Quesnel: Moral Reflections on the Gospels Vol 1

CHAPTER III,
Repentance is the true preparation for the kingdom
of heaven. Let this therefore keep us every
moment prepared for it, because this kingdom is
every moment approaching nearer to us. If this
kingdom is a kingdom of love, the repentance which
prepares us for it, must hkewise be a repentance of
love. It is from thee, O Lord, that we hope to re-
ceive both this love, and this repentance, both the
principle and the works.
" 3. For this is he that was spoken of by the
prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in
the wilderness. Prepare ye the way of the Lord,
make his paths straight."
Repentance must begin by taking away the stops
and hindrances of salvation, that we may proceed
directly towards God. It is difficult to hear this
voice, except in the wilderness, that is, in retirement,
and out of the noise and hurry of worldly affairs ; or
at least, in a recollected, intent, and sedate mind.
The sinner is gone too far from God, to be called
back any otherwise than by a great cry, that is to
say, a great grace. Repentance is not the business
of a moment, because it is a preparation for being
reconciled with God ; nor does this preparation con-
sist only in a few thoughts or words, because the
way of God lies in the will—nor is this way easy
to be prepared, since by it the heart must pass from
darkness to light, and from death to life—nor is all
this the work of man, because the preparations of the
heart in man are from the Lord, and he only can
order and direct his steps, and make him choose and
delight in his way.
" 4. And the same John had his raiment of
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