Thou oughtest not to be tedious and troublesome to others, but to keep the common way, according to the appointment of superiors; and rather suit thyself to the profit of others, than to thine own devotion or affection.
Chap. XI.
That the body of Christ and the holy scripture
are most necessary to a faithful soul.
The Voice of the Disciple.
1. O Sweetest Lord Jesus, how great sweetness hath a devout soul that feasteth with thee in thy banquet; where there is no other meat set before her to be eaten but thyself her only beloved, and most to be desired above all the desires of her heart!
And to me indeed it would be delightful to pour out tears in thy presence, with the whole affection of my heart, and like the devout Magdalen to wash thy feet with my tears.
But where is this devotion? Where is this so plentiful shedding of holy tears?
Surely in the sight of thee, and of thy holy angels, my whole heart ought to be inflamed, and to weep for joy.
For I have thee in the sacrament truly present, though hidden under another form.
2. For to behold thee in thine own divine brightness, is what my eyes would not be able to endure, neither could the whole world subsist in the splendour of the glory of thy Majesty.