Copyright©MonergismBooks

TheDevotionalWorksofDavidHarsha

TableofContents

IMMANUEL'SLAND

Preface

1.ThePlace

2.TheBlessedness

3.TheJoy

4.TheGlory

5.TheRest

6.TheEmployment

7.TheSociety

8.ThePerpetuityofBliss

9.HeavenlyMeditation

WANDERINGSOFAPILGRIM

Preface

ThisWorldaWilderness,

TheChristianisaPilgrimHere

CommencementoftheChristian'sJourney-DifficultiesintheWay

Encouragements-ProvisionbytheWay

TheChristianPilgrimintheValleyofBaca

TheChristianonPisgah'sMount

The Posture of the Christian Pilgrim in Coming up from theWildernessofthisWorld

PassageovertheJordanofDeath

THOUGHTSONTHELOVEOFCHRIST

1.PrefaceandIntroductoryEssay

2.TheLoveofChristinComingintotheWorldtoSaveSinners

3.TheLoveofChrist,asManifestedinHisSufferingsandDeath

4.TheLoveofChristContemplated

5.TheLoveofChristintheBestowmentofGrace

6.TheLoveofChristinAfflictions

7. The Love of Christ, asManifested toHis People in theHour ofDeath

8.TheLoveofChristintheHourofDeath(continued);theCloudofWitnesses

9.TheHappyHomeinView

10.TheHappyHomeContemplated–BeingwithChristinGlory

11.TheHappyHomeContemplated–theBlessednessoftheSaints

CHRISTANDHIMCRUCIFIED

Preface

1.TheExcellencyoftheSubject

2.ThePersonofChrist

3.TheGloryofChrist

4.ChristCrucified

5.ChristCrucified(continued)

6.RedemptionbyChrist

7.TheNewSonginGlory

8.ChristCrucified,theSumandSubstanceoftheGospel

9.ChristCrucified,theonlyHopeoftheSinner

10.TheCrossofChrist,theGloryoftheChristian

THESTAROFBETHLEHEM,AGUIDETOTHESAVIOR

Preface

THeSavior,theBrightandMorningStar

TheSaviorinHisDivineNature

TheSaviorinHisIncarnation

TheSaviorinHisPersonalMinistryonEarth

TheSaviorinGethsamane

TheSaviorinHisCrucifixion

TheSaviorinHisDeath

TheSaviorinHisResurrection

TheSaviorinHisAscension

TheSaviorinHisIntercession

TheSaviorinHisSecondComing

TheSavior'sinvitation

Copyright

Immanuel'sLand

PREFACE

The design of this essay is to afford a glimpse of Immanuel's land; toexhibitsomeofthepowerfulattractionsofthatworldofglory.TothosewhoareaskingthewaytoZion,withtheirfacestowardthere,theauthorknows that his present theme will be at all times refreshing. FuturefelicityinHeavenisthemostcheeringsubjectthatcanbepresentedforthe contemplation of the Christian in this valley of tears.What can bemore delightful than for the weary pilgrim who is fast hastening tomansionsintheskies,tomeditateonthegloriesofhisfuturehome?

There is much in this subject to animate us in the thorny pathway toimmortality. It affords hope in life's darkest hour; it points with itsgloriouslighttotherealmsofbliss,wherenotearisevershedandwherenosorroweverenters.ThereismuchinImmanuel's landtoengageourhearts in holy meditation while we sojourn as strangers and pilgrimshere. The bright mansions of our Father's house- the many crowns ofglory laid up for us there- the joyous rest that remains for our wearysouls- the sweet employment of the redeemed in glory- the endearedsocietyintheheavenlyhome;allarepresentedtoattractustoheaven-toinduceustosetouraffectionsonthingsabove.

Then,letusfixourheartsmoresteadfastlyuponheavenlyjoys-uponthegloriesofImmanuel'sland.Inhandlingthisdelightfulsubject,theWordofGodhasbeenourguide.Tothisblessedvolumeweareindebtedforalltherevelationsthathavebeenmadeofthegloryofthecelestialworld.IntheBibleweobtainaglimpseofthegloriousland.MayHewhoseinfinitelovefittedupthosebrightabodesofbliss,blessourpresentefforttothesoulsofmen,inleadingthemtolayuptheirtreasuresinHeaven,andtochoosethatbetterpartwhichshallneverbetakenawayfromthem.

Heavenlymeditation is a delightfulwork, inwhichour souls shouldbe

dailyengaged,untilweentertheportalsofglory,andbeginourunendingsongintheparadiseofGod.O!maythatsweethoursooncome.

"O!soonmayHeavenunclosetome!O!mayIsoonthatglorysee!Andmyfaint,wearyspirit,standWithinthathappy,happyland!"

1.THEPLACE

"Igotoprepareaplaceforyou."John14:2

Thereisaworldofrichdelight,Wherewarmaffectionsglow;Wherereignstheeverlastinglight,Wherecrystalwatersflow.TherehappysaintssecurelydwellFromSatan'sdeadlypower;Theirblissnomortaltonguecantell,Unfoldingeveryhour.TheydwellwithJesus,andbeholdThebeautiesofhisface;Secureinthecelestialfold,Andcrownedbysovereigngrace.Fromearthandallitsemptyjoys,BlestJesus,setmefree;Howvaintheworldling'sgildedtoys,Comparedwithheavenandthee!Youaremyhope,myway,mybliss,Myglory,andmycrown;DescendOblessedPrinceofPeace,Andmakemyheartyourthrone."

How full of consolation are the Holy Scriptures! They animate the

Christianinhispilgrimageonearth;theypointoutthewayofsalvationthroughacrucifiedJesus; they leadtheransomedsinnertothegatesofthecelestialcity,andseathimamidtheuntoldandinconceivablegloriesofParadise!TheScripturesurgeustosetouraffectionsonthegloriesoftheChristian'seternalhome.To those inwhoseheartsChrist is formedthe hope of glory, how beautiful, how tender, how soul-reviving is thelanguageof inspiration! It iswritten, "If you thenare risenwithChrist,seekthosethingswhichareabove,whereChristsitsontherighthandofGod.Setyouraffectiononthingsabove,notonthingsontheearth."

In compliance with the sacred command we shall endeavor, throughdivineassistance,toraiseourthoughtstothosescenesofblisswhichtheredeemedperpetuallyenjoybeforethethroneofGodandtheLamb.Weshallcontemplate the place itself,where all the precious flock ofChristare to dwell through an endless day. In connection with this we shallnoticeafewofthepowerfulattractionsofthatblessedabode.

Heaven is a place as well as a state. Among the last words of ourRedeemer before He left this valley of tears, we find this cheeringdeclarationandpromise,"Igotoprepareaplaceforyou.AndifIgoandprepareaplaceforyou,Iwillcomeagain,andreceiveyouuntomyself;thatwhere I am, there youmaybe also."Preciouswords froma lovingFriend!But followHim to the landofpromise.Christhasnowgone topreparethatplaceforus!OwhataplacewillJesusprepareforhisdearchildren!Whataplacewill infinite lovemake!Howattractivewill itbe!Wellmaywe confess our utter inability to portray the regions of glory,and exclaim with an enraptured Apostle, "Eye has not seen, nor earheard,neitherhaveenteredintotheheartofman,thethingswhichGodhaspreparedforthosewholoveHim."

Language fails to describe the beauties of Immanuel's land, and thehumanmindtoconceiveitsblessedness."Allthegloriesofkingdoms,allthebeautiesofgardens,all thesplendorofpalaces,yesall the richesofcreation, form but a faint sketch of the sublime original." We cannotknowwhat heaven really is until we enter into 'the holy place' and sitdownundertheshadowofthetreeoflifeinthemidstoftheParadiseofGod.Then shallwe see in the light of glory that it is a happy region; a

happyhomeindeed.

Heaven is a holy placewhere theKing eternal, immortal, invisible, theonlywiseGod,unveilsHisgloriousperfectionsinfulleffulgence.Inthatblessed place, the Lamb of God, the Savior of sinners, dwells in Hisglorifiedhumanity.TheretriumphantsaintsaregatheredhometoChrist.There they aremade pillars in the temple ofGod and go out nomore.There the host of heaven dwell in the blissful presence of the King ofglory.

Thisblessedplaceshouldattractus.Weshouldlookbeyondthispresentfleetingworld.Weshouldendeavortoraiseoureyes toCanaan'shappyshores, and obtain a glimpse of those everlasting hills fromwhere ourhelpcomesfrom.LettheChristianascendthemountofmeditation,andbythehelpofGod'sWord,surveythosefairregionswhichliebeyondtheJordanofdeath.

"My,soul,onPisgah'smountascend,whereMosesonceadmiringstood.ThereviewthepromisedlandextendbeyondtheswellingJordan'sflood.Byfaithsurveythelandscapeo'er,Wherelivingwatersgentlyflow;'Tillearthusurpyourlovenomore,'Tillallyou'reyourkindlingpassionsglow."

WhatgloriousprospectsarepresentedtotheChristianpilgrimwhenhe,byfaith,gazesontheheightsofMountZionabove!TherestandstheNewJerusalem, the city of our God, in dazzling glory. Through its goldenstreets the river of life rolls its brightwaters; and on the banks of thatcrystalstream,grows luxuriantly thetreeof life, loadedwiththerichestfruits. To those fountains of immortality the Lamb conductsHis whiterobedfollowers,andintastingofjoysthepurestandnoblest,infeastingonthebanquetofredeeminglove,thesaintsspendtheagesofglory.

On those 'walls of jasper' and 'streets of gold' the sunbeams are alwaysshining;butnoearthlysunilluminatesthecelestialcity.ThegloryofGod

enlightens it,and theLamb is the light thereof.OurHeavenlyFather isthere,andHisgloryismanifestedthere.JesusourelderBrotheristhereandHeisthecenterofheavenlyattraction;ofheavenlyglory.

Heaven is a chosen spot; selected by Christ; prepared from thefoundation of the world for the eternal abode of the righteous. To theheirsof immortality,Christwill at lastpronounce this joyful invitation,"Come,youblessedofmyFather, inherit thekingdompreparedforyoufromthefoundationoftheworld."

Thus a place is already prepared for the redeemed; a place renderedinfinitelyattractivebyadisplayofdivinepower,wisdom,goodness,andlove. The beauty of heaven should attract us. It is a place of perpetualloveliness; a kingdomof unfading glory. The earthlyCanaanhadmanyattractions,butwhatwasthattotheheavenly?ItistheCanaanabovethatis so glorious! It is that 'pleasant land and goodly heritage' whichstretches beyond the swellings of Jordan, that is so attractive to theChristian.EverychildofGodlongstoreachthosebrightshoresofapurerclimate,whereeverlastinggloryburstsuponthewearypilgrim!

RespectingtheearthlyCanaan,Moses'prayerwas, 'Ibegyou, letmegooverandseethatgoodlandthatisbeyondJordan,thatgoodlymountain,and Lebanon.'Howmuchmore should every Christian earnestly striveand pray that 'an entrance may be administered unto him abundantlyintotheeverlastingkingdomofourLordandSaviorJesusChrist.'TheearthlyParadisewasacharmingspot,wheregreweverytreethatwaspleasanttothesight,andgoodforfood;thetreeoflifealsointhemidstofthegarden;andthereissuedacrystalstreamtowaterthelovelyregion,andtofertilizeabloomingworld.Howdelightfultohavedweltinsuchahome as this. But Immanuel's land, the everlasting home of God'schildren,shinesfarmoregloriousthanevershonetheearthlyParadise.

HowconsolingtothinkthateverychildofGodshallfinallybebroughttothat celestial world, to gaze with wondering eyes on its untold glories!Whatgratitudedoweowe toGod forprovidingsuchan inheritance forus! ToHimwe should continually raise our hearts in grateful songs ofpraise.WeshouldcalluponoursoulsandallthatiswithinustoblessHis

holyname.WeshouldexclaimwiththeApostle,"BlessedbetheGodandFatherofourLordJesusChrist,who,accordingtoHisabundantmercyhas begotten us again unto a living hope by the resurrection of JesusChristfromthedead;toaninheritanceincorruptibleandundefiled,andthat fades not away; reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by thepowerofGodthroughfaithuntosalvation,readytoberevealedinthelasttime."

Undermanypleasingviews,heavenisattractivelysetforthbythesacredwriters.Toaccommodatetheirdescriptionstoourcapacitiestheyadoptvarious emblems, drawn from sublunary scenes. These figurativeexpressionsbut faintly exhibit the glory of the landof immortality.Butthey will suffice us for the present. Indeed, in our present state ofexistence, we could not possibly bear the full effulgence of that glory,whichwillburstupontheransomedsoulwhenmortalityisswallowedupinlife.

1. Heaven is represented as A COUNTRY, "a better country." Of thePatriarchsitissaidthatthey'soughtacountry,'thatthey'desiredabettercountry, that is, a heavenly one; wherefore God is not ashamed to becalled their God, for He has prepared for them a city.' Heaven is that'pleasantland' towhichallChristianpilgrimsaretraveling.Wearenowinawildernessworld,wherethewindsofadversityblowuponus,andthetempests of sorrow sweepalongourpathway.But thispresentworld isnotourhome.Ourmarchisheavenward;tothegloriousland.GuidedbytheCaptainofoursalvation,wearecomingupfromthewilderness,andourfeetshallsoonstandonthegloriousmountofGod.Ourconversationisinheaven,ourfutureinheritanceliesthere,andwearelookingonitasoureternalhome.Nowonderthenthat itshouldappearsoattractiveinoureyes.Nowonderthatweshouldlongtobeholdthegoodlandwhichisafaroff.

All true believers desire that 'better country.' They feel that they arestrangersandpilgrimshere.Theylookbeyondthispresentworldtothoseregionsof perpetual delightwhere they expect to spend countless ages.The hope of salvation animates them in every earthly trial, and thepromisesofGod'sWord elevate their view above this crumblingworld.

Theirheartsoverflowwithjoyunspeakable,andfullofglory,whentheyareassuredoftheblessedtruththattheireyesseetheKingofheaveninHisbeauty,andthecelestialCanaaninitsglory!

Heavenisapromisedland.WearejourneyinguntotheplaceofwhichtheLordsaid,'Iwillgiveyou.'God'sWordistrue.Everysaintthathaslivedonearthshallbebroughttothisheavenlyworld,whereJesusreignsinallHis glory. Cheer up then, you drooping saints! View that happy worldwhereyourSaviorreigns,andwhereyouareshortlytoreignwithHim!

2.HeavenisdescribedasAGLORIOUSCITY,acitythathasfoundations,whose builder and maker is God. But who can perfectly paint thesplendor of that city, whose light is the glory of God? 'Beautiful forsituation,thejoyofthewholeearthisMountZion.'Wherewillyoubeginto enumerate the attractions of that celestial city, the abode of theredeemed?Gloriousthingsarespokenofyou,OcityofGod.Wecangainbutaglimpseofitsgloriesnow,inthelightofGod'sWord,buttheywillbeseenandtoldthroughalleternity.WiththeeyeoffaithletusnowviewthecityofourGod,theNewJerusalem,setonZion'sholyhill.

How dazzling does it appear. Its walls of jasper, its gates of pearls, itsstreetsofgold,thecityitself'ofpuregoldlikeuntoclearglass.'Whenthesplendor of 'that great city, the holy Jerusalem,' wasmanifested to thebelovedJohn,raptinheavenlyvisionontheisleofPatmos,hedescribesitas 'having thegloryofGod, andher lightwas likeuntoa stonemostprecious,evenlikeajasperstone,clearascrystal.Andthebuildingofthewallofitwasofjasper;andthecitywaspuregold,likeuntoclearglass.Andthetwelvegatesweretwelvepearls;everygatewasofonepearl.Thestreetofthecitywaspuregold,asitweretransparentglass.'HowbrightlyshinestheheavenlyJerusalem,irradiatedbythegloryofGod!Nocityonearthevershonelikethis!

NinevehandBabylon,'thegloryofkingdoms,'wereoncesplendidcities;butthatCityofLight,whosefoundationswerelaidbeforeearthrosefromchaos;whosebuilderandmakerisGodHimself,faroutshinesthemallinunutterable splendor. Yes, and when all earthly cities shall have beenburied in everlasting ruin,when this terrestrial globe shall havepassed

away inoneawful conflagration, thecelestial cityofZionshall shine ineternalglory,whileransomedsinnerswalkingoldenstreets!

LettheChristianpilgrimwhohassetoutfromthecityofDestructiontothecityofImmanuel,oftencontemplatehisglorioushome.Attractedbyits glory, let him look into it, and long to be among its shininginhabitants,who sound on goldenharps the praises of redeeming love.Standingatthegatesofthecelestialcity,lethimgaze,withJohnBunyan,on its splendor, as those pearly gates are opened wide to admit thetransfigured pilgrims. "Now just as the gateswere opened to let in themen,I lookedinafterthem,andbeholdthecityshonelikethesun;thestreets,also,werepavedwithgold,andinthemwalkedmanymenwithcrowns on their heads, palms in their hands, and golden harps to singpraiseswith.Therewereofthosewhohadwings;andtheyansweredoneanotherwithout intermission,saying, 'Holy,holy,holy is theLord.'Andafterthat,theyshutupthegates;whichwhenIhadseen,Iwishedmyselfamongthem."

Ofthatcityofglory,Johndeclares,"Isawnotempletherein;fortheLordGodAlmightyandtheLambarethetempleofit."Therewasatempleinthe earthly Jerusalem, but there is none in the heavenly. Nor is anyrequiredthere.Sweet,intimatecommunionwithGodandtheLambwillbe enjoyed there without amedium. The gloriousmanifestation of thedivine presence will forever dispense with the use of all means ofcommunicationbetweenGod andHispeople.HereweworshipHim inearthlytemples,bythemeanswhichHehasappointed;butthereweshalldwellinHisimmediatepresence,anddrinkattheFountainofLife!

ThecelestialcityissogloriouslyilluminatedbytheeffulgenceofGodthatithasnoneedofanatural luminary to shine in it.And thecityhadnoneedofthesun,neitherofthemoon,toshineinit;forthegloryofGoddid lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. The divine presencesheds such a radiance there that it lights up all heaven in everlastingglory.Jesus,theSunofRighteousness,shinesthere;andinHislightweshallseelight.Trulylightissweet,andapleasantthingitisfortheeyestobeholdthesun.Butnolightissosweetasthis,andnosunsopleasanttobeholdastheSunofRighteousnessshininginHismeridiansplendor!

In that celestial city, there shall be no night. Eternal day beams withunclouded splendor in the city of Immanuel. No natural or moraldarknessshalleveroverspreadthelandscapeofglory."Yoursunshallnomoregodown,neithershallyourmoonwithdrawitself;fortheLordshallbeyoureverlastinglight,andthedaysofyourmourningshallbeended."

Butlookagainatthatcelestialcity.EmanatingfromGod'seternalthrone,theriveroflifeflowsthroughitsmidst."Andheshowedmeapureriverofthewaterof life,clearascrystal,proceedingoutofthethroneofGodand the Lamb." The heavenly Jerusalem is enriched with 'the river ofGod,which is full ofwater.' This is the stream thatmakes Immanuel'slandtobloomwithimmortaljoys.Thisistheriverofpleasure;theriverwhose streams shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of thetabernacleofthemostHigh.There,theinhabitantsofZionmaybatheinthepurefountainsofimmortality,'closebythethroneofGod,'anddrinkfreely of those swelling streams of purest joy which flow through therealmsofglory.

InthecityofourGodisthetreeoflife,ofwhosedeliciousfruitthesaintseat,andunderwhoseambrosialbowers,theydwellineternalrepose,andcelestialbliss. "In themidstof thestreetof it,andoneithersideof theriver, was there the tree of life, which bore twelve kinds of fruits, andyielded her fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for thehealingofthenations."

ThereismuchintheheavenlyJerusalemtoattractyou;manycrownsofglory;manymansionsofbliss;manysongsofpraise;muchthattheeyehas never seen, the ear never heard, nor the human mind neverconceived.StrivethentoobtainaninterestinJesus,thatyoumay'haverighttothetreeoflife,andmayenterinthroughthegatesintothecity.'HowcheeringisthepromiseoftheSavior,"TohimthatovercomeswillIgivetoeatofthetreeoflife,whichisinthemidstoftheParadiseofGod!"Then fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, and youwillcomeoffmore than a conqueror throughHim that loved you and gaveHimselfforyou.

3. Heaven is represented as A GLORIOUS BUILDING, the building of

God, the future happy home of the Christian. "For we know, "says theApostle, "that ifourearthlyhouseof this tabernacleweredissolved,wehaveabuilding fromGod,ahousenotmadewithhands,eternal in theheavens."Confidentofreachingthisblessedhome,thebelieverisenabledtoexclaimwiththePsalmist,"Surely,goodnessandmercyshallfollowmeallthedaysofmylife;andIwilldwellinthehouseoftheLordforever."Heaven is theeternalFather'shouse, inwhicharemanymansions; thehomeoftheredeemed,wherecongregatednationssingthesongofMosesandtheLamb.

WhenChristwouldcomfortHissorrowfuldisciplesHesetsforthheavenundertheendearingemblemofahome;aFather'shouse,adornedwithmany spacious mansions. "In my Father's house, says the Savior, aremany mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you." There issomethingpeculiarlyattractiveinthisdescriptionofheaven.Howsweetis even an earthly home; but how endeared will be that home above,wherewe shallmeetwithourHeavenlyFather,withour elderBrother,with our dear Christian friends, who went to glory before us; with thewholehouseholdof faith!Inthathousenotmadewithhands, thereare'manymansions'forourenjoyment.There isampleroomandprovisionforallGod'schildrenintheuppersanctuary,everythingtorenderthemhappy,unspeakablyhappythroughalleternity!

May the reader so live in the faith of the gospel, that when his claytabernacle is ready to crumble intodust,his immortal spirit, guidedbytheangelsofGod,maytakeitsjoyfulflighttothemansionsofglory,anddwellforeverinthoserealmsofbliss,wherebeautysmileseternally,andpleasureneverdies!

2.THEBLESSEDNESS

"Blessedarethepureinheart,fortheyshallseeGod."Matthew5:8.

"Atyourrighthandtherearepleasuresforevermore."Psalm16:11.

"Inthoseblestregionsofdelight,WhereJesusisunveiledtosight,Nomortaltonguecane'erexpressTheransomedsinner'sblessedness."

Theblessednessofheavenisapowerfulattractiontodrawsoulstoit.AnditispresentedinallitscharmsintheworldofGod-presentedtoyou-tome.Thenletusseekit.IfwearetruebelieversinJesus,wesoonenjoyallthat unspeakable blessedness which the Bible now presents to theChristian'sview.Theblessednessoftheredeemedinglorywillconsistintheexemptionfromallevil,andintheenjoymentofallgood.Therewillbenothingtohurtordestroy,inallGod'sholymountain.

All will be blessed there in the possession of the greatest good. Everyenjoyment in heaven will conspire to increase and perpetuate theblessedness of the saints in light. Those happy soulswhose robes havebeen washed white in the blood of Immanuel, and who are presentedfaultlessbeforethethroneofGod,"shallhungernomore,neitherthirstanymore;neithershallthesunlightonthem,noranyheat.FortheLambwho is in themidst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead themunto living fountainsofwaters,andGod shallwipeawayall tears fromtheireyes."

The redeemed in glory shall be placed far above the reach of a sinfulworld, and shall dwell securely in heavenly bliss. There, they shallflourish in our God's holy place. There, they shall be crowned withblessedness, and glory and immortality. How attractive does theblessedness of heaven appear, as presented in theHoly Scriptures! Noheartcanconceiveit-notonguecanexpressit.Itisaboundlessoceanofeternaldelights!Hereonearth, theChristian tastesbutdrops from theoceanabove;butsoonheshallstandonthe"crystalseaofglass"beforethethrone,anddrinkendlesspleasuresin.

Blessed Jesus! Prepare us all for serving you in mansions above- forparticipatinginthosejoyswhichareinyourpresence-inthosepleasureswhichareatyourrighthandforever."Inyourpresenceisfullnessofjoy;

atyourrighthandtherearepleasuresforevermore."

Inattemptingtospeakoftheblessednessofheaven,wemay,inthefirstplace, conceiveof itNEGATIVELY. "Notonlywhat is inheaven shouldattractus to it,butwhat isnot there." (Nevins)Anddoyouaskwhat isnotthere-Weanswer, there isnosin-nosorrow-notears-nopain-nodisease-nodeath,inheaven.

1.NoSINthere.Sinreignsinthisworld;butinheavenitsveryexistencewill be eradicated.There the childrenofGod shall never complain of abodyofsinanddeath.ThoseimmortalformsthatsurroundthethroneofGodareallsinlessbeings.SinwillneversheditsbanefulinfluenceintheParadise above. Satan can find no admittance there. None of his fierydartswillbecastinglory.

2.No SORROW there. In heaven therewill be nomore "sorrow." It ishereinthispresentworld,withinus,allaroundus.Whohasnotfeltthewitheringtouchofsorrow-This isaworldofsorrow.Here,onewaveoftroubleafteranothersweepsoverusuntilwecloseoureyesindeath."Intheworld," says the Savior, "you shall have tribulation." It is expresslydeclared,that"wemustthroughmuchtribulationenterintothekingdomofGod."Howoftenhavewetastedthisbitterfruitofsin!Howoftenhaveourhopesbeenblasted;ourexpectationsdisappointed!Howoftenhavewe been called tomourn the loss of near and dear relatives! Here ourheartsarealmostconstantlyfilledwithsomekindofsorrow.

But,dearfellow-pilgrim,cheerup!Thereliesabrightprospectbeforeus.Hasnot your eye caught a glimpse of yonder goldenplains beyond thegrave,where no sorrow ever comes, andwhere you hope to dwellwithJesus, in endless glory! Then go on your way rejoicing in tribulation.Heavenwillmakeamendsforallyourmomentarysorrowhere.Youwillsoonforgetallsublunarygriefinthatlandofblessedness,wheresorrowisnomore.

3.NoTEARSthere."Godshallwipeawayall tears fromtheireyes."Noexpressionofgriefisthere-no"crying";nomourning.There,"sorrowandmourning shall flee away." Happy world, where all the redeemed are,

withcheerfulcountenances,rejoicinginGodtheirSavior!Therenotearsbedewthe cheek.Whata striking contrast is therebetweenheavenandearthinthisrespect.Thisworld,withallitsfanciedhappiness,isnothinginrealitybutavalleyoftears;andyouhavenottolivemanyyearsbeforeyouexperiencethesadtruthofthis.

Heresinhasentered,andsorrowhasentered,andtearsflow;butinthecelestialJerusalem"thevoiceofweepingshallbenomoreheard,neitherthevoiceofcrying."There,dearChristian,"youshallweepnomore;thedaysofyourmourningshallbeended."Hereonearth,thepeopleofGodarecalledtoshedmanytears."Youfeedthemwiththebreadoftears,andgive them tears to drink in great measure." How consoling, in such avalleyoftearsasthis,tothinkofheaven!Howattractivedoesthatjoyfulland appear to the mourning Christian! He knows that God will theregentlywipeawayallhistears.Thetearsoftherighteouswillsoonceasetoflow. In a little while "the Lord God will wipe away tears from off allfaces."O,whatahappythought,tothinkthatitisGodhimselfwhowillwipe away every tear of sorrow in glory! Surely the Christian ought torejoicenow.

4.InheaventherewillbenoPAINnorDISEASE."Neithershalltherebeanymorepain; fortheformerthingsarepassedaway."Ofthatcelestialworld, "the inhabitants shall never say, I am sick." Pain and diseaseravagethisfallenworld."Thewholecreationgroansandtravailsinpaintogether."Hereeventherighteous"ischastenedalsowithpainuponhisbed,andthemultitudeofhisboneswithstrongpain;"butthereGodwillremovefromhimallpainandsicknessforever.HerethechildrenofGodareoftenlaidonbedsofaffliction,and"wearisomenightsareappointeduntothem;"therebloominghealthshallcheertheirsouls,andtheyshallexperience pain and disease no more. What a great blessing to beeternally free fromall pain and sickness!To the sons anddaughters ofafflictionhowattractiveshouldthatworldappear,whereakindHeavenlyPhysiciannotonlywipesawayeverytear,buthealsalldiseasesandfreesfrom all pain! "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all hisbenefits:whoforgivesallyouriniquities;whohealsallyourdiseases!"

5. Heaven is A LAND OF IMMORTALITY. Jesus Christ has abolished

death, and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. Inthose happy regions beyond Jordan's stream, there is no death. "Andthere shall be nomore death." Immortal life will be enjoyed by all theblessedinhabitantsofImmanuel'sland.Howanimatinginadyingworldlike this, to think of a glorious immortality! How unlike this land ofdeath,isheaven!Thereallisbloomingimmortality.

Here, in themidst of lifewe are in death;we are surroundedwith thedying and the dead; thousands fall within our view. The young, thebeautifulandthevigorous,arenotexempted fromthepainful strokeofthe'kingofterrors'.There,deathitselfisswallowedupinvictory.

Here on earth, the dearest ties that bind us to earth are cut asunder.Deathdoesnotevenspareournearestanddearestrelatives.Hisicyhandis often stretched over the face of a beloved wife- an affectionatehusband- a smiling babe- a tender son or daughter- a loving sister orbrother-adearparent.Butinheaven,deathshallstrikeitsdartsnomore.HowrevivingtotheChristianwhoismourningthelossofpiousrelatives,to think that in those joyful regions of bliss, he shall meet his deardepartedfriendswhonowsleepinJesus.ThenshallweeverbewiththeLordinhistempleofglory,wherepartingisnomore,andwherethereisnomorepainfulseparationofkindredsoulsindeath.

LetthemourningChristiantakecomfortfromthisblessedhope.The'lastenemy' (death) will soon be destroyed. God is just ready to say of hispeople, "Iwill ransomthemfromthepowerof thegrave; Iwill redeemthemfromdeath;"andofdeath,"Odeath,Iwillbeyourplague!Ograve,I will be your destruction!" "This corruptible must" soon "put onincorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality then shall bebrought to pass the saying that is written, "Death is swallowed up invictory."Asweentertheportalsofgloryandplaceourfeetontheblessedshoresofimmortality,wemaytriumphantlyexclaim,"Odeath,whereisyoursting!Ograve,whereisyourvictory!""Andthereshallbenomoredeath."

We come now to notice the POSITIVE BLESSEDNESS of heaven. Andwhatistherethatissoattractive?Inheaven,thereisnotonlytheabsence

ofallevil,buttheactualenjoymentof thehighestgood-ofunspeakableblessedness! There is the tree of life, in themidst of the Paradise- thehiddenmanna-fullnessof joy- riversofpleasures- crownsof glory thatfade not away- eternal life- society the most pure; perfect and lovely-sweetcommunionwithGod-thegloriouspresenceoftheblessedSavior.Andthisisenough-enoughtosatisfythemostcapaciousdesire.

What heart can conceive, orwhat tongue can describe, the blessednesscontainedinthissingleverseofScripture:"ThereforearetheybeforethethroneofGod,andservehimdayandnightinhistemple:andhethatsitson the throne shall dwell among them."This blessedness awaits all thechildren of God.Happy thought! In heaven the saints will be perfectlyblessed, in the full enjoyment of God through all eternity! The eternalGodwill be the inexhaustible source of all their blessedness. From thefountainofInfiniteLovetheywillderivethepurestbliss.Intheoceanofdivineblessednessandglory,theyshallbatheforeverandever.

The blessedness of the saints will be derived directly from God, thefountainof all goodness.Hewill supply theneedsof all his people.Hewillcrowntheirheadswithimmortalbliss.WhatblessednessmustfilltheransomedsoulwhenitisbroughttodwellinthepresenceofHim,"whoalonehasimmortality,dwellinginthatlightwhichnomancanapproachunto;whomnomanhasseen,norcansee:towhombehonorandpowereverlasting.Amen."

O, to bask in the full beams of His light, whose glory kindles up therealms above in inconceivable splendor!Whatmust those blessings bewhich a God of love will confer upon his blood-bought flock! Howinnumerable,howinvaluable,howsoul-ravishingwilltheybe!Inheaven,the blessedness of the saints will flow in an eternal stream from God,theirSavior.There,everysoulwillbefilledwithallthefullnessofGod.O,whatriversofblessednesswillflowfromtheEternalFountain!

Theredeemedwillenjoyallthatunspeakableblessedness,arisingfromadisplay of the divine glory– from sweet, unrestrained communionwithGod–fromthemanifestationofaSavior's love– fromtheenjoymentofthat love through eternity. What more does an immortal soul desire?

Whatmorecanitenjoy?

Thissingleattraction,theenjoymentofGodinChristthroughablessedeternity, should draw every soul to glory. Such a blessedness, eternityalonecanunfold.Thisblessingwillenrichyoursoultoalleternity.

Ifyouhavefoundthe"pearlofgreatprice,"alltheblissofheavenwillbeyours!thepleasuresatGod'srighthand!fullnessofjoyinhispresence!arighttothetreeoflife!Inaword,theinheritanceofallthings!"Hethatovercomesshallinheritallthings;andIwillbehisGod,andheshallbemyson.""Allthingsareyours;whetherPaul,orApollos,orCephas,ortheworld,orlife,ordeath,orthingspresent,orthingstocome;allareyours,andyouareChrist's,andChristisGod's."

Blessed with the presence of Christ, the saints shall enjoy thatGLORIOUSRESTwhichremainsforthem.WearingthecrownsofglorywhichaSavior'sloveplacedupontheirbrow,theyshallparticipateintheecstatic joysofheaven.Theyshall eatof the treeof life,which is in themidstoftheParadiseofGod.Yes,"Thetreeoflifeshallblesstheirsight,WithgoldenfruittheirtastedelightBeneathitsgreenandspreadingboughs,Theharpshalllullthemtorepose;Andinseraphicpleasuresdeep,Theirpowerfulsenseseversteep."

Theyshalleatofthehiddenmanna,andreceiveawhitestone;andonthestoneanewnamewritten,whichnomanknows,excepthimwhoreceivesit.Theyshallbeclothedwithwhiteclothing,andtheirnamesshallnotbeblotted out of the book of life. Theywill encompass the throne of Godwith everlasting songs of praise; they shall even sit with Christ on histhrone."TohimthatovercomeswillIgranttositwithmeonmythrone,even as I also overcame, and have sat down with my Father on histhrone."

TheLambinthemidstofthethrone,istheimmediatesourceofheaven'sblessedness! Christ will ever remain the glorious Head of his living

members-hismysticalbody,thechurch.Hewillsupplytheireveryneed.Hewillprovideforthemrichblessings-theblessingsofeternalsalvation."Theyshallfeedintheways,andtheirpasturesshallbeinallhighplaces.Theyshallnothungerorthirst;neithershalltheheatnorsunsmitethem;for he that hasmercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs ofwatershallheguidethem."

The Lamb not only feeds them with heaven's richest fruits, but alsoguidesthemtofountainsofbliss-springsoflivingwater."TheLambwhois in themidstof the throne, shall feed them,andshall lead themuntoliving fountains of waters." Blessed lot of the righteous! Happy is thatpeople,thatisinsuchacase;yes,happyisthatpeoplewhoseGodistheLord!Incontemplatingsuchblessedness,wellmayweexclaimwith theinspired Penman, "Happy are you, O Israel: who is like unto you, Opeople,savedbytheLord."

Heaven is a place of ETERNAL BLESSEDNESS. No change fromhappiness to misery is experienced there. None of the vicissitudes ofearthshallbe there.Oneperpetual sceneof bliss crowns all.Onewide,unboundedfieldofexpandingblessednessspreadsaway,farawaybeforeeverysoulcladinglory.

Inheaven,therewillbeANETERNALPROGRESSIONINKNOWLEDGEAND HAPPINESS. Every new discovery of the ways and works of theAlmighty, will roll new tides of glory and blessedness around theransomedsoul.O,whatpowerfulattractionsare these!Should theynotdrawyoutoglory?Whatareallthepleasuresofadyingworldcomparedwithonehour'senjoymentofheavenlyblessedness?Howworthless!Mayyou possess more permanent joys than those of earth. May it be yourhappinesstoreignwithChristforeverandever.MayGodgrantthateveryreader of this little volume may be brought to enjoy that blessednesswhichisreservedfortherighteous,inanotherandabetterworld;andtohisgloriousnamebeeverlastingpraise!Amen.

3.THEJOY

"Inyourpresenceisfullnessofjoy."Psalm16:11

"There,inyourblissfulpresence,reignsImmortaljoyserene;Nowintrystormsareheardtoroar,Nordesolationseen.

"Aroundyouflowunmixeddelights,Theriversdeepandwide;Whilefromtheoceanofyourlove,Proceedsanendlesstide.

"Youofalljoythecenterare;Oh!neverfrommysouldepart;BlestJesus!letyoursavinglove,Likedew,dropgentlyfromabove."

WhentheChristianhaspassedthevalleyoflife,andisdonewithmortalcareandgrief,theSaviorwillwelcomehimhometoglorywiththisjoyfulinvitation,"EnterintothejoyofyourLord."Thenbeginstheheavenlyjoyof thebeliever.He restswithJesusandenters into the joyofhisLord.Andwhatisthisjoy?Whatisthereaboutitthatissoattractive?Itisajoyunspeakableandfullofglory.Thepencannotdescribeit,northetonguedeclare it. It is the joy of being with Christ- the joy of possessing theheavenly inheritance- a fullness of joy. The joy of heaven is full,satisfying,andeternal.It isecstaticjoy.Ittransportstheransomedsoulwithineffabledelights!

This joy is tobe found in theblissfulpresenceofChrist.BlessedJesus!Youarethesourceandcenterofheavenlyjoy.Enablemetofixmyheartupon you. Bestow upon me, your unworthy servant, the joys of yoursalvation.Letmenotwanderonemomentfromthepathoflife.Guidemesafely through the wilderness, over Jordan, until, landed on Canaan'shappyshores,Iseeyoufacetoface,andinyourpresence,taste,througheternalages,thejoysofaredeemedsoul.

"In your presence," cries the Psalmist, "is fullness of joy." There is an

abundanceto lifteverysoul.Therewillbeno lackof joy inheaven.Thesaintswillalways"bejoyfulinglory."

Howravishingwillbethejoysoftheredeemedinthemansionsofglory!Whatineffablejoywillfillthesoulofthebeliever,whenhesitsdownwithAbraham,IsaacandJacob,inthekingdomofGod-whenhereignswithImmanuelonhis throne-whenheviewsallheaven'sbliss ashis!Amidsuch joys as these, surely his enraptured soul must be lost in wonder,love,andpraise.ButthejoyoftheglorifiedsaintinthepresenceofChristisbeyondhumancomprehensionorknowledge.

"Hisjoysareallalikeunknown,As,seatedonImmanuel'sthrone,HedrinksthelivingstreamsofblissAndviewsallheaven'sjoysashis."

Letuscontemplatethejoyofthesaintwhoispresentedfaultlessbeforethe presence of God. There is a glorious day approaching, when "theredeemedoftheLordshallreturn,andcomewithsinginguntoZion;andeverlastingjoyshallbeupontheirheads;theyshallobtaingladnessandjoy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away." Then shall ransomedsinnersbegintheirsongsofjoyfulnessinthecelestialZion.Thenshallalltheir tearsbewipedaway, andeternal joyandgladness fill theirhappysouls.

Therearethreesourcesfromwhichjoywillbebroughttothesaintinhisglorifiedandexaltedstate;acontemplationofthepast,thepresent,andthefuture.

1.CONTEMPLATIONOFTHEPAST.Whenhearrives at the realmsofgloryand looks back upon his past sufferings, howwill joy arise in hisheart!WithpleasurewillhecontemplatethewaythroughwhichtheLordhas ledhim.Nowhe sees that all his earthly trials, and afflictions, andsorrows, and tears have come to an end.He has gotten safely over thetempestuousoceanof lifeandreachedtheblessedhavenofImmanuel'sland. This reflection will afford him unspeakable joy. He views with ajoyfulheartalltheformerdealingsofGodwithhissoul.Though,during

hispilgrimageonearth,hewasoftenreadytoexclaimwiththeafflictedPatriarch when contemplating the providences of God with regard tohimself, "All these things are against me!" Yet now he sees that "allthings"haveworkedtogetherforhisgood.

Inheaven,Christwillmakeeverythingplain to thebeliever. "Youdon'tunderstandnowwhatIamdoing,"saystheSavior,"butyoushallknowhereafter." The blessed "hereafter" has come when the Christian willknow why so many calamities befell him on earth; why so manyafflictions were sent upon him, why so many sorrows were strewedaroundhispathwaytoimmortalbliss.Allwasfittinghimforglory.Everytrial,everyafflictionwasliftinghimhighertowardsheaven.Nowthathehas reached theblessed shores of glory, hewill joyfully exclaim, in theviewofthepast,"O,Lord,youhaveledmeforthbytherightway!"

2. Look again at the joy of the saint with Christ as he VIEWS HISPRESENTGLORIOUSSTATE.Howwillhisheartoverflowwithseraphicjoy and love, when he sees his Redeemer, who is to him the mostattractive of all objects, and the blessed source of his joys! If "you lovehimeventhoughyouhaveneverseenhim.Thoughyoudonotseehim,youtrusthim;andevennowyouarehappywithaglorious,inexpressiblejoy,"whatwillbethejoywhenheshallseehimasheis, facetoface, intheheavenlykingdom,inallhismatchlessbeauty!

Of this joy we can know but little. It passes human thought. All thepreciousnessand lovelinessof theSaviorwill thenappear toview.Thiswill fill the soul with unutterable joy. The enraptured saint will beenabledtoexclaimwithoutfearorhesitation,"MyBelovedismineandIamHis;Heisthechiefamongtenthousandandaltogetherlovely!"

The presence of the Savior will be a source of unspeakable joy to theChristian.NothingwillcausethehearttorejoicemorethanthisblissfulsightofaglorifiedRedeemer.Christcheeredhissorrowfuldiscipleswiththis blessedhope. "Iwill see you again," he says, "and yourheart shallrejoice,andyourjoynomantakesfromyou."FromtheblessedJesuswillemanate swelling streamsof joy to refreshand invigorate thepeopleofGod.Howsweetisthisthought!

Has heavenly joy any attractions for my readers? Is not this singleconsideration the joy arising from a sight of Christ and his glory,sufficientto leadthemto inquirethewaytoZion?Whatmorepowerfulattractioncouldpresentitselftoalluresinnerstoglory?

Butthereare innumerable 'rivuletsof joy' that issue fromthis fountain.Thepresenceand societyof thegloriousSavior is aboundlessoceanofjoy;while the enjoyment of heavenly bliss, the communionwith saintsand angels, are the streams of pleasure that are lost in this fathomlessabyss!As thesaintviewshispresentcondition,hesees that it isoneofperfect blessedness.What emotions of joymust thrill through his soulwhenheseeshimselfencircledwithdivineglory,whenheviewsall thepresentblissofheavenashis,whenheismadeapartakerofallthesoul-ravishingenjoymentsanddelightsofparadise!

3.Butthisisnotall.AsheVIEWSTHEFUTURE,oneperpetualsceneofblessednessliesbeforehim!Agesofgloryinendlesssuccession,inwhichheistopossessfullnessofjoyinthepresenceofGod,rollawaybeforehisblissfulimagination.Whatineffablejoymustspringupinhisheartashecontemplateseternalbliss!Heseesbeforehimanoceanofglorywithoutashore,andwithoutastorm.Aneternityofglorymustsurelyfillhissoulwith inexpressible joy! With the greatest delight will he meditate oneternity.Thisisthecrowninggloryofthewhole.Theanticipationofthefuture will afford the saint present felicity; and as he sails over theboundlessoceanhewillrejoicewithjoyunspeakableandfullofglory!

Concerning his people, aGod of infinite love has said, "Everlasting joyshallbeuntothem."Thejoysoftheredeemedingloryhavenoend.Thosehappy souls before the throne of God fear no termination to theirheavenlyfelicity.Wellmaythepoetexclaim:"Couldyou,sorichinrapture,fearanend;Thatghastlythoughtwoulddrinkupallyourjoy,Andquiteunparadisetherealmsoflight."

Thuswehavebrieflynoticedheavenlyjoy,butthehalfisnottold!O,thateveryreadermaybeattractedbythoseunspeakablejoyswhichareinthe

presenceofGod.Lethimcontemplatethesejoys,lethimanticipatethem,and hewill look beyond the fleeting delights of an evil world, to thosepleasureswhichareatGod's righthand forever.Earthwill then lose itsattractions,andheavenbeeverinhiseye.

LettheChristiantakecourageinhispilgrimage-letthejoyoftheLordbehis strength. Let him remember, that though this world is a 'night ofweeping',yetthereisabrightmorningcoming-amorningofeverlastingjoy."Weepingmayendureforanight,butjoycomesinthemorning."Lettheweeping Christian remember that hewill soon reap in joy- that heshall rejoice in God, his unfailing portion through a glorious eternity."Thosewhosowintearsshallreapinjoy.Hethatgoesforthandweeps,bearingpreciousseed,shalldoubtlesscomeagainwithrejoicing,bringinghissheaveswithhim."

MayableedingSaviorbeyourallandinall;andwhenhisgloryshallberevealed,may you, among countlessmillions, be onewho shall be gladalsowithexceedingjoy.RestinJesus,andinalittlewhileallwillbewell.

"Andnow,allglorytoGod,whoisabletokeepyoufromstumbling,andwhowill bring you into his glorious presence innocent of sin andwithgreat joy.All glory tohim,whoalone isGodourSavior, throughJesusChristourLord.Yes,glory,majesty,power,andauthoritybelongtohim,inthebeginning,now,andforevermore.Amen."Jude1:24-25

"JoyisafruitthatwillnotgrowInnature'sbarrensoil;AllweboasttillChristweknow,Isvanityandtoil."ButwheretheLordhasplantedgrace,Andmadehisgloriesknown;TherefruitsofheavenlyjoyandpeaceArefound,andtherealone."AbleedingSaviorseenbyfaith,Asenseofpard'ninglove;Ahopethattriumphsoverdeath,Givejoyslikethoseabove.

"Totakeaglimpsewithintheveil,ToknowthatGodismine;Arespringsofjoythatneverfail,Unspeakable!Divine!"Thesearethejoyswhichsatisfy,Andsanctifythemind;Whichmakethespiritmountonhigh,Andleavetheworldbehind."Nomore,believers,mournyourlot,ButifyouaretheLord's;Resigntothosewhoknowhimnot.Suchjoysasearthaffords."

THEGLORY

"Ihavegiventhemtheglorythatyougaveme."John17:22

"Theransomedsoul,ingloryclad,ShinesbrighterthanmeridiansunThewearypilgrim,nowsosad,Therefindshistoilsomejourneydone.Cheerup,Osaint,oppressedwithgrief,Withjoyexpandyourdroopingwing;Jesusaffordsthekindrelief;Jesusextractstheenvenomedsting.Soonyouwillreachtheblestabode,Wherehappypilgrimseverreign;SoonshallyouseethefaceofGod,Andalltheblissofheavenobtain."

Heavenisagloriousplace.Itsgloryshouldattractus.Howdelightfultothinkofheavenlyglory!Howitraisesthesoulaboveearth!Letussoaron high and view the glory of theNew Jerusalem, and of the saints inlight.We have seen that the glory of God and the Lamb irradiates the

celestialworld.There, the Sun ofRighteousness always shines, and hisbeamsgladdentheheartsofaransomedhost.ThereGodsmiles,andthenations of the savedwalk in the light of his countenance. There is oneperpetual noontide of glory in themansions above. There is glory- "anexceeding and eternal weight"- reserved in heaven for those who loveGod.

When thewhole assembly of the redeemed shall standonMountZion,theywillshineasthesunineternalglory."Thenshalltherighteousshineforth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father." Then "thosewho arewise,shallshineasthebrightnessofthefirmament;andthosewhoturnmanytorighteousness,asthestarsforever."GloryshinesinImmanuel'sland. The city, the mansions, the inhabitants, are all glorious. EverybelieverinJesuswillbecrownedwitheverlastingglory.Thoughwecouldnotbeartheeffulgenceofheaven'sglory,shoulditnowbeamuponus,yetweknowthatwhenweawaketoimmortality,thatgloryshallberevealedin us.We know that when Christ, our gloriousHead, shall appear, weshallbelikehim;forweshallseehimasheis.

OtobeliketheblessedJesus!Whatheartcandesiremore?IfweareHispeopleweshallsoonbelikehim.Ourbodiesshallshinelikehis–likethatwondrousPersonagewhoseoriginalgloryoncebeamedonMountTabor,whenhisfaceshoneasthesun,andwhenthisclothingwaswhiteasthelight.Inheaven,thewondersofMountTaborwilleverbeexhibited;andthere the pure radiance of the Savior's glory will always beam uponredeemedmillions!

Whocanconceivethisblessedness?Howdesirable,howattractivedoesitappeartoanimmortalmind!Fromthoseheightsofbliss,everysoulwillbeready toexclaimwithPeter, "Lord, it isgood for its tobehere."Butmore than that. The saints will be made partakers of the Redeemer'sglory.""Ihavegiventhemtheglorythatyougaveme""TheLordwillgiveglory."Amazinglove!thatChristshouldexalthisfollowerstosuchbliss,andcrownthemwithsuchglory!

ButwhocandescribethegloryofthesaintswithChrist,contrastedwithwhich,thesplendorofthisworldisdarknessitself!OnwhatJohnsawin

the revelation of the heavenlyworld, and of the redeemed in glory, ,ineloquent living writer (Stephen Tyng) has the following beautiful andglowing expressions: "The glory of the meridian sun- the intensebrightnessofthefurnace-thepureradianceofthelight-thetransparentbeauty of the rainbow- an ocean of gold, translucent as the crystal-precious stones,of every hue, and of the richest forms- fountains, eversparklingwith livingwater- streams, with an unceasing flow of perfectpurity- trees of unchanging verdure, clothed with endless varieties ofbeautifulfruit-livingbeings,ofthenoblestandmostexaltedaspect,cladin garments which earthly art in vain would imitate- music, of thetenderestinfluenceandofthemostoverwhelmingpower;sometimesthesinglemelodyofaheavenlyharpandvoice,andagainflowingforthinavolumeofharmony,likeapproachingthunders,orthemajesticwaterfall,or the mysterious rolling of the sea- a state of being, in its aspect ofloveliness,feeblyillustratedbythemostperfectbridalbeautyandpurityofearth.Allthese,andmanylikethem,areeffortstoexpresstomanthethingswhichhesawandheard.Buttheyareallinvain.Onesentenceofhis own conclusion sums up his acknowledged inability to describe thegloryofthesaintswithChrist–Beloved,nowarewethesonsofGod,anditclothnotyetappearwhatweshallbe;butweknowthatwhenHeshallappear,weshallbelikeHim;forweshallseeHimasHeis."

ToseeChristasheis-tobeholdhisglory-tobemadeapartakeroftheglorythatshallberevealed-thisisheaven;thisisthegloryofthesaints.ItistothisglorythatGodis"bringingmanysons."Itisto"eternalglory"thatwearecalled.Godisleadinghispeopletohistempleofglory-tothatcitywherethereisnonight,andwheretheyneednocandle,neitherthelightofthesun;fortheLordGodgivesthemlight,Andtheyshallreignforeverandever!There,agraciousGodwillbestowuponusthe"richesofhisglory,"andweshallshinetoalleternity,inthegarmentsofgloryandof beauty. We shall inherit a glorious kingdom, and wear a gloriouscrown.Ourbodiesshallbe fashioned likeuntoChrist's "glorious body;"andweshallobtainanexceedingandeternalweightofgloryinthesmileandpresenceofGod.

Inviewofourfutureglory,howinsignificantdothesepresentafflictionsappear?"Iconsiderthatourpresentsufferingsarenotworthcomparing

with the glory that will be revealed in us." Let the afflicted Christianremember, thathismomentarytrialsandsufferingshere,arepreparingforhimaweightycrownofgloryhereafter."Forourpresenttroublesarequite small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us animmeasurably great glory thatwill last forever!"How animating is thishope of a glorious immortality! O joyful hope! It cheers us amid thesurrounding gloom of life; it illuminates our pathway to the tomb; itsheds its radiance beyond the grave; it enables the believer to exclaim,whenhe is just finishinghis earthly course, andabout to embarkuponthe boundless ocean of eternity, "And now the prize awaits me—thecrownof righteousness that theLord, the righteousJudge,will givemeonthatgreatdayofhisreturn.Andtheprizeisnotjustformebutforallwhoeagerlylookforwardtohisgloriousreturn."

Then,letusrunwithpatience,theracethatissetbeforeus,andsoonweshall reach the goal of immortal blessedness; then shall the glory ofheavengladdenourblissfulsight,andthestreamsofParadiserefreshourwearysouls.Leteveryreaderbeattractedbythegloryofheaven.LethimlooktoableedingSaviorforsalvation,andpressonwardwitheagernesstoreceivethecrownofglorythatfadesnotaway!

THEREST

"ThereremainsthereforearesttothepeopleofGod."Hebrews4:9

"Weseekarestbeyondtheskies,Ineverlastingday;Throughfloodsandflamesthepassagelies,ButJesusguardstheway.Theswellingfloodandragingflame,Hearandobeyhisword;Thenletustriumphinhisname,OurSavioristheLord."

Thereissomethingpeculiarlyattractiveinthedescriptionofheavenasaplace of rest. Here is something that tends powerfully to lead the soulupwards. This fleeting scene of trouble is overlookedwhen the land ofrestisinview.

Heavenisastateofrest-restreservedfortherighteous.Howcheeringistheblessedtruth,"ThereremainsthereforearesttothepeopleofGod."Howdesirable,howdelightfulisresttothewearytraveler;tothosewhoare almost overwhelmed with the cares and anxieties and afflictions,incident to human life! How refreshing to the sons and daughters ofaffliction- to those whose bodies are "chastened with pain"- is theenjoymentofrest.Butwhatistherestofearthtothatofheaven?O,howdelightfulwillitbefortheChristian,afterthestormsoflifetoenterthedesiredhavenofeternalrest!

"Theyweregladwhenitgrewcalm,andheguidedthemtotheirdesiredhaven."Everybelieverwillbeenabledtoshout,ashestepsontheshoresofglory,"Thisismyrestforever!herewillIdwell,forIhavedesiredit."What a rest is here presented to our view, to animate us in our lonelypilgrimage!Arestfromsinandsufferingfromtoilandpain;butnotfrompraise.A rest in the arms of Infinite Love; a rest inAbraham's bosom,withJesus,thesinner'sfriend.Arestperfect,complete,andeternal.Thisis the saint's rest. O blessed rest! where all are resting in eternal love-blooming in eternal joy. Let this attract you. "There the wicked ceasefromtroubling,andtherethewearyareatrest."

You can find no rest in thisworld. To the Christian, life is a continualbattle-field; without are fightings, within are fears. "For we are notfighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evilrulersandauthoritiesof theunseenworld,againstthosemightypowersof darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in theheavenlyrealms."Wearecommandedto"putonthewholearmorofGod,thatwemaybeabletostandagainstthewilesofthedevil;"andexhortedtofightthegoodfightoffaith.ThereisnorestfortheChristianhere;itisabove-inourFather'shouse-inthemansionsofglory.

Howanimating to think thatour rest isnear athand- that ourwarfare

willsoonbeover- thatourpilgrimagewill soonbe ended!Everyday isbringing us nearer our blessed home. That joyful morning will soondawn, when the soldiers of the cross shall honorably lay aside theirweapons, and, with the garlands of victory on their brow, entertriumphantlyuponthatrestwhichremainsforthepeopleofGod.

Howlongandloudwillbethosesongsofvictorythatshallringfromranktorank,throughthatmightyhost,whohavebeenmorethanconquerorsthroughthebloodoftheLamb,andwhoarenowbroughttoenjoysweet,eternalrestinthebosomofGod!HowsweetwillheavenbetothewearyChristianpilgrimwhenhefindshistoilsomejourneyended;whenfromtheheightsofgloryhelooksbackonaworldofsorrowthroughwhichhehaspassed!Totheafflictedsaint,that"rest"willbecomesweeterwhenhereflectsonhispastsufferings.There,hefindsthatallhistearsarewipedaway,andnotonejoyislackinginthepresenceofhisSavior,andinthesmileofhisGod.

Heaven is now presented to us weary pilgrims with this powerfulattraction- Rest. Would you enjoy it? Does your heart aspire afterheaven'sblessed rest? Then believe in Jesus; rest in himnow, and youwill soon rest with him in the Paradise of God. Remember that thispresentworld isnot your rest. "For thisworld isnotourhome;wearelooking forward to our city in heaven, which is yet to come." We arestrangersandpilgrimsontheearth.Thisisnotourhome.WearecomingupfromthewildernesswithourfacesZionward;wearetravelingtothecelestial city. Our path is rough; but the Savior sustains us. Ourpilgrimage lies through awilderness, but faith cheersuswith a viewofthegloriousrestof theredeemed inourFather'shouse- inmansionsofblessedness.

Andhowrevivingtothinkthatfaithshallsoonbeturnedintosight!Letthisconsiderationanimateusamidtheconflictsoflife.Inalittlewhileweshall obtain a joyous entranceupon the rest above.The stormsof life'socean will soon carry us into the haven of peace, where there is notrouble.We shall soon rest with Christ. Then our pilgrimage will haveended, andour eternal rest have begun. From the temple ofGod thereshallbenomoregoingout.There, thesaintsshallenjoy theeverlasting

rest-theSabbathofeternity.Letusbeadmonishedtoseekthesaint'srestnow.Thelanguageofinspirationis,"Getup,goaway!Forthisisnotyourrestingplace,becauseitisdefiled,itisruined,beyondallremedy."

Your Savior, pilgrimChristian, has prepared for you a nobler rest thanthispollutedworld. InhisFather'shouse aremany spaciousmansions,whereyourhappyspirit,aftertastingthebittercupoflife'ssorrow,shallrest in eternal blessedness. No restlessness will be experienced in therealmsofglory.Norsorrow,nortroubleofanykindwillbethere.There,theredeemedrestfromtheirlaborsandcares,anddoubtsandfears,andspiritual conflicts. For them there is an eternal calm- a rest of perfectsatisfactionintheenjoymentofGodtheirSavior.O,whataworldisthat,wherenotawaveoftroubleshallrolloverthesoul,whereallarerestingin theenjoymentofHim,who is "a shelter from thewindanda refugefromthestorm,likestreamsofwaterinthedesert,andtheshadowofagreatrockinahotandwearyland."

Heavenly rest shouldattractus. "Letus, therefore,makeeveryeffort toenter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example ofdisobedience.""Returnuntoyourrest,Omysoul:fortheLordhasdealtbountifullywithyou." Inviewof suchaglorious restbeyond thegrave,wellmayweexclaim, "Blessedare thosewhodie in theLord fromnowon.Yes,saystheSpirit,theyareblessedindeed,fortheywillrestfromalltheirtoilsandtrials;fortheirgooddeedsfollowthem!""ForallwhoenterintoGod's restwill find rest from their labors, just asGod rested aftercreatingtheworld."

BlessedJesus!enablemetorely,withcheerfulhope,onyourdyinglove,untilIreachtheblissfulmansions,andenteruponmyjoyfulrest.

"ThenshallIbathemywearysoul,Inseasofheavenlyrest;AndnotawaveoftroublerollAcrossmypeacefulbreast."

THEEMPLOYMENT

"TheyarebeforethethroneofGodandservehimdayandnightinhistemple."Rev.7:15

"Andtheysanganewsong."Rev.5:9

There ismuch in the employment of heaven to engage our hearts andwarmouraffections.Heavenlyemploymentisthemostdelightfulworkinwhich the soul ever engaged. The redeemed will be filled with ecstasywhileengagedincelestialwork.The'rest'ofheavenwhichwehavebeendescribing,isnotastateofinactivity.O,blessedrest,where"theyrestnotdayandnight,saying,Holy,holy,holy,LordGodAlmighty,whowas,andis,andistocome."

The mansions of glory will be filled with the sweetest melody. Theemployment in which the redeemed in glory are engaged, is one thatshouldattracteverysinner.Itisoneofeverlastingpraiseandadoration.Howdelightful to spend eternity in praisingGod- in contemplating hiswonderful works- in admiring his redeeming love! When all theredeemedarebroughthometoglory,theyshallserveGoddayandnightinhistemple.TheyshallsingthesongofMosesandtheLambthroughagloriouseternity!

In heaven the saints will be meditating on the wonders of creation,providence,andredemption.Therethepower,wisdom,andgoodnessofGod,asmanifestedintheworksofavastuniverse,willbebroughttofullview. In contemplating Jehovah's mighty empire, all those radiantinhabitants of heaven's mansions shall cast their crowns before thethroneofGod,andcry,"Youareworthy,OLordourGod,toreceivegloryand honor and power. For you created everything, and it is for yourpleasurethattheyexistandwerecreated."

Even while on earth, what pleasures are to be derived from thecontemplationofnature.WithwhatdelighthavethemindsofBaconandBoyle,ofNewtonandHerschel, surveyed themagnificenceof creation's

works. But in heaven, the Christian, with a knowledge infinitelysurpassingthatpossessedbyanyoftheseeminentcharacters,shallrangewith exquisite pleasure amid the beauties of Paradise. He shall spendeternal ages in contemplating those wonderful works which anomnipotentarmhasscatteredinendlessvarietyandbeautyaroundhim,and which declare the glory of God, and exhibit his power, wisdom,goodness,andlove.

The beauty of the celestial universe, the charms of science, and thepleasuresofreligion,willforeverattracttheredeemedinglory.Tothosewhohaveaproperestimateof thevalueand importanceofnaturalanddivine knowledge, how attractive does that world appear where all areengaged in contemplating the most delightful subjects that can bepresentedtoanimmortalmind!Inheaven,knowledgewillhavearrivedatperfection.Hereonearth,weseethroughaglassdarkly;there,facetoface. Here, we know but in part; there, we will know even as we areknown.

Inheaven,theprovidenceofGodoverhischurchandpeople,andeveryparticular saint, will be beautifully exhibited, causing each heart toexclaim,"Youhavedoneall thingswell."Butaboveall, redemptionwillbethechiefthemeoftheredeemedbeforethethrone.Thatgloriouswork,executedonCalvarybytheSonofGod,willemploythesoulsofransomedsaintsinholymeditationthroughtheblessedSabbathofeternity!

Withwhatwonder shall thathappymultitude look into thismystery oflovetofallenman–theredemptionofthesoul!WithwhatastonishmentwilltheygazeuponacrucifiedSavior,bearingtheprintofthenailsandofthespearonhisgloriousform.HowwillseraphicloveandgratituderiseinthebosomsofthosewhohavebeenwashedinthebloodofJesus,whentheybeholdHiminthemidstofthethroneastheLambwhowasslainforthem!AcrucifiedJesuswillbe eternallyadmiredas theLambslain fortheredemptionof sinners.Hewill receive thehomageandpraiseof alltheredeemedthrougheternity.Eternityitselfwillbetooshortinwhichtospeakhispraise;ortellhispreciousness,orproclaimthevastnessofhisdyingloveonCalvary!

Thiseverlastingsonginwhichallvoicesshalluniteinmelodiousstrains,willbesungintherealmsofglory:"Worthy!WorthyistheLambwhowasslaintoreceivepower,andriches,andwisdom,andstrength,andhonor,and glory, and blessing! Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, beunto him who sits upon the throne, and unto the Lamb, forever andever!"Inthecontemplationofredemption,thesoulsoftheredeemedwillbelostinwonder,love,andpraise.Howoverpoweringwillbethedisplayofdivinelovethatshallthenshineinthegloriousplanofsalvation!TheeternalloveoftheFather,ingivinghisSon,hisonly-begottenSon,todiefor sinners! The amazing love of the Son, in exchanging the throne ofgloryforthe crossofCalvary!Thewonderful loveof theHolySpirit, inapplyingredemptiontothesoul,willthenappearinfullresplendency!

HowbrightlywillthatlovewhichwasoncemanifestedonCalvaryshinein the habitation of the redeemed, while glorified saints are employingtheirnoblepowersinitssublimecontemplation!Redemptionwillfurnisheternalemployment for theChristian in that brighterworld- his happyhome.Eternalagesofglorycanneverunravelthemysteryofredeeminglove!Redemption is a theme onwhich the soulmay unceasingly dwellwith rapturous delight, and discover brighter and brighter displays ofdivine love and glory to all eternity! How sweet will be the study ofredemption in heaven! "Concerning this salvation, the prophets, whospokeofthegracethatwastocometoyou,searchedintentlyandwiththegreatest care." That glorious salvation which, "is all so wonderful thateven theangels are eagerlywatching these thingshappen,"will everbethedelightfulandsoul-ravishing themeof the redeemed in glory,whileeternalagesrollaway!

The employment of heaven will include in it UNENDING PRAISE.Eternalsongswillresoundthroughthemansionsofglory.Thesaintswillbeemployed inpraisingGod- inadmiring thebeautyandgloryofHimwho died on Calvary for their redemption. One theme, one song willemploy every soul in glory. It is thewondrous theme- the new song ofredemption, that will draw from their lips the loudest notes of praise."Andtheysanganewsongwiththesewords:'Youareworthytotakethescrollandbreakitssealsandopenit.Foryouwerekilled,andyourbloodhasransomedpeopleforGodfromeverytribeandlanguageandpeople

and nation.'" "And they were shouting with a mighty shout, 'SalvationcomesfromourGodonthethroneandfromtheLamb!'""AndtheyweresingingthesongofMoses,andthesongoftheLamb."

Suchisthedelightfulemploymentoftheheavenlyworld.Shouldnotthisblessed work attract you? Do you not long to join with the redeemedaboveinthosecelestialsongsofpraisetohimwhodiedforman?O,then,beentreatedtochoosealovingSaviornow;andthehappyhourwillsoonarrivewhenyoushallraiseyourjoyfulvoiceinglory,andunitewiththeransomedoftheLordinthatsweetsongwhichhasnodyingcadence,andwithwhichthearchesofheavenshallentirelyresound-"Allpraisetohimwholovesusandhasfreedusfromoursinsbysheddinghisbloodforus.Hehasmadeushis kingdomandhis priestswho serve beforeGodhisFather.Givetohimeverlastingglory!Herulesforeverandever!Amen!"

"Oh,holy,holy,holyLord!Whomangelhostsadore;WhenshallIjoininrapturedstrains?Thebrightcelestialchoir?Inpityviewasinfulworm,Aprisonerherebelow;Apilgrimjourneyingthroughtheland,Ofdarkness,sin,andwoe.Tenthousandvoicesroundyourthrone,Uniteinhymnsdivine;'SalvationtotheLamb!'theycry,Ashighinblisstheyshine.FainwouldInowbeginthesong,ToyoumyGodandFriend;Thenminglewiththechoirsabove,Inpraisewhichnevershallend!"

THESOCIETY

"YouhavecometoMountZion,tothecityofthelivingGod,theheavenlyJerusalem, and to thousands of angels in joyful assembly. You havecome to theassemblyofGod's firstbornchildren,whosenames arewritteninheaven.YouhavecometoGodhimself,whois the judgeofallpeople.Andyouhavecometo thespiritsof theredeemed inheavenwhohavenowbeenmadeperfect.YouhavecometoJesus,theonewhomediatesthenewcovenantbetweenGodandpeople,andtothesprinkledblood,which graciously forgives instead of crying out for vengeance asthebloodofAbeldid."Hebrews12:22-24

The society of Immanuel's land forms a principal part of celestialhappiness. Were a saint to be excluded from the society of the uppersanctuary,hecouldnotbehappythoughsurroundedbyallthegloriesofthe heavenly Jerusalem. Heaven is a state of sweet, uninterruptedcommunion.Theretheredeemedwillmeetinblissfulharmony,nomoretoseparate.There,theyshallmeetwiththepeopleofGodwhohavelivedin every age of the world; there they shall converse with those brightangelic beings that never sinned; and there they shall have the blissfulsocietyandgloriouspresenceofHimwhomtheirsoulsloveaboveeverysublunaryobject-theyshallbeforeverwiththeLord.

The contemplationofheavenly society should leadevery reader to seekthehappyshoresofthatworldwherealltheinhabitantsareunitedinonesweetbondofaffectionandlove.WeshallbrieflynoticethePUREANDPERFECT SOCIETY THAT THE REDEEMED ARE TO ENJOYTHROUGHCOUNTLESSAGES,inImmanuel'sland.

1. In heaven, the saints shall have the society of their REDEEMEDBRETHREN of every age and nation. There, we shall sit down withAbraham,IsaacandJacob, inthekingdomofImmanuel.Weshallmeetwiththeexcellentoftheearth.WeshallbeassociatedwithPatriarchsandProphets-withApostles andMartyrs- with all the lovers of the Savior.Andwhatablessedsocietywill thisbe,whereeveryheart is fullof loveandeverytongueflowingwithpraise!

Can a doubt be entertained that the saints will know one another inglory? Surely not. If the disciples knewMoses and Elijah standing on

MountTabor,maywenotexpecttoknowthemtoo,whenstandingontheMountofGod?Paul tells theThessalonians that theyarehishope, andjoy,andcrownofrejoicingatthecomingoftheLord;andwhenhewouldcomfortthosewhoweremourningthelossofpiousfriends,hesetsbeforethemtheblessedhopeofmeetingthemonthatgreatandjoyousmorningwhenthedead inChrist shallburst the fettersof thegraveandarise toimmortality.

Nothingwillbelackingtoperfectthehappinessoftheredeemedinglory.We may then anticipate the most delightful associations- the mostintimate acquaintances. O how delightful will it be to converse withMoses and Elijah, with David and Isaiah, with Paul and the twelveApostles of the Lamb; to hear from their own lips the tale of theirwonderfulhistory!Howjoyfulwillsuchsocietybe!Whenwelandontheshoresofgloryweshallenjoythesocietyofallthosefaithfulambassadorsof thecrossofJesus,whoproclaimedsalvation toadyingworld.Therewe shall be associatedwith suchmen as Luther, Calvin, Baxter, Flavel,Owen, Watts, Doddridge, Edwards, Payson, Chalmers and McCheyne;menwhoweresostronglyattachedtothecauseofChrist,andsoentirelydevotedtohisservice.AlltheransomedoftheLordshalldwelltogetherinonehappyhome!

In thewordofGodheaven is representedasasocial state: "After this Isawagreatmultitude,toogreattocount,fromeverynationandtribeandpeople and language, standing in front of the throne and before theLamb. They were clothed in white and held palm branches in theirhands."We shall have themost endeared society in theworld of glory.Weshallmeetagain,onthepeacefulshore,thosedearfriendswithwhomwe took sweet council together, and went to the house of God incompany,untildeathpartedus.Howjoyfulwillthatmeetingbe,whenweshallmingleagainwithourChristianrelativesintheCelestialSanctuary!"AllwhoarevictoriouswillbecomepillarsintheTempleofmyGod,andtheywillneverhavetoleaveit.AndIwillwritemyGod'snameonthem,andtheywillbecitizens in thecityofmyGod—thenewJerusalemthatcomesdownfromheavenfrommyGod.Andtheywillhavemynewnameinscribeduponthem."

In Immanuel's land, there is no more parting, and there the word"Farewell"neverbreaks theheart.Whataconsolationdoes thisblessedtruthadministertothebereavedChristian!Perhapstheeyesofsucharenowrestingonthese lines; ifso,wesaytoyou,dearreader-"Andnow,brothers and sisters, I want you to know what will happen to theChristianswhohavediedsoyouwillnotbefullofsorrowlikepeoplewhohavenohope.ForsincewebelievethatJesusdiedandwasraisedtolifeagain,wealsobelieve thatwhenJesuscomes,GodwillbringbackwithJesus all the Christians who have died." Be followers of them whothroughfaithandpatience inherit thepromises;andvery soonyouwillreach the peaceful shores of glory, and meet your godly relatives inblissfulharmonyantadoringpraise."Thereforecomfortoneanotherwiththesewords."

2.Inthecelestialworld,thesaintsshallhavethesocietyofholyangels-ANINNUMERABLECOMPANYOFANGELS.Thoseministeringspiritswho watched over our footsteps on earth, will be our companions inglory.Withthemweshalluniteinthecontemplationofredemption,andjoininthepraisesofImmanuel,singinginamightychorus:"TheLambisworthy—the Lamb who was killed. He is worthy to receive power andrichesandwisdomandstrengthandhonorandgloryandblessing."

"AndthenIheardeverycreature inheavenandonearthandundertheearthandinthesea.Theyalsosang: 'Blessingandhonorandgloryandpowerbelong to the one sitting on the throne and to theLamb foreverandever.'"

3. But the crowning bliss of heaven is THE ENJOYMENT OF GOD-Father,Son,andHolySpirit. In thosebright realms,we shall enjoy thesocietyofourHeavenlyFATHER;weshallseehisface."Blessedarethepureinheart,fortheyshallseeGod.""Andtheyshallseehisface;andhisname shall be in their foreheads." This blissful sight and enjoyment ofGodistheperfectionofhappiness-allthatthesouldesires.NoheartcanconceivehowsweetthatcommunionbetweenaholyGodandredeemedsaintswillbeinthemansionsofbliss.There,Godwillhenearhispeopleinapeculiarmanner,toblessthemwithhisgloriouspresence-tocomfortthem with the full assurance of his love, and the eternal smiles of hit

countenance. "I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, 'Look, thehomeofGodisnowamonghispeople!Hewill livewiththem,andtheywillbehispeople.Godhimselfwillbewith them.Hewill removealloftheir sorrows, and there will be nomore death or sorrow or crying orpain.Fortheoldworldanditsevilsaregoneforever.'"

Standingbeforehisthrone,andseeinghisfaceinrighteousness,weshallbeholdthegloriousmanifestationofhisgraceandlovebeaminguponustoalleternity!Whenweentertheportalsofglory,weshallseetheKingofZion inhisbeauty,andbeperfectlyblessed in the fullenjoymentofhisendearingsocietythroughheaven'seternalday.

"ThereshallIseeyoursmilingface,Andnever,neversin,There,fromtheriversofyourgrace,Drink,endlesspleasuresin."

4. The saints shall have the society of CHRIST INGLORY. This is theprincipal attraction of the heavenly world. In those blessed regions,dwellsticgloriousSaviorwithhispeople."Hewhositsonthethronewillliveamongthemandshelterthem."Oh!todwellinthepresenceofhimwholovedusandwashedusfromoursinsinhisownblood!Whatheartcanconceivetheunutterablejoy!ThepresenceofJesusmakestheheavenofthebeliever.ItistheheartfeltdesireofeveryrenewedsoultobewithChrist-toenjoyhissociety.Thesaintsneverfeelthemselveshappyuntilthey are with Him, who is, in their estimate, the chief among tenthousand,andaltogetherlovely.

ThepresenceofJesusistheverycenterofheavenlybliss!Itisthefelicity-the glory of the saints above. In the presence our Immanuel there isfullnessofjoy,andpleasuresforevermore.WhentheChristianmeditatesonthegloriesoftheSavior-whenheconsidersthatthisadorableSaviordied forhim-whenhereflects thathe is soon todwellwithHim in thecourtsofParadise,nowonderthatheshouldsoaronthewingsoffaith,beyond the visions of a mortal scene, and exclaim with the Psalmist,"Whomhave I in heaven but you? I desire youmore than anything on

earth.Myhealthmayfail,andmyspiritmaygrowweak,butGodremainsthestrengthofmyheart;heismineforever!"

Thesweet thoughtof thesocietyofJesus inglorymadePaul longtobedissolved,thathemightbewithhisSavior."Fortome,livingisforChrist,and dying is even better. Yet if I live, that means fruitful service forChrist.Ireallydon'tknowwhichisbetter.I'mtornbetweentwodesires:SometimesIwanttolive,andsometimesIlongtogoandbewithChrist.Thatwouldbefarbetterforme."

The blessed hope of entering into the immediate presence of a lovingSavior,madethemartyrspassthroughflamestotheportalsofbliss;anditwillmakeeveryonewhoknowsandisfullyassuredthathisRedeemerlives,meetdeathwitha smile.When theChristianknows that todie isonlytodepartandbewithChrist,nowonderthatheshouldexclaimwithhis departing breath, in transports of joy, "Come, Lord Jesus, comequickly!"

TheredeemedwilleverenjoythegloriouspresenceandblissfulsocietyoftheLordJesus,inmansionsofendlessfelicity."Soshallweeverbewiththe Lord." "Where I am," says Christ, "there shall alsomy servant be."Andagain,"Father,Iwantthesewhomyou'vegivenmetobewithme,sotheycanseemyglory.Yougavemetheglorybecauseyoulovedmeevenbefore theworld began!" This is heaven, the glorious habitation of theredeemed.

ToenjoysweetcommunionwithaglorifiedSavior, is tobe inastateofperfecthappiness.ThisunspeakableblessednessawaitsallthefriendsofJesusinaworldofglory.Ohappythought!Whenthebrightmorningoftheresurrectionshalldawnuponourenrapturedsouls,weshallbehold,with our bodily eyes, that Savior who once left the realms of bliss andpouredouthispreciousbloodonCalvaryforourredemption!Howlovelyandattractivewillhe thenappearasourRedeemer!Howwillhis gloryshine in the celestial sanctuary! And how will our souls burn withseraphiclove,andriseitadorationandpraisewhenweshallbeholdhimashe is,onhisheavenly throne, radiant inglory;whenweshall seehishands and feet, and side and head, which were once wounded for our

transgressions,andbruisedforouriniquities;whenweshallforeverbaskinthelightofhislife-givingcountenance,andtastethrougheternitythesweetness of his immortal love! What fountains of joy and rivers ofpleasurewillemanatefromhisblissfulpresencetoexhilarateourhappyspiritswhileeternalagesrollon!

Dear believer, in a little while your eyes shall behold the King in hisbeauty,andthegloriouslandthatisafaroff.

"Hail,sovereignlovethatfirstbegan,Theschemetorescuefallenman;Hailmatchlessfreeeternalgrace,Thatgavemysoulahidingplace.AgainsttheGodwhorulesthesky,Ifoughtwithhandupliftedhigh,DespisedthementionofHisgrace,Tooproudtoseekahidingplace.EnwrappedinthickEgyptiannight,Andfondofdarknessmorethanlight,MadlyIranthesinfulrace,Securewithoutahidingplace.Butthustheeternalcounselran,'AlmightyLove,arrestthatman!'Ifeltthearrowsofdistress,AndfoundIhadnohidingplace.Indignantjusticestoodinview,ToSinai'sfierymountIflew,ButJusticecriedwithfrowningface,'Thismountainisnohidingplace!'ErelongaheavenlyvoiceIheard,AndMercy'sangelformappeared.Wholedmeonwithgentlepace,ToJesusChrist,myhidingplace.OnHimAlmightyvengeancefell,Thatmusthavesunkaworldtohell;Heboreitforachosenrace,Andthusbecametheirhidingplace.

Shouldstormsofsevenfoldvengeanceroll,Andshakethisearthfrompoletopole;Noflamingboltcoulddauntmyface,ForJesusismyhidingplace.Afewmorerollingsunsatmost,Shalllandmesafeonheaven'scoast.ThereIshallsingthesongofgrace,ToJesusChrist,myhidingplace!Afewmorerollingsuns,atmost,WilllandyouonfairCanaan'scoast.Thenyoushallsingthesongofgrace,AndseeyourSaviorfacetoface."

THEPERPETUITYOFBLISS

"Andtheyshallreignforeverandever."Rev.22:5.

"Oblestscenesofpermanentdelight!Full,abovemeasure!lasting,beyondbound!Aperpetuityofbliss,isbliss."

ThegloryofImmanuel'slandwillshinewithincreasingsplendorthrougheternity!Theblissofheaveniseternal.Thisstampsaninfinitevalueonall celestial enjoyments. How noble are those pleasures which are toendure forever! Such are the pleasures which are at God's hand. Theynever fade.Forever is attached to everyenjoyment in Immanuel's land.Eternityisthemeasureofthesaint'sbliss."Andtheyshallreignforeverandever."

Thathappylandwhichwehavebeendescribinginthislittlevolumeisaneternalworld. It isan inheritance incorruptibleandundefiled,and thatfadesnot away.Howdifferent from this earthly abode are those brightmansions in our Father's kingdom! How fleeting are the pleasures oftime.Thisworlditself,withallitsgrandeur,ispassingaway.Mutability,

anddecayanddissolutionare indeliblywrittenonallbeneaththeskies.Every object around us feels the withering touch of time, and fadesbeneathitscorrodingenergy.Theproudestmonumentsofantiquityhavecrumbled into dust, and themost powerful nations and cities of otherdayshavebeensweptfromthefaceoftheearth,andoverthemoblivionhangsitsdismalmantle.

ButeternityisinscribedonthegatesofParadise;andaneternalweightofglorycrownsalltheinhabitantsofImmanuel'sland.Theretheywilleverdwell inaneternityofbliss!Owhat ineffabledelightmustspringup inthesoulsoftheredeemedinglory,whentheycontemplateeternity!Howsweetwillthatsolemnwordbetothosehappyspiritsbeforethethrone!Astheylookforwardintotheboundlessocean,theysee-theyfearnoendto their bliss. While ages of glory roll on, their happiness will be unbounded, and eternal. When millions of ages shall have run theirexpansiverounds,theinhabitantsofImmanuel'slandwillstillbeyounginimmortality,andbeforethemwillstillrollaneternityofglory.

ThemansionsofourFather'shouseareeternal.Theblessedness-thejoy-theglory-therest-theemployment-thesociety,ofImmanuel'slandarealso as lasting as eternity itself. Let that solemnword eternity, impressuponyourmindtheimportanceofsalvation.Ifyouaresaved,itiswithaneverlasting salvation; if you are lost, you are lost forever! Said a deardying saint to thewriter, as she gave her parting look, "Think often ofEternity;thatshortword,Eternity!Oh!whatdoesitnotcomprehend?"

Wewouldalsoentreatyouwiththeutmostcompassionforyourimmortalsoul, to "think often of Eternity." Eternity is yours; you are an heir ofimmortality. Youmust soon enjoy a perpetuity of bliss or ofwoe.Obeentreated to forsake theworldand cleave closely to Jesus!Live toHimwholovedyouwithaneverlasting love,andwhendeathshall terminateyourearthly course, the portals of heavenwill open for your reception,and eternity, with all its untold glories will burst upon your ransomedspirit,andyoushallbeeverwiththeLord!

HEAVENLYMEDITATION

"Thereisaplaceofsacredrest,Far,farbeyondtheskies.Wherebeautysmileseternally,Andpleasureneverdies.

O, my soul, rise on the wings of meditation, and survey the glories ofImmanuel's land!Lookbeyondthedimvisionsofmortality-beyondtheswellingsofJordan-beyondthegloomygrave,andbehold,withtheeyeof faith, thosedelectablemountainswherethecityofourGodshines inmore than earthly splendor; andwheremillions of happy saints are toreign inglory,while infinite ages roll away. This is our happy dwellingplace-ourFather's house.Howbrightly those celestialmansions shine,irradiated by the glory of Immanuel! No cloud rests on these peacefuldwellings.Thereallislightandjoy.OurHeavenlyFatheristhere;andinhis gracious smile there is joy unspeakable and full of glory. There weshall rest inAbraham's bosom. There vine shall dwellwith that Friendwho"lovesatalltimes;"-theretheSaviorwillbeinourmidst,torefreshour souls with the glorious manifestations of his eternal love. He willappearinperfectbeautyfromZion'sholyhill.ThereSharon'slovelyrosewillbloomineverlastingday.

"Oh!blessedSpirit,tomyheartThisdearcelestialflowerimpart;WithjoyI'llprizetheSaviorhere,Thengotoheavenandviewhimthere."

In glory, Christ shall appear in all the loveliness of his person andcharacter. The presence ofHimwho loved us, and gave himself for us,willmakeasweet,gloriousheaven indeed.Clad inthespotlessrobesofredeemingrighteousness,weshallfollowtheLambtolivingfountainsofwaters- to perennial streams of pleasures- to boundless oceans of joys;andintheenjoymentoftheSavior'spresenceweshallbeperfectlyhappy.Withinus,allwillbepeace;aroundus,allwillbeglorious. Immanuel'slandisaplaceofunfadingbeauty!Eternalspringbloomsintherealmsof

endlessday.

