groanings of thy mother. Remember that thou hadst not been born but through them, and make a return to them as they have done for thee' (Ecclus. vii. 28-3d). Example of Jesus, who, when dying on the cross, still provided for His Mother.
5. How should children obey their parents?
1. They should do what their parents command, and not do what they forbid, provided they order nothing bad or unjust; and 2. They should willingly receive, and readily follow, their advice and admonitions.
'Children, obey your parents in all things; for this is well pleasing to the Lord' (Col. iii. 20). Example of Jesus, who, though 'God blessed for ever,' yet was subject to Mary and Joseph.
6. What have children to expect who faithfully observe the Fourth Commandment?
In this life, they may be sure of God's protection and blessing, and in the other, of eternal happiness.
'Honor thy father and thy mother, which is the first commandment with a promise; that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest be long-lived upon earth' (Eph. vi. 2, 3). 'Honor thy father, that a blessing may come upon thee from him, and his blessing may remain in the latter end. The father's blessing establisheth the houses of the children, but the mother's curse rooteth up the foundation' (Ecelus. iii. 9-11). — Examples: Sem, Isaac, Ruth, Samuel, young Tobias.
7. When do children sin against the reverence they owe to their parents?
They sin against the reverence they owe to their parents, 1. When in their heart they despise or disregard them; 2. When they speak ill of them; 3. When they are ashamed of them; and 4. When they treat them harshly and insolently.
'The eye that mocketh at his father, and that despiseth the labor of his mother in bearing him, let the ravens of the brooks pick it out, and the young eagles eat it' (Prov. xxx. 17).
8. When do children sin against the love they owe to their parents?
They sin against the love they owe to their parents, 1. When they wish or do them evil; 2. When, by their
