1. Disciples of the
New Testament and partakers of the mysteries of Christ, as yet by
calling only, but ere long by grace also, make you a new heart and a
new spirit Ezek. xviii. 31., that there may be
gladness among the inhabitants of heaven: for if over one
sinner that repenteth there is joy, according to the
Gospel Luke xv. 7., how much more shall the salvation of so many
souls move the inhabitants of heaven to gladness. As ye have
entered upon a good and most glorious path, run with reverence the race
of godliness. For the Only-begotten Son of God is present here
most ready to redeem you, saying, Come unto Me all that labour and
are heavy laden, and I will give you rest Matt. xi. 28.. Ye that are clothed with the rough
garment Compare xv. 25. of your offences, who are holden with the
cords of your own sins, hear the voice of the Prophet saying,
Wash you, make you clean, put away your iniquities from before Mine
eyes Is. i. 16.: that the choir
of Angels may chant over you, Blessed are they whose iniquities are
forgiven, and whose sins are covered Ps. xxxii. 1. See Procat. 15.. Ye who have just lighted the torches
of faith Procat. 1, note 6., guard them carefully
in your hands unquenched; that He, who erewhile on this all-holy
Golgotha opened Paradise to the robber on account of his faith, may
grant to you to sing the bridal song.