"Howunlikethisstatebelow!Theretheflowersunwitheringgrow,Therenochillingblastsannoy,Allislove,andbloom,andjoy."

How sweet for the weary Christian pilgrim, while passing through thiswildernessscene,tothinkofthatblessedabode!DearfollowerofJesus,meditate much on heaven- your happy home. Think of the rapturousdelightyoumustexperienceinthecourtsofParadise,whilevasteternityglidesalong!O,what ecstatic joymust reign in the ransomed familyoftheLordwhentheyareadmittedtoseetheKinginhisbeauty;whentheycome to dwell forever in the Paradise of God!With joy anticipate thatglorious hour, when your happy spirit, freed from its clay tabernacle,shalltakeitsflighttothosepureregionsofbliss,whereitshallreceiveacrownofglorythatfadesnotaway.

"Oh,glorioushour,itcomeswithspeed!Whenwe,fromsinanddarknessfreed,ShallseetheGodwhodiedforman,Andpraisehimmorethanangelscan."

Live with heaven always in view. Endeavor to obtain a glimpse of thehappyland,andinalittlewhileyouwillhavereachedtheblissfulcoast.Youwill soon enjoy the refreshing breezes of the saint's rest. One stepmore and you will have gained the happy shores of Immanuel's land,where you shall tread with your Redeemer the ceaseless round ofeternity! In view of such blessedness, who would not exclaim in joyfultones, "Come, Lord Jesus! Come quickly!" O, that the happy hour wascomewhenweshallrestwithJesusintheParadiseofGod!

In the blessed hope of a glorious immortality, let us look beyond thisdyingworld,andgazeonthegloriesofourheavenlyhome,untilhopeisturnedintofruition,andfaithintovision.Letuslongforthesightofthatblissful city- that happy home in which we are to spend a gloriouseternity.

"AndnowI entrust you toGodand thewordofhisgrace—hismessagethatisabletobuildyouupandgiveyouaninheritancewithallthosehehas set apart for himself." Hoping to meet you on the shores ofImmanuel'sland,wheretheLambwhoisinthemidstofthethroneshallfeedus,andleadusuntolivingfountainsofwaters;whereGodshallwipeaway all tears from our eyes; and where we shall sing the song ofredeeminglovethroughcountlessagesofglory.Iwould,untilthen,leaveyou in the tender and compassionate arms of Jesus, the Friend ofSinners.

"Jerusalem!Jerusalem!WouldGodIwerewiththee!Ohthatmysorrowshadanend,YourjoysthatImightsee!Yourwallsaremadeofpreciousstone,Yourbulwarks,diamondsquareYourgatesaremadeofOrientpearl;OGod,thatIwerethere!OhappyharborofGod'ssaints!Osweetandpleasantsoil!Inyounosorrowscanbefound,Nogrief,nocare,notoil.Nodimmingcloudo'ershadowsyou;Nogloomnordarksomenight,Buteverysoulshinesasthesun,ForGodhimselfgiveslight.Lord,inmyforeheadplantyournameAndtakemehenceaway,ThatImaydwellwithyouinbliss,Andsingyourpraiseforaye!Jerusalem!myhappyhome.OhowIlongforthee,Thenshallmylaborshaveanend,WhenonceyourjoysIsee."

Addendum. This much loved poem was extracted from the letters ofSamuelRutherford(apuritanpastorinAnwoth,Scotlandinthe1600's).

IMMANUEL'SLAND

Thesandsoftimearesinking,ThedawnofHeavenbreaks,ThesummermornI'vesighedfor,Thefairsweetmornawakes:Dark,darkhasbeenthemidnight,Butdayspringisathand,Andglory-glorydwellethInImmanuel'sland.

Oh!wellitisforever,Oh!wellforevermore,MynesthunginnoforestOfallthisdeath-doomedshore:Yes,letthevainworldvanish,Asfromtheshipthestrand,Andglory-glorydwellethInImmanuel'sland.

TheretheRedRoseofSharonUnfoldsitsheartsomebloom,AndfillstheairofHeavenWithravishingperfume.Oh!tobeholditblossom,WhilebyitsfragrancefannedWhereglory-glorydwellethInImmanuel'sland.

TheKingthereinHisbeauty,Withoutaveil,isseen,Itwereawell-spentjourney,Thoughsevendeathslaybetween.TheLamb,withHisfairarmy,

DoesonMountZionstand,Andglory-glorydwellethInImmanuel'sland.

Oh!ChristHeistheFountain,Thedeepsweetwelloflove!ThestreamsonearthI'vetasted,MoredeepI'lldrinkabove:There,toanoceanfullness,Hismercydoesexpand,Andglory-glorydwellethInImmanuel'sland.

EvenAnwothwasnotheaven;EvenpreachingwasnotChrist;Andinmysea-beatprisonMyLordandIheldtryst:Andayemymurkieststorm-cloudWasbyarainbowspannedCaughtfromtheglorydwellingInImmanuel'sland.

ButthatHebuiltaheavenOfHissurpassinglove,AlittleNewJerusalem,Liketotheoneabove,-"Lord,takemeo'erthewater,"Hadbeenmylouddemand,"Takemetolove'sowncountry,UntoImmanuel'sland."

Butflowersneednight'scooldarknessThemoonlightandthedew;SoChrist,fromonewholovedit,Hisshiningoftwithdrew;Andthenforcauseofabsence,MytroubledsoulIscanned-

Butglory,shadeless,shinethInImmanuel'sland.

ThelittlebirdsofAnwothIusedtocountthemblest,Now,besidehappieraltarsIgotobuildmynest:O'erthesetherebroodsnosilence,Nogravesaroundthemstand,Forglory,deathless,dwellethInImmanuel'sland.

FairAnwothbytheSolway,Tomethousillartdear!E'enfromthevergeofHeavenIdropfortheeatear.Oh!ifonesoulfromAnwothMeetmeatGod'srighthand,MyHeavenwillbetwoHeavens,InImmanuel'sland.

I'vewrestledontowardHeaven,'Gainststorm,andwind,andtide,Now,likeawearytraveler,Thatleanethonhisguide,Amidtheshadesofevening,Whilesinkslife'sling'ringsand,IhailtheglorydawningFromImmanuel'sland.

Deepwatercrossedlife'spathway,Thehedgeofthornswassharp;Nowtheselieallbehindme,Oh!forawell-tunedharp!Oh!tojoinHallelujahwithyontriumphantband,Whosing,whereglorydwelleth,

InImmanuel'sland.

WithmercyandwithjudgmentMyweboftimeHewove,AndayethedewsofsorrowWerelusteredwithHislove.I'llblessthehandthatguided,I'llblesstheheartthatplanned,WhenthronedwhereglorydwellethInImmanuel'sland.

SoonshallthecupofgloryWashdownearth'sbitterestwoes,Soonshallthedesert-briarBreakintoEden'srose.Thecurseshallchangetoblessing,Thenameonearththat'sbanned,BegravenonthewhitestoneInImmanuel'sland.

Oh!IammyBeloved's,AndmyBelovedismine!HebringsapoorvilesinnerIntoHis"Houseofwine."IstanduponHismerit,Iknownootherstand,Note'enwhereglorydwellethInImmanuel'sland.

IshallsleepsoundinJesusFilledwithHislikenessrise,ToliveandtoadoreHim,ToseeHimwiththeseeyes'TweenmeandresurrectionButParadisedoesstand;Then,thenforglorydwellingInImmanuel'sland!

TheBrideeyesnothergarmentButherdearBridegroom'sface;Iwillnotgazeatglory,ButonmyKingofGrace,NotatthecrownHegiveth,ButonHispiercedhand:TheLambisallthegloryOfImmanuel'sland.

Ihavebornescornandhatred,Ihavebornewrongandshame,Earth'sproudoneshavereproachedme,ForChrist'sthriceblessedname,WhereGodissealsetfairestThey'vestampedtheirfoulestbrand;ButjudgmentshineslikenoondayInImmanuel'sland.

They'vesummonedmebeforethem,ButthereImaynotcome,MyLordsays,"Comeuphither,"MyLordsays,"WelcomeHome!"MykinglyKing,atHiswhitethrone,Mypresencedoescommand,Whereglory-glorydwellethInImmanuel'sland.

WanderingsofaPilgrim

This World a Wilderness, and theChristianaPilgrim

PREFACE

ThedesignofthisessayistocontemplatetheChristian'sjourneythroughthewildernessof thisworld to abetter land, even theHeavenly Canaan– to point out, briefly, the way bywhich theCaptainofourSalvationleadshisfollowerstoglory.Ithasbeenthegrandobjectoftheauthortomakethereaderfeelthatheisastrangerandapilgrimonearth–tomakehimrealizethesolemntruth, thataman's life isvanity; thathisdaysareasa shadowwhich passes away; that mutability and dissolution are thecharacteristics of all sublunary objects; that, "All, on earth, isshadow;allbeyondissubstance."

Whenwe lookat thebrevityandvanityofhuman life,wemaywellexclaim,inthebeautifulandtouchingreflectionofEdmundBurke, "What shadowswe are, andwhat shadowswepursue!"AndinthesimilarimpressivelanguageofPatrickHenry,"lambutapoorwormofthedust,asfleetingandunsubstantialastheshadowofthecloudthatfliesoverthefields,andisrememberednomore!"Orwemayratheropen thepagesofHolyWrit,andsay,with the wisest ofmen, "Vanity of vanities; all is vanity;"andwith other inspired penmen, "As forman, his days are asgrass; as a flower of the field so he flourishes; for the windpassesoverit,anditisgone;andtheplacethereofshallknowitnomore.""Forwhatisyourlife?Itisevenavapor,thatappearsforalittletime,andthenvanishesaway."

Amidtheexcitementandbustleofabusyworld,itistobefearedthat the Christian too often forgets his true character as a

pilgrim,journeyingtomansionsofgloryintheskies.Tooaptishetoplacehisaffectionsuponthoseterrestrialobjectsbywhichhe is surrounded in his pilgrimage.How often is this the casewiththeyoungChristian,overwhomtheworld,withitsdelusivepleasures,exercisessuchafascinatingpower.Theauthorwouldearnestly and affectionately entreat the young reader to pausewiththissolemnreflection,'Iambutatravelerhere.'Rememberthat you are passing rapidly through a scene of shadows anddeath toa stateofeternal realities.O, then,webeseechyou tolive, as God's dear children, above the world, with your eyedirectedtothatblessedhomeinyourHeavenlyFather'sHouse,where the wicked shall cease from troubling, and where thewearyareatrest.

Should the few plain words here written be the means ofinducinganytopassthetimeoftheirsojourninghereinthefearofGod-ofpersuadingthemtoliveandwalkbyfaithinChrist–torely,entirely,onhisatoningbloodforsalvation–theauthorwilldesirenootherrewardthanthehappinessofknowingthathehasbeenanhumbleinstrumentinthehandofGod,fordoinggood.

This essay is now cast, as a mite into the treasury of Biblicalliterature, and commended to the blessing of Heaven. May itcheertheChristianpilgrimashejourneysthroughthisworldofsin and sorrow, and lead him to strivemore earnestly for theglory,honor,andimmortalityofheaven–tocleavemorecloselytoJesus,andtolabormorezealouslyinhiscause,sothat,whenhe comes to pass the valley of life hemay enter the abodes ofimmortal glory, and receive the Savior's plaudit and welcome,"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithfulwithafewthings;Iwillputyouinchargeofmanythings.Comeandshareyourmaster'shappiness!""ThentheKingwillsaytothose on the right, 'Come, youwho are blessed bymy Father,inherittheKingdompreparedforyoufromthefoundationoftheworld.'"Matthew25:34

This World a Wilderness, and theChristianaPilgrim

Forwearestrangersbeforethee,andsojourners,aswereallourfathers:ourdaysontheearthareasashadow,andthereisnoneabiding.1Chron.29:15

We are here for only a moment, visitors and strangers in thelandasourancestorswerebeforeus.Ourdaysoneartharelikeashadow,gonesosoonwithoutatrace.1Chron.29:15

We are aliens and strangers in your sight, as were all ourforefathers.Ourdaysoneartharelikeashadow,withouthope.1Chron.29:15

Beyond this darksome valley of tears and death there lies abrightand joyous region of immortality,whereweary pilgrimsmeettostraynomore.Inthathappylandtheirwanderingswillhave forever terminated,andtheyshall sitdown ineverlastingrepose under the delightful shadow of the Tree of Life, in themidst of the paradise of God, and enjoy, through the blissfulagesofglory,thepresenceandsmilesofthatFriendandSaviorwho, in the tenderest love for them, once poured out his ownmost precious blood on Calvary, that he might present them,faultless,beforethethroneofHeaven!

OhowtranscendentlygloriousmustbethefutureeternalhomeoftheChristianpilgrim!Onthosegoldenplainsbeyondtheriverof death, rays of divine glory are beaming in full effulgence.There, the Sun ofRighteousness is shining in all hismeridiansplendor,makingeternityoneconstantnoontideofuntoldandindescribable glory and blessedness– a day without clouds.There,ourImmanuelshallbeasthe"lightofthemorningwhenthesunrises,evenamorningwithoutclouds."

Eternal daywill dawnwithout a cloud. No gloom or darknesswilleveroverspread thoseblissful realmsbeyond theshoresoftime.ThecelestialworldwillalwaysbeirradiatedbythegloryofGodandtheLamb,andtheredeemedshall foreverbask inthegladsome sunshine of Infinite Love. In that bright home ofpilgrims, the Savior will conduct his ransomed ones to livingfountains of waters– streams of immortal joys, and God shallwipeawayalltears.InthepresenceofJesusthereisfullnessofjoy;athisrighthandtherearepleasuresforevermore.Eyehasnotseen,norearheard,norhasthehumanhearteverconceivedthosethingswhichGodhaspreparedforthosewholovehim.

An exceeding and eternal weight of glory will crown everypilgrimwhohasfoundthehappyshoresofImmanuel'sLand.InthePalaceoftheKingofkings,allwillbeperfectlyblessed,andfrom that "building ofGod, that house notmadewith hands,"there shall benomoregoingout;butwe shall foreverbewiththe Lord, beholding his glory and enjoying the soul-ravishingmanifestationsofhis endearing love.O,happyabodeofZion'spilgrims!O,sweetandpleasantworld,wherethebalmyzephyrsofHeavenrefreshthewearysoul;wherethereflowsnotatear;where there enters not a pain; where death itself shall beswallowedup invictory!This is theheritageof thosewho feartheLord.

ButbeforeourfeetstandontheblissfulshoresoftheheavenlyCanaan,wehave to pass through aWILDERNESS scene. Thisworld is that wilderness, where Zion's pilgrims wander untiltheyaretakenhometoglory.Itisathornypathwaythatleadstotherealmsofeternalday;but,bythegraceofGod,theChristianis enabled to hold on the good way with joy, until he passesthroughthewildernessandoverJordan,morethanaconquerorthroughJesus,andtakesuphisseraphicsongoftriumphamidtheundyingsplendorsofimmortality.

In this little volume it is our design, as has been stated. tocontemplate the Christian in his pilgrimage to the promised

land-thehappyhomeofall the true followersofJesus. In thischaptertherearetwoprominentideaswhichrecurinourmind,andwhichdeserveourseriousconsideration.First,Thisworldisawilderness.Second,TheChristianisapilgrimhere.

I.THISWORLDISAWILDERNESSToeverychildofGodthisworld,withallitsconceivedpleasures,is nothing but a wilderness– far from his Father's House; farfromthatgoodly landwhichhesoardently longstoseeandtopossess.Thisistheviewwhicheverysainttakesofearth;anditisajustone.WhatthewildernesswastothechildrenofIsraelintheirjourneytothepromisedland,thisdecayingsceneistothebeliever inhisprogressheavenward. It isnothis rest; it isnothis home.On the contrary, it is awildernessworld of trouble,from which he is coming up out of, and traveling to themansions above. The dark, rugged pathway lies throughimminent dangers and difficulties, which sometimes rise likemountainsbefore theChristianpilgrim,and threaten to retardhismarchtothelandofimmortality.

ButitisablessedconsolationtoknowthatJesusguardsthewaytoMountZion;thathewillallownoevil tobefallus;thatevenhere,inthisvalleyoftears,allthingsshallworktogetherforourgood.Thesorrowsandbereavementsof liferenderthisearthatryingwildernessworldtothechildofGod.Here, thewindsofadversityandfloodsofsorrowsweepalongourpath,makinguslongtoreachtheblissfulhillOfZion,where"nochillingblastsannoy," where all is blooming with immortal love and peace.Here on earth, we are almost constantly distressed withdifficulties, cares, pains, and griefs, which render this awearyland–"alandofdesertsandofpits,alandofdrought,andoftheshadowofdeath."

It is SIN that makes this world a wilderness to the saint. Onaccountof thesin inhisheart,heoften faints, and is ready todie;hefeelsthatthisisindeedavalleyofweeping,andlongsto

arrive at the borders of thewilderness, that hemay cross intoCanaan. Besides all this, he has to encounter, in his journey,violent opposition from an ungodly, persecuting world. Thismakes him cry out, with the Psalmist, "How I suffer amongthese scoundrels of Meshech! It pains me to live with thesepeoplefromKedar!Iamtiredoflivinghereamongpeoplewhohatepeace."Intheworld,therearefightingswithout,andfearswithin.Howunlikethisdarkabodeofsinandmiseryarethoseradiantmansions far beyond the starry sky! There the wickedceasefromtroubling,andtherethewearyareatrest.

2. THE CHRISTIAN IS A PILGRIMHERE

He has only a temporary residence in this valley of tears; hisabiding home is in that world "wheremomentary ages are nomore." Now he is on his journey to those tearless, blissfulregions where he is to spend the ceaseless, revolving ages ofeternity.WhenthechildrenofIsraelwereinthewilderness,theyhadnopermanentresidence,butwerecontinuallyrovingaboutfromplacetoplace;journeyingtothatgoodlylandwhichflowedwithmilkandhoney,andwhichwasthenthegloryofalllands;"For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land offlowingstreamsandpoolsofwater,withspringsthatgushforthin the valleys and hills. It is a land of wheat and barley, ofgrapevines, fig trees, pomegranates, olives, and honey. It is alandwherefoodisplentifulandnothingislacking."

Sothebelieverisapilgrimonearth,withnocontinuingcity,norcertainplaceofabode,travelingthroughadrearywildernesstothatcitywhichshinesinthehighestnoonofglory;tothatlandofblessednessandimmortality,whereperennialstreamsofblississuefromtheeternalFountainofLifetorefreshthewearysoul,andwherewemayfreelyeatofthefruitoftheTreeofLife,inthemidstoftheparadiseofGod.Howimpressiveisthelanguageof

MosestoHobab,inthewilderness:"Wearejourneyinguntotheplace of which the Lord said, I will give it you." The hosts ofIsrael, instead of making their abode in the waste howlingwilderness,weremarchingforwardtoobtainpossessionofthatlandwhichtheLord"sworeuntotheirfathers,Abraham,Isaac,andJacob,togiveuntothemandtotheirseedafterthem."

Like those ancient pilgrims,we have a promised land in view,andonwardisourmotto.Insteadofseekingourhomeandourhappiness in a perishing world, we are pressing on to thatgloriouskingdomwhichJesus, inhisboundless love, has goneto prepare for our reception, and which he has promised tobestowonallthosewholovehim;forhesays:"Iconferonyouakingdom, just asmy Father conferred one onme, so that youmayeatanddrinkatmytableinmykingdomandsitonthrones,judging the twelve tribesof Israel."Andagain; "Fearnot, littleflock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you thekingdom."SotheChristianpilgrim,animatedbysuchpreciouspromises, has good hope, through grace, of gaining the happyshores of Canaan; of possessing the heavenly inheritance– ofmakinghiseternalabodeinthecourtsofParadise;andofsittingdown with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, at the banquet ofredeeminglove,inthekingdomofGod.

Withsuchgloriousprospectsinview,nowonderthatheshouldlookuponearthasabarren,homelessworld;thatheshouldfeellike a stranger and sojourner in it. No wonder that he shouldspeed his earthly flight to reach the blissful skies. We areentreatedbyacompassionateSaviortoseekthebettercountry.Inthewilderness,thedivineinjunctiontothechildrenofIsraelwastomarchforwardtothelandofpromiseland.TheLordsaidtoMoses,"NowthatyouhavebroughtthesepeopleoutofEgypt,leadthemtothelandIsolemnlypromisedAbraham,Isaac,andJacob.I toldthemlongagothatIwouldgive this landto theirdescendants."

The same solemn command, reminding us of our short

pilgrimageonearth,issoundinginourears.Itistheentreatingvoiceof theSavior, callinguponus to forsake thispresent evilworld,andseekourportioninthefairrealmsofeternalday.Itisa voice of compassion and love that says to us, "Arise, anddepart; for this present world is not your rest. Seek first thekingdomofGod,andhis righteousness."TheChristianpilgrimobeysthedivineinjunction;setsforwardonhisjourney; leavestheworld, looksbeyondthisdyingscene,gazesonthecelestialCanaan,until its gloriesbeamuponhis soul, until hebreathesthepureatmosphereoftheupperworld,untilhisearhearsthegloriousmelodyofheavenandhiseyecatchesaglimpseof thekinginhisbeauty,andofthelandthatisafaroff.

O says theweary pilgrim, as onward he journeys with his eyedirectedtowardstheheavenlyCanaan.Inyondergloriousworldismyrestandabidinghome.Yes–"Thereismyhouseandportionfair;Mytreasureandmyheartarethere,Andmyabidinghome;Formemyelderbrethrenstay,Andangelsbeckonmeaway,AndJesusbidsmecome!"

TheChristianconfessesthatheisapilgrimhere.AllthechildrenofZion-allwhohaveevertraveledtotheCanaanonhigh,haveacknowledged that they were strangers and pilgrims in thiswildernessworld.Ofthoseancientworthieswhodiedinfaith-inthebrighthopeof ablessed immortalitybeyond thedarksomegrave, and who are held up in the precious volume ofinspiration,forourimitationintheChristianlife–itissaid,they"confessedthattheywerestrangersandpilgrimsontheearth."To this land of shadows and of death, their views were notconfined.No.Theylookedhigherthanearth."Theywerelookingforabetterplace,aheavenlyhomeland.ThatiswhyGodisnotashamedtobecalledtheirGod,forhehaspreparedaheavenlycity for them." Of Abraham, it is said, "And even when hereachedthelandGodpromisedhim,helivedtherebyfaith—for

hewas like a foreigner, living in a tent. And so did Isaac andJacob,towhomGodgavethesamepromise.Abrahamdidthisbecausehewasconfidentlylookingforwardtoacitywitheternalfoundations,acitydesignedandbuiltbyGod."

The earthly Canaan was but a type of the heavenly; andtherefore the patriarchs, overlooking the passing scenes of asublunaryworld,elevatedtheirviewstothetruelandofpromisebeyondtheskies.Incontemplatinghispresentstate,eachchildofGod is ready to exclaimwith thePsalmist,when addressinghisHeavenlyFatherinearnestprayer,"Hearmyprayer,OLord!Listen tomy cries for help!Don't ignoremy tears. For I am astrangerwithyou—atravelerpassing through,asmyancestorswerebeforeme."Hisfeelingswithregardtoearthlyobjectsarebeautifully expressed in the glowing language of the Christianpoet–

"NothingonearthIcallmyown;Astrangertotheworld,unknown,IalltheirgoodsdespiseItrampleontheirwholedelight,Andseekacityoutofsight,Acityintheskies!NotafootoflanddoIpossess;Nocottageinthiswilderness:Apoor,wayfaringman;Ilodgeawhileintentsbelow,Orgladlywandertoandfro,TillImyCanaangain!"

Thus the Christian pursues his journey and pitches his tentnearerandnearerCanaan,untilhereachesthebanksofJordan,where some appointed herald of glory is ready to conduct hishappyspirittothebosomofAbraham-tothemansionsofrest-totheparadiseofGod.

Thebeliever'slifeisaPROGRESSIVEone.Allthetruefollowers

ofJesusaredailyadvancingintheirjourneytowardstherealmsof peace. They go on, from strength to strength, through thiswildernessscene,untileveryoneofthemappearsbeforeGodinthecelestialZion.Theirearnestandcontinuedendeavorsaretoget nearerHeaven, to become ripe for glory; hence, forgettingthe things which are behind, and reaching forth unto thosewhicharebefore,theypresstowardthemarkfortheprizeofthehighcallingofGod inChristJesus.Theyarenotsatisfiedwiththeirpresent life in thewilderness. It has but little attractionsfor them. They are not conformed to the world. They do notthink of making their abode in this valley of weeping; butonward they travel towards the land of Canaan- that pleasantregion which lies beyond the Jordan of death. Their course isupward.

"AllChristians,"saysthepiousMcCheyne,"arecomingupoutofthewilderness. Sabbath days are likemilestones-marking ourway.EveryrealChristianismakingprogress.Ifthesheepareontheshoulderoftheshepherd,theyarealwaysgettingnearerthefold.With some, the shepherd takes long steps. Dear friends,youshouldbeadvancing,gettinghigher,nearertoCanaan,riperfor glory. In the south ofRussia, the country is of vast plains,rising by steppes. Dear friends, you should get on to a higherplace,upanotherstepeverySabbathday.Intraveling,youneverthinkofmakingahouse inthewilderness.So,dearfriends,donot take up your rest here; we are journeying. Let all yourendeavorsbetogetoninyourjourney."

Wewouldearnestly inviteyou,gentle reader, toaccompanyusin our pilgrimage to the heavenly country.We would beseechyou, with the utmost compassion for your immortal soul, toforsakethepathofdeath,andfollowthewayoflife-thewaytoundying glory and felicity. In a word, we would mostaffectionatelysaytoyouasMosesdidtoHobab,"WeareonourwaytothePromisedLand.Comewithusandwewill treatyouwell, for the Lord has given wonderful promises to Israel!"Numbers10:29

CommencementoftheChristian'sJourney-DifficultiesintheWay

"...where they strengthened the believers. They encouragedthem to continue in the faith, reminding them that theymustenterintotheKingdomofGodthroughmanytribulations."Acts14:22

"LetusadorethegracethatseeksTodrawourheartsabove!Attend,'tisGodtheSaviorspeaks,Andeverywordislove."

Nomanbegins the journey to theheavenlyhome,until by thegracious influence of the Holy Spirit, his soul is attracted toChrist, the LivingWay, the Truth, and the Life. At that happyhour when the heart is opened, and the understandingenlightened to discern spiritual things, the Savior's love is thefirst to beam in mild, sweet, constraining influence upon thesoul of the renewed man. He wonders that he was not ablebefore to discern the beauty, the excellence and glory ofImmanuel.Now, Jesus appears to him as the chief among tenthousand, and altogether lovely. Now, he is ready to exclaim,"Mybelovedismine,andIhis.WhomhaveIinheavenbutyou?ThereisnoneuponearththatIdesirebesidesyou."

Thus enlightened by divine grace, the pilgrim turns from theCity of Destruction to the Heavenly Mansions. He leaves thecrowded road which leads to eternal darkness and woe, andentersonthenarrowpathwaythatconductsthewearytravelertorealmsof lightandbliss.ThestarofBethlehemishisguide;thepromisesofGod'sword,his rodand staff; andheaven,hiseverlasting,happyhome.Hisviewsarenowelevatedabovethedecaying objects around him. His affections are placed upon

things above. He contemplates with rapturous delight thebleeding glories of Immanuel, and the shining abode of Zion'spilgrimsinthecelestialkingdom.HeisrisenwithJesus.

Hehasbecomeaspirituallymindedman.HelivesandwalksbyfaithintheSonofGod.Thoughintheworld,heisnolongerofit; but belongs to the kingdom of Jesus Christ. As an heir ofglory,asatravelertotheskies,asanexpectantofeternalbliss,helooksaboveandbeyondthetroublesomescenesofafleetingpilgrimage. He enjoys the charming and sublime prospectbeyondtheprecinctsoftime!Hebeholdsinthatbrighterworld,anoceanofglory,withoutashore,andwithoutastorm!AstheChristianpursueshisjourney,withhiseyefixedonthesolemnrealitiesofeternity,earthandsublunarygrandeurappeartohimas transitory as the morning cloud and early morning dew,compared with those immeasurable ages of bliss, which rollbeforehistransportedvision.

A traveler on his journey, loves to cherish the endearingthoughtsofhomeanddomestichappiness.Nothingissodeartohiminallhiswanderingsasthefiresideofhisfathers–thelandofhisbirth.Inlikemanner,hewhohasbeenconstrained,bytheSavior'slove,tobegintheblessedjourneyfromthewildernessofthisworld to the heavenlyCanaan,will delight tomeditate ontherichesandgloryofhisFather'shouse,inthepure,uncloudedrealmsofeternalday.TheJerusalemabovewillbedearertohimthananyearthlyobject.Hislanguagewillbe:"IfIforgetyou,OJerusalem,letmyrighthandforgetitsskillupontheharp.Maymy tongue stick to the roof ofmymouth if I fail to rememberyou,ifIdon'tmakeJerusalemmyhighestjoy."Ineverystageofhispilgrimage, theChristian loves to thinkof that better land,histrue,abidinghome,whereheshallsingtriumphantsongsofpraisetohisRedeemer,andhisGod.

We have thus hinted at the pleasing viewwhich opens to himfrom whose eyes the scales of unbelief leave fallen- who isenabledtolookateternalthingsinthelightofGod'sword;and

who has set out upon the Christian's journey, to the celestialcity.Weshallnownoticeafewofthedifficultieswhichlieinthewaytoglory;fornosoonerdoesthepilgrimenteronthepathofthe just, than he meets with obstacles. We mention threesourcesfromwhichtheChristianmayexpecttomeetwithgreatoppositioninfightingthegoodfightoffaith.

1.THEWORLDTheworldwithitssinfulpleasuresandenjoymentsiscalculatedto captivate the affections, enchain the heart, and impede thepilgrim'sprogress to the heavenly rest.A thousand fascinatingcharmsarethrownaroundhispathwaythroughthisbewilderingworld. Incityand incountry;on landandonsea-everywhere,the soldierof the cross is surroundedby spiritual dangers anddifficulties.

"Yet,theclearpathtoyourabode,Liesthroughthishorridland;Lord,wewouldtracethedangerousroad,Andrunatyourcommand."

Loveoftheworldisonegreatmeansofretardingourjourneytothe skies. O, howmany have turned aside from following theblessed Jesus by placing all their affections upon this present,fleetingscene,whichinaveryfewyearsatmost,willprofitthemnothing! "Demas has forsaken me, having loved this presentworld."

See to it,Christian, thatyoudonot love theworld.By faith inthe cross of Christ, and the bleeding glories of Calvary; thisworldwithallitsrichesandhonorswillbecomeadimanddyingobjectinyourview."Then,pilgrim,letyourjoysandfearsOntimenolongerlean;ButhenceforthallyourhopesandfearsFromearth'saffectionswean."

Obeythewarningvoiceofmercyifyouwouldreachtheblissfulshore:"Stoplovingthisevilworldandallthat itoffersyou,forwhenyoulovetheworld,youshowthatyoudonothavetheloveoftheFatherinyou."NotwithstandingtheChristian'sendeavorsto live above the world, and near to God, how often is hecompelled to cry outwith the Psalmist: "My soul cleaves untothedust:quickenmeaccordingtoyourword.""Fromearth,andallitsemptyjoys,BlestJesus,setMefree;Howvaintheworldling'sgildedtoys,Comparedwithheavenandthee!Youaremyhope,myway,mybliss;Myglory,andmycrown;Descend,OblessedPrinceofPeace,Andmakemyheartyourthrone."

We must expect to meet with OPPOSITION FROM ANUNBELIEVINGWORLD.Thosewhohavetheirpartandportionhere do not love those who have chosen a better inheritanceabove.Theworldhatesa true followerof theLamb!Jesuswashimself the object of their hatred. No wonder then that hisfollowersshouldmeetwiththesamereceptionfromunbelievers.TheSaviorsaystohisdisciples:"Ifyoubelongedtotheworld,itwould love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to theworld,butIhavechosenyououtof theworld.That iswhytheworldhatesyou."Ithasbeentrulysaidthatifwearefaithful,wemustindeedexpectreproach;ifweboldlyconfessChristbeforemen,andsteadilymaintainthatmarkeddistinctionwhichformsthe line of separation between the church and the world, wemustsubmittohaveournamescastoutasevil.

2.THEDEVILThe Christian pilgrim will meet with opposition from Satan."Forwearenotfightingagainstpeoplemadeoffleshandblood,butagainst theevil rulersandauthoritiesof theunseenworld,against thosemighty powers of darkness who rule this world,andagainstwickedspiritsintheheavenlyrealms."Theinspired

writersgiveusdirectionshowwearetomeetandvanquishthisarchenemyofsouls."Becareful!WatchoutforattacksfromtheDevil, yourgreat enemy.Heprowlsaround likea roaring lion,looking for some victim to devour. Take a firm stand againsthim,andbestronginyourfaith.Remember thatChristiansallovertheworldaregoingthroughthesamekindofsufferingyouare.""Resistthedevil,andhewillfleefromyou"."Afinalword:Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God'sarmorsothatyouwillbeabletostandfirmagainstallstrategiesandtricksoftheDevil.UseeverypieceofGod'sarmortoresisttheenemyinthetimeofevil,sothatafterthebattleyouwillstillbestandingfirm.Putonsalvationasyourhelmet,andtaketheswordoftheSpirit,whichisthewordofGod.Prayatall timesandoneveryoccasion in thepowerof theHolySpirit."Letusfollow this advice, and we shall win a glorious victory, andreceiveanimmortalcrown.TheGodofpeaceshallbruiseSatanunderourfeetshortly.

In the arms of Jesus we shall be safe, eternally safe from theattacksofoursubtleadversary.Satanwillneverbeabletoplucka single believing soul from the hands of an Almighty Savior!Animatedby such a consideration, let us press forward in ourpilgrimage, armedwith the panoply ofHeaven; and in a littlewhile the Satanic conflict will be over; then we shall take upsweet,unendingsongsoftriumphinthathappyplace,wherethewickedceasefromtroubling,andwherethewearyareatrest.

3.THEFLESHAnother enemy,withwhich theChristianwill have to contenduntilthismortallifeshallhaveputonimmortality,istheflesh.As the believer is never perfectly sanctified in this life, theremainsofcorruptioninhisheartmustbeasourceofcontinualannoyancetohimincomingupfromthewildernesstothelandof perfection and bliss.Here, the flesh lusts against the spirit,and the spirit against the flesh.TheCanaanites are still in theland;andthesoldierof thecrossmustbealwaysonhisguard,lesttheysurpriseandovercomehim.

"The remainders of corruption require continual watchfulnessand caution, lest they increase and regain their formerpossessionoftheheart.Sinstilldwellinginthebeliever,causesthatwarfare,whichmust never cease until this body is laid inthegrave,nevermoretoharmthedisembodiedspirit,encircledwithheavenlyglory."Howoftenhastheremainingdepravityofthehumanheartmadethegoodmanweepandbend,asunderan unendurable load, and long to be freed from the bitterthraldomofsinfulflesh!ThismadePaulcryoutinthebitternessofhissoul,"Oh,whatamiserablepersonIam!Whowillfreemefrom this life that is dominated by sin?" But almost with thesamebreathheexclaims,asheseestheGreatDeliverer,"ThankGod!TheanswerisinJesusChristourLord."

Here, then, is our strength and deliverance. Jesus is thesalvationof Israel. InHimwe shall obtain complete dominionover the corruptions of our nature. How reanimating to hearthatsweetpromisewhisperedinourears,whilewearestillinanenemy's land," My gracious favor is all you need. My powerworksbestinyourweakness."SonowIamgladtoboastaboutmyweaknesses, so that thepowerofChristmaywork throughme."

Then, ifwewouldovercomeall thedifficultieswhich lie inourpathwaytoimmortalbliss- ifwewouldreachthehappyshoresofImmanuel'sLand-letusfollowtheadviceoftheApostle."Thenight isnearlyover; theday isalmosthere.So letusputasidethe deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let usbehave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies anddrunkenness, not in sexual immorality anddebauchery, not indissensionandjealousy.Rather,clotheyourselveswiththeLordJesusChrist,anddonotthinkabouthowtogratifythedesiresofthesinfulnature."

Whataglorious reward isheld forth tohimwho is true to thecause of Christ throughout his pilgrimage on earth! "Remain

faithfulevenwhenfacingdeath,andIwillgiveyouthecrownoflife." O what unutterable bliss awaits the faithful follower ofJesusinthateternal,gloriousworldtowardwhichtheyaredailyadvancing!

AndhowmuchisthereintheHolyScripturestoanimateusinstruggling amid the sorrows and conflicts of the Christiancourse!TheytellusthatalltherichesandgloriesoftheheavenlyCanaanaretobeenjoyedthroughtheceaselessagesofeternity,by those who have overcome by the blood of the Lamb. Thecheering languageof theSavior is– "Tohimwhoovercomes, Iwill give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in theparadiseofGod.""Hewhoovercomeswillnotbehurtatallbytheseconddeath.""Tohimwhoovercomes,Iwillgivesomeofthehiddenmanna.Iwillalsogivehimawhitestonewithanewnamewrittenonit,knownonlytohimwhoreceivesit.""Hewhoovercomeswill,likethem,bedressedinwhite.Iwillneverblotout his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge hisnamebeforemyFatherandhisangels.""HimwhoovercomesIwillmakeapillarinthetempleofmyGod.Neveragainwillheleaveit.IwillwriteonhimthenameofmyGodandthenameofthecityofmyGod, thenewJerusalem,which is comingdownoutofheavenfrommyGod;andIwillalsowriteonhimmynewname.""Tohimwhoovercomes,Iwillgivetherighttositwithme on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with myFatheronhis throne." "Hewhoovercomeswill inheritall this,andIwillbehisGodandhewillbemyson."

"OftasIlookupontheroadThatleadstoyonderblestabode,Ifeeldistressedandfearful;Somanyfoesthepassagethrong,Iamsoweakandtheysostrong,Howcanmysoulbecheerful?ButwhenIthinkofhimwhosepower,Cansavemeinatryinghour,AndplaceonHimreliance,

Mysoulisthenashamedoffear;Andthoughtenthousandfoesappear,I'llbidthemalldefiance.ThedangerousroadIthenpursue,Andkeepthegloriousprizeinview,Withjoyfulhopeelated;StrongintheLord,inHimalone,Whereheconducts,Ifollowon,Withardorunabated.OLord,eachdayrenewmystrength,Andletmeseeyourfaceatlength,Withallyourpeopleyonder;Withtheminheavenyourlovedeclare,Andsingyourpraiseforeverthere,Withgratitudeandwonder."

Encouragements-ProvisionbytheWay

"These are the ones who will dwell on high. The rocks of themountainswillbetheirfortressofsafety.Foodwillbesuppliedtothem,andtheywillhavewaterinabundance."Isaiah33:16

"Ithirst!OGod,greatSourceofLove!InfiniteLifestreamsfromabove,Ogiveonedropandletmelive!Thebarrenworldhasnothingtogive:Nosolacehaveitsstreamsforme:Ithirstaloneforheavenandthee."

When the Israelites were marching through the burningwildernessofArabiatothepromisedland,Godnourishedthemwith bread from heaven, andwith water from a smitten rock.Thenheopened thedoorsofheaven, and raineddownmannaupon them toeat, andgave themof thebreadofheaven.Men

ateangels' food!He sent them food to the full.Heopened therockinthewilderness,andgavethemdrinkasoutofthegreatdepths. He brought streams also out of the rock, and causedwaterstorundownlikerivers.

Thesameistrue,inaspiritualsense,ofZion'spilgrims,whoarejourneying through this barren wilderness world to the happyCanaanabove.TheyareencircledinthesameEverlastingArms.TheirneedsaresuppliedbythesameAlmightyHand.Theyeatof the hidden manna, and drink of the water of life. HowbeautifullyisthiscomparisonillustratedbytheChristianpoet!"WhenIsraelbydivinecommandThepathlessdeserttrod,Theyfound,though'twasabarrenland,AsureresourceinGod.Acloudypillarmarkedtheirroad,Andscreenedthemfromtheheat;Fromthehardrocksthewaterflowed,Andmannawastheirmeat."Likethemwehavearestinview,Securefromadversepowers:Likethemwepassadesert,too;ButIsrael'sGodisours.Yes,inthisbarrenwilderness,Heistousthesame,Byhisappointedmeansofgrace,Asoncehewastothem."

AgraciousGod,intheinfinitudeofhislove,hasprovidedampleprovisionfortherefreshmentandsupportofwearypilgrimsinpassing through this dark valley to the joyous realms ofeverlastinglight.Here,hehasinstitutedthepreciousordinancesofdivinegraceandsalvationforourjoyandhappinessuntilwecome to worship Him in His temple above. As our kindHeavenlyFather,hehasgivenusthebreadoflife.JesusChrististhetruebreadfromheaven,withwhichthesoulsofbelieversarenourishedintheirlonelypilgrimage.SaystheSavior,"Iam

thebreadof life.Noonewhocomestomewilleverbehungryagain.Thosewhobelieveinmewillneverthirst.""Yes,Iamthebread of life! Your ancestors atemanna in thewilderness, buttheyalldied.However,thebreadfromheavengiveseternallifetoeveryonewhoeats it. I am the livingbread that camedownoutofheaven.Anyonewhoeatsthisbreadwillliveforever;thisbreadismyflesh,offeredsotheworldmaylive."

The Israelites, in theirwanderings in thewilderness,were fedwithmanna;butwe,inourjourneytoabetterland,partakeofthe fullness of Jesus, whose flesh is food indeed, and whosebloodisdrinkindeed.Here,inthiswilderness,"Jesus,thebreadoflife,isgivenTobeourdailyfoodWedrinkawondrousstreamfromheaven,'Tiswater,wine,andblood.Lord,'tisenough,Iashnomore,Theseblessingsaredivine;Ienvynottheworldling'sstore,IfChristandheavenaremine."

Here,wedrinkofthelivingwatersofsalvation-thosestreamsofimmortal joys, which issue from the pierced side of a blessedRedeemer, for the refreshment of thirsty pilgrims, wanderingthroughthedesertsoflife.Theperennialfountainofthatriver,whosestreamsmakegladthecityofourGod,istobefoundinasufferingSavior;andat thispreciousFountainwemayquenchour thirst forever. "Everyone who drinks this water will bethirstyagain,butwhoeverdrinksthewaterIgivehimwillneverthirst.Indeed,thewaterIgivehimwillbecomeinhimaspringofwaterwellingup to eternal life."Here is thewell of endlesslife.

O thirsty soul, come to a bleeding Savior, and drink, and liveforever! You are earnestly invited to come to the Fountain ofLife. These living waters are freely offered to all. This is thelanguageofredeeminglove,"Isanyonethirsty?Comeanddrink

—evenifyouhavenomoney!Come,takeyourchoiceofwineormilk—it'sallfree!Whyspendyourmoneyonfoodthatdoesnotgive you strength?Why pay for food that does you no good?Listen,andIwilltellyouwheretogetfoodthatisgoodforthesoul!""ToallwhoarethirstyIwillgivethespringsofthewateroflifewithoutcharge!""TheSpiritandthebridesay,'Come.'Leteachonewhohearsthemsay,'Come.'Letthethirstyonescome—anyonewhowants to.Let themcomeanddrink thewateroflifewithoutcharge."

When the children of Israel left the land of Egypt, the LordguidedthemthroughthepathlessdesertbyapillarofcloudandfireuntiltheywerebroughttothebordersofCanaan.Thusthegreat Leader of his spiritual Israel has kindled a light in thisdarkanddrearylandtoguidehischosenpeopletothatgloriousrealmonhigh,whereit issaid,"TheLordshallbeuntoyouaneverlastinglight,andyourGodyourglory."

TheblessedWORDOFGODaffordstheChristiantravelerlight,comfort,joy,andprovisionbytheway.SaysthePsalmist:"Yourword isa lampuntomyfeet,anda lightuntomypath.This ismy comfort inmy affliction; for yourword has quickenedme.Yourstatuteshavebeenmysongsinthehouseofmypilgrimage.YourtestimonieshaveItakenasaheritageforever:fortheyarethe rejoicing ofmy heart.How sweet are yourwords untomytasteyes,sweeterthanhoneytomymouth."IntheBiblethereiseverythingprovidedfortheneedytravelertoZion."Itembodiesall,"saysaneloquentlivingdivine(Waterbury),"thataChristianin this pilgrimage can need. It is his only chart through thistempestuouslife.Introuble,itishisconsolation;inprosperity,hismonitor;indifficulty,hisguide.Amidthedarknessofdeath,andwhiledescendingintotheshadowyvalley,itistheday-starthatilluminateshispath,makeshisdyingeyebrightwithhope,andcheershissoulwiththeprospectofimmortalglory."

Ample provision is set before the pilgrim of Zion in aPREACHEDGOSPEL.Here it is thathis soul is refreshedwith

thericheststreamsofdivinegrace.Here,hedrawslivingwateroutofthewellsofsalvationwithjoy.Nowonder,then,thatthechild of God loves, above all other places in this world, thehabitationofGod'shouse.Nowonderthathislanguageis,"Myheart is breaking as I remember how it used to be: I walkedamong thecrowdsofworshipers, leadingagreatprocession tothehouseofGod,singingfor joyandgivingthanks—itwasthesound of a great celebration!" "How lovely is your dwellingplace,OLordAlmighty.Ilong,yes,Ifaintwithlongingtoenterthe courtsof theLord.Withmywholebeing,bodyand soul, IwillshoutjoyfullytothelivingGod."

ButthemostabundantprovisionisprocuredforneedypilgrimsinTHELORD'SSUPPER.Thisisamostprecious,amostsoul-ravishingordinanceofgrace.Surely,ifthereisatimewhentheChristianispermittedtoliedowningreenpastures,bythestillwaters,inthisbleakandbarrenworld,it isduringcommunionseasons,whenhedrawsaround thatholy table, andmeditateson the wonders of Calvary. Then it is that his weary soul isrefreshed with the abundance of God's grace, and with thegoodness of his house. Then it is that he reposes with thegreatestdelightundertheshadowofJesus,whoprotectsallhispeoplefromtheburningwrathofanoffendedGod."Isatdownunderhisshadowwithgreatdelight,andhisfruitwassweettomytaste."

If there is a moment this side of heaven, when the Christiantravelerseemstobreatheapureratmospherethanthatofearth,itiswhenseatedatthetableoftheLord,hetakesintohishandstheemblemsof Immanuel'sbrokenbodyandshedblood,and,with the eye of faith turned towards Calvary, views thatimmaculate Savior nailed to the accursed tree, bleeding fromeverypore–inhisunparalleledlove,dyingforrebelman,andbyhisvicariousdeathopeningthewaytoGodandtoglory.

When the believing communicant appropriates Christ and hisrighteousnessasfreelyofferedinthisordinance,hefeelsasifhis

happy spirit were fanned by the breezes of paradise. It is thisappropriatingact-thisfeastingonChristcrucifiedthatrefreshestheweary pilgrim infinitelymore than all the enjoyments of adying world. This rich provision satisfies the soul as withmarrow and fatness. It fills it with joy, unutterable,indescribableandfullofglory.Ourpoorpencannotdescribethejoyandpeacewhichafamishingsoulexperienceswheniteatsofthe hidden manna, and drinks of the living water. It isimpossible to tell how soul-reviving it is, thus to receive acrucifiedSavior as ours; tohavehis goodness imparted to oursouls.

"HowsweetthesacredjoythatdwellsInsoulsrenewedbypowerdivine;WhereJesusallhisgoodnesstells:Oh!maythisjoybeevermine."

Come,then,wearypilgrim,andreposeinthesegreenpastures,and bathe in the still waters. You will then be invigorated fortreading the pathway through the shadows of earth to thatbright,happy regionwhereyou shall forevereatof the fruitofthe treeof life in themidst of theparadiseofGod; andwhereyoushalldrinkofthatperennialfountainwhichissuesfromthethroneoftheEternal.

HowhappyistheconditionofZion'spilgrimeveninthislandofsorrow!TheirneedsareallsuppliedoutofJesus,inwhomithaspleased the Father that all fullness should dwell. Theirprovisions are prepared by the God of all grace; and they aresufficient."Theywillbemysheep,grazingingreenpasturesandonhillsthatwerepreviouslybare,andtheirpasturesshallbeinall high places." "They will be my sheep, grazing in greenpasturesandonhillsthatwerepreviouslybare.Theywillneitherhungernor thirst.The searing sunand scorchingdesertwindswillnotreachthemanymore.FortheLordinhismercywillleadthem beside cool waters. And I will makemymountains intolevel paths for them. The highways will be raised above the

valleys.See,mypeoplewillreturnfromfaraway,fromlandstothenorthandwest,andfromasfarsouthasEgypt.Singforjoy,Oheavens!Rejoice,Oearth!Burstintosong,Omountains!FortheLordhascomfortedhispeopleandwillhavecompassiononthemintheirsorrow."

Gothen,Christiantraveler,onyourwaytothepeacefulshoreofglory,singing,withacheerfulheart,thepilgrim'ssongofPsalm23–TheLordismyshepherd;IhaveeverythingIneed.Heletsmerestingreenmeadows;heleadsmebesidepeacefulstreams.Herenewsmystrength.Heguidesmealongrightpaths,bringinghonortohisname.EvenwhenIwalkthroughthedarkvalleyofdeath,Iwillnotbeafraid,foryouareclosebesideme.Yourrodandyourstaffprotectandcomfortme.Youprepareafeastformeinthepresenceofmyenemies.Youwelcomemeasaguest,anointingmyheadwithoil.Mycupoverflowswithblessings.Surelyyourgoodnessandunfailinglovewillpursuemeallthedaysofmylife,andIwillliveinthehouseoftheLordforever.

THECHRISTIANPILGRIMINTHEVALLEYOFBACA

"WhopassingthroughthevalleyofBacamake itawell; therainalsofillsthepools."Psalm84:6

"When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it willbecome a place of refreshing springs, where pools of blessingcollectaftertherains!"Psalm84:6

"God,inIsraelsowstheseedOfaffliction,pain,andtoil;ThesespringupandchoketheweedsWhichwouldelseo'erspreadthesoil.Trialsmakethepromisesweet,Trialsgivenewlifetoprayer;Trialsbringmetohisfeet,Laymelow,andkeepmethere."

OurpilgrimagetotheHeavenlyCanaanliesthroughavalleyofweeping.Thisearthisavalleyoftears:anditisapathwhichallofZion'spilgrimsmusttreaduntiltheycometothatplacewherethevoiceofweepingshallnomorebeheard."WemustthroughmuchtribulationenterintothekingdomofGod."OfGod'sownchosen people, it is said, "You have fed us with sorrow, andmade us drink tears by the bucketful." The followers of Jesusmustnot,therefore,expecttryfindasmoothroadtoglory."Youhavetestedus,OGod;youhavepurifieduslikesilvermeltedinacrucible.Yousenttroopstorideacrossourbrokenbodies.Wewent through fire and flood. But you brought us to a place ofgreatabundance."

"Ourpathisstrewedwithpiercingthorns;Eachstepisgainedbyarduousfight,Yetwait,tillhope'sbrightmorningdawns,Tilldarknesschangesintolight."

Someofthetrialswhichrenderthisworldavalleyoftears,andwhich the Christian pilgrim is called to suffer, are, bodilysickness,mentalanguish,adversity,andbereavement.Whohas

notexperiencedsomeoftheseafflictions?Ourlimitswillpermitus tonoticeonly the lastmentioned- thatofBEREAVEMENT.Andwhosecheekshavenotbeenmoistenedbythetearsshedforthelossofsomedearcompanion?Whohasnot, inthis landofdeath,beencalledtotakethelastlookofsomelovedassociateinhis toilsome pilgrimage? To see, perhaps, his dearest friendsloweredinthecold,darkgrave?Ohowtryingtofleshandblood,isbereavement!

"This is the bitterest of all earthly sorrows. It is the sharpestarrow in the quiver of God. To love tenderly and deeply, andthentohave tomeet together for the last timeorearth; tobidfarewell for time; to have all remembrances of home andkindredbrokenup– this is the realityof sorrow.To lookuponthatfacethatshallsmileonusnomore;toclosethoseeyesthatshallseeusnomore;tokissthoselipsthatshallspeaktousnomore;tostandbythecoldsideoffather,mother,brother,sister,friend,yethearnosoundandreceivenogreeting;tocarrytothetombthebelovedofourhearts,andthentoreturntoadesolatehomewithablankinoneregionofoursoulswhichshallneveragainbefilleduntilJesuscomeswithallhissaints–this is thebitternessofgrief;thisisthewormwoodandthegall."

ThisiswhatthesaintsofGod,aswellasthemenoftheworld,aredailycalledtoendure;andthisiswhatrendersearthsuchavalleyoftears.

But we would also notice the DESIGN which God has inafflictingtherighteous.Itistopreparethemforthatbetterland,wherethereisfullnessofjoy.Itistodrawtheiraffectionsfromearthtoheaven-fromthewildernesstoCanaan.Itistomakeusmindful of our inheritance above- tomake us feel thatwe arestrangersandpilgrimsontheearth-tomakeuscleavetoJesusbyfaith-tomakeusmeditateonthewondersofhisredeeminglove-toqualifyusforaparticipationofthejoysoftheredeemedbeforetheThrone.Ourlight,momentaryafflictionworksforusafarmoreexceedingandeternalweightofglory.

"Affliction,"saysone,"notonlyprofitsusmuchjustnow,butitwillserveusmuchineternity.Thenweshalldiscoverhowmuchweoweit.All that it isdoing forus,weknownotnow,butweshall know hereafter. It is preparing for us a 'more abundantentrance,' a weightier crown, a whiter robe, a sweeter rest, ahomemadedoublypreciousbyalongexileandmanysufferingsherebelow."

"I wonder," says that godly man of other days, SamuelRutherford, "I wonder many times that ever a child of Godshouldhaveasadheart,consideringwhattheLordispreparingforthem."Saysone,"Whenweshallcomehome,andenterintothe possession of our brother's fair kingdom, and when ourheads shall feel the weight of the eternal crown of glory, andwhenweshalllookbacktopainandsufferings,thenshallweseelifeandsorrow,tobelessthanonesteporstridefromaprisonto a glory, and that our little inch of temporal-suffering is notworthy of our first night'swelcome home to heaven. Howevermattersgo, theworstshallbeatiredtraveler,anda joyful andsweetwelcomehome."

But amid all our affliction here we are not without strongconsolation. The most precious promises are extended to themourningpilgrimsofZion.ThereisOnewhospeakstotheminthe tenderest love and compassion. "Sing for joy, O heavens!Rejoice, O earth! Burst into song, Omountains! For the Lordhascomfortedhispeopleandwillhavecompassiononthemintheirsorrow.""I,evenI,amtheonewhocomfortsyou"Thereisaneyethatwatchesoversufferingpilgrims.Thereisahandthatsmoothes the rugged passage to the realms of day. There is aFriend inHeaven,who feels for his sorrowful disciples in thisvalley of tears. Jesus is that Friend who sticks closer than abrother;andhisencouraginglanguagetohisafflictedfollowersis,"Letnotyourheartbe troubled:youbelieve inGod,believealsoinme.InmyFather'shousearemanymansions.""Hethatgoes forth and weeps, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless

comeagainwithrejoicing,bringinghissheaveswithHim"

"Beloved, it is well. It is good to he afflicted. Our days ofsufferingherewecalldaysofdarkness;hereaftertheywillseemour brightest and fairest. In eternity we shall praise Jehovah,mostofallforoursorrowsandtears.Soblessedshalltheythenseemtous,thatweshallwonderhowwecouldeverhaveweptandsighed."(HoratiusBonar)

There is a joyful 'harvest-home' for weeping pilgrims in NewJerusalem.Inthathappyhome,notearsshalleverflow,throughthegloriousagesofvasteternity."Therepuritywithloveappears,Andblisswithoutalloy;TherethosewhoofthadsownintearsShallreapagaininjoy."

Of those who are marching through this valley of tears toImmanuel'sland,ourgraciousHeavenlyFatherhassaid:"Theywill come home and sing songs of joy on the heights ofJerusalem. Theywill be radiant because of themany gifts theLord has given them—the good crops of wheat, wine, and oil,andthehealthyflocksandherds.Theirlifewillbelikeawateredgarden,andalltheirsorrowswillbegone."Thenshalleverytearbe wiped away from the faces of all the redeemed before thethroneofGod.

A consideration of THE BREVITY OF THEIR EARTHLYTRIALSoughttoaffordrelieftowearypilgrimswhoarelookingto Jesus for eternal life. Theywill not be long in the valley ofBaca. Theywill soon have reached the heights ofMount Zion.Our light affliction is but for amoment. "His anger lasts for amoment, but his favor lasts a lifetime!Weepingmay go on allnight, but joy comes with the morning." How pleasing is thethought thatour redemption is everymomentdrawingnearer.Wemaywell lift up our headswith joy, for the coming of theLorddrawsnear.

Our journey to the skies is but a short one. We are rapidlyadvancingtothetearlessregion."Everyhourthatstrikes-everymorningthatdawns,andeveryeveningthatdarkensaroundus,bringsusnearertotheendofourpilgrimage."Afewmoretearsofsorrow;afewmoredaysofdarkness,andnightsofweeping,and we shall forever be with the Lord in that better country,whereweshall find fullnessof joy in thepresenceofHimwhohasloveduswithaneverlastinglove-whohaswashedusfromoursinsinhisownmostpreciousblood,andwhowillwipeawayall tears from our eyes. Then the Lord will be our everlastinglight, and the days of ourmourning be ended. Even so, come,LordJesus!

THECHRISTIANONPISGAH'SMOUNT

"Youreyeswill see theking inhisbeautyandviewa land thatstretchesafar."Isaiah33:17

"Youreyeswillseethekinginallhissplendor,andyouwillseealandthatstretchesintothedistance."Isaiah33:17

"Iwasagrovelingcreatureonce,Andbaselycleavedtoearth;IlackedthespirittorenounceTheclodthatgavemebirth.ButGodhasbreatheduponthisworm,Andsentmefromabove,Wingssuchasclotheanangel'sform;Thewingsofjoyandlove.WiththesetoPisgah'stopIfly,Andtheredelightedstand;Toviewbeneathashiningsky,

Thespaciouspromisedland"'

Before the children of Israel gained possession of the land ofCanaan,theywere refreshedwitha tasteof itsdelicious fruits.In like manner, the Christian, before he reaches the bettercountry,hasmanysweetforetastesofcelestialjoysinthevalleyof weeping. There are times when he seems to live above theworld,andtohavenothingbutthegloriesofheaveninhiseye.At such delightful seasons, he can adopt the soul-stirringlanguage of Payson: "The celestial city is fully inmy view. Itsgloriesbeamuponme,itsbreezesfanme,itsodorsarewaftedtome,itssoundsstrikeuponmyears,anditsspiritisbreathedintomyheart."

The views of the pilgrim, when by faith he surveys the betterland, are similar to those of the Christian when showed theDelectable Mountains. How beautifully and strikingly is thisdescribed lay the immortalBunyan:"ThenI saw inmydream,that on themorrow he got up to go forward, but they desiredhimtostayuntilthenextdayalso;andthen,saidthey,wewill,ifthe day be clear, show you the Delectable Mountains; which,they said, would yet farther and to his comfort, because theywerenearer thedesiredhaven than theplacewhereatpresenthe was; so he consented and staid. When the morning came,theytookhimtothetopofthehouse,andbidhimlooksouth.Sohedid,andbehold,atagreatdistance,hesawamostpleasantmountainouscountry,beautifiedwithwoods,vineyards,fruitsofall sorts, flowers also, with springs and fountains, verydelectable to behold. Then he asked the name of the country.They said it was Immanuel's land; and it is as common, saidthey, as this hill is, to and for all the pilgrims. Andwhen youcomethere,fromthenceyoumayseetothegateofthecelestialcity,astheshepherdsthatlivetherewillmakeappear."

We would notice, in a word or two, HOW and WHERE theChristianobtainsthemostgloriousviewsofthatPromisedLandwhichliesbeyondtheJordanofdeath.

1.AsMosesobtainedaviewoftheearthlyCanaanfromthetopof Pisgah, so we yet a glimpse of heavenly glory FROM THEMOUNT OF MEDITATION– our spiritual Pisgah. "Bymeditation,"saysapiousolddivine,"IcanconversewithGod-solacemyselfinthebosomofmyBeloved-bathemyselfinriversofpleasures-treadthepathsofmyrest-andviewthemansionsofmyeternity.Whatdoyougain,then,Omysoul,inthisvalleyoftears?Goupuponthemount,andviewtheLandofPromise!Whatcanyoulookforinthiswildernessoftrouble?Upuponthewing, and take your flight to Heaven– let your thoughts bewhere your happiness is, and let the heart be where yourthoughtsare.Thoughyourhabitationmaybeonearth,yetyourconversationshallbeinHeaven."

2. It is while waiting upon God IN THE COURTS OF HISHOUSE–whileseatedatthetableoftheLord,thattheChristianpilgrimsometimesobtainsthebrightestviewsofheaven.Itisinthe earthly temple of the Lord that we oftentimes obtain aglimpse of the heavenly mansion. Here it is, that a sweetpromise has been repeatedly verified to the children of God:"YoureyesshallseetheKinginhisbeauty;theyshallbeholdtheland that is very far off." O how delightful is it thus to glancefromearth toHeaven- froma dyingworld to one of immortalbloom-fromtheturbulentsceneofourtoilandsuffering;tothepeacefulmansionsofourrestandfelicity!

Thereisnothingthattransportsthesoulofawearypilgrimlikea faith's view of his eternal rest beyond the swelling floods ofJordan."HowrichtheprospectglowsBeyondthisvaleoftears;Wherecrystalwaterflows,Andverdurecrownstheyear."

Come then, fellow pilgrim, and survey your everlasting happyhome.AscendtheMountofPisgah,andbeholdthegloriousland

before you. View the Celestial City, with its twelve gates ofpearls, and its streets of gold, enlightenedby the glory ofGodandtheLamb.Seetheriverofpleasure,withitscrystalstreams,flowing fromtheEternalThrone;and theTreeofLife,with itstwelve kinds of fruits, standing in the midst of the Paradise.Beholdthecountlessthrongoftheredeemedbeforethethrone.Heartheirsweet,melodiousstrains,whichshallforevergladdentherealmsabove:"Allpraisetohimwholovesusandhasfreedusfromoursinsbysheddinghisbloodforus.Hehasmadeushis kingdom and his priestswho serve before God his Father.Givetohimeverlastingglory!Herulesforeverandever!Amen!""WorthyistheLambthatwasslaintoreceivepower,andriches,andwisdom,andstrength,andhonor,andglory,andblessing."

"ThereshalltheransomedthrongASavior'sloverecord;Andshout,ineverlastingsong,SalvationtotheLord!"

Above all, contemplate your blessed Redeemer, seated on hisgreatwhite throne, encircled with heavenly glory. Look at theKing inhisbeauty! It is thesightofaglorifiedSavior thatwillmake the heaven of the believer. Endeavor now, by the eye offaith, tobehold theLordJesus inallhismatchlessbeautyandexcellence. Contemplate his glorious character; his infinitemercy;hisunparalleledcondescension,andhisboundlesslove.There is enough in Jesus to employ the soul in rapturousmeditationthroughavasteternity–hisexcellence,hisgoodness,andhislovecanneverbefathomed.O,then,keepyoureyefixedonthisadorableSavior,whileyousojourninthisvalleyoftears;andinalittlewhileyoushallseehimasheis-facetoface,andascribetohimunceasingpraise.

How reviving to the weary Christian traveler, from the top ofPisgah, is a view of his distant, happy home in the HeavenlyCanaan!Hisfeelingsonthisdelightfulspotarewellexpressedinthefollowingbeautifullines–

"Aswhenthewearytravelergains,Theheightofsomeo'er-lookinghill,Hisheartrevives,ifacrosstheplainsHeeyeshishome,throughdistantstill.Whilehesurveysthemuchlovedspot,Heslightsthespacethatliesbetween;Hispastfatiguesarenowforgot,Becausehisjourney'sendisseen.ThuswhentheChristianpilgrimviewsByfaith,hismansionintheskies,Thesighthisfaintingstrengthrenews,Andwingshisspeedtoreachtheprize.Thethoughtofhome,hisspiritcheers,Nomorehegrievesfortroublespast;Noranyfuturetrialfears,Sohemaysafearriveatlast.'Tisthere,hesays,IamtodwellWithJesus,intherealmsofday;ThenIshallbidmycaresfarewell,Andhewillwipemytearsaway."

THEPOSTUREOFTHECHRISTIANPILGRIMINCOMINGUPFROMTHEWILDERNESSOFTHISWORLD

"Whoisthisthatcomesupfromthewilderness,leaninguponherbeloved?"SongofSolomon8:5

"But,firmasonarock,ThesaintonChristrelies;Hesmilesindeath'sdissolvingshock,Andmountsintotheskies!"

TheJewishchurchcameupfromthewilderness,leaningonthe

EternalGod for her support.Hewas theGuide, theRock, theSalvationofhischosenIsrael."Hefoundtheminadesertland,in an empty, howling wasteland. He surrounded them andwatched over them; he guarded them as his most preciouspossession.Likeaneaglethatrousesherchicksandhoversoverheryoung, sohe spreadhiswings to take them inand carriedthem aloft on his pinions. The Lord alone guided them; theylivedwithoutanyforeigngods."

In like manner, the Christian church is passing through thedesertsoflife,hasIsrael'sGodforitsLeader.ThesamegraciouseyethatwatchedoverthewanderingtribesofIsraelintheirlongjourney through theArabianwilderness, is nowwatchingwiththe tenderest care and love over that chosen band, who haveforsaken all for Christ, and who are marching through achanging,terrestrialscenetoahigher,brighter,noblerworldonhigh."ButtheLordwatchesoverthosewhofearhim,thosewhorely on his unfailing love." "He that touches you, touches theapple of his eye." (Anyone who harms you harms my mostpreciouspossession.)ThesamekindhandthatledIsraelofoldto the promised land, guides the humble followers of Jesus tomansions of glory in the skies. "TheLord of hosts iswith us.""TheeternalGodisourrefuge;andunderneathandaroundusaretheEverlastingArms."

Inthe8thchapteroftheSongofSolomonwehavethepostureof the pilgrim, advancing to the celestial city, beautifullypresentedtous"Whoisthisthatcomesupfromthewilderness,leaning upon her beloved?"Herewe see the blessed object onwhichtheChristianreposes,whilepassingthroughthissceneoffluctuating and perishing mortality. He relies entirely uponJesusChrist,theBelovedofhissoul.Helooktonoothersourcefor protection and support. He hopes in no other refuge. Hislanguage is, "Lord, towhomwouldwego?Youalonehave thewordsthatgiveeternallife."

We would advert to a few ways in which a believing soul, in

coming up from the wilderness, rests on Jesus, the sinner'sFriend.

1. He rests on him for STRENGTH. The poor pilgrim has nomight in himself; but relying on Christ, he can say with holyPaul,"WhenIamweak,thenIamstrong."Whatahappythingit is to feel our ownweakness and nothingness in the sight ofHeaven; and then to cast ourselves into the strong arms ofJesus–thosearmsofinfinitelove,whichencircleandsustainallthe righteous. "The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; thegodlyruntohimandaresafe."ItisbyleaningupontheBelovedofoursoulsthatwearemadestrong.

Helpless pilgrim, would you obtain strength for gaining thejoyfulheightsofZion?ThenlooktoJesus.Restinhimnow;andinalittlewhile,whenyoucrossintoCanaan,youwillrestwithhim in that happy land, where weariness and sorrow areunknown.Donottrusttoyourownstrength;butleanupontheLord,andyouwillbeupheldwithdivinegraceandpower.Thenyouwillbeenabledtopressonwardwiththegreatestspeedandalacrity to the heavenly mansions. "The Lord's voice will roarfrom Zion and thunder from Jerusalem, and the earth andheavenswillbegintoshake.Buttohispeople,theLordwillbeawelcomingrefugeandastrongfortress."

"Haveyouneverheardorunderstood?Don'tyouknowthattheLord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth? Henevergrows faintorweary.Noone canmeasure thedepthsofhis understanding.He gives power to thosewho are tired andworn out; he offers strength to the weak. Even youths willbecomeexhausted,andyoungmenwillgiveup.Butthosewhowait on the Lordwill find new strength. Theywill fly high onwings likeeagles.Theywill runandnotgrowweary.Theywillwalkandnotfaint."

"BlestJesus,tomysoulYourgraceandstrengthimpart;

Till,clothedinperfectrighteousness,Iseeyouasyouart.AsIwanderthroughthedesert,BemyconstanthelpandstayShineuponmypath,andleadmeTotherealmsofendlessday."

Happy ishewho in themorningof life casts all his careuponJesus;whotakestheSaviorashisallandinall–asthestrengthofhisheartandhisportionforever.Hemaysweetlysingasheistosseduponthesurgingbillowsoflife'socean,"PraisetheLord!Hewasangrywithme,butnowhecomfortsme.See,Godhascometosaveme.Iwilltrustinhimandnotbeafraid.TheLordGodismystrengthandmysong;hehasbecomemysalvation."

"ButJesusismylivingway,Myonlytrust,myhope,mystay;Fromhim,Iallmystrengthreceive,Anddailyonhisfullnesslive."

2.TheChristianCLEAVESTOJESUSBYFAITH.HeknowsthathisRedeemerlives,andherestshiswholeweightuponhim.HelivesuponanunseenSavior.Ourlifeinthewildernessisalifeoffaith.Here,we liveby faithandwalkby faith.Thiswillbe themannerofourlifeuntilwecometobeholdourRedeemerfacetofaceintheHeavenlyJerusalem,andenjoyalltheblessednessofthatbettercountryabove.Butsuchalifeisoneofcomfortandjoy to the Christian pilgrim in this wilderness land. "O! theblessednessandjoyoffaith!Howdoesitbringnear,andrealizeaviewofChristinglory!DoweindeedseeChristbytheeyeoffaith?Ishe theonechiefobjectofoursouls? Isheprecious tous?Verily,then,weshallcountourdaysonearthtoilsomeones,andlongforthefullfruitionofhiminglory.Itwillbeourgreatjoy to see him, whose blessed headwas crowned with thorns,andwhose lovely facewas spit upon, for us!Until then, letuslivebyfaithinhim,constantlycrying,"Come,Lord,Jesus,comequickly."

Though the believermay be walking to darkness, yet hemuststill, by faith, lean upon the Beloved of his soul. "Who amongyoufearstheLordandobeyshisservant?Ifyouarewalkingindarkness, without a ray of light, trust in the Lord and rely onyour God." The pathway to the celestial mansions is oftenobscuredbydarkness.Here,atbest,weseebutthroughaglass,darkly."Wearebutaswayfaringmen,wandering inthe lonelynight, who see dimly upon the distant mountain-peak thereflectionof a sun thatnever riseshere,butwhich shallneversetinthe'newheavens'hereafter."(Bonar)

"Darknessoverspreadsushere,ButthenightwearsfastawayJacob'sstarwillsoonappear,Leadingoneternalday!"

ThecommissionofsinisthegreatcauseoftheChristianbeingoften left to wander in darkness. "Your iniquities," says theprophet,"haveseparatedbetweenyouandyourGod,andyoursinshavehiddenhisfacefromyou,thathewillnothear."Howsad is sucha condition!When, for a season, the lightofGod'scountenanceiswithdrawnfromthebeliever,heisledtocrywithpiousJob,"I longfortheyearsgonebywhenGodtookcareofme, when he lighted the way before me and I walked safelythroughthedarkness. Inmyearlyyears, the friendshipofGodwas felt inmy home. The Almighty was still withme..." "I goeast,buthe isnot there. Igowest,butIcannot findhim.Idonot seehim in thenorth, forhe ishidden. I turn to the south,butIcannotfindhim."

AttimeshecrieswiththePsalmist,"IthirstforGod,thelivingGod.WhencanIcomeandstandbeforehim?"Andhecanalsosay with the pious Cowper, who trod a gloomy path to therealmsofday,"OforacloserwalkwithGod!

Acalmandheavenlyframe!AlighttoshineupontheroadThatleadsmetotheLamb!"

The duty of the Christian, walking in darkness to trust in thename of the Lord, and lean upon his God. Let him always befoundleaningonhisBeloved;and,thoughhisdaysonearthmaybedarksome,yetatthe"eveningtime"ofhispilgrimage,"itshallbelight."HowsweetwillbethelightofHeaventosuchasoul!

"Wejourneythroughavaleoftears;Butoftenfromonhigh;ThegloriousbowofGodappears,Andlightsupalloursky.Thenthroughthebreakingcloudsofheaven,Fardistantvisionscome;Andsweetestwordsofgracearegiven,Tocheerthepilgrimhome."

In order to obtain the greatest light and comfort now, let thefolloweroftheLambbefounddiligentlyimprovingthemeansofgraceandsalvation,whichGodhasaffordedhim."Letthewordof Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching andadmonishing one another in psalms, andhymns, and spiritualsongs,singingwithgraceinyourheartstotheLord."HowoftenhasabeamfromHeavendarteduponthepilgrimwhileengagedinthesweetemploymentofpraisingGod!

"SometimesalightsurprisesTheChristianwhilehesings;ItistheLordwhorisesWithhealinginhiswings!Whencomfortsaredeclining,HegrantsthesoulagainAseasonofclearshining,Tocheeritafterrain."

3.ThebelieverRESTSONJESUSFORRIGHTEOUSNESSANDPARDON.Thelanguageofarenewedsoulis,"IntheLordIhaverighteousness and strength." "But in the Lord all thedescendants of Israel will be found righteous and will exult."Manhadnorighteousnessofhisownto justifyhim insightofHeaven. Not a single soul could have gained the celestialParadiseiftheSonofGodhadnotassumedhumanity,andbyalife of obedience and suffering, fulfilled the violated law, andbrought in an everlasting righteousness. Blessed be God! theSonofRighteousnesshasarisenuponourbenightedworld;andZion'spilgrimswalkinhislight.

"Christistheendofthelawforrighteousnesstoeveryonewhobelieves."Inthe23dchapterofJeremiahheiscalled,"TheLordOurRighteousness."Everybeliever inChrist is arrayed in thatlinen,cleanandwhite,whichistherighteousnessofsaints.Hisrobes are washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb.How happy is the condition of the saint! His sins are allcancelledby theatoningrighteousnessofourLordandSavior,whose language is, "I, even I, am he that blots out yourtransgressions for my own sake, and will not remember yoursins."

As theChristianpilgrim journeys towards the realmsofpeace,leaninguponJesus for righteousnessandpardon,hecan raisehisvoiceintriumphantsongsofpraisetohisRedeemer.Thisisoneofhissweetestsongs inthehouseofhispilgrimage:"Iamoverwhelmedwith joy intheLordmyGod!Forhehasdressedmewith the clothing of salvation and drapedme in a robe ofrighteousness. I am likeabridegroom inhiswedding suitorabridewithherjewels."

HecanalsolookforwardtothedarkwatersofJordan,andsay,withthepoet,"Whendeathshallloosethesilvercord,Obedienttoyourmandate,Lord,Mysoulshalljoyandpeacepossess,

IfJesusbemyrighteousness."

4. The Christian pilgrim relies on Jesus FOR GUIDANCETHROUGHTHISVALLEYOFTEARStothepeacefulshoreofablessed eternity. "You shall guide me with your counsel, andafterwardreceivemetoglory.""Jesus,onyouourhopedepends,Toleadusontoyourabode:AssuredourhomewillmakeamendsForallourtoilwhileontheroad."

Amidallthevicissitudesofasublunaryscene-inprosperityandadversity, in health and sickness, in life and death, the wearypilgrimreclinesontheAlmightyarmofJesus,andalliswell.HeknowsthatwhattheSaviorhaspromised,hewillperform;andhereads,withunspeakabledelight,thesepreciouspromises:"Iwillguideyoualongthebestpathwayforyourlife.Iwilladviseyouandwatchoveryou.""TheLordwillguideyoucontinually,watering your life when you are dry and keeping you healthy,too.Youwillbelikeawell-wateredgarden,likeanever-flowingspring."

5. The believer trusts in Christ FOR ETERNAL LIFE. Of thatlittleflockwhohavechosenthebetterlandfortheirinheritance,Jesus says, "I will give unto them eternal life; and they shallneverperish,neithershallanypluckthemoutofmyhand;"andagain:"Iamtheresurrectionandthelife.Hewhobelievesinmewilllive,eventhoughhedies;andwhoeverlivesandbelievesinmewillneverdie."Thisisthemostpreciouspromisedblessingofthecovenantofgrace.Nocreatedmindcancomprehendthefull importof thesewords–EternalLife!They include in themthehighestblissofHeaven.SuchalifewilltheSavioreventuallybestowuponthosewhonowreposeinhim.

There is a blissful hour fast approaching, when the weather-beaten pilgrim shall be raised above the storms of life by theSavior'shand.BeyondtheswellingsoftheJordanofdeaththere

is a peaceful shore, a happy, land, where the pilgrims of Zionshall be investedwith the robes of immortality, and rein withChrist forever and ever. Fellow pilgrim, we would earnestlyinvite you to come andput your trust in himwhowill sustainyouamidtheheart-rendingtrialsofthisvalleyoftears,andwhowill bring you to a better land- who will bestow upon youimmortal existence, an unfading crown of glory in that worldbeyondthestars.

In all your wanderings through this world, cleave closely toJesus.LiveforHimwhodiedforyou.O,maytheredeemingloveoftheblessedSaviorconstrainyoutobewhollyhis.Livewithaneyefixeduponhiscross.TurntothatsacredmountandbeholdaSavior expiring for your salvation; hear him exclaiming, "It isfinished."

Othesweetwondersofthatcross,WhereChrist,mySavior,lovedanddied;HernoblestlifemyspiritdrawsFromhisdearwoundsandbleedingside."

Go, then,and liveuponChrist.Live in thedailycontemplationof his glorious atonement, and in the sincere belief of his all-sufficiencytosaveyoursoul.Mayyourlanguageeverbethatofan enraptured Apostle: "As for me, God forbid that I shouldboastaboutanythingexceptthecrossofourLordJesusChrist.Because of that cross,my interest in thisworlddied long ago,andtheworld'sinterestinmeisalsolongdead."

Ifyou thus liveby faith inChrist,and in theblessedhopeofaglorious immortality, you need not fear, at the close of life, totread along death's dark valley to cross Jordan's swellingstream;forinthatsolemnhour,Jesuswillsustainandcomfortyou by his presence; andGodwill redeem your soul from thepowerofthegrave;forheshallreceiveyou.

"O,couldIfind,fromdaytoday,

AnearnesstomyGod,Thenwouldmyhoursglidesweetaway,Whileleaningonhisword."Lord,IdesirewithyoutoliveAnewfromdaytoday,Injoystheworldcannevergive,Norevertakeaway.BlestJesus,come,andrulemyheart,Andmakemewhollythine,ThatImaynevermoredepart,Norgrieveyourlovedivine.Thus,tillmylast,expiringbreath,YourgoodnessI'lladoreAndwhenmyframedissolvesindeath,Mysoulshallloveyoumore."

PassageovertheJordanofDeath

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you: andthroughtherivers,theyshallnotoverflowyou."Isaiah43:2

"Howsweetthehourofclosingday,Whenallispeacefulandserene,Andwhenthesun,withcloudlessray,Shedsmellowlustero'erthescene!SuchistheChristian'spartinghour,Sopeacefullyhesinkstorest;Whenfaith,endowedfromHeavenwithpowerSustainsandcheershislanguidbreast."

AstheChristianpilgrimisabouttoleavethewildernessofthisworld forever, he has to cross a dark stream. The Jordan ofdeathrollsbetweenthisworldandtheCelestialCanaan.Beforetheyobtainedfullpossessionofthepromisedland,theIsraelites

leadtopassoverJordan;soeverytravelertotheCanaanabovemustcrossovertheriverofdeath,beforeheisadmittedintothecourts of paradise, and obtains possession of the heavenlyinheritance. In the third chapter of Joshua we have aninteresting account of the Israelites' passage over Jordan. Wethere read as follows: "When the people set out to cross theJordan, thepriestswhowerecarrying theArkof theCovenantwent ahead of them. Now it was the harvest season, and theJordanwasoverflowingitsbanks.Butassoonasthefeetofthepriests who were carrying the Ark touched the water at theriver'sedge,thewaterbeganpilingupatatownupstreamcalledAdam,whichisnearZarethan.And thewaterbelow thatpointflowedon to theDeadSeauntil theriverbedwasdry.ThenallthepeoplecrossedovernearthecityofJericho.Meanwhile,thepriestswhowerecarryingtheArkoftheLord'scovenantstoodondrygroundinthemiddleoftheriverbedasthepeoplepassedby them. They waited there until everyone had crossed theJordanondryground."Joshua3:14-17

Now,allthisistypicalofthebeliever'striumphantpassageovertheJordanofdeath.WhenthefaintingChristianpilgrimcomesto the brink of this last swelling stream, over which all mustpass, Jesus Christ, our great High Priest, who bears theeverlastingcovenantonhisshoulders,goesbeforeandrollsbackthesurgingwaves,thattheransomedsoulmaypasssafelyoverintoglory.Intheprospectofdissolution,thesaintmaysay,withaChristianpoet–

"AswellingJordanrollsbetween,AtimidpilgrimI;Butgraceshallorderallthescene,AndChristhimselfbenigh.Heshallrollbackthefoamingwave,Commandthechanneldry;Nostinghasdeath,novictorygrave,WithJesusinmyeye."

What we design in the few following pages, is, to comfort thetimidChristian in the prospect of death; to show that Jesus iswithbelieversinthedarkvalley;tocitesomeofthelastwordsofeminentsaints,who,sustainedandcheeredbytheSavior,havepassedoverJordanwithsongsof triumph;and tocontemplatethehappyterminationoftheChristianpilgrim'sjourney,andhisjoyfulentranceupontherestabove.

1. THE PRECIOUS RELIGION OF JESUS AFFORDS THESTRONGESTCONSOLATIONTOTHECHRISTIANPILGRIMINTHEVIEWOFDEATH.There is no reasonwhyhe shoulddreaditsapproach.Itsterrorsaresubdued;itsstingisextracted;itisadisarmedenemy.DeathcannotharmthechildofGod;butforhimtodieisgain.Tosuchitisthebeginningofeverlasting,celestial joys- the daybreak of a glorious eternity. It is only apeacefulslumberinJesus-anenteringintothejoyoftheLord.Itisbuttodepartfromalandofsorrowandbereavement,andbe with Christ, in those happy regions where God shall wipeawayalltearsfromtheeye.TotheChristian,"deathhaschangedits nature and its name. Call it nomore death; it is the sweetsleepof thebody,deposited in itsearthybed,under theeyeoftheRedeemer,untilthemorningoftheresurrection."

Many pious Christians are held in bondage by the fear ofcrossing the river of death. Their feelings with regard to thissubjectarenotwhattheyshouldbe.Theyoughttoriseabovethefear of dissolution; for Christ has delivered us from thisbondage. He has achieved this victory by the assumption ofhumanity-bydestroyingtheworksofthedevil,andbypassingthrough the swelling Jordan in our nature. "Because God'schildrenarehumanbeings—madeoffleshandblood—Jesusalsobecamefleshandbloodbybeingborninhumanform.Foronlyasahumanbeingcouldhedie,andonlybydyingcouldhebreakthepoweroftheDevil,whohadthepowerofdeath.Onlyinthiswaycouldhedeliverthosewhohavelivedalltheirlivesasslavestothefearofdying."

TheSaviorhaswarmedthecoldgraveforhisdisciples.Hehasmade an easy way through the swellings of Jordan for thefaithful followers.Why, then, fellow pilgrim, are you afraid tocross this stream when the channel is dry? when you see thefootprintsofyourRedeemerinthebottom?whendeathisbutasurestepintoglory?Surelythereisnogroundfordismaytothebeliever in that solemn hour which terminates his earthlypilgrimage;but every reason for joyfulness. "Forweknow thatwhen this earthly tentwe live in is taken down—whenwe dieand leave these bodies—we will have a home in heaven, aneternal body made for us by God himself and not by humanhands."

