the Cross, whereby to crucify thee to this world. For the “breadth” is the transverse beam
in the cross where the hands are fastened, to signify good works. The “length” is in that part
of the wood which reaches from this transverse beam to the ground. For there the body is
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crucified and in a manner stands, and this standing signifies perseverance. Now “the height”
is in that part, which from the same transverse beam projects upward to the head, and hereby
is signified the expectation of things above. And where is the “depth” but in that part which
is fixed in the ground? For so is the dispensation of grace, hidden and in secret. It is not
seen itself, but from thence is projected all that is seen. After this, when thou shalt have
comprehended all these things, not in the mere understanding but in action also (“for a
good understanding have all they that do hereafter),”1932 then if thou canst, stretch out
thyself to attain to the knowledge of the “love of Christ which passeth knowledge.” When
thou hast attained to it, thou “wilt be filled with all the fulness of God.” Then will be fulfilled
the “face to face.” Now thou wilt be filled with all the fulness of God, not as if God should
be full of thee, but so that thou shalt be full of God. Seek there, if thou canst, for any bodily
face. Away with such trifles from the eye of the mind. Let the child cast away his playthings,
and learn to handle more serious matters. And in many things we are but children; and
when we were more so than we are, we were borne with by our betters. “Follow peace with
all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see God.”1933 For by this is the heart
purified; for that in it is that faith “which worketh by love.” Hence, “Blessed are the pure in
heart, for they shall see God.”
1932 Ps. cxi. 10.
1933 Heb. xii. 14.
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On the words of the Gospel, Matt. Chap. v. 3 and 8, 'Blessed are the poor…