Vol. 2

590 ST. LUKE.himself to each in such a manner as is most agreeableto their state and condition." 29. And he, ansvverin|T, said to his father, Lo,these many years do I serve thee; neither transgressedI at any time thy commandment; and yet thou nevergavest me a kid, that I might make merry with myfriends :'*Those who have laboured much and for a longtime in the church, ought carefully to secure themselvesagainst one temptation, namely, the imaginingthat God is in their debt. There is danger in employingour thoughts too much upon the good wedo, in reckoning up the years of our service, in desiringto be rewarded in this life, and to enjoy theconveniencies and pleasures of it.Let us leave thismatter to God, and not pretend to account with him." 30. But as soon as this thy son was come, whichhath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killedfor him the fatted calf."Condescension towards the weak is subject to becensured and blamed. The readiness with whichGod goes to meet them, is above the thoughts andimaginations of men. We ought to have more compassiontowards sinners, than indignation at theirsins, and to speak of them neither with severity norwith contempt. We must avoid making comparisonsof this nature : it is the grace of God which distinguishesus ; it is humility which preserves his gifts." 31. And he said unto him, Son, thou art everwith me, and all that I have is thine."The righteous, being united to God, have a rightto the heavenly inheritance by his grace. He whothoroughly comprehends how great the favour of the