THE VIRGIN MARY'S LIFE, Faithfully gathered out of ancient and holy fathers, TOGETHER WITH MEDITATIONS AND DOCUMENTS UPON THE SAME. written first in Italian by the Reverend father LUCAS PINELLI of the Society of JESUS. And now translated in to English by R. G. Ec. 24. vers. 20. As cinnamon and aromatical balm have I given an odour. AT DOUAI BY LAURENS KEL with Priulege. MDCIIII S JOACHIM S ANNA engraved title page depicting the Virgin Mary and Saints Joachim and Anne TO THE RIGHT REVEREND, RELIGIOUS, AND VIRTUOUS LADY, the Lady joane Barkley, Abbess of the English Nuns in Brussels. I Have been so bold, Religious and virtuous Madam, as to direct this little book to you, and make you a present thereof, as one worthy to receive & keep such a jewel. Worthy I say, to receive it, because of your rare virtue, so many ways and years uttered to the world, by your both Religious vocation and manners: worthy to keep it, because I know right well, how much more you do value and esteem spiritual, then temporal treasures. The took, Madam, is in quantity very small, but in substance passing great. For that it containeth the life of our blessed Lady, that is, of the most excellent, most worthy, and most holy person (Christ JESUS her son only excepted) that either lived at any time in this world, or now reigneth glorious in heaven. In somuch that, all duly considered, for me to commend you this work itself, were a thing superfluous: to request you to accept it, were a thing needless: to pray you to take it in your custody and keep it, were but to make estimation of you, far otherwise then your godly & virtuous state doth deserve. This one thing I will add and end therewithal, that if my small pains taken in the translating of it, may any wise benefit your spiritual good and consolation, and advance you in the devotion of this blessed Virgin Mother of God, I will think them well employed. And so desiring as well to be remembered in your fervent devotions, as also that this offer, such as it is, may serve for witness of my dutiful affection, to further that of your good self and yours to wards this mother of mercy and her sweet son JESUS, I commend your to them both, and humbly take my leave: wishing you in this world, Madam, all abundance of heavenly grace and contentment, and in the world to come, everlasting felicity and joy. Yours, Madam, in Christ jesus, to command R. G. THE AUTHOR TO THE CHRISTIAN AND DEVOUTE READER. FOr so much as in this most noble City of Naples, devout Reader, there be many Congregations dedicated to the glorious Virgin, and blessed mother of God. which oftentimes did come together, not only to praise and honour the Queen of heavens, but also to exercise themselves in mental prayer, a mean most effectual, whereby to amend and direct our life, and my Superiors deeming that it would be a great help to such, as be devout to the Mother of God, if they might have an abridgement of her life and actions, both to consider and imitate them: this there godly desire did animate and spur me forwards to write this little book, which doth contain first the Story of the Virgin Maries life and manners, faithfully gathered out of ancient and holy fathers, with the citations of their books, which for more briefness and facilities sake to find out, the places that be alleged, at here set down in latin. After this there be immediately set down for each history, three short points where upon to meditate, taken out either of the history that goeth before, or of some other godly considerations; to the end that each one may have sufficient matter, whereof to think and discourse: because our mind and understanding, when it hath some beginning and ground, doth easily discourse of itself, and findeth out divers conceits and spiritual thoughts, in which the soul is much comforted, and entering into itself doth thereby reap great fruit and commodity. Finally after the points of meditation, there do follow three documents or instructions, awnswering to the said points, which documents put in practice, will serve undoubtedly as a wonderful aid, to direct and conform our lives and actions, according to those of the blessed Virgin, our Queen and Sovereign. Marvel not, Christian Reader, that I in this little book do lay, before thine eyes the virgin Marie, for a pattern to imitate her life & manners? seeing that Sophronius doth confess the Virgin Marie, to be the form and Rule of Christian discipline, given by almighty God to men, next after Christ the first and chiefest precedent of all perfection. Rupertus likewise avowcheth, that our Saviour Christ ascending up into heaven, leas● the virgin Marie for a mistress of Christian belief, & life. And long time before them both, that worthy and holy martyr S. Ignatius, named the virgin Marie the mistress of Christian Religion: which office of mistress, she did rather perform in works & examples of perfect and sound virtues, then in words. In somuch that who soever will consider with diligence the course of the virgin Maries life, shall evidently perceive that the providence and wisdom of God did so dispose her life, that it might serve for an example to all sorts of person, as I will manifest by the ensuing discourse. The Virgin Marie from three years of her age until fourteen, remained with other virgins in the temple of jerusalem, in which place, with her abhorring the vanity of the world, with her prompt Obedience to the Superiors of that place, with her diligence in prayer and devotion, with her modesty and humility she taught as well virgins, as other religious women, how each of them ought to behave themselves in their state and calling. Afterwards till near forty and five years, she was a mistress to married women, and such as have care of how should: for albeit she was the Queen of Angels, the mother of God, and full of all grace and wisdom, yet she did obey, honour and respect her spouse joseph, with whom she lived always in concord and quietness. Besides this, in this care of her house and bringing up of her son Christ, she was most diligent: for she did so well dispose and appoint her time, that neither the affairs of her house did hinder her prayers, nor these were any impediment or let, to such domestical business as pertained to her charge. In the rest of her life which was, according to the more common opinion, until threescore and three years of age, she was an example and mistress to widows and poor women, because she in her widow state, as S. Brigit writeth, as it were dead to the world, did live wholly to God; & given to contemplation of celestial things, did lead a life rather divine than human. Her provision was small and fit for poor folks, and some do esteem that she, after the Ascension of Christ, did live as the Hebrew widows were wont to do, of the common alms and collections, which in the primitive Church were gathered to sustain the poor. To be short, she taught by her example how every one ought to behave himself as well in time of prosperity and favour, as of adversity and tribulation: for somuch as in all the gifts and favours that she received at God's hands, she did humble herself with all her heart; as appeareth in this, that being chosen the mother of God, & having understood such news from the Angel Gabriel, she called herself the servant and handmaid of our Lord. And when she went to visit S. Elizabeth, and was by her saluted very magnifically, and as the mother of God: she did magnify our Lord, acknowledging all her good to come from him. So that in prosperity she teacheth us to humble ourselves, and to praise alinghtie God. But in tribulation and adversity she hath given us such rare examples of virtue, that if the afflicted and vexed in this life would well consider them, their tribulalations would not seem to be so grievous as they do As for example sake, the Virgin Marie in this life had no other good but one only son, which was of infinite bounty and perfection, for that he was in one person both God and man, now she did see this her son to be of envy accused, & unjustly condemned to the most grievous torments that could be imagined, even to the most infamous death of the Cross. She did see him also die upon the Cross betwixt two thieves, and was not able to afford him the least comfort that could be devised: when not withstanding she did support all these injuries and cruelties, with incredible fortitude of courage, not moved to indignation against those envious accusers, not lamenting of the wicked jews, nor reproaching the Apostles that so disloyally had forsaken their master. Yet were the Virgin Maries tribulations not ended with this, for that Artopheius saith after the Ascension of Christ, she was greatly persecuted of some malicious and wicked people, who did vex and molest her by using her spitefully in works, and detracting of her good name in words: but she with patience and praying to God for her persecutors, did overcome the evil will of them al. Accept then, good Reader, this so perfect a pattern and mirror of Christian perfection: and I do exhort thee, if to d●●e thou canst take thereby some fruit for thy soul, not to expect and deffer till to morrow. I do also exhort thee to cleanness and purity of mind, which will make thee fit first for meditation, and then to be more beloved and favoured of the Virgin Marie, who hath particular care and protection of those that be chaste and pure: finally I do exhort thee to practise those documents that do immediately follow the meditations, which documents do direct us to do well, and to bridle our passions and disordered appetites. For to make goodly discourses, to find out deep conceits in meditation, and afterwards not to work well according to our good determinations and instructions, is even as if one heard a good sermon full of excellent doctrine & wholesome counsel, but never did practise any of all those things he had heard. THE TRANSLATOR to the Reader. I Send thee, Benign Reader, this little Treatise of the life of our blessed Lady, which I transtated out of Italian into English, as a pawn of a bigger bulk concerning the same matter, remaining yet in my hands: which ended, will give thee, I hope such satisfaction and contentment, touching this point of her life together with many other things, as therein may make for the spiritual good of thy soul, and further thee exceedingly in devotion and duty towards the Virgin mother of God and Queen of heaven, that thou shalt little need hereafter, if I be not deceived, to expect any other discourse of this matter. In the mean season I do most heartily request thee, that as this my endeavour doth only respect thy souls spiritual benefit, that God may be glorified in thee, and thou thyself be saved: so thou willingly a ford me, thy prayers to assist me, as well in this work which I do promise thee, as also that serving his divine majesty according to my vocation, we may both at length enjoy his everlasting glory. Thy heartily affected well willer. R. G. Ad Sanctillimam Virginem-Dei Genitricem Mariam. HYMNUS. AVe suprema Virginum, Magni parentis silia, Et sponsa Sacri Flaminis, Christique mater inclyta. Vestita sole fulgido, Quae calce lunam subteris, Et cincta stellis tempora, Splendiscis intra Regiam. Tu Mosis arca mystica, suave manna continens: Tu clausus hortus undique, Turrisque munitissima. Tu fortitudo Martyrum, Decusque Confitentium, Tu Virginum pulcherrima, Regina caelo praesides. A te parens mitissima, Opem gementes poscimus, Dulcem praecare silium, nostra tollat crimina. Summo parenti Caelitum, Magnaeque Proli Virginis, Sancto simul Paraclito, Sit summa laus & gloria. Amen. ℣. Ora pro nobis sancta Dei genitrix. ℞. digni efficiamur promissionibus Christi. Oremus. Concede nos famnlos tuos, quaesumus Domine Deus, perpetua mentis & corporis sanitate gaudere: & gloriosa beatae Mariae semper Virginis intercessione, a praesenti liberari tristitia, & aeterna perfrui laetitia. Per Dominum nostrum jesum Christum filium tuum, qui etc. To the most holy Virgin mother of God Marie. An Hymn. Hail of all Virgins the most high, Daughter of father eminent, And of the holy Ghost the spouse, Of Christ the mother excellent. Clodde with the sun that shineth bright Thou under foot the moon dost tread, And crowned with a crown of stars, In heavens court sun beams dost spread. Thou Ark of Moses' mystical, Dost manna sweet in thee enclose, Thou garden shut on every side, And tower that fenced is from foes. Thou art the martyrs fortitude, Of Confessors the worthiness, Above all Virgin's fairest thou, In heaven art Queen Governs Of thee o mother to us most mild. We much lamenting succour crave: Pray to thy sweet son that he, Our sins to took away vouchsafe. To highest father of all Saints, To the great son of Virgin free. Likewise unto the holy Ghost. Most worthy praise and glory be. AMEN. ℣. Pray for us o holy mother of God. ℞. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Let us pray. Grant us thy servants, we beseech thee o Lord, to enjoy perpetual health of mind and body: and by the glorious intercession of the ever blessed virgin MARIE, to be delivered from this present sorrow, & to enjoy everlasting gladness. Through our Lord JESUS Christ thy son, who, liveth and reigneth, etc. THE HISTORY OF the virgin Maries Conception. 