is the duty of every Christian, as well as of the ministers of the Gospel, to aim at the salvation of their neighbors' souls. " God has given charge to every one, of his brother." In his proper sphere and department of life every one ought to be an apostle. Examine how you perform this duty, and whether you be actuated by right intentions and purity of motives.
