give much attention to all the details, but now I have seen them more
distinctly. No words can describe how painful and exhausting is such a
sight as that of beholding the hidden recesses of hearts, the love and
constancy of our Saviour, and to know at the same time all that is
going to befall him. How would it be possible to observe all that is
merely external! The heart is overflowing with admiration, gratitude,
and love--the blindness of men seems perfectly incomprehensible--and the soul
is overwhelmed with sorrow at the thought of the ingratitude of the
whole world, and of her own sins!

The eating of the Paschal Lamb was performed by Jesus rapidly, and
in entire conformity with all the legal ordinances. The Pharisees were
in the habit of adding some minute and superstitious ceremonies.


THE PASSION.



"If thou knowest not how to meditate on high and heavenly things,
rest on the Passion of Christ, and willingly dwell in his sacred
wounds. For, if thou fly devoutly to the wounds and precious stigmas of
Jesus, thou shalt feel great comfort in tribulation." --Imitation of Christ,
book 2, chapter 1.



INTRODUCTION.