1 THE Virgin MARY'S conception was of two sorts. One was eternal in the mind of God; when he did choose her to be mother of the Saviour of the world, & allot her the most excellent gifts, that could be imparted to any pure creature: wherefore a Trag●d de Christ● patient. Nazianzenus saith, that no creature can be compared with the virgin Marie, who surmounteth all in grace and perfection: An other conception, was temporal in the womb of her mother S. Anne, in the year after the creation of the world according to b In cap. 2. Matth questio. 91 Abulensis, three thousand, nine hundred forty & six. joachim was her father, and both her parents were noble no less of lineage than virtue: 〈◊〉 contrar Colyr. haer. 70. Nice●ho. li. 1. ●ist. cap 7. Nissen. de humana Christi generatione. who as Epiphanius and others do recount, albeit they were old, & lived many years in wedlock without issue, yet because they had great hope in god, & had also vowed to consecrate unto him the child they were to have, they did not cease to demand the same of our Lord continually, with prayers, fastings, and alms. For so we read in d Tomo. 4. de nativitate B. virgins. S. Hieroms works, that yearly they divided their substance into three parts, giving one to the Temple, and ministers thereof; an other to poor folks, and pilgrims: and reserving the third part for themselves. r Beda in martyrolo. Finally after twenty years passed they obtained the desired favour: for the eight of December S. Anne conceived our ever B. virgin Marie. Points for Meditation. 1 Consider how god, choosing the virgin Marie for the mother of his only begotten son, did adorn her with great perfection, his custom being to bestow grace and ability upon each one, according to the office and dignity he doth give him. 2 Consider how the virgin Marie was also preserved from original sin, for so much as god was able to do it, and that he should do so, it was not only convenient, but likewise did redound to the honour of Christ, to have a mother that neither should be enemy to god, nor subject to the devil as all those are, that be conceived in original sin. 3 Consider how S. Anne, which was great with child, did feel marvelous effects, because the grace of the virgin Marie was so passing excellent & plenteous, that it redounded also to her mother. Documents. 1 Thrust not thyself into offices & dignities, for god doth give grace to those, whom he hath elected & chosen, to pre-eminency. 2 If original sin do make a man subject to the devil, and an enemy to god, what will actual sin do? fly it therefore more than death. 3. If thou also hast a desire to feel strange effects, have the virgin Marie always in thy heart. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's Nativity. 2. a Epiph citato. EPIPHANIUS and b Germa. Sermo▪ de oblatione Mariae. S. Brigida lib. 1. revelat. ca 9 Germanus Patriarches of Constantinople do record, that the virgin Maries parents retiring themselves, joachim into a mountain of the desert, where he fasted forty days, & Anne into a garden of hers, there to pray God, that he would vowchsafe to deliver them from the ignominy of barronnes; an Angel revealed to joachim that he should have a child, & that Anne had now conceived. And so when Herod the Idumean reigned in jewrie, who by force and unjust dealing took the royal sceptre from the tribe of juda, & was the first foreign king of the jews, in which time according to the c Gen. 49. prophecy of jacob the Messias was to come even then the virgin Marie was borne to wit d Abulē● citat. three thousand, nine hundred, forty & seven years after the creation of the world, the eight day of September, and this not without mystery: for that in the same month, as the jewish tradition doth make mention, Eve was created by God in the terrestrial paradise e in ca 1● joan. Theophilactus and Euthiminius do write that Marie was the only daughter of Anne, who never had any other husband than joachim; neither had one or the other any more children than Marie. So that when S. f cap 19 john doth call Marie of Cleophas, sister of our Marie the virgin, it is to be understood that she was her kinswoman, like as Sara said she was Abraham's sister, that is, allied to him. Points for Meditation. 1 Consider the joy the virgin Marie brought to her parents, by her nativity; who, as we may think, did with great devotion offer her up to God, as soon as she was borne. 2 Contemplate how this celestial & heavenly dawning, with her birth giving joy to heaven & earth doth end the obscure night of damnation, and begin the happy day of salvation. 3 Behold how Marie is that house, in which the king of eternal glory was to repose, builded by god for his own use: who wanting neither wisdom to dispose the same in the best manner, nor power to adorn it, we ought to believe that she had all perfection possible. Documents. 1 If thou acknowledge whatsoever good thou hast, to come from god; besides that the same shall be always blessed, & more perfected in thee by him, thou shalt also receive much more. 2 If thou through sin shalt become blind, or through passion feeble in the eyes of thy understanding, thou shalt not enjoy the dawning, & much less the son: that is to say thou shalt be deprived of the virgin Maries favour, & of the grace of Christ her son. 3 Thou mayst also be the reposing place of god, if yet neither sin, nor vanity of the world do dwell in thee, which both be odious to him. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's Presentation in the Temple. 3. WHen the virgin Marie was three years old, joachim and Anne according as they had vowed, did present her to the Priests of the Temple, who as a Euod sua epis Ecclesia ca Euodius and b N pho li. cap. 7. Nicephorus do affirm, received her as a precious gift consecrated to god, to bring her up with the virgins of the Temple. c De hi● Christi. genera. Nyssenus writeth, that in the Temple there was a separated place, where all those virgins were trained up, that were dedicated to god, & that Marie remained there, into which place no women entered that had been married. But d Orig tract 2 in Ma Origenes & e Cyril adverse Anth. morp. 〈◊〉 Cyrillus Alexandrinus do say that Marie, after she had brought forth Christ, entered there also as a virgin: a thing which the jews reprehended, but Zacharie father to john Baptist defended the same, who knew the mystery of the virgin's childbirth, f Euod. cit. Marie dwelled in the Temple twelve years, and g Cedrens in compend. histor. Cedrenus saith that she went not forth from thence, except it were for some necessity to her cozen Elizabeth, which did make her abode near the Temple: moreover h Nicom. homil de oblat. virg Georgius Nicomediensis doth say, and i Ambros lib. 2 de dirge. S. Ambrose confirmeth it, that the virgin Marie was in that place often visited by the Angel. In the eight year that she remained in the Temple, which was the eleventh from her age according to k cedar cit. & Canis. de B. Maria lib. 1. cap. 13. Cedrenus, she became orphan by the death of her parents. Points for Meditation. 1. Consider the diligence of joachim and Anne in fulfilling their vow, for as soon as Marie was weaned, they did present her to the Priests of the Temple. 2. Consider how the Priests were comforted to see the little virgin Marie so modest and devout, and how inspired by God, they received her with particular gust & reverence, as a most holy pledge, to bring her up amongst the other virgins of the Temple. 3. Consider the devotion with which the virgin Marie did offer herself wholly to God, and what contentment she did feel in her heart, being to pass her childhood, separated from the unquietness of the world, in a holy place, and with holy exercises. Documents. 1. Not to satisfy a vow made, or to deffer the same without lawful cause, the one, and the other, doth displease God. 2. Have great respect to such things as be dedicated to God, because he esteemeth the honour, or contempt done to them, as done to himself. 3 Thou shalt live always discomforted, if thou do not separate thyself, at least with this affection, from the transitory things of the world. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's life in the Temple. 4. Andrea's Cretensis doth write that the virgin Marie, De dor●itione ●e pa. whiles she dwelled in the Temple amongst the virgins, did so give herself to learning, that she understood very well the law & the Prophets. b Lib 2. cemp. ca & lib. ●. cap. 4 Sabellicus doth report, that she divided the daie-time in this manner. In the morning, for three hours space, she gave herself to prayer & devotion, from thence forth, until midday, she sat at her work with the other virgins, & that for the most part spinning; after dinner she did read the holy scripture. c Lib. 1. re●●l cap. 10 & lib. 3. ●●p 8. Ga●●tin. lib. 7 ●arca. who. ve●●t. cap. 5. S. Bright seeteth down very largely the manners and customs of the virgin Marie in her youth, and amongst others relateth these: She contemned riches and wealth, in so much that what she could get, she gave to the poor; She took delight in nothing but in god; She did willingly and often talk of the future Messias; she did with draw herself, as much as she could, from worldly discourses; she did force her body, of which the Angels had care, to be obedient in all things to the soul: she was so comely and modest, that she moved to devotion such as did behold her. d In compend. h●stor & Canis. li● cap. 13. Cedrenus doth recount that at twelve years of age, being at midnight in prayer, she heard these words Thou shalt bring forth my Son, the which she did not manifest to any man in the world, until Christ was ascended into heaven. Points for Meditation. 1. Contemplate how the virgin Marie, all the time she did dwell amongst the virgins of the Temple, was a lively pattern of perfection, because she did in every thing observe herself, walking always in the presence of god. 2. Consider how the virgin Marie, for her modest holiness and wisdom, was beloved of all her companions, and esteemed as their mistress, so that they had recourse to her for comfort and counsel, and she did most kindly receive, comfort, and help them. 3. Consider how all the virgins of the Temple did bear great reverence to the virgin Marie: to whom she was not only a mirror of virtue, but did her best to instruct them in perfection, and when need was, to pacify & accord them. Documents. 1. If in all things thou wilt observe thyself, procure with the virgin Marie to be always in God's presence. 2. To be loved and esteemed for any other respect, then for virtue & goodness, is a thing that dureth little, and is less worth. 3 Good speech, accompanied with good example, doth edify, but with ill example, it destroyeth. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's spousage with S. Ioseph. 5. WHen the virgin Marie, was fourteen years old, the Priests of the Temple, as a In ora●● de nati. Domini. Nissenus doth recount sent her to her kinsfolks in Nazareth, that according to the custom, she might be married, because in the Temple they did not treat of matrimony, and some little while after, by advise of the said Priests, she was despoused to joseph a just man, who was of the same country, and Tribe, that Marie was. b De perper. virg. Mariae. Hugo de Sancto Victore writeth that the virgin Marie did consent to the matrimony, because she understood that such was Gods will, & knew likewise by revelation, that joseph would live most chaste with her. Concerning the vow of virginity that Marie did make, although c Quidan Scholasti & Brig●da cit. some say she made it with condition, if it so pleased God, yet S. d 〈◊〉 Thom. 3. 〈◊〉 q. 28. ar. Thomas, with e Augus●● de sancta virgini. ●● cap. 4. S. Augustin doth hold, that she, before she was despoused had purposed virginity, and after matrimony contracted with her husband, both of common consent did vow perpetual virginity. History But be it howsoever, yet two things are here certain. One is, that the virgin Marie before she was announced by the Angel, had vowed virginity, as f afterward shall be declared. An other we have out of Bede, h Bed. hom. ●e annun. & serm. 4. ●e assump. Ruper. ●●b. 3. in ●ant. Rupertus, & i Abd. in ●●ta S. Bartholom. ●anis. li. 2. ●●p. 14. Abdias, to wit, that from the creation of the world, the virgin Marie was the first amongst women, that by perpetual vow did consecrate her virginity to god. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how god ordained the virgin Marie should take a husband, to deliver her from the suspicion of the world, if unmarried she had brought forth Christ. 2 Contemplate how Marie though she did far exceed her spouse joseph in wisdom, virtue and holiness, yet did she bear him respect and honour him as her ealder, considering in his person god, who had given her him. 3 Contemplate how the virgin Marie never leaving her devotions, was withal most diligent in government of her house: in so much that joseph was astomed at it, and did also bear her great reverence. Documents. 1 Seeing that god is a most wise Lord, if thou be not more than proud, thou must by the virgin Maries example, approve and execute whatsoever he doth ordain. 2 If thou do not honour thy elders, thou wilt displease god, and dishonour thyself. 