Quesnel: Moral Reflections on the Gospels Vol 1

CHAPTER V.
is a general precept, from which we are not excused,
but by our inabiHty to perform it. Men are more
or less obliged to it, as they are more or less able;
as the want is more or less pressing; as they are
more or less burthened with poor ; or by their office
as pastors; or by the necessities of their relations;
or by the opportunities and demands of providence;
or by the duty of restitution and satisfaction. In
this matter we must consult prudence, and more
charity. He who makes use of the beggar's hand
to ask our charity, is the same of whom we ourselves
beg every day out bread : and dare we refuse Him !
Let us show, at least, mildness and compassion, when
we can do no more. To give and to lend are two
duties of charity, which Christ joins together, and
which he sets upon an equal footing. The loan is
sometimes more beneficial than the absolute gift, be-
cause it flatters less the vanity and natural generosity
of him who lends ; it spares more the shame of him
who is in real want, and gives less encouragement
to the idleness of him who may not be very honest.
Sect. VI I. The Love of Enemies. Perfection,
" 43. ^ Ye have heard that it hath been said,
Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy
: 44. But I say unto you^ Love your enemies,
bless them that curse you, do good to them that
hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use
you, and persecute you;"
We must love our enemies in heart, in word, and
in deed ; desiring their welfare, praying for them,
speaking well of them, and assisting them as occa-
sion requires. The enemies whom Christ here en-
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