Thereisnocondemnationtothebeliever;for,beingjustifiedbyfaith,hehaspeacewithGod,throughourLordJesusChrist.Hehas peace during his pilgrimage; he has peace in the hour ofdeath. InChrist, heobtains a complete victory over death andthe gloomy grave.Washed in the atoning blood of the Savior,and clad in the snowy robe of his righteousness, he can shoutforth joyfully, upon a dying bed, "Death is swallowed up invictory.Odeath,where isyourvictory?Odeath,where isyoursting?Forsinisthestingthatresultsindeath,andthelawgivessinitspower.HowwethankGod,whogivesusvictoryoversinanddeaththroughJesusChristourLord!"

ItisJesus,thesinner'sFriend,whodisarmsdeathofitsterrors-whomakes adyingbed so easy to thebeliever.Hencemany aoncetimidpilgrimhasbeenabletosayinhislastmoments,"Isthis dying? Is this the enemy that dismayedme so long, now,nowappearingsoharmless,andevenpleasant?"O,howrevivingthat,"JesuscanmakeadyingbedFeelsoftasdownypillowsare,WhileonhisbreastIleanmyhead,Andbreathemylifeoutsweetlythere."

2.CHRISTISWITHHISCHOSENPEOPLEINTHEMIDSTOF

JORDAN.Hispreciouspremiseis"Whenyoupassthroughthewaters,Iwillbewithyou;andthroughtherivers,theyshallnotoverflowyou."Intheirpassagethroughdeath,theLordupholdsand cheers the souls of his ransomed ones by the endearingmanifestationsofhisgraciouspresenceandwonderfullove.

"Howharpyisthedyingsaint,Whosesinsareallforgiven;WithjoyhepassesJordan'sflood,Upheldbyhopesofheaven.TheSavior,whomhetrulyloved,Nowcheershimbyhisgrace;Aglorygildshisdyingbed,Andbeamsuponhisface."

Hence, thousands of God's children have been enabled toexclaim,whiledescendingintotheshadowyvalley,"EvenwhenIwalk through thedark valley of death, Iwill not be afraid, foryou are close besideme. Your rod and your staff protect andcomfortme."

Itwasthesoul-ravishingmanifestationoftheSavior'spresenceandlovethatmadethemartyrsso joyfulat thestake;and it isthis that has made many a departing saint burst forth withrapturousjoyinsuchlanguageasthis:"O!whyishischariotsolong in coming? Why tarry the wheels of his chariot? Come,Lord Jesus; comequickly!"Owhat amazingmercy does Jesusoftenbestowuponhis faithful follower in thedarksomevalley,and in the deep Jordan,when the cold hand of death is uponhim!

"Jesus,thevisionofyourfaceHasoverpoweringcharms;ScarceshallIfeeldeath'scoldembrace,IfChristbeinmyarms."

3. We now proceed to cite the DYING SAYINGS of a few

eminent,piousChristians,whohavebeenwonderfullysustainedbydivinegraceduring theirpassage over the Jordanof death.Wementionthefollowinggloriousexamples–DonaldCargill:"ThisisthemostjoyfuldaythateverIsawinmypilgrimage on earth. My joy is now begun, which I see shallneverbeinterrupted."Luther:"IntoyourhandsIcommitmyspirit;Godoftruth,youhaveredeemedme."Thomas Holland:" Come, O come, Lord you bright MorningStar!Come,Lord!IdesiretobedissolvedandtobewithJesus,Jesus,you."JohnFlavel:"Iknowthatitwillbewellwithme."AlexanderHenderson:"Iamneartheendofmyrace,hasteninghome,andtherewasneveraschoolboymoredesiroustohavetheplay,thanIamtohaveleaveofthisworld."Thomas Cartwright : "I have found unutterable comfort andhappiness,andGodhasgivenmeaglimpseofheaven."John Locke: "O the depth of the riches of the goodness andknowledgeofGod."JamesEvans:"InJesusIstand."Augustus Toplady: "I believe God never gave suchmanifestations of his love to any creature, and allowedhim tolive."JohnTennent:"WelcomeGodandFather!WelcomesweetLordJesus! Welcome death! Welcome eternity. Amen. Lord Jesus,come,LordJesus."SamuelFinley:"IseetheeternalloveandgoodnessofGod.IseetheloveofJesus.Oh,tobedissolved,andtobewithhim!IlongtobeclothedwiththecompleterighteousnessofChrist."Dr.Waddell:"LordJesus,receivemyspirit."RalphErskine:"Victory,victory,victory."JohnWesley:"Thebestofallis,Godinwithus."FelixNeff:"Adieu,adieu.IamdepartingtoourFatherinperfectpeace.Victory,victory,victory!byJesusChrist."Dr.Bogue: "I am looking to that compassionate Savior,whosebloodcleansesfromallsin."Dr. Nevins: "Death! Death! Now come, Lord Jesus- Dear

Savior."ToDr.Waughonesaid,"YouarenowinthedeepJordan;haveyou any doubt that Christ will be with you?" He replied,"Certainlynot!Whoelse?Whoelse?"D.H.Gillette:"OthatIhadstrengthtoshout!Ifeelsohappy.O,thepreciousSavior;whatistheworldtome?Allitsvanity?GivemeJesus.Donotweepforme,Iamgoinghome."AlexanderProudfit:"Whenwill this lingeringconflictend?Oh,for a speedy and easy transition!Oh for deliverance from thiscorruptible body- this body of sin and death! Come, blessedJesus,dearSavior,come!come!Ilongtodepart."J.H.Rice:"Mercyistriumphant!"Dr.Nettleton:"ItisfittotrustintheLord."Robert Anderson: "Peace! peace! How gracious God is in somakingitallpeace!"ElishaMacurdy:"TheSaviorisallmycomfort."ThomasCranfield:"Afewmoresighs,andthen–"WilberforceRichmond:"TherestwhichChristgivesissweet."Mrs. Hannah More: "Jesus is all in all. God of grace, God oflight, God of love: whom have I in heaven but you? It is agloriousthingtodie."Herlastwordwas,"Joy."Mrs. Isabella Graham: "I have nomore doubt of going tomySavior,thanifIwerealreadyinhisarms.''

Thus, we have presented a few dying sayings of several piousChristianswhopassedtheriverofdeathupheldbydivinegrace.Innumerable other similar casesmight be cited; but these aresufficient to show with what greatmercy and loving kindnesstheLordgenerallydealswithhispeopleinthehourandarticleof death. Although many of God's children have not enjoyedsuchbright,sensiblemanifestationsofhisgraciouspresence intheirdyingmoments- although theymay have gone to heavenunderacloud,yettheirpassageovertheJordanofdeathwasassafeasthatofthemostjoyfulbeliever.

In the matchless dream of Bunyan, we have an admirabledescription of the triumphant passage of the pilgrims over

Jordan.Therewefindthatthemosttimidgotoverassafelyasthe most fearless. The last words of Ready-to-halt were,"Welcome,life."ThelastwordsofFeeble-mindwere,"Holdout,faith and patience." The last words of Despondency were,"Farewell, night! welcome, day!" Even his daughter, Much-afraid, "went through the river singing; but no one couldunderstandwhatshesaid."Buthow transportingwere the lastwordsofMr.Standfast!"Thisriver,"saidhe,"hasbeenaterrortomany;yes, the thoughtsof italsohaveoften frightenedme;butnowmethinksIstandeasy,myfootisfirmeduponthatonwhich the feet of the priests that bare the ark of the covenantstoodwhile Israelwent over Jordan. (Joshua3:17)Thewatersindeedaretothepalatebitter,andtothestomachcold;yetthethoughtsofwhatIamgoingto,andoftheconvoythatwaitsforme on the other side, are as a glowing coal atmy heart. I seemyself now at the end of my journey; my toilsome days areended. I am going to see that head which was crowned withthorns, and that face which was spit upon for me. I haveformerly livedbyhearsayandfaith;butnowIgowhereIshalllivebysight,andshallbe,withhiminwhosecompanyIdelightmyself.IhavelovedtohearmyLordspokenof;andwhereverIhaveseentheprintofhisshoeintheearth,thereIhavecovetedto setmy foot too.His name has been tome sweeter than allperfumes. His voice to me has been most sweet, and hiscountenance I have more desired than those who have mostdesired the lightof thesun.Hiswords Iused togather formyfood, and for antidotes againstmy faintings. He has heldme,and has kept me from my iniquities; yes, my steps has hestrengthenedinhisway."

4. Here we see THE HAPPY TERMINATION OF THECHRISTIAN'S PILGRIMAGE ON EARTH. His sorrowful daysare ended. He has fought the good fight; he has finished hiscourse;hehaskeptthefaith;hehasobtainedthevictory;hehascrossedtheswellingsofJordan,andgonetoreceiveanimmortalcrown.Butwhocandescribetheglorieswhichencirclethesaint,safelylandedonthehappyshoresofImmanuel'sland?

"InvainmyfancystrivestopaintThemomentafterdeath;Thegloriesthatsurroundthesaints,Whenyieldinguptheirbreath.Onegentlesightheirfettersbreaks;Wescarcecansay,They'regone,BeforethewillingspirittakesHermansionnearthethrone."

Now the Christian traveler has reached his everlasting home-that house notmadewith hands, eternal in the heavens. Nowthetryingscenesofeartharepassed,andthewanderer,raisedabovethestormsof life,stepsuponanothershore;heentersaland, blooming with immortality, and illuminated by theeffulgent beams of the Sun of Righteousness. Now he is everwiththeLord.NowheisseatedwithImmanuelonhisheavenlythrone. Now he is arrayed in the shining robes of glory, anddrinksoftheriversofpleasuresatGod'srighthand.

When we contemplate the past suffering condition, and thepresentfelicitousstateofsuchaone,wemaytrulysay–"Theseare the ones coming out of the great tribulation. TheywashedtheirrobesinthebloodoftheLambandmadethemwhite.Thatiswhy theyarestanding in frontof the throneofGod, servinghimdayandnightinhisTemple.Andhewhositsonthethronewillliveamongthemandshelterthem.Theywillneveragainbehungry or thirsty, and they will be fully protected from thescorchingnoontimeheat.For theLambwhostands in frontofthe throne will be their Shepherd. He will lead them to thesprings of life-giving water. And God will wipe away all theirtears."

Ohappyterminationofthepilgrim'sjourneyonearth!Oblessedbeginningofhisfelicityinheaven!

'Tispast-thevoyageoflifeiso'er,

Thewandererhailsanotherclime;Onperilsbornetoyondershore,Heviewsafarthewavesoftime.Thestormthatmutteredo'erhishead,Theflamethatquiveredroundhispath,Aresweetlyhushed;thecloudhasfled,Andgonetheangrylightning'sscath.'Tispast;andgriefischangedtosongsThatangel-cordonslovetohear;Theharpthattodelightbelongs,Insoftestmurmursootheshisear.ForsecretsighsthatrenthisbreastThere'speacetoseraphsonlyknown-Thetearthattoldtheheart,oppressed,Isgemmedupontheeternalthrone.Blessedvoyager!howhappythou,Safemooredwithintheportofpeace;Onceheirofdeath–immortalnow,Ofpain–yourtoilsforevercease.O,mayI,too,thussweetlyrise,Thustreadyonbrightempyreanfree,Withjoyregainthosenativeskies,Secureatlastinlovelikethee."

ThoughtsontheLoveofChrist

PrefaceandIntroductoryEssay

This work is not designed as a systematic treatise, but as ahumbleessayonthegreat,theinexhaustiblesubjectoftheloveofChrist,asmanifestedtoalostworld.Itwascomposedduringalongperiodofrecoveryfrontachronicdisease,whichbroughtthe author to the gates of death, andwell near terminated hislife.Inthepresentessaytheauthorhasendeavoredtonoticeafew ways in which Christ has manifested his great love tosinners.Hisobjectinwritingthisworkistodogood;andshouldthis volumebe themeans of leading any sinner to the blessedJesus,orofkindlingasinglesparkofdivineloveinhisbosom,orevenofrefreshingthesoulofanysaint-ofanimatinghimonhis way to glory- he will feel amply rewarded for the toil ofwritingit,wheninastateofmuchphysical inability;andmostgratefullywouldheascribeall thepraiseandglory toGod.Hecanblessthefeeblest instrument;and,withouthisblessing,allour labors for good must be futile. While the author wouldendeavor to lead others to the Lamb of God, to the bleedingSavior, most humbly would he himself glory in the cross ofChrist."GodforbidthatIshouldglory,saveinthecrossofourLordJesusChrist,bywhomtheworldiscrucifieduntome,andIuntotheworld;"andeverdoeshehopetoproclaimtheloveandset forth the praise of that blessed Redeemer, who left theregionsofglorytoliveanddieforsinners.

"JesusImyShepherd,Husband,friend;MyProphet,Priest,andKing;MyLord,mylife,myway,myend,AcceptthepraiseIbring.Weakistheeffortofmyheart,Andcoldmywarmestthought;

ButwhenIseeyouasyouart,I'llpraiseyouasIought.TillthenIwouldyourloveproclaim,Witheveryfleetingbreath;AndmaythemusicofyournameRefreshmysoulindeath."

Goddesigned from eternity to create thisworld, and people itwithintelligentbeings.Thisdesignwasputintoexecutioninthebeginningof time. "In thebeginning,God created theheavensandtheearth."Hespoke,andthisearth,withallitsmultifariousoccupants, sprung into being. It required nothing but hisalmightyfiattousheraworldanditsinhabitantsintoexistence.ManwascreatedintheimageofGod:hencehewasaholyandahappybeing.

Uncontaminatedbymoralpollution,hissoulwasoneofpurity,holiness and happiness. He was lord of this lower creation,enjoyingthesmilesofhisbeneficentCreator,andthedelightofthe terrestrialparadise.Primevalbeautymantledall sublunaryobjects.Paradisebloomedwith its richestproductions; and allwaspeaceandharmonybetweenmanandhisCreator.Atlengthman disobeyed the divine command; sinned against God, andfellfromhisoriginalblessedness,byeatingtheforbiddenfruit."Byonemansinenteredintotheworld,anddeathbysin;andsodeathpasseduponallmen,forallhavesinned."

Whenwecontrastman'spresentdeplorablecondition,withhispristine state of innocence, we may well exclaim with theProphet, "How is the gold become dim! how is the most finegoldchanged!""Thecrownisfallenfrothourhead:woeuntousthatwehavesinned.''Byhisfall,manlostallcommunionwithGod, andbecame exposed to themiseries of this life, to deathitself,andtothewrathofGodthrougheternity.Fromthissinfuland lost conditionhe couldnot extricatehimself, he couldnotredeem himself, nor pay unto God a sufficient ransom for hismanifold transgressions. A broken law was to be fulfilled, the

justice ofGod tobe satisfied, anda complete atonement to bemadeforthesinsofmen,orelseGodandthesinnercouldneverbereconciled.

Punishment, everlasting punishment and destruction from thepresenceof theLord,andfromthegloryofhispower,awaitedallmankindintheworldofjustretribution.Allwasforlorn;allwashopeless,foreverhopelesswithregardtoman'sredemption,had not God interposed on our behalf; to give unto us anexpectedend.ItwasthegranddesignofGod,fromalleternity,to exhibit amagnificent plan of salvation to a lostworld. Andeverlasting praise and thanksgiving be unto his most blessedname, that the glad tidings of this unspeakably precioussalvationhavereachedourears.

When therewasno eye topity sinners,nor arm to save them,God'seyepitiedandhisarmalonebroughtsalvationtothem.Ininfinitelovetolostandperishingsinners,hesaid,"Deliverthemfromgoingdown to thepit; Ihave found a ransom.'' To everyredeemedsinner,Godsays,"ButIcamebyandsawyouthere,helplesslykickingabout inyourownblood.Asyou lay there, Isaid, 'Live!'AndIhelpedyouto thrive likeaplant in the field.Yougrewupandbecameabeautifuljewel.Yourbreastsbecamefull,andyourhairgrew,thoughyouwerestillnaked.AndwhenI passed by and saw you again, you were old enough to bemarried. So I wrapped my cloak around you to cover yournakednessanddeclaredmymarriagevows. Imadea covenantwithyou,saystheSovereignLord,andyoubecamemine."

Goddidnotleaveallmankindtoperishintheirfallen,miserableand polluted condition. No! his love saved them; his wisdomdevised a way by which we, polluted sinners, might be raisedfromthehorriblepitintowhichouriniquitieshadconsignedus.

"Wheninourbloodwelay,Hewouldnotletusdie;Becausehislovehadfixedaday,

Tobringsalvationnigh."

The glorious plan ofman's salvation originated in the infiniteloveofGod theFather; and in this divineplanof redemption,the most marvelous exhibition of the love of God to hell-deservingsinners isclearlyseen.Here is love, the loveofGod:suchloveitscouldneverhavebeenconceivedof,haditnotbeensoamplyrevealedandmanifestedinthegiftofhisonlybegottenSon."ForGodsolovedtheworld(evenaworldoflostsinners)thathegavehisonlybegottenSon,thatwhoeverbelievesinhimshouldnotperish,buthaveeverlasting life.""Godis love,"andoursalvationisfromtheGodoflove,andisasalvationplannedand executed in deep unfathomable love. "God showed howmuchhelovedusbysendinghisonlySonintotheworldsothatwemighthaveeternallifethroughhim.Thisisreallove.Itisnotthatwe lovedGod, but that he lovedus and sent his Son as asacrificetotakeawayoursins."

WhenwecontemplatethegreatnessofGod'slovetosinners,wearecompelledtopause,andexclaimwiththeadmiringapostle,"BeholdwhatmanneroflovetheFatherhasbestoweduponus,thatweshouldbecalledthesonsofGod."

Oh! the riches of divine grace! Oh! the depths of divine love.How vast, how glorious, and how adequate to the needs ofperishing sinners, is the plan of mercy- of love- of salvation,which God has devised to save a lost world! It manifests thewisdom,thejustice,thepower,but,aboveall,theloveofGod.

"Salvation!whatagloriousplan;Howsuitedtoourneed!ThegracethatraisesfallenmanIswonderfulindeed!'Twaswisdomformedthevastdesign,Toransomuswhenlost;Andlove'sunfathomablemineProvidedallthecost.

Truth,Wisdom,Justice,PowerandLove,Inalltheirgloryshone,WhenJesusleftthecourtsabove,Anddiedtosavehisown."

God has chosen a portion of the human family to be themonuments of his free grace- trophies of his redeeming love;andfor themhehassenthisownSontosufferanddie.Intheprofound depths of infinite love, the mercy of God to a lostworld had its expression. Unsolicited and undeserved, it wasnevertheless extended to lost sinners: sinners, guilty andpolluted,aretheobjectsuponwhichthemercyandloveofGodareprofuselybestowed.LoveisGod'sdarlingattribute,whichhedelights tomanifestmost illustriously; forGod is love.Andhehasmost singularlydisplayedallhis love to sinfulman, in thecontrivanceofhissalvation.

Oh!howimmeasurablygreatwasthatlovewhichsavedaworldfrom ruin, and raised millions of Adam's sons and daughtersfrom eternal death and woe, to everlasting life and felicity!ThanksbeuntoGodforhisunspeakablegift.

The promise of a Great Deliverer, who should emancipatecaptivated man from the thraldom of sin and death, andaccomplishhissalvation,wasearlyconveyedtoourfirstparents.Before their expulsion from Paradise, when all seemed lost, agleamofhopeshonearoundthem.Itwaspromisedthattheseedof the woman should bruise the head of the serpent; that theworksofthedevilshouldbedestroyed.Forthispurpose,theSonofGodwastobemanifestedintheflesh.

Tothepatriarchsthesamepromisewasmoreamplyconveyed.AbrahamgotaglimpseofthedayofChrist,andwasglad.DyingJacob spoke of the coming of a Savior. "The scepter will notdepart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff fromhis descendants,until thecomingof theonetowhomitbelongs, theonewhomallnationswillobey."MosessaidtothechildrenofIsrael,"The

Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me fromamong your fellow Israelites, and you must listen to thatprophet."

Isaiah, wrapped in prophetic vision, eloquently describes theadventandcharacteristicsofthepromisedMessiah."Forachildisborntous,asonisgiventous.Andthegovernmentwillreston his shoulders. These will be his royal titles: WonderfulCounselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.""Beholdavirginshallconceiveandbearason,andshallcallhisname Emmanuel." All the prophets spoke ofHimwhowas tocome into the world to accomplish our salvation; "for thetestimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy." As the timeapproached, the promises of a divine Savior were multiplied."But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of awoman,subjecttothelaw.Godsenthimtobuyfreedomforuswhowereslavestothelaw,sothathecouldadoptusashisveryownchildren."

Lovewas thegrandprinciplewhichprompted theblessedGodto give his Son to die for sinners; and love was the impellingmotive that brought Emmanuel from his throne, to this fallenworld, in order to save the lost. How great, how sublime wasthatschemeofhistosaveaperishingworld!flowvastwasthatlovewhichenabledhimtoexecutethisplan!

TheLoveofChristinComingintotheWorldtoSaveSinners

"This is a true saying, and everyone should believe it: ChristJesuscameintotheworldtosavesinners—andIwastheworstofthemall."1Tim.1:15

The gospel, as the name signifies, denotes glad tidings. This

blessedgospelissenttous:toyou,reader,arethesegladtidingsconveyed. "That Christ Jesus came into the world to savesinners," is the best news that ever fell on the ears of a dyingworld. Life and immortality are brought to light through thisgospelofthegraceofGod.Letusnowcontemplatethegloriouscharacter of our blessedRedeemer, and the lovewhichhehasmanifestedincomingintotheworldtosavesinners.

1. In the person of Christ, the human and divine natures areunited.HisDIVINITY isclearlyasserted in theScriptures.TheRedeemerof lost sinners is theeternalSonofGod-equalwiththe Father, the Creator of the universe, the upholder of allthings.Enduedwith supremepower,he reignsuniversal Lord.All power is given to him, in heaven and earth.Allworlds arehis. All kingdoms are his domain. He made all things. At hiscommand,worlds sprung into being. By his power all createdmatter is upheld in existence.He has caused the sun to shinewith undiminished splendor on our globe for nearly sixthousand years. "Without warning, he moves the mountains,overturning them in his anger. He shakes the earth from itsplace,and its foundations tremble. Ifhecommands it, the sunwon'triseandthestarswon'tshine.Healonehasspreadouttheheavensandmarchesonthewavesof thesea.Hemadeall thestars—the Bear, Orion, the Pleiades, and the constellations ofthe southern sky. His great works are too marvelous tounderstand.Heperformsmiracleswithoutnumber."

Opentheblessedvolume,andreadthefundamentaldoctrineofChristianity,thatChrist,theredeemerofsinners,isGod."Inthebeginning theWordalready existed.HewaswithGod, andhewas God. He was in the beginning with God. He createdeverything there is.Nothingexists thathedidn'tmake." It isamatter of great consolation for the believerwho has entrustedhisimmortalconcernsinthehandsofhisblessedRedeemer,toknowthatheisGodoverall,blessedforever.LethimeverbearinmindthattheSavior,wholoveshimistheonlybegottenSonof God, and bears his very image. He is the brightness of his

Father's glory, and the express image of his person. He isclothedwithdivinemajesty,andpossessesalldivineperfections,andinfiniteexcellences.HeisequalwithGodinallhisgloriousperfections.

Heiscalled"theLordofGlory,"the"Kingofglory,""themightyGod,""Jehovah;"andintheRevelationheisdescribedashavingonhisvesture,andonhisthighanamewritten,"Kingofkings,and Lord of lords." Again, it is said of him that "Christ is thevisibleimageoftheinvisibleGod.HeexistedbeforeGodmadeanythingatallandissupremeoverallcreation.ChrististheonethroughwhomGodcreatedeverythinginheavenandearth.Hemadethethingswecanseeandthethingswecan'tsee—kings,kingdoms,rulers, andauthorities.Everythinghasbeencreatedthrough him and for him. He existed before everything elsebegan,andheholdsall creation together.Christ is theheadofthechurch,whichishisbody.Heisthefirstofallwhowillrisefrom the dead, so he is first in everything. For God in all hisfullnesswaspleasedtoliveinChrist."

ThereisatranscendentlovelinessinthepersonofChrist.Heis"fairer than the children of men:" "the chief among tenthousand;yes,heisaltogetherlovely."Whatgloriousandlovelyattractions center inEmmanuel! Such is the character ofHimwho came into our sin-polluted world, to shed on Calvary hispreciousbloodfortheredemptionofhispeople.

2.Christcame into theworldbybeingmanifested in the flesh,yethelostnothingofhisessentialgloryanddominion.Hewasastruly"thebrightnessofhisFather'sglory,"andtheowneroftheuniverse,wheninthemanger,andonthecross,asheisnowat the right hand of God: "Even the son of man who is inheaven."Yetoutoflovetosinners,hechosetosufferthatglorytobeveiledinhumanity,andhimselftobemadeunderthelawto redeem his people. What amazing love is seen here. "TheWordwasmadeflesh,anddweltamongus.""Godwasmanifestintheflesh."ChristJesuswasintheformofGod,andthoughtit

not robbery to be equal with God; but "He made himselfnothing;hetookthehumblepositionofaslaveandappearedinhumanform."

The coming of Christ was the signal of peace on earth. Hisincarnation was an event of great joy to the world. To theshepherds of Bethlehem, the glad tidings of his birth wereconveyed by an angel of the Lord. To them he proclaimed:"Don'tbeafraid!Ibringyougoodnewsofgreatjoyforeveryone!TheSavior—yes, theMessiah, theLord—hasbeenborn tonightinBethlehem, the city ofDavid!" A new light then burst uponthe world. The glorious Sun of Righteousness, emitting hisresplendentraysuponkingdomsandnationsinvolvedinmoraldarkness, arose to enlighten, to gladden, and to bless ourbenightedplanet.Theprinceofpeacemadehisappearance.Themessengerofreconciliationcame,toreconcilealienatedmantothe friendship of his offended Creator, and fit him for themansionsofglory.

Whensuchamomentouseventhadoccurred,whentheeternalSon of God had invested himself with humanity, and becameboneofourbone,andfleshofourflesh;wellmightthesongofthe heavenly host resound among the hills of Judea,proclaiming,"GlorytoGodinthehighestheaven,andpeaceonearth toallwhomGod favors."ForuntousaSaviorwasborn.Andneverwashumannaturesohighlyhonoredandexaltedaswhen Christ assumed it. What blessings are bestowed uponfallenman,throughtheincarnationoftheSonofGod!Eternityalonecanunfoldthem.

Christ camemostwillingly into theworld to do thewill of hisheavenlyFather.Hiswordswere "Look, Ihavecome.And thishasbeenwrittenaboutmeinyourscroll:Itakejoyindoingyourwill,myGod,foryourlawiswrittenonmyheart."Christofferedhimselfawillingvictimuponthealtarofdivinewrath.Hecameintotheworld.ButOh!wonderfulcondescensionandboundlesslove, that Christ should come into this sinful world. On the

matchlesscondescensionandkindnessofChrist,asmanifestedby his incarnation, a pious writer has the following beautifulremarks: "Earthly princes are only feeble worms; their loftiestelevationisamolehill,andtheirbrightestsplendoravainshow.Yethowrarelydotheydescendfromtheirthrones,tovisitandrelieve those who languish in the abodes of poverty andwretchedness! Inour lowand lost estate JesusChristnotonlysaw and pitied us, but also hastened on the wings of love tobring salvation. He was eternally rich, yet for our sakes hebecamepoor,thatwethroughhispovertymightbemaderich."

Hewasclothedwithlight,andsurroundedwithhostsofhappy,adoring spirits; yet he submitted to put on our nature, andsojourn among guilty, worthless mortals. Herein is love! lovewithout a parallel, love that exceeds description, and passesknowledge!

TheincarnationoftheonlybegottenSonofGodisamysteryofwisdom and love, in which all our thoughts ought to beabsorbed,andallourheartswith it shouldbeenraptured.Thewonders of the vast universe, could they be collected andpresentedtous inoneview,would loseall theirattractionanddwindle into insignificance,werewesteadfastlytocontemplatethe marvelous condescension of the Redeemer, manifested inthehumiliationtowhichhesubmittedonouraccount.

WhenheexchangedhisthroneforthemangerofBethlehem,theshininghostof heaven burst into that sublime song, "Glory toGodinthehighestheaven,andpeaceonearthtoallwhomGodfavors."Hereiscondescensionwhichwecouldnothavebelievedpossible, had it not been so clearly and amply revealed. Thekindness and love of God our Savior towards man, appearedwithpre-eminentlusterinthewholeofthatgreatworkwhichheundertook toperform for their salvation.Howardentwas thatlovewhichbroughttheeverblessedSonofGodfromheaventoearth, thathemight save sinners.Whatbut infinite love couldhaveinducedhimtocomeintotheworld-tobemadesinforus-

tobearoursinsinhisownbody,thatwemightbereconciledtoGod, and be brought at last into the everlasting mansions ofglory;tobeeverwiththeLord.

JesusChristisloveitselfembodiedinahumanform:thatformonceappearedonourearth,andtrodthethornypathwayfromthemangertothecross,tillitwasseentobleed,andgroan,anddie,onCalvary,forsinnersasvileasweare!Reader!haveyouasaving interest inthatgreatworkwhichChrist,bycoming intothe world, has finished? Are you deeply interested in hisatonement,andrighteousness? Ishis loveshedabroad inyourheart?Isheunspeakablyprecioustoyou?For,saystheApostle,"untoyouthereforewhobelieve,heisprecious."Canyouadoptthelanguageofthepoet,andsweetlysing,"Sweetersoundsthanmusicknows,CharmmeinEmmanuel'snameAllherhopesmyspiritowesTohisbirth,andcross,andshame.Whenhecame,theangelssung'GlorybetoGodonhigh!'Lord,unloosemystammeringtongue;WhoshallloudersingthanI!"-Newton

Byhiscoming into theworldandaccomplishingoursalvation,Christhasopenedthegatesof thecelestialcity, throughwhichredeemedsinnersmaynowpassintomansionsofeternalbliss.O sinner, the gates of Paradise are now wide open for yourreception; enter in and be saved. The arms of Christ are nowstretched from heaven for your relief. Look up, then, withconfidence to your loving Savior.Henow calls upon you fromhis eternal throne, "For there is no other God but me—a justGodandaSavior—no,notone!Letalltheworldlooktomeforsalvation!ForIamGod;thereisnoother."

Sinner,haveyoulookedtoChristforsalvation?Inhimyouwillfind an everlasting salvation. Everlasting salvation! preciouswords!ItisthegiftofGod,throughJesusChristourLord.Inthe

incarnation of the Son of God,we behold immeasurably greatlovemanifestedtosinners.Withloveunparalleled,hedescendstothissinfulworld,andlivesanddiesfortheredemptionofhispeople.Loveledhimtoforsaketheregionsofglory,forthisdarkabodeofsinandsuffering."Nothingbroughthimfromabove,Nothingbutredeeminglove."

O, what love is here manifested to a guilty, rebellious world!"YouknowhowfullofloveandkindnessourLordJesusChristwas. Though he was very rich, yet for your sakes he becamepoor,sothatbyhispovertyhecouldmakeyourich."

Butwhydidhe thusveilhisglory inhumanity, andcome intothis world? It was to save sinners. "This is a true saying, andeveryoneshouldbelieve it:ChristJesuscameintotheworldtosavesinners—andIwastheworstofthemall."

3.TosavesinnerswastheveryobjectforwhichMessiahlefthisthrone;forwhichtheSonofGodbecameincarnate."Ihavenotcometocalltherighteous,butsinnerstorepentance.""TheSonofmanhascometoseekandtosavethosewhoarelost."WhenChristveiledhisglory,andlefttheregionsofbliss,itwastosavesinners.Whenheassumedmortalflesh,andbecameasufferingman,itwastosavesinners.Whenhebledanddiedonthecross,itwastosavesinners.Whenheburstthefettersofdeath,andinaglorifiedformascendedtoheaven,itwastosavesinners;andnowthatheissatdownattherighthandofthethroneofGod,heisstillcarryingonhisblessedworkofsavingsinners.

It was infinite love that brought Christ into the world to savesinners. What amazing love is here displayed! In man'sredemptiontheloveofChristshineswithpre-eminentluster!InhisloveChristcametosavesinners,andmostwillinglydoeshereceiveeventhevilestsinnerthatcomestohimforsalvation.

Haveyouyet fledforrefugetotheworld'sRedeemer?There is

butonerefugeprovided fora lostworld–Christ is that refuge.Hesheltersallthatcometohim.Inhimiseternalsafety.Happyarethey,whosehopesarefixedonhim–theyaresafe.Thoughall around them are changes and fluctuations, yet their rest ispitched aloft, far above this sphere of changing and perishingmortality. Onward and heavenward will be their course, andglorious will be their destiny! When Christ shall appear, theyshallappearwithhiminglory!

Animatedbythehopeof immortality, lookwithholycontemptupon the world and all its delusive pleasures. Let a joyfuleternitybeeverinyourview.ChooseChristasyourSaviorandportion, and heavenwill be your home. Youwill quickly glideoverthetempestuousseaoflife,andlandon"thepeacefulshoreof blest eternity." Come, O sinner! come and entrust yoursalvationtotheblessedJesus,whocametosavesinners.Hewillnoteastyouout."AllthattheFathergivesmewillcometome,and whoever comes tome I will never drive away." He has awilling ear to hear your cry; a willing heart to receive you;willingarmstoembraceyou;almightylowertosaveyou.

Odonot refuse theLord of glory!Donot contemn the gospelmessageoflove.BeholdyourlovingSavior!Seewhataninteresthe has taken in your eternalwelfare. See him laying aside therobesofhisgloryforyou.Seehim,thoughhigh,becominglow;though rich, becoming poor for you! and see him coming intothis world to save you. Attend to his gracious calls. Seek himinstantly.May the sweet influences of Christ's redeeming loveconstrain you to come and partake of the joys of salvation.SalvationbyChrist!Blessedgospel;wellmayyoubestyledgladtidingsofgreatjoy!

Inaword,Ibeseechyou,dearreader,asyouvaluethehappinessofyourimmortalsoulandtheblissofeternity,tomakesureofyoursalvation."Behold,nowis theacceptedtime;behold,nowisthedayofsalvation."Tomorrowmaybetoolate.Tomorrow'ssunmaysetuponyourgrave.Now"SeektheLordwhileyoucan

findhim.Callonhimnowwhileheisnear.Letthepeopleturnfromtheirwickeddeeds.Letthembanishfromtheirmindstheverythoughtofdoingwrong!LetthemturntotheLordthathemay have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he willabundantlypardon."

"Come,lepers,seizethepresenthour,TheSavior'sgracetoproveHecanrelieve,forhehaspower;Hewill,forheislove."-Newton

TheLoveofChrist,asManifestedinHisSufferingsandDeath

"Greaterlovehasnoonethanthis,thathelaydownhislifeforhisfriends."John15:13

"Religion!youarethesoulofhappiness;AndgroaningCalvary,ofyou!ThereshineThenoblesttruths;therestrongestmotivessting;Theresacredviolenceassaultsthesoul;Therenothingbutcompulsionisforborne.Youmyall!Mytheme!myinspiration,andmycrown!Mystrengthinage!myriseinlowestate!Mysoul'sambition,pleasure,wealth;myworldMylightindarkness,andmylifeindeath!Myboastthroughtime!blissthrougheternity!Eternityistooshorttospeakyourpraise,Orfathomyourprofoundoflovetoman!Tomanofmenthelowest,eventome!Mysacrifice!myGod!Whatthingsarethese!Theytalkofmorals!ObleedingLove!Youmakerofnewmoralstomankind!

ThegrandmoralityislovetoYou!"

In the death of Christ, we behold the most astonishingexhibitionofdivinelovethathaseverbeenmanifestedtoalostworld. Such love as is here displayed without a precedent;without a parallel in the annals of time or in the records ofeternity.TobeholdtheSonofGod,theMakerofworlds,bowinghisheadonthecross,andyieldinguphisimmaculatesoulamidtheagoniesofdeath,isthemostwonderful,themostaffecting,themostmeltingsightthatmortalseverwitnessed!AroundtheCrossofChrist thereshine themost resplendent raysofdivinelovethateverbeamedfromtheSunofRighteousness-thateveremanatedfromtheDeity!

Here then is the brightest display of love, that Christ hasmanifestedtoaworldofperishingsinners."Greaterlovehasnoonethanthis,thathelaydownhislifeforhisfriends."But,oh!amazinglove!thatChristbreathedouthispreciouslife,pouredouthisholysouluntodeath,forhisenemies,fortheungodly,forsinners. "You see, at just the right time, when we were stillpowerless,Christdied for theungodly.Very rarelywill anyonedieforarighteousman,thoughforagoodmansomeonemightpossiblydaretodie.ButGoddemonstrateshisownloveforusin this:Whilewewere still sinners, Christ died for us." Christdiedtosavesinners!withouthisdeath,theirsalvationcouldnothavebeenaccomplished.Withoutthesheddingofblood,thereisno remission; and without the shedding of Christ's preciousblood,notasinglesinnercouldhavebeensaved.ThesalvationofcountlessmillionswassuspendedonthedeathofChrist;but,inlove,hediedtosavethem!

Herewemaybehold a little of the vastness of that lovewhichcannotbemeasured,andwhichcannotbetold.TheSavior'slovemetdeathitselftotheface,andtriumphedoverthegrave.O,mysoul, look and wonder! Behold your Savior bleeding on thecross;bleedingfromeverypore,thatyoursinsmightbewashedaway in the flowingstream!Seehimpouringouthissoulunto

death,foryoursalvation;andask,Isnotthisamanifestationofunparalleledlovetoyou?

O, blessed Jesus! we come far short of comprehending thegreatnessofyourdyinglove.Itisagreatdeep.Itisafathomlessocean. May we contemplate more and more this mystery ofdivinelove!

Christ'ssufferinganddyingforusisagreatmystery,amysteryofunfathomablelove.HowvehementwastheloveofChrist,thatledhimtoenduredeathinitsmostterribleform,eventhedeathofthecross!"Loveisstrongasdeath;thecoalsthereofarecoalsof fire,whichhasamostvehementflame.Manywaterscannotquenchlove;neithercanthefloodsdrownit."SuchistheloveofChrist.Allthewatersofafflictionandsuffering;allthebillowsofdivine wrath that rolled over our blessed Redeemer, were notsufficienttoquenchtheardencyofthatlovewhichhefeltforadyingworldofsinners.Itwillendurethroughtime.Itwillshinewith undiminished splendor, and glow brighter and brighterthrougheternity.

Oh! the infinite love of the Son of God, to shed his preciousbloodforsinners.TheloveofChrist,indyingforsinners,passesallknowledge.It is immeasurable. It isas incomprehensibleasthedurationofeternity. It is as illimitable asboundless space."Suchknowledgeishigherthantheheavens—butwhoareyou?It is deeper than the underworld—what can you know incomparisontohim?Itisbroaderthantheearthandwiderthanthe sea." O love divine! where are your limits? Great God!beyondthesightofmortals,andofangels?Thestupendoussun,thebrilliantmoon,theblazingstars,theextendedearth–thesehavetheirbounds,buthislovehasnone!

Liftupyoureyes,andbeholdthisvastworld,theproductofhispower! See its continents, and its oceans extending forthousandsofmiles:thesecontinentsmaybemeasured;butnothislove;who,thoughGod,becameman,todieforman.Sooner

wouldthoseunfathomableoceansbefathomed,thanthedepthsofhiscompassion!

Liftupyoureyestotheheavens!Surveythecountlessgloriesofthestarryfirmament;allitsfixedormovingworldsoflight!Letyour thoughts rove from star to star. How great is he whoformed them all! How glorious he who bids them shine withundiminished splendor through six thousand years, and towhomtheyareinconsequentialasaspeckofflyingdust!Yethewho hung out those brilliant fires stooped from his amazingheightofblissandmajesty,toassumemortalflesh,andappearafeebleinfantandasufferingman.Farsoonercouldyoumeasuretheir immeasurable distances, and count their countlessnumbers,thantellallthevastnessofhislove,andtheblessingsitbestows.Thesunisdarknesscomparedwithhissuperiorglorywhohungitintheheavens!Andyethehumbledhimselftothedarkabodesofmiseryanddeathforguiltyman.

O!whenyougazeupon theblue expanse, orwhen the solemnstillness of night banishes from your mind the thoughts of avain, departingworld;when you behold themidnight sky andmarkthethousandsofitsglowingfires;thenthinkthathewhofixedthemthereoncehungonCalvary foryou, thatyoumightshineastar,asun,inheaven,whenallthosestarsshallshinenomore.Thinkthathewasoncehumbledanddishonored,stainedwithblood,andbluewithblows,thatyoumighthaveatreasuregreater than a thousand united worlds, and infinitely morelasting than the countless lights which illuminate the skies.Amazinglove!

Herewemustpause,andwonder,andpraise,andadore;andinthemidstofouradoration,exclaim,Lord!whatisman,thatyouaremindful of him; and the son ofman, that you should thusvisithim?OblessedJesus!youvisitedusinlove-ingreatmercy.You bled your life's blood, thatwemight bewashed from oursinsinthatbloodofinfinitevirtue.Youdied,thatwemightlive.You wore a crown of thorns, that we might wear a crown of

glory,andshineasstarsinheavenforever.

Oh! to knowmore andmore about the dying love of the LordJesus!TheheartofJesusisnothingbutaheartoflove:lovetosinners,eventhechief.IthasbeenwellremarkedbyMaclaurin,that"werealltheloveofallthementhateverwereorshallbeontheearth,andalltheloveofalltheangelsinheaven,unitedinoneheart,itwouldbeacoldheartcomparedtothatwhichwaspiercedwith the soldier's spear."Oh, loving,bleedingLambofGod! come, wash us in that blood which flowed from yourwounded heart, from your pierced side; which streamed fromCalvary, a fountain of overflowing, inexhaustible depths ofredeemingblood!"OnthatdayafountainwillbeopenedforthedynastyofDavidandforthepeopleofJerusalem,afountaintocleanse them from all their sins and defilement." Blessed beGod! that fountain has been opened these eighteen hundredyears,andisasinexhaustibleasever.

Ho!everyonethatthirsts,cometothewaters;andhethathasnomoney, come, buy and eat; yes, come, buywine andmilk–withoutmoney andwithout price."What stupendous love hasChrist here manifested, in washing away the sins of a lostmultitude inhisownmostpreciousblood.Wellmayredeemedsinners shout in songs of praise to their adorable Redeemer,"Untohimthatlovedus,andwashedusfromoursinsinhisownblood, and has made us kings and priests unto God and hisFather; unto him be glory and dominion forever and ever.Amen." "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power,andriches,andwisdom,andstrength,andhonor,andglory,andblessing!"

Oh!theinfiniteefficacyofthebloodofChristtocleansefromallsin– "The blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sin."Through the blood of Christ, pardon and peace flow to guiltysinners. "Inwhomwehave redemption throughhis blood, theforgivenessofsins,accordingtotherichesofhisgrace.""Christdied for our sins, according to the Scriptures." "Through this

man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins." "Hemadepeace through the blood of his cross." Precious blood thatredeemsusfrometernalmisery,andbringsustoGod!"ButnowyoubelongtoChristJesus.ThoughyouoncewerefarawayfromGod, now you have been brought near to him because of thebloodofChrist."

Oh! costly price of man's redemption- the precious blood ofChrist."ForyouknowthatGodpaidaransomtosaveyoufromthe empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And theransomhepaidwasnotmeregoldorsilver.Hepaidforyouwiththe precious lifeblood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb ofGod."O,mysoul! lookwithastonishmentat thepricepaid foryourredemption-theinfinitelypreciousbloodofChrist!

Dear reader, lookand live!Lookat theblessedJesus,bleedinganddyingonthecrossforyoursins."AndasMosesliftedupthebronzesnakeonapoleinthewilderness,soI,theSonofMan,mustbelifteduponapole,sothateveryonewhobelievesinmewillhaveeternallife.""UponthecrossIseehimbleed,Andbythesightfromguiltamfreed:Thissightdestroysthelifeofsin,Andquickensheavenlylifewithin."

AbleedingSavior,seenbyfaith,isthesightthatgivespeacetotheguilty, heavy-laden soul. It is thebloodofChrist sprinkledupon the conscience, that makes peace between God and thesinner.

ButwhatintensesufferingsourdivineRedeemerendured,whenhe"boreoursinsinhisownbody;"whenhewasmadetobesinfor us; when he suffered, the just for the unjust. As oursubstitute, he endured thewrath of God, and suffered for oursins. It was infinite love that led the blessed Son of God toendureallthesesufferings,and,atlasttosubmittothepainfuldeathofthecross.

How brightly did that love shine in the last hours of his life,whenhewasabout tobleedonCalvary!Whatbut infinite loveled him to the garden of Gethsemane, to endure that bitteragony; when he said, "My soul is exceeding sorrowful untodeath,"andwhere"hissweatwasasitweregreatdropsofbloodfallingdowntotheground!"

Whatbutinfiniteloveledhimtothejudgmenthall,theretobederided,condemnedtodeath,andcrownedwiththorns;where"his visage was so marred more than any man, and his formmorethanthesonsofmen!''WhatbutinfinitelovebroughthimtoCalvary'smount,theretohangasuffering,bleedingvictimonthecross,foroursins!

There isnothingthatslowsthe loveofChrist likeCalvary.It istherethatalltheraysofdivineloveareblendedtogether.InthatdarkhourinwhichourSaviorhungonthecross,heshowedtothe world that his love was stronger dean death: these heexhibitedmore human love; hemanifested the infinite love ofGod.Amidallhissufferings,divineloveshonewiththegreatestluster.WhocantellwhatloveChristfeltforalostworldwhenhesuffered on the cross? Then he was about to accomplish oursalvation;andhislovebecamestrongerandstronger.Thoughhegrappled with the powers of darkness, yet his arm broughtsalvation.Heendured thehidingsofhisFather'scountenance,until he was led to exclaim, in the bitterness of his soul, "MyGod,myGod,whyhaveyouforsakenme?"

But he made an end of sin, and brought in an everlastingrighteousness;andamidthelaststrugglesofhisholysoul,therefellfromhislipsindyingaccents,thesemostblessedwords-themostjoyfuleverconveyedtoasinner'sear,"Itisfinished!"Yes,yoursalvation,sinner, isaccomplishedby thiswondrousdeathbythatdivinepersonagewhoenduredit.

O, look at this exhibition of love! Was there ever such love

manifestedtoalostworld,asisheredisplayedbeforeyoureyes?Reader, contemplate Christ crucified. How intently was themind of the great apostle fixed on this prolific theme! Hislanguage to the Corinthians is, "I determined not to knowanything among you, except Jesus Christ and him crucified."YoualsomaylooktowardsCalvary,andwiththesameapostle,exclaim,"GodforbidthatIshouldboast,except in thecrossofourLordJesusChristbywhomtheworld iscrucifieduntome,andIuntotheworld."BlessedJesus!wecannotcomprehendthevastnessofyourdyinglove!

"The propitiatory death of Christ," says Thornton, "viewed byfaith, fills and absorbs themind, touches andmelts the heart,raisesandrefinestheaffections,andcompletelytransformsthewholecharacter.""Thisisreallove.ItisnotthatwelovedGod,butthathelovedusandsenthisSonasasacrificetotakeawayour sins." "For Christ's love compels us, because we areconvinced that onedied for all, and therefore all died.Andhedied for all, that those who live should no longer live forthemselves but for him who died for them and was raisedagain."

Isitsurprising,then,thatChristshouldbeprecioustobelievers?Can we see his matchless condescension, in stooping from athrone of glory, to a cross of suffering and shame; can weunderstand the great end of his amazing humiliation andvicariousdeath;canwefeelthesprinklingofhispeace-speakingblood upon the conscience, and not love, adore, and magnifyhim?"Oyoucold-hearted,frozenformalists!onsuchathemeitis impious to be calm. Passion is reason, transport istemperance,here."

What can elevate and rejoice the soul, if it remainsunaffectedwiththehighestmanifestationsofeternal love?InthedeathofChrist, the power, wisdom, justice, and mercy of God, shineforth in full unclouded splendor.What language can,withdueforce,expressthetenderandlivelyemotionswhichspringupin

the Christian's breast as he silently muses on the delightfulsubjectofredeeminglove?

OGod!what isman,thatyouaremindfulofhim?YoudidnotevenspareyourownSon,butfreelydeliveredhimupforusall.WhoamI, that suchapriceshouldbepaid formyransom?Itwas not with silver and gold, and corruptible things, that mysoulwasredeemed,butbythepreciousbloodofChrist,asofalamb without blemish and without spot. Why, blessed andadorableSavior,didyoulookincompassiononme,aworthlessworm,avileapostate,ahelldeservingrebel?Ohowismysoullostinadmirationanddelight,whenIcontemplatethismystery!May your love ever glow inmy heart, and your praise on mytongue!MayIwhollylivetoyou,whohasdiedforme.

"Oh,wondrouslove!tobleedanddieTobearthecrossandshame;Thatguiltysinners,suchasI,Mightpleadyourgraciousname."

The death of Christ delivers us from condemnation. When asinner, by faith, obtains a sight of the crucifiedOne,heboldlyexclaimsinthefaceofallhisenemies,"Whothenwillcondemnus?WillChristJesus?No,forheistheonewhodiedforusandwas raised to life for us and is sitting at the place of highesthonornexttoGod,pleadingforus."Byhisdeathhehassatisfieddivinejustice,andreconciledustoGod;and"thereisthereforenownocondemnationtothosewhoareinChristJesus.""Beingjustified by faith, we have peace with God through our LordJesusChrist;"andbeingnowjustifiedbyhisblood,weshallbesaved from wrath through him. "When we were enemies, wewerereconciled toGodby thedeathofhisSon."O, tohaveaninterest in thatatonementwhichChristmadeforoursins!"Bywhomwehavenowreceivedtheatonement."

Reader, I would not lead you to Sinai, but to Calvary- to theSavior'sbleedingside.IwouldpointyoutothecrossofChrist;

tohim,who,inhisgreatlove,oncesuffered,andbled,anddiedfor sinners. I would direct you to the bleeding Lamb of God,"whotakesawaythesinoftheworld."Mayyoubeholdhimwiththeeyeoffaith;evenHimwhosolovedyou,thathelaiddownhisownlifeforyou.ThenshallthepeaceofGod,whichpassesall understanding, fill your heart. Then shall heavenly joyspossessyourrenewedspirit;andoneunbrokenstrainofpraiseshall, through time and eternity, arise from your purified,exalted, and enraptured soul, to Him who loved you, andwashedyoufromyoursinsinhisownblood.LookatJesusnow.Havefaithinhisatoningblood.EndeavortoobtainaglimpseofthebleedingSavior.

"AbleedingSavior,seenbyfaith,Asenseofpardoninglove;Ahopethattriumphsoverdeath,Givejoyslikethoseabove,Totakeaglimpsewithintheveil;ToknowthatGodismine;Arespringsofjoythatneverfail,Unspeakable!divine!"

The sufferings and death of the Son of God afford the mostillustriousexhibitionofdivinelovethathaseverbeendisplayedon this terrestrial globe. Here is exhibited love, such as neverbefore shone on earth; love, surpassing human thought andcomprehension.Truly,heretheloveofChristpassesknowledge!What wonderful love and condescension are here manifested!Christdyingforsinners!TheSonofGodnailedtothecrossforsinners! The blood of Emmanuel flowing from Calvary forsinners! Our blessed Savior, "Though he was God, he did notdemand and cling to his rights as God. He made himselfnothing;hetookthehumblepositionofaslaveandappearedinhuman form. And in human form he obediently humbledhimselfevenfurtherbydyingacriminal'sdeathonacross."O,wonderfullovethatmadetheonlybegottenSonofGodlaydownhislifeforsinners!

"That such a person as Christ," says Vincent, "so excellent, soinnocent;shouldundergodeath,andsuchadeathasthatofthecross, sodisgraceful, sopainful; thathe should submit to suchignominy,andenduresuchagony,suchtearingofhisflesh,suchpressure in his spirit, with such submission and patience, forstrangersandenemies!Herewaslove,strongerthandeath.Oh!thesleight,oh!thedepthofthislove!Therearesuchdimensionsinthis love ofChrist, as the longest line of ourmost extendedthoughts and imaginations can never be able to reach andmeasure."

Whatamazing lovedidChristmanifest,whenhe,whowas thebrightnessofhisFather's glory, exchanged that crownof glorywhichhewore inheaven, for a crown of thorns on earth, andbled,anddiedonthecrossforguiltyman!Sinner,"BeholdtheLamb of God!" Contemplate your divine Redeemer, who hasshedhispreciousbloodtosaveyoursoulfrometernalmisery.Inlovehediedtosaveyou.O,then,contemplatethislovingSaviorinhissufferingsanddeath!

"Thinkhowonthecrosshehung,Piercedwithathousandwounds!Hark,fromeach,aswithatongue,Thevoiceofpardonsounds!See,fromallhisburstingveins,Bloodofwondrousvirtueflow!Shedtowashawayyourstains,Andransomyoufromwoe."

Sinner,fleetoChrist.Hewillreceiveyoujoyfully,andsaveyouwithaneverlastingsalvation.Hewillrejoiceoveryouwithgreatjoy.HeisalovingSavior,andhelovestosavesinners."Hewaswillingtodieashamefuldeathonthecrossbecauseofthejoyheknewwouldbehisafterward(thejoyofsavingsinners).Nowheis seated in the place of highest honor beside God's throne inheaven." "Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save

everyone who comes to God through him. He lives forever topleadwithGodontheirbehalf."

Come, now, and put your trust in this Savior. Leavewith himyourimmortalconcerns.Entrustfearlesslyyourwholesalvationtohim.Donotthinkthathewillrejectyou,ifyouattempttocastyour sin-burdened soul into his compassionate arms. Hisatonement is all-sufficient. He saves to the very uttermost.Despair not– only come and commit your soul to Christ, andsalvationisyours.

There is an infinite efficacy in the precious blood of Christ, tocleanse you from all sin. Blessed be God! that blood whichwashes away the deepest stains, has been shed; and thatatonement which expiates the greatest guilt, has been made.God now says to us, in language the most strong andencouraging, "I have swept away your sins like the morningmists.Ihavescatteredyouroffensesliketheclouds.Oh,returntome,forIhaveredeemedyou."

Inthecontemplationofoursalvation,wellmayweexclaimwiththe prophet, "Sing, O heavens, for the Lord has done thiswondrous thing. Shout, O earth! Break forth into song, Omountains and forests and every tree! For the Lord hasredeemedJacobandisglorifiedinIsrael."

BlessedJesus! It is fromyourdeath thatwederive eternal lifeandblessedness.Howshouldourheartsglowwith lovetoyou,andsoundwiththehighpraisesofourGod!"Iamoverwhelmedwith joy in theLordmyGod! For hehas dressedmewith theclothingofsalvationanddrapedmeinarobeofrighteousness.Iam like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with herjewels."

Reader, are you deeply interested in the atonement andrighteousness of Christ? Then go forward in your pilgrimagejourneywith joy; leaninguponJesus, thebelovedofyoursoul.

"Livealifefilledwithlove,followingtheexampleofChrist,wholovedyouandgavehimselfasasacrificetotakeawayyoursins.And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweetperfume to him." "....Christ loved the church and gave himselfupforhertomakeherholy,cleansingherbythewashingwithwater through the word, and to present her to himself as aradiant church,without stain orwrinkle or any other blemish,butholyandblameless."

With their robeswashedwhite in the blood of theEmmanuel,investedwithhisspotless,perfectrighteousness,thesaintsshallat last be presented before God, a faultless church; and theredeeming love of Christ constituting their unending theme,shall engage their enlarged and exalted faculties, and employtheir ransomed souls in holy meditations through theeverlastingsabbathofeternity.

Sinner, resort immediately to the fountain of the Redeemer'sblood,whileitisyetopen.Come,withoutdelay:"Wash,andbeclean.""TheSpiritandthebridesay,"Come."Leteachonewhohearsthemsay,"Come."Letthethirstyonescome—anyonewhowants to. Let them come and drink the water of life withoutcharge."Ifyouthuscometothefountainoflivingwater,youwillbeabletoadoptthelanguageofCowper,andsay–

There is a fountain filled with blood drawn from Emmanuel'sveins;And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all their guiltystains.Losealltheirguiltystains,losealltheirguiltystains;And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all their guiltystains.

Thedyingthiefrejoicedtoseethatfountaininhisday;AndtherehaveI,thoughvileashe,washedallmysinsaway.Washedallmysinsaway,washedallmysinsaway;AndtherehaveI,thoughvileashe,washedallmysinsaway.

DeardyingLamb,ThypreciousbloodshallneverloseitspowerTillalltheransomedchurchofGodbesaved,tosinnomore.Besaved,tosinnomore,besaved,tosinnomore;TillalltheransomedchurchofGodbesaved,tosinnomore.

E'ersince,byfaith,IsawthestreamThyflowingwoundssupply,Redeeminglovehasbeenmytheme,andshallbetillIdie.AndshallbetillIdie,andshallbetillIdie;Redeeminglovehasbeenmytheme,andshallbetillIdie.

Theninanobler,sweetersong,I'llsingThypowertosave,When this poor lisping, stammering tongue lies silent in thegrave.Liessilentinthegrave,liessilentinthegrave;When this poor lisping, stammering tongue lies silent in thegrave.

Lord,IbelieveThouhastprepared,unworthythoughIbe,Formeabloodboughtfreereward,agoldenharpforme!'Tis strung and tuned for endless years, and formed by powerdivine,TosoundinGodtheFather'searsnoothernamebutThine.

THELOVEOFCHRISTCONTEMPLATED

"AndtoknowtheloveofChrist."Eph.3:19

OnnoothersubjectdidthemindoftheapostlePauldwellwithsomuchdelight,asonthatoftheredeemingloveofChrist.Thiswashis favorite theme. Itwashis ardentdesire to exhibit to a

lost world, the grace of the Lord Jesus, which had been soabundantlymanifestedtohimself,onceagreatsinner.Itwasthelove of Christ that sustained him amid all his trials, anddistresses, and persecutions, and enabled him to finish agloriouscareer.NeitherthethreatsoftheJews,northeterroroftheRomans, could separate him from the love ofChrist, or intheleastabatehiszealforspreadingthenewsofsalvation,andthewondersofredeeminglovethroughalostworld.

WritingtotheRomans,heboldlyexclaims,"Whoshallseparateus from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship orpersecutionorfamineornakednessordangerorsword?Asitiswritten: 'For your sake we face death all day long; we areconsideredassheeptobeslaughtered.'No,inallthesethingswearemorethanconquerorsthroughhimwholovedus.ForIamconvinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nordemons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,neitherheightnordepth,noranythingelse inall creation,willbeabletoseparateusfromtheloveofGodthatisinChristJesusourLord."

The same apostle, writing to the Ephesians, desires and praysthat Christmay dwell in their hearts by faith, that they beingrootedandgroundedinlove,"maybeabletocomprehendwithallsaintswhatisthebreadth,andlength,anddepth,andheight;andtoknowtheloveofChrist,whichpassesknowledge."

LetuscontemplatetheloveofChristinallitsextent,andinallitsvastness.When did it commence? In the past eternity. TheloveofChristtohispeopleextendsfrometernity.Thoughitwasmanifestedintime,yetitexistedfrometernity."ThenIwasbyhim as one brought up with him, and I was daily his delight,rejoicingalwaysbeforehim;rejoicinginthehabitablepartofhisearth,andmydelightswerewiththesonsofmen."Christsaystoeachof his chosenones, "I have loved youwith an everlastinglovetherefore,withlovingkindnesshaveIdrawnyou."

Oh!wonderful thought,everlasting love!Whocancomprehendtheimportofthesewords–everlastinglove?Christlovesus,andhisloveiseverlasting.Yes,dearbeliever,Christlovedyoubeforethe world was created; before you had an existence. From alleternityhethoughtuponyourlostconditionbynature;andoh!how willingly, how gladly, he left the throne of glory to bringsalvationtoyou.His loveneverhadabeginning."Thisriveroflovebegantoflowbeforetheworldwas;fromeverlasting,fromthebeginning,beforeevertheearthwas.Christ'slovetousisasoldas theFather's love to theSon.This riverof lightbegan tostream from Jesus towards us, before the beams poured fromthesun;beforetheriversflowedtotheocean;beforeangellovedangel,ormanlovedman:beforecreatureswere,Christlovedus.This is a great mystery; who can fathom it? This love passesknowledge."(McCheyne)

The love of Christ will reach into eternity; will extendthroughout its immeasurable ages it has no end. This is thesweetdeclarationofChrist,withregardtohislove,that"Forthemountainsmaydepartandthehillsdisappear,buteventhenIwill remain loyal toyou.Mycovenantofblessingwillneverbebroken,"saystheLord,whohasmercyonyou."

O,tobeamongthathappynumber,whowillenjoyinheaventheeternalfavorofChrist'slove,whichwillmakeeternityitselfonejoyousuncloudeddayofeverlastinglightandimmortalfelicity!Blessed Jesus! Give us a saving interest in your unchangingloving-kindness,whichisbetterthanlife.O,letonerayofyourmostwonderfullovelightonourbenightedhearts:softenthembythemanifestationofyourgrace.

Of thevastnessof the loveofChrist,wecan formnoadequateconceptions; much less can we, by any power of theunderstanding,comprehendit.TousetheemphaticlanguageofRutherford,"it isasifachildcouldtaketheglobeofearthandsea in his two short arms." The love of Christ is like a greatocean,whosedepthsareunfathomable.Thereisaheightinthis

love,towhichnohumanintelligencecansoar;adepthwhichnocreatedmindcanpenetrate.InviewingtheloveofChrist,therelies a wide unbounded prospect before us. The mental visionwandersatlibertyoverthisillimitablerange.TheloveofChristiscircumscribedbynolimits;itisboundedbynohorizon:it isone vast expanse in which the soulmay lose itself in wonder,delight,andadmiration.

The pious McCheyne, whom we have already quoted, has thefollowing beautiful remarks on the love of Christ– "Paul says:'TheloveofChristpassesknowledge.'Itisliketheblueskyintowhich youmay see clearly, but the real vastness ofwhich youcannotmeasure.Itislikethedeep,deepsea,intowhosebosomyoucanlookalittleway,butitsdepthsareunfathomable.Ithasa breadth without a bound, length without top, and depthwithoutbottom.IfholyPaulsaidthis,whowassodeeplytaughtindivinethings;whohadbeeninthethirdheaven,andseentheglorifiedfaceofJesus;howmuchmoremaywe,poorandweakbelievers,lookintothatlove,andsay,Itpassesknowledge!"

IfwecannotcomprehendtheloveofChrist;ifwecannotfathomit,letuscontemplateandadmireit.ItwastheloveofChristthatledhimtoassumehumannature, inorderthathemightsufferanddie,andthusatoneforthesinsofhispeople.Itwasthislovethat induced him to leave the bosom of his Father, and theadoration of the angelic host, and to sojourn among guilty,worthlessmortals.

ItwaslovethatledhimtoexchangethethroneofgloryforthemangerofBethlehemandthecrossofCalvary.Itwaslovethatmadehiswhole life, fromthemanger to thecross,oneofgriefandsorrow.Lovemadehim"amanofsorrows,andacquaintedwithgrief."

WellmighttheblessedJesushaveexclaimed,"Beholdandseeiftherebeanysorrow likeuntomysorrow,withwhich theLordhasafflictedmeinthedayofhis fierceanger."Itwas lovethat

made him suffer and die for sinners. Yes, love led him to thegloomygardenofGethsemane; lovedrewhimto the judgmenthall; love nailed him to the cross; and love enabled him toexclaimwithhisexpiringbreath,"Itisfinished."

"Greater love has no man than this." The love of Christ iswonderful love: it is surpassing, boundless love. Look at thatamazing lovewhichChristhasmanifested to sinners; andmayyou be able to comprehendwith all saintswhat is its breadth,and length, and depth, and height! When you intentlycontemplatethatredeeminglovewhichbroughtChristfromhisthrone, to live and suffer, and die for sinners, does not yourbreastheavewithemotionsofgratitude?Doesnotyoursoulriseinadoration,andisitnotlostinwonder,love,andpraise?

Have you a heart so cold as not to be warmed by suchunbounded love;aheartsohardasnot tobesoftenedbysuchgraceasisheresetbeforetheeyesofawonderingworld?

NofeeblemortalcanexpressthevastnessoftheloveofChristtosinners! It is a mystery which eternity itself will never fullyunravel."Godonly,knowstheloveofGod."Weknowthat it isgreatlove,andthatitismanifestedtosinners,butitislovetooboundless for the most capacious mind to grasp. None cancomprehend its vastness: none can measure its immensity;language fails to describe it; human thought cannot fathom it;timecannotdisclose itsdepths;andvasteternity itselfwillrollaway in its continual and delightful contemplation. HowtranscendentistheloveofChrist!Itpassesknowledge.

Omysoul,areyounotlostinwonderandadmirationwhenyoucontemplate this divine love– the love of Jesus? And love soamazing,lovesoboundlessastheloveofChristshouldcallforthourloftieststrainsofpraise,andexerciseourhighestpowersofmindindevoutcontemplations.Itshouldbetheconstantthemeof our meditation here, until we come to possess its full andeternal enjoyment in that world where all is love. And if we

possess the love of Christ on earth, it will cheer our hearts,brighten our prospects, alleviate our sorrows, mitigate ourafflictions,andemitarayofhopethatwillenableustorejoicewith joy unspeakable and full of glory, even in this valley oftears.

TobetheobjectofChrist's loveisdesirable,andit isablessedattainment toknowthatyouenjoy it; tosaywithPaul, "IhavebeencrucifiedwithChristandInolongerlive,butChristlivesinme.ThelifeIliveinthebody,IlivebyfaithintheSonofGod,who loved me and gave himself for me." There is nothing somuchcalculatedtodrivefromsin,orexcitetogoodworks,asarayoftheloveofChristdartingintothesinner'sheart!Thiswillmoreeffectuallymelt it, thanall tide terrorsof the law, or thethundersofSinai.

The love of Christ fills the soul with immortal joys. There isnothing so reviving to the believer, as the sweet thought ofChrist's love to him. There is no subject stored with such anexuberance of divine consolation, and heavenly joy, as that ofredeeminglove–theloveoftheSonofGodtoalostworld.Everyothersubjectlosesitslusterwhencontrastedwiththissublime,soul-revivingtheme;andnothingtendssoeffectuallytoexpand,elevate,andpurifythesoul,asthatfaith"whichworksbylove."

AndwhatdowenotowetotheloveofChrist?Allthecomfortsandhappinessof life,andall the joysofablissfuleternity flowfrom this love. You should meditate much upon the love ofChrist; andmay that love ever glowwithin you, and be like aperpetualfireburninguponthealtarofyourheart.

"TheloveofChristisasubjecttooloftyforaseraph'sharp.Thesoul,renewedbythespirit, isoftenincapableofexpressingthesublimefeelingswhichpassthroughthemind,whenthinkingonthis glorious subject. The love of Christ conveys a joy to thebeliever's heart, which is unspeakable and full of glory. Thetonguecannotexpressthedelightofheartwhicharisesfromthe

manifestation of this love. The joy of harvest, the joy of thebridegroomonhiswedding day; the joy of victory, and takinggreat spoils from the enemy; the joy of a poorman in findinggreattreasures;allthesearenotworthytobecomparedwiththejoyandexultationofthebeliever'sheart,onthemanifestationofthislovetohissoul."(Vincent)

WhatdoestheblessedJesusdeserveforsuchunboundedlovetosinners?Allourheartsshouldbedevotedtohisservice,andallouraffectionsshouldbeplaceduponhim.Weshouldlovehim,becausehe first lovedus. "Thoughyouhavenot seenhim,youlovehim;andeventhoughyoudonotseehimnow,youbelieveinhimandarefilledwithaninexpressibleandgloriousjoy."

O to be made like the adorable Redeemer, and to praise himthroughoutthecountlessage'sofeternity,forthewondersofhisredeeminglove!Maythisbethedesireofeveryreader;andmayeachbeenabledtoexclaimwiththePsalmist,"WhomhaveIinheavenbutyou?ThereisnoneuponearththatIdesirebesidesyou!"

"Onethereis,aboveallothers,WelldeservesthenameofFriendHisislovebeyondabrother's;Costly,free,andknowsnoend.Theywhooncehiskindnessprove,Finditeverlastinglove.Whichofallourfriendstosaveus,Couldorwouldhaveshedtheirblood!ButourJesusdiedtosaveusReconciled,inhimtoGod;ThiswasboundlessloveindeedJesusisafriendinneed."

THELOVEOFCHRISTINTHE

BESTOWMENTOFGRACE,INTHEGIFTOFHISWORD,ANDINTHE

INSTITUTIONOFDIVINEORDINANCES.

"Hegivesusgraceandglory."Psalm84:11

"Ihavegiventhemyourword."John17:14

"Heistheonewhogavethesegiftstothechurch:theapostles,the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers."Ephes.4:11

"Hegivesusgraceandglory."Butwillhegivegracetosinners?Yes, togreat sinners. Paulwas the chief of sinners, and yet tohim was the grace of the Lord Jesus manifested. He asserts,concerninghimself, that "ThegraceofourLordwasexceedingabundant,withfaithandlovewhichisinChristJesus."

Oh!what surpassing, boundless love, hasChristmanifested tosinners! And on millions of Adam's lost and guilty race, whowere once as vile as sin couldmake them, has he in his greatlove bestowed his boundless grace. It is his love that makessinnerssaints,anddistinguishesthemfromtherestofmankind;and every sinner that will enter heaven's gates,must first feeltheconstraininginfluenceofthislove.Howsweetarethewords,"Bygrace(withoutmerit)youaresaved!"Hereisanoverflowingfountain of divine consolation for guilty sinners. Whatwonderful love isheremanifested tous!"ButGod issorich inmercy,andhe lovedussoverymuch, thatevenwhileweweredeadbecauseofoursins,hegaveus lifewhenheraisedChristfrom thedead. (It is onlybyGod's special favor that youhavebeensaved!)Forheraisedus fromthedeadalongwithChrist,andweareseatedwithhimintheheavenlyrealms—allbecauseweareonewithChristJesus.AndsoGodcanalwayspointtous

as examplesof the incrediblewealthofhis favor andkindnesstoward us, as shown in all he has done for us through ChristJesus."

"Most amazingly rich mercy! most astonishingly great love!Whendead in sins,blindedbypride toourwretchedness, andfullofenmityagainstGodandgoodness,eventhenheloveduswithgreat love,andofrichmercyquickenedus.Olookat, liveandfeeduponthisrichmercyandgreatlove.Oh!togracewhatmightydebtors."(Mason)

This grace is greatly celebratedbyprophets, and apostles, andsaints.Paul cries, "By the grace ofGod, I amwhat I am."ThePsalmist exclaims," How excellent is your loving kindness, OGod! therefore the children of men put their trust under theshadow of your wings." A good man says, "Nothing but freegrace makes any difference between me and the vilest ofsinners." One says, "I know no sweeter way to heaven, thanthroughfreegraceandhardtrialstogether;andwheregraceis,hard trials are seldom lacking." Another says, "Two things Ichieflyknow:oneis,thatIamagreatsinner;theotheris,thatJesusChristisagreatSavior.Otherichesofdivinegrace!"

When Christ shall bring forth the headstone of his living,glorioustemple,alltheredeemedshallshout"Grace,grace,untoit."Grace is glory begun, glory is grace perfected.Grace is thefirstdegreeofglory.TheLordwillgivegrace,andgloryalso.Owhatpreciouswords!Whocanweightheirimport?

Amazinggrace!HowsweetthesoundThatsavedawretchlikeme!Ioncewaslost,butnowamfound;Wasblind,butnowIsee.

Twasgracethattaughtmyhearttofear,Andgracemyfearsrelieved;Howpreciousdidthatgraceappear

ThehourIfirstbelieved.

Throughmanydangers,toilsandsnares,Ihavealreadycome;'Tisgracehasbroughtmesafethusfar,Andgracewillleadmehome.

TheLordhaspromisedgoodtome,HisWordmyhopesecures;HewillmyShieldandPortionbe,Aslongaslifeendures.

Yes,whenthisfleshandheartshallfail,Andmortallifeshallcease,Ishallpossess,withintheveil,Alifeofjoyandpeace.

Theearthshallsoondissolvelikesnow,Thesunforbeartoshine;ButGod,Whocalledmeherebelow,Shallbeforevermine.

Whenwe'vebeentheretenthousandyears,Brightshiningasthesun,We'venolessdaystosingGod'spraiseThanwhenwe'vefirstbegun.-Newton

Assoonas sinnersarebrought intoa stateofgrace, theyhaveneed of continual spiritual instruction; and such instruction,Christ in his love has provided them. He has given them hisword.Hehas favored themwith themeans of grace, andwiththe institution of divine ordinances. In the gift of his word,Christhasmanifestedgreatlovetohispeople.Whilejourneyingthroughthisbleak,arid,wildernessworld,tomansionsofglory,herefreshestheirsoulswiththebreadoflife,andwiththelivingwatersofsalvation.ThewordofGod,andtheordinancesofhisgrace,affordthemabundantprovisionsbytheway.

What transcendent love has the blessed Jesus manifested ingiving us this unspeakably precious treasure, the holyScriptures, inwhicharecontainedsuch inexhaustible storesofrich grace. The whole Bible is an epistle of love, unspeakablelove, to perishing sinners. It unfolds the way of salvation; itproclaimsarisen,glorifiedSavior;itpointstotheLambofGod;it is full of Christ, full of immortal love; it leads the sinner toglory.Othen,maythisprecioustreasure, thispreciousvolumebe yours, bemine, to guide us through this dark, bewilderingsceneofsinandsorrow,toabrighterworldabove."Yourword,"saysthepsalmist,"isa lampuntomyfeet,anda lightuntomypath."

HowhighlyhasthewordofGodbeenprizedbyeveryChristianpilgrim,byeverytravelertoZion–itwasDavid'scomfortinhisaffliction;itwashissonginthehouseofhispilgrimage."Thisismycomfort inmyaffliction, foryourwordhasquickenedme.""Your statutes have been my songs in the house of mypilgrimage." How precious was the holy law of God, to thiseminentsaint,Israel'ssacredbard!Hearhimexclaim,"O,howIloveyourlaw!itismymeditationalltheday.""Yourtestimonieshave I takenasaheritage forever, for theyare the rejoicingofmy heart." "Therefore I love your commandments above gold;yes,abovefinegold.""Howsweetareyourwordsuntomytaste!yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth." "Consider how I loveyourprecepts." "Mysoulhaskept your testimonies, and I lovethemexceedingly."

Reader,mayyoualsolovethewordofGod,andmayiteverbeyourgreatestdelighttoreaditssacredpages.Youcannotprizethisblessedbooksufficiently.BlessedJesus,whatdowenotoweyouforthegiftofthispreciousvolume!

"Leteverlastingthanksbethine,Forsuchabrightdisplay,Asmakesaworldofdarknessshine

Withbeamsofheavenlyday.MysoulrejoicestopursueThestepsofhimIlove;Tillglorybreaksuponmyview,Inbrighterworldsabove."-Cowper

In his love, Christ "has given unto us exceeding great andpreciouspromises."May you ever contemplate these "preciouspromises;"andmayyourprayerbe,"Openmyeyes,thatImaybeholdwondrousthingsoutofyour law." Ifyouareabeliever,youwillloveandvaluethewordofGod;youwillmeditatemuchonit.Itistrueofarighteousman,that"hisdelightisinthelawoftheLord,andinhislawdoeshemeditatedayandnight."

Onadyingbed,youwillnotregrethavingspenttoomuchtimeinthestudyoftheScriptures,butyoumaylamentthatyouhadnot devoted more of your time to the diligent perusal of thedivine pages. When Salmasius, one of the most consummatescholarsofhisage,cametodie,heexclaimed,"O!Ihavelostaworld of time! Time, the most precious thing in the world!whereof had I but one yearmore, Iwould spend it in readingDavid'sPsalmsandPaul'sEpistles."TheimmortalJohnLocke,whenaskedwhichwasthesurestwayforayoungmantoattainaknowledgeoftheChristianreligion,replied,"LethimstudytheHoly Scriptures, especially the New Testament; therein arecontained the words of eternal life; it has God for its author,salvationforitsend,andtruth,withoutanymixtureoferror,foritsmatter."

It is from the Bible thatwe obtain that knowledge,whichwillguideustotheabodesof immortalitywhichwill leadus to thegloryandhonor thatwill endurewhen sunand starshave losttheirlight.Thenstudy,thewordofGod."Itembodiesall,"saysWaterbury,"thataChristianinthispilgrimagecanneed–it ishisonlychartthroughthistempestuouslife;introuble,itishisconsolation; inprosperity,hismonitor; indifficulty,his guide;amid the darkness of death, and while descending into the

shadowy valley, it is the day-star that illuminates his path,makeshisdyingeyebrightwithhope,andcheershissoulwiththeprospectofimmortalglory."

AlwaysrememberthedivineadmonitionofourblessedSavior,"You search the scriptures, for in them you think you haveeternallife,andtheyaretheywhichtestifyofme."And"Lettheword of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom." Let thelanguageofyourhearteverbe–"MaythisblestvolumeeverlieClosetomyheart,andnearmyeye;Tilllife'slasthourmysoulengage,Andbemychosenheritage."

In the institution of the ordinances of grace, Christ hasmanifested the tenderest love and concern for the spiritualwelfareofhispeoplewhileinthisworld.Inhislove,"Heistheone who gave these gifts to the church: the apostles, theprophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. TheirresponsibilityistoequipGod'speopletodohisworkandbuildupthechurch,thebodyofChrist,untilwecometosuchunityinourfaithandknowledgeofGod'sSonthatwewillbematureandfull grown in the Lord, measuring up to the full stature ofChrist."

A preachedGospel is the gift of Christ- a gift of love to a lostworld. The Redeemer's last command, was, "Go into all theworld, and preach the gospel to every creature." This blessedgospel,Christinhislovehassenttous.Thelinesarefallenuntousinpleasantplaces;yes,weleaveagoodlyheritage.

Blessed be God! that the glad tidings of life and salvation,throughacrucifiedRedeemer,havereachedourears.O,happythey, whose lot is cast within the joyful sound of the gloriousgospel! "Blessed is thepeople thatknowthe joyful sound; theyshallwalk,OLord, in the lightof your countenance." "Blessedarethosewhodwellyourhouse;theywillbestillpraisingyou.''

Whatablessedprivilegeisit,thatweenjoy,ofenteringintothehouse of God, with voices of joy and praise! Let us prize thisprivilege,andletuslovetodwellinthehouseofGod.

HowardentlydidDavidlovethesanctuaryofGod!"Lord,Ihaveloved the habitation of your house, and the place where yourhonordwells.""OnethinghaveIdesiredoftheLord,thatwillIseekafter;thatImaydwellinthehouseoftheLordallthedaysofmylife,tobeholdthebeautyoftheLord,andtoinquireinhistemple."ToDavid,nospotonearthwassodearasZion's holyhill; no service so sweet as that ofdivineworship.Howhighlyshouldyou,wholiveamidthemeridiansplendorofChristianity,prize the means of grace which you enjoy! With the Psalmistmay you extol him from the heart, "How amiable are yourtabernacles,OLordofhosts!adayinyourcourtsisbetterthanathousand.IhadratherbeadoorkeeperinthehouseofmyGod,thantodwellinthetentsofwickedness."

Intheinstitutionofthesacramentalsupper,Christhasaffordedagrandexhibitionof love.Inhis love,yes inhisdying love,heinstitutedit.TheLord'sSupperisthesweetestofallordinances;it is, emphatically, a feast of love. The very banner thatChristunfurls over theheadof everybelieving communicant, is love;love written in such legible characters that he who runs mayread."Hebroughtmetothebanquetinghouse,andhisbannerover me was love." With what joy does the redeemed sinnerapproachthissacredtable,thathemaycommemoratethedyingloveofhisblessedSavior.Hislanguageis,"Isatdownunderhisshadowwithgreatdelight,andhisfruitwassweettomytaste."

This ordinance, exhibiting as it does a crucifiedSavior, vividlydisplaysthevastnessofredeemingloveandtherichesofdivinegrace.AlovingSaviorhasspreadthistableforus,andhecries,"Eat,Ofriends;drink,yes,drinkabundantly,Obeloved."Whatblessingsarehereprovidedfordyingsinners?thebreadoflife,the waters of salvation, remission of sins; yes, an abundantpardon,peacewithGod,afitnessforheaven!

Come and show your love to Christ, at this feast of love;remember, and obey his dying injunction, "This do inremembrance ofme." Can you lay any claim to the name of aChristian,whileyouliveintheutterneglectofthisduty?Surelynot.TheloveofChristshouldconstrainyoutoobserveit.Surelyit becomes a ransomed captive, a captive bought at such aninestimable price, to testily his obligations to his lovingRedeemer! "Come, for all things are now ready." Come to theLord's table, and behold themost amazing lovemanifested toyou,theinfiniteloveofthedyingSonofGod!

OBlessedJesus!mayitbeourdelight,onearthtoconfessandown you as our divine Redeemer before men, and tocommemorate your dying love in this sweet ordinance.Refreshedbythatspiritualprovision,whichyouhavelaidupforus in the gospel of your grace, may we press onward in ourpilgrimagejourneyheavenward;andatlastrealizethejoysofablessedhomeintheworldofglory!

Dear believer, we shall soon exchange the table below for thetableabove.JesusourdivineRedeemer,himselfshallbeatthehead of that table, and shall feed us, and lead us to livingfountainsofwaters,andGodshallwipeawayalltearsfromoureyes. Until then, let us endeavor to be profited by all thosemeans of grace, with which Christ in his love has favored us."Grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and SaviorJesusChrist.Tohimbeglorybothnowandforever.Amen.''

THELOVEOFCHRISTINAFFLICTIONS

"But evil does not spring from the soil, and trouble does notsproutfromtheearth.Peoplearebornfortroubleaspredictably

assparksflyupwardfromafire."Job5:6-7

"FortheLorddisciplinesthoseheloves,andhepunishesthoseheacceptsashischildren."Hebrews12:6

Afflictioncomesuponall.Noneareexemptfromthesufferingsincident toour fallen nature. The young, the old, the rich andthe poor, alike feel the withering touch of affliction and ofsorrow.Diseaseinvadesthestrongestconstitution,andafflictionprostrates themightiest energy. Often those in the prime andvigorof lifeare laiddownonthebedofsickness,andmadetofeelthattheyaredyingcreatures.Howtrueitis,that"Howfrailishumanity!Howshortislife,andhowfulloftrouble!"

ThechildrenofGodarenotexemptedfromtheafflictionsofthislife;butit istheirblessedconsolationtoknowthattheyhaveaFriend to sympathize with them in all their sorrows andsufferings,while in thismortal state. Yes, Jesus is that friend,whowatchesovertheirsickbeds,andconsolestheirdespondingspiritsamidthefrailtyofsinkingnature.Oh!howoftendoestheblessedJesuswonderfullymanifesthislovetohisafflictedones!How often does he whisper words of peace and love andconsolationintheirears!Howoften,inthemanifestationofhislove,dotheirsoulsoverflowwithjoy,evenwhentheirbodiesarerackedwithseverepain!

Christ will alwaysmake that promise good, "As your days, soshall your strength be;" and amid all our trials and afflictionshere,wemayrelywithunshakenconfidenceonthepromisesofour loving Redeemer, who will not forsake us in the hour ofextremity.Thenhewillmanifesthis lovetous,anddisplaytherichesofhisgrace.Inallourtrials,hispromiserunsthus:"Mygrace is sufficient for you, formy strength is made perfect inweakness."

All theafflictionsof the childrenofGodaredesigned for their

good. They come from a kind heavenly Father, from aGod oflove; and one of their designs is the purification andsanctificationofbelievers. "Iwill turnmyhanduponyou, andpurelypurgeawayyourdross,andtakeawayallyour tin." "Bythis,therefore,shallalltheiniquityofJacobbepurged;andthisisall the fruit–totakeawayhissin.""Inthisway, theywillberefinedandcleansedandmadepureuntil the timeof theend,fortheappointedtimeisstill tocome.""Manywillbepurified,cleansed,andrefinedbythesetrials."

