Quesnel: Moral Reflections on the Gospels Vol 1

270 ST. MATTHEW.
tion is no less a vice of ecclesiastical than of secular
persons. If the apostles, who had forsaken all, and
who had so long had the instructions and example
of Christ before their eyes, were, notwithstanding,
subject thereto, who ought not to be afraid ? This
passion is sometimes more violent, and always more
scandalous and offensive, in the kingdom of humility,
than in the world, which is the kingdom of pride.
" 2. And Jesus called a little child unto him, and
set him in the midst of them,"
It is a duty of the pastoral charity to adapt ourselves
to the capacity of the weak, when we instruct them.
Jesus Christ does not here propose himself, but a
little child, for a pattern of humility. It is the busi-
ness of our faith to raise our minds to that divine
child, who is free from the defects of the children of
Adam, and who has all the perfections of the only
Son of God.
" 3. And said, Verily I say unto you. Except ye
be converted, and become as little children, ye shall
not enter into the kingdom of heaven."
He who still continues under his disorderly habits,
and who, instead of abasing and humbling himself,
thinks of nothing but becoming greater than he is
this person certainly is not in the way of salvation.
Either Christ is not truth itself, or, without a true
conversion and humility, there is not the least hope
of any place in heaven. There are but too many
who are children in inconstancy, affection to sensible
things, and love of toys; but how few are such in
innocency, simplicity, ignorance of evil, docility, &c.
** 4. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself
as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom
of heaven."