Quesnel: Moral Reflections on the Gospels Vol 1

424 ST. MATTHEW.
so little concerned at his misfortunes, whilst he is so
sensibly affected with theirs, beyond all imagination
We are but too ready to lose our sleep, when it is
to watch with the world, and to share in the pleasures
and diversions thereof during the night : but what
pain, what sluggishness seizes us, when we should
watch one hour with Christ, either by way of morti-
fication, or out of charity towards a sick person, or
to praise God in the great solemnities, or to adore
Jesus Christ in his sufferings, to take part in his
afflictions by prayer, and to beg the spirit and grace
to do it !
"41. Watch and pray, that ye enter not into
temptation : the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh
is weak."
A good pastor, a true father, after the example
of Christ, takes care of the salvation of his flock to
the last. He who exhorts his flock to watchfulness
and prayer, is sure to make an impression upon them,
if they see him watch and pray himself. In perilous
conjunctures men sometimes fall asleep, and rely on
some sudden gust of courage and sensible fervour,
wherewith they flatter themselves; and are often too
late convinced, that they have more presumption than
strength. Christian vigilance and humble prayer are
the source of all our strength. The former renders
the vigilance of the devil ineffectual : the latter pro-
cures the vigilance and protection of God.
*'42. He went away again the second time, and
prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass
away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done."
The example of Jesus Christ teaches us to resign
ourselves to the will of God, and to redouble our