Afflictions make us fit for glory: they enable us to obtain acorrect view of the vanity of terrestrial happiness; they tend,throughgrace, to fixour soulsonHim, inwhomalonewecanfind true happiness and immortal joys. Happy sickness, thatleads the soul to Jesus, the only source of blessedness!Afflictions,then,promoteourspiritualwelfare,andareorderedfor our good. It is expressly declared, "that all things worktogether forgood, to thosewho loveGod, to themwhoare thecalledaccording tohispurpose;"andafflictionsareamong the"allthings"thatarebeneficialtothepresentandeternalwelfareandhappinessofGod'schildren.

Afflictedbeliever,Christsaystoyou,"Youdon'tunderstandnowwhyIamdoing it; somedayyouwill."Youwill soonknow themercifuldesign,whichChristhadinafflictingyou.Inthelightofeternity,youwilllookbackandsaythathehasbroughtyoubyawaythatisright.

In their afflictions here, Christ manifests most tender love tobelievers:herenewstheirfaintingsouls,bythemanifestationofhis love and the revelation of his grace; he strengthens theminwardly. "In the day when I cried, you answered me, andstrengthened me with strength in my soul." It was themanifestation of the love and grace of the Lord Jesus, thatsupportedtheApostlePaulamidallhisafflictions."Thatiswhywenevergiveup.Thoughourbodiesaredying,our spiritsarebeing renewed every day. For our present troubles are quite

small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us animmeasurablygreatglorythatwilllastforever!Sowedon'tlookatthetroubleswecanseerightnow;rather,welookforwardtowhatwehavenotyetseen.Forthetroublesweseewillsoonbeover,butthejoystocomewilllastforever."

Howgreatlywillour lightafflictionsandtrialshere,addtotheweight of that crown of glory, which we shall wear hereafter!Howwill they sweeten that eternal restwhich remains for thepeopleofGod,ourhappyhomeinheaven!

Were the sunofprosperityalways to shineuponus,wewouldsoonforgetourFather'shouse,ourheritageabove.Christsendsusafflictionstotellusthatthisisnotourrest,thatourblessedhome is far above this scene of perishing mortality. Here, wemustbefittedforglory;andChristsaystohisfollowers,"Intheworldyoushallhavetribulation."Itisthroughmuchtribulationthat we must enter into the kingdom of God. Of that happythrongwho stand around the throne of the Eternal, it is said,"these are they who came out of great tribulation, and havewashed their robes, andmade themwhite in the blood of theLamb."

ThewaytoMountZionliesthroughthevalleyofBaca.Theroadtogloryisaroughone.BelieversmayexclaimwiththePsalmist,"You have tested us, O God; you have purified us like silvermelted in a crucible.You capturedus in yournet and laid theburdenof slaveryonourbacks.You sent troops to ride acrossour broken bodies. We went through fire and flood. But youbroughtustoaplaceofgreatabundance."Butwhenwecometothatabundantplace,eventotheheavenlyCanaan,wewill findthat it willmake amends for all ourmomentary afflictions onearth–thatonehourwithChristinglory,willmakeusforgetalifetimeofsuffering.

"Thoughroughandthornybetheroad,Itleadsyouhome,apace,toGod

Thencountyourpresenttrialssmall,Forheavenwillmakeamendsforall."

Evennow,whenwearetravelingthroughthisvalleyoftearstomansionsof glory,wehave our comforts and enjoyments.TheloveofChristsweetenseveryaffliction; turns thedarkestnightof adversity into the light of day, and the saddest night ofweeping into themorningof joy.Comeafflictions, come trials,comewhatevermay, we are assured that all things shallworktogetherforourgood.

Reader,areyouafflicted?Isitsanctifiedtoyou?Ifso,lookuponitasanevidenceofChrist'slove.Letiteverberemembered,that"FortheLorddisciplinesthoseheloves,andhepunishesthosehe accepts as his children." And again, "For the Lord correctsthose he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom hedelights." The Lord afflicts his people, because he loves them."AsmanyasIlove,"saysChrist,"Irebukeandchasten.''Hedoesit "for our profit, that wemight be partakers of his holiness."And though now, "No chastening for the present seems to bejoyous, but grievous; nevertheless, afterward it yields thepeaceable fruit of righteousness unto those who are exercisedthereby."

Afflictions are often sent to arrest thewanderer in his course,andtobringhimbacktoGod.ManyachildofGodcansaywithDavid,whohadoftenbeentriedandmadetopassthroughthefurnaceofaffliction,"BeforeIwasafflicted, Iwentastray;butnowhave Ikeptyourword. It isgood forme that Ihavebeenafflicted, that Imight learnyourstatutes. Iknow,OLord, thatyour judgments are right, and that you in faithfulness haveafflictedme."

Afflictions are also designed for the conversion of sinners.Thousands have been chosen in the furnace of affliction. Oh!howmanysaintsofGod,ineveryage,canwitnesstothetruthofthesewords:"Behold, Ihaverefinedyou,butnotwithsilver; I

lavechosenyouinthefurnaceofaffliction."Howmanycarelesssinners, under the softening touch of affliction, have beenbrought to Jesus, and have found peace in his atoning blood!Howmany,without the savingknowledgeofChrist,havebeencastonbedsof sickness, and theremade, for the first time, tofeelthatJesusisprecious!Thentheyenjoyedhislove,receivedhis grace, and knew by experience that the Lord is gracious.Thenafflictionbecamelight,Christprecious,andheavensweet.ThemanifestationofaSavior's lovedispelledeverygloom,andheavenly light irradiated their souls. In affliction, Christmanifests the tenderest love to his people, and then it is thatthey get a glimpse of his matchless perfections. He is alwaysnear them, and "in all their affliction he is afflicted, and theangelofhispresencesavesthem."

HowhappyaretheytowhomtheloveofChristismanifestedinaffliction; inwhosehearts the loveofGod is shedabroad;andwhoarefilledwith joyunspeakable,andfullofglory!Suchareenabled to say, with an experienced apostle, "We can rejoice,too,whenwerunintoproblemsandtrials,forweknowthattheyare good for us—they help us learn to endure. And endurancedevelopsstrengthofcharacter inus,andcharacterstrengthensourconfidentexpectationofsalvation.Andthisexpectationwillnot disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us,becausehehasgivenustheHolySpirittofillourheartswithhislove."

A young lady who had lain on a bed of sickness for manymonths,oncedeclaredtothewriter,thatshewouldrathersufferafflictionwiththepeopleofGod,thanenjoythepleasuresofsinfora season.Whencearose this resignation to thewill ofGod,amid extreme sufferings? From the manifestation of Christ'slove;fromthatlovebeingshedabroadinherheart.

"HowoftendoesChristmanifesthisdearestlovetohissufferingones,"saidaneminentsaintofotherdays(HannahHousman),duringhersickness."BlessedbeGodforallhismercies,andfor

thiscomfortinmyaffliction.O,howmanymerciesIhave!Ilackfornothing.HithertoIcansay,theLordisgracious.Hehasbeenverymerciful tome, in sustainingmeunder allmy trials. TheLordbringsaffliction,butitisnotbecausehedelightstoafflicthischildren;itisatalltimesforourprofit.Icansayithasbeengoodformetobeafflicted;ithasenabledmetodiscernthings,which,whenIwas inhealth, Icouldnotperceive. Ithasmademeknowmoreofthevanityandemptinessofthisworld,andallitsdelusivepleasures-foratbesttheyarebutvanity."

Saidanamiableanddevotedyoungminister(ThomasTaylor)inhis last sickness, "I do not consider my circumstancesmelancholy or painful. I am very mercifully dealt with. Mypassagetothetombiseasy.Ihavecomparativelylittlesuffering,andIenjoythatpeaceofGodwhichpassesallunderstanding.Icantrulysay,thatgoodnessandmercyhavefollowedmeallmydays, including these suffering days: and looking upwards tothathousenotmadewithhands, eternal in theheavens, I canalsoadd, I shalldwell in thehouseof theLord forever."Thusafflictions work for our good, and qualify us for the joys andblissofheaven.

And now, afflicted reader, remember the divine exhortation,"My child, don't ignore it when the Lord disciplines you, anddon't be discouraged when he corrects you. For the Lorddisciplines thosehe loves,andhepunishes thoseheacceptsashis children." "But consider the joyof those correctedbyGod!DonotdespisethechasteningoftheAlmightywhenyousin.Forthoughhewounds,healsobandages.Hestrikes,buthishandsalsoheal.""Asyouendurethisdivinediscipline,rememberthatGod is treating you as his own children. Whoever heard of achildwhowasneverdisciplined?IfGoddoesn'tdisciplineyouashedoesallofhischildren,itmeansthatyouareillegitimateandare not really his children after all."Dear believer, the time isshort.Yourafflictionsarenearlyover.

"A few more trials; a few more tears; a few more days of

darkness, and we shall be forever with the Lord. In thistabernaclewegroan,beingburdened:All dark things shall yetbeclearedup;allsufferingshealed;allblankssupplied;andweshallfindfullnessofjoy(notonedroplacking)inthesmileandpresenceofourGod.It isoneofthelawsofChrist'skingdom–'wemust throughmuch tribulation enter into the kingdom ofGod.'Wemustnot reckonupona smooth road toglory,but itwillbeashortone."(McCheyne)

"Bestill,mysoul,andknowtheLord;Inmeeksubmissionwaithiswill,Hispresencecantruepeaceafford,Hispowercanshieldfromeveryill.Yourpathisstrewedwithpiercingthorns;Eachstepisgainedbyarduousfight,Yetwait,tillhope'sbrightmorningdawns,Tilldarknesschangesintolight.Soonshallthepainfulconflictcease;Soonshalltheragingstormbeo'er;Soonshallyoureachtherealmsofpeace,Wheresufferingshallbeknownnomore.ThereshallyourjoyforeverflowInoneunbrokenstreamofbliss;ThereshallyouGodtheSaviorknow,Andfeelhimyourasyouarehis."

Cleave closely to Jesus; you shall soon see him as he is; thenyour afflictions, and trials, and days of mourning will haveended;youshall reignwith Jesus, andbe likehim. "And I amsure that God, who began the good work within you, willcontinue his work until it is finally finished on that daywhenChristJesuscomesbackagain."

Sanctified afflictions are fitting you for heaven. " Happy arethose whom you discipline, Lord, and those whom you teachfromyourlaw.Yougivethemrelieffromtroubledtimesuntilapitisdugforthewicked."

ChooseChristnow,andyoumayrestassuredthatgoodnessandmercy shall followyou through life, andglory and immortalitycrownyouatdeath.Youwillenjoythe loveofChrist inhealth,andinsickness,andwhenyoucometofeelyour lastpain,anddrawyour lastbreath, youwill shout forth, "Odeath,where isyour sting?Ograve,where is your victory?Thanksbe toGod,whogivesusthevictory,throughourLordJesusChrist."

THELOVEOFCHRIST,ASMANIFESTEDTOHISPEOPLEINTHE

HOUROFDEATH

"EvenwhenIwalkthroughthedarkvalleyofdeath,Iwillnotbeafraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staffprotectandcomfortme."Psalm23:4

"Andwhentheclosingscenesprevail,Whenwealth,state,pleasure,allshallfail;Allthatafoolishworldadmires,Orpassioncravesorprideinspires;Atthatimportanthourofneed,Jesusshallproveafriendindeed.Hishandshallsmoothyourdyingbed,Hisarmsustainyourdroopinghead;Andwhenthepainfulstruggle'so'er,Andthatvainthing,theworld,nomoreHe'llbearhishumblefriendaway,Toraptureandeternalday."

It is a solemn truth that you and Imust die. Death will soonovertake us. Before the termination of the present year; yes,before the sun shall have again passed the horizon, the handthat nowwrites these lines, and the eye that now reads them,

maybothhavefeltthechillofdeath.

Oh,what is human life?A vapor; a dream; a tale that is soontold;a feeble spark of vitality, emitting its light for amoment,and then forever extinguished! "How frail is humanity! Howshortis life,andhowfulloftrouble!Likea flower,weblossomfor a moment and then wither. Like the shadow of a passingcloud, we quickly disappear." "My days are swifter than aweaver'sshuttleflyingbackandforth.Theyendwithouthope.OGod,rememberthatmylifeisbutabreath."

Ourcontinuanceonearthisbutforashortmoment."Ourdaysontheearthareasashadow,andthereisnoneabiding.""Asforman, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so heflourishes; for thewind passes over it, and it is gone, and theplacethereofshallknowitnomore.""Forwhatisyourlife?Itiseven a vapor that appears for a little time, and then vanishesaway." How short, how uncertain is life; but how certain isdeath!

HowtrueitisthatGodwillbringustodeath,andto"thehouseappointedforallliving.""Itisappointeduntomenoncetodie."Millions have fallen before the irresistible stroke of death. Allmankind are dying creatures, and are pressing onward to thegrave.

Reflect upon the past history of mankind. "Generation aftergeneration," says a beautiful writer, "have passed away. Timewas,when theywere alive upon the earth, and active amid itsbusyscenes.Theyhadtheirjoysandtheirsorrows.Theyflittedacross life's busy stage, and disappeared forever behind thecurtain of mortality. They have gone. The winds of centurieshavesweptovertheirgraves."

As it was with them, so it will soon be with us. Look at thefuture. It is computed that eight hundred million peopleconstitute the population of our globe: these, in less than a

century,willallbelodgedinthegrave.Thegravereceivesalikeasitsvictimstheinmateofthecottage,andhimwhositsonhisthroneandswaysthescepterofnations.Thepathsofgloryandhonor lead but to the grave. Here come the nobles with theirtitles,kingswiththeircrowns,andscholarswiththeirvolumes.Here is thehomeof themightyhero,whooncewithhis steel-cladmillionsthunderedoverthefieldofbattle,andwithanarmofpowershookthefoundationsofkingdoms.

"Howpopulous,howcapaciousisthegrave!Thisiscreation'smelancholyvault."

O look at the brevity and vanity of human life, and learn asolemn lesson. Though you have soared in fame, or haveaccumulatedwealth inabundance; thoughyouglory inhumanpower, and, like Alexander, could ride triumphantly over theruins of desolatednations, yet the timewill soonhave arrivedwhenthefeebletenementofclayshallmoulder,leavingitsonlyepitaph upon the crumbling marble; when it may bepronounced,overyourmortalremains–"Howloved,howvaluedonce,availsyounot;Towhomrelated,orbywhombegot:Aheapofdustaloneremainsofthee;'Tisallyouare,andallthegreatshallbe."

But death does not annihilate our existence.We are immortalbeings. Human life is but a prelude to an immortal state ofbeing.Aswecloseoureyesonthevisionaryscenesof time,weopenthemamidthesolemnrealitiesofeternity;weenteruponthatlifewhichwillneverend.Todie,then,isbuttolive.

Oh!howimportantitisthatweshouldbecomeinterestedintheatonementofChrist;thatwemayfindredemptioninhisblood,andforgivenessofsins,thatwemaybeinpeace.Allmusttreadthedarkvalleyalone.AllmustcrosstheJordanofdeath.ButthehumblefollowerofChristis,throughgrace,enabledtoexclaim,as he approaches the dreadful precipice that hides the view of

mortality:"EvenwhenIwalkthroughthedarkvalleyofdeath,Iwillnotbeafraid,foryouareclosebesideme.Yourrodandyourstaffprotectandcomfortme."

Christ'spresenceiswithbelieversinthehourofdeath;hecheerstheirdepartingspirits.Theyhavefledforrefugetohim,andhesustainsthemintheirtryinghour.Thenheisafriendindeed;afriendthatstickscloserthanabrother.This love ismanifestedtothem;itenablesthemtoshoutforthtriumphantly,inthefaceof the last enemy, "O death, where is your victory? O death,whereisyoursting?Forsinisthestingthatresultsindeath,andthe law gives sin its power.Howwe thankGod, who gives usvictoryoversinanddeaththroughJesusChristourLord!"

ItistothebelieverinJesus,andtohimalone,thatdeathcomesdisarmed of his terrors; being only a faithful messenger toconveyhimtohisdearLordandSavior:sothatintheprospectofdissolution,hecanexpressadesirewithPaul,"TodepartandbewithChrist,whichisfarbetter."HeknowsthatChristishisloving friend, that he iswatching over his dying bed, ready toreceive his departing spirit, and he can confidently say withStephen,"LordJesus,receivemyspirit."AndwithDavid,"IntoyourhandIcommitmyspirit;youhaveredeemedme,OLordGodoftruth.""Iwillbeholdyourfaceinrighteousness.Iwillbesatisfied,whenIawake,withyour likeness."AndwithSimeon,"Lord, now let your servant depart in peace according to yourword;formyeyeshaveseenyoursalvation."

SuchisthepeacefulendoftheChristian'smortalcareer.Hediesin peace. He passes the swellings of Jordan, cheered by theSavior'spresence,andanimatedbythemanifestationofhislove.It is inthetryinghourofdeath,whenfleshandheart fail, thattheloveofChristisamazinglymanifestedtobelievers.

It iswhen the 'swellingsofJordan' comealmostover thepoorbeliever'ssoul;whenheisreadytosinkbeneaththeboisterouswaves,thatChristrevealstohimhiswonderfullove,whichfills

his heart with joy; which enables him to shout forth joyfullyuponhisbed,andbemorethanaconquerorthroughHimthatlovedus. "Let thesaintsbe joyful inglory: let themsingaloudupontheirbeds.""PreciousinthesightoftheLordisthedeathofhissaints."Andatthatsolemnperiod,whenthelastsandsoflife are running out, when life's last hour is closing, he visitsthemindividually, andunfolds the richesofhis grace, and thewonders of his love. He whispers in their ears his graciouspromises. "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I havecalledyoubyname;youaremine.Whenyougo throughdeepwaters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you gothroughriversofdifficulty,youwillnotdrown!Whenyouwalkthrough the fire of oppression, youwill not be burned up; theflameswillnotconsumeyou.ForIamtheLord,yourGod,theHolyOneofIsrael,yourSavior."

Andtheyfindhimfaithfultohispromises;yes,whentheytreadthe verge of Jordan, they find him like the high priest of old,whobore thearkof thecovenant, standing in themidstof thewaters,thattheymaysafelypassthroughitsproudwavestotheheavenlyCanaan,thatgloriouslandofpromise-thehappyhomeof the believers, the heaven of eternal rest. "They were gladwhenitgrewcalm,andheguidedthemtotheirdesiredhaven."JesusChrist,ourblessedhighpriest,himselfhaspassedthroughtheJordanofdeath.Hehasdippedhisfeetintothisstream.Hehasrolledbackitsswellingwaves.Hehasmadeasafeandeasypassageforallhisfollowers.

Christian, why then are you afraid to die, to plunge into thisstream,whenyou see the very footprints of yourSavior in thebottom?"Whoishethatcondemns?ItisChristwhodied."Hiseyeshavebeenclosedindeath.O,believer!Christhasbeenlaidin thecoldandsilentgravebeforeyou.Hehas felt the chill ofdeath. But he has removed its sting. Through death, he hasdestroyed him that had the power of it. Fear not, death is avanquished foe. Christ says concerning his people, "I willransomthem fromthepowerof thegrave. Iwill redeem there

fromdeathOdeath!Iwillbeyourplague;Ograve!Iwillbeyourdestruction."

Christian,deathcannothurtyou.Itisbutasurestepintoglory!Are you in bondage through the fear of death? Christ hasdelivered you from this bondage. "Because God's children arehuman beings—made of flesh and blood—Jesus also becameflesh and blood by being born in human form. For only as ahumanbeingcouldhedie,andonlybydyingcouldhebreakthepoweroftheDevil,whohadthepowerofdeath.Onlyinthiswaycouldhedeliverthosewhohavelivedalltheirlivesasslavestothefearofdying."

Thus,thechildrenofGodaresafelyconductedthroughdeathtomansions of glory, and awake amid the splendors of areimmortalday.Howhappythey,who,whenwalkingthroughthevalleyoftheshadowofdeath,findthatJesusistheirfriendandcompanion!"Howglorioushe!howhappythey,Insuchagloriousfriend!Whoselovesecuresthemalltheway,Andcrownsthemattheend."

Thus,while the believer is standing on the verge of the grave,andlookingbackonhispast life,hispast conflicts,his earthlypilgrimage,hecanexclaiminthe languageof theApostlePaul,"I have fought a good fight, I have finishedmy course, I havekeptthefaith;"andashelooksforwardintoavasteternity,andseestherichrewardsthatareshortlytobehis,thekingdomthathe is going to possess, the crown of glory that is soon to heplaceduponhisbrow,hetriumphantlyadds,"Andnowtheprizeawaits me—the crown of righteousness that the Lord, therighteous Judge, will giveme on that great day of his return.And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly lookforward to his glorious return." At last, he hears that happyapprobation,andjoyfulinvitation,"Welldone,goodandfaithfulservant,enterintotimejoyofyourLord."

The solemn scene closes. The dark valley is passed. Jordan iscrossed. No more struggles. No more pain. No more tears ofsorrow,andaffliction.Nomoredeath."Hewillswallowupdeathin victory; and the LordGodwillwipe away tears from off allfaces."Thebeliever is"absentfromthebody,andpresentwiththe Lord." In the Savior's perfect love, he rests, and finds hiseternity of joy. In his dyingmoments he could say, "God willredeemmysoulfromthepowerofthegrave;forheshallreceiveme.""ForthisGodisourGod, foreverandever;hewillbeourguide, even unto death." And he has experienced a happyrealizationofthesepromises.ThatSaviorwholovedhiminlife,alsomanifestshis love tohim in thehourofdeath.His love isabiding, it is not subject to mutation; it knows no change."Having loved his ownwho were in the world, he loved themuntotheend."

Asthebeliever'smortalcareerisabouttoterminate,theSaviorstandsbyhim,andencircleshimwiththearmsofhis love.Hesheds abroad his love in the believer's heart. He sustains himamid the agonies of dissolving nature.He strengthens him byhisgrace.ThedyingChristiancries,"Myfleshandmyheartfail;butGod is the strength ofmy heart, andmy portion forever.""Thatiswhywenevergiveup.Thoughourbodiesaredying,ourspiritsarebeingrenewedeveryday.Forourpresenttroublesarequitesmallandwon'tlastverylong.Yettheyproduceforusanimmeasurablygreatglorythatwilllastforever!Sowedon'tlookatthetroubleswecanseerightnow;rather,welookforwardtowhatwehavenotyetseen.Forthetroublesweseewillsoonbeover,butthejoystocomewilllastforever."

Thus he finishes his earthly coursewith joy.His end is peace."Mark theperfectman, andbehold theupright; for the endofthat man is peace." With him all is calm, and peaceful. Theheavensareserene.Thethundersofthelawarehushed.Calvaryis inhis view.Aroundhimall is sprinkledwith atoning blood.No wonder, then, that he should die in peace; for, "being

justified by faith," he has "peace with God, through our LordJesusChrist."He has obtained the victory over death, the lastenemy.Hence,manyadyingChristianhasbeenabletosay,withGoodwin,"Isthisdying?Isthistheenemythatdismayedmesolong,nowsoharmless,andevenpleasant?"

Notsowiththeendofthewicked.Tohim,deathisterrible;thegrave,gloomy; and eternity, dark. "Thewicked are crushed bytheirsins,butthegodlyhavearefugewhentheydie."

Thedeath-bedoftheChristianisaglorious,happyplace–"Thechamber where the good man meets his fate, Is privilegedbeyondthecommonwalkofvirtuouslife,Quiteonthevergeofheaven."

THELOVEOFCHRISTINTHEHOUROFDEATH(continued);

THECLOUDOFWITNESSES

"Seeingwealsoarecompassedaboutwithsogreatacloudofwitnesses."Hebrews12:1

A great many delightful records of the death bed scenes ofmartyrs,ministersofJesusChrist, andprivateChristians,whohaveenjoyed thepresenceofChrist inadyinghour,whohavefelt his love manifested to them, and have received hisconsolations,mightbeadducedtocorroboratetheassertionswehave alreadymade, and to confirm the truth, that Christ doesthusmanifesthislovetodyingbelievers.Weshallintroducethefollowing.

1. Lambert, a martyr under Henry VIII, while he was cruellymangledbythesoldiers'halberts,andconsuminginaslowfire,

raisedhisburninghandsamid the flames, and,with adistinctvoice,exclaimed,"NonebutChrist;nonebutChrist!"

2. Lawrence Saunders, sufferedmartyrdom under the "bloodyQueenMary."Hekissed thestakeatwhichhewasbound,andcriedaloud,"WelcomethecrossofChrist!WelcomethecrossofChrist!Welcomelifeeverlasting!"

3. John Knox, the Scottish Reformer's dying words, were,"Come,LordJesus,sweetJesus!intoyourhandsIcommendmyspirit."Againhesaid,"IhavetastedoftheheavenlyjoyswherepresentlyIshallbe!Now,forthelasttimeIcommitsoul,body,andspiritintohishands."Utteringadeepsigh,hesaid,"Nowitis come!"His attendant desired him to give his friends a signthathedied inpeace.Onthishewavedhishand,andutteringtwodeepsighs,hefellasleepinJesus.

4. John Welsh, the son-in-law of John Knox, was one of themost eminent ministers that the Church of Scotland everproduced.Hediedingreatjoy.Onhisdeath-bed,heseemedtofeel himself on the very threshold of glory: he was filled andoverpoweredwiththesensiblemanifestationsofGod'sloveandglory. His last words were uttered in an ecstasy of joy: "It isenough,OLord,itisnowenough!holdyourhand;yourservantisaclayvessel,andcanholdnomore!"

5.SamuelRutherford,professorofdivinity intheUniversityofSt.Andrew's,was one of themost resplendent lights that everroseinScotlandHediedatriumphantdeath.Hislastmoments,hewasfavoredwithamostwonderfulmanifestationofChrist'slove.He felt thatChristwaswithhim, and thathemanifestedhisgracetohim;andhewas,throughthatmanifestedloveandgrace,enabledtoexclaimwithhisdyingbreath,"Thereisnonelike Christ. I feel, I feel, I believe, I joy, I rejoice, I feed onmanna!MyeyesshallseemyRedeemer,andIshallbeeverwithhim!Andwhatwouldyoumorewant?Ihavebeenasinfulman;butIstandatthebestpassthatoveramandid.Christismine,

andIamhis!Glory,glory,tomyCreatorandRedeemerforever!GloryshinesinEmmanuel'sland!Oforarmstoembracehim!Oforawell-tunedharp."HecontinuedexultinginGodhisSaviorto the last, as one in full vision of joy and glory. At length heenteredintothejoyofhisLord.

"InvainmyfancystrivestopaintThemomentafterdeath;Thegloriesthatsurroundthesaints,Whenyieldinguptheirbreath.Onegentlesightheirfettersbreaks;Wescarcecansay'they'regone,'BeforethewillingspirittakesHermansionnearthethrone."

6. James Durham, on his dying bed, was at first in muchdarknessofhismind.He said to a friend, "For all that I havepreachedandwritten,thereisbutonescripturethatIcanthinkof,ordaretolayholdof.Tellme,brother,ifImaydarelaytheweightofmysalvationonit:"Whoevercomesuntome,Iwillinnowisecastout!" "Thatyoumaydependon,"said theministerin reply," though you had a thousand salvations at hazard!"Having remained some time in silence, he at length camejoyfullyfrombeneaththedarkcloud,andcried, inaraptureofjoy,"IsnottheLordgood?Ishenotinfinitelygood?Seehowhesmiles!Idosayit,andIdoproclaimit!"

7.ThenobleMarquisofArgyle,onthemorningofhisexecution,whilesettlinghisworldlybusiness,was sooverpoweredby themanifestationofdivineloveandgoodness,thathebrokeoutinaholyrapture,andsaid,"IthoughttoleaveconcealedtheLord'sgoodness;butitwillnotdo.Iamnoworderingmyaffairs;andGodissealingmychartertomyheavenlyinheritance,andisjustnowsayingtome,Son,beofgoodcheer;yoursinsareforgivenyou!"

8.JamesGuthrie,agodlyminister,thecompanionofthenoble

Argyle,exclaimed,whenonthescaffold,"Jesus ismylightandlife, My righteousness my strength and salvation and all mydesire!Him,OHimdo I commendwith allmy soulunto you.BlessHim,Omysoul,nowandforever!Now,OLord, letyourservantdepartinpeace;formyeyeshaveseenyoursalvation."

9.ThepiousHerveyclosedhislifeinpeace.Hislastwordswere:"HowthankfulamIfordeath!ItisthepassagetotheLordandGiverofeternal life.Owelcome,welcomedeath!Youmaywellbe reckoned among the treasures of a Christian– to live isChrist; to die, is gain! Lord, now let your servant depart inpeace;formyeyeshaveseenyoursalvation!"ThenhefellasleepinJesus.Oh,whatahappydeath;todieuntotheLord-tosleepinJesus!

10.WilliamRomainewasaneminentpreacherofthegospelofJesus,anddieda joyfuldeath.Hehadthe loveofChrist inhisheart;andHewasveryprecioustohiminthehourofdeath."Ihave,"saidhe,"thepeaceofGodinmyconscience,andtheloveofGodinmyheart.Jesusismorepreciousthanrubies;andallthat can be desired on earth, is not to be compared to Him."Beingnearhisdissolution,hecriedout,"Holy,holy,holyLordGodAlmighty!GlorybetoyouonHigh,forsuchpeaceonearth,and goodwill tomen." One time he said, "I havemuch of thepresenceofJesuswithme."

11.Doddridge,aneminentservantofChrist,said,onhisdeath-bed, "I am full of confidence: there is a hope set beforeme; Ihavefled;Istillflyforrefugetothathope.InhimItrust.InhimIhavestrongconsolation,andshallassuredlybeacceptedinthebelovedofmysoul."

12.TheimmortalBaxterclosedhiscoursefullofjoyandpeace.To someministers around him, he said, "I have peace, I havepeace!" "You are nowdrawing near your long- desired home,"saidone."IbelieveIbelieve,"wasthereply.Whenthequestionwasputtohim,"Howareyou?"hepromptlyanswered,"Almost

well!" To a friendwho entered the chamber, he said, "I thankyou, I thank you for coming." Then fixing his eye on him, headded, "The Lord teach you how to die!" These were his lastwords.

13.JohnJaneway,ayoungministerofEngland,diedoneofthemust triumphant Christian deaths on record. Not a worddropped from his lips, which did not breathe of Christ andheaven.HisSaviorwaswithhimintheharkvalley;thearmsofChristsupportedhim;theloveandsmilesofChristcheeredhisdepartingsoul,andmadedeathitselfsweettohim.Hebrokeoutin such words as these: "O, he is come! he is come! O, howgloriousistheblessedJesus!HowshallIspeakthethousandthpart of his praises! O for words to set out a little of thatexcellency; but it is inexpressible! O, my friends, come lookupon a dyingman, and wonder! I myself cannot but wonder!Was there ever greater kindness? Were there ever suchmanifestationsofrichgrace?O,whyme,Lord;whyme?Ifthisbedying,dyingissweet!LetnoChristianbeafraidofdying.O,deathissweettome!Thisbedissoft!Christ'sarms,hissmiles,hisvisits;surelytheywouldturnhellintoheaven!Whatareallhumanpleasures compared to one glimpse of his glory,whichshinessostronglyonMysoul?Ishallsoonbeineternity!Ishallsoon see Christ himself, who died forme, who lovedme, andwashedmeinhisblood!Ishallsoonmingleinthehallelujahsofglory!IthinkIhearthemelodyofheaven,andbyfaithIseetheangelswaitingtocarrymetothebosomofJesus,andIshallbeforever with the Lord! And who can choose but rejoice in allthis?"

Oftenhewouldsay,"O,thatIcouldbutletyouknowwhatInowfeel! O, that I could express the thousandth part of thatsweetnessthatInowfindinChrist!Youwouldallthenthinkitwellworthwhiletomakeityourbusinesstobereligious.O,mydear friends,we little thinkwhatChrist isworthuponadeathbed!Iwouldnotforaworld,no,formillionsofworlds,benowwithoutChrist andpardon."To those aroundhim,he said, "O

thatglory,theunspeakableglorythatIbehold.Myheartisfull!myheartisfull!Christsmiles,andIcannotbutsmile.ThearmsofmyblessedSaviorareopentoembraceme;theangelsstandreadytocarrymysoulintohisbosom.O,didyoubutseewhatIsee,youwouldallcryoutwithme,'Howlong,dearLord?Come,LordJesus,comequickly!'O,whyarehischariotwheelssolongincoming?IsolongtobewithChrist,thatIwouldbecontentedtobecutinpieces,andtobeputtothemostexquisitetorments,sothatImightbutdieandbewithChrist!O,howsweetisJesus!'Come,LordJesus,comequickly!'Death,doyourworst.Deathhas lost its terribleness. Death! it is nothing to me! Death isnothing (throughgrace) tome. I can as easily die, as shutmyeyes,orturnmyheadandsleep.IlongtobewithChrist:Ilongtodie."

TohisChristianfriendswhocametoseehim,hesaid,"Ohelpme topraiseGod, I havenothing else todo, from this time toeternity, but to praise; and loveGod!O, praise, praise, praise,that infiniteboundless love thathas to awonder, lookeduponmy soul, and done more for me than for thousands of hischildren!Bless theLord,Omy soul, andall that iswithinme,blesshisholyname!Helpme,helpme,Omyfriends,topraiseandadmirehimthathasdonesuchastonishingwondersformysoul– he has pardoned all my sins; he has filled me with hisgoodness;hehasgivenmegraceandglory, andnogood thinghashewithheldfromme."

Onanother occasion,heuttered suchwords as these, "AdmireGodforeverandever,Oyouredeemedones!O,those joys, thetasteofwhichIhave!Theeverlastingjoyswhichareathisrighthandforevermore!Eternity,eternityitselfistooshorttopraiseGodin.OblesstheLordwithme!Come,letusshoutforjoy,andboastintheGodofoursalvation.O,helpmetopraisetheLord,forhismercyenduresforever."Againhesaid,"Ishallpresentlybehold Christ himself who died for me, and loved me, andwashedmeinhisownblood.Ishall,beforeafewhoursareover,be in eternity, singing the song ofMoses, and the song of the

Lamb. I shall presently stand upon Mount Zion, with allinnumerablecompanyofangels,andthespiritsofthejustmadeperfect, and Jesus, the mediator of the new covenant. I shallhear the voice ofmany people, and be one among them, whoshallsay,hallelujah,salvation,glory,honorandpower,untotheLordourGod!And yet a littlewhile, and I shall singunto theLambasongofpraise,saying,Worthyareyoutoreceivepraise,whowasslain,andhasredeemedustoGodbyyourblood,outofevery kindred and tongue, and people, and nation, and havemadeusuntoourGod,kingsandpriests,andweshallreignwithyouforeverandever."

Afewhoursbeforehisdeath,hesaid,"Andnow,dearLord,myworkisdone.Ihavefinishedmycourse,Ihavefoughtthegoodfight; and henceforth there remains for me a crown ofrighteousness. Now come, dear Lord Jesus, come quickly." Atlengthhiscoursewascompleted,andthis lovelyservantof theLordfellasleepinJesus.

14. The great Thomas Halyburton, one of the most learneddivinesofScotland, andprofessor of divinity in theUniversitySt. Andrew's, breathed out his soul to God in a triumphantdeath.The followingwerehis lastwords: "Idare lookdeath inthe face, in itsmost ghastly shape, andhope soon to have thevictory over it. Glory, glory to him!O,what aGod do I see! Ihaveneverseenanything like it.Thebeginningandtheendofreligion arewonderfully sweet! I long for his salvation: I blesshisname,Ihavefoundhim!Iamtakenupinblessinghim;Iamdyingrejoicing in theLord!O, Icouldnothavebelieved that Ishouldbear,andbearcheerfully,asIhavedone,thisrodwhichhas lain longonme.This is amiracle!Painwithoutpain!Yousee a man dying; a monument of the glorious power ofastonishinggrace!"

Sometimeafter,hesaid,"WhenIshallbesoweakasnolongertobe able to speak, Iwill, if I can, give you a sign of triumphwhenIamneartoglory."Hedidso:forwhenonesaid,"Ihope

youareencouragingyourselfintheLord,"beingnowunabletospeak, he lifted tip his hands and clapped them, and in a fewmomentsexpired.

15.AugustusTopladyclosedalongandeminentlyholylife,byaverytriumphantdeath.Hesaid,"Ohowthissoulofminelongstobegone:likeanimprisonedbird,itlongstotakeitsflight.O,thatIhadthewingsofadove,Iwouldfleeawaytotherealmsofbliss,andbeatrestforever!I longtobeabsentfromthebody,andpresentwiththeLord."Atanothertimehesaid,"Owhatadayofsunshinehasthisbeentome!Ihavenowordstoexpressit;itisunutterable!O,myfriend,howgoodourGodis!Almostwithoutinterruptionhispresencehasbeenwithme."Beingnearhisend,hesaid,"Owhatdelights!Whocanfathomthe joysofthethirdheavens!"Andjustbeforeheexpired,hesaid,"Theskyisclear;thereisnocloud;come,LordJesus,comequickly!"

16.ThomasScott, the commentator,diedahappy, triumphantdeath.TheloveofChrist filledhissoul;andhisdyingbedmaybesaidtohavebeensublimelyChristian!Amongthelastwordsheutteredwerethese,"Lordsupportme!LordJesusreceivemyspirit! Christ is my all! He is my only hope! O to realize thefullness of joy! O, to be donewith temptation! This is heavenbegun! I amdonewithdarkness forever! Satan is vanquished!Nothingremainsbutsalvationwitheternalglory,eternalglory!"

17. Dr. Condict, President of Queen's (now Rutger's) College,NewJersey,wasknowntobemuchafraidofdeath,buthediedtriumphantly.Raisinghimself fromhispillow,hestretchedouthisquiveringhands,andexclaimed,"Ihavefoughtagoodfight,Ihavefinishedmycourse,Ihavekeptthefaith;henceforththereislaidupformeacrownofrighteousness,whichtheLord, therighteousJudge, shallgiveme."Thenheadded, "Letuspray;"andhavingutteredabriefandsolemnprayer,hegently leanedbackonhisbillow,andclosinghiseyeswithhisownhands,soonfellasleepinJesus.

18.Dr.Dwight,PresidentofYaleCollege, closedhisuseful lifebyapeacefulandhappydeath.Herequestedhisbrothertoreadto him the 17th chapter of John.While listening to the latterverses of that chapter, he exclaimed, "O, what triumphanttruths!"Someonerecitedtohimapartofthe23rdPsalm,andasked"Canyounowsay,thoughIwalkthroughthevalleyoftheshadowof death, Iwill fear no evil, for you arewithme?"Hereplied, "I hope so."He died in peace, cheered by his Savior'spresenceandlove.

19.Dr.EdwardPaysonwasaneminentChristian,andadevotedministerof theLord.Hediedamost triumphantdeath.Whenabout to finish his course, he thus commenced a letter- "Dearsister,wereItoadoptthefigurativelanguageofBunyan,ImightdatethisletterfromthelandofBeulah,ofwhichIhavebeenforsomeweeksahappyinhabitant.Thecelestialcityisfully inmyview;itsgloriesbeamuponme;itsbreezesfanme;itsodorsarewafted tome; its sounds strike uponmy ears; and its spirit isbreathed intomy heart.Nothing separatesme from it but theriverofdeath,whichnowappearsbutasaninsignificantbrookthatmay be crossed at a single step, whenever God shall givepermission. The Sun of righteousness has been graduallydrawingnearerandnearer,appearinglargerandbrighterasheapproached;andnowfillsthewholehemisphere,pouringfortha flood of glory, in which I seem to float like an insect in thebeamsofthesun,exulting,yetalmosttrembling,whileIgazeonthis excessive brightness, and wondering with unutterablewonderwhyGodshouldcondescendthustoshineuponasinfulworm. A single heart, and a single tongue, seem altogetherinadequate to my desires; I want a whole heart for everyseparateemotion,andawholetonguetoexpressthatemotion."

Amongthelastwordsofthisexcellentandpiousdivine,arethefollowing: "A young man, when about to leave the world,exclaimed, "The battle's fought, the battle's fought; but thevictory is lost forever!"But I can say, "Thebattle's fought, thebattle's fought, and the victory is won! The victory is won

forever! I am going to bathe in an ocean of purity, andbenevolence,andhappiness,toalleternity!"

Again– "Hitherto I have viewed God as a fixed star; brightindeed, but often interceptedby clouds.Butnowhe is comingnearer andnearer; andhe spreads into a sight so vast, and soglorious, that the sight is too dazzling for flesh and blood tosustain!"

On one occasion, when laboring under vary acute pains, heexclaimed,"TheseareGod'sarrows;buttheyaresharpenedwithlove."Onceheexclaimed, "Victory, victory!Peace, peace!"Thelast words he was heard to whisper, were these: "Faith andpatience, hold out!" Thus died Dr. Payson; and he has left aglorioustestimonytothetruthofthereligionofJesus.

20. Harlan Page was an eminent Christian, and used greatpersonal efforts for the souls of individuals; and in his death,Christwaswithhim."Adeath-bed,"saidhe,"isapreciousplace,whenwehavethepresenceofChrist–thentowaketoagloriousimmortality." Again, "I feel as if I had got half way home. Icannotbeartostop.Itwouldbeapitytohavethefleshreturnonthese limbs again." Again he said, "I commit myself to you,Jesus,Saviorofsinners.OtheinfiniteloveofChrist!Imaystopmymouth,andlieinthedust."HeappearedtofeelthathehadobtainedanewviewoftheloveofChrist;thereforehesaid,"ItseemsasifIneverknewbeforewhatitwastolovehim.O,whocanhelplovingsuchablessedSavior!"

Againherepeatedthesewords:"OwhenshallIgohome?Howlongmust Ibeburdenedwith thisbody!TheLordknowshowmuchsufferingIneed,topreparemeforhiskingdom."A littlebeforehisdeath,heexclaimed,"Home!home!"andprayed:"Oforafreeandfulldischarge!LordJesus,comequickly!Whywaityourchariotwheelsso long?Idedicatemyself toyou.OmayIhave the victory. O come quickly! Come, Lord Jesus, comequickly!"

21.DavidBrainerddiedahappydeath.Withperfectcomposureof mind, this eminent servant of God saw the approaches ofdissolution.Tohim, deathwasnot an enemy, but a friend– itwas the longexpectedmessenger, sent to conveyhimhome tohisheavenlyFather'shouse.Hewouldexclaim,"Oh!whyisthechariotsolongincoming?Whytarrythewheelsofhischariot?Come,LordJesus;come,quickly!"Inthishappyframeofmind,heexpired.

22. Risdon Darracott, an eminent servant of the Lord JesusChrist,saidonhisdeath-bed,"IamgoingtothatJesuswhomIlove, and whom I have so often preached. Come, Lord Jesus,comequickly!Whyareyourchariotwheelsso longacoming?"Thenightbefore,hedied,hesaid,"OwhatagoodGodhaveIinChrist Jesus! Iwould praise him, butmy lips cannot. Eternitywillbetooshorttospeakhispraises."HerelatedhisexperienceofthegoodnessofGodtohimduringhissickness,andsaid,"IfIhada thousand lives to live, Iwould live themall forChrist! Ihavecastanchoronhim,andrelyonhisblood,andamgoingtoventure my all upon him. There is nothing on earth I desire!HereImwaiting!WhatamercytobeinJesus!"Hethenthrewabroadhis arms, and exclaimed, "He is coming!he is coming!Butsurely thiscan'tbedeath!Ohowastonishingly is theLordsofteningmypassage!SurelyGodistoogoodtosuchaworm!Ospeed your chariotwheels!Why are they so long in coming? Ilongtobegone."At lengthhefellasleepinJesus,whomhesomuchloved,andwhomanifestedsuchtenderlovetohiminthehourofdeath.

23.Mrs.CatharineBrettergh,asingularChristianofLancashire,England,wasblessedtodieacomfortableandjoyfuldeath.Thefollowingweresomeofherlastwords:"OthejoysthatIfeelinmysoul!OmysweetSavior,shallIbeonewithyou,asyouareonewiththeFather?Owonderfulisyourloveme,whoambutdust!Tomakesuchaoneas Iapartakerofyourglory!O thatmytongueandheartwereabletosoundforthyourpraisesasI

ought!"

24. The amiable and pious Hannah Housman, when on herdeath-bed,oftensaid,withsmilesinherface,andtransportsofjoy:"Come,LordJesus;comequickly!Whytarrythewheelsofyour chariot? O, blessed convoy! come and fetch my soul, todwellwithGod,andChrist,andperfectspirits,foreverandever!WhenIjointhatblessedsocietyabove,mypleasureswillneverend.O,theglory,theglorythatshallbesetontheheadoffaithandlove!"

25. Jeremiah Evarts, so well known by every friend ofmissionaries,diedatriumphantdeath.FeelingtheloveofChristin his lastmoments, he broke out into rapturous expressions:"Praisehim,praisehim,praisehiminawaywhichyouknownotof."Someonesaidtohim,"YouwillsoonseeJesusasheis,andknowhowtopraisehim."Hereplied,"Owonderful,wonderful,wonderfulglory!Iwillpraisehim!Iwillpraisehim!Wonderfulglory!Jesusreigns!"

2O. Richard Cecil often exclaimed on his death-bed, with themartyrLambert,"NonebutChrist;nonebutChrist!"AshedrewnearerandnearertodeathJesusChristwashisonlytopic,andashorttimebeforehedied,herequestedoneofhisfamilytowritedown for him in a book the following sentence: "'None butChrist, none but Christ,' said Lambert, dying at the stake; thesame, in dying circumstances, with his whole heart, saysRichardCecil."

27. John Rees, of London, uttered the following words on hisdeath-bed:"Christinhisperson,Christintheloveofhisheart,andChristinthepowerofhisarm,istherockonwhichIrest;andnow,(reclininghisheadonthepillow,)"Death,strike!"

28.Mrs.HannahWoodd, repeated the followingwords, whennearherdissolution: "Oh! I amveryhappy! I amgoing tomymansion in the skies. Thank God, I have a hope built on the

Rockofages.Iamdying,butIamgoingtoglory.IshallseeHimasheis.Ishallbeforevernearhim,andbeholdhisface.BlessedbeGod!BlessedbeGod!"

29.Mrs.Atthans,anexcellentChristianlady,leftthistestimonyto the cause of Christianity: "I bless God, I have not one fearconcerningdying.ThatAlmightyLord,whohassowonderfullypreservedmetothepresentmoment,willnotforsakemeinmylast extremity. No! when flesh and heart fail, he will be thestrengthofmyheart,andmyportionforever."

30.We shall close our records of triumphant deaths, with anaccountofthelasthoursofaremarkablypiousyounglady,wholately went to glory; and whose death-bed scene, it was theprivilegeoftheauthortowitness.

He had often read accounts of the triumphant deaths ofbelievers, but never before had he seen such an illustriousexhibitionofdivinegrace,andlove,manifestedtoasaint,inthehour of death. Not until then, did he feel that there was suchpower in the religion of Jesus, to sustain, and to cheer in thehourofdissolution.Thisyoungladyhadbeenconfinedtoabedofseveresufferingforoneyear.Atlasthersoulwasripenedforglory.Thetimecamethatshemustdieandherdeath-bedwasasceneof triumph.Christwasveryprecious toher;andhis lovewas wonderfully manifested to her soul. She often exclaimed,"Mybelovedismine,andIamhis."

Thefollowingareamongherlastwords.Toherdistantbrothershethusdictateda letter. "Dearbrother, Iknownotwhether Ishallmeetyouagainonearth;butIhopetomeetyouinheaven,whereweshallbeforeversingingthepraisesofGod;wheretheLamb,whoisinthemidstofthethrone,shallfeedus,andleadus unto living fountains of waters, and where God shall wipeawayalltearsfromoureyes."Toherfather,whosaidtoher,"IfearImustloseyou;"shereplied,"Yourlosswillbemygain!IhaveabuildingfromGod,ahouse,notmadewithhands,eternal

in theheavens."Andagainwhenhe said, "I think youwill fallasleepinJesus;"sheresponded,"Itwillbeahappychange."

Asherfriendswerestandingaroundherdyingbed,shesaidtoabrother,"Haveyouanywordstosay?"HeimmediatelyrepeatedPsalm23:4"Yes,thoughIwalkthroughthevalleyoftheshadowofdeath, Iwill fearnoevil, foryouarewithme; your rodandyourstafftheycomfortme."Thesewordswereveryrevivingtoher.She seemed to feel thatChristwaswithher in that tryingmoment,thathislovewasshedabroadinherheart;for,turningherself, she exclaimed in a transport of joy, "Oh! I would notgiveupChristforalltheworld!"

"WhomhaveIintheheavenshigh,Butyou,OLord,alone?AndintheearthwhomIdesire,Besideyouthereisnone."

"I hope that I shallmeet you all in heaven,wherewe shall beforeverwiththeLord."ShewishedthatChristmightbepraised;and that he might be magnified by her dying breath. To herbrother she said, "I hope youmay livewithChrist, and praisehimthroughouttheendlessagesofeternity."

Shewasaskedbyone,if,duringhersicknessshehadnotoftenexperiencedsomethinglikeheavenuponearth.Sherepliedthatshe had.Her earthly course being nearly finished, she openedher eyes, which were soon to be closed in death, and in thelanguageofstrong,unshakenfaith,exclaimedwithJob,"Butasforme, Iknow thatmyRedeemer lives, and thathewill standupontheearthatlast.Andaftermybodyhasdecayed,yetinmybodyIwillseeGod!Iwillseehimformyself.Yes,Iwillseehimwithmyowneyes.Iamoverwhelmedatthethought!"Onceshebrokeoutintoaraptureandexclaimed,"O,tobeeverwiththeLord,whatahappychange!"

A little while before her death, one said to her, "It is a happy

thingwhenthebelievercansaywhenabouttoleavetheworld,Ihavefinishedtheworkwhichyougavemetodo."Shesaidyes;and added, (though with great difficulty, her breath beingalmostgone),"Iamnowreadytobeoffered,andthetimeofmydepartureisathand.Ihavefoughtagoodfight,Ihavefinishedmycourse.Ihavekeptthefaith;henceforththereislaidupforme a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteousJudge, shall giveme at that day; andnot tome only, but alsountoallthosewholovehisappearing."Herfaithremainedfirmuntotheend,andherhopeandconfidenceunshakentothelast.Herskywasclearandserene,hermindcalmandcomposed,andthus she fell asleep in Jesus, and entered into the joy of herLord.

Asthewritergazeduponthesolemnscenebeforehim,hecouldnotbut feel the forceofRevelation14:3, "Blessedare thedeadwhichdieintheLord."Afewdaysbeforethisyoungladydied,she requested the following verses to be read at her funeral.Theyaretoobeautiful,andimpressivetobeomittedhere.

Tomyyoungcompanions–

"Myyouthfulmates,bothsmallandgreat,Standhere,andyoushallsee,Anawfulsight,whichisatypeOfwhatyousoonwillbe!

IusedtoappearoncefreshandfairAmongtheyouthfulcrowd;Butnowbeholdmedeadandcold,Wrappedinasableshroud!

Mycheeksoncered,likerosesspread,Mysparklingeyessogay;Butnowyouseehow'tiswithme,Alifelesslumpofclay!

Whenyouaredressedinallyourbest,In'fashion'socomplete,Yousoonmustbeasyouseeme,Wrappedinashroudingsheet!

Ah,youthbeware,anddoprepareTomeetthemonster,death!Forhemaycomewhenyouareyoung,Andstealawayyourbreath!

Whenyouuntoyourfrolicsgo,RememberwhatIsay;Inashorttime,thoughinyourprime,Youmaybecalledaway!

NowIamgone,Ican'treturn;Nomoreofmeyou'llsee;Butitistruethatallofyou,Mustshortlyfollowme!

Whenyouuntomygravedogo,Thatgloomyplacetosee,Isaytoyouwhostandandview,Preparetofollowme!"

Andnow,reader,canyounotsay,"Letmediethedeathoftherighteous,andletmylastendbe likehis!"Howimportant is itthen thatyoushouldnowchooseChrist inorder thatyoumayenjoyhisloveandpresence,notonlythroughlife,butalsointhehourofdeath!IfyoubelongtoChrist,youwillfindhim,inthelasthouroflife,afriendthatstickscloserthanabrother.WhatanawfulthingitistodiewithoutsalvationbyChrist,withoutasaving interest in him; and yetmillions livewithoutGod, andwithout hope in theworld; andmillionsmoredie in the sameawfulcondition,andplungeintoadarkandmiserableeternity.O,beadmonishedtochooseChristintime,andhewillbeyoursindeath,andineternity.

How unspeakably blessed it is to enjoy the love and smiles ofChristinadyinghour!Thenwhatcantheworlddoforyou?Thetearsofyourfriends,and theexertionsofyourphysicians,willthenbeunavailing.ItisChristalonethatcanmakeadying-bedeasy and comfortable. His love and presence will sustain you,andhisalmightyarmssupportyou.

"Thoughunseenbyhumaneye,TheRedeemer'shandisnigh,Hehaspouredsalvation'slight.Farwithinthevaleofnight;TherewillGodmystepscontrol,Therehispresenceblessmysoul.Lordwhatevermysorrowsbe,Teachmetolookuptothee."

"Hewhoisthuswithyou,"saysanexcellentwriter,"willaffordallneedfulcomfortandsupportinthetryinghour.Hewillopenat that time treasures of grace and strength, towhich youhadbeen previously a stranger. The Redeemer himself is present,notonlytoguidehissaints,buttoinfusethatcomfortandvigorwhichwill abundantly compensate for the sinkingsof expiringnature.Whobut thosewhohaveenteredheaven,can tellwhatunearthly joys are granted the saint in a dying hour? Often,there is reason tobelieve, they transcendeverythingpossessedinthepresentlife.Theremaybevisionsofgloryrealizedbythespirit, which are second only to those of heaven. The dyingexperienceofmanysaintshasbeenofthemostdelightfulkind.WhethersuchhopesandjoysaswereaffordedtoJanewayandothers, will be vouchsafed to you, you know not; nor is itnecessaryyoushouldknow.Whatever isnecessaryforyouinadyinghour,Christwillbestow.Hesays, "Mygrace issufficientforyou."Remember,thathehassaid,"Don'tbeafraid!IamtheFirstandtheLast.Iamthelivingonewhodied.Look,Iamaliveforeverandever!AndIholdthekeysofdeathandthegrave."

Whenwecontemplatethose,whosedeathswehaverecordedinthisvolume,wemayjustlysay,"Thesealldied infaith."Letusalso be "followers of those who through faith and patienceinherit the promises." "Therefore, since we are surrounded bysuchahugecrowdofwitnessestothelifeoffaith,letusstripoffeveryweightthatslowsusdown,especiallythesinthatsoeasilyhinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the racethatGodhas setbeforeus.Wedo thisbykeepingoureyesonJesus,onwhomour faithdepends fromstart to finish." If youbelong to Christ, hewill love you in life, in death, and in thathappyhome,whichhislovehaspreparedforyou.

In conclusion, Christian reader, you will soon exchange theabodes ofmortality for the regions of bliss. Then look beyondthegrave.Donotconfineyour thoughts to thisearthlygloomyplace.Contemplatethesublimerapturesofyourfutureexistencebeyond the precincts of time. Christ shall one day break theslumbersofthegrave,andyouwillarisetoimmortality.

TheloveofChristdoesnotstopatdeath.Itextendsbeyondthissolemnperiod. Itwill accompanyyou into theheavenlyworld;your everlasting happy home– and youwill soon arrive there.Fromthevalleyof theshadowofdeathyoushallascendtothesummitofZion.You shall "come toMountZion, to the city ofthe living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to thousands ofangels in joyful assembly. You have come to the assembly ofGod's firstborn children, whose names are written in heaven.Youhave come toGodhimself,who is the judgeof all people.Andyouhavecometothespiritsoftheredeemedinheavenwhohavenowbeenmadeperfect.YouhavecometoJesus, the onewhomediatesthenewcovenantbetweenGodandpeople,andtothesprinkledblood,whichgraciously forgives insteadofcryingoutforvengeanceasthebloodofAbeldid."

Forthedarknessofmortality,youshallobtainthebrightgloriesofheaven."YoureyesshallseetheKinginhisbeauty;theyshallbehold the land that is very far off." You will possess the

promisedland,theheavenlyCanaan.Thenshallthedaysofyourmourning be ended. Raised in the likeness of your blessedRedeemer, you shall, finally, be presented faultless before thepresence of his glory with exceeding joy! Entering the fairmansionsofglory,youshallreignwithyourglorifiedRedeemer,forever and ever! O! happy outcome to the Christian's shortpilgrimageonearth!

With such cheering prospects to he realized, can you not alsosay,intheprospectofdeath,withmanydyingsaints,"Ihaveadesire to depart, and to bewithChrist. Amen. Even so, come,LordJesus,comequickly!"

InthefollowingchaptersweshallcontemplatethathappyhomewhichChrist,inhisgreatloveforalostworld,hasnowgonetoprepare for his children. "For we know that when this earthlytent we live in is taken down—when we die and leave thesebodies—wewill have ahome inheaven, an eternalbodymadeforusbyGodhimselfandnotbyhumanhands.Wegrowwearyinourpresentbodies,andwelongforthedaywhenwewillputonourheavenlybodieslikenewclothing."

"Howhappyisthedyingsaint,Whosesinsareallforgiven;WithjoyhepassesJordan'sflood,Upheldbyhopesofheaven.TheSavior,whomhetrulyloved,Nowcheershimbyhisgrace;Aglorygildshisdyingbed,Andbeamsuponhisface.EcstaticjoyandheavenlyblissSwellhisenrapturedheart;Heviewsthepromisedlandofrest,Andpantsforhisdepart.Terroranddreadarebothunknown;Sweetpeaceandhopeappear,Toguidetheblessedtravelerhome,

Andallhisfootstepscheer.AngelsoflightattendantwaitHisspirittoconveyBeyondthisdrearabodeofnightTorealmsofendlessday.Oh!mayIlivethelifeoffaith,Aboundinholylove,TilldeathshallbearmyjoyfulsoulToZion'scourtsabove."

THEHAPPYHOMEINVIEW

"InmyFather's house aremanymansions: if itwere not so, Iwouldhavetoldyou.Igotoprepareaplaceforyou."John14:2

"TherearemanyroomsinmyFather'shome,andIamgoingtoprepare a place for you. If this were not so, I would tell youplainly."John14:2

"AswhenthewearytravelergainsTheheightofsomeo'er-lookinghill,Hisheartrevives,ifcrosstheplainsHeeyeshishome,thoughdistantstill.Whilehesurveysthemuchlovedspot,Heslightsthespacethatliesbetween;Hispastfatiguesarenowforgot,Becausehisjourney'sendisseen.ThuswhentheChristianpilgrimviewsByfaith,hismansionintheskies,Thesighthisfaintingstrengthrenews,Andwingshisspeedtoreachtheprize.Thethoughtofhomehisspiritcheers,Nomorehegrievesfortroublespast;Noranyfuturetrialfears,

Sohemaysafearriveatlast.'TistherehesaysIamtodwellWithJesus,intherealmsofday;ThenIshallbidmycaresfarewell,Andhewillwipemytearsaway.Jesus,onyouourhopedepends,Toleadusontoyourabode;AssuredourhomewillmakeamendsForallourtoilwhileontheroad."JohnNewton

Christ has not only manifested his love to a lost world in hisincarnation,sufferings,anddeath,butalsoingoingtoprepareaplace, a happy home, for those whose salvation he hasaccomplished. Said the blessed Redeemer, to his sorrowfuldisciples,whenhewasabouttoleavetheworld,"Igotoprepareaplaceforyou."

Christ has manifested most amazing love to believers, inpreparingfortheireternalabode,mansionsofglory,ahousenotmade with hands, eternal in the heavens; a city which hasfoundations, whose builder and maker is God. Heaven is aprepared place for believers; prepared byChrist in his infinitelove. The love of Christ will make heaven a glorious, happyabodeindeed.Oh!whatahappyhomewillheavenbe.Therealltheredeemedshallfinallyassemble,tospendoneeternaldayinthegloriouspresenceofEmmanuel.Whocanfullydescribethejoys of the Christian's happy home? Feeble mortals could notcomprehendthedescriptionifitshouldbegiven.

WhathumanmindcanconceiveoftheunspeakableblessednesswhichawaitsthechildofGodinthatupperandbetterworld,hishappyhome!Dearbeliever, toknowwhatheavenreally is,youmustputoffmortality."Noeyehasseen,noearhasheard,andnomind has imagined what God has prepared for those wholovehim."

Isnotyourhappyhomealwaysinview?Doyounotlongforthe

approach of that joyful day, which will introduce you into themansionsofglory,andbringyoutoyourendless,happyhome?How short is the space that lies between you and glory! Thetime, how short! Already is the night far spent. The day is athand; that blessed day which will bring each weary Christiantraveler home, and seat him in his Father's house; that housenotmadewithhands,inwhichtherearemanymansions.

Themapofheavenislaidwideopenforyourinspection.Oftenobtain a glimpse of the happy land. Be always lookingheavenwardandhomeward.Letheavenbealways inyoureye,and the earth under your feet, and in a little while God shallwipeawayalltears;youwillreachyourjourney'send;thenfaithshallbe turned intovision;hope, into fruition;andyouwillbefullysatisfiedwiththegoodnessofGod'shouse.

As you now survey the glories of your happy home, does notyour heart exult at the prospect? And is not the thought ofHOME at all times refreshing?What name ismore endearingthan home, sweet home; around which so many hallowedassociations cluster?Christian,heaven is youronly truehome.Hereonearth,youhavenocontinuingcitynorplaceofabode.Thedivinecommandis,"Arise,anddepart; forthis isnotyourrest." "There remains therefore a rest for the people of God."God has provided a better home for you, than this pollutedworld. O, remember that you are a stranger and pilgrim onearth. Let your course be onward in the Christian's journey.Quickenyourpaceon theroad toglory.Yourhappyhomewillnotbealwaysinview;itwillsoonbeinpossession!

Reader,areyoupressingupwardtotheChristian'shappyhome?Isheaventhehomewhichyouexpecttoreach?Doyoulongtoarrive at those everlasting mansions in the sky? Then let thehopeofeternalgloryelevateyouraffectionsaboveallsublunaryobjects."SinceyouhavebeenraisedtonewlifewithChrist,setyoursightsontherealitiesofheaven,whereChristsitsatGod'srighthandintheplaceofhonorandpower.Letheavenfillyour

thoughts.Do not think only about things downhere on earth.ForyoudiedwhenChristdied,andyourreallifeishiddenwithChristinGod.AndwhenChrist,whoisyourreallife,isrevealedtothewholeworld,youwillshareinallhisglory."

The ultimate object of Christ's mediatorial work is to bringsinnerstoglory-toGod'shouse-tothehappyhome;theretheyaretolive;theretoreignforever;theretobeeverwiththeLord.Godwillbringallhisdearchildrenhometoglory.Thenhewillreceive them, and be a father unto them, and they will be hissons and daughters. They will be forever with their kindheavenlyFather-withtheirblessedelderBrother-withprophetsandapostles-withsaintsandangels-withoneanother.Whatahappymeeting!Whatblessedsocietywillthesaintsenjoy!Thenthey will have gained the prize of the high calling of God inChristJesus.Theywillreceivethosecrownsofglorywhichfadenotaway.TheyshallbekingsandpriestsuntoGod.Theyshallserve him day and night in his temple above. Blest abode!Delightful employment! that of praisingGod!Happy theywhoaretospendeternityinsuchahome;contrastedwiththegloriesofwhich,thisearthisdarknessitself!

Christian,soonshall the interposingveilofmortalitybedrawnaside, and you will behold the glories of that land which nomortal pen can now describe. But is heaven soon to be yourhappyhome?AreyoutheretoreignwithJesus,intherealmsofeverlasting day? there to behold the uncreated glory ofEmmanuel?Thenhowtriflingshouldthe transientconcernsofearthappear toyou!Youshouldsmileat "the frownsof time".Theangrytempestwillsoonbeover.Theswellingwavesoflife'soceanwill soon rise nomore. You will soon have reached thedesiredhavenofeternalrest,theblessedshoresofimmortality,thehappyhome;andthathomewillmorethancompensateforallthetoiloftheway.

"Soonwillyoureachtheblestabode.Wherehappypilgrimseverreign;

SoonshallyouseethefaceofGod,Andalltheblissofheavenobtain."

Livewithyourhappyhomealways inview.Let thegloriesofacoming eternity revive your drooping spirits, amid life's trialsand life's conflicts. The road to glory is but a short one. Amomentofthatintervenes,andtheneternalagescommencetorollaway.Afterthispresentbriefmomenthaspassed,youwillenter upon a state of endless felicity. Arrived at your happyhome, youwill take up an everlasting song of praise; you willcelebratethevictoriesofredeeminglove,throughoneunendingday.

Youhave overcome, through the blood of theLamb.Youhavebeenmorethanaconqueror, throughhimwho lovedyou.AndnowyoushallstandamonumentofGod'slove,andmercy,andgrace; you shall bemadeapillar inhis glorious temple above,where there shall be no more going out. You shall live withChrist,andpraisehimthroughout theendlessagesofeternity.You shall behold Emmanuel in his unveiled glory. You shallpraisehimforthatunboundedlove,whichhasobtainedforyouimmortalbliss.

O, Christian! the love of Christ has procured that unfailingwreath of glory, which will one day be entwined around yourbrow;thatradiantdiademwhichyouwillforeverwear.TheloveofChristhaspreparedahappyhome foryour reception,whenthis sublunary scene shall have vanished from your mortalvision.Allthehappinessyouenjoyintime;alltheglorythatwillcrownyouthrougheternity, flowfromtheloveofChrist.Makehimyourboastintime,yourallinall;andmayhebeformedinyou,thehopeofglory.

Happy are they who have fled for refuge to the world'sRedeemer. He will carry them to glory! Reader, may thisprecious Savior be yours; in life, in death, and in eternity.ConductedbytheCaptainofyoursalvation,youwillalsoreach

the Christian's happy home, and realize the joys of a blessedimmortality.

What glorious prospects are presented to the eye of faith, thespiritual vision of the Christian! He views the never-endinggloriesof theheavenlykingdom; and in that viewhe loses thesightof terrestrialgrandeur.Hequicklyglidesoverthenarrowstream of time; until he finds himself sailing on the vastunboundedoceanofeternity,aneternityofblessedness.Heliftshis eyes to the hills, from where comes his help; thoseeverlasting hills which tower aloft, beyond the swellings ofJordan; beyond the valley of the shadow or death.He expectssoon to reach theheightsofZion. "Theywill continue to growstronger,andeachofthemwillappearbeforeGodinZion."

Inthemeantime,Omysoul,meditateuponthegloriesofyourhappyhome.Whatmustbe the feelingsof theChristian,whenhe views all heaven as his own; when he can claim all thedelights of the celestial paradise as his, and looks upon theworldtocomeashiseternalhappyhome!

Come,Christian,surveythehappyland,youreverlastinghome.Life is fast hastening away. The oscillating tides of time arebearing you onward and homeward. Every wave of life'stempestuousoceanisonlywaftingyoutothehappyshoresofablessedeternity.Thenlookbeyondthispoordyingworld!Lookat that eternal homewhich Christ has prepared for you! Viewthecelestial city, irradiatedby thegloryofGodand theLamb!Seethepearlygates,thegoldenstreets,theshininginhabitantsoftheNewJerusalem!TheuncreatedgloryofGodwillenlightenthat cityof everlastinghabitation,which the loveofChristhasprepared. What a blessed habitation has Christ prepared forbelievers!What a glorious inheritance has he promised them!Come,mysoul,andsurveyit.

"Mysoul,onPisgah'smountascend,WhereMosesonceadmiringstood;

ThereviewthepromisedlandextendBeyondtheswellingJordan'sflood.Byfaithsurveythelandscapeo'erWherelivingwatersgentlyflow;Tillearthusurpyourlovenomore;Tillallyourkindlingpassionsglow.Inthatblessedregionofdelight,Thesaintsnosinnorsorrowfeel,Eternaldayexcludesthenight,Andallpossessthespirit'sseal.Theransomedsoulingloryclad,Shinesbrighterthanmeridiansun;Thewearypilgrim,nowsosad,Therefindshistoilsomejourneydone."

Omysoul,riseandsoaralofttotheheavenlyCanaan!Mountupasuponeagles'wings,andbeholdthekinginhisbeauty,andtheland that is afar off. Leave the world to those who seek theirpleasures and happiness in its perishing enjoyments, and setyour affections on things above, where Christ sits at the righthand of God. How the world recedes from your view, as youobtainaglimpseoftheheavenlyland!Theshortlivedpleasuresofearth,andthe transientshowofsublunarymagnificence,nolonger fascinate the mind, as it gains a Pisgah view of theChristian's endless happy home, the glories of which baffle alldescription!

TheloveofChristismostillustriouslymanifestedtobelievers,inhis going to prepare such a home for them.Omatchless love!thatJesushasnotonlydiedforsinners,buthasgonetopreparemansions above, where they shall reign with him in eternalglory!Hastenon,Ojoyfulday,whentheredeemedoftheLordshall come to Zion with songs; when ransomed sinners shallcommence to celebrate the wonders of redeeming love inmansionsofglory!

Look forward, Christian reader, to the consummation of your

bliss. With joy, anticipate the glories of the resurrectionmorning; a morning that will dawn upon the glorified saint,withouta single cloud todarkenhisbeatific vision,orobscurethe glorious rays of the Sun of righteousness, that shall arisewith healing in his beams, and forever gladden the hearts ofmillionsofhappysaints!Whatahappydaywillthatbe,whenallthe children of God shall reach their everlasting home; thosemansionsintheskies,whereallareperfectlyblessedinthefullenjoymentofGodthrougheternity!

Dearbeliever, inhumbleconfidenceinGod,waitwithpatienceuntil the coming of the Lord Jesus; until you are brought intothefullpossessionoftheheavenlyinheritance."AllhonortotheGod and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, for it is by hisboundlessmercy that God has given us the privilege of beingbornagain.Nowwe livewithawonderful expectationbecauseJesusChrist roseagain fromthedead.ForGodhas reservedapriceless inheritance for his children. It is kept in heaven foryou,pureandundefiled,beyondthereachofchangeanddecay.AndGod,inhismightypower,willprotectyouuntilyoureceivethissalvation,becauseyouaretrustinghim.Itwillberevealedonthelastdayforalltosee."

Blessed Jesus! keepme by your almighty power through faithunto salvation.Spiritualizemy affections– elevatemy views totheworldofglory.Weanmyheartfromthefleetingenjoymentsof this mortal life, this perishing earth. Satisfy me with yourgoodness andmercy; visitme with your salvation, and at lastbringmehometoyourselfinglory.

"ThenletmysoulforeverraiseTheincenseofadoringpraise;Andjointheheavenlychoirsabove,Insweetestsongsofgratefullove."

Reader!lookbeyondthissublunarysceneofchangingmortality."All,allonearth isshadow;allbeyondissubstance.Howsolid

all,wherechangeshallbenomore!"

Soar aloft on the wings of faith, and roam in imaginationthrough the myriads of ages that lie beyond the precincts oftime;andinthoseregionsofimmortalitypreparedforthejust,mayyourealizethejoysofendlesslife,ofanimmortalexistence,andofan inheritancebeforewhich thesplendorofa thousandworlds fades; which will endure when this earth and all herterrestrialgloryshallhavepassedaway,andwhenthesunshallhavecasthislastrays,andthestarshavesetinendlessnight!

"Life'stheaterasyetisshut;anddeath,Strongdeathalone,canheavethemassybar,Thisgrossimpedimentofclayremove.Andspringtolife,Thelifeofgods;ohtransport!andofman."

"And now, all glory to God, who is able to keep you fromstumbling, and who will bring you into his glorious presenceinnocentofsinandwithgreatjoy.Allglorytohim,whoaloneisGod our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Yes, glory,majesty,power,andauthoritybelong tohim, in thebeginning,now,andforevermore.Amen."Jude1:24-25

THEHAPPYHOMECONTEMPLATED–BEINGWITHCHRISTINGLORY

"Father,Iwill thattheyalsowhomyouhavegivenme,bewithmewhereIam."John17:24

"SoshallweeverbewiththeLord."1Thes.4:17

"Inthoseblestregionsofdelight,WhereJesusisunveiledtosight,

Nomortaltonguecane'erexpressTheransomedsinner'sblessedness.

What mortal pen can describe the glowing beauties ofEmmanuel's land! What mortal tongue can express theblessedness of the saints,whengazingupon the heaven-brightgloriesofEmmanuel'sform,anddwellingforeverinhisgloriouspresence, under the resplendent beams of the Sun ofrighteousness!This iswhat the eyehasnot seen;what the earhasnotheard;whattheheartofmanhasneverconceived.Butyet this blessedness awaits all the saints, and will abide withthem through the incessant flow of eternity's immeasurableages.O,happythought!

DearChristianreader,Christhas,inhisinfinitelove,nowgonetoprepareaplace,anendlesshappyhomeforyou;buthewillcomeagain,andreceiveyoutohimself.Hewillnotalwaysleaveyouinthisvalleyoftears.No–whenthisshortlifeisended,youwill"departandbewithChrist;"youwilldwell in thehouseofthe Lord forever. Christ will bring you to his Father's house,where his glorious presence is enjoyedwithout amedium.Hewill welcome you to themansions of glory, to the kingdom ofheaven."Come,youblessedofmyFather, inherit thekingdomprepared for you from the foundation of theworld." "Don't betroubled.YoutrustGod,nowtrustinme.TherearemanyroomsinmyFather'shome,andIamgoingtoprepareaplaceforyou.Ifthiswerenotso,Iwouldtellyouplainly.Wheneverythingisready, Iwill comeandgetyou, so thatyouwillalwaysbewithmewhereIam."

Thus spoke our Savior before he left this world- before heascended to heaven from Mount Olivet. But there is a daycoming,whenthatsameSaviorshallbreakthroughthecloudsofheaven; "when he comes to receive glory and praise from hisholypeople.Andyouwillbeamongthosepraisinghimonthatday,foryoubelievedwhatwetestifiedabouthim."

Job obtained a glimpse of this day. He starts forward on thewingsoffaith,andbeholdsthroughthe lapseofmanyagesthedivine form of his Redeemer.He sees himwith his very eyes."Butasforme,IknowthatmyRedeemerlives,andthathewillstandupontheearthatlast.Andaftermybodyhasdecayed,yetinmybodyIwillseeGod!Iwillseehimformyself.Yes,Iwillseehimwithmyowneyes.Iamoverwhelmedatthethought!"

Christ shall come again, to gather his children home, to thatplacewhichhehas prepared for them.Then shall theword ofcommand, issued from his blessed lips, go forth: "Gather mysaintstogetheruntome,thosethathavemadeacovenantwithme by sacrifice. "For the Lord himself will come down fromheavenwithacommandingshout,withthecallofthearchangel,andwith the trumpet call ofGod.First, all theChristianswhohavediedwillrisefromtheirgraves.Then,togetherwiththem,wewhoarestillaliveandremainontheearthwillbecaughtupin theclouds tomeet theLord in theair and remainwithhimforever.Socomfortandencourageeachotherwiththesewords."Then shall we be ever in his presence, where there is fullnessandpleasureforever.

It is Christ's presence that will make the very heaven ofhappiness,theverycenteroffelicity.ItisbeingwithChristthatwillconstitutethepurest,brightest,noblestheaven.Whatwouldheaven be to the saints, did they not enjoy the presence ofChrist? It would be no heaven to them, though they weresurrounded with the glories of the New Jerusalem. O BlessedJesus! may we be going up through this wilderness world,leaninguponyou;walkingbyfaith;lovingandservingyou;andmaywe finally be brought to behold your glorious face in therealmsoflight,intheparadiseabove,andbeeverwithyou.

"Whatistheworld,butgriefandcare!Whatheaven,ifyouareabsentthere!Yourgloriousfaceilluminesthesky,Andshedsecstaticjoysonhigh."

It is in thepresenceofChrist, thatwewillparticipate in thosepleasureswhich are at God's right hand. "In your presence isfullness of joy: at your right hand, there are pleasures forevermore."Oh!tobeeverwiththeLord!Whathumanmindcancomprehendtheblessednessofsuchastate?Christknowsthisblessedness; andhow ferventlyheprays, "Father, Iwant thesewhomyou'vegivenmetobewithme,sotheycanseemyglory.You gaveme the glory because you lovedme even before theworld began!" This prayerwill be answered.We shall soon bewithChrist.We shall soonbeholdhis glory.Then shallwe seeHimasheis;evenHimwholovedus,andwashedusfromoursinsinhisownblood;whodiedonCalvaryforus;whoseblessedhands, and side, and feet were pierced for us; and whosepreciousbloodflowedsofreelytowashawayoursins–toHimbegloryforever!

Oh! blessed sight. Then shall we gaze forever upon theuncreated glory of Emmanuel, shining forth in full uncloudedsplendor. Then shall we behold the glory of that blessedRedeemer,wholefttheregionsofbliss,toassumemortal fleshanddie forus.Then shallwe seewithourvery eyes,himwhowas crucified for us on Calvary; but, oh! we shall see Himshiningwithinconceivableglory.

ThegloryofChristwillattracttheeyesofalltheredeemed,andhewillbeforever"admiredinallthosewhobelieve.""TheWordwasmade flesh"and thegloryofGod shall shine through thatflesh,makingthatblessedbodymoregloriousthanathousandsuns!

The saints shall dwell forever in the presence of Emmanuel.Thrice happy they,who are to spend eternity in beholding hisradiantglory,and inencompassinghis thronewitheverlastingsongs of salvation! Then shall it be proclaimed through theheavenlymansions,"Behold,thetabernacleofGodiswithmen,andhewilldwellwith them,and they shallbehispeople;and

Godhimselfshallbewiththem,andbetheirGod."

Inheaven,thesaintswillenjoythesocietyoftheLordhimself;whichistheperfectionofhappiness.SaysChrist,"WhereIam,thereshallalsomyservantbe."O! tobeevernearHim; toseeHimas he is; to be like him; to beholdhis glory; to have thatglory revealed in us; to praise Him eternally in themansionsabove!Whatahappyhomewill thisbe! "Yes,dear friends,wearealreadyGod'schildren,andwecan'tevenimaginewhatwewillbe likewhenChristreturns.Butwedoknowthatwhenhecomeswewillbelikehim,forwewillseehimashereallyis."

Oh,tobeliketheblessedJesus;toseehiminglory!Whatheartwoulddesiremore?Thenshallwecommencetotreadwithourelder Brother, and adorable Redeemer, the ceaseless circuit ofeternity. Then shall the wonders of his love be incessantlyunfoldedbeforeus-causingnewsongsofpraisetoascendfromourenrapturedsouls,tohimwhositsuponthethrone.Whocanexpressthedelightsthesaintsmustfeel,whentheylookintothefaceofChrist,andtherereadhistenderlovetothem!

But oh, how completely engulfed in the abyss of infinite love,andlostinwonderandpraise,mustoursoulsbe,whenwegazeupon the scarswhichmark thehandsand feetandsideofourblessedSavior,andtherereadtheimmensityofthatlovewhichmadehimdieforus!"AndIbeheld,andlo,inthemidstofthethrone, and of the four beasts, and in themidst of the elders,stood a Lamb as it had been slain." In those blessed regions,whereHeisunveiledtothesightofmortals,Jesuswillgladdenour hearts with perpetual joy, and love us with an everlastinglove.

ItistheprivilegeofbelieverstobewithChrist;tospendeternityinhispresence;togazeforeverupontheSunofRighteousness,shininginhismeridiansplendor.Thatsunwillneversetinthe"newheavens."His beamswill always irradiate the city of ourGod,ourhappydwellingplace.

Christ's presence will make "our Father's house" a glorioushome,ahappyabode, a blessedhabitation.Wherehe is, therewillheavenbe.Hisgloriouspresencewill illuminate theabodeoftheblessed,therealmsofeverlastingday.And,believerwhenyoucometodwell in thoseblissfulmansions,hispresence, hiscompanionship,his love,andhiscelestialvoicewillcauseyourenraptured soul to rejoice; and eternity will be spent in beingwithhim,andinbeholdinghisglory.

"Oh!tohearthatvoicespeakineffablepeaceandconsolationtoyoursoul; toseeHimashe is,whoseglory infinitelysurpassesallobjectsofnatureandofart;toseethosedearhands,andfeet,and head, whose wounds in suffering for you will be morebrilliant and beautiful in your eye than the topaz of Ethiopia:yes, tohavehis glory revealed in you; tobeperfectly likehim,and to reignwith him: what a heavenwill this be! Then yourunbounded desires, which the whole creation could not limit,shall be satisfied with the full fruition of immortal love. Youshallberefreshedwiththeemanationsofuncreatedlifeandjoy,and shall drink at the fountain-head of pleasure. You shallmingle with society the most pure, perfect and lovely, whosegloryisonlysurpassedbythatofHimwhositsuponthethrone.You shall dwell with kindred spirits, in everlasting harmony.Your employment shall combine all the excellencies of ease,delight, and perpetuity. You will have nothing to do but toworship and serve God, and shall have ability to worship andservehimforever."

Whatahappyhomewillheavenbe,whereweshallbeeverwiththeLord!Howhappywillthesaintsbe,whentheycometodwellinthatheavenlyhome–inthatgloriouspalace,where"Hethatsits on the throne shall dwell among them;" where "the Lambwhoisinthemidstofthethroneshallfeedthem,andshallleadthemunto living fountainsofwaters;andGodshallwipeawayalltearsfromtheireyes."

Of that celestial city, in which the saints are to make theireternalhome,itissaid,"thethroneofGodandoftheLambshallbeinit;andhisservantsshallservehim,andtheyshallseehisface,andhisnameshallbeintheirforeheads."

Thesaints,inheaven,shallseeChristwiththeirbodilyeyes.WeshallseeHim,wholovedus,andgavehimself forus."Nowweseethingsimperfectlyas inapoormirror,butthenwewillseeeverythingwithperfectclarity.AllthatIknownowispartialandincomplete,butthenIwillknoweverythingcompletely, justasGodknowsmenow."Yes,weshallbeholdHisgloriousface,andbefullysatisfiedwithhisimmortallove.

We hope shortly to exchange the trials and afflictions of thisvalley of tears- this suffering, dying world, for the glories ofeternity; and be forever with the Lord. Then will we be donewith transitory life,with grief and care. Thenwill we drink ofaffliction'sbittercupnomore,anddeathitselfwillhavelostitspower over us. Then shall we be lodged in the regions ofimmortality,andbeforeverwiththeLord.

And when ten thousand times ten thousand years have rolledaway;whenagescountlessasthestarswhichdeckthemidnightskyhaveruntheirextensiveround,itmaybesaidthatweare,asitwere, justbeginningtobeforeverwith theLord; thatwearejust beginning to behold his glory, and to look into thatwonderfulcounseloflove,thatgloriousplanofsalvation,whichwill be our theme of meditation, of wonder, and of praisethrough the ceaselessagesof eternity.Then shallweknow thejoyofbeingwithChrist.Then,thereshallbenomoreseparationbetweenChristandhispeople–theyshallthenbebroughtnearhim,andabidewithhimforever.

"Oglorioushour!Oblestabode!IshallbenearandlikemyGod!AndfleshandsinnomorecontrolThesacredpleasureofthesoul."

ItwillbeChrist'samazinglovethatwillthenfillourheartswithjoy unspeakable and full of glory. It will be the brightermanifestationofthatlovewhichwillcauseoursoulstooverflowwithecstaticjoy,aswedwellinthepresenceofEmmanuel,andsurround his throne, and behold his glory. Then shall we bebetter"able tocomprehendwithall saintswhat is thebreadth,and length, and depth, and height, and to know the love ofChrist,whichpasses knowledge."Then shallwe "be filledwithall the fullnessofGod."Oh! the infinite loveofChrist, thatheshouldbringsinnerstoglory,todwellinhispresence,tospendeternitywithhim!"SoshallweeverbewiththeLord."