3 Temporal exercises must be accommodated, as much as is possible, to those that be spiritual, so that these be not hindered nor disturbed by the others. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's Annunciation. 6. FOuere months, saith a In epist. Euodius, after that the virgin Marie was despoused, God sent to her the Angel Gabriel, who as b ●●t. lib. 1. ●●sic ca, 18 Hier. in ●●ist● ad ●ustochiū. hom. 3. S. Ambrose etc. Hierome writ, entered to the virgin in a man's shape, she then being recollected as d S. Bernard saith in her closet at prayer: he saluted her; & said that she was to conceive & bear the Saviour of the world. e B. virg. cap. 1. Ansel. ●om. intra it JESUS August. ●e sancta ●irgine ca ●. Saint Luke telleth how the virgin hearing herself saluted with so great praise; was troubled thereat, and afterwards asked how that might be done, because she knew not man: that is as f Holy fathers do expound it, she had vowed never to know man, but to remain still a virgin, to whom the Angel answering did say, that it should be done by work of the holy Ghost, without violating either vow or virgintie. Then the virgin did humbly give her consent, to what soever god did command her. g In Litu●gia. S. Chrysostom will that the word was incarnate, when the Angel said, our Lord is with thee. But h Augu●●● de fide a●● Petr. ca 1● S. Augustine and i Damas●● de fide orthod. lib. ●● cap. 2. Damascene do think, that it took flesh when the virgin Marie did give her consent, Behold the handmaid of our Lord, be it done to me according to thy word. Now when the Angel had thus ended his embassage, and given news to the virgin Marie, that also Elizabeth had by gods will conceived in her old age, he departed, and she followed on her prayer. Points for Meditation. 1. Contemplate how the virgin Marie desiring to be servant to the Messias mother, & requesting this at gods hands: the Angel came to her, who saluting her with humble reverence, did call her full of grace, and blessed among women. 2 Contemplate how the virgin hea●ing herself saluted in such manner, ●as troubled: & thinking what kind of salutation this might be, the Angel told her, how she was chosen of god, for mother of his son the Mesias. Comtemplate how understanding also that she should be both a mother and virgin, she did not wax proud by reason of so great dignity, but did humble herself saying, Behold the handmaid of our Lord, be it done to me whatsoever he ordaineth. Documents. 1 If thou wilt be exalted of God, procure by the example of the virgin Marie, that thy humility come in deed from thy heart. 2 Do not thou seek nor rejoice to be praised of men, seeing the virgin Marie, was troubled when she was praised of the Angel. 3 If thou desire that thy soul be precious and beautiful to the eyes of our Lord, adorn the same with chastity and humility as Marie did hers. OF THE VIRGIN Maries visiting Elizabeth. 7. a Lucae. cap. 1. When the virgin Marie had understood of the Angel, how God had so favoured Elizabeth that she had conceived, notwithstanding her barrenness and old age, rising from her prayer she went to visit her, and rejoice with her of the favour bestowed upon her. In which voyage, although it were painful, because it was through mountains, and long, for that from Nazareth whence she departed, it was three days journey to the country of jerusalem, as b In Lucae● cap. 1. Bede and S. Augustine do write, where Zacharie made his abode: yet c Serm▪ de verbis Apocal. S. Bernard saith that the virgin going thither, did not feel that weariness, which women are accustomed to feel after they have conceived, because that which she had conceived was not human but divine. d Lucae. cap 1. Arrived that she was to Zacharies' house she did greet Elizabeth, and her salutation was of such force, that even the infant in Elizabeth's womb did leap for joy. The virgin Marie remained there about three months. e In Lucae. ●ap. 1. Theophilactus doth write, that she departed from thence, before Elizabeth was delivered of her child, & S. Luke doth seem to insinuate this, partly because it was not convenient that virgins should be present at women's delivery, partly also for that many came thither to see the miraculous childbirth of Elizabeth. f homil. advent. 6. & Canis. lib. 4. cap 3. Eusebius Emisenus saith that all those of Zacharies' house had taken so great affection towards the virgin Marie, that they remained extreme sorry at her departure. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how the virgin Marie, when she had given thanks to our Lord for the benefit bestowed upon her, went to visit and serve her cozen, Elizabeth: in which voyage we may well think, that many squadrons of Angels did accompany their King & Queen 2 Consider how at the going of this sacred ark, Zacharies' house was blessed, for that Elizabeth was repleinished with the holy Ghost, and john Baptist was sanctified in her womb before he was borne. 3 Contemplate how Elizabeth, astonished that the mother of god with so so great humility and charity did come to her, crying out did praise her, but the virgin with a holy canticle did magnify our Lord, referring all her good and praise to him. Documents. 1 How much thou art exalted of god so much more oughtest thou, by the example of the virgin Marie, to submit thyself, for the love of him, to thy neighbour. 2 Dost thou desire to enrich thy soul? Seek to converse with those that be holy and acceptable to god. 3 To glory of such things as be spoken in thy praise, or not to acknowledge the good thou hast received, to come from God, is nought else but to steal from god, that which is his. OF THE VIRGIN Marie suspected of Ioseph. 8. a Matth. ●a. 1. THe virgin Marie being returned from Elizabeth to her house in Nazareth, and now great with child for three months, and joseph not knowing what had passed betwixt the Angel Gabriel & her, he began to suspect: on the one side he saw the virgin in all her actions resemble holiness and chastity, and knew likewise that she had vowed virginity: on the other side he beheld her great with child, and saw that she held her peace, not making him acquainted with the matter, wherefore doubting whether this were a thing done by god, or some human weakness, he resolved not to accuse her to the judges, nor diffame her, but to departed from her. And as he was thinking of the matter, the Angel appeared to him in sleep, and told him that he should not fear to abide with the virgin, because she had conceived by work of the holy Ghost, and should bring forth a son that should be called JESUS, who should save his people from their sins. b Orig. ser. 1. exdiversis. Origen and c Bernar● Hom 2. d● B. Maria S. Bernard do hold that joseph believed the virgin's greatness with child to be some divine thing, and that he thought himself unworthy, to remain in the company of so holy and virtuous a person, and therefore did think to departed from her. Points for Meditation. 1 Consider how joseph seeing the virgin Marie with child, and not knowing the manner, remained astonished & confounded: and because he had always known her to be very holy he resolved to leave her secretely, & rather lead a Pilgrim's life abroad in the world, then to accuse or diffame her. 2 Contemplate how the virgin Marie not knowing whether it were the will of god, she should discover the mystery to her spouse, did rather choose to let this suspicion run of herself, then to disclose it, having yet first commended the matter to god in her prayer. 3 Contemplate how these two married persons, being so troubled & afflicted, god by an Angel revealed to joseph the mystery of the Incarnation, done in the virgin by work of the holy ghost, where upon both parties did humbly give thanks to our Lord. Documents. 1 Learn of joseph rather to suffer, then to diffame thy neighbour. 2 It is better to conceal the favours of god, which make for our praise, as the virgin Marie did, then to divulge them easily. 3 How much less thou art culpable and worthy of blame, so much the more willingly accept of tribulations, which if they be not to purge thy fault, will serve to increase thy glory. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's Childbirth. 9 WHen the virgin Marie had prepared some clothes for her little child, according to her poverty, and the time of her delivery began to draw near, there came forth, saith a Cap. ● S. Luke, an edict from Caesar Augustus, that the whole world should be enroled, for every one to pay tribute in his country, wherefore the virgin Marie and joseph, went from Nazareth to the city of David called Bethlem, because they were of the house and family of David. The voyage was very noisome to the virgin, for that it was in winter, through mountains, and near four days long. Being come to Bethelem, they found all the Inns taken up, so that they were forced to retire themselves into a stall, where the blessed virgin in the night was delivered of her son Christ JESUS, god and man. In which childbirth. b ●rat. 1. ●resur●●. Chri●● Nyssenus and c ●erm. 4. ●●igil. ●●iu. Do ●●i. ●●e insti●●. virg. S. Bernard do avouch that the virgin Marie felt no pain nor travel at all, but exceeding joy and comfort d 4. ●e virgi● Mariae S. Amhrose and e 4. ●●pr. ●●m de 〈◊〉 Chri●● S. Ildephonsus do add also, that the virginal cloistre of our Lady did remain entire and whole. f ●●ierom. ●●a Hel●●. S. Cyprian likewise and g ●cae. ca Canis. 2. ca 9 S. Hierome do teach us, that there was no Midwife present, but the virgin herself was both Midwife and Nurse. The Shepherds, who had been warned by the Angels, that sung Glory in the highest to God, came to the stall, and with great humility and devotion adored the holy infant. Points for Meditation. 1 Consider how the virgin Marie & joseph, to obey the emperors edict, went with great travel towards Bethelem, where finding none that would lodge them, they retired themselves into a stall. 2 Contemplate how there in the night, the virgin feeling an exceeding jubilee of heart, lifted up her mind to god, and being wholly ravished in him brought forth without pain her son Christ our Lord. 3 Contemplate how the virgin, beholding the divine fruit of her womb did with humility adore it as her god, and afterwards obtained of him licence to touch him, did with motherly love take him in her arms, giving him her virgin breast, and milk to suck. Documents. 1 Behold how the virgin doth not murmur at the Prince's order, nor lament of those that did not lodge her, do thou the like, when for lodge her, do thou the like, when for observing the commandments of God thou must needs suffer. 2 Dost thou desire to do many good works without weariness and pain? do them willingly and for the love of Christ. 3 Then will Christ become thine, when thou shalt use him as the virgin Marie did, with humility and love. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's Purification. 10. AS soon as forty days were ended of the virgin's Purification after her delivery, Lucae. 〈◊〉 2. she went to the Temple in jerusalem to offer her son, & give as the law ordained a pair of turtles or two young pigeons, albeit (as divers holy b fathers do say) the virgin was not bound to any such law, Beda in ca Lucae. Guari. neither needed she purification, for that she had not conceived by work of man, 〈◊〉 Ser. 2. 〈◊〉 purifitione et ●ij. ●uitici ca 〈◊〉. of which yet law maketh express mention. At that very time Simeon came into the Temple, who amongst all the other mothers that were there to be purified, did see the virgin Marie, In orat 〈◊〉 Proph. ●meonis. Marry, as d Timotheus priest of jerusalem recounteth, environed with a wonderful great and divine light: and seeing that other women were desirous to be dispatched first, he said to them: o ye servants, will you go before your Lady and mistress? e Cap. 2 Canis. li 4. ca 9 S. Luke saith that Simeon was a just & religious man, who had received an answer from the holy Ghost, that before he died he should see the Messias: he did see him now, & take him in his arms, blessing god with all his heart. And afterwards turning himself to the virgin Marie, he told her that jesus should be set for a sign of contradictions, and that a sword of sorrow should pierce her soul. Points for Meditation. 1 Consider how the virgin Marie, though she needed no purification, yet by the example of her son, who was circumcised, not needing the same, would according to the law be purified, leaving thereby, to us an example of obedience, humility and mortification. 2 Consider with how great modesty and devotion, the virgin entered into the temple, and with how great zeal and spiritual feeling, she did offer both herself and her son to the father of heaven. 3 Consider how the virgin having heard that dolorous prophesy of Simeon, was nothing astoined at the matter, as who had wholly resigned herself, to gods will and pleasure. Documents. 1 Woe to him that is, but will not seem to be a sinner, seeing Christ and his mother cared not to be accounted of as sinners, to observe the law of god, though in deed they were not such. 2 Learn of the virgin in what manner thou oughtest to enter & remain devoutly in the Church, which is made to honour god therein. 3 Put all thy hope in god, and so neither prosperity shall lift thee up to much, nor adversity to much abase thee. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's flight into AEgipt. 