II. Christ descended from the throne of His Eternal Majesty, that He might be the Mediator of peace between God and His creatures. Hence He is called " the prince of peace." (Is. ix. 6.) At His birth the angels sang to the shepherds, that their Redeemer had come, to bring " peace to men of good will." (Luke ii. 14.) And when this Divine peace-maker left the world, He said, " Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you." (John xiv. 27.) He wished that the common salutation of his disciples should be the watchword of peace; hence, after His resurrection He more than once addressed them in the memorable words, " Peace be to you."
III. Peace-makers, " shall be called the children of God." Reflect what a dignity it is, " That we should be named and should be the children of God!" (1 John, iii. 1.) If worldly men conceive themselves elevated, when they happen to be the descendants of some earthly potentate, and pride themselves on their accidental prerogative, how much greater is the dignity of being by real adoption a son of God? Your Lord loves in a special manner all peace-makers; He treats them as His favorite children, and cherishes them with more than paternal affection. Examine how you practice this heavenly virtue, and secure to yourself " the peace of God, which surpasseth all understanding," and which may "keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." (Phil. iv. 7.)
THURSDAY.
The Eighth Beatitude.
I. "Blessed are they, that suffer persecution." (Matt v. 10.) Under the term persecution, are comprehended all kinds of injuries, afflictions and inconveniences, in re-