"ByfaithIseethehourathand,WheninhispresenceIshallstandThenwillitbemyendlessbliss,Toseehimwhereandasheis."JohnNewton

THEHAPPYHOMECONTEMPLATED–THEBLESSEDNESSOFTHESAINTS

"Inyourpresenceisfullnessofjoy;atyourrighthandtherearepleasuresforevermore."Psalm16:11

Come,Omysoul,retirefromthenoise,bustle,andtumultofavainworld,andcontemplateyourhappyhome in theheavens!Lookbeyond this present fleeting scene of existence, and viewyourfuture,eternalrestingplace;andmaythebrightgloriesofheaven, elevate your views and raise your affections above thetransitorypleasuresofthisdecayingscene.

Under the pleasing emblem of a happy home, heaven ismostbeautifully set forth. Christ calls it his Father's house. "InmyFather's house aremanymansions." If we are the children of

God,wemay also call it our Father's house, our happy home;andeachbelievermaysaywiththePsalmist,"IwilldwellinthehouseoftheLordforever.''

Heavenisalsodescribedasagloriouscity.Inhissublimevisionof theheavenlyworld, John thus speaks: "And I John saw theholycity,newJerusalem,comingdownfromGodoutofheaven,preparedasabrideadornedforherhusband;""HavingthegloryofGod:andherlightwaslikeuntoastonemostprecious,evenlikeajasperstone,clearascrystal."Thestreetsofthiscityareofgold;andthegatesofpearl. "Andthetwelvegatesweretwelvepearls; and the street of the city was pure gold, as it weretransparentglass."AndJohnadds,"Isawnotempletherein,fortheLordGodAlmighty,andtheLamb,arethetempleofit."

In this celestial city which is thus beautified by the creativepowerofGod,andenlightenedwithhisglory, thesaintsare tospendtheceaselessagesofagloriousandhappyeternity.Thisisthat citywhich prophets and apostles and saints of every age,havedesired,andlongedfor;thatcitywhichAbraham,when"hesojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country,"looked for. "For he looked for a city which has foundations,whosebuilderandmakerisGod."

Heaven is that better country which all the saints of old, whoconfessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth,desired and sought to obtain. "But now they desire a bettercountry,thatis,aheavenlyone;thereforeGodisnotashamedtobecalledtheirGod;forhehaspreparedforthemacity."Tothisheavenly home,Godwill bring all his children, and Jesuswilltheredwellamongthem,foreverandever.

WhenallthesaintsshallbebroughthometobeforeverwiththeLord, they will be perfectly blessed. They will enjoy theassurance of Christ's love, and the eternal smiles of hiscountenance!What heart can conceive the unutterableblissofthe Redeemed, when brought into the glorious palace of the

great King, where there is fullness of joy, and pleasures forevermore.Theywillbe far fromaworldofgrief,andsin.Theywillbebeyondthereachofsuffering.Nogloomorsorrowshalleverbecloudtheirbrightspirits inthepresenceofChrist.Theyshallbe foreverhappywithhim.Reaching thehappyshoresofEmmanuel'sland,theyshalldwellwithGod.Theyshallseehim."Blessedarethepureinheart,fortheyshallseeGod."

Their souls shall be filled with unutterable bliss, amid thesplendorsofbeatificvision,andthesublimerapturesofcelestialjoys. The ineffable glories of the Deity, shall then beam forthupontheredeemed.And,"thenshalltherighteousshineforthasthe sun, in thekingdomof theirFather."To the love ofChristthesaintswillowealltheirblessednessinthisblessedworld.Letuscontemplatethisblessedness.

In the word of Godwe see it described. In the 7th chapter ofRevelation there is contained a glimpse of heaven- of theredeemed in glory. There we find that when all the redeemedshall be brought home to glory, they will form amighty host."After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from everynationand tribeandpeopleand language, standing in frontofthethroneandbeforetheLamb.Theywereclothedinwhiteandheldpalmbranchesintheirhands.Andtheywereshoutingwithamighty shout, "Salvation comes fromourGod on the throneand from the Lamb!" Millions of Adam's sons and daughtersshall be brought to glory, through the merits of Emmanuel.Therewefromwherethismightymultitudecamefrom.Tothequestions,"Whoarethesewhoareclothedinwhite?Wheredotheycomefrom?"itisanswered,"Thesearetheonescomingoutofthegreattribulation.TheywashedtheirrobesinthebloodoftheLambandmadethemwhite.That iswhytheyarestandinginfrontof thethroneofGod,servinghimdayandnight inhisTemple.Andhewhositsonthethronewillliveamongthemandshelterthem."

Thesaintshave traveleda roughroad toglory,andhavecome

out of great tribulation.Many of them have gone through thefiresofpersecution,andtheirsoulshaveascendedtogloryamidthe flames of martyrdom. Many of that blessed number whonowstandbeforeGod, "werestoned,weresawnasunder,weretempted, were slain with the sword," were once "destitute,afflicted, tormented;" but they have come out of all theirtribulations,andarenowhappybeforethethroneofGod.

Thesaintshaveallwashedtheirrobesandmadethemwhiteinthe blood of the Lamb. They are invested with the snowy,spotless robe of the Redeemer's righteousness. "This," saysHamilton, "is the only garb which a child of Adam can wearbeforethethroneofGod.Andthoughtheapparelofsomemaybe more curiously wrought and exquisitely embroidered thanthat of others, though the hand of the beautifying Spirit mayhave made it 'raiment of needle-work'– the hue and luster ofeachisthesame.Everyspiritinglorywearsthevestureradiantwithredeemingrighteousness-thesnowyrobewhichspeaksofthe fountain opened, and which will commemorate througheternity,thebloodoftheLamb."

Theemploymentofthesaintsinheavenisalsodescribedinthisgloriousvision.TheyserveGod. "Thereforeare theybefore thethrone of God, and serve him day and night in his temple.""Theycrywithaloudvoice,saying,"SalvationtoourGodwhichsits upon the throne, and unto the Lamb." "And his servantsshallservehim."WhatacontrastistherebetweentheserviceofGod on earth, and in heaven!Here, all our divine services areimperfectlyperformed;there,allisperfectionitself.Here,whenthespirit is oftenwilling, the flesh isweak, and soonwearied,even in the sweetest seasons of devotion and heavenlymeditation.There"Eachoftheselivingbeingshadsixwings,andtheirwingswerecoveredwitheyes,insideandout.Dayafterdayandnightafternight they keep on saying, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord GodAlmighty—theonewhoalwayswas,who is, andwho is still tocome."Andagain,"Youareworthy,OLordourGod,toreceive

gloryandhonorandpower.Foryoucreatedeverything,anditisforyourpleasurethattheyexistandwerecreated."

Theemploymentof redeemed saintswill be thatof everlastingpraiseandadoration.TheywillpraiseandadmiretheSavior,forhis unbounded love and goodness to them. They willcontemplatethatglorioussalvation,ofwhich"theprophetshaveinquiredandsearcheddiligently,"andwhich"theangelsdesiretolookinto."RedemptionandsalvationbyChristwillconstitutetheirunendingtheme;inthecontemplationofwhich,theirsoulsshallbe lost inwonder, loveandpraise.AcrucifiedSaviorwillbe the wonder of heaven, and will employ ransomed souls inholymeditationsthroughaninconceivableeternity.

"Christ crucified, "says an excellent old divine, "is the librarywhich triumphant souls will be studying in to all eternity.Eternityitselfwillbetooshort,inwhichtounfoldthewondersof redeeming love, or to speak the praises of that blessedRedeemerwhowascrucifiedonCalvaryforasinfulworld.Withincreasing wonder and admiration shall that ransomed host,whostanduponMountZion,eternallysearchintothewondersof Christ's redeeming love asmanifested to them. And all theredeemedwill cast their crowns before the throne in token oftheir own unworthiness, shall unite in one long, loud, adoringanthemof praise; in one grand, everlasting chorus: 'Worthy isthe Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth andwisdomandstrengthandhonorandgloryandpraise!'Blessing,andhonor,andglory,andpower,beuntohimthatsitsuponthethrone,anduntotheLambforeverandever."

Theysingunceasingpraisestohimwholovedthem,andwashedthem from their sins inhis ownblood. "All praise tohimwholovesusandhasfreedusfromoursinsbysheddinghisbloodforus. He has made us his kingdom and his priests who servebeforeGodhis Father.Give to him everlasting glory!He rulesforever and ever! Amen!" "And they were singing the song ofMoses,theservantofGod,andthesongoftheLamb:"Greatand

marvelousare your actions, LordGodAlmighty. Just and trueareyourways,OKingofthenations.Whowillnotfear,OLord,andglorifyyourname?Foryoualoneareholy.Allnationswillcome and worship before you, for your righteous deeds havebeenrevealed."

Such is theemploymentofheaven;and itsblessed inhabitantsshallhavepowerandability toworshipandserveGodwithoutweariness,forever!

The saints shall be perfectly happy in the presence of Christ.Free from all sorrow, they shall possess immortal joys in thepresence ofHimwho sits on the throne. They shall not knowwhatsorrowisanymore.Alltearsshallbewipedaway;for"Hewhositson the thronewill liveamong themandshelter them.Theywillneveragainbehungryorthirsty,andtheywillbefullyprotectedfromthescorchingnoontimeheat.FortheLambwhostandsinfrontofthethronewillbetheirShepherd.Hewillleadthemtothespringsoflife-givingwater.AndGodwillwipeawayalltheirtears."

Here on earth, the saints weep, and wail, and experience thedistressingcalamities and sorrows ofmortal life. They feel themutations of this ever varying scene. They are often in thedepthsof adversity anddistress.They also experience changesinthespirituallife.TodaytheymaybeonPisgah,withheavenintheirview, rejoicing; tomorrow, in thevalleyofBaca,weeping.Today, the sunshine of Christianity may illumine their path;tomorrow they may wander about, enveloped in spiritualdarkness. Here, the dearest ties are cut asunder, and thetenderestcordsbroken;whichcausesthehearttooverflowwithsorrow.Ourfriendsdie,andtearstrickledownourchecks;andperhapswe ourselves go downwith sorrow to the grave. "Youhave fed them with the bread of tears; you have made themdrink tears by the bowlful." Thus the saints keenly feel thesorrowsofthismortalstate;butinheaven,"Look,thehomeofGodisnowamonghispeople!Hewilllivewiththem,andthey

will be his people. God himself will be with them. He willremovealloftheirsorrows,andtherewillbenomoredeathorsorroworcryingorpain.Fortheoldworldanditsevilsaregoneforever."

In heaven, the saints shall obtain everlasting joy. "Everlastingjoyshallbeuntothem.""ThosewhohavebeenransomedbytheLordwill return toJerusalem, singingsongsof everlasting joy.Sorrowandmourningwilldisappear,andtheywillbeovercomewith joy and gladness." "Thosewho plant in tearswill harvestwithshoutsofjoy.Theyweepastheygotoplanttheirseed,buttheysingastheyreturnwiththeharvest."Andthen"thedaysofyourmourningshallbeended."

Our joy in heaven will be full, satisfying, and eternal. Theredeemedshallbefreefromallthesuffering,pains,anddiseasesthatafflicthumanity,andrender thismortal lifeonecontinualsceneofdistress.Inthathappyworld,"Thepeoplewillnolongersay, "We are sick and helpless," for the Lordwill forgive theirsins.

Immortal health and vigor bloom in heaven. Sin, the cause ofsickness, and pain and sorrow, shall be excluded from thatblessedworld.There,notearsbedewthecheek,nosorrowsrendtheheart,nopainisfelt,nodissolutionisfeared;fordeathitselfisswallowedupinvictory."Andthereshallbenomoredeath."

Thispresent cosmos isnothingbutadyingworld.Here,deathstrikes itsdart, andcutsdownourdearest friends.Perhapshewhonowreadstheselinesmayhavestoodoverthedyingbedofadearrelativeorfriend,and,withbittersorrow,takenthe lastfarewell,andwitnessedthedeathstrugglesofhimorherwhomheloved.

Deathannually sweepsoffamultitudeof thehumanrace.Thesunnowshinesupon thegravesof thousands,who,buta yearago,bloomedwithhealthandvigor.Wherearetheynow?Gone!

Nowtheyarenumberedamongthedead.Now,cladwithallthehabiliments of the grave, they are cold and lifeless in death'snarrowhouse-inthegrave'sdismalmansion.

Inheaventhereshallbenomoredeath,norpainfulseparationof kindred souls. Eternal life shall be enjoyed by the blessedinhabitants of the New Jerusalem. The last enemy shall havebeen destroyed. Then will God say, concerning his redeemedones, "I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I willredeem them from death. Where, O death, are your plagues?Where, O grave, is your destruction?" Then, "our perishableearthly bodiesmust be transformed into heavenly bodies thatwillneverdie.Whenthishappens—whenourperishableearthlybodies have been transformed into heavenly bodies that willneverdie—thenat last theScriptureswill come true:"Deathisswallowedupinvictory.Odeath,whereisyourvictory?Odeath,where is your sting?" In those celestial mansions, all theimmortal sons of God shall meet in blissful harmony andadoringpraise,tobeforeverwiththeLord.

Thesaintsshallenjoyeternalrestinheaven."Therethewickedceasefromtroubling,andtherethewearyareatrest."Theyshallbe perfectly holy and happy; and shall eternally bask in thesunshine of God's immediate presence, and drink of thoseperennialstreamsthatissuefromthefountainoflife.TheLambshallfeedthem,andleadthemtolivingfountainsofwaters.

"TheGodhead is a boundless sea, onwhich the thin island ofcreationfloats;andthoughtheregionbeeversodryandarid–aburningBaca;andthoughtheobjectbeeversobleakandbald–a grim Horeb, a flinty rock; it needs only the touch of theprophet'srod,andforthwithafountainspringsasexhaustlessasthatdivineperfectionfromwhereitflows.Inthatbettercountrythe Horeb never staunches, and the Baca never dries: thefountains play perpetually, and the waters ever live; and theLamb is familiarwith them all. To thewoody brink of one heleadshiswhite-robed followers; and in its fringing glories and

profoundpopulous, they read the richesof creativepowerandskill.Tothemelodiousvergeofanotherheconductsthemandinthefountainoflightwhichgusheshigh,andflingsitsrainbowswide; in the balm scattered by its wafted dews, and the songwithwhich thebrancheswave, theyhear it endlessly repeated,'Godislove.'Andtoanotherstillheguidesthem;andsimpleasthemargin looks, and limpid as the waters are, it dilates anddeepens as they gaze; deepens, until itmocks the longest line;widens, until Gabriel's eye can see no shore; and in itsfathomless abyss, and ever-expanding bounds, they recognizethe divine unsearchableness. In Paradise, every fountain lives,andeachfountainisalessonfullofGod."(Hamilton)

The saints shall spend an everlasting day of light andblessedness inEmmanuel's land– "and there shall benonightthere." Eternal day smiles in those blessed regions. "Your sunshallnomoregodown,neithershallyourmoonwithdrawitself;fortheLordshallbeyoureverlastinglight,andthedaysofyourmourningshallbeended."

In that bright worldwhich the saints are going to possess, allwill be irradiated by the glory of God and of the Lamb. ThegloriousSunofrighteousnesswillilluminatetheheavenlyworld,the celestial city. "No longerwill youneed the sunormoon togive you light, for the Lord your God will be your everlastinglight,andhewillbeyourglory.""Andthecityhasnoneedofsunormoon,forthegloryofGodilluminatesthecity,andtheLambisitslight.Thenationsoftheearthwillwalkinitslight,andtherulersoftheworldwillcomeandbringtheirglorytoit.Itsgatesnevercloseattheendofdaybecausethereisnonight."

The saints "shall inherit all things," and "reign with Christforeverandever."Such is theblessednessof thesaints;and tocrownalltheirheavenlybliss,itwillbeETERNAL.Heavenisastateofnever-endingbliss.Eternitystampsaninfinitevalueoncelestialhappiness."Oyoublestscenesofpermanentdelight!

Full,abovemeasure!lasting,beyondbound!Aperpetuityofbliss,isbliss."

Withregardtoeternity,whatastrikingcontrastthereisbetweenearthly and heavenly joys! How transient are all sublunarypleasures?"Passingaway,"isindeliblystampeduponallthatisterrestrial."Theworldpassesaway,andthelustthereof."Youthandbeauty, health and strength, riches and honor are passingaway. Incessant changes characterize this globe, and all itsinhabitants;butnosuchchangesareknowninheaven.

"Lord,Ilongtobeathome,Wherethesechangesnevercome!Wherethesaintsnowinterfear,Where'tisspringthroughouttheyear;Howunlikethisstatebelow!Theretheflowersunwitheringgrow,Therenochillingblastsannoy,Allislove,andbloom,andjoy."

ThejoysoftheChristian'shappyhomeneverend.Thepleasureswhich are at God's right hand endure forever. "Oh yes! thosesweet words forever, shall be attached to everything in glory.Youshalleatof the treeof life;drinkof thewaterof life;wearthecrownoflife;youshallbemadeapillarinthetempleofGod,and there shall be no more going out." But oh! what is theforever of heaven;who can describe it?Who can comprehendvasteternity,themeasureofthesaint'sbliss?

"Were the house you inhabit, "says Pike, "to be filledwith themostfinesand,andthenemptiedsoslowlythatbutthesmallestgrainshouldbetakenoutonceintenthousandyears,howmanymillions of ages should pass away before the last grain wereremoved! Yet, compared with eternity, these countless yearswould be like the twinkling of an eye. Were the mighty seaswhich dash their waves upon somany shores, to be suddenlychanged into one mass of ink, and then to be employed in

numberingdownfigures,andthelastfiguretosignifyamillionofyears,whatcountlessageswouldbenumbereddown beforethe seaswere emptied!Yethewhowrote the last figuremightsay, 'These ages are not eternity; they are nothingness itself,comparedwitheternity;lessthanonedropcomparedtoallthesea;lessthanonemomentcomparedtoalltheseinfiniteyears;theyarelikeatalethatistold;orasighthatisforgotten."

Were this vast universe onemass of sand, andwere themosthigh God, by his infinite power, to create as many worlds astheremightbegrainsofsand;andwerehethentocommissionaministering angel to destroy then all, by removing grain aftergrain; yet so slowly that he should remove but one grain in amillionyears;whatmillions,andmillions,andmillionsofyears,beyondallthoughtandconception,wouldpassawaybeforeoneworld were thus destroyed! And O, what before all thesenumberswere!Whatineternitywouldbehere!Aneternity!no,not a moment, compared with it. Sand after sand would beremoved,though,atso infinitelyslowarate;worldafterworldwouldbedestroyed;andtheangelwouldfinishhistask,butnotfinish eternity! Eternity would be eternity still! One grain ofsandwouldbear someproportion to thesenumberlessworlds;one moment would bear some proportion to these countlessmillionsofages;butallthesewouldbearnonetoeternity;whentheywerepassed,itwouldstillbe'beginning–ratherbeginningtobegin.'Suchistheforeverofheaven!

Eternity!whocangrasptheimmenseideawhichthisshortwordconveys?Whenmillionsandmillionsofagesshallhavepassedaway,theblessedinhabitantsofEmmanuel'slandwillbeyoungin immortality,andtherewill stillbestretchedbefore themall"evermore,"inwhichtheywillenjoyperfectblessednessatGod'srighthand.Oh!whatablessed,happyhomeisheaven.

"Andwhat a home for us to return to and abide in forever! Ahomepreparedbefore the foundationof theworld.Ahome inthemanymansions;ahomeintheinnermostcircleofcreation,

nearestthethroneandheartofGod;ahomewhosepeaceshallnever be broken by the sound of war or tempest, whosebrightnessshallneverbeovercastbytheremotestshadowofacloud.How solacing to the weary spirit, to think of a resting-placesohear,andthatresting-placeourFather'shouse,whereweshallhungernomore,neitherthirstanymore;wherethesunshallnotlightonus,noranyheat;wheretheLambthatisinthemidstofthethroneshallfeedus,andleadustolivingfountainsof waters, and God shall wipe away all tears from our eyes."(Bonar)O!hownearisourhappyhome–itisjustwithinsight.Hownear,howveryneariseternity–itisevenatthedoor!

Christian reader, you shall soon, very soon, reach your happyhome. Already your earthly course may be nearly terminated.One stepmore, and youwill have gained the happy shores ofEmmanuel'sland.Havingcrossedthetempestuousoceanoflife,you will enjoy the refreshing breezes of heaven, and the calmrepose of the saint's everlasting home. Your redemption isdrawing near. "Now is our salvation nearer than when webelieved.Thenightisfarspent,thedayisathand."Afewmoresunswillriseandset,andthentheunsettingsunshallriseinthe"newheavens."Afewmoredays,andthenwilldawntheeternalday.Afewmorefleetingyearswillpassswiftlyby,andthentheeverlastingcyclesofeternitywillrollon.Youwillsoonexchangea cross of suffering on earth, for a crown of glory in heaven,immortal,incorruptible,andthatfadesnotaway.

You will soon join with the whole family of God, in thecontemplation of Christ's redeeming love. One theme– that ofredemption, shall then employ every soul, and every tongueshallbetunedtothepraisesofEmmanuel.Withyourredeemedcompanions in glory, you will soon unite in that sweet song,"Untohimthatlovedus,andwashedusfromoursinsinhisown(yes,hisownmostprecious)blood,andhasmadeuskingsandpriestsuntoGodandhisFather;tohimbegloryanddominionforeverandever.Amen."

Thetimeisshort."TheLordisathand.""SurelyIcomequickly.Amen.Evenso,comeLordJesus."

CHRIST,ANDHIMCRUCIFIED

PREFACE

Inpresenting thesepages to theChristianpublic, theobjectoftheauthor is simply toexhibitChrist andHimcrucifiedas theonlyhopeofa lostworld. In this essaywehaveendeavored tospeakoftheExcellencyofthesubject-ofthePersonofChrist-ofthe Glory of Christ- of Christ Crucified- of Redemption byChrist-oftheNewSonginGlory-oftheSumandSubstanceoftheGospel-oftheonlyHopeoftheSinner-andoftheCrossofChrist.ThisvolumeisnowcommendedtotheblessingofGod.May He grant that, through these page, some despairing soulmaybeledtohopeinChristandHimcrucified.Maysinnersbeattractedbythegloryof thecrossofJesus;maysaintshebuiltupintheir"mostholyfaith;"andtotheEternalFather,Son,andSpirit,atriuneGod,beallthepraise.

And now, dear reader, in the language of William Mason, "IcommendyoutoGod,andtothewordofhisgrace,wishingyousweet comfort inperusing thesemeditations. If ourLordgivesyouasmuchinreadingasIhavefoundinwritingthem,youwillhavegreatreasonforloveandpraise.Acceptthem,asthelaborof one who is no prophet, neither a prophet's son, but whowouldgloryinbeingasavedsinner,bythecrossofJesus;"andwhose delight it ever is to dwell on the blessed theme ofredeeminglove.

"BlestSavior,withdelightIdwellOnthemesnomortaltonguecantell;ThegloryofyourcrossexceedsAllhumanandangelicdeeds."

BlessedJesus!Let thewordsofmymouth,andthemeditation

ofmyheart,beacceptable in your sight,OLord,myStrength,andmyRedeemer.Amen.

"Thoughbillowsofsorrowshouldroll,Andsurroundmeoneveryside;Yetyoucanthetempestcontrol,MySavior,myRefuge,andGuide.Yoursmilemakesthesoultoexpand,Andgracescelestialtogrow;WithraptureIgazeonthelandWherepleasuresincessantlyflow.'TistheremydearSaviorresides,Infullnessofgloryandgrace;AndtherethepureriverthatglidesThroughregionsofjoyandofpeace.Thelife-yieldingtreethereshallspreadItsbranchesluxuriantlyround;Thesaintsrobedinwhiteshallbefed,WithfruitsfromImmanuel'sground.Howdeepisthemysteryofgrace!Thethemeofbrightseraphsabove;Toseethesweetbeamsofhisface,Todwellintheessenceoflove!MyFather!yournatureislove;InJesusyourimageIview!OhmayIbeholdhimabove,Andpraisehimeternallytoo.Maythismydelighteverbe,Onearthhisrichgracetorecord;AndwhenfromthesetemplessetfreeWithjoyascenduptotheLord."

THEEXCELLENCYOFTHESUBJECT

"Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the

pricelessgainofknowingChristJesusmyLord.Ihavediscardedeverything else, counting it all as garbage, so that Imay haveChrist."Philip.3:8

In the physical, intellectual and moral world there are to befoundmanyimportantandinterestingsubjects.Thewholecircleof science embraces many topics of absorbing interest to theman of genius. Human learning exalts man to that grandelevationof intellectual greatness, fromwhichhe viewsnatureinallhermagnificence,revelsamidherbeauties,androams,inimagination,fromstartostar,fromsuntosun,wheretheDeityreignsinallthegrandeurofhisattributes.Nowonder,then,thathumanlearningshouldbesohighlyprized,andsoassiduouslysoughtafterbyrationalbeings.Butthereisasubjectofinfinitelygreater importance than all science or human knowledge; asubjectwhich above all othersmay be denominated sublimelygreatandinteresting;andwhich,tothethirstysoulofapenitentsinner,ismostrefreshingandexhilarating.ThatthemeisChristandhimcrucified.

AlltheholyangelsthatsurroundthethroneofGod,withalltheredeemed in glory, look upon this subject with unboundeddelight and increasing admiration, but can never fullycomprehend its sublimity and moral grandeur. It is theunendingthemeofheaven,thejoyofsaints,theastonishmentofangels.It isasubjecttooloftyforhumanskill;angelicintellectcan never comprehend it. We cannot adequately declare itsvastness,muchlesscomprehendits fullness.It is inexhaustiblein its nature. The highest intelligences that move amid theglories of Paradise cannot fathom its profundity. The mightyoceans that divide continents, and dash their waves onnumberlessshores,maybeexhausted.Notso theexcellencyofthe knowledge of Christ Jesus. The countless luminaries thatdecoratethenocturnal sky, and lightup the canopyofheaven,maybeextinguishedineternaldarkness,butthisgloriousthemeshallshineforeverintheperfectionofbeauty.

When the last lines of earth's history shall have been written,yes,whenthisterrestrialglobeitselfshallhavebeenwrappedinthe flamesof the judgment day, and all the redeemedbroughthome to glory, Christ and him crucified will form the all-absorbing subject that shall engage the capacious and exaltedminds of heaven's blissful inhabitants, in holymeditation andrapturousdelight,throughablessedandgloriouseternity.

Then,believer,ifyouaretospendeternitythus,shouldyounotemploy the short space of time which intervenes between youandtherealmsofglory,inthecontemplationofthiswonderofwonders,thismysteryofgodliness–acrucifiedSavior?MayGodin his infinite mercy grant that you may be led to form theresolution of the great Apostle, who, when writing to theCorinthians, declares, "I determined not to know anythingamongyouexceptJesusChristandhimcrucified."

"Christ crucified" said Stillingfleet, "is the library in whichtriumphant souls will be studying in, to all eternity. Otherknowledgemakesmen'sminds giddy and haughty; this settlesandcomposes them.Otherknowledge is apt to swellmen intohigh conceits and proud opinions of themselves; this bringsthem to the truest view of themselves and thereby to humilityandsobriety.Other knowledge leavesmen's hearts as it foundthem;thisaltersthem,andmakesthembetter.SotranscendentanexcellencyisthereintheknowledgeofChristcrucifiedabovethemostsublimespeculationsintheworld."

Shouldyounotthenspendmuchofyourtimeinmeditatingonthisglorious theme?Where in thewholeworld can you find asubjectsoexcellent,soconsoling,soanimatingasthis?O,then,study Christ and him crucified. Be diligent and ardent in thepursuitofthisknowledge,foritalonecanguidetheChristiantoimmortalbliss!

A knowledge of Christ and him crucified, is indispensable tosalvation. "I am theway," says Christ, "and the truth, and the

life:nomancomesuntotheFather,butbyme.""Iamthedoor:bymeifanymanenterin,heshallbesaved,andshallgoinandout,andfindpasture."BythatgreatatonementwhichhemadeonCalvary,ourblessedSaviorhasabolisheddeath,andbroughtlifeandimmortalitytolight.TheradiancywhichtheknowledgeofacrucifiedSavioremitslightamidthedarknessofmortality,dispelsthegloomthatoverspreadsthemind,anddissipatesthedarknessthathoversaroundthepathwaytoimmortality.

ThisknowledgemakestheChristian'seyebrightwithhope,andanimates him on his way to the mansions of glory. It tearsasundertheveilthathidestheunseenworldfrommortalview,and holds up to the Christian's enraptured gaze, the untoldgloriesofheaven.Itpointsdirectlytotheonlysacrifice forsin,JesusChrist,thebleedingLambofGod.ItleadsyoutoCalvary,where,amidtheaffectingandoverpoweringscenesexhibited,itopenstoyourastonishedviewtheportalsofheaven,andpoursinafloodoflightandglorythatdazzlestheeyeoftheChristian,sheds effulgence around the throne of God, and beams withuncloudedsplendorthrougheternityitself.

The saving knowledge of Christ and him crucified, leads thesinnertogloryandhappinessatGod'srighthand.Itwillcrownhimwithunutterablebliss.Itwillpreparehimfortheenjoymentof heaven; for the reception of that unfading wreath of glorywhichshallbeentwinedaroundthebrowofthefaithful;forthatglitteringdiademwhichshallbeplaceduponhishead;andforthoserobesofsalvationwithwhichheshallbeeternallyarrayedbeforethethroneofGod.

How important then is this knowledge which leads to suchblessedresults,tosuchunspeakableglory!Othateachofusmaybecome experimentally acquainted with Christ and himcrucified.Permitmetourgethismomentoussubjectuponyourserious consideration. You should give it a thoroughinvestigation. Your immortal destiny is embraced within itsextensivescope.Toneglectit,willbeattheperilofyoureternal

happiness.Othen,webeseechyouwiththeutmostcompassionfor your immortal soul, to attend to this gloriousmessage, theproclamationofacrucifiedSavior,andeternallifethroughhim.

Thisgreatandall-importanttheme,thegloryofwhichnomortaltongue can express, is more intimately connected with yourpresent and future welfare than all other subjects within therangeofhumanacquisition.Wewouldnot,inthislittlevolume,display before you the airy speculations of philosophy or thevarious charms of human science; but we would, with ardentlanguage,holduptoyourview,Christandhimcrucified,asyouronlyhope;astheonlyhopeofalostworld.

Here, sinner, is your hiding-place. Under the shadow of Himwho once groaned and bled on Calvary, you can find eternalrepose."Andamanshallbeahiding-placefromthewind,andacovertfromthetempest;asriversofwatersinadryplace,astheshadowofagreatrockinawearyland."JesusChristisheresetforth in all the richness of his grace.He is here offered, freelyofferedtodyingsinners.EmbracehimasyouronlySavior;whilepassingthroughthiswearyland–throughthiswildernessworld,leanonHim,whowillguideyousafelytoglory.InHim,youwillexperience that joy which the world cannot impart, and thatpeaceofGod,whichpassesallunderstanding.

By that blessed sidewhichwas once piercedwith the soldier'sspear,youwillenjoythefavorsandsmilesofareconciledGod.From those deep wounds that were inflicted on the Savior'simmortalform,fountainsofjoy,asinexhaustibleastheoceanofdivineperfectionitself,willflowinthericheststreamsofgrace,to refresh, invigorate and animate your soul. O! there issomethingaboutCalvarysomysteriousinitsnature;sogloriousinitsresults.Timecanneverdisclose,norvasteternityunravelthosethingsconnectedwiththataffectingscene,displayedwhentheSonofGodbowedhisheadandexclaimed"Itisfinished."

Thissubjectembracesthismystery,andconsequentlywillbethe

theme of the redeemed to alt eternity. It comprehends theglorious plan of redemption and all the wonders of Christ'sredeeming love. Itdoesnot lead the sinner toSinai, and thereleave him amid the dreadful thunder and lightning and flameandsmoke.No, it gentlydrawshim toCalvary, that life-givingmount, where the unbounded love of God for sinners onceglowed in the bosom of his Son, with more than humansplendor; where it beamed forth in all the effulgence of thedivinity,whentheholyJesushungasuffering,bleeding,victimon the ignominious cross.Howglorious is sucha subject! It isfullofChristandsalvation throughhim. Itvividlydisplays thematchlessmercy,andboundlessloveofGodtoalostworld.

"Oh!howmatchlessisthismercy!Howunboundedisthislove!'Tisourjoyonearthtofeelit;'Tisthethemeofsaintsabove."

Let the knowledge of Christ and him crucified dwell in yourichly. Endeavor to knowmore andmore about the person ofyour gloriousRedeemer; about thatwonderful deathwhich heaccomplished at Jerusalem, and that all-sufficient atonementwhich he effected on Calvary. Christ and him crucified is thesweetest,noblestthemeonwhichasouleverdwelt.Holyangelsontheirloftythrones inglory,desiretostoopfromtheheightsofcelestialbliss,andlookintothiswonderfulabyssofloveandmercytofallenman–thegiftofaSavior–aglorioussalvation.Wellmaywe,whoare theobjects of suchunprecedentedlove,raiseourgratefulheartstotheGodofheaven,andshoutforthinlanguage like this–Glory toGod in thehighest for suchpeaceandgood-willtowardmen.

Christian,mayChristandhimcrucifiedeverbeyourdelightfulthemeonearth,untilmortalityisswallowedupinlife,untilyouare admitted into the glorious presence of Immanuel, and seehimfacetoface,andbeginyourunceasingsong,untohimthatlovedyouandwashedyoufromyoursinsinhisownblood.Can

younotnowsaywiththeApostle,"Yesdoubtless,andIcountallthings but loss for the excellency or the knowledge of ChristJesusmyLord."O that every reader could joinwith us in thefollowingbeautiful,glowinglinesofthepoet,

"Youaremyall!Mytheme!myinspiration!andmycrown!Mysoul'sambition,pleasure,wealth;myworld.Mylightindarkness!andmylifeindeath!Myboastthroughtime!blissthrougheternity!Eternityistooshorttospeakyourpraise,Orfathomyourprofoundlovetoman!Tomanofmanthelowest,eventome,Mysacrifice;myGod!"(Young)

THEPERSONOFCHRIST

"Youarefairerthanthechildrenofmen."Psalm45:2

"Mymeditationofhimshallbesweet."Psalm104:34

BeforewedwellonthemeltingstoryofCalvary,orexhibittoyouacrucifiedSavior,oraffordadisplayofhisgloriousatonement,let us advert to the divine person and character of ourImmanuel. Let us admire his glorious perfections. A savingknowledge of Christ will constitute the foundation of ourimmortaljoys;willleadustoeternallife,andthehigheststateoffelicityinheavenabove."Andthisislife;eternal,thattheymightknowyou,theonlytrueGod,andJesusChristwhomyouhavesent."

O, that wemight obtain a glimpse of thematchless person ofChrist!O,thatwemightbehold"theKing,inhisbeauty."Surelythen would our sight and eyes be turned away from viewing

vanity. If there is an object in the universe that should attractour attention, excite our admiration,warmour affections, anddemandourlove;surelyitisthegloriousSavior,theblessedSonof God, who is the brightness of his Father's glory, and theexpressimageofhisperson.ChrististhemostgloriousbeingintheuniverseofGod.BlessedJesus!revealyourselfuntousinallyourtranscendentloveliness,inallyoursurpassingbeauty.

"Youarefairerthanthechildrenofmen;""thechiefamongtenthousand;" "yes, you are altogether lovely;" "you are theblooming rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys."Manifestyourself unto us as you do not unto the world. Gladden ourguiltysoulswiththebeamsofyourmercyandgrace.Unfurlthebannerofyourwondrousloveoverus;encircleusinthearmsofyour compassion, and lift upon us the light of your graciouscountenance.

We can know but little, comparatively, of the excellence andgloryofChrist'sperson,untilweseehimonhisheavenlythrone,inallhisunveiledglory.Thenshallweseehimasheis,facetoface,andforeverbeholdhismatchlessbeauty.Whataglorioussightwillthatbe,toseetheRedeemershiningintheperfectionof beauty. What a blessed privilege, to dwell forever in thepresence of the great King, to surround the radiant throne ofheaven, and amid the splendors of the celestial Paradise, tosoundthroughendlessagesthenotesofseraphicpraise,tohimthat redeemed us from eternal misery with his own mostpreciousblood!

Gentle reader, seekChristnow;believeonhim;viewhimwiththe eye of faith, as your only Lord and Savior, and in a littlewhile faithshallbeturned intosight, intoheavenlyvision,andyou will enjoy the presence and society of your belovedRedeemer throughout a glorious eternity. Remember, youngreader,thatChristhassaid"thosethatseekmeearlyshallfindme."May theLord inhismercygrant thatyouandImay findHimofwhomMosesandtheprophetswrote–Jesus,theSonof

God.Thiswillproveoureverlastingcomfort.Throughtimeandthrougheternity,Christwillbeourunchangingfriend.

Tothebeliever,Christisallinall.Amidallthevacillatingscenesand heart-rending sorrows of mortality, he is ever with him,manifestinghisgraceand sustaininghim inevery trial; and inthelasthourofmortalexistence,whenthebeliever isstandingon the verge of the grave, Christ is by him, cheering hisdepartingsoulwiththehopeofeternalglory",andguidinghimsafelythroughtheswellingsofJordantothepromisedland,theeverlastinghappyhomeofGod'schildren.Inthehourofdeath,the believer is enabled to exclaim, "Oh! I would not give upChrist for all theworld.Whomhave I in heaven but you? andthereisnoneuponearththatIdesirebesidesyou."

Now,isChristprecioustoyou?Doyoudesiretoknowmoreandmoreabouthim?Isheformedinyou,thehopeofglory?Ifso,wetrustyouwillfollowuswithajoyfulheartinourpresentationofhis characterandexcellenceas theyarevividlyportrayed intheHolyScriptures.ThatblessedRedeemerwhooncehungasableedingvictimonCalvary;whoenduredthedeathofthecrossthere,istheeternalSonofGod,equalwiththeFatherinpowerandglory,possessingalltheattributesofDeity.

TheScripturesplainly assert thatChrist isGod, theCreatoroftheuniverse."InthebeginningwastheWord,andtheWordwaswithGod,andtheWordwasGod.Allthingsweremadebyhim;andwithouthimwasnotanythingmadethatwasmade."Christbears thevery imageof theeverlastingFather.Yes, theeternalSonofGod,ourblessedSavior,isthebrightnessofhisFather'sglory, and the express image of his person. "The Son is theradiance of God's glory and the exact representation of hisbeing,sustainingall thingsbyhispowerfulword.Afterhehadprovidedpurificationforsins,hesatdownattherighthandoftheMajestyinheaven."

Again, it is declared that "Christ is the visible image of the

invisibleGod.HeexistedbeforeGodmadeanythingatallandissupremeoverallcreation.ChrististheonethroughwhomGodcreatedeverythinginheavenandearth.Hemadethethingswecan see and the things we can't see—kings, kingdoms, rulers,and authorities.Everythinghas been created throughhimandforhim.Heexistedbeforeeverythingelsebegan,andheholdsallcreation together.Christ is theheadof thechurch,which ishisbody.Heisthefirstofallwhowillrisefromthedead,soheis first ineverything.ForGod inallhis fullnesswaspleasedtoliveinChrist."

Whata fullnessofgraceandglorydwells in theblessedJesus!And what divine power has he displayed in the works ofcreation!Byhisword,wereallthingsmade.Hespokeanditwasdone; he commanded, and it stood fast. He only gave thecommand, and thisworld,with all its inhabitants, sprung intobeing. Such is his illimitable power, that he has created andsustainedforages,millionsoffixedandmovingworldsof lightand glory. With unerring precision, he guides the planets intheirrevolutions,anddirectsthecometsintheirflamingmarch.With an armof omnipotence, he has bespangled themidnightsky with its glowing luminaries; and that same mysteriouspersonagewhoendured the ignominiousdeathofCalvary,hascreated this beautiful, green earth on which we tread; formedthemooninhersilverybrightness,andkindledupthesuninallhisglory."BythewordoftheLord,weretheheavensmade;andall the host of them by the breath of his mouth." He has"measuredthewatersinthehollowofhishand,andmetedoutheavenwitha span, anddetermined thedustof theearth inameasure,andweighedthemountainsinscales,andthehillsinabalance."

Christ is the second person in the glorious Trinity, and is ofequal power with God the Father, and God the Spirit. Yes he"thoughtitnotrobberytobeequalwithGod,"andastheCreatorof theuniverse, he reigns, theomnipotentLordof heaven andearth. All power is entrusted to him, and all worlds are the

offspring of his almighty fiat, the product of his creative skill.ThisisthesameblessedSaviorwhobledanddiedonearth."Healonehasspreadouttheheavensandmarchesonthewavesofthe sea. Hemade all the stars—the Bear, Orion, the Pleiades,andtheconstellationsof thesouthernsky.Hisgreatworksaretoo marvelous to understand. He performs miracles withoutnumber."

Christian, go out and gaze upon the clear, blue sky, when thesolemn stillness of night pervades a slumbering world; surveythe countless glories of the starry firmament; view thenumberlesssunsthatshineaboveyou;thinkoftheinnumerableplanetsthatrevolvearoundthesesuns;contemplatethemightysystemsofworlds thatmove in celestial harmony andmajestythroughboundlessspace.YourSaviormadethemall.

Thenthinkofhispower,wisdom,andgoodnessasmanifestedinall hisworks. Think of his original glory and blessedness; butaboveall, thinkofhisamazingcondescensionand infinite loveforyou.Hewhohungoutthesebrilliantorbs,oncestoopedfromhiscelestialthroneofglorytoassumehumannature,andbleedand die for you! yes, to die the death of the cross! "He madehimself nothing; he took the humble position of a slave andappeared in human form. And in human form he obedientlyhumbledhimselfeven furtherbydyinga criminal'sdeathonacross."Wonderfulcondescension.Amazinglove!Wasthereeverlove like this, that ledChrist toCalvary, there to lay downhispreciouslifeforsinners!No!theannalsoftimedonotfurnishaparallel;neitherisittobefoundintherecordsofeternity!

Christ, the only begotten Son of God, lay in the bosom of theFatherfromalleternity;possessinguntoldglorywithhim.Butoutof infinitecompassionandboundless love forhis children,his redeemed, he consented, for a time, to veil that glory inhumanity, and bleed upon the accursed tree. He becamepartakeroffleshandblood."BecauseGod'schildrenarehumanbeings—madeof fleshandblood—Jesus alsobecame fleshand

bloodbybeingborninhumanform.Foronlyasahumanbeingcouldhedie,andonlybydyingcouldhebreakthepoweroftheDevil,whohadthepowerofdeath."

Hegavehisblessedbodytobebroken,andhispreciousbloodtobeshedforsinners.Foryou,dearbeliever,didtheLordofglorysuffer. That hemight redeem you from the curse of a brokenlaw,and thus rescueyou frometernalmisery in the regionsofdarkness and despair, he assumed your nature. "We all knowthatJesuscametohelpthedescendantsofAbraham,nottohelptheangels.Therefore, itwasnecessary forJesus tobe ineveryrespectlikeus,hisbrothersandsisters,sothathecouldbeourmercifulandfaithfulHighPriestbeforeGod.Hethencouldofferasacrificethatwouldtakeawaythesinsofthepeople."

InChrist,thedivineandhumannaturesareadmirablyunitedinonegloriousperson.He is trulyGodand trulyman.He is ourCreator, ourPreserver, our bountifulBenefactor; andyethe isboneofourboneandfleshofourflesh.Heisournearkinsman;our elder brother; our gracious friend, who loves at all times;ourgloriousRedeemer.

Inournature,Christsufferedanddiedforus;inournatureherosetriumphantfromthegrave;andhenowwearsitbeforethethroneofGod.OhowhighlyhasChristexaltedhumannature!He has elevated it to the right hand of God, to the greatesthonors and the brightest state of felicity in the heaven ofheavens.Inglory,theredeemedshallbemadelikeChrist;theirbodies shall shine like his glorious body. Says anApostle, "weknow that when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for weshall see him as he is." At his glorious appearing on theresurrectionmorning,Christ shall call forth our sleeping dust."Hewilltaketheseweakmortalbodiesofoursandchangethemintogloriousbodieslikehisown,usingthesamemightypowerthathewillusetoconquereverything,everywhere."

Then shall we be with him, and be entirely like him to all

eternity. Then shall we see him face to face in his heavenlykingdom, yes, we shall look into the very face of the blessedJesus, and behold in that countenance the expressions oftenderest love for us, his redeemed. Then shall we seewhat alovely Savior we have! And through eternal ages we shall becontemplatingthegloriouspersonofourRedeemer.ThenshallwediscernthoseexcellenciesinthepersonofChrist,whicharenow obscured by the veil of mortality. "Now we see thingsimperfectlyasinapoormirror,butthenwewillseeeverythingwith perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial andincomplete,butthenIwillknoweverythingcompletely, justasGodknowsmenow."

PreciousSavior!Yournameisasointmentpouredforth.Youarealloursalvationanddesire.Weloveyou,becauseyouhavefirstlovedus.Whomhavewe inheavenbutyou,and there isnoneuponearth thatwedesirebesides you.Youareourway to theFather, the way in which the redeemed journey through awildernessworld to the heavenly Canaan. You are the blessedday-star which illuminates our path through a bewilderingworld,andguidesitsafelyoverlife'stempestuousoceanintotheharborofeternalglory.BlessedRedeemer,mayIloveandprizeyoumore andmore on earth, until, prepared for those happymansionsabove,Ibidadieutothissinful,sorrowfulworld,enterintothejoyofmyLord,andraiseanever-endingsongofpraiseinglorytoyoumyAlmightySavior.

"AlmightyJesus,makemethine;Oh!washmeinyourblooddivine,Preservemysoulfromeverysin,AndreignthesovereignLordwithin.Oh!foraheartoffaithandlove,TotastetheSavior'srichestgrace,Toemulatethechoirsabove,Whoeverseehisblissfulface.Blestspirit!beautifymysoulWithhumblejoyandholyfear;

Yourpowercanmakethewoundedwhole,Andbringeachgospelblessingnear.Descendanddwellwithinmyheart;TheSavior'simageletusbear;Thenbidmehencewithjoydepart,Andangels'blissforevershare."

WhatapreciousSaviorwehavetochooseasours.Onewhoissoamiableandexcellentinhisperson.Onewhoisinfinitelyabletosaveus.Onewhodelightsinoursalvation;andrejoicesoverusto do us good. Concerning his people, Christ says, "And Iwillmakeaneverlastingcovenantwiththem,promisingnottostopdoinggoodforthem.Iwillputadesireintheirheartstoworshipme,andtheywillneverleaveme.Iwillrejoiceindoinggoodtothemandwillfaithfullyandwholeheartedlyreplanttheminthisland."

WhatmerciesflowfromtheSaviorofsinners!WhenwelookatwhatourRedeemerhasaccomplishedforus,wellmaywe,withwonder and astonishment, exclaim, "Oh how great is yourgoodness,whichyouhavelaidupforthosewhofearyou;whichyouhavewroughtforthosewhotrustinyou;beforethesonsofmen."Howdeeplyimpressedwiththedivinegoodnesswastheprophet, when, borne along and overwhelmed with thesublimityofhisrapturoustheme,hebreaksforthintothisloftysong:"Sing,OdaughterofZion;shoutaloud,OIsrael!Begladandrejoicewithallyourheart,OdaughterofJerusalem!FortheLord yourGod has arrived to live among you.He is amightysavior. He will rejoice over you with great gladness. With hislove,hewillcalmallyourfears.Hewillexultoveryoubysingingahappysong."

ThereisnonelikeChrist.Hespokeasnevermanspoke.Whenhesojournedinthisvalleyof tears,hewentaboutdoinggood;words of compassion flowed from his gracious lips; hecomforted the afflicted, healed the diseased, and raised thedead. At his omnipotent voice, "the eyes of the blind were

opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; the lame manleapedasadeer,andthetongueofthemutesung."

How compassionate was the blessed Jesus, to the sons anddaughtersofaffliction,totheperishingmultitudesaroundhim,whenhetrodthisearth,clothedwiththegarbofhumanity.Andnowthatheisinheaven,investedwithallhisoriginalglory,hehas the sameeyeofpity, and the sameheart of love for dyingsinnersonearth.Thoughhereignsinglory,yethenowsays,"Tothismanwill I look,even tohimthat ispoorandofacontritespirit,andtremblesatmyword."

Onecompassionate lookfromChrist,whichdrawsoutthesoulin love afterhim, andkindlesup the affections inholydesiresafter sweet communion with him, is worth more than all thetreasures of the world. A saving interest in the gloriousRedeemer, will put us into the possession and enjoyment ofthose "unsearchable riches" which will endure when thisbewilderingworld,withallitsfascinations,withallitsgrandeur,shallhavepassedaway.

Doesyourheartpantafterthesedurableriches?ThenlookuptoChrist, admire him! contemplate his adorable, mysteriousperson. Open the blessed volume of inspiration and read hisgloriouscharacter."Searchthescriptures,"saystheSavior,"forinthemyouthinkyouhaveeternallife,andtheyaretheywhichtestify of me." Trace him in his wonderful transition fromheaven to earth. He veils his glory in humanity. He assumeshumannature,andbecomesaninfantofdays,amanofsorrowthrough life; a bleeding victim onCalvary. For you, sinner, heyieldstothestrokeofdeath;andislaidinatomb.Butseehimbursting the fettersof thegrave,andascendingtoglory!Therefollowhim.Onthewingsof faithsoartotheheavenlyCanaan!YourDivineRedeemeristhere,radiantinglory.Beforehim,allthe redeemed bow in token of humble adoration and praise.While they gaze upon his wondrous bright form, one song,"worthy is the Lamb that was slain, "employs them all. In

heaven,allareadmiringandpraisingthe"LambthatstandsonMountZion."

There, every redeemed sinner desires to knowmore andmoreabouttheadorableSavior.Obeliever,themoreyoustudyChristthe more will you admire and praise him. Wonderful in hisnature, glorious in his person, and dear in those relations inwhich he stands to you, he demands your whole heart, youraffections, all your grateful thoughts.While you walk by faiththroughawildernessworld, you should constantly keepChristin your view- in your thoughts- in yourmind; until in the fullblaze of heaven's glory, you behold him, in the midst of thecelestial throne,as"aLambthathadbeenslain,"andeternallyadmirehismatchlessperson,andhisboundlessgrace.

O blessed Jesus! may the desire of our soul now be to yourname,and to theremembranceofyou.Maywerememberyouupon beds, and meditate on you in the night-watches. Andthroughallourearthlypilgrimagemayweeverthinkofyou,andofyourgreatgoodness.

Christian,letyourloveforanunseenSaviorincreasemoreandmore. "You love him even though you have never seen him.Thoughyoudonot seehim, you trust him; and evennow youare happy with a glorious, inexpressible joy." "Unto youthereforewho believe, he is precious." In themean time,mayyour eye- that eye of faithwhich views the eternal world, andthoseglorious "thingswhich arenot seen," ever bedirected tothebleedingLambofGod,whotakesawayyoursins;whotakesawaythesinoftheworld!Bealwayslongingand"lookforwardto that wonderful event when the glory of our great God andSavior,JesusChrist,willberevealed.Hegavehislifetofreeusfrom every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and tomakeus his veryownpeople,totallycommittedtodoingwhatisright."

HowsweettheNameofJesussoundsInabeliever'sear!

Itsootheshissorrows,healshiswounds,Anddrivesawayhisfear.

Itmakesthewoundedspiritwhole,Andcalmsthetroubledbreast;'Tismannatothehungrysoul,Andtotheweary,rest.

DearName,theRockonwhichIbuild,MyShieldandHidingPlace,Myneverfailingtreasury,filledWithboundlessstoresofgrace!

ByYoumyprayersacceptancegain,Althoughwithsindefiled;Satanaccusesmeinvain,AndIamownedachild.

Jesus!myShepherd,Husband,Friend,OProphet,PriestandKing,MyLord,myLife,myWay,myEnd,AcceptthepraiseIbring.

Weakistheeffortofmyheart,Andcoldmywarmestthought;ButwhenIseeYouasYouart,I'llpraiseYouasIought.

TillthenIwouldYourloveproclaimWitheveryfleetingbreath,AndmaythemusicofYourNameRefreshmysoulindeath!(JohnNewton)

THEGLORYOFCHRIST

"Father, Iwant thesewhomyou'vegivenme tobewithme,sotheycanseemyglory.Yougavemetheglorybecauseyoulovedmeevenbeforetheworldbegan!"John17:24

In order that we may see the personal excellency of God'sbeloved Son, let us contemplate his glory. That amazinghumiliation and painful death to which Christ submitted, forsinners,willappearstillmoreastonishing,whenwereflectuponthatmajestyandglorywithwhichhewas investedbefore timebegantoflow.InChrist,webeholduncreatedglory.Nocreatedglory was ever like his. Christ's glory shone from all eternity.Before the sunbeamed in theheavens,or themoonwalked insilverybrightness;beforethestarsglitteredinthedeepbluesky,or the earth sprang into existence; Christ, the blessed Son ofGod,layinthebosomoftheeverlastingFather,enjoyingequalglorywithhim.

The glorious Redeemer of a lost world was set up fromeverlasting. Hear his own declaration, "I was set up fromeverlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was," andsurelythegloryoftheeternalSonmustbeasoldashimself.Yes,Christ has always been, and will ever continue to be "thebrightness of his Father's glory, and the express image of hisperson."WhenheleftthebosomofhisFather,andtheregionsof bliss, and visited this fallen world with the message ofredeeming love, he only veiled his glory in humanity. He lostnothingofhisoriginalglorybyhisassumptionofhumannature.Hewasastruly"thebrightnessofhisFather'sglory"whenhelayinthemangeratBethlehem,whenhehadnotwhereto layhisheadonearth,orwhenhungadyingvictimonCalvary'scross,ashewasbeforetheIncarnation,orashenowis,inhisglorifiedstateattherighthandofGod.

Though his glory was veiled in a human form, when hetabernacled in the flesh, now and then a beam of that glorydartedthroughhishumannature,proclaimingtoallaroundthathewasdivine.ThedisciplesbeheldthegloryoftheirRedeemer.

Says thebelovedJohn, "TheWordbecame fleshandmadehisdwellingamongus.Wehaveseenhisglory,thegloryoftheOneandOnly,whocamefromtheFather,fullofgraceandtruth."

SaysanotherfaithfulfolloweroftheLord,andaneye-witnessofhis majesty, "And he received honor and glory from God theFather when God's glorious, majestic voice called down fromheaven, 'This ismybelovedSon; I am fully pleasedwithhim.'Weourselvesheardthevoicewhenweweretherewithhimonthe holymountain." Onmount Tabor, Peter, James and Johngotaglimpseof theSavior's glory,whichmade them feel as ifheavenhadcomedownuponearth.ThereChrist'sglorybeamedforthinheavenlysplendor,"whenhisfaceshoneastheSun,andhisclothingwaswhiteasthelight."ThereMosesandElijahalsoappeared in glory, and spoke of his decease which he shouldaccomplishatJerusalem.

Whataglorious,sacredspot!Hownearlyalliedtoheaven!Whatis all the splendor of the universe, contrasted with theresplendentsceneofTabor!Howgloomy!Contrastedwiththatdazzling, overpowering brightnesswhich there emanated fromthe blessed Jesus, the sun is darkness itself. Never had therebeensuchavividmanifestationof thegloryofChristonearth,aswasthendisplayedtoastonisheddisciples.WellmightPeterexclaim, "Lord, this iswonderful! If youwantme to, I'llmakethree shrines, one for you, one forMoses, andone forElijah."Delightfulabode!TodwellwithJesus!tobeovershadowedwithhisglory!

"Ifheavenbethusglorious,Lord,WhymustIkeepfromthence?WhatfollyisitthatmakesmelothTodie,andgofromhence?"

Hastenon,Ojoyfulday,whenIshallbeadmittedintothepalaceofthegreatKing,whenIshallseehiminhisbeauty,inhisglory;whenIshallbemade"apillar inthetempleofGod,andgono

moreout;"whenIshalldwellwithChrist,yes,withthatgloriousSavior, whose blessed side was once pierced for me. Happy,unspeakably happy, will those be whom Christ will bring tobeholdhisglory!Theirblissnomortaltonguecanexpress.TheywillreignwithJesus,andbeholdhisgloryforeverandever."Tohimwhoovercomes, Iwill give the right to sitwithmeonmythrone,justasIovercameandsatdownwithmyFatheronhisthrone."

ItisthewillofChrist,thatallhispeoplebewithhim,thattheymaybeholdhis glory.Mark thatbeautifulprayerofhis, in the17thchapterofJohn:"Father, Iwant thesewhomyou'vegivenme to bewithme, so they can seemy glory. You gaveme theglorybecauseyoulovedmeevenbeforetheworldbegan!"

ForwhatisitthatChristprayssoferventlyhere?Itis,thatthosegivenhimbyhisFather,maynotonlyhewithhim,butthattheymay also behold his glory. That prayer has not ascended toheaven in vain. It has been heard on high. In heaven, all theredeemed around the throne of God, are now beholding theglory of Christ. All the spirits of just men made perfect, areadmiring his beauty. This prayerwill be fully answered, whenChrist shall bring forth the head-stone of his living, glorioustemplewithshoutings;whenheshallexclaim,"BeholdIandthechildrenwhichGodhasgivenme."Wheneverymemberofhispreciousflockshallbegatheredhometohimself;wheneventhefeeblestlambshallbehousedfromthestorm.ThenshallweallbewithChrist; then shallwe beholdhis glory; not veiled as itwasinhishumiliation,blazingforthinfull,uncloudedsplendor.

ThegloryofChristwillmakeeternityitselfonebright,unsullieddayofbliss.Thiswillbemanifestedto theredeemed; theywillspendtherevolvingagesofablissfulsterilityinbeholdingit.Itwillirradiatethemansionsofbliss;itwilladornwithimmortalsplendorandbeautyeveryinhabitantofthosemansions.Itwilldecoratewithbloomingyouthcountlessmillions.Itwilllightupabrightandgloriousabodefortheredeemed.Itwillconstitute

thepurest,noblest,brightestheaven.Whatisheavenbutbeingwith Christ, and beholding his glory? This is heaven! This isblessedness!Thisistheblissofsaints!Oblessedprivilege,tobewithChrist,tobeholdhisglory.

Andallbelieversshallsoonbeforeverwithhim.Whatahappystate tobe everwith theLord, beholdinghis glory!ThismadePaul long to depart, that he might be with Christ. "I'm tornbetweentwodesires:SometimesIwanttolive,andsometimesIlongtogoandbewithChrist.Thatwouldbefarbetter forme"Immediatelyafterdeath, thesoulof thebeliever iswithChrist,beholdinghisglory,"absentfromthebody,andpresentwiththeLord."

Howmanyhave longed forasightof thisgloryofChrist.Howoftenhas itcheered theheartof thedyingChristian,and filledhis soul with the hope of a glorious immortality. A few hoursbeforethegreatDr.Owenbreathedhislast,friendinformedhimthathehadjustbeenputtinghiswork."OnthegloryofChrist",tothepress,towhomtheDr.responded,"Iamgladtohearthatthatperformanceisputtopress;"thenliftinguphishands,andraising his eyes as in a rapture, he exclaimed, "ButO brother,thelonglookedfordayiscomeatlast,inwhichIshallseethatglory in another manner than I have ever done yet, or wascapableofdoinginthisworld."

Agreatpartofheaven'shappiness,willconsistinbeholdingtheglory of Christ; yes, the glory of Christ will fill heaven withunutterable bliss.O blessed Jesus, show us your glory;may itilluminate our pathway through a world of darkness; may itguide us to you, the uncreated source of life, light and glory.Withyouisthefountainof life; inyourlightshallwesee light.Weanouraffectionsfromaworldthatissosoontobewrappedinflames.Elevateourviewsabovethetransientscenesofearth,itsfading,deceitfuljoys,tothepermanentandenrapturingblissof heaven.Maywe be going up through this wildernessworldleaningonyou,ourBeloved.Whileonearthmaywelivetoyour

glory; andwhendonewithmortal life,when themessenger ofdeath is sent to conveyour immortal spirits home,maywebesafely conducted through death's dark valley and Jordan'sswellingstream,totheheightsofZion,thecityofthegreatKing,theheavenlyJerusalem,thecelestialCanaan,whereyou,blessedSavior,reignineverlastingglory.

"Oh!thatIfeltmysoulupborneOnpuredevotion'swings,Faraboveearth'sdeceitfuljoysAndsublunarythings.Whereyou,blessedSavior,sitenthronedIneverlastinglight;Thegloryoftheangelichost,Thesourceoftheirdelight.ThereinyourblissfulpresencereignsImmortaljoyserene;Nowintrystormsareheardtoroar,Nordesolationseen.Aroundyouflowunmixeddelights,Likeriversdeepandwide;Whilefromtheoceanofyourlove,Proceedsanendlesstide.Cansuchasinfulcreature,Lord,Partakehiswondrousgrace,Todwellwithyouinheavenlybliss,Andviewyourgloriousface?Ah!then,letsinandearthusurpMywaywardheartnomore;Oh,bethroughlife,myallinall,Mysoul'sunboundedstore."

Have you obtained a glimpse of the glory of the Sufferer ofCalvary?IsChristgloriousinyourview,ordoesheappear"asaroot out of a dry ground, having no form, nor loveliness, nobeauty that you shoulddesire him?" Is he, in your estimation,"thechiefamongtenthousand"alllovely,allglorious;ordoyou

"lightly esteem the rock of your salvation?" Have you seenChrist, inallhisglory,notwiththebodilyeye,butwiththatoffaith, which scans the heavens and views the Savior there, asyours? Or have you no faith in God's dear Son? Are you stillrejecting the free offer of a crucified Savior; still counting hispreciousbloodanunholything?

These are solemnquestionswhich you arenow calledupon toanswer.IyouhaveneverviewedChristasyourgloriousSavior,look to him now as such. Let faith spread her wings towardshim.Believeonhisgloriousname."ButthewayofgettingrightwithGodthroughfaithsays,'Youdon'tneedtogotoheaven'(tofind Christ and bring him down to help you). Salvation thatcomesfromtrustingChrist—whichisthemessagewepreach—isalready within easy reach. In fact, the Scriptures say, 'Themessageiscloseathand;itisonyourlipsandinyourheart.'"

To see Christ in the glory of his person, in the fullness of hisgrace and as our only Savior, is the sight that affords perfectpeace–thatpeaceofGodwhichpassesallunderstanding.Thisblessedsightfillsthesoulwithjoyunspeakableandfullofglory;elevates the sinner's view above sublunary objects, to thoseblissful mansions in the skies, and cheers the believing soul,whenstandingon the thresholdof eternity,with thehopeof aglorious immortality. When we obtain a faith's view of Christand his glory, how despicable do the unhallowed joys andpleasuresofadyingworldappear?Evennowonebeamof theSavior's glory shining into our hearts, or the light of hiscountenance lifteduponus,willaffordusmore joythatall theglitteringwealth of theworld.Hear an eminent saint of oldentimesexclaim,"Youhaveputgladnessinmyheart,morethaninthetimethattheircornandtheirwineincreased."

YouwhohaveembracedthegloriousSaviorwillsoonbemadeapartaker of his glory. "The glory which you gave me, "saysChrist,"Ihavegiventhem."Owonderful!wonderful!notonlytobeholdthatglory,buttoreceiveitourselves!"TheLordwillgive

glory."Whatshallwerendertohimforallhisgifts? "Bless theLord O my soul; and all that is within me! O, bless his holyname."Everystepyoutakeonearthwillbeastepheavenward.Constantly beholding the glory of Christ in the mirror of theword and ordinances, you will become more and moretransformedintohislikeness."Andwe,whowithunveiledfacesall reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into hislikenesswithever-increasingglory,whichcomesfromtheLord,who is theSpirit." In the faceofChrist,webehold thegloryofGod, thebrightness of thedivinity, shining forth inuncreated,overpoweringluster.TheholySpiritilluminatesourhearts,andenablesustodiscernthiseffulgenceof,divineglory."God,whofirstcommandedthe light toshineoutofdarkness,hasshinedinourhearts, togive the lightof theknowledgeof thegloryofGodinthefaceofJesusChrist."

Christ is crowned with all the radiance of the Deity. "In himdwellsallthefullnessofthegodheadbodily.""Inhimarehiddenall the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." "The word wasmadeflesh,"andthegloryofGodshallshinethroughthatfleshthrough all eternity, and make that blessed form far moreglorious than the midday sun. How glorious and exalted isChrist! Encircled with inconceivable glory and seated on thethrone of heaven, he sways with uncontrollable power, thescepterof theuniverse.There isaglory inthepersonofChristthat makes him unspeakably precious to believers. There is agloryinhisperfections.Thereisagloryinhisworks."Allyourworksshallpraiseyou,OLord;andyoursaintsshallblessyou."

Yes, Christ is not only glorious in his person, but also in hisworks.Intheworksofcreationheisencircledwithdivineglory."TheheavensdeclarethegloryofGod;andthefirmamentshowshishandywork;"andinthatgreaterwork-theredemptionofalost world- he is crowned with incomprehensible glory, andexaltedtotherighthandofGod."WhatwedoseeisJesus,whofor a little while wasmade lower than the angels, and now iscrownedwithgloryandhonorbecausehesuffereddeathforus."

Dearbeliever,thisgloriousSaviorisyours.Foryouhedied;foryoubelives;foryouhereignstheLordofglory.Withthechurchyoumayexclaim,"This ismybeloved,andthis ismyfriend,Odaughters of Jerusalem" "how great is his goodness, and howgreatishisbeauty!"

How attractive, how desirable, how lovely, how glorious willChristappear inheaven!Howwillhisgloryshine there!Whenweawakeamidthesplendorsofimmortality,thefirstobjectthatwill exciteouradmirationwillbe thatgloriousRedeemer,wholovedus,andgavehimselfforus;whosedyinggroanswereonceuttered on Calvary; whose bleeding heart there showed thebreadth, and length, anddepth, andheight of redeeming love!Then shall we see with our very eyes, Him who was, for us,taken,andbywickedhandscrucifiedandslain!But,oh!weshallseehimshiningineffulgentglory!

The glory of theManofCalvarywill attract the eyes of all theredeemed above, and he will be forever "admired in all thosewho believe." The perpetual presence of Christ and thecontinuedmanifestation of his glory will always make heavenone noontide of light and blessedness. He will be continuallybeforeus,andhisglorywillbeconstantlybeaminguponits;andoursightwillbesoilluminatedthatwecansteadilybeholdthatglory.Nowweseethroughaglassdarkly;butthenfacetoface.

Now,wecouldnotpossiblybearthefulleffulgenceofthatglory.ItstruckPaultotheearthwithblindnesswhenJesusappearedtohim,andwhenhesaw"alightfromheavenbrighterthanthesunshinedownonme."AndonthemanifestationofaglorifiedSavior, John falls to the earthasdead.But inheavenwe shallgazewithintensedelightupontheglorioussunofrighteousness,shininginhismeridiansplendor.BlessedbeGod!Thatsunoncerose on our benightedworld! That promise has been fulfilled,"Upon you that fear my name, shall the sun of righteousnessarisewithhealinginhiswings."

That"truelight,whichenlightenseverymanthatcomesintotheworld"pointingus toheaven, the regionof eternal glory, onceshoneonearth.Thatlightwilleternallyshineintheupperworldin the celestial mansions. There Christ will always manifesthimselftohispeople,inallhisglory.TheretheywillnothavetocrywithMoses, "Ibeseechyou, showmeyourglory."All shallsee it. Every saint there shall be gazing forever upon theuncreated glory of Immanuel. O blessed sight! Lord, prepareeachofus forbeholding thisglory.Uniteourhearts toyou,byfaith.Maywebegrowingingraceandintheknowledge,ofyou-ourLordandSavior.Oh,AlmightySavior,preserveusfromthesnares and temptations of a world lying in wickedness, andfinallypresentusfaultlessbeforethepresenceofyourglorywithexceedingjoy.

Inhissublimevisionof thegloryofChrist, Isaiahspeaks thus,"IntheyearKingUzziahdied,IsawtheLord.Hewassittingona lofty throne, and the train of his robe filled the Temple.Hovering around him were mighty seraphim, each with sixwings.With twowings they covered their faces,with two theycovered their feet, andwith the remaining two they flew. In agreat chorus they sang, 'Holy,holy,holy is theLordAlmighty!The whole earth is filled with his glory!' The glorious singingshook the Temple to its foundations, and the entire sanctuarywasfilledwithsmoke."

ThatthiswasthegloryofChrist,whichIsaiahsaw,John,inthe12th chapter of his gospel, asserts, "These things said Isaiah,whenhesawhisglory,andspokeofhim."OnthelonelyisleofPatmos,thebeloveddisciplehadagloriousrevelationoftheSonofGod.Heavenopenedandpoured forth itsgloriesuponhim.He was fanned with its breezes. He stood bewildered andamazedamid itsgrandpageantry.Butone formmoregloriousthan all other objects, filled him with profound awe andconsternation. It was the Lord Jesus. His countenance shonelike the sun inhismidday splendor.Glorybeamed from everypartofthatblessedform,diffusingafloodoflightonallaround,

andblazingfar,farawayintoeternity.Itwasthedazzlingformof the Lamb ofGod, inmore than earthly transfiguration thatappeared to the bewildered disciple. The descriptionwhich hefurnishesof thisglorifiedpersonage is this, "When I turned toseewhowasspeakingtome,Isawsevengoldlampstands.Andstanding in themiddleof the lampstandswas theSonofMan.Hewaswearing a long robewith a gold sash across his chest.His head andhis hairwerewhite likewool, aswhite as snow.And his eyes were bright like flames of fire. His feet were asbright asbronze refined in a furnace, andhis voice thunderedlikemightyoceanwaves.Heheldsevenstarsinhisrighthand,and a sharp two-edged sword came from his mouth. And hisface was as bright as the sun in all its brilliance.When I sawhim,Ifellathisfeetasdead."

This isJesusofNazareth, thesameJesusonwhosebosomthebeloved disciple had so often leaned. How glorious does heappearnow!Soglorious,thatJohnfallsathisfeetasdead.ThisisthesameJesuswhomthedyingStephensawstandingontheright hand of God.When his cruel persecutors were about toimbruetheirhandsinthebloodofthisholyservantofGod,hebeingfullof theHolySpirit, lookedupsteadfastly intoheaven,andsawthegloryofGod,andJesusstandingontherighthandofGod.

This,Christian,isthesameJesuswhosegloryyoushallbeholdin heaven; whom you will love and praise and adore withunceasingdelightandseraphicvigor, through eternity's rollingages.Loveandadmirehimnow.Cleavecloselytohim,andyouwill soon see his glory. Youwill soon bewithChrist!O happythought!

Soon, very soon, shall the visions of earth vanish, and thedarkness of mortality disappear before the rising glories ofImmanuel's kingdom. The time is short; the period is just athand,whenweshall,withtransportingjoy,beholdthedawningofthatdaywhichwillneverend,andtherisingofthatsunwhich

willneverset.Then"YoureyesshallseetheKinginhisbeauty!theyshallbehold the land that isvery faroff."Raised inglory,andcaughtupfromtheflamesofaburning,crumblingworld,tomeettheLordintheair,"whenheshallcometobeglorifiedinhissaints,andtobeadmiredinallthosewhobelieve;weshall,withhim,soartoabrighterworldabove–Oureverlastinghappyhome,wherenosineverdefiles,whereno tearsever flow,andwherenodeathiseverfeared.

Enteringintothegoldencityanditsmanymansions,weshallsitdownwithAbraham, Isaac and Jacob;withMoses andElijah;with prophets and apostles, in the kingdom of God. Standing,notonMountTaborbelow,butonMountZionabove;notwithMoses and Elijah, alone, but with "the general assembly andchurch of the firstborn, who are written in heaven;" we shalleverbehold,contemplateandadmirethegloryofhimwhoisthelight of heaven, and the brightness of God's glory. Howgloriouslywill thatcelestialcity, thehomeoftheredeemed,beilluminatedwiththepresenceofImmanuel!

There,nonaturallightisrequired."Andthecityhasnoneedofsunormoon, for thegloryofGod illuminates thecity,andtheLamb is its light." There, all will be irradiated by the glory ofGodandtheLamb."Nolongerwillyouneedthesunormoontogive you light, for the Lord your God will be your everlastinglight,andhewillbeyourglory."There,fromareflectionofthatglory, the righteous themselves shall shine forth as the sun inthekingdomoftheirFather.EternalglorybeamsinImmanuel'sland.EverlastinglightemanatesfromHisblessedface."Thesunwillneverset;themoonwillnotgodown.FortheLordwillbeyour everlasting light. Your days ofmourningwill come to anend." "And therewill benonight there—noneed for lamps orsun—for theLordGodwill shineon them.And theywill reignforeverandever."

To this blessedness, to this glory, to this honor, to thisimmortality,"theSpiritandthebridesay,"Come."Leteachone

whohearsthemsay,"Come."Letthethirstyonescome—anyonewhowantsto.Letthemcomeanddrinkthewateroflifewithoutcharge."O,myfriends!bewiseintime;chooseagloriousChristnow,andyoushallshineasthestarsforeverandever!

Now,"BlessedbetheLordGod,theGodofIsrael,whoonlydoeswondrousthings.Andblessedbehisgloriousnameforever; letthewholeearthbefilledwithhisglory!Amenandamen.

"Hewhoonearthasmanwasknown,Andboreoursinsandpains.Now,seatedontheeternalthrone,TheGodofgloryreigns.HishandsthewheelsofnatureguideWithanunerringskill;Andcountlessworldsextendedwide,Obeyhissovereignwill.Whileharpsunnumberedsoundhispraise,Inyonderworldabove;Hissaintsonearthadmirehisways,Andgloryinhislove.Hisrighteousnesstofaithrevealed,Wroughtoutforguiltyworms;Affordsahidingplaceandshield,Fromenemiesandstorms.Thisland,throughwhichhispilgrimsgo,Isdesolateanddry;ButstreamsofgracefromhimoverflowTheirthirsttosatisfy.Whentroubles,likeaburningsun,Beatheavyontheirhead,TothisalmightyRocktheyrun,Andfindapleasingshade.Howglorioushe!howhappytheyInsuchagloriousFriend!Whoselovesecuresthemalltheway,Andcrownsthemattheend."

CHRISTCRUCIFIED

"For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you exceptJesusChristandhimcrucified."1Cor.2:2

"ButwepreachChristcrucified."1Cor.1:23

"WhenonthecrossmyLordIsee,Bleedingtodeathforwretchedme,Satanandsinnomorecanmove,ForIamalltransformedtolove."Histhornsandnailspiercethroughmyheart,IneverygroanIbearapart;Iviewhiswoundswithstreamingeyes,Butsee!hebowshisheadanddies!"Come,sinners,viewtheLambofGod,Woundedanddead,andbathedinblood.Beholdhisside,andventurenear,Thewellofendlesslifeishere."HereIforgetmycaresandpains;Idrink,yetstillmythirstremains;Onlythefountainheadabove,Cansatisfythethirstoflove."Oh,thatIthuscouldalwaysfeel!Lord,moreandmoreyourlovereveal;Thenmygladtongueshallloudproclaim,Thegraceandgloryofyourname"Yournamedispelsmyguiltandfear,Revivesmyheart,andcharmsmyearAffordsabalmforeverywound,AndSatantremblesatthesound."

The death of Christ was the most affecting and solemn sceneeverpresentedtotheviewofmenorangels.Whatasight!tosee

Christonthecrossbleedingforsinners!Howastonishing!toseetheKing of glory,whom all the angels of heavenworship andadore,bowhisheadindeath!Earthneverbeforewitnessedsucha sight!Heavennever before looked upon such a scene.Omysoul,drawnearandcontemplate it.LooktowardsCalvarywiththecrosserectedinyourview,andbeholdtheSonofGodnailedto the accursed tree, his blessed hands, and side and feetpierced,hisbloodstreamingfromeverypore,untilpalliddeathsits upon his heavenly brow, and he cries, "Father, into yourhandsIcommendmyspirit."

Thisisthescene,thesolemnscene,uponwhichweareabouttodwell.WehavebeencontemplatingthegloryofChrist;wecomenowtonoticehiswonderfuldeath.Wehaveseenhimarrayedinthe robes of eternal glory; nowwe see him laying aside thesebright robes, humbling himself and becoming obedient untodeath,eventhedeathofthecross.Amazingcondescension!thatthegloriousSonofGodshouldforsaketherealmsofeverlastingday,leavethethroneofglory,andtakeuphisabodeinthisdarkregion of sin and suffering! Boundless love! that He shouldexpireonthecrossforaguiltyworld!

"Oh!lovewithoutcompare,Oh!lovebeyonddegree;Thathe,whomcherubimadore,Shouldbleedanddieforme!"

Christbecamemanthathemightdieforman,thathispreciousbloodmightflowfortheredemptionofalostworld.ThelandofJudeawasthebirthplaceoftheSavioroftheworld.Itwasofficethe glory of all lands. Jerusalemwas its renownedmetropolis.Here, God wasmanifested in the flesh. Here, the Son of Godwalkedwithman,cladasaman, in thegabofhumanity.Hownear was heaven to earth when Jesus dwelt among men,promulgatingtheblessedgospelof thegraceofGodtoasinfuldying world! What joyful tidings were conveyed to theshepherdsofBethlehem,when"theangelreassuredthem.'Don't

beafraid!Ibringyougoodnewsofgreat joyforeveryone!TheSavior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born tonight inBethlehem, the city of David!'" Well might the bright host ofheavenburstintothatsublimebirth-songofImmanuel!"Gloryto God in the highest, and on earth peace, good-will towardman."

Christcametoreconcilearebelearthtotheoffendedmajestyofheaven;tosuffer,thejustfortheunjust;togivehislifearansomformany;todieonCalvary.Andwhenthateventfulhour,fixeduponinthecounselsofeternity,inwhichtheSonofGodshouldpourouthissouluntodeath,hadarrived,howimpressive,howsolemn was the scene that transpired on Calvary's sacredmount! How great were the sufferings of God's beloved Son!How painful the death he endured! A series of unparalleledsufferings which he bore in his own person, immediatelypreceded the crucifixion of our Savior. In the garden ofGethsemane, in the judgment-hall on the way to Calvary, andafterhis arrival there,his sufferingswere intensely severe.Wedesigntonoticethese.

Thewhole life ofChristwas a life of sorrowand suffering.Hewasalways"amanofsorrows,andacquaintedwithgrief."Fromthe manger to the cross he trod a thorny pathway. For you,sinner, he lived a suffering life, and for you he died a painfuldeath. Should not the love, the dying love of Christ, constrainyou to lovehimwho first lovedyou, andgavehimself for you,yes, his own glorious self. Surely it should. Surely your wholeheartshouldbeaflameofburninglovetoyouradorableSavior,"Whomhavingnotseen,youlove."

Christstoodintheroomandsteadofdyingsinners.Hewasourrepresentative,andassuchheenduredthepenaltyofabrokenlaw. He bore our griefs, and carried our sorrows. All ouriniquitieswerelaidonhim.Nowonderthen,thathisholysoulwas almost overwhelmed when all the waves and billows ofdivinewrathwere about to gather and break over his devoted

head! No wonder that he should cry, "O my Father, if it bepossible,letthiscuppassfromme."WhatintensesufferingstheblessedJesusendured,whenhewasabouttomakehissoulanoffering forsin!whenheboreoursins inhisownbodyonthetree!

Contemplate the scenes and circumstances of the Savior'ssuffering and death. Call up in your mind those memorablenames consecrated by the passion and death of Christ–Jerusalem- Gethsemane- Calvary. The remembrance ofJERUSALEM awakens some of themost thrilling associationsthateverclusteredaroundthememory.Here,someofthemostmomentous events in the annals of time, or in the records ofeternity transpired.Here,wasdisplayed themostamazingandgloriousscene thatwaseverexhibitedon this terrestrial globe.Here, on Mount Calvary, the Son of God, the Creator of theUniverse, once hung in agonies and death; and here, heaccomplishedthatwonderful,thatgreatandsublimeschemeofman's redemption, which is the wonder of angels, which willformthedelightfulthemeoftheredeemedinglory,throughthecountlessagesofeternity.Whatasacredspotformeditation!

ButturntoGETHSEMANE.ThisisanamedeeplyengravedontheheartofeveryChristian.HereChristsufferedasneveramansuffered;sufferedforyou,sinners.Here,heenduredthatbitteragony for you,when; "his sweatwas as itwere, great drops ofbloodfallingdowntotheground."

NowletusviewthatmysteriousMount,justoutsidethegatesofJerusalem,onwhichtheManofsorrowsdied.CALVARY!Atthemention of that name, earth thrills with new emotions of joy,and heaven bursts into long, loud anthems of praise. Intenseglorybeams fromthesummitofCalvary;but itsmoralheightsnomortaleyecanview;itstopislostinthegloriousatmosphereof the upper world. In heaven, Calvary will awaken many agloriousassociation,whenwetherelookbackandcontemplate

thewondroussceneitcommemorates.Thereitwill liveforeverin the remembrance of all the redeemed, and be the eternalsourceoftheirhighestbliss!

When Christ had spent more than thirty years on earth, thehour-theeventfulhourofhisdepartureat lengtharrived, andwithhissufferingsfullinview,hehastenstoJerusalemtoofferhimself a sacrifice for our sins. How he longs to reach hisignominious cross- to be baptized with his own blood- toaccomplishoursalvationonCalvary!BlessedbeGodforsuchaSavior,whose delightswere alwayswith the sons ofmen! Thefollowingbeautifullineson"TheRedeemerhasteningtosuffer,"arefromthepenofCowper–

TheSavior,whatanobleflameWaskindledinhisbreast,WhenhasteningtoJerusalemHemarchedbeforetherest.Good-willtomenandzealforGodHiseverythoughtengross;Helongstobebaptizedwithblood,Hepantstoreachthecross!Withallhissufferingsfullinview,Andwoestousunknown,Forthtothetaskhisspiritflew;'Twaslovethaturgedhimon.Lord,wereturnyouwhatwecan:OurheartsshallsoundabroadSalvationtothedyingMan,AndtotherisingGod!AndwhileyourbleedingglorieshereEngageourwonderingeyes,Welearnourlightercrosstobear,Andhastentotheskies."

Arrived at Jerusalem, for the last time, the Savior eats thePassover with his disciples, and institutes the sacramental

supper in that last gloomy night which preceded his painfuldeath.Inhisdyingloveheinstitutedthatordinancewhichwill,through all time commemorate his sufferings and death. "Asthey were eating, Jesus took a loaf of bread and asked God'sblessing on it. Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to thedisciples,saying,'Takeitandeatit,forthisismybody.'AndhetookacupofwineandgavethankstoGodfor it.Hegave it tothemandsaid, 'Eachofyoudrinkfromit, forthis ismyblood,which seals the covenant between God and his people. It ispoured out to forgive the sins ofmany.'"Whowouldnot obeythe injunction, the dying injunction, of the Friend of sinners,"Thisdoinremembranceofme?"ComeandmanifestyourlovetotheLordJesus,athisowntable;come,forallthingsarenowready."Eat,Ofriends;drink,yes,drinkabundantly,Obeloved."

WhattenderlovedidtheblessedJesusmanifesttohissorrowfuldisciples,whenhewasabout to leave them,andbleedanddieonCalvary!"Don'tbetroubled.YoutrustGod,nowtrustinme.TherearemanyroomsinmyFather'shome,andIamgoingtoprepare a place for you. If this were not so, I would tell youplainly.When everything is ready, Iwill come and get you, sothatyouwillalwaysbewithmewhereIam."Consolingwords!What animating prospects are here presented to the humblefollowersofChrist!OurFather'shouse, themanymansionsofglory, our beingwithChrist,where he is, our future felicity inheaven,arehere,allheldupforourencouragement,whileinasufferingworld.