11. THe fame of the child jesus growing daily more and more, a Matt. & Luc. ca 2. & Rabanus in 2. c. Matth. through the wonderful things which were spoken of him, as well by the shepherds touching the revelation they had from the Angel, as also by the Sages concerning the new star which they had seen, and finally by that which Simeon and Anne had said in the Temple. b Chrisos● in 2. cap. Matth. August. serm de Epiph. & serm. de Innocent. Herode as a most cruel tyrant, entering into suspicion & fear of losing his kingdom, principally for that the Sages told in jerusalem, that he whom they did seek, was borne king of the jews: he commanded that all the children of Bethelem should be murdered, thinking so to make Christ away with the rest. But god by means of an Angel revealed all the matter to joseph, ordaining that he should fly into Egypt together with the child jesus and his mother, and joseph with great diligence did perform it. This voyage was much more cumbersome than the others past, because it was so deign and unexpected, into foreign countries, and amongst barbarous people. c In ca 2. watch. Anselmus and d Niceph. b. 10. ● 〈◊〉. 31. et ●●ij ut re●●rt Hiero●●●●b. 5. in ●●ai. ca ●9. ●●anis. lib. ●● cap. 6. Nicephorus Callystus do recount, how at the entering of Christ into Egypt, the devils trembled, and the Idols fell down to the ground, not being able to stand in the presence of jesus who was the true God. Points for Meditation. 1 Consider how the virgin Marie to save the little child jesus, whom Herode sought to murder him, was forced to leave her country and friends, and fly into Egypt, God having so ordained. 2 Contemplate how much the virgin did endure, in so painful & long a way, and what grief her heart did feel, to see the little infant jesus also suffer, not having, by reason of their poverty, what was necessary for him, nor being able to have provided before necessity constraining them to fly by night, and also suddenly. 3 Consider how the virgin doth not mumur of Herodes cruelty, nor complain of god, that he doth not deliver the little babe from that danger by some other means, but she taketh all in good part. Documents. 1 If tribulation were not a thing profitable, god would not have sent it to his son & the virgin Marie whom he loved so dearly. 2. If thou wilt suffer nothing in this life, and yet dost think to have joy in the other, thou dost deceive thyself, because thou desirest to be more, than was either the virgin Marie or Christ thy Lord. 3. If in adversity thou do lament and mumur, thou errest, showing thereby to be displeased with that, which pleaseth God, and he sendeth thee for thy good. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's abode in Egypt. 12. AFter a long and wearisome way, the virgin Marie at the length arrived in the land of Egypt, a Brocardus in descriptione terrae sanctae in fine. distant from Bethelem, whence she departed, twelve long days journey. In which voyage it is credible, as b In concord▪ evang ca 11. jansenius saith, that the virgin consumed and spent all that, which by God's inspiration she had reserved to this end, of the gifts presented to jesus by the three Sages. She did settle herself in a place called Materea near to Cairo, for five years space; in which time, with her own labour and that of joseph her spouse, they maintained themselves, & brought up Christ. c Ita refe●unt, qui id ●iderunt Peregrini In the house, where this holy family, did dwell, remaineth yet a miraculous fountain of water that springeth up: there is also to be seen a little garden, in which time past did grow certain small trees of balm. In this place, those of Egypt, to conserve the memory of such holy inhabitants, were wont to keep a Lamp still burning, until the year a thousand, five hundred and threescore. Many pilgrims likewise do go thither to visit that place for devotion, who all do tell strange effects of that water▪ and say it is so good, that those called the Bassa of Cairo do drink thereof. Moreover they do report, that there is in the same place a most sweet savour, although the dwelling be now near fallen down. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how the virgin Marie, arrived in Egypt, did find neither provision made, nor house prepared to refresh herself after the travail of her voyage, so as we may think that for those first nights, she retired herself to the poor pilgrims lodge. 2 Contemplate that although the virgin, as a poor stranger, wanted many things necessary for her, yet did she never want her virtues, in so much that she never did abandon her devotion, & had diligent care to provide for her house. 3 Contemplate how the virgin, in all the time of this her banishment, did live very poorly: and when commodities wanted for bringing up her little babe jesus, she did supply with her motherly love and solicitude. Documents. 1 If thou wilt live quiet in whatsoever place, be it never so incommodious, thou must make small account of thyself, and be contented with little as the virgin Marie was. 2 Have whatsoever thou canst desire, yet thou shalt never be content, unless thou give thyself to the exercise of virtue. 3 Behold how the most dear friends of God live sparingly, and so beware thou of superfluity, for it displeaseth God, who hath given thee sustenance, and whatsoever else that is good. OF THE VIRGIN Maries losing of Jesus. 13. WHen Herode was once dead, the virgin Marie with joseph and jesus returned to Nazareth, a Matt ca 2. as the Angel had ordained, who again appeared to joseph in sleep. From Nazareth the virgin went every year with jesus and joseph, at the solemn day of Pasche, to adore in the Temple of jerusalem, although the same was distant three days of, and the b Exod ca 〈◊〉 & Deuter● ca 6. virgin not bound to go. jesus being then twelve years old, remained in jerusalem. The virgin Marie not finding her child, the first day at night, amongst her kinsfolks, in whose company she thought that he had gone (for as c In cap Lucae Canis. de 〈◊〉 Mar. li● 4. c. 15. Bede saith, it was a custom among the jews, in their devotions, to go separate men from women, and that the children might go with whom of them they would) she returned back with joseph to jerusalem, where the third day she found him in the temple in the midst of the Doctors. And his mother ask him what he meant to tarry in jerusalem, & make himself be sought with so much grief, he answered that they ought to remember, that he being sent to seek the glory of his father, was to be found in the affairs and place of his father. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how the virgin went yearly, for her devotion, at the feast of Pasche to adore in jerusalem, and once it fell out that she turning back, jesus remained there. 2 Contemplate how the virgin Marie not seeing her beloved jesus at night, nor finding him amongst her friends and kinsfolk, with whom she thought he had been, full of sorrow she went out of hand with joseph, to seek him in jerusalem. 3 Consider how the afflicted mother after three days weeping & suspiring, found her beloved son in the Temple amongst the Doctors, whose sight and presence gave her no less joy, than his absence and loss had given her sorrow. Documents. 1 Learn of the virgin Marie not to abandon nor blame thy devotions, when for them thou dost suffer any adversity or damage. 2 Learn also not to delay to seek Christ, and have him with thee, for besides that thou dost lose much, thou dost put thyself in great danger. 3 Thou seest that the virgin did not find Christ amongst her kinsfolk, but in the Temple, so likewise thou shalt find him in spiritual things, but not in flesh and blood. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's spouse Joseph his death. 14. IT is not altogether certain at what time the virgin Marie became a widow. a Haeres. ●8 contra Antid. Epiphanius is of opinion that joseph deceased, Christ being thirteen years old. b In com●end. hist. Cedrenus saith he died when Christ was of thirty years. c Ambro. de instit. dirge. c 7. & epist. 79. S. Ambrose and d Hiero. contra Hel●uid. S. Hierome do write only, that joseph was then dead, when Christ was crucified. e Matth. ca 1. This holy man was of the royal stock of David, and being chosen of God for the custody of two so precious treasures, as were Christ & the Virgin, it is to be thought that he was such a one, as the holy scripture and f Damasce de fide orthad lib. 4. ca 15. ancient fathers do report him to have been, just, religious, prudent, faithful, and endued with many other virtues. He was not only chaste, as g Hiero. count Heluid. S. Hierome, h Augu. Serm. 15. de nat. Do mini. S. Augustine and others do affirm, but also did die a virgin, as not having any other wife than the virgin Marie, with whom, as i 3. p. q. 28. are 4. & ad Galat. ca 1. S. Thomas saith he vowed virginity. And albeit the virgin was a most beautiful creature, nevertheless her countenance did cast forth such holiness and grace, that as k Lib▪ 1. revel c. 1 & lib. 3 ca 8. S. Bridget writeth she moved all that did behold her to the love of virtue, and much more did she move joseph to the same, whose concupiscence, saith l De nat● Mar. cons● 3. Canis. lib. 2. ca 13. Gerson, was either extinguished or so repressed, that he never felt in himself any disordinate motion. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how the holy old man joseph being near the end of his life, jesus and the virgin did help him to die well, whose soul was forthwith carried by the Angel into Abraham's bosom. 2 Contemplate how the virgin, conforming herself to gods will, did support with patience the death of her faithful spouse, albeit the same was to her a thing very incommodious, because the life of such a saint did much help and comfort her. 3 Contemplate how the virgin, though she remained young and needy, did not therefore lament of god, nor complain of her state, nor envy at those that were married, but seek by good works to please god also in that state of widowhood, and to perfect herself in the same. Documents. 1 Be thou pure and chaste as joseph, and affected to the virgin Marie, and she will aid thee in that dangerous passage of death. 2 If in the adversities that God doth send thee, thou be impatient & troubled, thou dost lose the fruit thereof, & tribulations become more grievous. 3 Learn of the virgin Marie to please god, and according to his will, to perfect thyself in the state he hath put thee. OF THE VIRGIN Marie in time of her widowhood. 15. THrough the death of joseph, there grew to the virgin Marie some difficulty of household, Lib. 2. cem ca ●● & 9 & lib. 3. 〈◊〉. 4. yet a Sabellicus writeth that she had so well disposed her spiritual exercises, and the affairs of her house, that the one did not hinder the other. For she did give the beginning of the day to godly contemplations, and that towards night she did apply to read holy scripture, of which she was so greatly enamoured, that, as b Lib. 2. de virgini. S. Ambrose writeth she repeated sleeping the night, what the day time she had read. She had her appointed time for sleep, albeit as c Lib. 1. revel. ca 10. & lib. 3. ca 8. S. Bridget reporteth, she had so accustomed her body, that not only in sleep, but in whatsoever else it was obedient to the soul. d de arcan Catho. verat. lib. 7. ca 5. Galatinus telleth us that the virgin had such a spirit of prophesy, that she did still shut her eyes and ears, when she was to see, or hear any things unlawful or impertinent. e In epist. Canis. lib. 1. ca 13. Ignatius doth likewise recount, that the virgin Marie was so sound in the love of her neighbour, that she did not only show herself kind to the jews, that persecuted Christ, but having compassion of their imperfections, did also seek to do them all kind of service, that she could. when Christ did come to her house with his Apostles, she did feel particular joy of spirit, so that she received them with great cheerfulness & contentment. Points for Meditation. 1 Consider how the virgin Marie now a widow, was no less diligent in prayer, then in the care of her house so that when Christ and his Apostles did come to her, she caused all things to be in readiness according to her poverty. 2 Consider how the virgin in her conversation was so grave and modest that she was amiable to all, and with her exaple did inflame others to love God and virtue. 3 Contemplate how the virgin did never mumur, nor permit others in her presence to speak evil of the jews, that were her sons enemies, but did excuse them and pray god for them. Documents. 1 Hast thou a desire, that thy temporal affairs may have good success do thy spiritual exercises well, as the virgin Marie did hers. 2 Thou shalt never inflame others to virtue, if thou be cold in prayer, and careless in giving good example. 3 To excuse, & pray god for him that doth persecute thee, is the reunegment of good Christians: grateful to god, displeasing the devil, and profitable to the soul. OF CHRIST HIS departing from the virgin Marie. 16. CHrist our Saviour was in a town called Bethania, a jansenius in concorc. 128. & Stella. in Luc. 〈◊〉. 