mility, in the words of the admirable Canticle Magnificat, Remark that she does not entertain Elizabeth with the same praises which she had received from her, as worldly principles would dictate; nor does she, from a dissembling pretence of humility, as worldlings generally do, deny the favors which she had received: she refers all to God, and ascribes nothing to herself. Learn hence, that it is not real humility to deny or dissemble the natural or supernatural gifts which we possess. You must, however, acknowledge that they proceed from the mere goodness of God, — not from yourself or your own deserts; and you must refer to Him all the praise and honor resulting from them, and usurp nothing of them to yourself.
II. In this Canticle we are taught two important lessons: First, to rejoice and delight in God alone and in those things which appertain to our salvation, and not in the vanities and pleasures nor in the praises and favors of the world. It was God alone who had " done great things" to the blessed Virgin, and who daily does great things for His Church. " He alone is mighty, His name alone is holy, His mercy is from generation to generation, to those who fear Him." (Luke i. 49.) Not to those who contemn Him, and provoke His anger by their sins. Examine in what things you take the most delight, and whether you be in the class of those who " rejoice in most wicked things." (Prov. ii. 14.)
III. The second important lesson which we are taught in the Magnificat is, that humility is a virtue of the greatest efficacy. It was so, 1, in regard to the Virgin herself; for it was the foundation of all her greatness. She acknowledges it herself when she says, "He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid: for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed." 2. It
