dwelt upon many interesting particulars which occurred in the course of this narration; observing, how strongly it recommends the love of parents to their children, and the duty of prayer in the day` of distress-it remains to take a general view of the whole. From the example of this woman let us learn to make a proper use of those afflictions which the Almighty shall be pleased to bring upon us, not repining under our misfortunes, not murmuring at the dispensations of Providence; but receiving them as tokens of his love, and the means of our everlasting welfare. "God never chastises but in love;" and if not a sparrow falls to the ground without his knowledge and permission, how can we ever doubt that the concerns of our life are all guided and directed by him? we are not to depend on worldly helps to bear us up under our sufferings; they afford no substantial comfort, nothing upon which reason and reflection can

solidly support themselves. Fly not therefore to those delusive pleasures, which invite only to destroy; but to that merciful Redeemer, whose arms are ever open to receive the returning prodigal; and let us remember, so to apply, that we may have reason to hope for success: 1st. with humility, confessing our unworthiness, and trusting in his mercy alone, to look down with compassion upon our calamities. 2dly. with faith and confidence, acknowledging him to be the Lord, the Great God of heaven and earth, and yet claiming a kind of interest in him as the Son of David, as one who has partaken of our nature, and therefore cannot be unacquainted with our feelings. Lastly, with perseverance; not discouraged if our petition is at first rejected, but pressing forward with resolution, continuing stedfast in prayer to God;-though he is silent; though he seems to despise and utterly forsake us, still let us cry unto him. The

importunate widow, by perseverance alone obtained redress, even from an unjust judge; much more may we expect relief from him whose property is ever to have mercy. Encouraged then by the example of this woman of Canaan, let us approach the God and Saviour of mankind, as she approached-in patience, in humility, in confidence, expecting the good pleasure of our Lord, when he shall at length answer our petition, and reward our faith with everlasting life. Which God, &c.

SERMON XXVI.

PARABLE OF THE MARRIAGE FEAST,

APPLIED TO THE SACRAMENT OF THE LORD'S supper.

ST. MATTHEW, CHAP. Xxii. VER. 4.

LATTER PART.

Behold I have prepared my dinner-my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready-come unto the Marriage.

THIS is represented by our Saviour as the second invitation of a certain king, to some who had already refused to accept of his offer; the occasion of it was, to celebrate the wedding of his son. I shall first examine the general instruction intended to be conveyed in this parable;