work of our salvation. " He who created you," says St. Augustine, " without your own exertions, will not save you without them."
III. Consider the perfect example of obedience given by the servants. They make no reply; they inquire for no reason for the command, but instantly fill the vessels completely. Thus ought we to fulfil the commands of God, and the injunctions of His vicegerents, readily, entirely and fully. Almighty God will have nothing maimed or imperfect offered to Him in sacrifice. Take care that your works are full and perfect, lest you hear the complaint of God, " I find not thy works full before my God." (Apoc. iii. 2.)
WEDNESDAY.
The Marriage Feast at Cana.— III.
I. Consider the greatness of the miracle; the creature obeyed the will of Christ, and the water was immediately changed into wine. Imagine the joy which the Virgin experienced on this occasion; how the Apostles were strengthened in their faith, and how all the guests were astonished. Mark the efficacy of the Holy Virgin's intercession; by her means He wrought His precusor's sanctification and performed His first miracle. Learn hence, that all blessings, spiritual and temporal, are derived through her.
II. Consider the words of the chief steward: "Every man at first setteth forth good wine, then that which is worse." (John ii. 10.) Thus the world ever acts with its votaries; at first it presents them the cup of joy, allurements and pleasures. " Let us crown ourselves with roses," it says, "before they be withered. Let no
