power, He might have remitted all sin without assuming human nature; but if He did choose to unite His divinity to human nature, He might have satisfied the rigor of His Father's justice by the least suffering after His incarnation. But your Redeemer suffered so much in order that " where sin abounded, grace" also might " abound more." (Rom. v. 20.) He wished also to leave you a perfect example, " that you should follow His steps." (1 Peter ii. 21.)
II. Christ suffered in every scene of His life. His pains commenced in the manger, and they were continued in His circumcision, and during His flight into Egypt. He suffered from hunger and thirst, and cold and nakedness. During His passion He was scourged at the pillar, crowned with thorns, and nailed to an ignominious cross. He suffered al' this for His enemies, that is, for all sinners. Who ever suffered so much for his friends? Hence the Church, unable to restrain her feelings of gratitude and admiration, gives vent to them in the enthusiastic words, on the eve of Easter, " O happy fault, which deserved to have such and so great a Redeemer."
III. What return ought you to make to such a Redeemer? Ask yourself, with St. Bernard, "If I owe my whole self to God for having been created, what more shall I add for having been restored, and restored, too, in such a manner? For I was not so easily restored as created." Consider yourself henceforward as the servant of Jesus Christ; thank Him for the favor He has bestowed on you, and surrender yourself entirely to His service. Reflect often on the admonition of the Apostle, " You are bought with a great price; glorify and bear God in your body." (1 Cor. vi. 20.)