22. two miles of jerusalem, in the house of Martha & Marie Magdalen, as b Bonau. in medie. c. 4. & 62. Bonaventure saith, with whom also the virgin Marie was, and when upon thursday he had sent Peter and john to jerusalem, to find a place where to celebrate the Pasche, the time of his departure now come, he took his leave of his dear mother which remained fraught with sorrow, because she knew that jesus was to be delivered up into his enemies hands, to endure exceeding torments, and finally to die upon the cross as a thief. There is no doubt but that the virgin weeping and taking no repose all that night, did expect still to hear most heavy news of her son. c Canis. lib 4. ca 25. And in deed as soon as jesus was apprehended in the garden, a messenger, who peradventure was some one of the Apostles, went to Bethania to carry tidings to the virgin, how jesus was now betrayed by judas, taken by the jews, and lead away bound to the judges. The virgin Marie having understood this doleful news, sobbing and sighing, and accompanied with the other Maries, went to jerusalem. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how the virgin Marie, when she understood of jesus, that now the hour of his passion was come; and that for this effect he was to go to jerusalem, it being his eternal father's will, was strooken at the heart with such bitter sorrow, that not able to speak, she did power out from her eyes streams of tears. 2 Contemplate how the virgin, whiles she stood lamenting, had news that jesus was then taken. Think now what a cruel dart this was to the heart of that most loving and kind mother, which did bear so great affection to her son jesus. 3 Contemplate how the virgin Marie strait upon this news went to wards jerusalem, offering herself, if it had so pleased almighty god, either to die for jesus, or to die with jesus: seeing ●hat to live without jesus, was to her 〈◊〉 continual and most painful death. Documents. 1 If the virgin Marie did remain so ●uch afflicted for the departing of ●hrist, in what state shall that miserable ●ule be, which Christ hath abandoned by reason of sin? 2 Learn of the virgin not to blasheme god, nor be angry, when any ill news is told thee. 3 If to live without jesus be a most painful death, what shall it be to live in mortal sin, which is to live against jesus. OF THE VIRGIN Maries going to mount Caluarie 17. When the virgin Marie entered into jerusalem, a Bonau. in Meditatio. she did find the whole city bend and moved against jesus; and because the people were incited, encouraged and persuaded by the Scribes and pharisees, to cause Christ to be condemned as a malefactor, the afflicted mother was constrained to hear infinite injuries, and horrible blasphemies against her son jesus, throughout all the streets of jerusalem, by which she was to pass going to mount Caluarie. But how much this virgin did suffer this day, which was good friday: holy fathers do declare with divers examples. b Lib. 4. de fid. orthod. ca 15. Damascene writeth that the virgin marry did feel those bitter pangs, and pains at the time of Christ his passion, which she did not feel in the time of his nativity. And c In tractat de Compass. virgins. S. Bernard saith, that what effect the nails, and other instruments (of torment) did work in the body of our Saviour Christ; the very same they wrought in the soul of the virgin, by reason of her motherly compassion. d Luthim. in Luc. ca 2. Luthimius and e Beda ib. & Canis. lib. 4. ca 25. & 26. Bede do record, that the pain of our saviours passion, did pierce even through the heart of the virgin, like that sharp sword, that was prophesied & foretold by holy Simeon: in somuch that f Ansel. lib de excellen. B. Mariae. ca 5. Anselmus, g Bernard serm signum mag. S. Bernad h ●ldeph. Ser. 2. de assum. virgini. Ildephonsus and others do affirm, that the virgin Marie was a martyr, and more than a martyr. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how the virgin Marie made that voyage, weeping all the way: and arrived that she was at jerusalem, she did understand the injuries and outrages done to her son, which were so many swords to her heart. 2. Contemplate how it also pierced her heart, to hear reported, that not only any one person had not spoken ought in favour of the innocent jesus, he having bestowed so many benefits upon them all: but also that he was forsaken of his own disciples. 3 Contemplate moreover, what pain that of the virgin was, when going to mount Caluarie, she did hear the strokes of those wicked torturers, that so cruelly nailed her son to the Cross. Documents. 1 Learn of the virgin Marie how thou must behave thyself in tribulations: first thou must not grudge against the creatures, that do thee any harm or injure, no more than the virgin did against those, that either did procure the death of Christ, or execute the same. 2 Thou must not lament neither of thine own condition, nor of God who did permit it to be such as it is, but seek to take profit thereby for thy soul, as god doth pretend. 3 Albeit thou feel grief and disgust, yet with thy will and higher part of the soul, which remaineth free, thou must praise god. OF THE VIRGIN Marie seeing Christ on the Cross. 18. THe virgin Marie when she was come up to mount Caluarie, a joan. ca 19 did see her son crucified betwixt two thieves: and whiles with most doleful tears she stood beholding this lamentable pageant, jesus did regard her from the cross with great compassion, & showing her john his disciple, said to her, woman behold thy son, and after he said to the disciple, Behold thy mother. b Serm. stabatiuxta Cruc. S. Anselmus doth avouch, that the virgin Marie showed in that place such rare virtues, as she was the glory of all women sex: for when the disciples had forsaken their master, the virgin did not abandon him, and when others fled for fear, she remained steadfast in faith, and constant at the foot of the Cross: with great sorrow she had exceeding patience: she did not curse, nor mumur, nor demand revenge against her enemies at gods hand. And c In eadem. Ser. Stabat. S. Bernard saith, that the virgin, although she was overwhelmed with sorrow, did not yet commit any undecent act, nor show any sign of impatience, but keep herself always within the bounds of reason and modesty. d In lament. Mana Canis lib. 4. ca 25. & 26. S. Ephrem the deacon doth also write, that the virgin, at the foot of the Cross, did adore, and worship with all reverence the wounds, the afflictions, and magnanimity of jesus, & eftsoon offer them up to god, for the redemption of mankind. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate the exceeding great sorrow and compassion of the virgin Marie, when she did see her innocent and dearly beloved son all berayed with blood, & as a malefactor hanging upon the Cross, betwixt two thieves. 2 Consider how the virgin was so afflicted, that jesus enduring the cruel torment of the cross, had compassion of her, and therefore gave her S. john for her son, and herself for his mother. 3 Contemplate how the virgin, at the death of her beloved son was the most discomforted of all mothers, for that she was present, and yet could not help him, who died in so great pains and torments. Documents. 1 Every time that thou dost look upon the Crucifix, think that for thy sins the son god was crucified, and so with the virgin Marie thou wilt have compassion and sorrow of him. 2 In all thy necessities make recourse to the virgin, seeing god hath given us her for our mother, in the person of S. john, and us to her for her children. 3 If Christ and the virgin did suffer in this life so great afflictions, how dost thou think to live without adversity, and in continual pleasure & comfort. OF THE VIRGIN Marie holding Christ dead in her arms. 19 THe virgin Marie stood at the foot of the Cross, 〈◊〉 Matth. a. 27. Mar. ca ●5. Luc. ●a. 23. ●oan. ca ●9. when at jesus death the sun was darkened, and the earth did quake: and being very desirous to have in her arms the body of her beloved son, behold, one of the soldiers with a spear opened his side. There is no doubt but that this spear did wound also the blessed mother with exceeding grief, who although she were displeased with that fierceness of the soldier, which did show himself so cruelle to wards one that was dead, yet she was not moved against him. b Canis. lrb. 4. de B. Mariae. ca 26. To be short, upon friday at night, because it was not expedient that the dead bodies should remain upon the Cross in the Sabbath, the body of jesus was unnailed, and taken down from the Cross and laid in the arms of his pitiful mother, which she most dearly did embrace and worship, and often kiss those holy wounds, offering them up to the eternal father for the salvation of the world. Here the other Maries did weep most abundantly, seeking by this means to accompany the virgin, whose sorrow and lamentation, as c In joan. ca 19 Serm Stabat in●xta Crucem. Anselmus saith, was passing great, because the love that she did bear to jesus, was also great: yet the same was always joined with such comeliness and grave behaviour, that no man could reprehend it. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how the virgin Marie, when she could not have her son alive, desired to have him being dead: but before she could obtain this, a soldier with a spear did open his side, not without horror & grief of the mother. 2 Contemplate the dolorous lamentation that the virgin made, when she had once in her arms that sacred body whose wounds she did kiss with great devotion, and wash them with streams of tears. 3 Think what grief of heart the virgin did feel, when she was constrained to leave that holy treasure to be buried, and afterwards was forced to departed from the sepulchre, which yet she did not without many sobs and sighs. Documents. 1 Learn of the virgin Marie how thou must behave thyself, in the death of thy dear friends. Think first that god being a most kind father, what he doth and permitteth, he doth for our good. 2 Hence it is that thou must not lament, neither of god, nor of his creatures, nor of thine own case. 3 Suffer not thyself so to be carried away with sorrow, although the same be very great, that thou commit thereby any lightness or undecency: having still before thine eyes, the modesty and gravity of the virgin Marie. OF THE VIRGIN Marie seeing Christ resuscitate. 20. THere is no certainty, into what place the virgin Marie did retire herself, after that jesus was buried, nor in what place Christ did appear unto her after his resurrection: if not, that a Lib 2. histo. ca ● Nicephorus doth say, that she dwelled in S. john's house, near to Zion in jerusalem. And this is very likely to be so, for that the virgin was extreme weak, partly in respect of her continual weeping, partly also because all that day she had eaten nothing: in so much that it is credible she went not from jerusalem, but that S. john, to whom Christ commended her a little before, did lead her to his house, where she expected her son knowing for certain, that he was to rise from death the third day. But be it howsoever, that which b Augus lib. de sancta virginitate. ca 3. Ruper. lib. 7. diu. office ca 25. Anselm. de excel. virg. ca 6. holy fathers do affirm, & is certain, is this: that the virgin Marie was the first, to whom our Saviour appeared after his resurrection. And as c Epiph. ●on. haer. & libel. Aetiq Canis. lib. 5. ca 1. Epiphanius doth write, she was the first that did adore him, being glorious. In deed it was convenient for such a son, so to behave himself towards such a mother, not only because he gave us the law to honour father & mother, but also because the virgin did receive extreme pain and sorrow, of his passion and death, more than any othres, yea above all others: so that she deserved to be comforted before any other, & more than any else whosoever. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how the virgin Marie, being as it were buried in her chamber for sorrow, jesus appeared unto her raised from death, and being all glorious, all bright, and accompanied with squadrons of Angels, and holy fathers out of Limbo: & think what unspeakable joy the virgin did feel of so glorious apparition. 2 Contemplate how the virgin, seeing jesus so glorious, did first worship him as her God, and then embrace him as her son, kissing eftsoon the sacred wounds, which did shine in his glorious body as so many precious stones. 3 Contemplate how the virgin did give her son most hearty thanks, for his dear visiting of her: and pray him to go comfort the Apostles and other devout persons, with his glorious resurrection. Documents. 1 If thou wilt endure nothing for the love of Christ, thou shalt not be visited nor comforted of him. 2 Learn of the virgin not to be to joyful in time of prosperity, but to adore and thank God the author of all good. 3 Learn also of her to have charity towards thy neighbours, and to wish and procure their comfort, in time of afflictions and travails. OF THE VIRGIN Marie after Christ his Ascension. 