A plea for alms delivered in a sermon at the spital, before a solemn…A plea for almes delivered in a sermon at the spital, before a solemn…

'Twas the sin of the Pharisees while they were distributing Alms, ^*they did buccina canere, blow the Trumpet, Mat. 6. 2. They did not give their Alms, but sell them for applause. A proud man casts his bread upon the waters, as the Fisherman casts his angle upon the waters; he angles for vain glory. I have read of one Cosmus Medici, a Rich Citizen of Florence, ⟨p. 64⟩that he confessed to a near friend of his, he built so many magnificent Structures, and spent so mu•h on Scholars and Libraries, not for any love to Learning, but to raise up to himself, the Trophies of Fame and Renown.² An humble soul denies himself, yea, even annihilates himself; he thinks how little it is he can do for God,^* and if he could do more, it were but a due debt, therefore looks upon all his works as if he had done nothing. ^*The Saints are brought in at the last day, •as disowning their works of Charity, Matthew 25. 37. Lord when saw we thee an hungered and fed thee, or thirsty and gave thee drink. A good Christian doth not only empty his hand of Alms, but empties his heart of pride; while he raiseth the poor out of the dust, he ⟨p. 65⟩qaies himself in the dust. ^*Works of mercy must be like the Cassia, which is a sweet spice, but grows low.

'Twas the sinne of the Pharisees while they were distributing Almes, ^*