10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.



Ver. 10. As we have therefore opportunity] Catch at it, as the echo catcheth the voice. Joseph took the nick of time to gain Egypt to the king, by feeding the hungry; so may we to get heaven. I read of a Roman emperor who when he heard of a neighbour death, he asked, And what did I for him before he died? Let us ask ourselves the same and the like questions.



Who are of the household] Of the family of faith, God’s household servants. That was a desperate resolve of Aigoland, king of Arragon, who coming to the French court to be baptized, and asking who those lazars {a} and poor people were that waited for alms from the Emperor Charlemagne’s table? When one answered him that they were the messengers and servants of God; I will never serve that God, said he, that can keep his servants no better. (Turpine.)



{a} A poor and diseased person, usually one afflicted with a loathsome disease; esp. a leper. ŒD