21. AS the common opinion is, the virgin Marie lived fifteen years after the Ascension of Christ into heaven: in which time she was occupied in advancing the primitive church of Christ, which in those beginnings was mightily persecuted; so that she did animate all, & teach them how to behave themselves in their actions & persecutions, moreover a De excel Mar. ca 7. & Me●aphrat in ●rat de dor mit Deiparae. S. Anselmus doth write that the virgin understanding more profoundly those verities, which the holy Ghost had revealed, did teach and declare many things also to the Apostles, with whom she always lived familiarly, leading with them an Apostolical life. b Tragae. de Christ patient. Nazianzenus saith, that after the Ascension of Christ, she did foretell the jews of the destruction of jerusalem, for the sin committed against the Messias. c Serm. de Assumptione. Sophronius also doth report, that oftentimes she visited the mount Caluarie, the holy sepulchre, and with great devotion did kiss the footsteps of Christ, which he le●t printed in the mount Olivet. d Canisius lib. 5 ca 1. Some be of opinion that she did live of the common alms, with which the widows of the primitive Church were wont to be maintained. e Lib. revel. cit. S. Bridget writeth, that the virgin did not only fortify and confirm those new Christians in their faith, but also convert many jews and Gentiles to the knowledge of Christ, and that for this cause, God did conserve her alive after Christ his Ascension. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how after the Ascension of Christ, the virgin Marie remained as a mistress and giude of the faithful, wherefore in all their doubts and travails, they had recourse to her. 2 Contemplate how the virgin did receive every one very kindly, comfort the afflicted, pacify those that were at discord, and instruct them all in the law & faith of Christ, in which good works she could not but endure many incommodities. 3 Contemplate how the virgin at her times appointed, did give herself also to the contemplation of celestial things, and to visit the holy places, leaving in all her actions rare examples of virtue, and excellent perfection. Documents. 1 For so much as the virgin Marie was left us for our mistress and guide; thou art unwise, if thou go not after her, following her virtues. 2 If Christ and his mother did suffer many incommodities, to help their neighbours, it is a sign, that whosoever will help others, must also endure some discommodity, and not seek his own contentment. 3 If thou wilt have affection to heavenly things, think upon, them often, as the virgin did, and consider that god did create and make thee for them, and not for these things upon the earth. OF THE VIRGIN Marie requesting favour to die. 22. WHen the primitive church, through the labours of the virgin Marie, was for the space of fifteen years meetelie well established, and increased by persecutions; the virgin demanded of our Lord to end her Pilgrimage, and pass to an other life, there to be more united with her son. And the time being now come, which God had appointed for this purpose, a Lib 2. hist ca 21. Metaphras in orat de vita & morte virgins. Canis. lib 5. ca 2. &. 3. Nicephorus doth report that our Lord sent her an Angel, which brought her the joyful news of her departure from this banishment to heaven, and giving her a branch of a palm tree, foretold her the day of her decease. This tidings was to the virgin Marie of exceeding ●oie, and so dear, that she could not be satiated to thank God, but all full of joy, she did communicate to her friends and devout persons the revelation which she had received from the Angel, and showed them the branch of palm which the same Angel brought her. She caused certain poor garments that she had, to be given to two poor widows her neighbours Nichephorus doth moreover add, that to the house where she was, there came a great multitude of Christians, which with tears did lament, seeing themselves to be shortly bereft of such a mistress, and the only comfort that they had; but the virgin Marie did exhort them rather to be glad, then to mourn and lament. Points for Meditation. 1 Consider how the virgin Marie was inflamed with the love of her son jesus, in somuch that she often demanded of our Lord, to departed out of this life, to go to him, and enjoy him in heaven, remitting herself nevertheless to his holy will & pleasure. 2 Contemplate how the Angel sent by God, did reveal to the virgin, that now was the time, in which she must pass to a better life, to enjoy everlastingly her dearly beloved son, and the fruit of her works. 3 Contemplate the great jubilee, which the virgin did feel of so happy news: forsomuch as in this pilgri mage she did neither desire, nor think upon any other thing. Documents. 1 Because thou knowest not what is best for thee, thou must even in those things that seem very holy & good, resign thyself as the virgin Marie did, to the good pleasure of almighty god. 2 God is wont to grant his favours at the time by him appointed, and therefore lament not, if thou do not suddenly obtain what thou demandest. 3 If thou desire that the tidings of death be joyful to thee, with draw thy thoughts from earth lie things, and affect thyself to heavenly things. OF THE VIRGIN Marie being near to die. 23 THe time approaching near in which the virgin Marie was to departed out of his life to the celestial jerusalem, God did not cease to show her new favours, for he would that all the Apostles should find themselves present at her death as a Metaphras orat de vita & morib. B. virg Nicepho lib. 2. hist. ca 3. Damasce. orat. de. dormit & assum virg. many writers do affirm. And setting a part the testimony of b Dion. Areop. de dui nomi. ca 2. Dionysius Areopagita, who was there present, I will here lay down that, which. c Inuenalis apua Euthim in vet. hist. S. Juvenalis Bishop of jerusalem did answer to Marcianus Emperor being demanded of him touching the death of the virgin Marie. Albeit, saith he, holy scripture doth not speak of the death of the virgin Marie, yet we have by an ancient and most true tradition, that at the time of her glorious parting out of this life, the Apostles that were in divers parts of the world, in a moment were lifted up into the air, and came together in jerusalem, and were present at the death of the virgin Marie. Besides this S. d Ansel. de excellentia virg. ca 8. Anselmus and e Nicepho citat. ca 21. Nicephorus do say, that Christ also came from heaven in company of many Angels, to be present himself in parson at the death of his most dear mother, and to receive her soul. The like long before these men did write f Vbi supra Canis. lib. 5. ca 3. Damascenus, setting down the discourse and speech, which passed at that time betwixt the mother & the son, as hereafter shall be declared. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how as soon as the time of the virgin Maries happy departure was come, the Apostles came to jerusalem from divers parts of the world to be there then present: almighty God disposing this so for honour and comfort of the virgin. 2 Consider how Christ our Saviour came also down from heaven, to be present likewise himself at the death of his dear mother, and to receive her soul. 3 Contemplate how the virgin, the more greater joy she felt in her heart, did the more humble herself, and with most cordial affection thank our Lord, for so many great graces and favours. Documents. 1 In the time of thy death or sickness, procure to have always some spiritual parsons near unto thee. 2 Cease not to lead a virtuous life as the virgin Marie did, and Christ will not fail to assist thee at thy death. 3 Give thy self to God with all thy heart, and serve him with true humility, if thou desire to live and die content. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's death. 24. THe virgin Marie deceased in jerusalem in S. john's house, being about threescore and three years old. a Lib. 4. reu●la. ca 23. S. Brigett telleth us that she died most quietly, without any fear or pain. b In orat. de assump Deipare. S. Damascenus is of opinion, that a little before the virgin gave up her ghost, she said to jesus, Into thy hands o my son, I commend my spirit: receive now my soul so dear unto thee, which thou hast kept free from all spot of sin. To thee likewise and not to the earth do I give my body, in which it pleased thee to dwell. draw me to thee, that I may be there, where thou art, the blessed fruit of my womb. The self same father doth also say, that Christ did answer her in this sort-come, o my blessed mother into my repose, come o pure & beautiful amongst all women, because in thee there is no spot. c Lib. 2 ●hist. ca 21. Nicephorus doth recount that the virgin Marie speaking these words, Be it done to me again according to thine word, gave up her blessed soul into the dear hands of her son jesus, & so she remained as if she had been a sleep d In hist. ●ete. Euhim. S. Juvenalis also did say to the Emperor Marcianus, that at the death of the virgin were seen many Angels, and most sweet songs of the high powers, and the virgin in an unspeakable manner did give up her gracious soul into the hands of God, moreover e In orat. le Assum to. Canis. ●ib. 5. ca Andrea's Bishop of Candie doth tell how there came a great multitude of Angels from heaven at the death of the virgin. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how the virgin being ready to pass out of this life, having commended her soul to her maker, did also commend to the Apostles the faithful of Christ, particularly those that were afflicted and troubled. 2 After this done, lifting up her eyes to heaven, and beholding steadfastly her son jesus, she demanded his benediction; which obtained, that most blessed soul of hers, did departed out of the body without any fear, and did fly into the arms of jesus. 3 Contemplate how jesus did receive the most pure soul of his dearly beloved mother, and with Angelical hymns did convey the same into heaven; those that were then present remaining astonished, and with tears giving thanks & praise to God for al. Documents. 1 See what account the virgin Marie did make of helping her neighbours; that departing out of this world she did commend them to the Apostles. 2 If thou wilt not be afraid at thy death time; procure that thy conscience be clean from sin. 3 Thou art fully deceived, if being a live thou care not for heaven; and yet dost think, that dying thy soul shall fly thither. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's funerals and burial. 25. AFter that the virgin Marie was departed this life, the Apostles took her sacred body out of the bed, in which before her death she did remain apparelled and put in most decent manner, and laid her upon the bier. a Lib. 2. hist. ca 22. Nicephorus doth report that there was great concourse of deaf, blind, and other lame folks, who all were most miraculously cured with touching only that sacred body. This done-there was a procession set in order: & some of the Apostles went before with lights in their hands, some others carried the coffin, and all singing holy hymns b Andrea's Creten. orat de Assump. B. Virginius. Damascin orat de Dormit. & Assáp virg. Canis. lib. 5. ca 3. went towards getssemani, where she before had appointed to be buried. The same author doth recount, and others also do avouch, that through all the way were seen in the air many squadrons of Angels, which did accompany the blessed body of their Queen. He saith moreover, that a certain priest of the jews, moved of haterd and envy, was so rash and unconsiderate, as to push the bier thinking to throw the same to the ground: but he was forth with punished by god, for that his hands were separated from his arms, and did stick hanging to the coffin. whereupon the poor wretch astonished with the miracle, did suddenly repent himself, and with tears demanded pardon: so that by S. Peter's appointment the procession was stayed, and the jew approaching near to the coffin with great reverence, his hands by a new miracle were restored to him again. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how as soon as the virgin Marie was dead, the Apostles with great reverence, but not without tears, did put her body in order to carry it to be buried, and to do the funeral exequys accustomed. 2 Moreover consider the procession, with which that holy tabernacle of god, was carried to be buried by the Apostles: accompanied with a great multitude of Christians, which by the way did still sing holy hymns. 3 Contemplate how when they were come to the place, and had celebrated the exequys that sacred and virgin body was of all blessed with great reverence and devotion, and after honourably buried. Documents. 1 Learn herehence how to celebrate funerals after a christian manner. first thou must not put thy self to superfluous charges in things, which do not help the soul of him that is dead, but rather nourish vanity in those that be alive. 2 Thou must not lament the dead immoderately, but rather pray for their souls. 3 Thou must make account of funerales, as of a warning which god doth give thee, thereby to prepare thyself to die well. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's Assumption. 26. THat holy Bishop a Nicepho lib. 2. hist. ca 23. S. Juvenalis doth tell us, how the Apostles remained at the sepulchre of the virgin Marie for three days, hearing continually a most sweet harmony of holy hymns. After three days were passed, it seemed to the Apostles for consolation of S. Thomas (who was not present at her death) to open the sepulchre, and to show him the sacred body. And when they had discovered the place, they found not the body, but they did feel a most sweet savour, and found only the linen in in which the body was wrapped, which they did kiss for devotion. And that the blessed virgin was raised up the third day, and in soul & body assumpted into heaven many holy fathers do tell us. b Oratio. de Assup. S. Damascenus doth write that the virgin as the daughter of the old Adam, was subject to the old law of ●ea●●●: but in as much as she was the mother of the living god, she was from the sepulchre conjoined to him. c In entonio de dor nit virg. 