Howsolacing,howjoyfultothewearyChristian,strugglingamidthestormsandafflictionsoflife,tofindaHappyrestingplaceinourFather'shouse, in Immanuel's land! "Allhonor to theGodandFatherof ourLordJesusChrist, for it is byhis boundlessmercy thatGodhasgivenus theprivilegeofbeingbornagain.NowwelivewithawonderfulexpectationbecauseJesusChristrose again from the dead. For God has reserved a pricelessinheritance for his children. It is kept in heaven for you, pureandundefiled,beyondthereachofchangeanddecay.AndGod,

in his mighty power, will protect you until you receive thissalvation, because you are trusting him. It will be revealed onthelastdayforalltosee."

How brightly did the dying love of Jesus shine in that "upperroom" at Jerusalem! "Having loved his own who were in theworld,he loved themunto theend."Brighterandbrighterwillthatredeemingloveofhiseternallyshine intheupperroomofglory. There all Christ's dear children shall sit down at thebanquet of love spread there, from which they shall rise nomore;butwheretheyshallforever"eatofthathiddenmanna,"anddrinkofthatliving"wateroflife,clearascrystal,proceedingout of the throne of God and of the Lamb;" where they willforeverenjoy thepresenceandsmiles of a graciousRedeemer.Having uttered that beautiful prayer, "Father, the hour hascome;glorifyyourSon,thatyourSonalsomayglorifyyou,"theSavior calls upon his faithful band, "Arise, let us go." "Aftersaying these things, Jesus crossed the Kedron Valley with hisdisciplesandenteredagroveofolivetrees."

The sun had passed the western horizon, and the mantle ofdarkness was spread over a slumbering world, when thatmournfulgroupcrossedtheKedron,andenteredthegardenofGethsemane.ThereJesushadoftenresortedwithhisdisciples.Thespotwaswellknowntothemall.ButneverbeforehadtheSavior come here with a heart so full of sorrow. Listen to hismournfulcry,"Mysoul,"saidhe,"isexceedinglysorrowful,evenuntodeath:tarryhere,andwatchwithme."

Your sins, reader, bore him down. The sins of a lost worldoverwhelmedhim,andhe"fellonhisface,andprayed,saying,Omy Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me;nevertheless,notasIwill,butasyouwill."Ifthatbittercuphadpassed theSavior's lips,wherewouldyou,wherewould Ihavebeenthisday?WithoutaSavior,withoutaheaven,passingourwearydaysindarknessanddespair.Impenetrablegloomwouldhavebecloudedourbright immortalhopes.Butthanksbeunto

God for his unspeakable gift, for the gift of Jesus; for hispreciouslife,forhispreciousdeath,whichbringssalvationtoalost world! The sufferings of our Savior in the garden ofGethsemane, were all endured for us, guilty sinners. O whatpiercing agony is thatwhich rendshisheart, and forces "greatdrops of blood" down those pale cheeksmoistening the greenearth!"Andbeinginanagony,heprayedmostearnestly;andhissweatwas, as itwere, greatdropsofblood fallingdown to theground."

After rising from the earth he had moistened with his blood,Christ is apprehended and betrayed into the hands of sinners.The sword of divine justice is now fairly unsheathed. God theFather isnowcommissioningtheswordofhis justice toawakeagainsthisowndearSon,whoisnowdeliveredforouroffences."Awake, O sword, against my Shepherd, and against the manthat ismy fellow, says the Lord of hosts: smite the Shepherd,andthesheepshallbescattered;andIwillturnmyhanduponthelittleones."

The innocent sufferer of Gethsemane, who is none other thantheCreator ofworlds, and theAuthor of our being, is hurriedaway to the judgment hall of an earthly court, there to bederided and condemned to death by sinfulmortals. There theblessedRedeemergave"hisbacktothesmiters,andhischeeksto themwho plucked off the hair." There he "hid not his facefromshameand spitting."There thegloriousSonofGod "waswounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities,"woundedandbruiseduntilhisheavenly"visagewassomarredmorethananyman,andhisformmorethanthesonsofmen."

What condescension and love are here displayed! Wonder Oheavens! Be astonished O earth! Behold that bleeding victim,wearing a thorny crown, see his life's blood streaming fromeverylaceratedvein,andreadinthatbleedingheartthevastnessofredeeminglove!Hewhonowwearsthatcrownofthornsforsinners oncewore a crown of glory atGod's right hand.What

manner of love was that which led Christ to make such anexchangeasthis–acrownofgloryforacrownofthorns!Itwasthelove,theinfiniteloveheeverboretodyingsinners.Nothingbroughthim fromhis throneof glory tohis cross of suffering,but eternal, redeeming love. Look at the bleeding Jesus againandagainuntilyourheartsoverflowwithlovetohim.

PilatesaidtotheJews,"Beholdtheman!"WewouldsaytoyouinthelanguageofagreaterandbetterthanPilate,"BeholdtheLambofGodwhotakesawaythesinoftheworld!"BeholdhimasyourSavior,bleedingforyoursins.Beholdhimuntiltheeyeoffaithbrightens,andyouexclaimwithThomas,"MyLord(yes,mybleedingLord)andmyGod."InthatjudgmenthalltheLordof glory is condemned to death. There "hewas oppressed andtreatedharshly,yetheneversaidaword.Hewasledasalambtotheslaughter.Andasasheepissilentbeforetheshearers,hedidnotopenhismouth."

ButletusfollowHimtotheCROSS.Thatlastdreadfulnightofthe Son ofGod had passed.Morning had broken as clear andbeautiful as ever. The sun had risen in his strength, and hisglorious midday beams were now gladdening the orientallandscape;allnaturewassmilingaround,whenChrist,bearinghiscross,throngedbyanimmensecrowdofbitterenemiesandwondering spectators, is led away to be crucified. Leaving thegatesof thecrowdedcity, thatentourage is seenascending theslope of Mount Calvary. What views, what scenes are nowpresentedtotheastonishedgaze.TherestandsJerusaleminallits glory; Mount Zion with its countless edifices, palaces, andtowersof strength;MountMoriahwith itsmagnificent temple,whose glorious form dazzles the eye of the beholder as thesunbeams fall upon it; and a little before you, arises amysteriousMount,onwhosesummitthecrossofChrististobeerected.

Buttherewasafarmoreinterestingandglorioussightthanwasever before exhibited on earth, passing before you. All heaven

wasgazingwithprofoundinterestuponit.TherewastheSonofGod,thegloriousRedeemerofalostworld,goingtoransomhispeoplewithhisownblood– topay the last farthing thatGod'sholy law demanded- to make an end of sin- to bring in aneverlastingrighteousness-tovanquishSatanandallhislegions-to triumphover death itself, and the gloomy grave. TherewastheCaptainofoursalvationgoingtoopentheportalsofheavenandleadmillionsofAdam'ssonstoglory.TherewasOnewhosearm hadmade the heaven of heavens going to be nailed to across! "Carrying the cross by himself, Jesus went to the placecalled Skull Hill (in Hebrew, Golgotha). There they crucifiedhim. There were two others crucified with him, one on eitherside,withJesusbetweenthem."

What a scene is now transpiring on Calvary! Thousands aregazingontheSonofGodwelteringinhisownblood.Wellmightangelsleavetheirthronestolookuponsuchascene.Wellmightmortalsbeamazedatsuchloveasshinesaroundthatcross,anddazzledwiththatglorywhichbeamsfromCalvary.Theholy,theinnocent Jesus is nailed to the cross for sinners! But as hismurderers are, with heavy blows, driving the nails into hisblessedhandsandfeet,thosepale,quiveringlipsmutterstrangewords,whichpartakemoreofthelanguageofaGodthanaman;whichbreathenothingbutpardoninglove.ItisthedyingprayerofJesusforhismurderers,"Father,forgivethem;fortheyknownotwhattheydo."

BlessedJesus!youarecompassionitself.Ospeakthesewordstoevery reader. Say to him, to her, "Son, daughter, be of goodcheer; your sins are forgiven." "Father, forgive them; for theyknownotwhattheydo!"Thatprayerwassoonanswered.Manywho had shouted, "Crucify Him, Crucify Him," were soonafterwards crying, "Men and brethren, what shall we do to besaved?"Theywere indeedforgivenandacceptedbyhimwhomtheyhadcrucified.

AlmightySavior!yourpoweristhesamenow;breakeachheart

of stone. Your grace is the same now; pour it forth on guiltysinners.Thenwilltheylooktoyouwhomtheyhavepierced,andmourn!

"Father,forgive,(theSaviorsaid,)Theyknownotwhattheydo;Hisheartwasmoved,whenthusheprayedForme,myfriends,andyou.Hesawthat,astheJewsabusedAndcrucifiedhisflesh;Sohe,byus,wouldberefused,Andcrucifiedafresh.Throughloveofsin,welongwereproneToactasSatanbid;Butnowwithgriefandshameweown,Weknewnotwhatwedid.Weknewnotthedesertofsin,Norwhomwethusdefied;Norwhereourguiltysoulshadbeen,IfJesushadnotdied?Weknewnotwhatalawwebroke,Howholy,justandpure!NorwhataGodwedaredprovoke,Butthoughtourselvessecure.ButJesusallourguiltforesaw,AndshedhisPreciousbloodTosatisfytheholylaw,AndmakeourpeacewithGod.Mysin,dearSavior,madeyoubleed,Yetyoudidprayforme!IknewnotwhatIdid,indeed,Whenignorantofthee."

ForthreelonghoursdidtheSaviorhang,bleedingonthecross,enduring indescribableagonies.Oh,was thereeversorrow likethatwhichourdyingSaviorfelt!WellmightthesufferingJesusexclaim, "Behold and see if there be any sorrow like untomy

sorrow,whichisdoneuntome,whichtheLordhasafflictedmein the day of his fierce anger." One wave after another brokeover the Savior's soul, until the last, the heaviest of all, camerollingon tooverwhelmhim.HisFather–hisownFather,haddesertedhim;andfromthatbloodycrossaroseamostpiercingcry,"MyGod,myGod,whyhaveyouforsakenme?"

Amid thisdreadful suffering,nature seems to sympathizewithher bleeding Author. She gives a groan that makes the earthtremble, and turns the heavens into blackness.How awful theperiod!Darknesscoverstheland;thesunisdarkened;theearthquakes;therocksaretorn;theveilofthetempleistornintwo;the graves are opened, and sleeping saints arise. "At noon,darkness fell across thewhole land until three o'clock. At thatmomentthecurtainintheTemplewastornintwo,fromtoptobottom.Theearth shook, rocks split apart, and tombsopened.Thebodiesofmanygodlymenandwomenwhohaddiedwereraised from the dead after Jesus' resurrection. They left thecemetery,wentintotheholycityofJerusalem,andappearedtomanypeople."Wellmaythesunturnblackintheheavens;wellmay the earth quake, and the rocks break, when that divinePersonage is in the arms of death; and well may a heathencenturion exclaim at such a sight, "Truly, this was the Son ofGod."

Amidthisawfulconvulsionofnature,areheardthedyingwordsoftheManofCalvary.Intremuloustonestheyfallontheearsofthe amazed spectators; but the human ear was never beforegreetedwithsuchjoyfulsounds-withsuchglorioustidings.ThatbleedingSufferer never bowedhis head in death, until he hadconqueredeveryfoeandexclaimedwithhisdepartingbreath,inthelanguageoftriumph,"Itisfinished."

"Jesusknewthateverythingwasnowfinished,andtofulfilltheScriptureshesaid, 'Iamthirsty.'A jarofsourwinewassittingthere,sotheysoakedaspongein it,put itonahyssopbranch,andheldituptohislips.WhenJesushadtastedit,hesaid,'Itis

finished!'Thenhebowedhisheadandgaveuphisspirit.""Itisfinished!'' At the mention of these words the universe thrillswithjoy.Gladtidings!letthemringfrompoletopole–letthembe loudlyproclaimed fromeverypulpit–published fromeverypress; let every Christian blaze them abroad; let everymissionaryflywiththemtoheathenlands;letalltheendsoftheearthhearthejoyfulsound,"Itisfinished!"

WhenChristdied,theredemptionofa lostworldwasfinished.The gates of the new Jerusalem above were then opened toadmit the redeemed sinner. Heaven was then at peace withearth.God could then look in compassion and love on a rebelworld.Hecouldthenencircle inhisgraciousarmsthevilestofAdam'sapostaterace.

When Christ had commended his spirit into the hands of hisFather,thesolemnsceneofCalvarysoonclosed.Theastonishedmultitudebegantoleavethesacredspot,andmarchtowardsanoisycity."Andwhenthecrowdthatcametoseethecrucifixionsawallthathadhappened,theywenthomeindeepsorrow."Butreader, follownot a thoughtlessworld. Stay onCalvary! Thereview the bleeding glories of Immanuel. There taste thesweetness of redeeming love. There contemplate a glorious,finished salvation. O my soul, look to that precious bleedingSavior;trusthimforhisgrace;praisehimforhislove,andadorehimforthatgrandatonementwhichhemadeonCalvary!

"LetmedwellonGolgotha,Weepandlovemylifeaway:WhileIseehimonthetreeWeep,andbleed,anddieforme!Thatdearbloodforsinnersspilt,Showsmysininallitsguilt;Ah,mysoul,heboretheload,YouhaveslaintheLambofGod.Hark!hisdyingword,'ForgiveFather,letthesinnerlive;

Sinner,wipethetearsaway,Iyourransomfreelypay.'WhileIhearthisgracerevealed,Andobtainapardonsealed;Allmysoftaffectionsmove,Wakenedbytheforceoflove.Farewell,world,yourgoldisdross,NowIseethebleedingcross;JesusdiedtosetmefreeFromthelaw,andsinandthee!Hehasdearlyboughtmysoul,Lord,acceptandclaimthewhole!ToyourwillIallresign,Now,nomoremyown,butthine."

CHRISTCRUCIFIED(continued)

"Before whose eyes Jesus Christ has been evidently set forthcrucified."Gal.3:1

"ChristourPassoverissacrificedforus."-1Cor.5:7

Reader, before your eyes Jesus Christ has been evidently setforth crucified. You have followed him to Gethsemane; fromGethsemane to the judgment hall; from the judgment hall toCalvary. You have seen him extended on the cross, bathed inblood.Youhaveheardhisdyinggroans,andseenhimbowhishead and expire. Before your intellectual vision Calvary'smournfulscenehasbeenarrayed.

NowletusinquireintotheCAUSEofthesufferingsanddeathofChrist.WhydoestheLordoflifeandglorysuffer?Whydoesheendure that piercing agony and that bloody sweat in gloomyGethsemane? Why is he condemned to the death of Calvary?

Look at the crucified Jesus.Whydoes hehang on that bloodycross? Why are those blessed hands and feet nailed to theaccursedtree?Why is that dear side piercedwith the soldier'sspear?WhydoestheimmaculateLambofGodthusbleed?

Ah!believingsinner, it isforyou!Foryou,Christenduredthatindescribable agony in Gethsemane, and those excruciatingpains on Calvary. For you, the blood trickles down those palecheeks,andstreamsfromthatpiercedside.Foryou,theSonofGod endures thehidings of hisFather's face, until he is led toexclaim in the bitterness of his soul, "My God, my God, whyhave you forsakenme?"For you,his last breath isdrawn, andhis last cry uttered, "It is finished." O could you but see withfaith's vision,whatChrist has done for you, surely yourwholeheart would burn with love to such a Savior, who, to ransomyourprecioussoulfrometernalwoe,shedhisownblood!

Thatpreciousbloodwasnotshedinvain; itwaspouredouttocleanseyoufromtheguiltofsin.Itstreameddownthatcrosstowashawaythemoralstainsofapollutedworld.Notallthebloodthat flowed from the Jewish altars could do this. But thatvicarioussacrificeofferedonCalvary,expiatesthegreatestguilt.ThebloodofJesusChristcleansesfromallsin.Themeritoriousobedience, sufferings, and death of the incarnate Son ofGod,affordanamplesatisfactionforsin.God'sholy,butviolatedlawrequiresnothingmore.

Now,thereisnothingtocondemnbelieversinChrist."Thereistherefore now no condemnation to those who are in ChristJesus,whowalknotaftertheflesh,butaftertheSpirit."Inthe8th chapter of Romans- a chapter that ought to be written ingolden letters- theApostleboldlyexclaims, "Whoshall lay anythingtothechargeofGod'select?ItisGodwhojustifies?Whoishe thatcondemns?It isChristwhodied."This is theonlypleathataguiltysinnercanmakebeforeajustGod."ItisChristwhodied."Precioustruth!

BlessedJesus!itisfromyourdeaththatwederiveourlife,ourimmortallife.Itisfromyourbleedingsidethatwedrinkoftheliving waters of life, that we draw our purest joys and ourhighest felicities. We thank you, Almighty Savior, for yourprecious death, which confers such unspeakable blessings onsinners. Christ died that we might live. He died for us. Thedeceasewhichhe accomplished at Jerusalemwas for our sins,"Christdiedforoursins,accordingtotheScriptures.""Hewasmanifested to takeawayoursins." "Whohisownselfboreoursins in his own body on the tree, that we being dead to sins,should live unto righteousness, by whose stripes you werehealed.""Christalsohasoncesufferedforsins, the just for theunjust,thathemightbringustoGod."

Sin,then,wastheprocuringcauseofthesufferingsanddeathofGod'sdearSon.Ah!sinner,youhaveslaintheinnocentLambofGod. You have caused those wounds on Immanuel's gloriousperson. Your sins pierced him to the very heart.Will you notthenlookonHimwhomyouhavepierced,andmourn?Olookandlive,forinthatlookthereislife.LooktoHimwhoislifteduponthecrossforyou.HaveyoulookedtoChristforsalvation?LookingtoChristisnothingmorethanbelievingonhisgloriousname.HaveyoufaithinHim,inhisatoningblood?SavingfaithinacrucifiedChristisallthatisrequiredtofitthevilestsinnerfor glory. "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you shall besaved."

We entreat you again to look to a dying Savior. Let your eyesturntothatbloodytree,whoseleavesareforthehealingofthenations;forthehealingofyoursoul.ListentotheSavior'sowngraciouscall.Hark! fromthe topofCalvary, Ihear theblessedinvitation fall from the lips of the dyingMan, "Look untome,and be saved, all the ends of the earth." From heaven's highthroneIhearitstillproclaimedbythegloriousRedeemer,"Lookunto me and be saved." It is the voice of Immanuel callingsinners home to glory. It is the voice of God speaking in thetenderestaccentsofredeeminglove.

"TheGodwhooncetoIsraelspokeFromSinai'stop,infireandsmoke,Ingentlerstrainsofgospelgrace,Invitesusnowtoseekhisface.Hewearsnoterrorsonhisbrow,Hespeaksinlove,fromZion,now,ItisthevoiceofJesus'blood,CallingpoorwanderershometoGod.TheholyMosesquakedandfearedWhenSinai'sthunderinglawheheard;Butreigninggrace,withaccentmild,Speakstothesinnerasachild.Hark!howfromCalvaryitsounds;FromtheRedeemer'sbleedingwounds;PardonandgraceIfreelygive,Poorsinner,looktomeandlive.WhatotherargumentscanmoveTheheartthatslightsaSavior'slove!YettillAlmightypowerconstrain,Thismatchlessloveispreachedinvain.OSavior,letthepowerbefelt,Andcauseeachstonyhearttomelt!Deeplyimpressuponouryouth,Thelightandforceofgospeltruth."

WhenChristwascrucifiedtheveilofthetemplewastornintwo,thus showing that the way into the holiest of all- even intoheaven, was now opened by the blood that flowed fromImmanuel'sveins.Nomore sacrificeswere required.ThegreatAntitype- the bleeding Lamb ofGod had been offered. Sinner,heavenisnowopenedtoreceiveyou.Vileasyouare,youwillbeacceptedifyouonlylooktoacrucifiedJesus-ifyouonlytrustinhim for your whole salvation. O will you not embrace thatSavior,whowillleadyoutoglory?Arenotthejoysofablissfuleternityworthstrivingfor?Then"Therefore,mybrothers,beallthemoreeagertomakeyourcallingandelectionsure.Forifyou

do these things, youwillnever fall, andyouwill receive a richwelcomeintotheeternalkingdomofourLordandSaviorJesusChrist."

SeekaninterestinChristnow.Thenallthegloriesofheavenwillbe yours. If a crucified Christ is yours, blessings innumerablewill flow around your path to immortality, and through themeritsofImmanuelyouwillatlengthgainthehappyshoresofthatblessedworld,wherethewickedceasefromtroubling,andthe weary are at rest. Glorious rest! Who would not strive toobtain it? Christ endured the painful death of the cross topurchasethisrestforhispeople.Christdied,asacrificefortheirsins,thuspavingthewayfortheireternalsalvation.Hedied,asacrificeforthesinsofalostworld."Christwasonceofferedtobearthesinsofmany."Hewascrucifiedfora"multitudewhichnoman cannumber, of all nations, and kindreds, and people,andtongues."

Sinner, repair to the foot of the cross, and roll yourburdenofguiltonitsbleedingvictim–theLordJesus.Thereyourburdenwillbecome light;and there is room for you also to standandreceivethebalmwhichdropsfromthetopofthatbloodytreeforthehealingofadiseasedworld.Thoughyoumaybethechiefofsinners,yetyouareinvitedtocometothatcross.Hewhoonce,inhis infinite loveforyou,bledonit,himselfcallsyou."Comeuntome,"saystheSavior,inlanguageascompassionateaseverflowedfromhumanlips."Comeuntome,allwholaborandareheavyladen,andIwillgiveyourest."

Go,heavy-ladensinners,andfindrestinChrist.Enterintorestnow by believing in him. Remember that your iniquities werelaidontheheadofableedingSavior."TheLordhaslaidonhimtheiniquityofusall.""Hewaswoundedforourtransgressions,hewasbruisedforouriniquities;thechastisementofourpeacewaslaiduponhim;andwithhisstripeswearehealed.""ChristourPassoverissacrificedforus."Hisdeathisourlife;hisdearwoundsandbleedingside,oursoundnessandhealth.NowGod

ispacified,andthesinnersavedbythedeathofJesus.

To thosewhoare looking toa crucifiedRedeemer, and relyingentirely on the merits of his blood for life and salvation, thesweet language of a reconciledGod now is, "Comfort, comfortmypeople," says yourGod. "Speak tenderly to Jerusalem.Tellher thathersaddaysaregoneandthathersinsarepardoned.Yes,theLordhaspunishedherinfullforallhersins." 'Christ'sdyingforusisasmuchinGod'saccountasifwehadtwiceoverbornetheeternalagoniesofhell.'(McCheyne)

Blessed consolation! This is the language of our graciousHeavenlyFather,andoh!howrevivingisittothepoorpenitentsinner,who isoftenoppressedwitha senseof guilt andbornedown with the apprehension of impending wrath. He is nowenabled to shoutwith the adoring prophet in that sweet song,"Praise theLord!Hewasangrywithme,butnowhe comfortsme.See,Godhascometosaveme.Iwilltrustinhimandnotbeafraid. The Lord God is my strength and my song; he hasbecomemy salvation.With joy youwill drink deeply from thefountainofsalvation!"

YoumaywelltrustacrucifiedRedeemerwithyoursoulanditsimmortal concerns, for he has, by his obedience and death,effected a complete salvation for you. He breathed out hispreciouslifeforyou;butheroseagainforyourjustification.He"was delivered for our offences, and raised again for ourjustification." "I lay down my life for the sheep. I have othersheep,too,thatarenotinthissheepfold.Imustbringthemalso,andtheywilllistentomyvoice;andtherewillbeoneflockwithoneshepherd.TheFather lovesmebecause I laydownmy lifethatImayhaveitbackagain.Noonecantakemylifefromme.Ilaydownmylifevoluntarily.ForIhavetherighttolayitdownwhen I want to and also the power to take it again. For myFatherhasgivenmethiscommand."

Christwasindeedlaidinthecoldandsilenttomb;butGoddid

notallowhisHolyOne to see corruption.The sepulcher couldnotholdhim.Hetriumphedoverthegrave.Heburstthefettersofdeath,andinagloriousform,ascendedtoheaven.Thereheever lives to intercede for sinners; there he stands with openarmstoreceivethevilestofthevile."Thereforeheisable,onceand forever, to save everyonewho comes toGod throughhim.HelivesforevertopleadwithGodontheirbehalf."

Christ is not only able, but willing to save sinners; yes, herejoices intheirsalvation.Hedelights topluckthemasbrandsfrom the burning- tomake themmonuments of his victoriousgrace- trophies of his redeeming love- pillars in his glorioustemple above, where they shall sing the song of redemptionthroughalleternity."Heshallseeofthetravailofhissoul,andshallbesatisfied.""Forthejoythatwassetbeforehim(thejoyofsavingsinners,)enduredthecross,despisingtheshame,andhassatdownattherighthandofthethroneofGod."AcrucifiedRedeemerisstillcarryingonhisblessedworkofsavingsinners.Hissalvationistotheuttermost;noneneeddespair.

Come to Christ, and salvation is yours. Before closing thischapter,wewould just glanceat theamazing loveexhibited inthedeathofChrist.Wouldyouseethehighestmanifestationofeternal love? Then contemplate Christ crucified. Here is thegrand exhibition of infinite love. In the crucifixion of thegloriousRedeemer,thebrightestlovethatevershoneonearthisdisplayed.Whatboundlessloveisseenhere!TheinfiniteloveofChrist, shining in all its glory!What but infinite love broughthimfromtheheightofbliss,tothedepthsofsufferings,fromthethroneofheaventothecrossofCalvary!Whatbutinfinitelovemadehimasufferingman,andadyingSavior!WhatbutinfinitelovemadehimhastentoJerusalem,tosufferforsinners!WhatbutinfiniteloveledhimtoGethsemane,toendurethoseagoniesfor sinners, where his blessed form was covered with bloodysweat!What but infinite love nailed him to the cross, there tobleedanddieforsinners!

"Greaterlovehasnomanthanthis,thatamanlaydownhislifeforhis friends."Butoh! thegreatestwonder in theuniverse is,that"whilewewereyetSINNERS,Christdiedforus!"Thinkofthis,wonder at it, be amazed at it! Christ, the glorious Son ofGod, dying for you a vile sinner, a rebelworm!O admire thatlovewhichpitiedyouinyourlostcondition,visitedyourworld,andraisedyoufromthedepthsofsinandsuffering,tobecomean heir of eternal life, and of eternal glory! "When we wereutterlyhelpless,Christcameat just theright timeanddied forussinners.Now,nooneislikelytodieforagoodperson,thoughsomeonemightbewilling todie for apersonwho is especiallygood.ButGodshowedhisgreatloveforusbysendingChristtodie foruswhilewewere still sinners.And sincewehavebeenmaderightinGod'ssightbythebloodofChrist,hewillcertainlysave us from God's judgment. For since we were restored tofriendshipwithGodbythedeathofhisSonwhilewewerestillhis enemies, we will certainly be delivered from eternalpunishmentbyhislife."

Howvastisthislove!TheallsurpassingloveofadyingSavior!your breadths and lengths have never been compassed by ahuman thought; your depths never fathomed by a createdintelligence; your heights never scanned by a seraph's gaze!Dear believer, may you, the object of divine love, bestrengthenedwithmightbythespiritofGodintheinnerman,"Andmayyouhavethepowertounderstand,asallGod'speopleshould,howwide,how long, howhigh, andhowdeephis lovereally is.Mayyouexperience the loveofChrist, though it is sogreatyouwillneverfullyunderstandit."

Stupendous love! A length which reaches from everlasting toeverlasting; abreadth that encompasses every intelligence andeveryinterest;adepthwhichreachestheloweststateofhumandegradationandmisery;andaheightthatthrowsfloodsofgloryonthethroneandcrownofJehovah!

Whatatheme!thedyingloveofthecrucifiedSonofGod!Well

mayangelsdesiretodwellonthismystery!Wellmaysaintsbeenraptured with this profound subject! What heart is soobdurate as not to bemelted by its touching exhibition, or sobenightedasnottobedazzledbyitsglory!Howwonderful!Thathewho kindled up the stars of heaven, should take upon himournature,anddieinourroomandstead!Amazinglove!Thisisthewonderofwonders,theunsearchablerichesofChrist!

"Nottobethoughtof,butwithtidesofjoy;Nottobementioned,butwithshoutsofpraise."

Truly, the love of Christ passes knowledge. Those, and thosealone, who have stood by the cross and viewed Immanuel inagoniesanddeath,bleedinganddying for their sins;andhavefeltthathealingbalmappliedtotheirdiseasedsouls;haveseenalltheirsinswashedawaywiththebloodofGod,theirransompaid, and their pardon sealed, will realize the following veryappropriateandbeautifullines–

"InevillongItookdelight,Unawedbyshameorfear,Tillanewobjectstruckmysight,Andstoppedmywildcareer.IsawOnehangingonatree,Inagonyandblood,WhofixedHislanguideyesonme,AsnearHiscrossIstood.Surely,nevertomylatestbreath,CanIforgetthatlook;ItseemedtochargemewithHisdeath,ThoughnotawordHespoke.Myconsciencefeltandownedtheguilt,Andplungedmeindespair,IsawmysinsHisbloodhadspilt,AndhelpedtonailHimthere.Alas!IknewnotwhatIdid,Butnowmytearsarevain;

WhereshallmytremblingsoulbehidForItheLordhaveslain.AsecondlookHegave,whichsaid,'Ifreelyallforgive;Thisbloodisforyourransompaid;Idiethatyoumaylive.'Thus,whileHisdeathmysindisplaysInallitsblackesthue,Suchisthemysteryofgrace,Itsealsmypardontoo!Withpleasinggriefandmournfuljoy,Myspiritnowisfilled;ThatIshouldsuchalifedestroy,YetlivebyhimIkilled."(JohnNewton)

REDEMPTIONBYCHRIST

"In whom we have redemption through his blood, theforgivenessofsins,accordingtotherichesofhisgrace."Eph.1:7

"Redemption!whatagloriousplan;Howsuitedtoourneed!Thegracethatraisesfallenman,'Tiswonderfulindeed!TwasWisdomformedthevastdesign,Toransomuswhenlost;Andlove'sunfathomablemine,Providedallthecost.StrictJustice,withapprovinglook,Theholycovenantsealed;AndTruthandPowerundertookThewholeshouldbefulfilled.Truth,Wisdom,Justice,PowerandLove,Inalltheirgloryshone;

WhenJesusleftthecourtsabove,Anddiedtosavehisown."

In the works of creation, the power, wisdom and goodness ofGod are admirably displayed; but in the far greater andmoreglorious work of human redemption, his love shines in fullresplendency.HowgloriouswasthedesignofGodtoredeemalost world! How magnificent the plan of eternal redemption!This redemption originated in the infinite love of God theFather. "Godso lovedtheworld thathegavehisonlybegottenSon, thatwhoever believes in him shouldnot perish, but haveeverlastinglife."JesusChrististhegiftoftheFather–apreciousgift, indeed, to a lostworld.He is given to redeemhis people;giventhatwhoeverbelieves inhimshouldnotperish,buthaveeternallife.

Jesus Christ is therefore called the unspeakable gift of God."ThanksbeuntoGodforhisunspeakablegift." In thecounselsofeternity,ChristwaschosentobetheRedeemerofhispeople.GodgavehimasafreegifttotheChurch.Agreatergifthecouldnot bestow upon lost sinners. Had the Almighty given us tenthousandworldstopossess,theywouldhavebeenasnothingincomparison with Jesus Christ, his unspeakable gift. Oh! howgoodourGodis.Howgreatishispower,wisdomandgoodness,as manifested in the creation of the universe; but oh! howastonishing is his love, as exhibited in the redemption of acaptivatedworld– in sending his only begotten Son to die forsinners!

"Oh,everlastingloverOfourunworthyrace!YourgraciouseyesurveyedusErestarswereseenabove;Inwisdomyouhavemadeus,Anddiedforusinlove."

The gift of a Savior, and redemption throughhis blood, afford

thegrandestviewoftheeternalloveofGod.Aroundthissacredtheme, beam glorious rays of divine love. "God is love;" andredemption is but the effect of that love, inwhich theDeity isenshrined.LoveentersintotheveryessenceoftheDivinity;andwe see that it has blazed forth from the eternal throne, andshoneonourbenightedworld.Yes,thegloriouslighthasshonefrom heaven. It shines all around us. God loves this world.Blessedtruth!

Every page of divine revelation gleams with his love.Redemptionisfullofit.Herecontemplateit–"GodshowedhowmuchhelovedusbysendinghisonlySonintotheworldsothatwemighthaveeternallifethroughhim.Thisisreallove.Itisnotthatwe lovedGod, but that he lovedus and sent his Sonasasacrificetotakeawayoursins."JesusChristwillinglyundertookourredemption.Hecheerfullyofferedhimself tobearoursins,tobleedonthealtarofdivinewrath,toredeemusfrometernalmisery.OblessedSavior!yourloveneverhadabeginning;itislikeyourself,eternal.Lovealwaysglowedinyourblessedbosomforasinfulworld.AllthegloriesofParadisecouldnotkeepyoufrom leaving your throne to ransom a guilty race.When therewere no merciful arms to embrace us; no joyful heaven towelcomeus;yes,whenwewerelostsinners,you,blessedJesus,pitiedus,andhastenedonthewingsofyourlovetoredeemus,to bring us to glory, to seat us around your throne, in thecelestial palace. How wonderful is your love, O Friend ofSinners!

When thatmomentousquestionwas askedby theAlmighty inthecounselsofeternity,"WhomshallIsend,andwhowillgoforus?" Our blessed Savior came forward and said, "Here am I;send me." Christ was delighted with the glorious work ofredeemingalostworld.Whenthemorningstarssangtogether,andall the immortal sonsofGod shouted for joyovera risingworld, the Savior rejoiced over its redemption. Then his"delightswerewiththesonsofmen."

Redemptionwashischosenwork,and in itsexecutionhe tookthe greatest delight. Ages rolled away, and earth groanedbeneaththeburdenofitssin; idolatryandsuperstitionreignedintriumphoverthevastempires;moraldarkness,obscuringthelightofeternalday,enshroudedthehumanrace,untilthestarofBethlehempointedtotheinfantJesusasthegloriousRedeemerofhispeople!Anew light thenburst fromheavenupon them.Christ,"thebrightandmorningstar,"thatissuesinthelightofablissfuleternity,appearedinahumanform,andtrodthevalleyofhumanity.Hewillingly,yes,joyfully,lefthisthroneofglorytobringredemption to us.His languagewas, "Lo, I come; in thevolumeofthebookitiswrittenofme;Idelighttodoyourwill,OmyGod;yes,yourlawiswithinmyheart."

Our lost, pitiful condition called for aRedeemer.WhenChristcame to redeem us, we were on the verge of everlastingdestruction.Man,created in the imageofhisMaker,wasonceholyandhappy.Butsinsoonenteredourfairworld,andspreadruin and devastation all around. Pain was felt; disease andsuffering endured, and death embraced in his dismal arms, afallen world. Sin brought death, and all our misery, into thisworld."Byonemansinenteredintotheworld,anddeathbysin;andsodeathpasseduponallmen,forthatallhavesinned."

Howdeplorablewastheconditionofthehumanrace!Anawfuleternityofsufferingopened to theirview.ThenGod in infinitelovesaid,"Deliverhimfromgoingdowntothepit;Ihavefounda ransom for him." "I have foundDavidmy servant; withmyholyoilhaveIanointedhim."JesusChristwassetapartforthegreatworkofredemption;andattheappointedtime,Godsenthimtoredeemusfromthecurseofabrokenlaw,andtoguideus safely through the mazes of a bewildering scene, to theParadise above. "But when the right time came, God sent hisSon,bornofawoman,subjecttothelaw.Godsenthimtobuyfreedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he couldadoptusashisveryownchildren."

ToredeemlostsinnerswastheveryobjectforwhichtheSonofGod was sent into the world; for which he was made of awoman; for which he was made under the law. O matchlessgrace!Osovereignlove!thatGodsendhisSon,hisonlySon,tosave sinners! Here we behold a way of access opened toperishingsinnersthroughtheredemptionthatisinChristJesus.BlessedLord!may theknowledgeof thisunspeakablypreciousredemption through a crucified Redeemer fill my soul withgratitude and praise. "Mymouth shall speak the praise of theLord;andletallfleshblesshisholynameforeverandever."

LetusseeHOWtheredemptionofsinnerswaseffected.Wefindthatanimmensesumwaspaidfortheirransom;thatitrequiredthebloodofGod to redeemaworldofperishing sinners. "TheChurchofGod,whichhehaspurchasedwithhisownblood."Itisexpresslydeclaredthat"withoutthesheddingofblood,thereisno forgivenessof sins."Thebloodof theDeitymust floworelseaworldbe irrecoverably lost.ButtheSonofGodassumedhuman nature, and freely poured out his blood for ourredemption. Oh! the boundless love of Christ, that he shouldshedhispreciousblood for sinners.Oh! the infiniteefficacyofthat blood to cleanse from all sin. "The blood of Jesus Christcleansedusfromallsin."

Wesee then thatour redemption isbyprice. "ForGodboughtyouwithahighprice.SoyoumusthonorGodwithyourbody."Whatapricewaspaidforourredemption!ThepreciousbloodofJesus,theLambofGod!"ForyouknowthatGodpaidaransomto save you from the empty life you inherited from yourancestors.Andtheransomhepaidwasnotmeregoldorsilver.HepaidforyouwiththepreciouslifebloodofChrist,thesinless,spotless Lamb of God." Costly price ofman's redemption; theinfinitelypreciousbloodofChrist!Omysoul,lookwithwonderand amazement at your ransom the precious life and thepreciousbloodofJesus,"Hegavehis life to freeus fromeverykindofsin, tocleanseus,andtomakeushisveryownpeople,totally committed to doing what is right." "The Son of Man

came,togivehislifearansomformany."

It is a blessed consolation for the sinner to know that he hasredemptionthroughthebloodofChrist-thathehasaccesstoaholyGodthroughacrucifiedJesus.Howsweetarethosewords,"In whom we have redemption through his blood, theforgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace." Theblood of Christ is the fountain-head of all felicity. It is theblessed source from where emanates the living water of life;fromwhere flowpardonandpeace to a guiltyworld. It is that"river,thestreamswhereofmakegladthecityofGod."

Thirstysoul,comeandquenchyourthirstitthefountainoflife.Dearbeliever,comeanddrawwaterwithjoyoutofthewellsofsalvation. Long before a bleeding Savior hung on the cross, itwasprophesied,"InthatdaythereshallbeafountainopenedtothehouseofDavid,andtotheinhabitantsofJerusalemforsinand foruncleanness."The fountainhasbeenopened.The rockhas been smitten. Christ's side has been pierced! The sacredstreams have gushed from the cross– have flowed aroundCalvary.

WhenourSaviorinstitutedthesacramentalsupperhesaid,"forthisismyblood,whichsealsthecovenantbetweenGodandhispeople.Itispouredouttoforgivethesinsofmany."This,thisisthe fountainof joy– thewellofendless life.Here, sinnersmaydrinkandneverthirstagain.Andallareinvitedtocometothewaters.Thegospel invitationextends toall classesofmankindwithoutexception;tothevileaswellastothegood;tothepooras well as to the rich; to the young as well as to the old. Theblessedcallstandsemblazonedonthepagesofinspiration.Withtheauthorityofthemajestyofheaven,Irepeat ittoathirstingandfamishingworld,"Isanyonethirsty?Comeanddrink—evenifyouhavenomoney!Come,takeyourchoiceofwineormilk—it'sall free!Whyspendyourmoneyon foodthatdoesnot giveyoustrength?Whypayforfoodthatdoesyounogood?Listen,and Iwill tell youwhere to get food that is good for the soul!

Cometomewithyourearswideopen.Listen,forthelifeofyoursoulisatstake.Iamreadytomakeaneverlastingcovenantwithyou. I will give you all the mercies and unfailing love that IpromisedtoDavid.""Whosoeverwill, lethimtakethewateroflifefreely."

Blessed be God for that "whosoever." None are forbidden totaste "the water of life." The vilest sinner may come to the"waters"anddrink,andliveforever.NoneareexcludedfromthewayofsalvationthroughtheatoningbloodoftheLambofGod.Whatencouragementisthereforalltocometothebleedingsideof Immanuel, there toreceive thepardonofsin,obtaineternallife,andimbibeimmortaljoys!

Here is redemptionoffered toyou.Willyoureceive it?Here isthebreadandwateroflife.Willyoueatthatwhichisgoodandlet your soul delight itself in fatness?Will you drink from thefountainofimmortality?"Butthosewhoeatmyfleshanddrinkmybloodhaveeternallife,andIwillraisethematthelastday.""Allwhoeatmyfleshanddrinkmybloodremaininme,andIinthem.IlivebythepowerofthelivingFatherwhosentme;inthesameway,thosewhopartakeofmewilllivebecauseofme.Iamthetruebreadfromheaven.Anyonewhoeatsthisbreadwillliveforeverandnotdieasyourancestorsdid,eventhoughtheyatethemanna."

Oh! who would not come and he made a partaker of suchinestimable blessings as cluster around the cross of a lovingRedeemer. Here is all that a dying sinner requires or hisredemption.Hereisallthatafeeblesaintneedsforhiscomfortand supportduringhispilgrimage throughableakandbarrenworldwhichisfarfromhishome.Whatjoysaretobefoundinredemption byChrist! They are unspeakable and full of glory.Theyflowdownthenarrowstreamoftimeandexpandintotheboundlessoceanofeternity!

RedemptionbyChristaffordssweetpeacetothesoul.Theblood

of Jesus poured out from the crossmakes peace betweenGodand the sinner. "Havingmade peace through the blood of hiscross."ItbringsusneartoGod."ButnowyoubelongtoChristJesus.ThoughyouoncewerefarawayfromGod,nowyouhavebeen brought near to him because of the blood of Christ."Preciousblood,thatbringsussonearourheavenlyFather!"Youhave come to Jesus, the one who mediates the new covenantbetween God and people, and to the sprinkled blood, whichgraciously forgives instead of crying out for vengeance as thebloodofAbeldid."This is thebloodof "Jesus theMediator ofthenewcovenant."

This blood satisfies offended justice, redeems the sinner andprepares him for glory. The blood of Jesus atones for all sin.Thereisredemptionforallsinners,then,iftheywillbutapplytotheatoningbloodofJesusforcleansing.Thereisjustificationtoacquit all; there is righteousness to clothe all. "Thepeoplewilldeclare, 'The Lord is the source of all my righteousness andstrength.' In the Lord all the generations of Israel will bejustified,andinhimtheywillboast."ThesinnerrejoicestofindintheLordJesus,completeredemption."Beingnowjustifiedbyhisblood,weshallbesavedfromwraththroughhim."

"BlessedSavior,speakaword,Bidallmysorrowscease;Oh,bemygreatatoningLord,MyRighteousnessandPeace.Oh,letyourpreciousblooddivine,Washallmysinsaway,Thenshallmysoulresplendentshine,Throughheaven'seternalday."

HowmercifulisourGod!Howfreeishisgrace!HowplentifulisthatredemptionwhichisinChristJesus!"LetIsraelhopeintheLord,forwiththeLordthereismercy,andwithhimisplenteousredemption.""YetnowGodinhisgraciouskindnessdeclaresusnotguilty.HehasdonethisthroughChristJesus,whohasfreed

us by taking away our sins. For God sent Jesus to take thepunishment for our sins and to satisfyGod's anger against us.WearemaderightwithGodwhenwebelievethatJesusshedhisblood,sacrificinghislifeforus.Godwasbeingentirelyfairandjustwhenhedidnotpunishthosewhosinnedinformertimes.And he is entirely fair and just in this present time when hedeclaressinners toberight inhissightbecause theybelieve inJesus."

O sinner, come and taste the joys of redemption. Exercise alively faith in the atoning blood of the Son of God.Wewouldlead you to the bleeding sacrifice; we would point you to thecrossofChristasyouronlyredemption.Wewouldtellyouinthetenderest language that there is redemption for you. Christ ismade unto us "redemption." Cleaving to him you shall beredeemed from all evil and sin, and finally admitted into theParadise of God. Our blessed Savior has obtained eternalredemptionforus,andhewillsoonleadustoglory.

This is the grand object of Christ's sufferings and death, or inother words, of his redemption– to bring "many sons untoglory." Redemption by Christ, then, is an eternal deliverancefrom sin and sufferings, and the permanent enjoyment of thehighest bliss in heaven. All the happiness of the redeemed ingloryresultsfromredemptionbyChrist.Allthefuturefelicityofthe whole household of faith, through eternity, will flow fromthat redemption completed on Calvary. "He providedredemption for his people; he ordained his covenant forever–holyandawesomeishisname."

By shedding his own blood, the Redeemer has purchasedeverlastingsalvationforhispeople."SoChristhasnowbecometheHighPriestoverallthegoodthingsthathavecome.Hehasentered that great, perfect sanctuary in heaven, not made byhuman hands and not part of this created world. Once for alltimehetookbloodintothatMostHolyPlace,butnotthebloodof goats and calves. He took his own blood, and with it he

secured our salvation forever." Here we may see the eternal,matchlessloveofChrist,insheddinghispreciousbloodforourredemption. Love was the impelling motive that led him toundertakeourredemption;andloveenabledhimtoexclaim,"Itisfinished."Lovemadehimofferhimselfasacrificeforoursins."ChristlovedusandgavehimselfupforusasafragrantofferingandsacrificetoGod."

Christ calls the church, "his beloved." "Oh, howdelightful youare,mybeloved; howpleasant for utter delight!"He loved thechurchsoardentlyas to redeem itwithhisownblood. "Christlovedthechurchandgavehimselfupforhertomakeherholy,cleansingherbythewashingwithwaterthroughtheword,andtopresenther tohimself as a radiant church,without stain orwrinkleoranyotherblemish,butholyandblameless."

Christ's love to the church is eternal. "I have loved you, mypeople, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I havedrawn you tomyself." And again, "Since youwere precious inmysightyouhavebeenhonorable,andIhave lovedyou."PaulthuscelebratestheredeemingloveofChristtohischurch,"Youknowhowfullof loveandkindnessourLordJesusChristwas.Thoughhewasveryrich,yetforyoursakeshebecamepoor,sothatbyhispovertyhecouldmakeyourich."

THENEWSONGINGLORY

"Andtheysanganewsong."Revelation5:9

TheredeemingloveofChristwillbecelebratedthrougheternity.In heaven, redemption by Christ will be the grand theme, thesweetsongofthefamilyofGod.Itisthat"NewSong"whichallthe redeemed sing in glory. It will have no dying cadencethroughtherevolvingagesofablessedeternity.Itwillbealwaysnew; yes, when ages countless as the drops of the ocean shallhaverolledaway, thesongofredemptionwillbeasnewtothe

redeemed aswhen the celestialmansions first echoedwith itspealingstrains.

In the house of his pilgrimage, redemption was the believer'ssong, and in that house, not made with hands, eternal in theheavens, it will be his sweet song through countless ages. Oblessedthought!Whowillnotnowcommencethe'newsong'ofredemption! Will you not chant songs to him who died toransom you from eternal woe? The songs of the gratefulfollowers of the Lamb never end. The saints will find eternalemployment inpraisingChrist forthatpreciousredemptionhehas effected by his death. The notes of praise to a crucifiedRedeemer sound through the narrow limits of time and therollingagesofeternity.

Inheaven,ChristwillbeeternallyadmiredastheLambthatwasslain for the redemption of sinners. There he stands in the"midst of the throne" as the Lamb of God that was oncewounded, and bruised, and slain. "And I beheld, "says John,"andlo,inthemidstofthethrone,andofthefourbeasts,andinthemidst of the elders, stood a Lamb as if it had been slain."Every eye shall see him there. Every tongue shall praise himthere.All the redeemed shall shout, "Worthy is the Lamb thatwas slain!"Thiswill be the themeof theNewSong."Thiswillsound the loudest through heaven– "Worthy is the Lambwhowas slain." "There will be much in Jesus to admire when weshallseehimasheis.Butthatwhichwilldrawouttheloudestnotesofthenewsong,willbethesightoftheprintsofthenails,andofthewoundinhisside."(McCheyne)

Therewill be none brought to heaven but thosewhowill singeternal praises to the Lamb for the wonders of redemption.Therewillbenomutetongueinglory.AllvoicesandallheartsshalluniteinsingingtheNewSong.Whentheportalsofheavenwere opened to the beloved John, and the glory of the NewJerusalemcamebeaming through thosepearlygates,heheardthe music of Zion; and what was it but the New Song of

redemption?"Andtheysanganewsongwiththesewords:Youareworthytotakethescrollandbreakitssealsandopenit.Foryouwere killed, and your bloodhas ransomedpeople forGodfromeverytribeandlanguageandpeopleandnation.Andyouhave caused them to become God's kingdom and his priests.Andtheywillreignontheearth."

Wefindthatamightymultitudewillbecongregatedinglorytosing the song of redemption; some from "every kindred, andtongue,andpeople.""AfterthisIsawavastcrowd,toogreattocount, from every nation and tribe and people and language,standinginfrontofthethroneandbeforetheLamb.Theywereclothed in white and held palm branches in their hands. Andtheywereshoutingwithamightyshout, 'SalvationcomesfromourGodonthethroneandfromtheLamb!'"

WhatagloriouscompanywillthatbewhoshalleternallystandonthecelestialMountZion!Howsweetwillbetheirsong!Howrapturous their delight! How ecstatic their joy! But reader,pause, and ask, "Am I tomingle among that blessedhostwhonever cease to praise God and the Lamb? Is the new song ofredemptiontobemysweetsongabove?"

Liveforeternity- liveforChristnow,andyouwillsoonjoinalltheredeemedfamilyofGod,insongsthatwillneverend.WithyourrobeswashedwhiteinthebloodoftheLamb,youshallbepresentedfaultlessbeforethethroneofGod,topraisehimwholovedyouandwashedyoufromyoursinsinhisownblood.ThenyouwillseeyourgloriousRedeemer,whowillalwaysbetoyouthe center of heavenly attraction.Howwill your grateful heartburnwith seraphic love to himwhosebloodbrought you suchheavenly bliss, and whose merits crowned you with suchinconceivable glory! Your hearts will overflow with more joythanlanguagecanexpress.Youwillthen,inthelightofheaven,see that redemption by Christ is a precious work- that rich,inestimableblessingsflowfromtheatoningblood.

Besurenottotramplethatbloodunderfootnow.Youwillneverbecrownedwithglorywithoutyour robesarewashedwhite inthebloodof theLamb.Youmusthave a saving interest in thedeath of Christ, before you can learn that "new song," which,nonebuttheredeemedsing."ThisgreatchoirsangawonderfulnewsonginfrontofthethroneofGodandbeforethefourlivingbeingsandthetwenty-fourelders.Andnoonecould learnthissong except those 144,000 who had been redeemed from theearth. "And they sang the song ofMoses, and the song of theLamb.''

On the sublime vision of heavenly worship as given to JohnwhenbanishedtothelonelyPatmos,awriterwhomweadmire(Headley)hasthefollowingloftyexpressions:"Thesingerswerethose hundred and forty-four thousand, and they sung a newsong, and as they struck their harps, together thus they sung:'WorthyistheLambthatwasslain,toreceivepowerandriches,andwisdom,andstrength,andhonor,andglory,andblessing.'Andwithonevoicetheinnumerablehostchantedtheheavenlydoxology, 'Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be untohimthatsitsonthethrone,andtotheLambforever;andbackreturnedthe long 'Amen.'Againandagainwas it takenupandechoedfromranktorankalongthatcelestialmountain,untilitcame rollingbackwithall the strengthof archangel voices fullonthethroneofGod.Thetheme,thesongwasnew-itwasthesong of Redemption. David stood there sweeping a harp farmoremelodiousandtunefulthantheonehesweptwithsuchamaster-hand on earth. Elijah poured his soul of fire into it.Isaiahgaveitaloftierecho.Themartyrs,thosewitnessesforthetruth who had passed through the flames to their reward,furnishednewaccessionstoitsstrength;foralltheransomedoftheLordwerethere.AaronwentuptherefromthetopofMountHoreb, and Moses from Pisgah. Elijah's chariot of fire neverstoppeduntilitsburningwheelsrestedonthatheavenlymount,and there Christ ascended from the hill of Olives. Thus theredeemedhave flockedoneafteranother to theMountofGod,and there they shall continue together until the glorious

assemblystandscomplete,andGodisallandinall."

How will the arches of heaven resound with that "new song"when all the redeemed are gathered home by the blood ofChrist!"Andwhatinyonderrealmsabove,Isransomedmanordainedtobe?Withhonor,holinessandlove,Noseraphmoreadornedthanhe!Nearestthethrone,andfirstinsong,Manshallhishallelujahsraise;Whilewonderingangelsroundhimthrong,Andswellthechorusofhispraise."

Howmanyredeemedsinnersarenowbeforethethrone,singingeverlasting songs to Him who died for them on Calvary! Theredeemed are fast flocking to their everlasting home in glory."Those who have been ransomed by the Lord will return toJerusalem, singing songs of everlasting joy. Sorrow andmourningwilldisappear,andtheywillbeovercomewithjoyandgladness." Prophets and apostles and martyrs, the great andgood of every age and nation, are already in Zion above, andredemption is their song! Those immortal divines, Baxter,Bunyan, Flavel, Owen, Henry, Doddridge, Watts, Edwards,Payson, Martyn, Chalmers, the lovely McCheyne, and thevenerable Alexander; have ascended to swell the throne, insinging"WorthyistheLamb!"

Thissongbreathesoneverylip inglory,andburstsfromeveryheartthere.Onesongemploysall thetonguesof theredeemedinthemansionsofbliss."Tenthousand,thousandaretheirtongues,Butalltheirsongsareone."

Dear follower of the Lamb, we shall all shortly join with thefamilyofGodinthis"newsong,"inmansionsofGlory.Then,liftupyourheadwith joy; "for your redemptiondrawsnear."The

hourofglorywillsoonbeathand."Oh,glorioushour,itcomeswithspeed!Whenwe,fromsinanddarknessfreed,ShallseetheGodwhodiedforman,Andpraisehimmorethanangelscan."

Life is fasthasteningaway.Timeisswiftly flying.Eternity isatthe door. You are just on the threshold of glory– just withinsightofParadise.Thegatesofthecelestialcityareabouttoopenforyour reception, andyourSavior is ready topronounce thatblessed invitation, "Welldone,goodand faithful servant,enterintothejoyofyourLord.""ThentheKingwillsaytothoseonhisright, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take yourinheritance,thekingdompreparedforyousincethecreationoftheworld.'''

Does not a sight of all this glorymake you long to obtain it?Thenpressonward;press toward themark for theprizeof thehigh calling of God in Christ Jesus. One stepmore, and glorywillbeamuponyoureye,andthejoysofheavencaptivateyourheart,andthemusicofParadisecharmyourear!Thehourwillsooncomewhen theshiningmansionsshall receiveyou,whenanexceedingandeternalweightofgloryshallcrownyou;whenyou shall begin that "new song" which you learned on earth;whenredemptionbyChristshallbeyourunendingtheme.

Oh!thisisheaven,whereallrestinthebosomofGod;whereallbeholdtheRedeemer'sface;whereallaresingingthatwondrous"new song" which fills heaven with joy, and eternity withundying melody, as it ascends in pealing notes from themansionsofglory,"Allpraisetohimwholovesusandhasfreedusfromoursinsbysheddinghisbloodforus.Hehasmadeushis kingdom and his priests who serve beforeGod his Father.Givetohimeverlastingglory!Herulesforeverandever!Amen!"

You will soon begin your everlasting song in the uppersanctuary."WorthyistheLambthatwasslaintoreceivepower,

andriches,andwisdom,andstrength,andhonor,andglory,andblessing.Blessing,andhonorandglory,andpower,beuntohimthatsitsuponthethroneanduntotheLambforeverandever."

"Oh,holy,holyLord!Whomangelhostsadore;WhenshallIjoininrapturedstrains,Thebrightcelestialchoir?Inpityviewasinfulworm,Aprisonerherebelow;ApilgrimjourneyingthroughthelandOfdarkness,sinandwoe.TenthousandvoicesroundyourthroneUniteinhymnsdivine;'SalvationtotheLamb!'theycry,Ashighinblisstheyshine.FainwouldInowbeginthesong,ToyoumyGodandfriend;Thenminglewiththechoirsabove,Inpraisewhichne'ershallend."

CHRIST,ANDHIMCRUCIFIED,THESUMANDSUBSTANCEOFTHE

GOSPEL

"Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum"Hebrews8:1

Thegospel isglad tidingsofgreat joy toa lostworld. Itbringsimmortalitywithin the reach of dying sinners. It opens untoldgloriestothem.Itbringslifeandimmortalitytolight.Dispellingthemoraldarknessofafallenworld,itpointstoaneternaldayof light and glory. Delivering from eternal misery thecondemnedsinner,itrevealstohimthewayofsalvation; leads

himin thepathof righteousness;and finallybringshimtotheenjoyment of endless felicity in the heavenly world. Blessedgospel!Wellmayyoubestyled"goodtidingsofgreatjoy."

Whatblessingsflowinthegospelchanneltoexhilarateathirstyworld!Itisthegospelthatmakesthewildernessandthesolitaryplace to be glad, and thedesert to rejoice, andblossomas therose;thatmakestheparchedgroundtobecomeapool,andthethirstylandspringsofwater."Eventhewildernesswillrejoiceinthosedays.Thedesertwillblossomwithflowers.Yes,therewillbeanabundanceofflowersandsingingandjoy!Thedesertswillbecome as green as the mountains of Lebanon, as lovely asMount Carmel's pastures and the plain of Sharon. There theLordwilldisplayhisglory,thesplendorofourGod."

HowrefreshingtothewearychildofGod,tohedowningreenpastures; tobe ledbeside thestillwatersofgospelgrace!Howcheering to say, in a world of sin and sorrow anddisappointment,withthesweetPsalmist,"Surelygoodnessandmercyshallfollowmeallthedaysofmylife;andIwilldwellinthe house of the Lord forever." Who can describe theblessednessandtheglory,thatarecontainedinthissingleverse!Whocanenumerate theblessings that flow from the gospel ofGod!Inthisblessedgospel,"mercyandtrutharemettogether;righteousnessandpeacehavekissedeachother."ThebloodofJesus,throughthegospel,proclaimspeaceonearthandgloryinheaven-suchpeaceaspassesallunderstanding,andsuchgloryasthehumanhearthasneverconceived.

We now turn to notice the SOURCE from where all gospelblessings flow. It is in Christ and him crucified that theyoriginate. This is the blessed origin of all goodness; theinexhaustible fountain of love to guilty, rebelliousman. In thegospel,ableedingSaviorisheldupinaplannersoconspicuousas to attract the attention, and excite the admiration of allanxious inquirers after salvation. They look to him and arerelievedoftheburdenofsinandguilt.Hisgraceissofree,and

hislovesounbounded,thatallmaylookandbesaved.AndallthatlooktoJesusandrenouncetheirownrighteousnessshallbesaved.AbleedingJesusisthesumofChristianity,andtheonlyhopeofa lostworld. Inhimall fullnessdwells,aroundhimallblessingsflow,fromhimallgloriesemanate.

"DearJesus,fillmysoulWithholinessandpeace;Arisewithhealinginyourwings,Oh,SunofRighteousness.MayallbeneaththeskyUsurpmyheartnomore;Oh,bemyfirst,mychiefdelight,Mysoul'sunboundedstore.Inyoualltreasureslie,Fromyouallblessingsflow;Youaretheblissofsaintsabove,Thejoyofsaintsbelow.Oh,come,andmakemeyours,Asinnersavedbygrace;ThenshallIsingwithloudeststrains,Inheaven,yourdwelling-place.Whenstandingroundthethrone,Amidtheransomedthrong,Yourpraiseshallbemysweetemploy,Whileloveinspiresmysong."

Christ, and him crucified, is the sum and substance of thegospel. What is the gospel but a glorious revelation of Christcrucified, a gracious plan of salvation through the merits ofImmanuel'sblood!ItisonlythroughacrucifiedRedeemerthatwe can be admitted into heaven. Our salvation is intimatelyconnected with him. Take away Christ, and you bury ourimmortal hopes in the dust; you demolish the glorioussuperstructure of gospel truth. If there had been no Saviorproclaimed, there would have been no salvation for perishingmen-nogospelofthegraceofGod.

But Christ is revealed in the gospel as the great object of ourfaith.Therehestandsasthegreatcenterofallholyattractions-asthesumofallourhappiness.Inthegospelrevelation,Christisall.TheBibleisfullofhim.FromGenesistoRevelation,heisset forth in all the loveliness of his character, and in all therichnessofhis grace todyingmen.Enrapturedprophets dwellonhim,inspiredpoetssingofhim,andardent,zealousapostlesblazehisnameabroad.

Thegranddesignofadivinerevelationis toexhibitChristandhimcrucifiedastheonlyhopeoralostworld.Christisthegloryof the Scriptures, as the sun is the glory of the sky. "To takeChristfromtheBible,"saysawriterofotherdays,"wouldbelikeblotting the sun from the firmament." It will avail nothingwhateverdiscoverieswemake,ifwefindnot,toourpresentandeternal welfare, him of whomMoses and the prophets wrote.Thekeyofknowledgewillbeof littleuse,unless itopenstoustheunsearchablerichesofChrist."Thesethingsarewrittenthatyoumightbelieve thatJesus is theChrist, thesonofGod;andthatbelieving,youmighthavelifethroughhisname."Thesumand substance of all evangelical preaching is, Christ and himcrucified.

"WepreachChristcrucified,"saysoneofthegreatestministersof Jesus Christ. Christ crucified was the substance of Paul'spreaching. With ardent, burning eloquence he dwelt on thisglorious theme.Thiswas thebrand topicofallhiswritingandpreaching. He set nothing else before the people but Christcrucified.He desired to know nothingmore, for he knew thatnothing more was essential to salvation than the savingknowledgeofChrist,andhimcrucified.Hecaughtthisglorioustruth,andpublished it toadyingworld.He summonedall hisenergies tounderstand thisdeepmystery.Thiswashis study–"For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you exceptJesusChristandhimcrucified."

Christandhimcrucified, is thevery lifeof thegospel.Hereallthelinesofevangelicaltruthmeetinonecentralpoint.BlessedbeGod,foracrucifiedSavior!Omysoul,putyourtrustinhim.StudyChrist, and him crucified.He is the life of the soul; thesalvationofthesinner.SearchtheScriptures;fortheytestifyofhim; yes, "the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy."Prophetsspeakofhimasthebleedingsacrificeforsin.TheOldTestamentpointstohimastheLambofGodthattakesawaythesinoftheworld.TheNewTestamentisrepletewiththehistoryofthecrucifiedSavior.

"Of gospelhistory,what is the sum?Christ crucified!Whatdothefourevangelistsrelate?Theyall,forsubstance,tellthesamestory;andthatstoryisrightlytermedthegospel.Itisthehistoryofthecross.Inthemouthoftwoorthreewitnesseseverywordisestablished.Godhasgraciouslygivenusfour,all inspiredbyhis Holy Spirit, to relate the birth, the life, the labors, thepreaching, themiracles, thesufferings,and thedeathofJesus.They tell us what he said; what he did; and what he enduredfromthepowers,fromthehandsofmen,andfromtheswordofjustice. They inform us how he was at last, condemned, andnailedtothetree,forthetestimonywhichheboretothetruth,that he was the only begotten Son of God, and that the samedivinehonorswereduetohimastotheFather."

What a long series of prophecies was accomplished in Christ,andhimcrucified!TheSpiritofGodinalltheprophets,testified"beforehand the sufferingsofChrist, and theglory that shouldfollow."Christisthesumofprophecy.Tothetwodisciplesgoingto Emmaus, he explained the prophecies relating to himself."ThenJesussaidtothem,'Youaresuchfoolishpeople!YoufinditsohardtobelieveallthattheprophetswroteintheScriptures.Wasn't it clearly predicted by the prophets that the Messiahwouldhavetosufferallthesethingsbeforeenteringhistimeofglory?'ThenJesusquotedpassagesfromthewritingsofMosesand all the prophets, explaining what all the Scriptures saidabouthimself."Andagain,"WhenIwaswithyoubefore,Itold

youthateverythingwrittenaboutmebyMosesandtheprophetsand in the Psalmsmust all come true." Then he opened theirmindstounderstandthesemanyScriptures.Andhesaid,"Yes,itwaswrittenlongagothattheMessiahmustsufferanddieandriseagainfromthedeadonthethirdday."

The life, the sufferings, and the death of Messiah were allforetold in glowing language, by the prophets of God. Moseswroteofhim.JobknewthathisRedeemerlived.AbrahamgotaglimpseofChrist'sday,anditgladdenedhisheart.JacobspokeofthecomingofShiloh,thePrinceofPeace.Isaiah,transportedintofuturetimes,cries:"Forachildisborntous,asonisgiventous.Andthegovernmentwillrestonhisshoulders.Thesewillbe his royal titles: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His ever expanding,peaceful government will never end. He will rule forever withfairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David."Micah foretells the place of his birth, "But you, O BethlehemEphrathah,areonlyasmallvillageinJudah.YetarulerofIsraelwillcomefromyou,onewhoseoriginsarefromeverlasting."

ToDaniel the timewas revealed,whenMessiah should be cutoff, to finish transgression, to make an end of sins, to makereconciliationforiniquity,tobringineverlastingrighteousness,and to seal up the vision and prophecy. The Psalmist foretoldthe sufferings and death of Jesus on the cross as if he hadactually witnessed them. The 53d chapter of Isaiah, and the22nd Psalm are full of Christ and him crucified. Thus, all theprophets highly extol him, who is the great and gloriousDelivereroflostman.ChristandhimcrucifiedisthesumofallthesegoodthingsthatGodpromisedtohisancientpeople; thesubstanceofallthosetypes,andshadows,andemblems,whichprefiguredgoodthingstocome.

Thewholeceremoniallawwasashadowofgoodthingstocome;but "the substance is about Christ." The paschal lamb bled onJewishaltars,astheemblemofableedingSavior.HenceChrist

is styled, "the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.""The Lamb ofGod,who takes away the sin of theworld."Hispreciousbloodisrepresentedtobelikethatof"alambwithoutblemish andwithout spot." All the Jewish sacrifices, rites andceremonieswerefullofChristcrucified.Theypointedtothisonegreatsacrificeforsin.Theyreferreddirectlytohim,whosedeathastrulyanatoningsacrifice.

"Thedeathof atonement, then,which theSonofGoddied forour reconciliation, was that to which all sacrifices, from theearliest times, had respect, as their great termination, andwithoutwhichtheywouldhavebeendestituteofreasonastheywere,intheirverynature,ofallactualvalueintheverysightofheaven. Ifholymenofoldmadeanacceptableuseof them, indrawingneartoGod,itwasonlybylookingthroughthemtothisall-perfect, all-sufficient sacrifice which they prefigured. Thisgreatsacrifice,accordingly,beingofferedupinduetime;allthatwerebefore itwerecompletelydoneaway;andall thatancientsortofworshipwentforeveroutofuse''

Christ crucified is nowproclaimed in the everlasting gospel asthesubstanceofallourholyreligion.Whoeverhasfaithinhim,has true religion in his soul. Whoever believes on a crucifiedChrist,shallbeadmittedintotheParadiseofGod,toeatofthefruitsof"thetreeoflife,"andtodrinkofthecrystalstreamsoflivingwater,which flow from the throne of theDeity.O then,giveyourhearttoJesus,andhewillfityouforglory.

Of the ordinances of divine grace, what is the sum? Christcrucified.TheirgranddesignistosetHimforthasanofferingofatonement, through faith in his blood. Of the sacramentalsupper, what is the substance? Christ crucified. This sweetordinance is full ofChrist andhiswhole gloriouswork for thesalvationofsinners. Inthebrokenbreadandpouredoutwine,we see nothing but the crucifixion of the blessed Son of God.Here, he is presented to us as the glorious Savior dying forsinners.Here,wegetaglimpseofhismatchlessperfections-of

his transcendent glory. Here, all his sufferings rise up to ourview- the sufferings of his holy soul- the agonies of his crueldeath. Here is nothing but Christ and him crucified. How theloveandgraceoftheLordJesuskindleintoagloriousblaze,inthisordinance.

WouldyouseealivelyexhibitionofacrucifiedSavior?ThengototheLord'stable;sitdownthereandmeditateonhisdeath,hisdying love, his glorious atonement; so will you grow in grace,and in the knowledge of ourLord and Savior JesusChrist. Tohimbeglorybothnowandforever.Amen.

How highly should we esteem our divine Savior. With whatentire confidence shouldwe rely onhim for salvation!BlessedJesus!Youarethesourceofallhappiness-thespringofalljoy.You are all in all to your people. O satisfy me with yourgoodness, that I also may rejoice in your precious salvation."Rememberme,OLord,withthefavorthatyoubearuntoyourpeople;visitmewithyoursalvation."Refreshmysoul,blessedLord,withthemanifestationofyourgrace,andpreparemeforbeholdingyourglory inheaven- for enjoyingendlesspleasuresatyourrighthand.

Mayweallbedailyfeedingbyfaith,onChristandhimcrucified,whilewesojournasstrangersandpilgrimshere,untilwe"enterinthroughthegatesintothecity,"sitdownbeneaththeshadowofthetreeoflife,feeduponthehiddenmanna,anddrinkofthe"pureriverofwaterof life,clearascrystal, thatproceedoutofthethroneofGodandoftheLamb."

InalittlewhileweshallseeourRedeemer'sface,andhisnameshall be upon our foreheads. We shall soon see a crucifiedChrist-theprintofthenails,andofthewoundinhisside.HowlovelyandattractivewillChristappearinglory,asourcrucifiedSavior!Whenwelookonhisdearwoundsandbleedingside,oursoulswillbe lost inwonder, love,andpraise.Thenweshallbefilled with his goodness, and taste through eternal ages the

sweetnessofredeeming love.Amen.EvensocomeLordJesus.Comequickly!

CHRISTANDHIMCRUCIFIED,THEONLYHOPEOFTHESINNER

"TheLordJesusChrist,whoisourhope."1Timothy1:1

"Forotherfoundationcannomanlaythanthatislaid,whichisJesusChrist."1Cor.3:11

"OThoudear,anointedJesus,Allmyhopesarefixedonthee;Inyourtender,sweetcompassion,Castasmileofloveonme.Comeinallyourfullsalvation,Deignwithinmyhearttodwell;Then,withallyourransomedpeople,OfunboundedloveI'lltell.Fillmysoulwithheavenlygraces,Gentlyfallingfromabove;Meekness,patience,pureaffection.Sweethumilityandlove.

Come,ohblestanointedSavior,Toyourearthlytemplecome;TillthehourofdeathremovemeTomyeverlastinghome."

Christandhimcrucified,istheonlyhopeofthesinner.Hereisthe only substantial, permanent foundation of all our hopes."Forotherfoundationcannomanlaythanthatislaid,whichisJesusChrist."AcrucifiedChrististheonlyhopeoftheworld.Invaindowehope forsalvation fromanyothersource. "Truly in

vain is salvation hoped for from the hills, and from themultitude of mountains: truly in the Lord our God is thesalvationofIsrael."

TheLordaloneisthesalvationandstrengthofhispeople.TheChristian boldly exclaims, "The Lord is my light and mysalvation;whomshallIfear?theLordisthestrengthofmylife;ofwhomshallIbeafraid?"Thereisbutonerefugeprovidedfora lost world. That refuge is Christ crucified. It is a "strongrefuge.""ThenameoftheLordisastrongtower:therighteousrunintoitandaresafe."

NonearesafeoutsideofChrist.He is theonlyrefuge fromthestormsofdivinewraththatwillonedaysweepawaytheungodlyworld."Buttothepoor,OLord,youarearefugefromthestorm.Totheneedyindistress,youareashelterfromtherainandtheheat.Fortheoppressiveactsofruthlesspeoplearelikeastormbeatingagainstawall."Christwillshieldallwhocometohim.Nosinnereverperishedthat"fledforrefugetolayholduponthehopesetbeforeus."

InthearmsofChrist,wearesafefortime-andsafeforeternity.AnalmightySaviorhassaidconcerninghischosenflock,"Igiveuntothemeternallife;andtheyshallneverperish,neithershallanypluckthemoutofmyhand."Whatablessedarkofsafetyforperishingsinners!Christandhimcrucified!Happytheywhoareenclosed in this new testament ark! They will survive everystorm,andamidthewreckofacrumblingworld,ridesafelyandtriumphantly into the harbor of immortal glory! Happy theywhose livesarehiddenwithChrist inGod;whenChristwho istheirlifeshallappear,theyshallappearwithhiminglory."Yes,happyare thosewhohave it like this!Happy indeedare thosewhoseGodistheLord."

"Sinners,seethearkprepared!Hastetoenterwhilethere'sroom;ThoughtheLordhisarmhasbared,

Mercystillretardsyourdoom.Seekhimwhilethereyetishope,Erethedayofgracebelost,Lestinwrathhegiveyouup,Andthiscallshallproveyourlast."

Flee to the ark of safety; hide inChrist. Listen to the graciouscallsof youronlySavior.Hearhimcry, "Hide yourselves for alittlewhile,untilhiswrathhaspassedby."Comewithoutdelay.YourSaviorwillnotrejectyou.Hewillreceiveyouintohisarms,adoptyou intohis family,andmakeyouanheirofGod,andajoint-heirwithhim inglory.O,blessedprivilege, to reignwithChrist in glory!Accept, then, of a crucifiedSavior, andheavenwillbeyoureverlastinghome.YouwillsoonlandonthepeacefulshoresofImmanuel's land;soonbeadmittedintothepresenceofChrist,tosingthesongofMosesandtheLamb.

If Christ is your only hope here, he will be your everlastingportion hereafter. If you glorify him on earth, you shall enjoyhiminheaven.IfyoufollowtheLambnow,hewillleadyouuntoliving fountains ofwaters, in that "land of pure delight,wheresaintsimmortalreign."Youwillbehappyinhisservicethroughtime,andblissful inhispresencethrougheternity.IfyouronlyhopeistheLordJesus,he,asthecaptainofyoursalvation,willleadyouintothepromisedland.Obesuretoenlistinthecauseof your crucified Redeemer. Choose him as your only leader.Standbeneaththegloriousbannerofhislove.Followhimontovictory. "Fight the good fight of faith, layholdon eternal life,"andyouwillcomeoffat lastmore thanconqueror throughthebloodoftheLamb.

Go forward, then, in the strength of your Redeemer. SaywiththePsalmist, "Iwill go in the strength of the LordGod; Iwillmakementionofyourrighteousness,evenofyoursonly."Viewthe glorious prize offered to believers in Jesus! An unfadingwreathofglory!Aroyaldiademofbeauty!Akingdomthatwillnever end. The inheritance of all things! "He that overcomes

shallinheritallthings;andIwillbehisGod,andheshallbemyson.""AllwhoarevictoriouswillbecomepillarsintheTempleofmyGod,andtheywillneverhavetoleaveit.AndIwillwritemyGod'snameonthem,andtheywillbecitizensinthecityofmyGod—thenewJerusalemthatcomesdownfromheavenfrommyGod. And theywill havemy new name inscribed upon them."Hereisallthehappinessofheavensummedupinafewwords.But who can declare their import? Who can express theblessednessofbeinginChrist;ofrestingourhopesonhim?

Eye has net seen it, nor has the ear heard it; neither has itentered into the heart of man. All this glory is obtained bybelievingonacrucifiedJesus.IsChristformedinyou,"thehopeofglory."There isbutoneroadtoheaven; thatway is throughChristandhimcrucified.Alltheredeemedingloryhavetraveledthisroad.Allwhowilleveryetenter in throughthegates, intothenewJerusalem,willbeadmittedonlythroughthemeritsofacrucified Savior. Theymust depend on him. There is no otherfoundationonwhichtorest.Christistheway–theonlywaytotheFather,andtoaglorious immortality. "Iamtheway,"saysChrist, "and the truth, and the life; no man comes unto theFather, but by me." "Yes, I am the gate. Those who come inthroughmewillbesaved.Wherevertheygo,theywillfindgreenpastures."

ThereisnosalvationwithoutChrist.Thereisnoothernamebuthisthatcansavefrometernalwoe."Thereissalvationinnooneelse!Thereisnoothernameinallofheavenforpeopletocallonto save them." In the gospel fabric, Christ is the chief corner-stone.Inhimis fulfilled,"Iamplacingastone inJerusalem,achosencornerstone,andanyonewhobelievesinhimwillneverbedisappointed."JesusChrist is thatpreciouscorner-stone onwhich the Church is built. "The stone rejected by the buildershasnowbecomethecornerstone."

Fix your hopes on Christ and him crucified. Commit yourimmortal concerns into the hands of a bleeding Savior, and

heavenisyours.Come,andentrustyourwholesalvationtoHim,whoistheonlyhopesetbeforeyouinthegloriousgospel.Flyforrefuge to Him. Christ will receive you joyfully. Hear his owngraciouslanguage."AllthattheFathergivestome,shallcometome; and him that comes tome I will never cast out." Blessedwords!Whatcanbemoreencouraging.

Despairing sinner, here is hope for you. A crucified Savior islifteduponthepoleoftheeverlastinggospel,thatyoumayviewhimandlive.Areyoudrawntohimyet?ThedyingSaviorcries,"AndI, if Ibe liftedup fromtheearth,willdrawallmenuntomyself." Jesus Christ is elevated on the cross that a diseaseddyingworldmaygetaglimpseofhimandlive.Heistheworld'sRedeemer. He is the sinner's friend- his last and only hope.Rejectnotthisonlyrefuge.Hereishopeforthevilestofsinners.Christcametosavesuch."Ihavenotcometocalltherighteous,but sinners to repentance." "Oh, had I ten thousand souls, Iwould, at thismoment, cast them all into his hands, with theutmostconfidence."(Simpson)

"Tell me," says an eloquent living writer (Gardiner Spring),"where the vilest sinner is to be found that dwells on God'sfootstool; conduct me to his abode of wickedness and gloom;andifitbeanywherethissidethegrave,IwouldassurehiminGod'sname, thathewhowas liftedup from theearth came tosave just such sinners as he. Whoever believes on a crucifiedRedeemer shall be saved. This is the cheering language ofinspiration. "AsMoses lifted up the serpent in thewilderness,evensomusttheSonofManbeliftedup;thatwhoeverbelievesinhimshouldnotperish,buthaveeternallife."Thenletalllookto the cross of Christ. Let all contemplate the Son of Godbleedingfortheirsins.LetalllooktoJesus,andlive.

"AstheserpentraisedbyMosesHealedtheburningserpent'sbite,Jesusthushimselfdiscloses,Tothewoundedsinner'ssight;

Hearhisgraciousinvitation,Ihavelifeandpeacetogive,Ihavewroughtoutfullsalvation,Sinner,looktomeandlive.Poreuponyoursinsnolonger,WellIknowtheirmightyguilt;ButmylovethandeathisstrongerImybloodhavefreelyspilt;Thoughyourhearthaslongbeenhardened,Lookonme-itsoftshallgrow;Pasttransgressionsshallbepardoned,AndI'llwashyouwhiteassnow.IhaveseenwhatyouweredoingThoughyoulittlethoughtofme;Youweremadlybentonruin,ButIsaid,itshallnotbe;Youhadbeenforeverwretched,HadInotespousedyourpart;Nowbeholdmyarmsoutstretched,Toreceiveyoutomyheart.Wellmayshame,andjoyandwonder,Allyourinwardpassionsmove;IcouldcrushyouwithmythunderButIspeaktoyouinlove!See!yoursinsareallforgiven,Ihavepaidthecountlesssum!Nowmydeathhasopenedheaven,Thitheryoushallshortlycome.DearestSavior,weadorethee,ForyourpreciouslifeanddeathMelteachstubbornheartbeforethee,Giveusalltheeyeoffaith;Fromthelaw'scondemningsentence,Toyourmercyweappeal.Youalonecangiverepentance,Youaloneoursoulscanheal."

"Andnow,Lord,whatwaitIfor?Myhopeisinyou.""TheLordismyportion,saysmysoul;thereforewillIhopeinhim."Isthisthe language of your soul? Do you hope in Jesus? Is he yourunfailing portion? Then rejoice in the Lord.Make his gloriousnameknowntoadyingworld. "In thatwonderfuldayyouwillsing:"ThanktheLord!Praisehisname!Telltheworldwhathehas done. Oh, howmighty he is! Sing to the Lord, for he hasdone wonderful things. Make known his praise around theworld.LetallthepeopleofJerusalemshouthispraisewithjoy!ForgreatistheHolyOneofIsraelwholivesamongyou."

BlessedJesus!enableustorelyonyouasouronlyhope.Openoureyesthatwemaydiscernyourbeautyandexcellence.Beourhidingplacetowhichwemayresortforsafety.Maysinnersfleetoyoubeforethestormarisestooverwhelmaguiltyworld.

"Lord,opensinner'seyes,Theirawfulstatetosee,Andmakethem,erethestormarise,Toyouforsafetyflee."

"Turn to thestrong,youprisonersofhope."Jesus iswilling toencircleyouisthearmsofhisprotectionandlove.Thenturntohim,Christandhimcrucifiedisthesinner's"stronghold."Hereall are safe. All who now rest in Jesus shall enjoy eternal resthereafter.BlessedLord!leadmetotheRockthatishigherthanI.MayallmyhopesbeinJesus,thesinner'sFriend.Mayhebemade unto me wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctificationand redemption. "The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and mysavior;myGodismyrock,inwhomIfindprotection.Heismyshield,thestrengthofmysalvation,andmystronghold."

Look to Jesus for wisdom to lead you safely through a dark,bewildering world of sin and folly, to the bright mansions ofeternal glory. Lean on him for support, while you journeythrough the wilderness. Let him be always the beloved of oursoul;always"thechiefamongtenthousand"inyourestimation;

yesalwaystheonealtogetherlovelyOne.

LooktoacrucifiedJesus forrighteousness.Heonlycanclothetheguilty,pollutedsinnerwiththebeautifulrobesofredeemingrighteousness- with the spotless garments of salvation. Everyredeemedsinneringlorymustbecladwiththeradiantvestureof a Savior's righteousness. This alone will make us appearbeautifulintheeyesofJehovah.Thisalonewillplaceusbeforehisthrone,amidthegloriesofheaven.BlessedrighteousnessofthecrucifiedJesus!Whatglorydoesitbringtolostman!Then,with Paul, desire to "be found in Christ, not having your ownrighteousness,whichisofthelaw,butthatwhichisthroughthefaithofChrist,therighteousnesswhichisofGodbyfaith."

LooktoJesusforsanctification.Withoutholinessnomanshallsee theLord.Thepure inheart shall seeGod. Jesuswillwashevery filthy, unclean soul that flies to him, in his own divineblood,andmakethatsinfulsoulshinewithunsulliedpurityandperfectholinessthroughheaven'seternalday.

LooktoChristcrucifiedforredemption.Trustinnoother.Hopeinnoother.Christistheredemptionofhispeople.Theylooktohim,andaresaved.Hehasboughtthemwithhispreciousblood.He has prepared them for glory. Through his all-atoningsacrifice,theyshall"eatofthetreeoflife,whichisinthemidstoftheparadiseofGod,"andbecrownedwitheverlastingbliss.

O embrace a crucifiedSavior and rest onhim in all his savingoffices.TakehimasyourProphet,PriestandKing.ThushewillbeyourcompleteSavior;yourallinall.

Thepiousauthorofthe'ChristianRetirement',hasthefollowingbeautiful remarks: "Christ is the salvation of all his dear,believingpeople;theylooktonoother;theylovenoother;or,ifthey loveothers, it isChrist in themwho is the chief object oftheir affection. Here I behold a way of access opened to poorperishingsinners,throughfaithintheatonementofJesus.Lord,

give me faith in your dear Son. Enable me to cast my soulwithoutreserveuponyourcovenantedmercies inChristJesus.Inhimaloneiseternallife.Inhimalonearetreasuredupgrace,mercy,andpeace.HethathastheSon,haslife;forthisiseternallife,toknowyou,theonlytrueGod,andJesusChristwhomyouhavesent.Ohforahearttobelieveuntorighteousness!BlessedLord,thisheartyouonlycanbestow.Youknowmywickednessandwretchedness;myfrailtiesandfollies;myhelplessnessandtotalalienationofheartfromyou.YouknowfromwhatheightofhappinessIhavefallenthroughoriginalsin,andintowhatdepthofmisery I amplunged throughwillful transgression. But,Ohsovereign love! Oh!matchless grace! You have pitiedme; youhavesentyourSon,youronlySon,tosaveme.Youhaveassuredme that all who believe in him shall not perish, but haveeverlastinglife."

