wouldst grant to me, most loving Jesus, that as I have hitherto borne the image of the earthly, I may bear henceforward the image of the heavenly, and seek to be conformed to thee, and not to this wicked world! Oh, that I may follow thee whithersoever thou goest! for whosoever says that he abides in thee ought himself also to walk as thou walkest. But how shall I be able; for thou hast rejoiced as a giant to run the way, and who can keep pace with thy steps?
§ 5. To follow Christ is glorious, pleasant, and profitable.
Christ. Strive at least to follow afar off, and to press towards the prize of thy high vocation that is destined for thee.[1] Behold with what industry the children of this world seek riches, wealth, and honours; with what patience they strive to conform themselves to the world, to please men; how anxious they are by their services to catch at the recompense of princes and the favour of the powerful! With what cheerfulness and daring do soldiers expose their lives under the eye of their leader, and fearlessly rush into every kind of danger! Yet what is the reward of them all, great as have been their labours and toils? What but a morsel of earth, wind, and smoke, vanity and affliction of spirit? For all things pass away like a shadow, and there is nothing under the sun that continues in the same state. Surely thou canst serve and please me with less toil, gain heaven and eternity with less pains, and wilt thou neglect it?
Why, then, O children of men! why do you love vanity and seek after lying? Know you that the Lord has made wonderful his Holy One;[2] I mean, he has distinguished myself by so many endowments and virtues, that my life might be a mirror and example to you; therefore follow me.
Why do you walk the difficult ways of the world, or of the flesh? Behold, destruction and unhappiness are in the ways of sinners; but my ways are fair ways, my yoke too is sweet, and my burden light. It is I that make the crooked ways straight, and the rough ways plain. The wandering I bring back, the toil-worn I refresh, and those that persevere I crown.
Therefore, if any man minister to me, let him follow me.[3] It is a great glory to follow the Lord; for where I am, there also shall my minister be; and he shall possess the kingdom that has been prepared for him from