〈◊〉 Part. 3. annal. & ●d Alip. 〈◊〉 Serm. de ●it. & lormit. dirge Canis ●ib. 5. ca 4.5. & 〈◊〉. Andrea's Bishop of Candia doth say in this sort. She that brought forth the author of life, being raised up again, findeth herself now there where is present the perpetual fountain of life. Michael Glycas doth report that the virgin Marie died according to the laws of nature, but by grace she was raised again, as her son. Metaphrastes also doth avouch that the most blessed body of the virgin, was by god translated into the divine and celestial tabernacles. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate in what manner the blessed body of the virgin Marie laid in the sepulchre, was not only void of corruption, but also did cast from itself a most sweet savour. 2 Contemplate how God ordained that the third day the soul of the blessed virgin Marie should descend from heaven to earth, to be reunited to the body her faithful companion, of which she received no small joy and contentment. 3 Contemplate how that glorious soul came from heaven accompanied with squadrons of Angels, and so was reunited to the body: in somuch that the virgin being raised the third day, went into heaven with great triumph. Documents. 1 If thou desire that thy body give a sweet savour to God after thou art dead: endeavour to keep it chaste whilst thou art alive. 2 If thou procure that thy body be a dwelling place for god here on earth, he will honour and exalt it in heaven. 3 If thou wilt mount up to heaven triumphant as our Lady did, be humble here on earth and suffer not thy self to be overcome of thy passions. OF THE VIRGIN Maries entering into heaven. 27 EPiphanius doth plainly confess, Sermo. le Laudi. 〈◊〉. virg. that no tongue of men or Angels is sufficient to express the glory and triumph, that the virgin Marie had in heaven: and concluding he saith that next under god she is Superior to al. b Sermo. 〈◊〉. de as●up. virg. S. Bernard also writeth that none can think with what glory the Queen of the world did enter into heaven; with what affect of devotion the celestial legions did behold her: with what cheerful countenance & divine embracings she was received of jesus, and exalted above all other creatures. c Sermo. le assump. ●urg. Sophronius doth tell in particular how in the Assumption of the virgin, those celestial Citizens went to meet her with all solemnity: and so environed with heavenly brightness, she was conducted by them with music to the throne which was prepared for her: and how the feast of the Assumption, which we celebrate but once a year, is perpetual to all that heavenly jerusalem, and to those blessed spirits. d In evang. de sanc. deipa. Athanasius doth set down the praises which each jerarchie did sing to the virgin Marie. And e Lib. de excil virg. ca 8. Canis lib. 5. ca 4. Anselmus doth say moreover that God exalted the virgin Marie his mother above all the heavens, and placed her in a throne of glory, making her the Sovereign over all creatures. The like do say all those holy fathers that writ of the virgin, or of her Assumption. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how the virgin Marie entering into heaven, the celestial coorte went to meet her, by which she was received with universal joy as the mother of god and Queen of heaven. 2 Contemplate how ascending to the place prepared for her, before the creation of the world, above all the quiars of Angels, every jerarchie of those blessed spirits did sing their praise to the most sacred virgin. 3 Contemplate how the virgin being placed in her seat next to the throne of the most blessed Trinity, at the right hand of her son, all the court of heaven did incline themselves, and do reverence to their Queen. Documents. 1 If thou desire to be received in heaven with honour, as the virgin Marie was, receive Christ on earth with love and humility. 2 They shall be praised of the Angels in heaven, which have eschewed the praises of men upon earth. 3 The more that thou shalt a base thyself in this life for the love of god, the more thou shalt be exalted in heaven. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's protection in heaven of her devoutes: 28. THe contents of this last history is so manifest and clear, that we need not quote any other authors than our selves: forsomuch as we all do see, that in every kingdom, in every province, and in every city though it be never so little, there is to be found some image of our Lady that doth work miracles, & to which devout persons have particular recourse, to obtain graces and favours of God, by means of the virgin Marie. And this hath been an ordinary thing since the beginning of the primitive Church of Christ. Now who is he that will say, that this is not to be ascribed to the particular protection, which the virgin hath in heaven of her devoutes here on earth? who will say, that she is not favoured of that infinite main sea of all goodness? seeing that she doth obtain of him for us, so many great graces and favours, who is so beside himself, that he will not do honour and reverence to so diligent and loving an advocatrice. a Lib de excellen. virg. ca 8. S. Anselmus saith that the virgin hath been exalted to such greatness for us, to the end she might easily obtain whatsoever good we needed for our soul. And b S. Augustin teacheth that she doth help us more, Serm. than all the other Saints. ●●e As●●mptio. 〈◊〉 In Canonic. lib. 7. 〈◊〉 fine. Canis. lib. 〈◊〉. ca 8. & 17. So that c Rupertus calleth her the mountain of mountains, from whence cometh to us all succour, obtained of our supreme Lord and maker of all things. Points for Meditation. 1 Contemplate how the glory and greatness of the virgin Marie in heaven do not make her to be ungetful of her clients in earth, for whom she prayeth so much the more, how much her charity is greater, & she nearer to the fountain of all grace. 2 Contemplate how the virgin is so greatly beloved and favoured of god that she doth not only obtain what she demandeth for us, but god also taketh pleasure, in showing us favour by her means. 3 Consider likewise of this, how much it importeth to be under the protection of the virgin Marie, who is the Queen of heaven so puissant, and so charitable, we being so weak and so needful, and remaining in so dangerous a banishment as we do. Documents. 1 He that hath charity, as the virgin Marie had, getting up to dignity doth not forget those whom he left behind him. 2 The more virtuous that thou shalt be, the more God will favour thee: & thou shalt more easily, obtain the graces thou dost damaund. 3 Be thou a true devout of the virgin Marie, and she will deliver thee from the dangers of this troublesome life. FINIS. OF THE VIRGIN Mary's stature and manners, taken out of ancient and holy fathers. THe virgin Marie was of a mean stature, although some be of opinion as Nicephorus writeth that she was of a little more than a mean stature. ●icephor. 〈◊〉. 2. hist. 〈◊〉 23. ●●iphan. ●onstanti. ●esbyter ●●b. de vita ●ariae. ●edrenus 〈◊〉 compen ●io hist. Ansel●us apud ●anis. lib. 〈◊〉. ca 13. Her colour was somewhat more brown than white, and was much like the colour of wheat. Her hear was yellow, yet without art or humane industry. Her eyes were quick & lively and of a grave colour, but the apple of her eye was like to an olive colour. Her eye lids were decently black, and somewhat bowed: her nose was mean, her lips of coral colour, her face something long, her hands and fingers long. In conversation she was affable, and gracious in speech, yet grave & modest: her talk was little, and not without necessity: she did honour all most willingly: she was shamefast and demure, without laughing, disdain, or any other perturbation. The holy & famous martyr S. Ignatius, who lived at the same time the virgin Marie did, In epistle▪ ad joan. Evangelist. in a certain epistle of his, after he had called her a pattern of penance, and a mistress of christian religion doth say that from many parts of the world there came sundry to see her, as if she had been a celestial miracle, & a most sacred sight: to whom she seemed so marvelous, that every one of them was incredibly glad to have seen her, or spoken with her. Amongst those was that great Dionysius Areopagita, Apud Canis. lib 5. ca 1. inter medium. & finem in & ca 22. post princip. who being at the majesty of the virgin Marie, and woundering at the holiness of her manners, and beholding in her I know not what celestial and divine brightness, did say, that if Christ had not been revealed to him, he would easily have believed that there had been no other god than the virgin Marie. Homil. de hypapan. Domini. Hence it is that the holy doctor Saint Chrysostome doth call our Lady the great miracle of the world. CERTAIN AVNcient miracles wrought by the virgin Marie. WHat time Leo Isauricus sought to take away holy images out of the church of Christ, S. john Damascene did writ three books in defence of them: wherewith the adversaries (of images) being offended, they did accuse him as a breaker of the Prince's peace, saying that he had written letters of treason, whereupon his right hand was out of. But Damascene entering into his closet, and kneeling down before the image of our Lady, said in this manner. See here, o most holy mother, how for defending holy images, my hand hath been cut of: to thee do I humbly commend mie self: which when he had uttered with tears, he slept, and in sleep did see the blessed virgin restore him his hand, so that, waking he found his hand whole: there remaining only a sign of the cut. This miracle was most famous in all the East, and written by john patriarch of jerusalem. Theophilus' Archdeacon in Cilicia, being accused by some envious persons, was put out of his office, and offended at the matter did deny Christ and our Lady, and by a certain writing did give himself to the devil, whereunto to he was induced by a certain jew that was a magician. But afterwards repenting himself, he went into a church of our Lady, praying her with tears and fastings for many days and nights, that she would help him. At the length the virgin Marie made the writing to be restored to him by the devil, and so being reconciled to the Church, he entered into grace with god, and lived in such manner that he was a Saint, whose feast is celebrated the 4. day of february. This history is written by Metaphrastes and others. Marry surnamed Aegiptiaca of Egypt, a public harlot, going to see the church of the holy Cross in jerusalem, would often have entered, but she could not; whereat astonished and touched of god inwardly, she did enter into herself, and ashamed of her life, did turn herself to an image of the virgin Marie that stood near to the church door and said: O virgin and mother, seeing that god, whom thou hast brought forth, became man thereby to call sinners to penance, assist and secure me void of all help: and I do promise, if I enter into this church, to change my life. She entered & by the virgin Maries intercession was reconciled to god, and after this retiring herself into the desert, she did penance, & died a holy woman. This history was written by Paulus Diaconus & is to be read in the second Nicene council, actione 4. In the year 1094 a certain woman of Laudune was condemned to death for committing a murder secretely: and as she went to the place of execution where she was to be burned, she entered into a church of our Lady, and there inwardly contrite did confess her sin public, and afterwards weeping she turned herself to an image of the blessed virgin, requestingher help for her soul, & commending herself to her with all her heart, departing that she was from the church and come to the place of punishment, she was twice cast into the midst of a great fire, which neither did burn, nor touch her: and that which made the miracle more manifest was, that neither her garments were as much as touched of the fire, whereat all the people astonished, did return with the woman to the Church, & give thanks to the virgin Marie, by whose prayers they acknowledge this miracle to have been wrought. Thus writeth Sigibert in his chronicle. Nestorius' was strooken of God with divers tribulations, Canis. de. Maria Depara lib. 3. ca 18. & lib. 5. ca for his blasphemies used against the virgin Marie, but because he amended not himself, his tongue was cruelly eaten, 〈◊〉 & ●icephor. 〈◊〉 14. ●st. eccl. 〈◊〉. 