In aword, look to Jesus as the great Physician of our sin-sicksoul.Heonlycancureyouofallyourspiritualmaladies.Heonlycan clothe youwith immortal health, and angelic vigor in theworldofglory.CometoHim,andyoushalldrinkofthehealingwatersoflife,andeternallybloomintheparadiseofGod.

"Howlostwasmycondition,TillJesusmademewhole!ThereisbutonephysicianCancureasin-sicksoul!Nextdoortodeathhefoundme,Andsnatchedmefromthegrave;Totelltoallaroundme,Hiswondrouspowertosave.TheworstofalldiseasesIslight,comparedwithsin;Oneverypartitgazes,Butragesmostwithin.'Tispalsy,plagueandfever,Andmadness-allcombined,Andnonebutabeliever,

Theleastreliefcanfind.Frommengreatskillprofessing,Ithoughtacuretogain;Butthisprovedmoredistressing,andaddedtomypain.Somesaidthatnothingailedme,Somegavemeupforlost;ThuseveryrefugefailedmeAndallmyhopeswerecrossed.Atlengththisgreatphysician,Howmatchlessishisgrace!Acceptedmypetition,Andundertookmycase.Firstgavemesighttoviewhim,Forsinmyeyeshadsealed;Thenbidmelookuntohim;Ilooked,andIwashealed.Adying,risenJesus,Seenbytheeyeoffaith;Atoncefromdangerfreesus,Andsavesthesoulfromdeath.ComethentothisPhysician,Hishelphe'llfreelygive,Hemakesnohardcondition,'Tisonly,lookandlive."

THE CROSS OF CHRIST, THE GLORY OF THECHRISTIAN

"Asforme,GodforbidthatIshouldboastaboutanythingexceptthe cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, myinterest inthisworlddied longago,andtheworld's interest inmeisalsolongdead."Galatians6:14

"WellmayIgloryinhiscross,Whilehepreparesmycrown."

What wonders are manifested in the Cross of Christ! Whatfountains of joy does it uncover for the thirsty sinner! Whatoceansofdivinegracedoesitrevealtotheaspiringsaint!Whatgloriesdoesitunfoldtotheransomedbeliever!ItisthepowerofGod,andthewisdomofGod,andthesalvationofthesoul.HowitdisplaysthegraceofourLordJesusChristtopoor,perishingsinners!O boundless grace, that pitied uswhen lost! and thatrescued us from everlasting burnings! The cross of Christmanifests the free, sovereign, matchless love of God to a lostworld.

"Howfreethelove,howrichthegrace,ApardoningGodbestows;ToAdam'svile,apostaterace,Inboundlesssteamsitflows.WhatjoyarisesintheheartWhenJesus'crossappearsSalvationtomysoulimpart,Subduemyguiltyfears.BlessedSavior,speakthehealingword,Bidallmysorrowscease;Oh,bemyGreatAtoningLord,MyRighteousnessandPeace."

What joys flow from the Savior's cross! It is the sight of thatcross, which enables the sinner to read his title clear to agloriousimmortality.ThecrossofChristisfullofrich,heavenlyblessing.Thepardonofsin,thejustificationofourpersons,thesanctification of our natures, eternal life, immortal glory, theendless enjoyment of a triuneGod in heaven, are some of theblessingswhichitcontains.

Omysoul,pantaftertheseblessingssofullytreasuredupinthecrossofChrist, and so freely offered to dying sinners.Reader,come to the cross, and these blessings will descend on yourhead.YouwillthentasteofthefountainsofblissinImmanuel'sland, and bathe in the rivers of pleasureswhich eternally flow

throughtherealmsofglory.

"Othesweetwondersofthatcross,WhereChristmySaviorlovedanddied,Hernoblestlifemyspiritdraws,Fromhisdearwoundsandbleedingside."

Herewehavetheinfinitelytenderlove,theimmenselyfree,richgraceof thebleeding,dying Immanuel.Whata sweet topic forcontemplation!What a noble theme for the Christian to boastin!WellmightthegreatApostleoftheGentilesexclaim,"Asforme, God forbid that I should boast about anything except thecrossofourLordJesusChrist.Becauseofthatcross,myinterestinthisworlddiedlongago,andtheworld'sinterestinmeisalsolongdead."

In the Scriptures the cross of Christ is used in three differentsenses.1. It denotes the timber towhich ourLordwasnailed, and onwhichheexpired."Heenduredthecross,despisingtheshame.""Hebecameobedientuntodeath,even thedeathof thecross.""The punishment of the cross was a Roman invention. It wasmade use of only in the case of slaves, notoriousmalefactors.Thecrosswasmadeoftwobeamsofwoodcrossingeachother.Itwaslaidonthegroundandthecriminalstretcheduponit.Anailwasdriven througheachhand, andonenail throughboththefeet.Itwasthenliftedupright,andletfallintoahole,whereitwaswedgedin.Thecrucifiedmanwasthenlefttodie,hangingby his hands and feet. This was the death to which Jesusstooped.Ohowamazingwas that condescensionofGod'sownSon,which brought him from a glorious throne to a sufferingCross!Amazingcondescensionindeed!O,howbrightlydidthatwonderfulloveoftheblessedSaviorblazeonCalvary,whenheso cheerfully endured the death of the cross there for ussinners."

2. It denotes the way of salvation through Christ and him

crucified."Iknowverywellhowfoolishthemessageofthecrosssoundstothosewhoareontheroadtodestruction.ButwewhoarebeingsavedrecognizethismessageastheverypowerofGod.So when we preach that Christ was crucified, the Jews areoffended, and the Gentiles say it's all nonsense. But to thosecalledbyGodtosalvation,bothJewsandGentiles,ChrististhemightypowerofGodandthewonderfulwisdomofGod."

3. It is used to denote the sufferings endured in following acrucifiedSavior. "If anymanwill come afterme, let himdenyhimself and take up his cross and follow me." It was in theAtonementofJesusmadeonthecrossthattheApostlegloried.This furnishes the ground of the Christian's triumph. Thisendears the cross to his soul. This makes the sufferings ofCalvary appear so glorious in his eye. It was the glorious,finishedworkofacrucifiedRedeemerontheignominiouscross,thatdrew from theApostle's lips, this exulting language: "Godforbid that I should boast save in the cross of our Lord JesusChrist."By thecrossofChrist, isheremeant thewholeof thatsublime scheme of redemption executed on Calvary, by thedeathoftheSonofGod.

ToPaulthiswasallabsorbingtopic-hischosenfavoritetheme.Onthisadamantinefoundation,hebuilthishopesforeternity.Thiswastheblessedsourceofallhisjoy–thesublimecauseofallhisboasting.Hegloriedinnothingelse.Atall times,andineveryplacehevisited,PaulgloriedinChristandhimcrucified.AmongJewsandGreeks,BarbariansandScythians,thelearnedand the illiterate, this was his delightful theme; in this heexulted.FromthetopofMarsHill,hewavedthebannerofthecross over the proud city of Athens. Nothing could cool thefervorofPaul'sattachmenttothecrossofChrist.

"The sacred flame thatwas kindled on his way toDamascus,"says the eloquent Gardiner Spring, "burned brighter andbrighter, through darkness, through trial, through the floodsand through the flames, until it rose pure from the scaffold

wherehereceivedthemartyr'scrown,andfromwherehisspiritascendedtoreceivethecrownthatfadesnotaway."

O that every readerwould imbibe the spirit ofPaul, andboastonlyinthecrossofChrist!ThecrossofChrististheChristian'sboast. In every age this has beenhis song.Every true believergloriesinChristandhimcrucified.Arayofheavenlylightfromthecrossbeamsonhissoul, fillingitwith joyunspeakableandfull of glory; enablinghim to sing in thewaysof theLord andboastintherockofhissalvation.Heseesthemoralgrandeurofthecross;itsattractiveness;itsdazzlingglory.Heisthusledtoplace all his hopes in the cross of theMan of Calvary, and toglory,beforeanungodlyworld, inthatatonementmadebythebloodofJesus.

Allhishopesofeternalfelicityinheaven,springfromthecrossofChrist.Nowonderthen,thatheshouldextolthatSaviorwhodied to save him, and celebrate that wondrous work whichprocuresforhimendlessbliss.

'TisJesusdiedtosave,'TisJesuslivestobless;Onhighhedwells-thesinner'sfriend,TheLord,ourrighteousness.Then,Ohmysoul,rejoice,ExtolyourSavior'sname;Makementionofhisdyinglove,Andcelebratehisfame.Heclaimsyourheart,yourlove;Heclaimsyouforhisown;OhcastyourselfinwillingbondsBeforehisheavenlythrone.

It is through a saving interest in the cross of Christ, that theChristian is enabled to reach the peaceful shores of a happyeternity. Well may he be enraptured with such a theme; wellmayheboastinsuchacross!Notoneblessingflowstohimbut

what comes from the cross of Jesus. How innumerable, howinvaluablethenaretheblessingswhichproceedfromthecrossofChrist!Time cannotunfold them.Eternitywill roll away, intelling their numbers, and in revealing their preciousness. Inheaven, we will clearly see howmuch we owe to the cross ofChrist. There, we shall rejoice through a blessed eternity incontemplating the wonders of the cross– in meditating onredemption'sgloriouswork.

O my soul, boast in the cross of Christ now. Rejoice in thefinishedworkoftheLordJesus."Hethatglories, lethimboastintheLord."LethimboastinacrucifiedSavior-inhisatoningblood- in his perfect righteousness- in his vicarious death andjoyfulresurrection-inhistriumphantascensiontoglory-inhiscontinual intercession at God's right hand for sinners. Let theChristianboastinthatcrosswhichhasopenedforhimthegatesofheaven,andwhichwillseathimamidtheambrosialbowersofparadise, where he shall be perpetually fanned with the cool,balmy breezes of Immanuel's land, and enjoy sweet eternalcommunionwithGodandtheLamb.

Blessedcrossthatcrownsthesinnerwithsuchbliss!Whowouldnotboast in such a theme?Letme exhort the followers of theLamb to boast in the cross ofChrist. Let themboast inChristand him crucified. "In the Lord shall all the seed of Israel bejustified, and shall boast." "Let all those thatput their trust inyourejoice; letthemevershoutfor joy; letthosealsowholoveyournamebejoyfulinyou.""Letthesaintsbejoyfulinglory;letthemsingaloudupontheirbeds."

Oh!howoftenhas the cross inspired theChristianwithbrightheavenlyhopes, firedhissoulwitha foretasteofcelestialbliss,and caused his heart to shout for joy amid the sufferings ofmortality. There is nothing so animating to the Christian as asight of Calvary.Howdespicable does theworld appear in hisview, when he obtains a glimpse of that cross on which hisSaviordied!Everythingelselosesits lusterwhen,bytheeyeof

faith,thecrossofChristisseen.Haveyouseenthegloryofthecross of a crucified Jesus? Have you come within sight ofCalvaryandseenthebloodstreamingfromImmanuel'sveinstowashawayyoursins,andsaveyoursoul?Areyoudelightedwiththiswayofsalvation?DoesthecrossofChristfillyouwithjoy?Haveyouseenitsattractions?Thenboastinit.

Amidallthevariedscenesoflife-inprosperityandadversity,inhealthandsickness, in lifeanddeath, thecrossofChrist is theChristian's boast. Sooner would the children of God lay downtheir lives than cease to boast in this blessed theme.And theyhavedoneso,inthousandsofinstances.Fortheirattachmenttothe cross, "they loved not their lives unto death." How thosenoble martyrs whose souls ascended to glory amid billows offlameandsmoke,lovedthecross!Howtheygloriedinit.Fromthedreadfulflamesofpersecution,manyashoutwasheardonhigh, "God forbid that I should boast, save in the cross of ourLordJesusChrist."

In the bloody days of suffering and death, the martyr's dyingsong at the burning stake has been, "Welcome the cross ofChrist!WelcomethecrossofChrist!Welcome lifeeverlasting."ThussweetlysungthedyingSaunders,ashekissedthestakeatwhichhewasbound.LetthecrossofChristalsobeyourboast.RejoiceinJesus,yourSavior."AlwaysbefullofjoyintheLord.Isay it again—rejoice!" LetChrist andhis gloriouswork for thesalvation of sinners, be your song in the house of yourpilgrimage; and when earth, with all it's fascinating pleasuresshallhavepassedawaylikeadream,youwillrejoiceinGod,inyour Savior, through the rolling ages of a blessed eternity.Standingon"thecrystalseaofglass"beforetheeternalthroneofheaven,youwillraiseanever-endingsongofpraisetoHimwhositsuponthethrone;whosebloodredeemedyoutoGod,andinwhosecrossyougloriedonearth.

BlessedJesus!enableeachreadertoboastinyourcross.Giveusallheartsof faith to receiveandrestuponyou.Maywerealize

yourpreciousness.May yourdeathbeour life; your cross, ourboast.Refreshoursoulswiththeprovisionsofthecross.Crownour heads with its blessings. Lead us through the "greenpastures" and "still waters" of divine grace, and when ourpilgrimageonearthisended,whenlife'sshorttaleistold,bringus to that blessed home in the world of glory, which is thepurchaseofyourcross.

"Beholdmeatthebleedingcross;Washout,dearLord,eachguiltystain,Oh,mayIcounttheworldbutlossYourlovemygreat,myrichestgain."

For thenumberlessbenefitsandblessings,hederives fromthecrossofalovingSavior,theChristianhasgreatreasontoboastin it. It is "the tree of life" to the believing soul. Its fruit isspiritual and divine. Those who taste it, never hunger, neverthirst, never die. The blessings which hang clustering on thistree of life are innumerable. Eternity alone can unfold them.Herewetastebutdropsfromthefountainheadabove;thereweshallforeverdrinkofthewateroflifeintheparadiseofGod.InheavenweshallenjoyalltheblessingsofthecrossofJesus;andthereweshalleternallyboastinit.Afewoftheserichblessingswenowselect–1. THE PARDON OF SIN. This is one of the blessings of thecross. The pardon of all our sins, original and actual, wasobtained by the death of Christ. "Through thisman (though acrucifiedSavior) ispreacheduntoyou the forgivenessof sins."There is no remission of sins but through the cross of Christ.This expiates our guilt, and sets us free. Here God, in hisunbounded love, removesour transgressions fromus,as farasthecastisfromthewest.Herehespeaksinmercifultonestothesinner. This is his comfortable language through the cross ofJesus: "Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord. Nomatter howdeep the stain of your sins, I can remove it. I canmakeyouascleanasfreshlyfallensnow.Evenifyouarestainedasredascrimson,Icanmakeyouaswhiteaswool."

Throughthebloodofthecross,pardonflowstoarebelworld.Oto have a saving interest in that cross which confers such aninvaluable blessing upon our sinful race! Well may redeemedsinnersboastinsalvationbyJesus."Omysoul,myguiltysoul,whatareallthekingdomsoftheworld,andthegloriesofthem,comparedwiththisineffableblessing!"

2. The cross of Christ PROCURES OUR JUSTIFICATION,RECONCILES US TO GOD, AND CLOTHES US WITH THEROBESOFRIGHTEOUSNESS.ThecrossofChrist justifiestheungodly.Thesinnerisacceptedinthebeloved."Byhimallwhobelievearejustifiedfromallthings,fromwhichyoucouldnotbejustifiedbythelawofMoses."ThecrossofChristprocuresourpeacewithGod."Whenwewereenemies,wewerereconciledtoGodbythedeathofhisSon."Hehasmade"peacethroughtheblood of his cross." Through the cross of Jesus we enjoy thefavorofagraciousGod,whichisbetterthanlife.

BythecrossofChrist,theworldisreconciledtoGod.NowonderthenthattheatoningsacrificeofacrucifiedSavior,shouldbeallour boast. Nowonder that we should "rejoice in God throughour Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received theatonement."ThecrossofChristinveststhesinnerwitharobeofpurity, the spotless righteousness of Immanuel. All theredeemed in glory have washed their robes and made themwhiteinthebloodoftheLamb.Inheavenallarebeautifiedwiththe wedding garment. The righteousness of a crucified Jesuscoversall.

"That righteousness," says the piousDoddridge, "to which, onbelievingonhim,youwillbeentitled,shallnotonlybreakthosechains by which sin is, as it were, dragging you at its chariotwheelswithafuriouspace,toeternalruin,butitshallclotheyouwith the robes of salvation; shall fix you on a throne of glory,where you shall live and reign forever among the princes ofheaven; shall reign in immortal beauty and joy; without one

remaining scar of divine displeasure upon you; without anysinglemarkbywhichitcouldbeknownthatyouhadeverbeenobnoxioustowrathandacurse,exceptitbeananthemofpraiseto"theLambthatwasslain,andhaswashedyoufromyoursinsinhisownblood.''Wellmayweboastinthecrossonaccountofitsrighteousness.

3. The cross of Christ DELIVERS US FROM THIS PRESENTEVILWORLD."Asforme,GodforbidthatIshouldboastaboutanythingexcept the crossofourLordJesusChrist.Becauseofthat cross, my interest in this world died long ago, and theworld'sinterestinmeisalsolongdead.""AsightofJesusonthecross,Makesallthisworldappearasdross."

TheChristianlooksbeyondthisdyingworldtohiseternalhomein glory. The cross of Jesus enables him to soar on high, andleavetheworldbehindhim.Helooksforwardtotheglorythatistoberevealedinhim.Hesetshisaffectionsonthingsabove.Oh,keep gazing on a crucified Savior, and the world will lose itscharms. "Be of good cheer," says Christ, "I have overcome theworld."Wealsoshallovercomeit,throughhiscross.Itisasightof thecrossofChrist thatweans theaffections fromsublunaryobjects,andcentersthemonheavenlyanddivinethings.Inthiswickedworld, theChristianthirsts forGod,andpants toreachthe mansions of glory. The language of his heart in thiswildernessisthusbeautifullyexpressedbythepoet–

"Ithirst,butnotasonceIdid,Thevaindelightsofearthtoshare;YourwoundsImmanuel,allforbid,ThatIshouldseekmypleasurehere.Itwasthesightofyourdearcross,Firstweanedmysoulfromearthlythings,Andtaughtmetoesteemasdross,Themirthoffools,andpompofkings.Iwantthatgracethatspringsfromyou,

Thatquickensallthingswhereitflows;Andmadeawretchedthorn,likeme,Bloomasthemyrtle,ortherose.Dearfountainofdelightunknown!Nolongersinkbelowthebrim;Butoverflow,andpourmedownAliving,andlife-givingstream!"

4.AnotherblessingofthecrossofChrististheVICTORYOVERDEATHANDTHEGLOOMYGRAVE.Death is the last enemythat the Christian has to encounter. But the cross of Christcrownshimwithcompletevictory.Itdisarmsdeathofitssting,and the grave of its terrors.When the swellings of Jordan rolloverthebeliever'ssoul, thecrossofChristsustainshim.Whenamidthegloomanddarknessofdeath,acelestialbeamfromthecross of Christ often shines to guide the Christian pilgrimthrough the "valley and shadow of death," and to cheer hisdrooping soul with a prospect of the glories of the heavenlyCanaan.Thebeliever is thenenabled toexclaim,"EvenwhenIwalk through the dark valley of death, Iwill not be afraid, foryou are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect andcomfortme."

ItisthecrossofChristthatputsthissonginthebeliever'slips.ItisJesus,thesinner'sFriend,thatsmoothesthepassagetothetomb- to the realms of everlasting day. Precious, crucifiedSavior!

"Jesuscanmakeadyingbed,Feelsoftasdownypillowsare.WhileonhisbreastIleanmyhead,Andbreathemylifeoutsweetlythere."

ThecrossofChristenables thedyingChristian tocomeoff thestageofmortalconflict,shoutingwithPayson,"Victory,victory!Peace,peace!"orwithSimpson,"Odeath!where isyoursting?What are you? I am not afraid of you. You are a vanquished

enemy through the blood of the cross!" The cross of Christconvertsthe'kingofterrors'intoamessengerofpeace.Nowitisgainforthebelievertodie.WhentheChristiancloseshiseyesindeath, it is only "to depart and be with Christ, which is farbetter." The cross of Christ enables the believer to finish hisChristianwarfarewiththistriumphantsong,"Odeath,whereisyoursting?Ograve,whereistryvictory?ThanksbetoGod,whogivesusthevictory,throughourLordJesusChrist!"

"Jesus,thevisionofyourface,Hasoverpoweringcharms;ScarceshallIfeeldeath'scoldembrace,IfChristbeinmyarms."

5.ThecrossofChristOPENSTHEPORTALSOFGLORYFOROURRECEPTION. It admits its into the presence of God andcrownsuswithunutterablebliss.Thereisnowaytoheavenbutthrough the cross of Christ. When the Cross of Christ waserectedonearth,thegatesofparadisewereopenedabove.Thisleads thesinner toglory.ThepreciousbloodofJesus thatwaspoured out upon the cross, is the only procuring cause ofheavenlyfelicity.Jesusdiedtomakeushappy-eternallyhappy.Thisistheblessedconsummationofallhissufferingsanddeath.This was the reason why he groaned in Gethsemane; why hebledanddiedonCalvary.Itwastomakeyoushineeternallyinmansionsofglory.This is thegranddesignof thepreachingofthecross.Itpointssinnerstoagloriousimmortality.Thisisoneof its ineffable blessings. Salvation is by the blessed cross ofChrist.

Whattonguecanexpressthefelicityoftheredeemedbeforethethrone ofGod!What heart can conceive the unspeakable blissthattheransomedsinnershallenjoy,toalleternity,throughthecrossofChrist!"Noeyehasseen,noearhasheard,andnomindhas imaginedwhatGodhasprepared for thosewho lovehim.""Inyourpresence,"criesthePsalmist,"isfullnessofjoy;atyourright hand there are pleasures for evermore."Howdifferent is

earthfromheaven!

"Heregriefs,andcares,andpains,Andfears,distressussore.Butthereeternalpleasurereigns,Andweshallweepnomore."

In heaven, the redeemed shall have fullness of joy. Whatinexpressible joymust fill their souls when they shall see theKing of Heaven in his beauty, when Jesus shall dwell amongthem forever and ever! Then shall they be ever, ever with theLord."Ihearda loudshout fromthethrone,saying, 'Look, thehomeofGod isnowamonghispeople!Hewill livewiththem,andtheywillbehispeople.Godhimselfwillbewith them.Hewillremovealloftheirsorrows,andtherewillbenomoredeathorsorroworcryingorpain.For theoldworldand itsevilsaregoneforever.'"

Eternal felicity crowns all the inhabitants of heaven. Eternalgloryshinesaroundallthemansionsoftheblessed.Thecelestialcity is illuminated by the glory of God and the Lamb. Of theglory of that heavenly city, in which the saints are to spendceaseless ages, the following livelydescription, foundedon thewordofGod, is furnishedby the immortalBunyan–"Nowjustas the gates were opened to let in the men, I looked in afterthem, and behold the city shone like the sun; the streets alsowere paved with gold, and in them walked many men withcrownsontheirheads,palms in theirhands,andgoldenharpsto sing praiseswith. Therewere also of thosewho hadwings;and they answered one another without intermission, saying,Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord. And after that, they shut up thegates;which,whenIhadseen,Iwishedmyselfamongthem."

Those happy souls, who have washed their robes, and madethem white in the blood of the Lamb, and who are on thisaccount presented faultless before the throne of God, shall"servehimdayandnightinhisTemple.Andhewhositsonthe

thronewill liveamong themandshelter them.Theywillneveragainbehungryorthirsty,andtheywillbefullyprotectedfromthescorchingnoontimeheat.FortheLambwhostandsinfrontof the thronewill be their Shepherd.Hewill lead them to thesprings of life-giving water. And God will wipe away all theirtears." Who would not glory in the cross of Christ, when itconferssomanyrich,eternalblessingsuponasinfulworld!

Inshort,alltheblessingsthatarebestowedupontheChristianinhispilgrimagethroughthewilderness,untilhecomestotheheavenlyCanaan,andall the felicityheenjoys in thatworldofglory, flowdirectly from the cross ofChrist. From the cross ofChrist, he derives ample provision by the way, and when hereachesthemansionsofglory,heeatsofthefruitofthe"treeoflife"inthemidstoftheparadiseofGod.Here,"Jesusthebreadoflifeisgiven,Tobeourdailyfood;Wedrinkawondrousstreamfromheaven,'Tiswater,wineandblood.Lord,tisenough,Iasknomore,Theseblessingsaredivine;Ienvynottheworldling'sstore,IfChristandheavenaremine."

BlessedcrossofacrucifiedSavior,thatbringssuchglorytoGod,andsuchpeaceandgood-willtoman!

Inconclusion,letmeexhortyoutoboastinthecrossofChrist,throughlifeandall itsvicissitudes;andwhenyoustandonthevergeof thegrave,whenyoufeel thechillyembraceof the lastenemy; yes, when death shall strike its darts at your vitals,adheringto thebannerof thecross,youwillbeenabledboldlyand triumphantly toexclaim, "Odeath,where is your sting?Ograve,whereisyourvictory?"

When you arise to immortality amid the chaos of a crumblingworld,whileothers, indespair,arecallinguponthemountains

andtherockstofallonthemandhidethemfromHimthatsitsonthethrone,then,dearbelieverinJesus,youwillgloryinthecrossofChrist.Asyouenteronthesaint'severlastingrest,youwill triumph in the cross of Jesus; and as you sail on thevastunboundedoceanof eternal blessedness, this shall everbe theunchanging languageofyourenrapturedsoul,"As forme,GodforbidthatIshouldboastaboutanythingexceptthecrossofourLord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in thisworlddiedlongago,andtheworld'sinterestinmeisalsolongdead."Galatians6:14

CONCLUSION.SOLEMNAPPEALTOTHEREADER

Dear reader, allow the writer, before he lays aside his pen,perhapsnever to resume it, tobeseechyou tobe reconciled toGod- to embraceChrist andHim crucified, as your only hope.Youhaveapreciousimmortalsoultobesavedorlost;asoul,thevalueofwhichexceedsinamountallthewealthoftheglobe,yesofthousandsofworlds.

The redemption of the soul is precious. "What shall it profit aman,ifheshallgainthewholeworld,andlosehisownsoul?orwhat shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" The soul isdestinedtolivethrougheternityinthebrightrealmsofeternalglory,orinthedismalregionsofeternalmiseryanddespair.Odid you ever seriously think of that solemn word, Eternity!Eternity! Forever! Forever! Think of it now. "But who canmeasure eternity? Compared with whose everlasting lines,myriads of years are infinitely less than atoms floating in themiddaysun!Allthoughtislostinitsimmensity,andswallowedupinitsfathomlessabyss."

Eternity is yours- is mine. You shall shortly enter upon aneternityofboundlessblissorunspeakablemisery.ThetrumpetofGod shall soon summon a sleepingworld to judgment. The

eternal destinies of all men shall soon be irrecoverably fixed.The righteous shall be welcomed to the kingdom of heaven,wheretheyshallshineasthesunforeverandever!ButOh!howmy soul trembles to think of the awful doom that shall bepronounced upon the wicked, on those who have rejected acrucified Savior, "Depart from me, you cursed ones, intoeverlastingfire,preparedforthedevilandhisangels."

Didyoueverask. thatdreadfulquestion,"Whoamongusshalldwell with devouring fire? who among us shall dwell witheverlasting burnings?" Of the inhabitants of the pit it is said,that "their worm does not die", and there "the fire is notquenched."But,blessedbeGod,thereisaway;theonlywaytoescapethewrathtocome.ThiswayisthroughChristandhimcrucified. "Godhasnot appointedus towrath;but toobtainsalvationbyourLordJesusChrist."ThenfleetoChrist,andyoushallbesavedwithaneverlastingsalvation.

Youhavea lovingSavior.Inhimcompassionsflow.Rest inhislove;relyonhisatonement,andgloryinhiscross.Ourpartingadvicetoyouis,totakerefugeinChristandhimCrucified;andwhenthe lastawfulstormariseshallarisetocrushanungodlyworld,itwillonwaftyouintotheharborofeternalglory.TothegraceofourLordJesusChristwecommendyou. Inhis handsweleaveyou.

MayGodgrantthatbothreaderandwritermaymeetthatworldofglory,where there isnomoresin,norsorrow,norpain,nordeath;andwhereGodshallwipeawayall tears fromour eyes.Blessedwitha saving interest inChrist andhimcrucified, andcheered with the hope of a glorious immortality, we willapproachourgravesinpeace;"Likeonethatdrawsthedraperyofhiscouchabouthim,andliesdowntopleasantdreams,"andatthat solemnperiod, the resurrectionofa sleepingworld,weshallarise inaglorious immortal form, free fromall corrodingdisease or painful death, and surrounded with the ineffablegloriesof theDeity,weshallengage in thesublimerapturesof

celestial bliss, bathe in that pure river of thewater of life thatflowsthroughtheparadiseofGod,anddrinkofthoseperennialstreamswhichissuefromthefountainoflife;whileeternalagesrollaway.

"Incheerfulhopemysoulrelies,BlessedSavior,onyourdyinglove,UntilIreachtheblissfulskies,Andstrikethegoldenharpsabove."

THESTAROFBETHLEHEM,AGUIDETOTHESAVIOR

byDavidHarsha,Argyle,NewYork;Sept.15,1863.

PREFACE

Thegranddesignofthisvolumeistoexhibit,underthebeautifulsymboloftheStarofBethlehem,theSaviorinHispersonalandmediatorialglory;andtoguidethereadertoHimastheLambofGod,whoalonecantakeawaysin.Whiledwellingonthebeauty,excellence,andamiablenessofChrist,HisgreatatoningworkonCalvary has been solicitously held forth, in its all-sufficiency,andastheonlyhopeofalostworldasbringingglorytoGodinthehighest,andonearthpeace,goodwill towardsmen. Ithasbeentheauthor'saimtopresentthesubjectinascripturalpointof view, carefully regarding the divine declaration- 'To the lawandtothetestimony:iftheyspeaknotaccordingtothisword,itis because there is no light in them.' It is believed that the

doctrines contained in the work are in accordance with theteachingsofdivine revelation;and that theywill, consequentlybe cordially received by Christians of all evangelicaldenominations- by all who love our Lord Jesus Christ insincerity.

MaytheHolySpiritbringthetruthspresentedinthefollowingpageshometotheheartofeveryreader,withsavingpower;andmake this volume, like the star of Bethlehem, the means ofguiding weary souls to the meek and lowly Savior. 'May thewordsofmymouthandthemeditationofmyheartbepleasinginYoursight,OLord,myRockandmyRedeemer.'

OYou,WhowereinBethlehemborn,TheManofSorrowsandofscorn,Jesus,thesinner'sFriend!OYou,enthronedinfilialright,Aboveallcreature-powerandmight;Whosekingdomshallextend,Untilearth,likeheaven,Yournameshallfill,Andmen,likeangels,doYourwill:You,whomIlove,butcannotsee,MyLord,myGod!lookdownonme;Mylowaffectionsraise;Thespiritoflibertyimpart,Enlargemysoul,inflamemyheart,And,whileIspreadYourpraise,Shineonmypath,inmercyshine,Prospermywork,andmakeitYour.

Chapter1:THESAVIORTHEBRIGHTANDMORNINGSTAR,THESUNOFRIGHTEOUSNESS,ANDLIGHTOF

THEWORLD.

Christ,theLamb,inradiancesitsenthroned,ThelivelyImageofHisFather'sgrace.OFloweroflove!OgloriousMorningStar!OSunofrighteousness,whosehealingwingsBroughtlife,andpeace,andmercyfromafar!FromYou,thelight,yourbeamingFountain,springs,Thatguidespoormortalsintheirwearyway,throughblackaffliction'snight,topleasure'sendlessday.JamesScott.

Life isa journey;andallmenaretravelers.Theraceofhumanexistence ismomentary; but the journey beyond the shores oftimeneverends.Inthegloriousrealmsoffelicity,orinthedarkregionsofwoe,wewillmoveonwardsthroughtheceaselessagesofeternity.Thefuturestateofmankindisvividlyrepresentedinthe Holy Scriptures; and we are there told how to gain theshoresofimmortalbliss,andtoshunthoseofunendingmisery.TheWordofGod,intheplainestterms,setsbeforeusLIFEandDEATH,andcallsuponus, in strongandpersuasive language,tochooselife;while,atthesametime, itadmonishesusofourdangerincontinuingtodisregardtheinvitationsofmercy,andlivinginrebellionagainstHeaven.Itbecomes,then,amatterofthehighestimportancehowwepassthebriefperiodallottedtousonearth;forourlifehereisonlypreparatorytoanexistenceequalwiththeagesofeternity. It isaseriousthought, that thecharacterwebearthissidethegravewewillsustainintheworldto come. 'The character fixed through life adheres to ushereafter- the moral lineaments engraven here will retain thevery same impress in our future state. There will be the

reconstruction of the body, but the spirit will be the same.'(Chalmers)

Atdeath,ourstatewillbeunalterablyfixed;-andthereisbutastepbetweenusanddeath-betweenusandthedayofjudgment.The time is just athandwhenamid the solemnitiesof the lastgreat day it shall be proclaimed from the glorious throne ofEmmanuel; 'He that is unjust, let him be unjust still; and hewhichisfilthy,lethimbefilthystill;andhethatisrighteous,lethimberighteousstill;andhethatisholy,lethimbeholystill.'

Viewedinthislighthowimportantisthejourneyofhumanlife!What weighty interests are connected with our fleetingmoments!What inexpressible joys or sorrows await us in theeternalworldastheharvestofapiousorungodlylife!'Donotbedeceived:God cannot bemocked. Aman reaps what he sows.Theonewhosowstopleasehissinfulnature, fromthatnaturewill reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit,fromtheSpiritwillreapeternallife.''Thewagesofsinisdeath,butthegiftofGodiseternallife,throughJesusChristourLord.'

Oh,howcarefullyshouldweattendtothemomentousconcernsofourimmortalsoulswhilejourneyingtothetomb-toeternity!If we neglect these concerns, or make a false step in this all-importantjourney,howfearfulwillbeourfinaldoom!Butifwewalkinthatpathwhichleadstomansionsofgloryintheskies,howblessedwill be out state through all the countless ages ofvasteternity!'Importantjourney!awfulview!Howgreatthechange!thesceneshownew!Thegoldengatesofheavendisplayed,Orhell'sfierceflames,andgloomyshade!'Awake,mysoul;yourwayprepare,Andloseinthiseachmortalcare;Withsteadyfeetthatpathbetrod,WhichthroughthegraveconductstoGod.'

With every child of earth the grand inquiry should be, Is mypathwaythroughlife irradiatedbyheavenlybeams?HaveI thelightoflife?DoIenjoythefavorofGod?HaveIknownthewayof peace? Has the day dawned, and the day-star risen in mysoul? Is the Bright Morning Star guiding me to the peacefulshoresofabetterworld-aworldofeternalpleasures-aParadiseof ineffablesplendors-akingdomofunfadingbeauty-acityofeverlasting habitation? Or, is all dark and dreary around thisearthly scene?Aredestructionandmisery inmyway? Is therenofearofGodbeforemyeyes?Ismysouloverspreadwiththegloomofsin,unbelief,andsorrow?DoI livewithoutGod,andwithouthopeintheworld?

Hereletusreflectontheconditionofman,beforespirituallightbreaksforthuponhissoul-beforeheseesbytheeyeoffaith,thebrightandmorningStarheraldingtheopeningofaneternaldayoflightandglory,andguidinghimthroughthe,nightofsinandsorrowtotherestandfelicityofheaven,tothat landwherenonatural sun shines,whose everlasting light is the glory ofGodandtheLamb.

Before conversion, man is like a traveler in a 'black and darknight,' pursuing his journey- over unknown and dangerouspaths,without a single guide to conducthim to the endof hisjourney, to thebelovedhomeofpeaceandhappiness.Like thepoorbewilderedtraveler,thesinner,inhisnaturalstate,rusheson, regardlessof the impendingdanger,over the ruinouswaysof sinand folly,withno light fromheaven topointhim to thehappyhomeofimmortalityintheskies.

OurblessedSaviorsaid, 'Hethatwalks indarkness,knowsnotwherehegoes.'Itistrulysadtoreflectonthecoursesofmaninhis unconverted state. On what a frightful precipice does hestand,readytofall intotheabyssofunendingwoe!Respectingeverysinnerreclaimedbydivinegrace,maywenotwellinquirewiththeprophet:'Isnotthisabrandpluckedoutofthefire?'

Look again at the unrenewed state ofman. It is one of fearfulmoral obscurity. It is the night of sin, in which the 'power ofdarkness' reigns with unlimited control in the heart. In thiscondition, the eye is closed in spiritual slumbers; the soul isinvolved in worse than Egyptian darkness; not a single ray ofcelestial lightshineswithin; theunderstanding isdarkened,allis impenetrable gloom. 'Having the understanding darkened,beingalienatedfromthelifeofGod,throughtheignorancethatisinthem;becauseoftheblindnessoftheirheart.' 'Theygropeinthedark,withoutlight.' 'Yes, the lightof thewickedshallbeputout,andthesparkofhisfireshallnotshine.Thelightshallbedark inhis tabernacle, andhis candle shall beputoutwithhim.'

Thesouloftheunrighteousisnotonlyinvolvedinmoralgloom,but isalsodestitute of spiritual life andaction.And in viewofthismelancholyfact,suchaoneisthusaddressedbyHimwho'holds thesevenstars inhis righthand,' andwithwhom is thefountainoflife:'Awake,youthatsleep,andarisefromthedead,andChristshallgiveyoulight.'

Themaninwhosehearttheraysofdivinetruthhaveneveryetdarted, likewise resembles themariner on a violent sea, whenthe heavens are overspread with dark, angry clouds, whenneithersunnorstarsappear,andwhenafuriousstormisreadytoburstuponhim.Howalarminghissituation!Heisviolentlytossedupontheragingsea.Theverynextwavemayoverwhelmhim. Everymoment he is in danger of being lost. Such is theconditionofthesinner-ofthemanforwhomthecrossofChristhasnoattractions.Ashesailsonlife'stroubledocean,heiseverexposed to the violent storms of divine wrath; his soul is indanger of being lost forever! 'Thewicked are like the troubledsea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast upmire and dirt.'Thereisnopeace,saysmyGod,tothewicked.'

'Sinner!rousefromyoursleep,Wake,andoveryourfollyweep;

Raiseyourspiritdarkanddead,Jesuswaitshislighttoshed.Wakefromsleep,arisefromdeath,Seethebrightandlivingpath;Watchfultreadthatpath,bewise;Leaveyourfolly,seektheskies.Leaveyourfolly,ceasefromcrime,Fromthishourredeemyourtime;Lifesecurewithoutdelay,Evilisthemortalday.Donotbeblindandfoolishstill,CalledofJesus,learnhiswill;Jesuscallsfromdeathandnight,Jesuswaitstoshedhislight.'

Having adverted to the dark side ofman'smoral condition bynature, let us now turn to the pleasing views which presentthemselves to the eye at that happy hour when the Sun ofRighteousness rises in thesoul;when, relyingonJesus for theblessings of grace and glory, the Christian pilgrim begins hisjourney to the heavenly Canaan. When the grace of God iscommunicated to the soul, a great moral transformation is atonceaccomplished-a transformationmore important than thecreationof aworld.This change is effectedby the renewingofthemindthroughthepoweroftheHolySpirit.'Notbyworksofrighteousnesswhichwehavedone,butaccording tohismercyhesavedus,bythewashingofregeneration,andrenewingoftheHolySpirit.''Betransformedbytherenewingofyourmind.'

How wonderful and mysterious this change! 'The wind blowswhere itwills, and youhear the sound thereof, but cannot tellwhereitcomes,andwhereitgoes:soiseveryonethatisbornoftheSpirit.'Hewhohasbecomethesubjectofregeneratinggrace,may truly saywith theblindmanwhomtheSaviorrestoredtosight:'OnethingIknow,thatwhereasIwasblind,nowIsee.'Hehas become a new creature in Christ- 'Old things are passedaway; behold, all things are become new.' Now is the divine

imagestampedanewinthesoul;nowdoesthetrueLightshine;now is Jesus precious. 'Unto you thereforewho believe,He isprecious.' Now does the newly regenerated man obtain aglimpseofthematchlesslove,excellency,andgloryofHimwhocamefromGod,theFriendofsinners,theManofsorrows,theimmaculate Victim of Calvary. Now is the Savior exalted farhigher inhis estimation thanany earthlyobject, so that in thestrong and beautiful language of faith he is ready to exclaim,'WhomhaveIinheavenbutyou?AndearthhasnothingIdesirebesides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is thestrength of my heart and my portion forever.' 'My beloved ismine,andIamHis.'He is 'thechiefamongtenthousand;yes,He is altogether lovely.' The desires of his soul are nowcontinuallydirectedtowardstheblessedJesus.

'ThedesireofoursoulistoYourname,andtotheremembranceofYou.WithmysoulhaveIdesiredYouinthenight;yes,withmy spirit within me will I seek You early.' The soul nowilluminated -with rays of heavenly light, is filled with joy andpeaceinbelieving;anditsprogressinthedivinelifeislikethatof the shining light, which shines more and more unto theperfect day. But look again at the lightwhich beamsupon thesoulinregeneration;andmarkthehappyeffectitproduces.Asin the creation of the natural world light was the first thingformed,sointhemoralworlditisthefirsteffectofdivinepowerin the regenerationof the soul. 'Truly the light is sweet, andapleasantthingitisfortheeyestobeholdthesun.'

What amarvelous light is unfolded to the view of him whoseheart is reached by the glorious beams of the Sun ofRighteousness!Theeyesofhisunderstandingareenlightenedtodiscern spiritual and eternal objects. To him the heavens areopened; and by the eye of faith, he beholds the King in Hisbeauty,andthegloriesof the landofpromise.Onthewingsoffaith,heisborneawaytotherealmsofday;whileearth,withitstransitoryscene,vanishesbeforehim,andvasteternity,withitsuntoldandunutterablejoys,fillshissight.Hehearsthesongsof

angels as they touch their golden harps, and sing with loudvoices-'WorthyistheLambthatwasslaintoreceivepower,andriches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, andblessing.'Hehears thesweetnotesof the redeemedbeforethethrone, as they all unite in the wondrous new song ofredemption-'UntoHimwholovedus,andwashedusfromoursins inhisownblood,andhasmadeuskingsandpriestsuntoGodandHisFather;toHimbegloryanddominionforeverandever.'

The glories of Emmanuel and the felicities of the saints'everlasting rest, are themes which daily engage the noblestpowers of his mind in holy meditation- which afford himrapturous pleasure- which fill his soul with wonder andadmiration.Heisnowaspiritually-mindedman,guidedbythestar of Bethlehem to the 'meek and lowly' Savior, risen withJesustoanewlifeofholiness,with,allhisaffectionsclusteringaround the glorified Redeemer- the Lamb in themidst of thethrone-nowbecomehis'boastthroughtime,'Yes,andhis'blissthrough eternity.' Oh, how delightful and transporting are theviewsofthesoulenlightenedbytheStarofmorning!

How widely different is the condition of man by nature andgrace! Of the latter, the Scriptures declare; 'You were oncedarkness, but now are you light in the Lord.' 'For God, whocommandedthelighttoshineoutofdarkness,hasshinedinourhearts,togivethelightoftheknowledgeofthegloryofGodinthe face of Jesus Christ.' 'But you are a chosen generation, aroyal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that youshouldshowforththepraisesofhimwhohascalledyououtofdarknessintohismarvelouslight.'Thosewhoaredeliveredfromthepowerofdarkness,andtranslatedintothekingdomofGod'sdearSon,willoftenbefavored,whileonearth,withglimpsesofheavenly glory, which may truly be called a, 'MARVELOUSLIGHT.' 'Such people,' says Leighton, 'see as it were a newworld,andinitsuchwondersoftherichgraceandloveofGod,suchmatchlessworthinJesusChrist,theSunofrighteousness,

that their souls are filled with admiration. And if this light ofgracebesomarvelous,howmuchmoremarvelousshallthelightofglorybeinwhichitends!'

Hewhohasbeenbroughtfromthedarknessofdepravednatureinto themarvelous light of divine grace, may truly say, as hegazesontherisingsplendorsoftheSunofRighteousness: 'Thedarknessispast,andthetruelightnowshines.'Yes,'Tispast-thedreadfulstormynightIsgone,withallitsfears!AndnowIseereturninglight,TheLordmySunappears.'

ThemorningStarhasnowriseninhissoul;andthisStaristheblessed Savior, whose brightness in the eye of the believereclipsesallthesplendorsofthenaturalworld;whoseglorywillbeseenandadmiredbysaintsandangelstoalleternity.

AndherewewouldmorefullycontemplatetheLordJesusinthecharacter in which He is represented in the title of thisintroductoryessay, as thebright andmorningStar, theSunofRighteousness,andLightoftheworld.ButwhocandescribeHisbeauty and excellency? Ah, what tongue can express Hismatchless loving-kindness to the sons ofmen?Oh, to bewithHim, to be like Him, to see Him as He is in His heavenlykingdom- His countenance shining as the Sun- His browencircled with 'many crowns'- His apparel all-glorious! Thenshallwebeabletocelebrateinhigher,sweetertones,thepraisesofHimwho, in unspeakable love and amazing condescension,deignedtoassumehumannature- tovisitearthwithtidingsofimmortality-topouroutHispreciousbloodonCalvaryforourredemption!

'SoonshallIpassthegloomyvalley;Soonallmymortalpowersshallfail;Oh,maymylastexpiringbreath,Hisloving-kindnesssingindeath!

ThenletmemountandsoarawayTothebrightworldofendlessday:Andsingwithraptureandsurprise,Hisloving-kindnessintheskies.

UNDER THE BEAUTIFUL EMBLEM OF A STAR IS THESAVIOR REPRESENTED IN THE SCRIPTURES. Balaam, inpropheticvision,exclaims:'ThereshallcomeaStaroutofJacob,andaSceptershallriseoutofIsrael;'andZacharias,filledwiththeHolySpirit,utterstheseglowingwordswhenheprophesiesofJesus;'Therisingsunfromonhighhasvisitedus,togivelighttothosewhositindarknessandintheshadowofdeath,toguideour feet into theway of peace.'And as illustrative of the samefigure,howbeautifulandstriking is the languageof theSaviorHimself,whenrevealingaglimpseofHisheavenlyglory to theapostle John, in the isle of Patmos: 'I am the Root and theOffspringofDavid,andthebrightMorningStar.'Andagain; 'IwillgivehimthemorningStar.'

Here our Lord and Savior not only exhibitsHis own personalexcellence-under thismostappropriatesymbol,butalsoholdsout the promise ofHimself and allHis unsearchable riches toevery one that overcomes, and keepsHisworks unto the end.Howshouldsuchagloriouspromiseconfirmour faith inGod,enlargeourdesiresafterspiritualthings,enraptureoursouls inholy thought, and make us ever grateful for those blessings,whosevalueeternityalonecanunfold!

TheSaviormaybecomparedtoastarbecauseofthelight,andgrace, and glory which are in Him; and because Hecommunicates these blessings to all that come to Him forillumination,wisdom,andinstruction.IthaspleasedtheFatherthat in Him should all fullness dwell. Grace is abundantlypouredintoHislips;andHisgloryisasoftheonlybegottenofthe Father.With Him is the fountain of life; and in His lightshallwe see light.And fromHim flow all the rich blessings ofspiritual light and life, grace and glory- 'The lawwas given by

Moses,butgraceandtruthcamebyJesusChrist.' 'ThegraceofGod which is given you by Jesus Christ.' 'The Lord will givegrace and glory.' Oh, what inestimable favors are these! Theblessings of grace here, and glory hereafter- all that the souldesiresorcancontain!

The Savior may also be represented as a star because of Hismediatorialglory-aglorywhichwilleverexcitetheadmirationof the redeemed in heaven, and with which they shall becrowned through all the ages of immortality.How cheering tothe true believer is the declaration of a compassionateRedeemer- 'The glorywhich you gaveMe, I have given them.'Transformed into the glorious image of Christ, the bright andmorning Star, all the redeemed will at last shine as thebrightnessof thefirmament-asthestars foreverandever.Oh,howglorious isJesus,ourStar,ourSunandShield!How free,howimmensetherichesofHisgrace!'OLordofhosts,blessedisthemanthattrustsinyou.'

IsheaStar?Hebreaksthenight,Piercingtheshadeswithdawninglight;IknowHisgloriesfromafar,IknowTHEBRIGHT,THEMORNINGSTAR.'IsHeaSun?Hisbeamsaregrace;Hiscourseisjoyandrighteousness;NationsrejoicewhenHeappearsTochasethecloudsanddrytheirtears.'

TheSaviormaybecomparedtoaBRIGHTStar,becauseHeisthe brightness of the Father's glory, and the express image ofHis person.Who can conceive the transcendent brightness ofJesus inHisperson,and inHiswork? 'Youare fairer than thechildren ofmen: grace is poured into your lips: thereforeGodhas blessed you forever.' The Creator of the universe, theappointed Heir of all things, He is the most glorious andillustriousofallbeings.'AllkingsshallfalldownbeforeHim;allnations shall serveHim.' 'The Lord of hosts isHis name; and

your Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; the God of the wholeearthshallHebecalled.'

He may be compared to a MORNING Star, because hismanifestationinthefleshforetoldthecloseofalonganddrearynight, and ushered the dawn of a brighter day than had everbeforegladdenedthissin-stainedearth- thedayof gospel lightandpeace-thedayofheavenlygloryandimmortality.WhentheSonofGodappearedonearthinthehumblegarbofhumanity,when this glorious 'day-spring from on high' was seen in ourhorizon, the shadows fled away; the night of Jewish darknesswas at its close; the day of Christian splendor opened; lightbeameduponthenationssittingindarkness,andintheshadowof death; a new and living way back to a Paradise lost wasopened;while,atthesametime,allheavenrejoiced,andangelssang-'GlorytoGodinthehighest,andonearthpeace,goodwilltowardmen.'

Oh, how glorious did this morning Star, this Harbinger ofeternaldayappear,risingovertheplainsofBethlehem,amidthesongs and joyful acclamations of angels, and the worship andadmiration of men, conducting the wandering sinner throughearth's dark and stormynight, toheaven's bright and peacefulshore!'BeholdthemorningStararise,YouthatindarknesssitHemarksthepaththatleadstopeace,Andguidesourdoubtfulfeet'

THE SAVIOR IS CALLED THE SUN OFRIGHTEOUSNESS.'Unto you that fear my name, shall the Sun of Righteousnessarisewithhealing inhiswings.'MostappropriatelymayHebecalledaSunonaccountofHistranscendentbrightness,purity,majesty,andworth;andbecausehedispelsallmoraldarkness,andgives light, andheat, andanimation toalluponwhomHegraciously shines. ButHe is a Sun that infinitely surpasses all

created light. His glory suffers no eclipse. His brightness isessentiallyHisown.Oh,ifwehaveobtainedbutaglimpseoftheglory of Emmanuel, how dim, in our view, will appear all thetransient splendors of earth! How will we rise above thesetemporal things, and long for thebeatificvisionof theKing inHisbeautyonHisheavenlythrone-oftheSunofRighteousness,shining in unclouded splendor in those new heavens, whereindwellsrighteousness!

Asthesunisagloriousluminary,soisJesus.InHishumananddivinenature,and inallHisworks,he is 'glorious inholiness,''You are glorious and more majestic than the everlastingmountains!'AndblessedbeHisgloriousname forever:and letthewholeearthbefilledwithHisglory.'Heisalsomostpure;'alambwithoutblemishandwithoutspot,''whodidnosin,neitherwasdeceitfoundinHismouth.' 'EverywordofGodispure.'FromHimaloneproceedsthepureriverofthe water of life. How pure indeed is that Savior who haschargedHisangelswith folly- inwhosesight the 'starsarenotpure!''Youareofpurereyesthantobeholdevil,andcannotlookoniniquity.'

He is, moreover, invested with royal majesty; and His worthcannot be declared. 'He is clothed withmajesty.' 'O Lord, ourLord, the majesty of your name fills the earth! Your glory ishigherthantheheavens.'Howmostaptly,then,maytheSaviorbecomparedtothesunforHisbrightness,purity,majesty,andworth!

Now, look at the great work which the Sun of Righteousnessaccomplishes when He rises in the soul, and see howappropriate and beautiful is the emblem. He scatters thedarknessof thenightof sin and sorrow, andbrings thedayofgrace,andjoy,andeternalfelicity.Yes,whenChristisformedinthesoul,thehopeofglory,lightbreaksthroughtheclouds;theshadows flee away; a morning, clear, bright, and beautiful,dawnsuponthemoralvision-amorningwithoutclouds-aday

whichwillneverend;forwherethisSunshinesthereshallbenonight.Sunofmysoul!OhSaviordear,ItisnotnightifYoubenear;Oh!maynoearth-borncloudarise,TohideYoufromYourservant'seyes!'

Christ, our Sun, communicates the choicest blessings to themoral world. Under His genial and fertilizing influence, theChurchisenabledtoputonherbeautifulgarments,andtoshineintheperfectionofbeauty;andtheverydesertismadetorejoiceandblossomastherose."AlldarknessfliesawaybeforeHim:itwasHis arising in theworld thatmade the day break and theshadowsflyaway.Thetypesandshadowsofthelawwerethenabolished.ItwasHislightthatdispelledthemistsofignoranceandidolatry,andHealonedeliversthesoulfromthenightofsinand misery produced by it. All the stars, and the moon withthem, cannot make it day in the world; this is the sun'sprerogative: nor can nature's highest light, the most refinedsocietyandmorality,makeitdayinthesoul;forthisisChrist'sjurisdiction.'(Leighton).

As the Sun of Righteousness, He gives light to all nations onwhomHehasrisenwithhealinginHiswings;andHisglorywillsoon fill thewholeworld. His beams are circumscribed by nolimits,norare they confined toanyparticularnation, class, ordenomination of men. Jesus is exhibited as the light of theGentilesandthegloryofHispeopleIsrael.'ThereisneitherJewnorGreek,thereisneitherbondnorfree,thereisneithermalenorfemale:foryouarealloneinChristJesus.''Forbyonespiritare we all baptized into one body, whether we are Jews orGentiles,whetherwearebondorfree;andhavebeenallmadetodrinkintoonespirit.''Thereisonebody,andonespirit,evenasyouarecalledinonehopeofyourcalling;oneLord,onefaith,onebaptism, oneGod andFather of all,who is above all, andthrough all, and in you all.' Oh, how comprehensive andinspiring are these scriptural declarations respecting our Lord

JesusChrist,whoseglorywillyetmaketheworldasthegardenoftheLord,andbetheeverlastinglightofthesaintsabove!

As the light which is emitted from the sun is free to all thenations of earth, so the lightwhich emanates fromChrist, theSun of Righteousness, is free to all men, even the mostdepraved, those whom the Scriptures designate as 'the stout-hearted,thatarefarfromrighteousness.'Theinvitationistoall,without exception; 'Come, and let us walk in the light of theLord.'How free, rich, and amazing is the grace ofGod,whichbringssalvationtolostandwretchedman!Oh,letusprizethisgracemorehighly.

Asbutonesungiveslighttotheworld,sothereisbutoneSunofRighteousness;oneSonofGod;oneMediatorbetweenGodandman;oneLordandHeadoftheChurch.Christissetforthastheonly Savior of a lost world. Neither is there salvation in anyother, for there is no other name under heaven given amongmen, whereby wemust be saved.' Here is the onlymethod ofmercy- the only refuge from the storm of divine wrath. ThencometotheSavior;buildyourhopesofimmortalfelicityonthisonly foundation- this Rock of Ages. See Him, who only hasbrought life and immortality to light, waiting to receive you.Take refuge in the arms of His mercy, and your guilt will becancelled, the sting of death removed, and your soul eternallysaved.

WhowouldnotlongfortherevelationofJesusinthesoul,whenHis glories are so great, and the blessings He confers soimmense!Oh,may the Sun ofRighteousness rise in our soulswithhealing inHiswings, shedding forthHismarvelous light,andpreparingus forbeholdingHisbrightness in thatworldofblissfulimmortalitybeyondthestars.

Christ,whosegloryfillstheskies,Christthetrue,theonlylight,

SunofRighteousness,arise,Triumphovertheshadesofnight;Dayspringfrontonhigh,benear,Daystarinmyheartappear.Darkandcheerlessisthemorn,UnaccompaniedbyThee;Joylessistheday'sreturn,UntilYourmercy'sbeamsIsee;Untilyourinwardlightimpart,Gladdenmyeyesandwarmmyheart.Visitthenthissoulofmine,Piercethegloomofsinandgrief,Fillme,radiancydivine,Scatterallmyunbelief;Moreandmoreyourselfdisplay,Shiningtotheperfectday.'

THE SAVIOR IS REPRESENTED AS THE LIGHT OF THEWORLD. John describes Him as 'the true Light, whichenlightenseverymanthatcomesintotheworld;'andthisisHisowndeclaration,'Iamthelightoftheworld;hethatfollowsmeshallnotwalk indarkness,butshallhavethe lightof life.'Andagain,'Ihavecomeasalighttoshineinthisdarkworld,sothatall who put their trust in me will no longer remain in thedarkness.' These words admirably express the excellency andgloryofHischaracter.Ithasbeenwellremarked,that'amongallcreated excellences none can be borrowed more fitlyrepresentingChristthanthatoflight.'

He is called a Light because He is the author of the light ofnatureandgrace;ofeternalgloryandfelicity.ItisHewhogiveslight to those sitting in darkness and in the shadow of death,revealing intheclearestmanner thedivinewillconcerningourdutytoGodandman.'Herevealsthedeepandsecretthings:heknowswhat is in thedarkness, and the lightdwellswith him.'Hediscoversdeepthingsoutofdarkness,andbringsouttolighttheshadowofdeath.'The lightwhichcomesfromHim,whois

the bright and morning Star, guides and cheers the Christianpilgrimonthetroubledoceanoflife,andconductshiminsafetyto the haven of heavenly rest, where all are forever shelteredfromthestormandthetempest.'FairmorningStararise,Withlivinggloriesbright,Andpourontheseawakeningeyes,Afloodofsacredlight.Thehorridgloomisfled,PiercedbyYourbeauteousray;Shine,andourwanderingfootstepsleadToeverlastingday.'

It is the divine radiance from Him who came to save, whichlightsupthegloomyvalleyofdeath,dispelsthefearfuldarknessofthegrave,andcausesthedepartingbelievertobreakforthinthe song of triumph- 'O death, where is your sting? O grave,whereisyourvictory?'Yes,itisthisgloriousmorningStarthatenlightensandsmoothsthepassagetothedarkandsilentgrave:TheStarthateverburnsUponthetomb'sdarkconfines,stilltocheerThesoul,departing.'

It was the Father's promise, when He would send His onlybegottenSonintotheworldasitsSavior,togiveHimfor'alightofthegentiles;toopentheblindeyes,tobringouttheprisonersfromtheprison,andthosewhositindarknessoutoftheprison-house;'andwhentheagedSimeonheldthe 'ChildJesus' inhisarms he uttered this fervent prayer; 'Lord, now let you yourservant depart in peace, according to your word: for my eyeshave seen your salvation, which you have prepared before theface of all people; a light to reveal God to the nations.'WhenIsaiah, rapt in prophetic vision, sees Christ as the light of thechurchandtheworld,howsublimeistheeloquencethatthrillshisheart andbursts fromhis lips! 'Arise, shine!Let your lightshine for all the nations to see! For the glory of the Lord isshininguponyou.Darknessasblackasnightwill coverall the

nations of the earth, but the glory of the Lord will shine overyou.Allnationswillcometoyourlight.Mightykingswillcometoseeyourradiance.'O true Light, which enlightens everyman that comes into theworld, glorious Sun of Righteousness still shine, dispelling allmoral darkness, until every nation beholds Your brightness-untileverylandrejoicesinyourlife-givingbeams.OSunofglorioussplendor,Shinewithhealinginyourwing;Chaseawaytheseshadesofdarkness,Holylightandcomfortbring.LettheheraldsofsalvationRoundtheearthwithjoyproclaim,DeathandhellarespoiledandvanquishedThroughthegreatEmmanuel'sname.TakeYourpower,AlmightySavior,ClaimthenationsforYourown;Reign,OLordofLifeandglory,UntileachheartbecomesYourthrone.

TheSaviorisnotonlytheLightoftheworld,butalsoofheaven;thelightofthatcitywhichhas'noneedofthesun,neitherofthemoon to shine in it,' whose light is 'like unto a stone mostprecious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal.' In theNewJerusalem above, the Sun of Righteousness will ever shine inmiddaysplendor,whilethenationsofthesavedwillwalkinHislight throughceaselessages. In that celestialworld, all createdlight isunnecessaryonaccountof thesurpassingbrightnessoftheSavior'sglorifiedPerson;andinthelightwhichcomesfromHim will the redeemed forever behold the face of God withinexpressiblejoy.Happyishewhocansaywiththepsalmist:'Asfor me, I will behold your face in righteousness; I shall besatisfiedwhenIawake,withyourlikeness.'

With what emotions of wonder, admiration, and gratitude,should we contemplate the Savior as THE BRIGHT ANDMORNINGSTAR,andLIGHToftheworld!BlessedbeGod,that

Hehas givenus such a gloriousLight to guideus through thedarkandbewilderingscenesofmortalitytoahappylandbeyondthe river of death- a landwhere grows the fruitful tree of life,andwhereflowthosecrystalstreamswhosefountain-headisatthe throne of the Eternal! It is a thought which should everrejoiceourhearts, thatJesushasappeared in theworldas thedaystar, the Sun of Righteousness, whose healing beams arebringing life, andpeace, and immortality to countlessmillionsonceinspiritualdarknessanddeath.

Oh,howgreataretheblessingswhichthistrueLightconfersonthemoralworld- infinitelygreater thanthosewhichthesun inyonderheavenspoursuponearth. If theSunofRighteousnesshadnotrisenuponus,astheday-springtoguideourfeetinthepathofpeace,wewouldhavegropedin 'thedarkwithoutlight'through our earthly course, and been finally doomed to the'blackness of darkness,' through those vast ages which rollbeyond the grave. Oh, then, let us be grateful for this Lightwhichshines fromheaven toguideourerring feet toablissfulshore.Andletusearnestlyendeavor towalk in the lightof theLord Jesus, and we will find that all His ways are ways ofpleasantness,andthatallhispathsarepeace;that,attheendofourpilgrimage,glory,honor,andimmortalitywillbeourrewardinheaven.

Thedivineinjunctionis,'Letyourlightsoshinebeforemen,thattheymayseeyourgoodworks,andglorifyyourFatherwhoisinheaven.' 'Walkaschildrenof light.' 'Thenight is far spent, theday is athand: let us therefore cast off theworksof darkness,andletusputonthearmoroflight.''Youareallthechildrenoflight,andthechildrenoftheday:wearenotofthenight,norofdarkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let uswatchandbesober.'Ifwewalkasthechildrenoflightandoftheday, we will be adorned with the resplendent robes of theRedeemer's righteousness, while journeying homeward andheavenward, until, translated to that brighter world, we shallshinewiththereflectedgloryofEmmanuel,asthestarsforever

andever.'Walkinthelight!andyoushallownYourdarknesspassedaway,Becausethatlighthasonyoushone,Inwhichisperfectday.Walkinthelight!andeventhetombNofearfulshadeshallwear;Gloryshallchaseawayitsgloom,ForChristhasconqueredthere;Walkinthelight!andyoushallbeApath,thoughthorny,bright;ForGod,bygrace,shalldwellinyou,AndGodhimselfislight!'

Christiansarecalledthelightoftheworld;andthesourcewheretheyderivetheirbrightnessisfromtheStarofJacob-theStarofMorning-'There,astotheirFountain,otherstarsRepairing,intheirgoldenurnsdrawlight.'

The church must first be enlightened by Christ, the Sun ofRighteousness, and then she will shine 'fair as themoon, andclear as the sun.' Then let all come to the Savior for spirituallight and life, and all the joys of salvation. If we remain at adistancefromHim,ifwelistennottoHiscompassionatevoice,if we refuse His invitation of mercy, if we quench His HolySpirit,wewillwanderoninthe'darknessandblindness'ofourmindsuntil the shadowsof an eternalnight gather aroundus,untilourimmortalsoulsareforeverbeyondthereachofmercy.Oh,letuscomeatoncetoJesus,whoiswaitingtoshedHislightupon us. Let us look toHim; and celestial radiance will beamforth upon our souls. 'They looked unto him, and werelightened: and their faceswere not ashamed.' 'While you havethe light, believe in the light, that youmay be the children oflight.'

And while we linger on the shores of time, let our earnest

petitionbe thatof thePsalmist- 'Lord, liftup the lightofYourcountenanceuponus.' 'Godbemerciful unto us, andbless us;and cause His face to shine upon us.' In the expressive andappropriatewordsofJonathanEdwards,'Thislightgivesaviewof those things that are immensely the most exquisitelybeautiful, and capable of delighting the eye of theunderstanding.Thisspirituallightisthedawningofthelightofglory in the heart. There is nothing so powerful as this tosupport people in affliction, and to give the mind peace andbrightnessinthisstormyanddarkworld.'

Christianpilgrim, letyourthoughtsdailydwellonthemajesty,purity,excellence,andgloryofJesus,ourMorningStar.Asyougaze on the starry sky in the silent hour of night, andcontemplate the magnificence of its glowing luminaries, oh,think of the Star of Jacob- of Him whose glory shines fromheaventoearth-ofHimwhohascomefrommansionsbeyondtheskies to thesedarkabodesof sinanddeath, thatHemightconductustothelightandblessednessofheaven.ThinkofHimastheBabeofBethlehem,as theManofsorrows,agonizing inthegarden,andexpiringonthecross,thatyoumightreachtheskiesandshineasastaringlory.ThinkofHimasburstingthebands of death; as ascending triumphantly to heaven; and asintercedingforyouinthepresenceofGod.ThinkofHimasthebrightnessoftheFather'sglory,fullofgraceandtruth,readytobringpeaceandjoy,graceandglory,tothewearyspiritthirstingafterhappiness.ThinkofHisamazinggraceinundertakingandaccomplishingyour salvation-of themanymansionsof felicityHehasprepared foryouabove-of theunspeakable joyswhichawaityouintheskies.

ObrightandmorningStar,OgloriousSunofRighteousness,inYourboundlesscompassion,riseinmysoulwithhealinginYourwings.Oh,shineastheday-starinmyheart,togivemethelightof the knowledge of the glory ofGod.Dispel the gloomof sin,and sorrow, and unbelief; and give inward light, and joy, andpeace. 'Letyourmerciescomealsountome,OLord,evenyour

salvation, according to your word.' Cheer my heart with thegenialpowerofyourlove;elevatemyaffectionsfromearthlytoheavenlyobjects;and fillmywholesoulwithYour fullness.Bewith me through all the changing and trying events of life'spilgrimage; in weakness bemy strength; in sorrowmy joy; inadversitymysolace.WhenIsitindarkness,bealightuntome;whenIdescend into thevalleyof theshadowofdeath toclosemyeyesonallthescenesofearth,mayallaroundmebebrightand serene; and when the last breath is drawn and the lastmortalstruggleisover,oh,maysomeministeringspiritfromtheskiesbesent toconductmydepartingsoulhome to the far-offcityofrestandfelicity;thenbemyeverlastinglight,myglory.

O blessed Jesus, hasten that long wished-for day of heavenlybeatitude,whenyourservantsshallenterintothosemansionsoflight,wheretheirsunshallnomoregodown;whentheyshallbewithYou,whereYouare;beholdingwithunceasingadmirationYour untold glories; when, clothed with the robes ofimmortality, they shallwalk inYour light through the celestialrealms, shining 'all glorious within;' when they shall beenraptured with the contemplation of Your finished work onCalvary, tuning on golden harps Your praise; andwhen, amidtheunutterable splendors ofParadise,You shall conduct themtolivingfountainsofwaters,perennialstreamsofjoy,boundlessoceans of felicity. Speedily dawn, O happy day, uponmy soulandtheworld.LetYourglory,OEmmanuel,soonfillthewholeearth, until all the redeemed are gathered home to be foreverwithYou.Thenshallamultitudewhichnomancannumber,ofallnations,andkindreds,andpeople,andtongues,beholdwithadmiringeyestheineffablegloriesoftheMORNINGSTAR;thenshall You, blessed Jesus, be eternally glorified in your saints,andadmiredinallthenwhobelieve.

Omy soul, until that happy period arrives, keep gazing at thebrightandmorningStar;soshallJesusbecomemoreandmoreprecious to you; so shall the excellence ofHis Person and theriches of His grace be your sweetest song until mortality is

swallowedupoflife-untilyoushallreachthehomeofthesoulin your Father's house on high, and there begin the unendingsongofMosesandtheLamb.'Arise,ObrightandmorningStar,AndsendYoursilverybeamsafar;Dispeltheshadesofdrearynight,Andletmehailthedawninglight.BlindedbysinIwentastray,And,wanderinglefttheheavenlyway,DartforthYoursoul-revivingrays,Andguidemeallmyfuturedays.WithgrowingstrengthmayIpursueThecourse-whichheavenlywisdomdrew,UntilIshallreachtheblissfulshore,Wherepilgrimsrest,andstraynomore.'

THESAVIORINHISDIVINENATURE

Oh,whoshallpaintHim?-LetthesweetesttoneThatevertrembledontheharpsofHeaven,Bediscord;letthechantingseraphim,Whoseanthemiseternity,bedumb;Forpraiseandwonder,adoration,allMeltintomutenessbeforetheysoartoYou,Oh,solePerfection!Themeofcountlessworlds.R.Montgomery

Themostinteresting,profitable,andelevatingthemethatcanbepresentedfor thecontemplationof theChristianonhisway toimmortality, is thePerson and glory of the Savior– thenatureand excellences of His divine perfections; and the variousrelationsHesustainstousinHismediatorialcharacter.Invainwill we search for another theme which possesses suchirresistible charms for the truly pious. The excellency of the

knowledge of Christ Jesus in His person and work! Howcaptivatingasubject!Withwhatpleasureshouldwedwelluponit!ThismadePaulcountallelseascomparativelytrifling.Howstrong his language! 'Yes doubtless, and I count all things butloss for the excellency of the knowledge Of Christ Jesus myLord.' 'ForIdeterminednottoknowanythingamongyou,butJesusChristandHimcrucified.'

Thesaintsinallageshavespentthehappiestmomentsoftheirearthlypilgrimage inmeditatingon thePersonof theadorableRedeemer, and tracing the never failing streams of His grace,flowing from the throne of God for the refreshment of soulsthirstingamidthedesertsoflife.ItisthepresenceofJesusthatbrings heaven to the soul– and oh, what foretastes of futurefelicityhavebelieversenjoyeduponearth,whentheyhavekeptHimbefore themind as the glorious object of contemplation!Howmany precious hours have they passedwhile thinking ofHiminthehouseandbytheway–intheclosetandthechurch!Even in the still hours of night,when they have thoughtuponHisname,howoftenhavetheybeenreadytoexclaim,whilethefireburnedwithinthem; 'HowpreciousalsoareYourthoughtsuntome,OGod!howgreatisthesumofthem!''MymeditationofHimshallbesweet;IwillbegladintheLord.''Mysoulshallbe satisfied as withmarrow and fatness; andmymouth shallpraiseYouwithjoyfullips;whenIrememberYouuponmybed,andmeditateonYouinthenightwatches.'

It was the remembrance of the divine glories and wonderfulworks of Emmanuel, that so enraptured the mind of thepsalmist,andtunedhisharpanew.'IwillsinguntotheLordsolong as I live– I will sing praise to my God while I have mybeing.'This causedPaulandSilas, in theprisonofPhilippi, tobreakforthintheirmidnightsongsofpraise.Thishasalsomadethemartyr joyful at the stake; and caused thousands of God'schildrentosmileevenamidtheswellingsofJordan.HowsweetthenameofJesussoundsInabeliever'sear!

Itsootheshissorrows,healshiswounds,Anddrivesawayhisfear.Itmakesthewoundedspiritwhole,Andcalmsthetroubledbreast;Itismannatothehungrysoul,Andtothewearyrest.'

TotheChristian,whileonearth,theremembranceofthenameofJesuswilleverbeasointmentpouredforth;andwhenalltheredeemedshallhavetakenuptheirgoldenharpsinheaven,thenameofthe 'Childborn,'andthe 'Songiven'–Emmanuel,Godwithus–willcallforththeloudestnotes,andtunethesweetestpraisethrougheternity.AndisitnotmostreasonablethatJesusshould be the grand object of the soul's desire; and that Heshouldbedailyinourthoughts?LookatwhatHeisinHimself–the embodiment of all that is truly great, and excellent, andlovely–clothedwitheveryperfectionofDeity–Godoverall,andblessedforever.HowhighlyshouldHebeprizedonaccountofHis personal excellencies! How much of our time should wespendindevoutmeditationsonHisuncreatedglories!

ButlookagainatwhatHehasaccomplishedforthehumanraceby His manifestation in the flesh- by satisfying the justice ofGod- by obeying the divine law- by atoning for our guilt- bysufferinganddyinginourroom-bylivingtointercedeforus-byopeningthegatesofParadise,thatwemaybebroughtwithinitsblissful bowers to eat of the fruit of the Tree of Life, whichstandsonthebanksoflivingstreams.ChristJesusistheauthorand finisher of our faith; the captain of our salvation; theconqueror of our foes; the bestower of heavenly blessings; theonly foundationofourhopesof futurehappiness–ourall,andinall.HowhighlythenshouldweesteemHimforHiswonderfulmanifestations of divine compassion. In what lofty strainsshould we extol Him for what He has done to save our soulsfrom eternal death! Here, let the saints be joyful in glory; letthemsingaloudupontheirbeds.

Omy soul, let it be your delightful employment daily to lookunto Jesus in the exercise of faith, contemplating Him in thegloriesofHisPerson,andintheexhibitionsofHisgrace.

THE PERSONOF THE SAVIOR IS DIVINE. His divinity is afundamentalarticleofourholyreligion; the lifeandsoulofallspiritual truth; and the foundation on which prophets, andapostles, and martyrs, and all true believers have built theirhopes for eternity. And although many, in every age havelabored hard to overthrow this grand doctrine of Christianity,yetitstandsinZion;asurefoundationstone;andneverwillthedevicesofman,nor thegatesofhell,prevailagainst it. Invainhas criticism been employed to erase from the Bible thisglorious,fundamentaltruth,thattheSavioroflostsinnersistheeternal Son of God, possessed of Almighty power, unerringwisdom,andinfinitegoodness-thatHeisequalwiththeFatherandHoly Spirit in all the perfections ofDeity. Strange does itseemthatanyperson,whoprofessestobelievetheBible,shouldrejectadoctrinesoclearlyasserted,andsofirmlyestablishedbydivinerevelation.

On this point Scripture testimony is abundant. In manypassagesisthetitleofGodascribedtotheLordJesusChrist,ourblessed Savior. Open the inspired Volume and read: 'In thebeginningwastheWord,andtheWordwaswithGod,andthewordwasGod.' 'UntotheSon,Hesays,Yourthrone,OGod, isforever and ever, a scepter of righteousness is the scepter ofYourkingdom."Ofwhom,asconcerningtheflesh,Christcame,'He isoverall,Godblessed forever.' Ithasbeenwell said, that'thissinglepassagefurnishesadecisiveanswer to thequestionrespecting the divinity of our Savior.' In other portions of theScriptureHeiscalled'themightyGodthegreatGod;''thelivingGod;''thetrueGodandeternallife;''theKingofglory;''theKingofkingsandLordof lords;' 'theeverlastingFather;' 'thePrinceof the kings of the earth;' 'Jehovah our Righteousness;' 'theimage of the invisibleGod;' 'the express image ofHis person;''Emmanuel,Godwithus.'Howclear, strong, andconclusive is

suchlanguage?Isitnotproofsufficienttoestablishthedivinityof Jesus? The truth is here repeated again and again. If theSavior is not equal with God in all the glorious perfections ofDeity,whyaresuchtitlesgiventoHim?Isitnotunreasonableaswell as impious to ascribe such names to a mere creature,howeverexcellentorexalted?Mostassuredlyitis.Theycanonlyapply to Him, who is in the form of God, and thinks it notrobberytobeequalwithGod-thegloriousSavior–thesinner'sFriend;theManofCalvary.

WehavegreatreasontorejoicewhenwethinkofthePersonofChrist.AdivineSaviorisours:alltheblessingsofgraceonearthandgloryinheaven,areinHishand.Heismightytosave.Letus fearlessly entrust our souls to Him. He has purchased theChurchwithHisdivineblood.Letuswashourrobesandmakethemwhite inHis blood, and we shall at length be presentedfaultlessbeforethepresenceofGodinheaven.Whilewebelievein Jesus as a divine Savior, we rest on a sure foundation- wereclineonthearmoftheAlmighty.ChristJesus,whoisoverall,God blessed forever, will be our refuge from every storm.Underneath and around us are the everlasting arms. He whoframedtheuniversewillguideusonwardwith'Hisgloriousarm'throughthescenesofearth,untilHeleadsustolivingfountainsof waters, amid the ineffable joys of heaven. How precious toreceive a divine Savior to rest our all onHim!Oh, the delightwhich this doctrine of Christ's divinity affords to the sincerebeliever!Oh,thepeacewhichitbringstothepioussoul!

ThedivinityofChristisprovedbythedivineperfectionswhichare ascribed to Him in the Scriptures, and by the religiousworship which is rendered to Him. Some of these peculiarattributesoftheblessedSaviorwewouldherenotice.

ETERNITYPASTANDTOCOME,BELONGSTOTHESAVIOR.Before the creation ofmind ormatter- from all eternity past-ChristJesuslayinthebosomoftheFather,enjoyingwithHimequal honor, power, glory, and blessing.He is declared by the

unerringwordofrevelationtohavebeen'inthebeginningwithGod;' and to have existed 'before all things.' Hear the ferventprayerofHimwhothoughtitnotrobberytobeequalwithGod,and whom the Father always delights to honor; 'And now, OFather,glorifymewithyourownself;withtheglorywhichIhadwith You before the world was.' His eternal existence is,moreover,expresslydeclaredbythetitleswhichHeassumesinthe Revelation: 'I am the first and the last.' 'I am Alpha andOmega, thebeginningand theend, the first and the last.'ThisprovesthatChrististrulyandperfectlyGod,theonlylivingandtrue God, the everlasting God; for none but a divine personcould proclaim himself by such titles. This is a gloriousperfection of the Deity. God has revealedHimself under titlessimilartothosewhichtheSaviorhasappliedtoexpressHisownabsoluteeternity.'ThussaystheLordtheKingofIsrael,andHisRedeemer theLordof hosts; I am the first, and I am the last;andbesidemethereisnoGod.' 'Whohaswroughtanddoneit,callingthegenerationsfromthebeginning?ItheLord,thefirst,and with the last; I am He.' 'Hearken unto me, O Jacob andIsrael,mycalled;IamHe;Iamthefirst,Ialsoamthelast.'

In His addresses to the Jews, the Savior declares His infiniteexistence under a title which belongs to none but a divineperson. 'Jesus said unto them, verily verily, I say unto you,BeforeAbrahamwas,IAM.'WhenGodmadeknownHisgreatandgloriousnametoHischosenpeople, theancientIsraelites,whattitledidhechooseasmostexpressiveofHisdivinenatureand infinite existence? Was it not the same by which Jesusproclaimed himself to the Jews? 'AndGod said untoMoses, IAM THAT I AM. And He said, Thus shall you say unto thechildrenofIsrael,IAMhassentmeuntoyou.'OneofthetitlesgiventoChrist intheninthchapterofIsaiahis 'theeverlastingFather,' andwhere in all the Scripture canwe find a strongerpassagetoindicatetheeternityofGodHimself?NodoctrineofChristianity is more clearly evinced than that of the eternalexistence of the Son of God, and His original glory with theFather.

Besides those passages already quoted, the following may beadduced as also confirmatory of this fundamental truth. 'Butyou, Bethlehem Ephratha, though you are little among thethousandsofJudah,yetoutofyoushallHecomeforthuntome,whoistobeRulerinIsrael;whosegoingsforthhavebeenfromofold,fromeverlasting.'(InHebrew,'fromthedaysofeternity'.)ThispassagedeclarestheadventofOnewhosegoingsforthhavebeen from the days of eternity; andwhowill deny that it is aprophecyrespectingourLordJesusChrist?Itwasfulfilledwhenthe eternal Son of God divestedHimself of His original glory,leftthebosomoftheFather,andassumedournature-when,fortheredemptionofalostworld,GodHimselfwasmanifestedinthe flesh, and dwelt among men. When Jesus of Nazarethwalkedonearthinthelikenessofmen,intheformofaservant,despisedandrejectedofmen,amanofsorrowsandacquaintedwith grief, not having somuch as a place to layHis head,Hewas,atthesametime,Emmanuel,Godwithus,theFatheroftheeverlasting age, the Prince of Peace, the true God, and theEternalLife.

'AndweknowthattheSonofGodiscome,andhasgivenusanunderstanding,thatwemayknowHimthatistrue;andweareinHimthatistrue,eveninHisSonJesusChrist.ThisisthetrueGod, and eternal life.'Again, John callsHim 'thatEternalLifewhowaswiththeFather,andwasmanifesteduntous.'Doesnotsuchlanguageplainlyteachus, thatbeforeHis incarnationourblessedSaviorwaswith theFather, eternally existing, investedwith honor, power, and glory, and possessing every possibleperfectionoftheDivinity?Howthencanhiseternaldurationbereasonably questioned by any one who professes his belief indivine revelation?ThatJesusChrist,who is declared tobe thepower of God, and the wisdom of God, existed from eternitypast,isalsoevidentfromHisownlanguagewhendescribingHisoriginalandessentialglorywiththeFather.'TheLordpossessedmeinthebeginningofHisway,beforeHisworkofold.Iwassetupfromeverlasting, fromthebeginning,before theearthwas.'

Tous it is indisputable, thatChrist existedbefore theuniversewascalledintobeing-thatHisgoingsforthhavebeenfromtheclays of eternity. How excellent, dignified, and glorious thenmustbeHisPerson?

Hewas supremely blessed from all eternity past. Innumerableagesbeforethemorningstarssangtogether,andallthesonsofGod shouted for joy overworlds springing into being, the selfexistentSaviorwasinthepossessionofunutterableblissattherighthandofGod.Andwhenthe foundationofearthwas laid,and time commenced its course,Hewas still with the Father,enjoyingHisunceasingdelight,andrichinallcelestialblessings.'ThenIwasbyHim,asonebroughtupwithhim;andIwasdailyHis delight, rejoicing always before Him; rejoicing in thehabitablepartofHisearth;andmydelightswerewiththesonsofmen.'Whatheart can conceive the original blessedness, thegloriousexcellencyoftheeternalSonofGod!LookatHisuntoldglory; and ineffable joywith the Father from everlasting ages.HowintimateandendearingarelationdoesHesustaintoGod!'TheonlybegottenSon,whoisinthebosomoftheFather.''Youlovedme before the foundation of the world.' How expressiveare thesewordsof theblessedconditionofChristJesusbeforeHis incarnation, whenHe was daily the delight of the Father,rejoicing always beforeHim! In those joyousmansions above,HeenjoyedtheeverlastingdelightoftheFather,whocallsHimHiselect, inwhomHis soul delights. ThereHewaswithGod,theFountainofalldelight,inwhosepresenceisfullnessofjoy:andHecouldsay,'allthingsthattheFatherhasaremine.'HowrapturousthenmusthavebeenHisjoy!Hewasrichindeed.InthatexaltedstateHeexperiencednosorrow,nopain,nolack,notemptation,nohidingsofHisFather'scountenance.Heshednotearsinthosemansionsofglory,andeverlastingjoy.

