sins, for he is habituated to them. He does not sit in the way, but by the way, in which the virtuous cheerfully run, and aim at perfection. " I have run," says the royal Psalmist, " the way of Thy commandments." (Ps. cxiii. 32.) The sinner sits begging some trifling and idle comfort from those who pass by; that is, he seeks for that comfort from creatures which is only to be derived from the Creator. How unfortunately blind are those people who cannot discover subjects of interest when you place before them the torments of hell or the joys of heaven! " They walk," as St. Augustine says, " from darkness into darkness."
II. Consider the fervor of this blind man, when he heard that it was Christ who was passing by. Actuated by a strong faith, he acknowledged His power and implored His mercy, "Jesus, son of David," he said, "have mercy on me." Though others endeavor to prevent him, he still perseveres in imploring Christ's mercy. The more they opposed him, the more his fervor increased: " But he cried out much more." Learn hence, that you ought to be constant and fervent in the service of God, and feel convinced that nothing ought ever to make your thoughts wander whilst you are praying for the "one thing necessary." Neither your employments nor your corporal necessities, nor anything else ought to attract your mind when you are treating with God concerning your salvation.
III. Christ stood and asked the blind man, " What wilt thou that I do to thee?" In general He does not give us His grace unless we ourselves co-operate with it. The blind man answered, " Lord, that I may see." Present a similar petition to your Lord: say to Him, " Lord grant that I may see; grant that I may see You, and see myself; 'Enlighten my eyes, that I never sleep in death;