36. with worms, and he did die most miserably, whose body being buried, the earth did open and swallow it up. Moscus Euiratus also doth write, that when the virgin Marie did appear to the Abbot Cyrriacus in sleep, richly adorned, and having in her company. S. john Baptist, and S. john Evangelist, he did pray her that she would vouchsafe to enter into his chamber: but she answered him in this manner, How wilt thou that I enter into thy chamber, where thou hast mine enemy? And with this she departed. The Abbot when he was awaked was very anxious for that he knew not who this enemy of the virgin was. But reading a certain book which Isichius priest of jerusalem had lent him, he found that in the end thereof with it were bound two books of Nestorius, & so he strait ways understood who was the enemy of the virgin, and forthwith burning these two books, the Abbot was much comforted. Of this every one may gather, that dishonest books also be enemies to the virgin Marie, and so it is no marvel, if she do not enter into the chamber of the soul of these that keep such books. Thus we read in the book entitled Pratum spirituale A spiritual meadow. Chap. 46. Gregorius Turonensis in his book de gloria martyrum doth recount, that a certain jews son went to a church of the blessed virgin, & there did communicate with other scholars, & returning home joyful that he had so done he told his father of it, who became so enraged at the matter, that being a glass maker he took the child and threw him into the burning furnace, heaping more wood, thereby the more toe inflame the furnace. The child's mother came running to the place, and when she could not approach near to the furnace, for the exceeding great flame that it sent forth, she cried out, in so much that many people did run to the house where she was, who removing the fire from the furnace, did find the child lying as it were in a most delicate bead, and ask him how the fire had not consumed his body, he answered that the woman, at whose Altar he had communicated in the morning, did stand by him, and defend him from the fire with her mantle. This history did Menna the Patriarch (as Glycas writeth) tell to justine the second Emperor of that name, part. 4. Annalium. as one who had been present at the fact. When Rome was grievously vexed with the plague, S. Gregory the great being at that time Pope, did ordain a solemn procession to be made upon Easter day, bearing through all the City the image of our Lady (which is said to be that of S. Marry mayor yet extant in Rome) whereupon the plague did cease very miraculously, at the which the people greatly rejoicing, behold an Angel that did sing in the air, Regina coeli laetare Alleluya etc. Queen of heaven rejoice Alleluya: for that he whom thou deservedst to bear Alleluia, is risen as he said Alleluya. And the holy Pope answered, Pray god for us Alleluia. Sigonius amongst others doth recount this in his first book de regno Italiae. In the book entitled Pratum spirituale chap. 45. we read of a certain monk, who molested with a long temptation, said to the devil, when wilt thou let me be quiet. And the devil appearing to him spoke in this manner. Swear to me, that thou wilt not utter to any one that which I shall tell thee, and I will not molest thee any more. The monk did swear, and the devil then said, worship no more this image of our Lady, and I will let thee alone. The monk took time to deliberate of the matter, & in the mean season discovered all to his Abbot, who did reprehend him for giving his oath to the devil, and afterwards exhorted him to worship the image of the virgin Marie, telling him that he had obtained the victory in so great temptation by the help of the virgin, and that leaving to worship her, he should easily be overcome of the devil. These & other miracles wrought by God through the intercession of the virgin Marie are written largely by Petrus Canisius in his first book of the virgin Marie chap. 19 and 20. An instruction how to meditate well. Take some time assured & determinate for meditation, which thou must not change without just cause, for that the devil, when at the first he cannot make thee leave prayer; doth seek to make thee differ it until some incommodious time, that so thou may make it with many defects, & he more easily persuade thee afterwards to leave it altogether. The time most fit is the morning before other affairs, & it is convenient that we give the best time to this holy exercise, so grateful to god and profitable to our soul. Let the place be retired, where no other business nor talk may be heard, which doth cause distraction, and if thou have no such place at home thou must not therefore leave to meditate, but do of thy part what thou canst, and afterwards trust in God, who of his goodness will supply with his holy grace, to make thee be recollected. The situation of the body must be modest and devout, as kneeling or standing: walking seemeth not a fit act for meditation, unless it were little and softly. And albeit a man sitting may meditate without sin, yet he ought to choose that manner, which doth most further him to attention & devotion so that it be without violence, and without pain, if sometimes thou do meditate sitting, it is good (if thy health can bear it) to stand bareheaded, in sign that thou dost not think of other affairs, nor study or speculate philosophical matters, but pray and deal with god thy creator. That which a man must do before Meditation. The night before meditation thou must foresee the points & mystery whereof thou must meditate in the morning, and when thou dost wake; or rise out of thy bed, think upon, the meditation thou art to make recollected and attentive: and if in every affair of ours which we handle with men, we think well of it before we do it, how much more ought we to do so in this thing which is spiritual, and whereof we must deal with god. When thou wilt go to the place of meditation, imagine thy self to be there looked for of Christ our Lord, to give thee grateful audience; and going pray thine Angel keeper, or some one of those Saint's toe whom thou art most devout, that he will accompany thee, and bring thee in to our Lord. And when thou art come to the place thou must do him most humble and devout reverence. As soon as thou hast kneeled down lift up thy mind to god, demanding help to make thy meditation to the glory of his divine majesty, & fruit of thy soul, following in this the holy church, which in the beginning of divine service doth say, Deus in adiutorium meum intend. Domine ad adiwandum me festina, that is. O god be attentive to my aid. O Lord make speed to help me. It doth also help in the beginning, to crave pardon of god for our imperfections and sins, which are wont to offend his divine eyes: but thou with repenting thy self, and as king forgiveness, shalt make him propitious and well affected towards thee. That which a man must do in time of Meditation itself. TO the end thou be more attentive to thy meditation, think thyself to be present at the mystery whereof thou dost meditate, that thou do as it were see, and hear the persons contained therein, discoursing with thy understanding, not only about their words and deeds, but also about that which such persons might religiously think of; for this will give thee more ample matter of meditation, and make thee much more attentive. when in any one point thou feelest some effect of devotion, or any other spiritual motion, seek not to pass over speedily to another point, for it is better for thee that thou arrest thyself somewhat longer in the former. In meditating, endeavour always to draw to the affection of thy will, that which the understanding hath found out by discoursing: either by rejecting the same, if it be aught belonging to sin, or by embracing it with great affection, if it be any thing pertaining to virtue or devotion, because this is the principal fruit of meditation. That which a man must do, when he hath ended Meditation. IN the end of meditation thou shalt make a colloquy or speech, which is nothing else but a familiar and affectuous talk with God, now praising his greatness: now thanking him for his benefits: now ask him pardon for our sins, or perseverance in doing good: now offering him our life and works, with a steadfast purpose neither to do nor think any thing, that may displease his divine majesty. Also when meditation is ended, it is profitable to make some little reflection upon the same, that so thou mayst see how it hath succeeded with thee, and if thou find any fault or impediment, thou must avoid it for the time to come. An advise how to overcome some difficulties, that fall out in Meditation. THat which chiefly ought to move thee to meditation, must be a pure and sincere desire, to please God in this holy exercise, and to reform thy life and manners to the will of thy maker: for this will help thee very much to surmount some difficulties, that have made many forsake mental prayer. The first difficulty is to find thy self without gust of devotion, and so dry, that meditation will not seem only a cumbersome thing to thee, but also time lost. To overcome this difficulty, thou must note, that aridity or dryness may come sometimes of thine own fault, as when thou hast no care to prepare thy self to meditation, by foreseeing that which thou art to meditate, according to that which before hath been said: whereof it cometh that thou dost it with negligence and drily, for that our Lord in punishment of thy reachlesnes, doth worthily deprive thee of the consolation and taste of meditation. The remedy to be rid of this punishment, is to take away the cause, which is thy fault. Sometime this aridity cometh without thy fault, and thou must not for this leave thy meditation, for as time of consolation doth please thee, when our Lord, like the sun of the spring-time, coming near to thee doth make thee have gust in meditation: so thou must not be displeased nor leave to meditate, when the self same Saviour, as the sun of winter doth go from thee: that which he also doth for thy good, that then thou mayst cast roots of humility, knowing that when he goeth from thee, thou remainest dry and arid. It may be also that he suffereth thee to be dry in prayer, to see if thou be a soldier for love, or for payment, which thou dost expect of him, as if to pray, thou wouldst he should pay thee with gust of devotion. Or else god doth this, to make thee know that the taste and comfort of meditation is his gift, & he giveth it to whom, & when he will, that by this means thou dispose thyself to ask it humbly of him. Be it howsoever, if thou pray thereby to please god, as thou oughtest to do; thou mayst say, I did not begin my meditation to feel gust, but for the love of my god, and for his love will I follow it on. The second difficulty is to be molested in time of meditation, with divers and importunate thoughts, whether they come by work of the devil, to hinder the fruit of meditation, or else for that our nature being disordered by sin; our imagination goeth wandering against our will, entangling itself with divers & impertinent thoughts. In this case thou must be diligent to cast them of but yet without anxiety, understanding that as long as they come without thy consent, it is no sin to thee: and the labour in casting them away to meditate well, is no less grateful to god, then to pray attentively with taste, yea thou shalt merit more, then if thou didst feel great comfort in prayer. It availeth also much in such travails to make some speeches, and demand help of god, humbly confessing that of thy self thou canst not help thee; or reprehending thy self, that thou canst not stand one hour with thy maker, without some earthly cogitation, for scrupuls and temptations which do happen in prayer, a good remedy is not to esteem them, but to be recollected in meditation. Likewise when any business of small importance doth represent itself to be done●● 〈◊〉 of prayer, it is not good to break of meditation and do it, or for memories sake to note it: because meditation being a work so perfect and so acceptable to god, it must not for every trifling thing be broken, or left of. The third difficulty is, that many seeing no fruit to come of this exercise do leave it as a thing unprofitable: but this is a manifest tentation, & cometh of not knowing wherein the true fruit of meditation doth consist, for if thou do pray because thou lovest god, thou must esteem it to be a great benefit for thee, that thou dost please him, and undoubtedly thou dost please him, every time that thou dost in meditation what thou art able. True it is that toe fly sin, and govern well our life, as we see in those that with humility do frequent meditation, is the proper fruit thereof, and riseth of that light, which men do receive of god in meditation. The fourth difficulty groweth of that we see, we do not obtain of god what we demand in prayer. But this must not remove thee from meditation, which thou must chiefly make to praise, thank, and bless god; and must think it a singular benefit to frequent meditation, because it is a holy execise and grateful to god, whom if thou procure to satisfy in this, doubt not but he will grant thee more than that, which thou dost demand, if yet it be for the good of thy soul. The fift difficulty is, that sometimes meditation will seem tedious to thee. There is no doubt but that the devil will represent meditation unto thee as a very hard thing, so to make thee differ it, and afterwards to forsake it wholly. But if thou have a true desire to do a thing acceptable to thy Creator, either meditation will not seem a laboursome thing to thee, or thou wilt hold all labour well employed for his love, who did take so great labour and pain for thy sake. FINIS.