Oh,howdifferentwasitwithHimwhenHeassumedournature,veiledHisglory,andcametotheseregionsofmortality forthepurpose of redeeming lost man! Here He was destitute, andafflicted, and despised, and rejected by Men. Here He was

oftentimesweary,whileHehadnotwheretolayHishead.HereHewepttearsofsorrowoverruinedhumanity,andevenpouredoutHissouluntodeathforoursakes.ItwasnotuntilHecametoaworldstainedwithsin,andstoodasourrepresentative,thatitpleasedtheLordtobruiseHim,andtoputHimtogrief.Andoh,howunutterablewasthatsorrowwhichHeenduredforusinGethsemane,whichcausedHimtosweatgreatdropsof blood,and to cry in the agony of his spirit, 'My soul is exceedingsorrowful,evenuntodeath.' 'Oh,myFather,ifitispossible,letthiscuppassfromme.'ItwasnotuntilHewasextendedonthecross,asoursacrifice,andboreoursins inHisownbody, thatHewasconstrainedtoutterthatmostpiercing;cry,'MyGod,myGod,whyhaveYouforsakenme?'

BlessedJesus,didYouleavethebosomofYourFather,andthefelicities of the heavenly mansions to be invested withhumanity-toenduresuchextreme, indescribablesufferingsformysake?Oh,matchlessgrace!Oh,infinitecondescension!EvenfrometernityYourdelightswerewiththesonsofmen.Amazingthought!Howmysterious!Howfathomless!Atathoughtsovastand so glorious, let the angels of Godwonder- let the sons ofmen rejoice. O blessed Son of God, my Savior, may I everacknowledge Your eternal existence, while I admire thesurpassing glory and excellence of Your Person, and magnifyYourboundless,incomparablelove.

OMNIPOTENCE IS ASCRIBED TO THE SAVIOR. 'I am theAlphaandOmega,thebeginningandtheending,saystheLord,who is, and who was, and who is to come, the almighty.' 'Allpower is given unto me in heaven and in earth.' 'Gird Yoursword upon Your thigh, O most mighty, with Your glory andYourmajesty.' In Isaiah, Christ is called theMighty God. Hisomnipotence is peculiarly displayed in the creation of theuniverse- a work which the Scriptures plainly and repeatedlyascribe toHim. Creative power belongs toDeity alone; and ofthispowerisChristpossessed.HeistheCreatorofanimateandinanimate nature- the Former of all things. He spoke; and

worldsstartedintobeing.Hesaid,Lettherebelight;andtherewaslight.FromHisdivinehandcamethisfruitfulearthwithitsbeautifulanddiversifiedlandscapes-itsfloweryfieldsandshadygroves- its lofty mountains and extended plains- its purlingstreamsandmajesticrivers-itsquietlakesandvastoceans.Butearth is only a small portion ofHismightywork. Lift up youreyes, andgazeon theample skywhen themantleofnighthascovered the world. View the heavens glimmering with stars.What a scene of magnificence is spread out in yon vast andimmeasurable regions,whereplanets roll, and suns pour theirfloods of light! By the word of His divine power the, Saviorcalled those countless luminaries into existence. 'Lift up youreyes on high, and behold who has created these things, whobringsouttheirhostbynumber;Hecallsthemallbynames,bythegreatnessofHismight, forHe is strong inpower;not onefails.'Howexaltingtothemindof theChristianis thethought,thatHewhoofferedHimselfasacrificeonCalvaryforthesinsoftheworldisthesamegloriousBeingthat'alonespreadsouttheHeavens, and treads upon the waves of the sea; whichmakesArcturus,Orion,andPleiades, and thechambersof the south.''AllnationsbeforeHimareasnothing;andtheyarecountedtoHimaslessthannothing,andvanity.'

Without any exception whatever, the creation of all things isascribedtotheSavior inthemostexplicit terms. 'ByHimwereall things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth,visibleandinvisible,whethertheyarethrones,ordominions,orprincipalities,orpowers;allthingswerecreatedbyHim,andforHim.''Youareworthy,OLord,toreceiveglory,andhonor,andpower; for You have created all things, and for Your pleasuretheyareandwerecreated.' 'All thingsweremadebyHim;andwithoutHimwasnotanythingmadethatwasmade.''Hewasintheworld,andtheworldwasmadebyHim,andtheworldknewHimnot.' 'BywhomalsoHemadetheworlds.' 'AndYou,Lord,inthebeginninghave laidthefoundationof theearth; and theheavensaretheworksofYourhands.''ForofHim,andthroughHim, and to Him are all things; to whom be glory forever.

Amen.' Now, if the universe was called into existence by thewordoftheSavior,astheScripturesassert,thenareHis'eternalpower andGodhead' demonstrated; and in the face of all thisBible testimony, wemay say with Dr. Owen, 'It is the highestrebellion against the light and teachings of God's word, todisbelieveHisdivineexistenceandpower.'Oh,then, letusnotwithhold fromtheSavior that revenueofglorywhich isdue toHimasthegreatArchitectof theuniverse.LetusacknowledgeHis divinity, and declare His mighty acts. Let us praise Himwhose divine hand has laid the foundation of the earth, andspreadoutthesky.

'EternalWisdom,Youwepraise,OfYoucreationsings;WithYourloudname,rocks,hills,andseas,Andheaven'shighpalacerings.Yourhandhowwideitspreadthesky,Howglorioustobehold!Tingedwithablueofheavenlydye,Andstarredwithsparklinggold.ThereYouhavebidtheglobesoflightTheirendlesscirclesrun;Therethepaleplanetrulesthenight,Anddayobeysthesun.ThenoisywindsstandreadythereYourorderstoobey,Withsoundingwingstheysweeptheair,TomakeYourchariotway.There,likeatrumpet,loudandstrong,Yourthundershakesourcoast;Whiletheredlightningswavealong,ThebannersofYourhost.'

The omnipotence of the Savior is displayed not only in thecreation of the universe, but also in its preservation. On thispoint,howstronganddecisiveisthelanguageofInspiration!'ByHimallthingsholdtogether.''Upholdingallthingsbytheword

ofHispower.'Herewearetaughtthatthemightyframeoftheuniverse is sustained in existence by the word of our divineSavior.HowgreatthenmustbeHispower;andhowillustriouslydoesHisdivinityshine in thepreservation,aswellascreation,ofthesemanifoldworksofHishand!Hehasnotonlykindledupthe sun in yonder heavens, but caused it to shine withundimmedsplendorforthousandsofyears.BythesamedivinepowerHepreservesallthecelestialbodiesindueorder,rollingthemwithperfectharmonyintheirproperspheresthroughtheillimitablevoid.'HishandsthewheelsofnatureguideWithanunerringskill,AndcountlessworldsextendedwideObeyHissovereignwill.'

To Him, all creatures owe the continuation of their existence,andall theblessings theyenjoy.Hiskingdomrulesoverall. 'OLord,Youpreservemanandbeast.'Hehassetaboundarytothesea, and its proud waves obey His command. To Him iscommittedtheprovidentialgovernmentoftheworld;andbyHisunseen, almighty power He sustains all nature, animate andinanimate, giving life to every blade of grass, and motion toeveryparticleofbloodwhichcirculatesthroughtheveinsoftheminutest animal. 'There is an unseen power, that rules theillimitableworld,thatguidesitsmotionsfromthebrighteststar,to the least dust of this sin-tainted world. While man, whomadly deems himself the Lord of all, is nothing butweaknessanddependence.'

OMNISCIENCEISASCRIBEDTOTHESAVIOR.ThispeculiarattributeoftheDivinityisexpresslyappliedtoHimindifferentportionsoftheScriptures.'Lord,Youknowallthings.''ButJesusdidnot entrustHimself unto them, becauseHe knew allmen,andneedednotthatanyshouldtestifyofman,forHeknewwhatwas in man.' 'And Jesus, knowing their thoughts.' In thefollowingwords the Savior declares bothHis omniscience andincomprehensibility: 'All things are delivered unto me of my

Father; and no man knows the Son, but the Father; neitherknowsanymantheFather,buttheSon,andHetowhomsoevertheSonwillsrevealHim.'Again,Hesays,'IamHewhosearchesthoughts and hearts; and I will give unto every one of youaccordingtoyourworks.'InHismessagetothesevenchurchesofAsia,HedeclaresthatitisHisprerogativetosearchtheheart,andtoknowtheworksofthesonsofmen.Ineachmessagethistruthisexpressedinthesentence–'IknowYourworks.'Intheblessed Savior are hidden all the treasures of wisdom andknowledge.HesearchesJerusalemwithlightedcandles.Hehasa perfect knowledge of every event that is transpiring in theremotestpartofHismightyempire.Heaven,earth,andhell,areallunveiledbeforeHim.Hiseyes,whichareasa flameof fire,areineveryplace,beholdingtheevilandthegood.Now,ifJesusknowswhatisintheheartsofallmen,andifHeistojudgethemin righteousness, according to their works, then, certainly, Hemustbeadivineperson,possessinginfiniteknowledge.

In theomniscienceofChrist there isanunfailingspringof joyandconsolationfortherealChristian.Howinspiringtofeelthatwe have a Savior who knows all our needs- whose eye is everuponusforgood-whoseear isalwaysopenedtoourpetitions.'FortheeyesoftheLordareovertherighteous,andHisearsareopenuntotheirprayers.''IwillsetMyeyesuponthemforgood.'Comethen,youafflicted,tempest-tossedchildofearth,andlayall your sorrows before an omniscient and compassionateSavior. Make all your desires make known to Him. He has awillingeartohearyou,awillinghearttoloveyou,awillinghandtosaveyou.Weepnot!Jesushearsyou,Hearsyourmoaningsbroken,HearswhenyourightwearilyAllyourgriefhavespoken.Raiseyourcry,Heisnigh,Andwhenthewavesrollfullinview,Heshallfixtheir"Hitherto."

Let its view this subject seriously and practically. Let itsremember that Jesus knows all the thoughts that are passingthroughourminds. 'OLord,youhave examinedmyheart andknoweverythingaboutme.YouknowwhenIsitdownorstandup.Youknowmy every thoughtwhen far away.You chart thepath ahead of me and tell me where to stop and rest. EverymomentyouknowwhereIam.YouknowwhatIamgoingtosayevenbeforeIsayit,Lord.Youbothprecedeandfollowme.Youplaceyourhandofblessingonmyhead.Suchknowledgeistoowonderfulforme,toogreatformetoknow!'ThatdivineSavior,whoisnowourWitness,andwhowillbeforelongbeourJudge,knows perfectly well what is the present inclination of ourminds- whether our hearts are absorbed with the emptypleasuresofearth,orwhetherweloveHimsupremely.Ohthateachofus, fromour inmost soul,maybeenabled toappeal toHim as the Searcher of hearts, in the language of the apostle,'Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You!' HowhappytobethusfirmlypersuadedoftheomniscienceofJesus!HowhappytobeconsciousthatwetrulyloveHim;andthatwecanmakesuchanappealtoHimintruthandsincerity!Hereisajoy which the world cannot impart- which dwells only in thebosomof the truechildofGod.May this joybeeveryours-beevermine.

OOmniscientSavior,webeseechYoutowatchoverusamidallthescenesofearth.Wearestillontheoceanoflife,exposedtoitsstormsandits tempests;butwhile thewavesdashoneverysideofus,mayweseeYourgloriousFormonthetroubledsea;maywehearYouranimatingvoice-'Beofgoodcheer;itisI;donot be afraid.'Maywe rejoice in the belief, that You know allthings, andare intimately acquaintedwith all ourways.GuideuswithYour counsel.Showus thepathof life.BeourguidingStaruntilwereachtheharborofeternalrest.Beverynearusinallthewanderingsofourearthlypilgrimage.Andoh,inthatlast,solemnhourwhichwill terminate thevoyageof life- thathourwhenallbeneaththeskieswillproveunavailing-Oh,You,whoknowall theneedsanddesiresof an immortal spirit at such a

time,standbyusandwhisperwordsofpeace,andcomfort,andjoytoourdepartingsouls;andwhenweleavetheshoresoftime,andembarkontheboundlessoceanofeternity,maywefindthatit isanoceanofblessedness,wherenotawaveshall ever rise-wherenotastormshalleverbeat.Oh,maywebeamongthose,whowillforeverstandbeforeYourheavenlythroneonthat'seaof glass like unto crystal,' casting our crowns before You,whohasredeemedustoGodbyYourblood,andascribinguntoYourname all the glory, and honor, and power through the ages ofbliss.

ANOTHER ATTRIBUTE OF THE SAVIOR ISOMNIPRESENCE. This attribute, as it implies immensity ofnature,canbelongonly toaDivineperson.AndHewho is thefaithfulandTrueWitnesshasleftthesewordsonrecordfortheencouragementacidconsolationofallHisfollowers.'Wheretwoor three are gathered together inmy name, there am I in themidstofthem.''Andlo,Iamwithyoualways,evenuntotheendoftheworld.'Now,unlessHeisaDivinePerson,howcanChristJesus, whom the heavens must receive until the times of therestitution of all things, be with His people on earth, in theirdifferent assemblies for religious worship, in all ages of theworld? It is only by His divine nature that He is here in ourmidsttoblessusandtodousgood.Andwheneverorwhereverwe assemble for religious worship we may, according to Hispromise,expectHisgraciouspresencetostrengthenourhands;tocheerourhearts; to liftusabovethecares, thesorrows,andthetrialsofthepresentlife.WhentheSavior,inthedaysofHispersonal ministry, was teaching Nicodemus the necessity ofregeneration,HewaspresentinHisdivinenature,inHeaven,aswellasonearth,andcouldsay,atthesametime,'EventheSonofmanwhoisinheaven.'IfHeisnotreallyaDivinePersonhowcould such language have been spoken by Him, who is calledTHE TRUTH- all the words of whose mouth are inrighteousness? But He fills immensity withHis divine nature,andiswithHisdisciplesinthisvalleyoftears,aswellaswiththeredeemed in mansions of heavenly felicity. Possessing this

gloriousattributeoftheGodhead,immensityofnature,Hecansay,respectingHimself:'AmIaGodathand,saystheLord,andnotaGodafaroff?Cananyhidehimself insecretplacesthatIshallnotseehim?saystheLord.DonotIfillheavenandearth?saystheLord.'

ItisamostcomfortingtruthforthetrueChristiantoknowthathis Lord and Savior possesses this divine excellence; to beassuredthatHe,whomhissoulsoardentlydesires,iswithhimatalltimes,inallplaces,andunderallcircumstances.Oh,howsoothing to hear Him, who fills immensity with his presence,whisperinourears,aswemoveonwardinourjourneythroughthewilderness of thisworld, still pitching our tent nearer andnearertheheavenlyCanaan,'Mypresenceshallgowithyou,andIwillgiveyourest.'Letus thinkof this cheeringpromise.TheblessedSaviorwillnever forsakeus ifweputour trust inHimand follow Him, as the Lamb of God, wherever He goes. Hisgracious presencewill gowith us through the valley ofmortallife;andleaningonHisgloriousarm,wewillcomeupfromthewilderness.AndevenhereonearthHewillgiveusarest,asHehas promised. 'And you shall find rest unto your souls.' 'TheLordwillgiveyourestfromyoursorrow.'Butoh,inthehappyworldbeyondthegraveHewillgiveusafarmoregloriousrest.Yes,inthatblessedworld,wheresin,andsorrow,anddeathcannevercome,Hispresencewillgowithus,andHewillgiveusaneternalrest-arestfromsin,sorrow,pain,andalltheillsoflife-a rest with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob- a rest beneath theshadowoftheTreeofLifeinthemidstofParadise-arestbythelivingFountainsofwaterswhichissuefromthethroneofGod-therestofheaven.

Omy soul, return unto your rest forthwith. Seek the graciouspresenceofHimwholeftHisthroneonhigh,tosaveyou,tobewith you always, and to give you rest.May the thought of theomnipresenceofJesusfilluswithjoyandconsolationamidallthewaysoflife.'Hispresencesweetensallourcares,

Andmakesourburdenslight,AwordfromHimdispelsourfears,Andgildsthedoomofnight.'

Let us remember for our comfort, that the gracious eye of adivineSaviorisuponuseverymomentofourexistence,andthatHiseverlastingarmsarecontinuallyunderneathandaroundus,protectingusfromevil,shieldingusfromdanger,andleadingustothecityofthelivingGod,theheavenlyJerusalem.Wecannotgo from the presence of Israel's Shepherd, who is always andtruly God with us. If we take to ourselves the wings of themorning,anddwell intheuttermostpartsofthesea,Hiswordwillbetrue, 'Lo,Iamwithyoualways.'Ifwesay,thedarknessshallhideusfromHispresence; inthedarknessas inthe lightHewill still be at our right hand to defend and save us. Ifwemake the grave our bed, He will be there to watch over ourashes, and to awaken us from the slumbers of the longdreamlessnightofdeathonthemorningoftheresurrection.Ifwe ascend up into heaven, He is there, reigning in all thegrandeurofHisattributes;andthroughallthoseinfiniteagesofbliss, which roll beyond the judgment day- we will enjoy the'presence of the Lord,' and behold 'the glory of his power.'Where,then,shallwegofromHisSpirit?orwhereshallwefleefromHispresence?Oh,that,likethepsalmist,wecouldsettheLordalwaysbeforeus.Thenwewillhaveananchorofthesoul,bothsureandsteadfast,whentossedbythewavesanddrivenbythe storms of life's ocean. Thenwewill not bemovedbecauseJesusisatourrighthand,andinourmidst,averypresenthelpinthehouroftroubleanddanger.

'Souloftheworld,All-seeingEye,WhereshallmanfromYourpresencefly?Say,wouldheclimbthestarryheight?AllHeavenisinstinctwithYourLight.Dwellinthedarknessofthegrave?Yes,Youaretheretojudgeandsave.Invainonwingsofmornwesoar,

Invaintherealmsofspaceexplore,Invainretreattoshadesofnight,ForwhatcanveilusfromYoursight?DistancedissolvesbeforeYourray,Anddarknesskindlesintoday.'

IMMUTABILITY, ANOTHER ATTRIBUTE PECULIAR TOGOD, ISASCRIBEDTOTHE,SAVIOR. 'JesusChrist thesameyesterday,andtoday,andforever.'Thesametruthisexpressedinthewordswhichtheapostlequotesfromtheonehundredandsecondpsalm,toprovethesuperiorityoftheSonofGodtotheangels.'You,Lord,inthebeginninghavelaidthefoundationofthe earth; and theheavens are theworks of Your hands. Theyshallperish;butYouremain:andtheyallshallwaxoldasdoesagarment;andasavestureshallYoufoldthemup,andtheyshallbechanged:butYouarethesame,andYouryearsshallnotfail.'These passages evidently refer to the Savior in His uncreatednature. They teach us that He is possessed of absoluteimmutability; and if so, Hemust be a Divine Person; for thisattribute is incommunicable to a created being. This is aperfectionoftheSavior,whichrendershimverypreciousintheeyes of believers. Amid the scenes of changing and perishingmortality theycan lookheavenward,andrejoice in theblessedassurance,thatinyonderrealmsofdaytheyhaveaFriend,whois ever mindful of their highest interest, whose counsel isimmutable,whoseloveisunchanging,whosedelightsarealwayswith the sons of men. Yes, 'that love for men with which Heprayed and died on the cross, ever dwells in His bosom,susceptibleofnochange,nodecay.'ImmutableHiswill,Thoughdarkmaybemyframe,Hislovingheartisstill,Unchangeablythesame.Mysoulthroughmanychangesgoes,Hislovenovariationknows!'

Onallbeneath thatcelestial inheritancewhich fadesnotaway,

mutabilityiswritten.Oftheheavensandtheframeoftheworlditissaid,'Theyshallperish.'Changeistheportionofearthanditsinhabitants.Alas!whodoesnotknowbysadexperiencehowmutable are the conditions of life? Where are many of thefriends of our youth? Gone to the land of darkness andforgetfulness. Yesterday theywerewithus, today they arenot.Andthefriendswithwhomweare todaytakingsweetcounsel,may, before tomorrow's sun shall set, be torn from us by theunyielding grasp of death. Oh, the instability of all createdthings! Oh, the vanity of the world! We see an end of allperfectionhere;butletusnotconfineourviewstoearth.Letuslook to that blessed world which knows no change; on whoseeverlasting hills the Sun of Righteousness is always shining.Above all, let us think of the unchanging One there- of 'thatsame Jesus'who ever lives to plead our cause in the courts ofheaven,andwhowillatlengthgatherushometoHimself, thatwe may behold the glories of His Person, and enjoy througheternityHis unchanging love.His heart knowsno change.HislovetoHispeopleisaneverlastinglove. 'Ihavelovedyouwithan everlasting love; therefore, with loving-kindness have Idrawnyou.'

In all ages, past, present, and to come, He is the same great,excellent,andgloriousPerson.TheimmutabilityofJesusistheblessed sourcewhere flow someof our richesthopes and joys.WhatconsolationishereforthemournerinZion!IsthechildofGoddeprivedofnearanddearfriendsbythestrokeofdeath?InJesushehasaFriend,anElderBrother,whoeverlives,andwhoeverloves;andhecansayofthisdivineFriend,'HowcanIbereavedbe,SinceIcannotpartwithThee?'

Amid all the vicissitudes and bereavements of earth it is ourprivilegeandourhappinesstoconfideinanunchangingSavior-a Friend that sticks closer than a brother; Jesus, the sinner'sFriend.Most cheering is it tohearHis voice from the sublimeregionsof immortal life,proclaiming, 'IamHe that lives, Iam

aliveforevermore,Amen.'Oh,letuskeepthefar-reachingeyeoffaithcontinuallydirected towardsouradorableRedeemer;andmay the inspiring thought ofHis immutability fill uswith thepeaceofGod,whichpasses all understanding, and causeus torejoiceinthefullassuranceofhopeuntotheend.

DIVINE HONOR ANDWORSHIP ARE RENDERED TO THESAVIOR.ThisisrequiredintheScriptures;anditdemonstratesHis divinity; for certainly He cannot be the proper object ofreligious worship and honor unless all the fullness of theGodheaddwellsinHim.ToworshipabeinginferiortothegreatGodwouldberobbingHimofHisglory.Thecommandis:'YoushallworshiptheLordyourGod,andHimonlyshallyouserve.'ButasChrist,inHisdivinenature,istheimmediateobjectofallreligioushonor andworship, as theBible teaches us,Hemustconsequently be the trueGod, andworthy of all the adorationand praise of His rational creatures. That divine worship isrequiredintheScriptures,toberenderedtoHimbyangelsandsaints,appearsfromthefollowingpassages:'WhenHebringsinthefirst-bornintotheworld,Hesaid,Letall theangelsofGodworshipHim.''HeisyourLord;andworshipHim.'ItisthewilloftheFather,thatallmenshouldhonortheSon-'Thatallmenshould honor the Son, even as they honor the Father.He thathonorsnottheSon,honorsnottheFatherwhohassentHim.'

To the adorableRedeemer every knee is required to bow, andevery tongue to confessHim to be Lord. 'Wherefore God alsohashighlyexaltedHim,andgivenHimanamewhich isaboveeveryname;thatatthenameofJesuseverykneeshouldbow,ofthings in heaven, and things in earth, and things under theearth;andthateverytongueshouldconfessthatJesusChristisLord, to the glory of God the Father.' We are, therefore, toascribe to the Savior all infinite, divine excellencies; and tohonorHim,accordingtothewillofGod, 'evenaswehonortheFather.' And that He is thus divinely honored no one canreasonablydeny.BytheangelichostbeforethethroneofheavenHeisunceasinglyworshipedasGod,whoisoverall,Godblessed

forever. Paradise is continually resounding with His praise.Isaiah, in his sublime vision of the Savior's glory, beheld thedivinehonors thatarerenderedtoHimby theangelichostsofGod in that spacious temple not made with hands- the royalmansionofJehovah. 'I saw theLord.Hewas sittingona loftythrone, and the train of his robe filled the Temple. Hoveringaround himweremighty seraphim, each with six wings.Withtwowingstheycoveredtheirfaces,withtwotheycoveredtheirfeet, and with the remaining two they flew. In a great chorusthey sang, Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty! The wholeearth is filled with his glory! The glorious singing shook theTemple to its foundations, and the entire sanctuary was filledwithsmoke.'

This gloriousPerson,whom the seraphim thusworship, is theLordJesusChrist,asweare toldby theevangelist: 'IsaiahwasreferringtoJesuswhenhemadethisprediction,becausehewasgivenavisionoftheMessiah'sglory.'John12:41.Oh,withwhatrapture is our blessed Savior adored by all those ministeringspirits on high, those morning stars, those sons of God, whosangforjoywhenthecorner-stoneofearthwaslaid,andwhenthemysteriousworkof redemptionwasmadeknown to them!Andwithwhathumilitydo theyworship in thathighpalaceoftheKingofkingsandLordoflords,veilingtheirfaceswiththeirwings,whiletheytuneonharpsofgoldthepraisesofChrist,theLamb,whositsenthronedamidthegloriesofheaven!

'Highonathroneofburnishedgold,WithraysofGodheadcrowned,Jehovahsat;Histhundersrolled,Andglorysparkledround.Hisflowingtrainofglitteringwhite,Thespacioustemplefilled;Theangels,dazzledatthesight,Withwingstheirfacesveiled.Aroundthethrone,inburningrow,Thesix-wingedseraphsstood;

Whilemillions,flyingtoandfro,TunedalltheirharpstoGod.Thriceholy,holy,Lord,theycry,TheGodofSabbath'sThou;Yourgloryfillstheworldsonhigh,Andfillstheworldbelow.'

TheSaviorisworshipedbysaintsonearth.Patriarchs,prophets,apostles, martyrs- the great and good of every age have paidHimhomage.Abraham,Lot,Moses,andDavidworshipedHim.Stephen,fulloftheHolySpirit,prayedtoHimamidashowerofstones, 'LordJesus,receivemyspirit.' 'Lord, laynot thissintotheircharge.'ThedyingthiefonthecrossprayedtoHim-'Lord,remembermewhenYoucomeintoYourKingdom.'PauloffereduphisferventprayerstotheLordJesusChrist,aswellastoGodthe Father. 'Now God Himself and our Father, and our LordJesusChrist,directourwayuntoyou.AndtheLordmakeyoutoincreaseandaboundinloveonetowardanother.''NowourLordJesusChristHimself,andGodourFather,whohaslovedus,andhas given us everlasting consolation and good hope throughgrace,comfortyourhearts,andestablishyouineverygoodwordand work.' 'For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that itmight depart from me.' 'Follow righteousness, faith, charity,peace,withthosewhocallontheLordoutofapureheart.''Withall that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ ourLord.' 'The same Lord over all, is rich unto all that call uponHim.' The New Testament closes with a prayer to the Savior;'evensocome,LordJesus.'

The Savior is worshiped by the redeemed in glory. And thisadoration will continue without interruption through theunceasing ages of eternity. In their songs of praise, theredeemedinhabitantsofthoseblessedmansionsinourFather'shouse, confess the Savior to be Lord, to the glory of God theFather.There,noonewithholdsfromHimthatrichrevenueofpraise which is due to His divine name. All those countlessmillions who walk the golden streets of the New Jerusalem,

arrayedintheresplendentrobesofsalvation,arerepresentedascastingtheircrownsatthefeetoftheLambinthemidstof thethrone,anduniting inonesublime,harmonioussongofpraisetotheglorifiedRedeemer.'WorthyistheLambwhowasslaintoreceivepower,andriches,andwisdom,andstrength,andhonor,and glory, and blessing. Blessing, and honor, and glory, andpower, be unto Him that sits upon the throne, and unto theLambforeverandever.''UntoHimwholovedus,andwashedusfrom our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings andpriestsuntoGodandHisFather;toHimbegloryanddominionforeverandever.Amen.'

Thuswesee,thatdivineworshipisrenderedtoChristinheavenand on earth. And in this exercise of religiousworship, whichhasreceivedtheapprovalandsanctionofGod,wealsosee thedivinity of the Savior and the excellency of His nature mostillustriouslydisplayed.'WorthytheLambforsinnersslain,Crytheredeemedabove,blessingandhonortoobtain,Andeverlastinglove!WorthytheLamb!onearthwesing,Whodiedoursoulstosave;Henceforth,ODeath,whereisyoursting?Yourvictory,Ograve?'

Here, an important practical question may be asked– Are werenderingreligiousworshiptotheSavior?DoweadoreHimasoverall,Godblessed forever?DoweHonorHimasourdivineRedeemer, by committing the keeping of our souls into Hishands,believingthatHeisabletopresentusfaultlessbeforethethroneoftheMajestyonhigh?IfweeverhopetoadmireHiminheaven, we must be willing to honor Him on earth; we mustcommence the worship of Jesus here, or else we shall neverlearn the 'new song' of the 'hundred and forty and fourthousand,whichwereredeemedfromtheearth.''Toil,trial,suffering,stillawait

Onearththepilgrimthrong;Yetlearnwe,inourlowestate,Thechurch'striumphantsong.

Howcanwehaveanysatisfactoryevidenceofourinterestinthejoysandblessednessofheaven,ifwearenot,liketheredeemedinglory,prostratingourselvesinhumbleadorationatthefeetofJesus,andgivingHimthepraise.'LordIuntilIreachthatblissfulshore,Noprivilegesodearshallbe,AsthusmyinmostsoultopourInprayertoThee.'

Oh,thateveryheartmightbedrawnbythebandsoflovetotheLamb of God, and at the foot of the cross adore Him withseraphic ardor for accomplishing the mighty plan ofredemption's work. Oh, that every tongue might speak thepraisesofHisdivinename,worldwithoutend. 'ThehumblingofoursoulsbeforetheLordChrist,fromanapprehensionofHisdivine excellencies- the ascription of glory, honor, praise,withthanksgiving unto Him, on the great motive of the work ofredemptionwiththeblessedeffectsthereof-arethingswhereinthe life of faith is continually exercised; nor can we have anyevidenceofaninterestinthatblessednesswhichconsistsintheeternalassigningofallgloryandpraiseuntoHiminheaven, ifwe arenot exercised unto thisworship ofHimhere on earth.'(JohnOwen)MayallbeneaththeskyUsurpmyheartnomore;Oh,bemyfirst,mychiefdelight,Mysoul'sunboundedstore.

BlessedJesus,grantuntomethetruespiritofprayer;enablemeto fixmy affections on You, and to seek the things which areabove.Oh,mayIreceiveYouasmyonlySavior-asOneinwhomdwells all theperfectionsof theGodhead.May I have grace tofeel from my inmost soul, that You are worthy to receive all

glory, and honor, and power; for you have redeemed us untoGodbyYourblood.DailyascribingtoYoualldivineperfectionsandexcellencies,may I pass thedays ofmy appointed time inYourfear,andbepreparedforYourserviceonhigh.Amidallthetribulations incident to humanity,may I invoke Your aid, andwith my last breath, be found, like Stephen, committing mydeparting spirit into Your divine hands. Oh, then, when thevalleyofmortalityispast,makemeapillarinthetempleofGod,to go no more out- to surround Your throne with unceasingsongsofpraise.

Oh!mayourpraisesnevercease,Whilejourneyingtowardstherealmsofpeace;WheresaintsinlovelieraccentsraiseAnever-endingsongofpraise.'InYoualltreasureslie,FromYouallblessingsflow;Youaretheblissofsaintsabove,Thejoyofsaintsbelow.OhcomeandmakemeYours,Asinnersavedbygrace;ThenshallIsingwithloudeststrainsInheaven,Yourdwelling-place.Whenstandingroundthethrone,Amidtheransomedthrong,YourpraiseshallbemysweetemployWhileloveinspiresmysong.'

Itmust afford thebeliever thepurest andmost sublime joy toknow that his Redeemer possesses all the perfections of thedivine nature; that He is the Creator and Preserver of theuniverse,and theproperobjectof religiousworship. It is trulyanimatingtobeassuredbydivinerevelation,thatoursalvationhasbeenaccomplishedbythisalmightyDeliverer,whoisnoneother than the Lord of glory- the eternal Son of God.We areredeemedtoagloriousimmortalitybythebloodofGodHimself.'FeedthechurchofGod,whichHehaspurchasedwithHisown

blood.'EstablishedinthefaithofChristJesus,theRockofAges,our final happiness is certain and complete.No one is able totear us fromHis arms. 'I will give unto them eternal life; andtheyshallneverperish,neithershallmanpluckthemoutofmyhand.'

In the delightful contemplation of our Savior's excellenciesweshouldspendmanyanhourofourearthlypilgrimage.Oh,howlittledoweknowofHispreciousness!Ifwecouldseehimwiththe eyeof faith in allHisbeauty anddesirableness, theworld,with its unsubstantial pleasures, would no longer hold asupreme place in our affection. We would live for a higherobject. To promote the divine glory on earth, and to enjoy atriuneGodinheaven,wouldbethegrandaimofourlives.Oh,then,aswe journey towards theshoresofaneternalworld, letus daily look into the Scriptures, and study Christ in theexcellencyofHisnatureandwork.TheclearerviewswehaveofHim,themorewewilladmireHim,andthemorewewillbelikeHim.LetuslabortohaveafamiliarcommunionwithHim.LetuspreferHimabovetheworldandallitsenjoyments.Thenwewillfeelthatheavenisourtruehome,andbepreparedforthoseholypleasuresandemploymentswhichareatGod'srighthand.Letusrememberthatagreatpartofthehappinessofthat'worldoflight',willconsistincontemplatingtheexcellenciesofadivineSavior, and in ascribingpraise toHimas theLamb slain fromthefoundationoftheworld-astheAuthorofeternalsalvation.Yonder,theheavenlythrongwillbeforeverengagedinstudyingandadmiringtheinfiniteperfections,andamazinggraceofHiminwhomarehiddenallthetreasuresofwisdomandknowledge.

AndifwewouldknowmoreaboutGod,wemustlooktoChrist,bywhomHeisrevealed.'NomanhasseenGodatanytime;theonly begotten Son,who is in the bosomof the Father,He hasdeclared Him.' How pleasantly would our earthly pilgrimagepass, if by faithwedaily studied the characterofChrist Jesus,who,tothetruebeliever,istheobjectofthestrongestaffectionand highest admiration!Oh,may our hearts bemore engaged

with His incomparable excellencies, viewing Him daily in thegloryofHisdivinenature;intheexcellencyofHiswork,inthefullnessofHisgrace,andintherevelationHehasmadeof thecharacterofGod;Hiswill respectingus,andHis amazing lovetowardsus.Ifthusexercisedallourlives,howpeacefulwouldbeourlatterend!HowwillingourdeparturetobewithChrist!Howjoyfuloureternity!

'Jesus,inYourtransportingnameWhatblissfulgloriesrise!Jesustheangels'sweetesttheme!Thewonderoftheskies!'

Blessed Savior, may our souls be filled with delight, whilemeditating on Your divine excellencies, and the wonderfulexhibition of Your redeeming grace. May we rejoice in theassurance, thatYouare theeternalSonofGod, equalwith theFatherinall theperfectionsofDeity.MayweadoreYouastheCreatoroftheuniverseandtheRedeemeroftheworld.MaywefeelthatYouarepreciousinYourPersonandinYourwork;andprize You above all things. Oh, may our hearts glow withseraphiclovetoYou,ourSavior,whenwethinkofYouramazingcompassionforsinners,which ledYoutoforsakethebosomofthe Father, and the adoration of the heavenly host, for themangerofBethlehem,andthecrossofCalvary!Grant, thatwemaybefavoredwithmanyaglimpseofYourglory;thatwemayknowmoreandmoreaboutYourunsearchableriches,untilwearefittedforthathappyworld,whereYoushall foreverappearas the morning Star, the Sun of Righteousness, shining withundimmedsplendor.Oh,maywebefounddailycontemplatingYoubyfaithasourdivineandexaltedRedeemer,renderinguntoYouallglory,honor,andthanksgiving,untilfaithisturnedintosight,andhopeintofruition-untilwebeholdYouintheupperParadise,andpraiseYourname,withsaintsandangels,throughthevastagesoffelicity.

'Jesus,IloveYourcharmingname,

'Tismusictomyear;SincerelywouldIsounditoutsoloudThatheavenandearthshouldhear.Yes,Youareprecioustomysoul,Mytransportandmytrust;JewelstoYouaregaudytoys,Andgoldissordiddust.Allmycapaciouspowerscanwish,InYoudorichlymeet:Nortomineeyesislightsodear,Norfriendshiphalfsosweet.Yourgracestilldwellsuponmyheart,Andshedsitsfragrancethere;Thenoblestbalmofallitswounds,Thecordialofitscare.I'llspeakthehonorsofYournameWithmylastlaboringbreath;Then,speechless,claspYouinmyarms.Theantidoteofdeath.

THESAVIORINHISINCARNATION

'Messiahcomes!youruggedpathsbeplain;TheShilohcomes,youtoweringcedarsbend;Swellforth,youvalleys;and,yourocks,descend;Thewitheredbranchletbalmyfruitsadorn,Andclusteringrosestwinetheleaflessthorn;Burstforth,youvocalgroves,yourjoytotell-TheGodofPeaceredeemsHisIsrael.'

'AndtheWordwasmadeflesh,anddweltamongus.''HerewemaybeholdDeityincarnate:Godmanifestedinhumannature! Turn aside, and see this great sight: contemplate this

objectwith fixedattention,untilyourheart is suitablyaffectedbythecontemplation:gazewiththeeyeoffaithonthisbrighter"Morning Star," gaze on this nobler "Sun of Righteousness,"untileverysublunaryobjectiseclipsedbyitssuperiorsplendor.'-RobertHall

Hark,thegladsound!theSaviorcomes!TheSaviorpromisedlong!Leteveryheartprepareathrone,Andeveryvoiceasong.Hecomestheprisonerstorelease,InSatan'sbondageheld;Thegatesofbrassbeforehimburst,Theironfettersyield.Hecomesthebrokenhearttobind,Thebleedingsoultocure,AndwiththetreasuresofHisgraceToenrichthehumblepoor.OurgladHosannas,PrinceofPeace,Yourwelcomeshallproclaim;Andheaven'seternalarchesringWithYourbelovedname.-Doddridge

Thebesttidingseverbroughtfromthethroneofheaventothisguilty,lostworld,wastheannouncementof theadventofOne,whosegloriousmissionwastoredeemsinnersfromeverlastingwoe,andtocrownthemwithimmortalglorybeyondtheshoresof time. If there isa theme, in thecontemplationofwhichourheartsshouldfeelmostgratefultoourHeavenlyFather,itisthismysteryofGodliness; the incarnationof theonlybegottenSonofGod;Godmanifested in the flesh-amysteryofwisdomandlove,ofwhichtheworldcannotfurnishaparallel.Aswearetherecipients of all those rich favors which accompany themanifestation of the Savior in our nature, is it not reasonablethat we should feel most interested in a subject so extremelyimportant?It isasubjectwhichwillaffordusthemostrefinedpleasureonearth,andthemostrapturousjoyinheaven.Ifthe

holyangelsascribepraiseandglorytoGodfortheincarnationofour blessed Savior, should not man raise a louder song ofpraise? -man, to whom such goodness is so wondrouslymanifested in thegiftofJesus.Oh, letusdrawnear,andviewthismarvelouswork,whichwilleternallyexcitethewonderandadmiration of glorified saints, and be the source of their pureand lasting joys. Let us with gratitude and reverencecontemplate the incarnation of the blessed Jesus. Let us gazewith the eye of the Christian on the Bright andMorning Stararisinginourworldofsinandwretchedness,bringingpeaceandsalvation to our souls, and telling us of a glorious immortalitybeyondthegrave.

Blessed Jesus, while the world follows after its delusivepleasureswiththeeyeclosedtothebeautiesofYourPerson,andtheearstoppedtothesoundofthegloriousgospel,andthelipssealedtothesweetsongoftheredeemed,mayitbeourdelightto dwell on the incomparable excellencies of Your nature, themysteriesofYourincarnation,andtherichesofYourgrace.

THE CONDITION OF OUR FIRST PARENTS AFTER THEIRFALL.Manwascreatedaholyandhappybeing,andplacedinaterrestrial paradise of surpassing beauty, where he hadeverything his heart could wish or enjoy. In his pristineinnocencethesweetestcommunionexistedbetweenhimandhisbeneficent Creator. The heavens were beneficent, while peaceandharmonyreignedonearth.Therewasnocommotionoftheelements of nature- no wasting and destruction- no moralimpurity- no disease- no death. Sin had not yet entered theblissfulbowersofEdentoexpelmanfromparadise,andtocoverearthwithsignsofwoe.Howlongourfirstparentscontinuedintheirstateoforiginalblessedness,wearenotinformed;butweknow that the fearful hour of temptation came- that theydisobeyed the Divine command, and sinned against God byeatingtheforbiddenfruit.ThefallofAdaminvolvedthewholeworldinruin,andwoe,anddeath.'Byonemansinenteredintotheworld,anddeathbysin;andsodeathpasseduponallmen,

for all have sinned.' From this fearful state of sin andmiserymanwasunabletoextricatehimself.HecouldnotpayuntoGodasufficientransom;henceallseemedtobehopelessandlost.Itwas utterly impossible for him to answer thatmost importantinquiry: 'What canwe bring to the Lord tomake up for whatwe've done? Should we bow before God with offerings ofyearlingcalves?Shouldweofferhimthousandsoframsandtensofthousandsofriversofoliveoil?WouldthatpleasetheLord?Shouldwesacrificeourfirstbornchildrentopayforthesinsofoursouls?Wouldthatmakehimglad?'UnlessDivinejusticeissatisfied,theviolatedlawfulfilled,andthesinnerrestoredtothefavor of God, the whole human race must be consigned to aplace of irretrievable misery, prepared for the fallen angels,wherenocheering rayofhope shall ever enter; aplace,whoseblacknessofdarknessnoSunofRighteousnessshalleverdispel.

Oh,howfearfulthenwasthestateofourfirstparentsafterthefall,beforeaSaviorwaspromised,whilethedooroflifewasyetclosed!Howpoignantmust have been their grief for the past!How fearful their forebodings of the future! Ah! where couldthey turn for help when they had incurred the divinedispleasure,andlostcommunionwiththeirMaker?Theysawnoway of escape. While they were continually exposed toinnumerable misfortunes through life, the thought ofapproachingdeathwouldappallthem-thethoughtofthefearfulretributionofeternitywoulddrinkuptheirearthlyjoy.'Thusallthe prospects were dark and desolate. A desert of ruin spreadimmeasurablyaroundthem,withoutahabitationtowhichtheymightbetakethemselvesforshelter,orevenafriendlyhermittopoint out a hopeful end to their melancholy pilgrimage. Overtheir heads extended, without limits, a dreary and perpetualnight,inwhichnolamplightedtheirbewilderedpath,andnotastar, not a ray of hope or comfort twinkled through the vastgloomofsorrowanddespair.'

PROMISESANDPREDICTIONSOFASAVIOR.Whileourfirstparents were in this forlorn condition, which has been briefly

depicted, the glorious gospel revelation was made known tothem.EvenbeforetheirexpulsionfromtheGardenofEden,thetidings of a Savior were conveyed to them in the cheeringpromise, that the seedof thewomanwouldbruise theheadofthe serpent. How truly amazing was this revelation; and howgreatmusthavebeen thegratitude it inspired in thebosomoftheparentsofthehumanrace!Hereweseethewondrousplanofredeemingloveunfolded,andthegatesoftheupperandmoregloriousParadiseopened to anapostate race.Here,webeholdthestreamofdivinemercycommencingitscourseonearth-thatstreamwhichnowrollsamighty river,makingglad thecityofGod, and bringing immortal life and felicity tomyriads of thehumanfamily.'Thespringofthesewatersofsalvation,hiddeninthecounselsofGodbeforetimebegan,wasopenedimmediatelyafter the fall, andbegan to flow in a small but reviving brook.Increasing by degrees, and from the very beginning, makingevery place it passed through fertile and pleasant, it soonbecamealargestream.Atlengththemaincurrentofthegospelflowedin,andnowitrollsonfullofwater,greatlyenrichingtheearth,apureriverofwaterof life, clearascrystal; thestreamswhereofmake glad the city of God, and shall do so, until thisriveremptiesitselfintotheoceanofeternity.'

Thepromiseof aSaviorwasdefinitelymade to thepatriarchs.TheheartofAbraham,thefatherofthefaithful,wasgladdenedby thepromise ofMessiah, expressed in thesewords: 'In yourseedshallallthenationsoftheearthbeblessed.'Thisillustriouspatriarch saw by the eye of faith the Savior in His divinepilgrimage on earth, and the rising glories of His mediatorialkingdom. 'Your father Abraham,' says Christ to the Jews,'rejoicedtoseemyday;andhesawit,andwasglad.'

The advent of our Savior is also the grand theme of prophecythroughout the Old Testament. The testimony of Jesus is thespiritofprophecy.Andoh,thatHe,towhomsomanyof thosepredictionsrefer,wouldopenourunderstanding,asHedidthatof the disciples of old, that we may understand those things

whicharewrittenin'thelawofMoses,andintheprophets,andinthepsalms,'concerningHim!ThelastwordsofJacobcontainaprophecyofthecomingofChrist.'ThescepterwillnotdepartfromJudah,northeruler'sstafffromhisdescendants,untilthecomingoftheonetowhomitbelongs,theonewhomallnationswill obey.'Mosesprophesies ofChrist Jesus, the trueProphet,whomGodwastoraiseupforthesalvationofIsrael.'TheLordYourGodwillraiseupuntoyouaProphetfromthemidstofyou,fromyourbrethren,likeuntome;untoHimyoushallhearken.'Isaiah, in his sublime visions, speaks most distinctly of thecomingofaSavior,andthegrandcharacteristicsofHispersonalministry on earth- the peaceful, flourishing, and gloriouscondition ofHis kingdom amongmen. 'For unto us a child isborn,untousasonisgiven;andthegovernmentshallbeuponhis shoulders; and his name shall be called Wonderful,Counselor,ThemightyGod,theeverlastingFather,thePrinceofPeace.''Behold,avirginshallconceive,andbearason,andshallcall his name Emmanuel.' 'And the Redeemer shall come toZion,anduntothosewhoturnfromtransgressioninJacob,saystheLord.''Behold,theLordhasproclaimeduntotheendoftheworld, Say to the daughter of Zion, Behold, your salvationcomes; behold, His reward is with Him and His work beforeHim.''Saytothosewhoareofafearfulheart,Bestrong,fearnot;behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with arecompense; He will come and save you.' Zechariah alsoprophesiesoftheMessiah,andcallsupontheChurchtorejoicegreatly for His coming. 'Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion;shout,OdaughterofJerusalem:behold,yourKingcomesuntoyou:Heisjust,andhavingsalvation;lowly,andridinguponandonkey,anduponacolt,thefoalofandonkey.'

DanielforetellsnotonlytheappearanceofMessiah,butfixestheverydateofHis advent. 'Know therefore andunderstand, thatfrom the going forth of the commandment to restore and tobuildJerusalemuntoMessiahthePrinceshallbesevenweeks,and three-score and twoweeks.' The Psalmist, in lofty strains,sings of the coming of Christ in His kingdom. 'Blessed be He

that comes in the name of the Lord.' Haggai, inmost expressterms,speaksofthecomingofourGreatDeliverer,theDesireofall nations, before the destruction of the second temple; andshows that His presence would give to that temple a greaterglory than was ever given to the former one, the magnificenttempleofSolomon.'Thedesireofallnationsshallcomeandwillfillthishousewithglory,saystheLordofhosts.Thegloryofthislatterhouseshallbegreaterthanoftheformer,saystheLordofHosts;andinthisplacewillIgivepeace,saystheLordofHosts.'HowwelldoesthiscorrespondwiththecharacterofHimwhoiscalled the Prince of Peace; of the increase of His governmentandpeacethereshallbenoend;ofHim,whocametoguideourfeetintothewayofpeace,andwhohassaid,PeaceIleavewithyou,mypeaceIgiveuntoyou!TheconcludingwordsoftheOldTestamentcontainamostremarkablepredictionofthecomingof the Lord Jesus, theMessenger of the everlasting covenant.'Behold,IwillsendmyMessenger,andheshallpreparethewaybeforeme:andtheLord,whomyouseek,shallsuddenlycometoHis temple, even the Messenger of the covenant, whom youdelightin;behold,Heshallcome,saystheLordofhosts.'Butletusnow turn to theaccomplishmentof thesepredictions in theappearanceofJesusofNazareth.

THE BIRTH OF THE SAVIOR. When the time for theaccomplishment of the prophecies respecting His adventarrived, our Savior actually appeared in the humble garb ofhumanity, and commencedHis reign of peace upon the earth.How delightful to contemplate an event of such joy to thehumanrace!Andhere, letusviewwithfixedattentionsomeofthe circumstances connected with the manifestation of sogloriousaPerson, and sogreat aDeliverer.Lookingbackoverthe land of Palestinemore than eighteen centuries ago, let usthink of that peaceful night in which the Prince of Peace, theLord of Glory, made His appearance in human nature- thatnight in which new songs were heard over the plains ofBethlehem-thatevermemorablenight.

Thefullnessoftimehadcome,whentheSonofGodistobesentforth to redeemaworld lying in sin. 'Butwhen the fullness oftimewascome,GodsentforthHisSon,madeofawoman,madeunderthelaw,toredeemthosewhowereunderthelaw,thatwemightreceive theadoptionofsons.'The longexpecteddayhasat length dawned to gladden and bless the world. Among theJews of that time, many were 'waiting for the consolation ofIsrael'- the promised Messiah. To the pious and venerableSimeonitwasrevealed,'thatheshouldnotseedeath,beforehehadseentheLord'sChrist.'AboutthetimeoftheSavior'sbirthageneralexpectationprevailedamongtheJews,thatthecomingoftheMessiahwasathand.NorwasthisopinionconfinedtotheJewishnation: it extendedover a portion of the gentileworld.Romanpoetsofthatagesingofthecomingofanextraordinaryperson, who should gain universal dominion, and restore thegolden age of terrestrial bliss.Romanhistorians also allude tothesamegeneralexpectation.

TheSaviorwasborninBethlehem,thecityofDavid,duringthereignoftheRomanEmperor,AugustusCaesar.TheplaceofHisbirthhadbeen longbeforepredictedby theprophetMicah, intheseremarkablewords-'Butyou,BethlehemEphratah,thoughyouarelittleamongthethousandsofJudah,yetoutofyoushallHecomeforthuntomethatistoberulerinIsrael;whosegoingsforth have been from of old, from everlasting.' How strikinglywasthisfulfilled!Augustus,havingresolvedtolevyataxontheJewish nation, issues a decree requiring all the inhabitants ofJudeatoenrolltheirnamesforthispurpose.Incompliancewiththis command, Joseph andMary, the parents of Christ, go upfrom Nazareth, where they lived, to Bethlehem, the town inwhichtheirfamilyregisterwaskept.Andwhiletheywerethere,amidthecrowdsofstrangerswhohadassembledtobeenrolled,theSavioroftheworldwasborn.UndercircumstancesofgreatvoluntaryabasementdoesHeentertheworld.He,whois trulythe Father of the everlasting ages, and who now becomes anInfantofdays,isfoundwrappedinswaddlingclothes,andlyinginamanger;becausetherewasnoroomintheinn.Ah!blessed

Jesus, the world has no room for You; the depraved heart ofman has no place for You; You are despised and rejected bythosewhohavetheirportion in this life.To themYouareasarootoutofadryground-withoutformorloveliness-havingnobeauty in their eyes.What ingratitude do You daily receive attheirhands for such infinite condescension and love!Oh,maywegiveYouareadyandjoyfulwelcome,whileothersrejectYouand treat Youwith contempt.Maywe openwide the doors ofourhearts,andearnestlycry-'Comein,blessedoftheLord;whydoyoustandoutside?'AndOh,maytherebealwaysroominourheartstoentertainYou,ourblessedLordandRedeemer.

The glad tidings of the Savior's birth were announced by theangeloftheLordtotheshepherds,watchingovertheirflocksbynight,ontheplainsofBethlehem.Thesehumble,piousmenareat first thrown into the greatest consternation at the suddenappearanceoftheheavenlymessenger,andthegloryoftheLordshiningroundthem;buttheirfearisbanished,andtheirheartscheered, when the celestial messenger communicates to themthe joyful tidings of life and immortality through a new-bornSavior.Never beforewas such an announcementmade.Neverbefore were such cheering tidings borne to the ears of aperishing world. Oh! let them be speedily published througheveryland,andresoundedfromshoretoshore.

'Andtheangelsaiduntothem,Fearnot:for,behold,Ibringyougoodtidingsofgreat joy,whichshallbetoallpeople.Foruntoyouisbornthisday,inthecityofDavid,aSavior,whoisChristthe Lord.'Oh,what blessed tidings are these! Tidings of greatjoynotonlytotheJewishnation,butalsototheGentileworld-toallnations,andkindreds,andpeople,andtongues.TheStarofBethlehemnowshines- theSunofRighteousnesshas risen-Jesus is born! A Savior has come to redeem man from thebondage of sin, and the punishment of the divine law; and torestorehimtoParadise;toadvancehimtofarhigherseatsthanthoseofearthlyoriginalbliss-tobringhimtoacelestialhomeofseraphicjoys,far,farbeyondthosebrilliantlampswhichlighten

the nocturnal sky. Yes, He has come, whose royal titles are:WonderfulCounselor,MightyGod,EverlastingFather,PrinceofPeace.What cause for holy joy is here! Can heaven and earthkeepsilentattheadventofsogloriousandillustriousaPerson,who comes on a mission of infinite goodness at which angelsthemselves are lost in astonishment? Let the universe sing forjoy.'Sing,Oheavens,fortheLordhasdonethiswondrousthing!Shout,Oearth!Breakforthintosong,Omountainsandforestsandeverytree!FortheLordhasredeemedJacobandisglorifiedinIsrael.'

Hark!what soundsare thosewhichareborne fromonhigh totheearsofthetremblingshepherds?Thereismusicintheskies.Allheavenismadevocalbythesong.Doyounothearit?Howsweetlydothosesounds fallupontheear! It is thesongof theheavenlyhost,resoundingamongthehillsofJudea,celebratingtherisinggloriesofJacob'sStar, in 'ahymnmorenoble,moredivine, than had ever before proceeded from their lips.'Suddenly a great companyof theheavenlyhost appearedwiththeangel,praisingGodandsaying,"GlorytoGodinthehighest,andonearthpeacetomenonwhomhisfavorrests.'Hark!whatthoseholyvoicesmean-Sweetlysoundingthroughtheskies?Lo!theangelichostrejoices;Heavenlyhallelujahsrise.Listentothewondrousstory,Whichtheychantinhymnsofjoy:'Gloryinthehighest;glory!GlorybetoGodmosthigh!Christisborn,theGreatAnointed,HeavenandearthHispraisessing;Oh,receivewhomGodappointed,ForyourProphet;Priest,andKing!'

Wellmightthoseholyangelsrejoice,whenthewisdom,justice,holiness, power, andmercy ofGod,were to be so illustriouslydisplayed in the wondrous plan of redemption, by the

incarnation,life,suffering,death,resurrection,andintercessionofJesus.Andhere,letuspauseforamoment,andreflectonthecopiousmatteroftheangelicsong.Itisasongwhichtheangels,and the spirits of just men made perfect, are now singing inyonderworldoflightandlove-theParadiseofGod.Itisanewsong,andwillalwaysbenewtotheinhabitantsofheaven.

Itsfirstnoteis,GlorytoGodinthehighest.Inthesalvationofeverysoul,glory isbrought toGod,onearthand inheaven- intime, and through eternity. Of those reclaimed by grace, it issaid:'ThispeoplehaveIformedformyself;theyshallshowforthmypraise.''I amglorified in them.' 'WhenHe shall come tobeglorified in His saints, and to be admired in all those whobelieve.' If the angels rejoice over the conversion of a singlesinner,because thegloryofGod is advancedby thewonderfulmethodofgrace,whatrejoicingwilltherebeamongthemwhenthewhole company of the redeemed are brought home to thecelestialMountZion, to standas eternalmonuments of divinegrace before the throne of God! Then will the sweet, sublimeangelic song of 'Glory to God in the highest' forever resoundamongthehillsofParadise.Oh,howtheangels lovetoseetheglory of their divine Lord advanced by the wondrous andmysterious plan of redemption! And shall not man, whosenature Jesus assumed, and whose salvation He came toaccomplish,raiseamoreexaltedsong?ThepromotionofGod'sglory should be the grand aim of our lives.We should glorifyHimbyreceivingHisblessedSonasourSavior;andoursongsofpraise forsounspeakableagift shouldbeeverascending totheMostHigh.'ThanksbeuntoGodforHisunspeakablegift.'

In their sublimeandharmonioussong theangelsascribeglorytoGodinthehighest.Thiswemayunderstandasacalluponalltheinhabitantsofthecelestialregionstorender, inthehighestdegree,glorytoGodwhodwellsinthehighestheavens,forthisgreatest manifestation of divine mercy- the love of God tosinners.'Atthebirthofnature,thesonsofGod,theangelssangtogether,andshoutedforjoy;butwhentheAuthorandLordof

natureisborn,letthemraisealoftierandmoreecstaticanthemofpraise.'Here,letthemtunetheirharpsanew,andsingofthedivineglory.

Butobservethelastnotesofthisangelicsong:'onearthpeacetomen on whom his favor rests.' How expressive of the grandobject of the Savior'smission to the world!He came tomakepeace betweenGod andman. This objectHe accomplished byHis holy life of obedience to the divine law, and His atoningsacrifice on Calvary. It is the atoning blood of Christ, whichspeakspeacetotheguilty,troubledconscienceofthosewho,byfaith,applyto it forrelief.OfallwhoareguidedtotheblessedSavior,itmaytrulybesaid,'Theirpeaceshallbeasariver;theirrighteousnessasthewavesofthesea.'MostemphaticallyisourRedeemer the Prince of Peace; and most gloriously has Heproclaimed peace to the enemies of God. 'He makes wars toceaseuntotheendoftheearth.''InHisdaysshalltherighteousflourish:andabundanceofpeacesolongasthemoonendures.''Andtheworkofrighteousnessshallbepeace;andtheeffectofrighteousness,quietnessandassuranceforever.'

Whiledwellinginthisworld,wheretumult,hostility,anddeadlyconflict prevail, our blessed Savior continually breathedwordsofpeaceandgood-willtomen;andwhenHewasabouttoleavethesesin-stainedshores,andreturntoHisFather'shouseabove,oneof the farewellblessingsHebequeathed tohis friendswaspeace.'PeaceIleavewithyou,MypeaceIgiveuntoyou.'Yes,"Peace"wasthewordourSaviorbreathedWhenfromourworldHisstepswithdrew;ThegiftHetoHisfriendsbequeathed,WithCalvaryandtheCrossinview;Redeemer!withadoringloreOurspiritstakeYourrichbequest,Thewatchwordofthehostabove,Thepassporttotheirrealmofrest.

After the choir of angels had sung their nocturnal song at the

birth of Jesus, they returned to their home above, where theyseethefaceofGod,andsingHispraiseevermore.Assoonasthesound of the heavenly harps dies away, and all is again stillaroundthem,theshepherdsresolvetogotoBethlehem,andseethe thing which the Lord hadmade known unto them. Theretheyfindthenew-bornSavior,astheangelleadtoldthem,lyingin amanger. There they find the true Shepherd of Israel- thegreatShepherdofthesheep.Withwhatwonderandadmirationdo they gaze upon this Babe of Bethlehem!With what joy dothey fall down and worship Him as their Savior!NotwithstandingthelowlycircumstancesofHisbirth,theylookupon Him as the Savior of the world. They received theannouncementoftheheavenlymessengerastrue;andnowtheoilofgladness ispoured into theirhearts. In theiroverflowingjoy,theyarereadytojointheangelsintheirnewhymnofpraisefor the incarnation of the Son of God. After witnessing themysterious scene of Bethlehem, they, at first, publish the gladtidings abroad, and then return to their flocks, glorifying andpraising God. 'And the shepherds returned, glorifying andpraisingGodforallthethingsthattheyhadheardandseen,asitwastolduntothem.'

AmostremarkablephenomenonattendingtheSavior'sentranceinto theworldwas theappearanceof anextraordinary star, orluminary, in the heavens, which seems to leave had no otherwork nor motion, but to tell of Him and lead to Him. Thismiraculous star, appearing in the East, attracted the Magi toJerusalem,with this inquiry, 'Where is he that is born king oftheJews?forwehaveseenhisstarintheEast,andhavecometoworshiphim.'OnleavingJerusalem,intheirsearchforthenew-bornkingof Israel, thewisemenwereagaingladdenedwithasight of the star, which seems to have disappeared from theirviewforsometime.'Andlo,thestar,whichtheysawintheeast,wentbeforethem,untilitcameandstoodoverwheretheyoungchildwas.Whentheysawthestar,theyrejoicedwithexceedinggreatjoy.'Herethequestionsverynaturallyarise,Whatledthewisemen

tobelieve that this star indicated thebirthof amightyking inJudea?What induced them to undertake their journey for thepurpose of finding Him, and paying Him homage? It is theopinion of some critics, that their persuasion arose fromBalaam's prophecy of the star that should come out of Jacob.Collyer, in his Lectures on Scripture Prophecy, says: 'It isdifficulttoaccountforthecomingofthewisemenfromtheEastto Jerusalem, in searchof Jesus, at the birth of ourLord, hadnotthisprophecybeenwellknown,atleasttraditionally,intheircountry,andunderstood to refer to theadventof theMessiah,thenuniversallyanobjectofgreateroroflessexpectation...Itcan scarcely be doubted that Balaam's prophecies then stillprevailed among "the Mountains of the East," and that theseSages understood this luminous appearance in the heavens torefer to Him, whom Balaam called "the STAR of Jacob."' Thepious Leighton, however, believes that they were divinelyinstructed regarding the grand object for which this starappeared;andinhisopinionmostwillcoincide.'Iconceive,'hesays,'alltheirskillinastronomy,andBalaam'sprophecyofthestarinJacob,andthetraditionoftheMessiahandHisstar,andseersprophesyingofthem,couldnotmakethelanguageofthisstarthusclearandintelligibletothem.Therewasnodoubt,anextraordinary darting in of a higher light into their minds,clearerthanthatofthestar,tomakeitsmeaningcleartothem,andtodrawthemforthtothisjourney.'

Wehaveseen,thatwhenthestarre-appearedtothewisemen,they'rejoicedwithexceedinggreatjoy.'Whatwastherealcauseofthisjoy?DiditnotarisefromthebeliefthattheywereabouttoseethesalvationofGod?Bythere-appearanceofthestar,didthey not have a visible token of the divine presence, and feelassured that their journey would terminate successfully? -thattheywould soonbehold thenew-bornKingof Israel,now thatthisnewandbrightstarwasguidingthemonward?

Whatafineillustrationwehavehereofthefeelingswhichexistill thenewlyregeneratedman,wherespiritual lightshines into

his soul, guidinghim to Jesus, and to an eternal day of glory!Suchaonerejoiceswithexceedinggreatjoy-ajoyunspeakableand full of glory. It is this divine illumination from heaven,shiningwithinthesoul, thathascausedbelievers inallages torejoice, like the wise men, with exceeding great joy. It hasemboldened them in the hour of danger, made them takejoyfully the spoiling of their goods, and enabled them to singaloudforjoyamidtheflamesofpersecution.

AreyoufollowingtheguidanceofthestarofBethlehemthroughthedarkwildernessoflife?Ifyouare,youwillbeledtotheSunof Righteousness; you will find Jesus; and your heart shallrejoice;andyourjoynomancantakefromyou.Andina littlewhile, your eyes shall behold the King of Zion, your exaltedSavior, in the heavenly mansions, where his glory will be nomoreveiledasitwasonearth.Thisblessedvisionmaybeverynear.The sight of your Father's house above,may be ready toopen upon your enraptured view. Angels may be waiting toconductyourhappysoultothegloriouspresenceofKingJesus,whonowreignsonheaven'shighest,brightestthrone.Youmaybeabouttositdownamongthatransomedthrong,whoarenowbeholding the glory ofHim, whowas born in Bethlehem, andcrucified on Calvary. You may be about to gaze upon thatcountenancewhichnow shines as the sun- to see those handswhichwereforyounailedtothecross-tohearthatvoice,whichalone can speakpardonandpeace to the guilty, troubled soul.Oh,letusbethankfulforthatspirituallightwhichpointsustosuch untold blessedness: and let our joy increase more andmore,asbyfaithweseetheStarofMorning,guidingustogloryand immortality. 'Exult in his holy name;Oworshipers of theLord,rejoice!'

WhenthewisemenfindtheSaviortheyfalldown,andworshipHim. Notwithstanding the low and unhonored condition inwhich they seeHim, they at once prostrate themselves inHispresencewithgratefulhearts,payinghomagetoHisname,andpresentinguntoHimgifts; gold, and frankincense, andmyrrh.

Whatanobleexampleisherepresentedtous!Whenwefindtheblessed Jesus, we should acknowledge His majesty, worshipHim as our divine Savior, while, at the same time, we shouldgive Him the strongest affections of our hearts, and the bestservices of our lives. We should present our bodies a livingsacrifice, holy, acceptable unto Him, which is our reasonableservice.WeshouldhonorHimwithoursubstance,andwiththefirst-fruitsofallourincrease.CountingnothingtoovaluabletobewithheldfromHim,weshouldbeready,ifnecessary,topartwith life itself for the sake of Him who, in His incomparablemercy, laid downHis own precious life for us, that we mightnever experience the seconddeath- thatwemight be crownedwithablissfulimmortality.Letusnowmuseuponsomeofthosegreattruthswhicharefoundedonthesubjectofthisessay;andmay we contemplate these sacred things with reverentialesteem; and with our affections elevated above the transitoryobjectsaroundus.

THE DIVINE CONSTITUTION OF THE PERSON OF THESAVIOR AS GOD-MAN. That 'the Word was made flesh, anddweltamongus,'isawonderfulthought-agreatmysterywhichcanneverbefullyunraveled.Butthisisoneofthemostpreciousdoctrinesof theBible; and the sourceof theChristian'spurestand most rapturous joy. That the eternal Son of God reallyassumedhumannatureintopersonalsubsistencewithHimself,isadoctrinemostexplicitlytaughtintheScriptures;andhappyare we, if we can rest our belief on the plain teachings of theWordofGod,rejectingallhumanopinionswhicharecontrarytothe pure Gospel revelation. The following passages prove thetruth of our declaration, that Christ actually assumed humannature'GodsendingHisownSoninthelikenessofsinfulflesh,andforsin,condemnedsinintheflesh.' 'Butwhenthefullnessof the time was come, God sent forth His Son, made of awoman.' 'ConcerningHis Son Jesus Christ our Lord, whowasmadeof the seedofDavidaccording to the flesh.' 'Forasmuch,then,as the children are partakers of flesh andblood,He alsoHimselflikewisetookpartofthesame.FortrulyHetooknoton

Him the nature of angels; but He took on Him the seed ofAbraham.' 'Who, being in the form of God, thought it notrobbery to be equal with God; but made Himself of noreputation,andtookuponHimthe formofaservant,andwasmade in the likeness ofmen; and being found in fashion as aman,He, humbledHimself, and became obedient unto death,eventhedeathof thecross.'ThusdidJesusChrist, theEternalWord, thesecondPersonof theGodhead,most trulyassumeahuman soul and a human body, humbling Himself in a mostastonishing manner, and yielding himself to sorrows, tosufferings,andtothedeathofthecrossforus.

With respect to the glorious union of the divine and humannature in the Person of our adorable Redeemer, His name iscalled by the prophet 'wonderful.'He iswonderful not only intheconstitutionofHisPersonasGodandmanintwonatures,butalsoinHisofficesandrelationstous-inthemanifestationofHisunsearchablerichestothechildrenofmen.Hiswholelifeonearthwasalifeofwonders.HeisWonderfulinHislove,inHissympathy,inHismeekness,inHishumility,inHispatience,inHiswisdom,inHisdoctrines,inHismiracles,inHissufferings,inHis death, in His resurrection, in His ascension to heaven,and in His intercession at the right hand of God. He will bewonderful in His second coming; and through the ages ofeternityHisnamewillstillbecalled'wonderful.'

In the union of the divine andhumannature in thePerson ofChrist, there is no confusion; each nature retains its ownessential qualities distinct; and both constitute one mostwonderful and glorious Person, who is truly Emmanuel, Godwithus,God inournature.ByHisbeingmanifest in the flesh,ChristlostnothingofHisessentialglory,greatness,majesty,anddominion. His assuming our nature caused no change in HisdivinePerson.WhileHewalked through this valleyof tears inthelikenessofmen,intheformofaservant,HewasastrulythebrightnessofHisFather'sglory,and theSupremeRulerof theuniverse,asHenowis,whileenthronedinthebosomofcelestial

bliss amid the heavenly throng, adored by seraphim andcherubim,andthespiritsofthejustmadeperfect.

And, asHe is trulyGod, soHe is trulyman! 'Wherefore in allthingsitbehoovedHimtobemadelikeuntoHisbrethren;thatHe might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in thingspertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of thepeople.''JesusofNazareth,amanapprovedofGod.'Oneof thetitleswhichtheSaviorlovedtoapplytoHimself, inthedaysofHispersonalministry,wasthatofthe 'Sonofman'- 'theSonofmanwhocamedownfromheaven'; 'theSonofmanwhocameto seek and to save that which was lost.' Christ assumed ournature,withallitssinlessinfirmities.Hehasahumanheart,tofeel for thewoes ofmankind. 'Forwe have not an high priestwhichcannotbetouchedwiththefeelingofourinfirmities.'LikeusHewassubjecttohungerandthirst,coldandheat,wearinessand sorrow. But oh, whose sorrows were ever like unto Hissorrows?Who ever agonized like the Sufferer of Gethsemane?WhoeverenduredsuchadeathasthatoftheManofCalvary?

'Likeusaman,Hetrodonearthlysoil,Heboreeachpang,andstroveinwearytoil;Hespokewithhumanwords,withpitysighed;LikeusHemourned,andfeared,andwept,anddied.'

TheGrandDesignoftheSavior'sINCARNATION.Itwasforthepurpose of saving sinners, that Christ came from heaven toearth.HearHisownemphaticdeclaration: 'Ihavenotcometocall the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.' 'For the Son ofmanhascometoseekandtosavethatwhichwaslost.''Thisisafaithful saying, andworthy of all acceptance, thatChrist Jesuscame into the world to save sinners.' How glorious was theobjectofHismission to earth!He came thatwemight find inHimahiding-placefromthestormandtempestofdivinewrath,which is ready to break over an ungodly world. He came toproclaimtheacceptableYearoftheLord-tobreakthechainsofsin,andtobruiseSatanunderourfeet;toopentheprisondoors,

andtoconferonus theglorious libertyof thechildrenofGod.Hecametoenrichourimpoverishedsoulswithallspiritualandheavenly blessings; to lead us beside the still waters of divinegrace; to implant holy desires in our hearts; to elevate ouraffections above a vain and perishingworld; to clothe uswiththegarmentsof salvation; togiveuntouswhomourn inZion,beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment ofpraiseforthespiritofheaviness;tofeeduswithlivingbread;toopen for us a fountain of immortal life; to pour outHis Spiritupon us; to guide us to the shores of Emmanuel's land; toreceive us tomansions of everlasting joy and glory in heaven.Whatagreatworkisthis,whichChristcametoaccomplish!

The salvation of sinners- the conferring of endless happinessuponmyriadsofourguiltyrace,whomightjustlyhavebeenlefttoreapthefruitoftheirtransgressionwiththefallenangels,intheregionsofeternaldarknessanddespair.Whocantellwhatitis to be delivered from the thralldom of sin, and the fearfulrealities of the seconddeath; to be reinstated in the favor andloveofGod;andtobecrownedwiththeimperishablediademofbeautyandglorythroughthoseinfiniteagesofbliss,whichrollbeyondthegrave!

All thatourblessedSaviordidonearthwastoaccomplishthisgreatworkofredemption-toglorifyHisHeavenlyFatherinthesalvationof precious, immortal souls.Henever failed tomakethis thegranddesignofHishighmission.For this very objectHe became a man of sorrows. For this He was in all pointstemptedlikeasweare,yetwithoutsin.ForthisHegroanedinthespirit;forthisHeagonizedinthegarden,andexpireduponthecross.ForthisHeroseagain,andascendedonHigh.AndinthecourtsofheavenHestill pleadsour causebeforeGod.Oh,whatbelieverisnotmadetorejoice,whenheconsiderstheendfor which the Savior became incarnate- for the purpose ofredeeminghissoul toGod,andto the ineffable joysofheaven,Jesus visited earth, and trod the thorny path of life, until HeenduredtheexcruciatingdeathoftheCross!

'ForthisHecameanddweltonearth,ForthisHislifewasgiven;ForthisHefoughtandvanquisheddeath,ForthisHepleadsinheaven!Join,allyousaintsbeneaththesky,YourgratefulpraisetogiveSingloudhosannastotheLord,Whodiedthatyoumightlive.'

IN THE INCARNATION OF OUR BLESSED SAVIOR THEMOSTAMAZINGCONDESCENSIONISMANIFESTED.Where,in the wide universe of God, can be found an instance ofcondescension so marvelous as that which Christ displayed,when He left the throne of heavenly glory, and the songs ofseraphim and cherubim, to be cradled in the manger ofBethlehem,tobecomeamanofsorrows,todwellonearthinthedisguiseofaservant?Howwonderful,thattheSonofGod,wholayfromalleternitypastinthebosomoftheFather,should,foraseason,layasidetherobesofHisglory,forsakethosehighandheavenlymansions,withall their ineffable joys, and takeuponHimtheformofourdegradedspecies,thatwemightbeinvestedwith the robes of righteousness, and shine as the sun in thekingdomofheaven!HerewebeholdtheeternalSonofGod,bywhomwereallthingscreatedthatareinheaven,andthatareinearth,unitingHimselftofrail,mortalman;tomanwhoisbutaworm;toman,whois likeawindthatpassesaway,andcomesnotagain.Oh,whatcondescension!Howtrulyamazing!

The infinite condescension of our blessed Redeemer inassuming humanity, is a subject in which our minds shouldoftenbeengagedinthemostseriouscontemplation.Andwhiledwellingon thismarvelous andglorious theme,mayour soulsbe filled with adoration, gratitude, and praise. When, in theexercise of a strong and lively faith, we look at the voluntarydescent of Jesus into this lower world, and consider theunparalleledhumiliationofHis lifeanddeath,wewill feel like

giving expression to the emotions of our hearts in languagesimilartothis: 'ThattheAlmightyshouldbecometheSaviorofHis rebellious creatures, by takinguponHim theirnature thatHe,whorulesoverallworlds,shouldstoop,nottobeamightymonarch, but a humble carpenter; that He, who created andprovided the foxes and the birdswith holes and nests, shouldvoluntarily leaveHimself destitute of a placewhere to layHishead; thatHe,who is thegreatProprietorofall things, shouldcondescendtobesupportedbypiousfemales,whoministeredtohim of their substance; that the Fountain of felicity shouldbecome aman of sorrows and acquainted with grief; that theLordofgloryshouldbedespisedandrejectedofmen; that theJudgeofthelivinganddeadshouldstand,likeacriminal,atanearthly tribunal, charged with crimes which He nevercommitted,andcondemnedfortransgressionsofwhichHewasdeclared innocent; that the Majesty of heaven should be spitupon,scourged,andcrucified;thattheLordoflifeshouldpouroutHissouluntodeath;this,thisisthewonderofwonders-theunsearchablerichesofChrist"Nottobethoughtof,butwithtidesofjoy;Nottobementioned,butwithshoutsofpraise."

To view this subject in a proper light, we must take intoconsideration the essential and original dignity, majesty, andgloryofChrist.He,whocondescendstobeborninthelikenessofmen, is the only begotten Son ofGod, equal and co-eternalwiththeFather.HeisthesecondPersoninthegloriousTrinity;thesamedivineBeing,someofwhoseexcellencies,asrevealedintheScriptures,havealreadybeenexhibitedinthiswork.Thisglorious Person, in His infinite compassion for perishingsinners,makesHimself of no reputation, and takes uponHimthe formofa servant, and ismade in the likenessofmen.He,whose hand has laid the foundation of the earth, and whoserighthandhasspannedtheheavens,evencondescendstohavethosehandsnailedtothecross.Beingfoundinfashionasaman,He humbles Himself, and becomes obedient unto death, eventhe death of the cross. Be astonished, O you heavens, at this!

What unexpected, unthought of condescension in the Lord ofglory!What astonishmentmust this transition have excited intheminds of the heavenly host! 'Easilymaywe imagine,' saysDwight, 'that all heaven was lost in wonder, and buried insilence,tobeholdthistransitionfrominfiniteglorytosupremehumiliation, from the throne of the universe to a tenement ofclay.'

Itwouldbeconsideredgreatcondescensionforanearthlyprinceto leavehis throne andvisit thewretched cottagesofhismostdegradedandimpoverishedsubjects,forthebenevolentpurposeofadministeringrelief,andelevating to rank,and fortune,andoffice;but infinitelygreater is the condescensionofChrist, theKing of kings, and Lord of lords, who, though dwelling inineffable light, and possessing every divine attribute, yetdisrobesHimselfofthegloriesofHisvastdomains,andcomestovisitguiltyanddegradedmanonearth,withtidingsofpeaceandreconciliation,eternal lifeand felicity.ThePrinceofPeacestoopsfromHishighandroyalpalaceintheheavenstoagonize-tobleed-todieforsinnersontheearth.Oh!surprisingthought.Oh!miracleofmercy.WhatlanguagecanexpressthevoluntarydescentoftheSonoftheEternalGodfromtherichesofheaventothedeepestandthemostintenseandoverwhelmingsufferingonearth,thatfallenmanmightberaisedtotheunmingledandeverlastingjoysofasereneandheavenlyParadise?Whatsongsof gratitude canwe raise for a condescension so unparalleled-forgoodnesssoimmense?

'AnddidtheHolyandtheJust,TheSovereignoftheskies,Stoopdowntowretchednessanddust,Thatguiltywormsmightrise?Yes,theRedeemerleftHisthrone,Hisradiantthroneonhigh;Surprisingmercy!loveunknown!Tosuffer,bleed,anddie.Hetookthedyingtraitor'splace,

Andsufferinginhisstead;Forman,(Omiracleofgrace!)FormantheSaviorbled!Jesus,mysouladoringbendsTolovesofull,sofree;AndmayIhopethatloveextendsItssacredpowertome.WhatgladreturnscanIimpartForfavorssodivine?Oh,takemyall;thisworthlessheart,AndmakeitwhollyThine.'

InthismostwonderfulcondescensionofChristJesus,wehaveaperfect pattern for our imitation; and the apostle calls up thisexample,whenhe enjoins onChristians the duty of exercisingthegraceofhumility.'Letthismindbeinyou,whichwasalsoinChristJesus.' 'NowIPaulmyselfbeseechyou,bythemeeknessandgentlenessofChrist.'Aproudandimperiousspirit ismostdispleasing in the sight ofHeaven. 'God resists the proud, butgives grace unto the humble.' Our blessed Savior ismeek andlowlyinheart;andifwewouldbeconformedtoHisimage,wemuststrivetoimitatethischoiceexampleofhumilitywhichHehasfurnishedus.ThisisoneofthefruitsoftheSpirit:andifanymanhavenot theSpirit ofChrist, he is none ofHis. ThehighandloftyOne,whodwellsinthehighandholyplace,inhabitingeternity and the praises of Israel, dwellswith himwho is of acontrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble,andtorevivetheheartof thecontriteones.Oh, letusstudytoincrease more and more in the grace of humility. And if wewould manifest this lovely disposition in our dally walk andconversation, we must look to a condescending Savior, andalwaysbearaboutinourbodythedyingoftheLordJesus.Ifwearefouledcultivatingthisgraciousaffectioninthetruespiritofpiety, we shall receive the approbation of heaven, and a richrewardinthelifetocome.

It iswhileexercisingthegraceofhumility, thatweare favored

with our brightest views of divine things. 'Cherish,' says JohnHowe, 'the great grace of humility; and be ever lowly in yourowneyes.ThattempercarriesitinevenanaturaldispositiontodelightinGod.HowsweetcomplacencywillsuchasoultakeinHim!His light andglory shinewith great luster in the eyes ofsuch a one while there is not a nearer, imagined luster to viewith. Stars are seen at noon, by thosewhodescend low into adeep pit. . . . . Down then into the dust- there you are in thefittest place and posture for delightful converse with God.'Leighton has beautifully remarked: 'Surely, the soul that hasmostofChrist,hasmosthumility.ItisthelessonHepeculiarlyrecommendstousfromHisownexample,whichistheshortestandmosteffectualwayofteaching,'LearnofMe,forIammeekandlowlyofheart.JesusChristisindeedtheLilyofthevalleys;Hegrowsnowherebutinthehumbleheart.SaidRowlandHill,withmuchearnestnessandsimplicity,'Ilovethepoor,thelowlybeliever.Seeyoneveningstar,howbright it shines;howpure,howgentle are its rays- but look, it is lower than theheavens,than those that sparklewith a restless twinkling, in thehigherregionsofthesky.Godkeepsyoulowthatyoumayshinebright.Wheredotheriversrunthatfertilizeoursoil-isitonthebarrentopofyonderhill?No,inthevalleysbeneath.Ifyouwouldhavetheriver,whosestreamsmakeglad thecityofourGod, to runthrough your hearts and enrich them to His glory, You mustabideinthevalleyofhumility.'

'Thesaintthatwearsheaven'sbrightestcrown,Indeepestadorationbends;Theweightofglorybowshimdown,Thenmost,whenmostthesoulascends:NearestthethroneitselfmustbeThefootstoolofhumility.'

THE BENEVOLENCE OF GOD IS MOST ILLUSTRIOUSLYDISPLAYEDINTHEGIFTOFHISSON.TheloveofGodistheoriginalfountainofallourmercies.TheScripturesmakeknownto us this great truth, that the glorious plan of redemption

originated in the infinite love of God the Father. 'For God soloved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, thatwhoeverbelievesinHim,shouldnotperish,buthaveeverlastinglife.'Whocanunfoldthefullimportofthisgloriousdeclaration?Canthetongueofmenorangels?No.Itpassesknowledge.Theagesofvasteternitywillbespentincontemplatingthiswonderofwonders,thismysteryofmysteries-theloveofGodingivingHisSontosorrows,andtosufferings,andtodeathforus,thatwemightnotperish,buthaveeternallife.InthegiftofHisSontoalostworld,GodtheFatherhasmanifestedthegreatestlovethathaseverbeenmadeknowntous.Itisalovebeyondhumanorangeliccomprehension.Itscontemplationfillsthepiousmindwithwonder, admiration, and gratitude. Itwill forever employthe harps of angels and the redeemed in glory. It is a themewhichwill never be exhausted. Itwill be always new. It is thesourceof thatwondrousnew song inheaven; the sourceof allthose rapturous joys in the presence of God on high. There isnothing like this love. All comparison bears but a faintresemblance to it. It is a great deep, a boundless ocean,incomprehensibleastheotherattributesofthedivinenature.OLord, Your mercy is great above the heavens; and Your truthreachesuntotheclouds.

'The power of God does brightly shine in the creation, thewisdomofGodmayclearlybediscerned in the governmentofthings; but the incarnation of God is that work, is thatdispensation of grace, wherein the divine goodness doesmostconspicuously display itself. How possibly could God havedemonstratedagreaterexcessofkindness towardsus, thanbythus,foroursakeandgood,sendingHisdearestSonoutofHisbosom into this sordid and servile state, subjectingHim to allthe, infirmities of our frail nature, exposingHim to the worstinconveniences of our low condition? What expressions cansignify,what comparisons can set out the stupendous vastnessofthiskindness.'(Barrow)

Ingivingthisloveitsjustpreeminence,thesacredwriterspoint

to it as an example of unprecedented benevolence in God. 'InthiswasmanifestedtheloveofGodtowardus,becausethatGodsentHis only begotten Son into the world, that wemight livethroughHim.Hereinislove,notthatwelovedGod,butthatHelovedus, and sentHisSon tobe thepropitiation forour sins.'Thislovewillappearmoreandmoremarvelous,ifweconsiderthegreatnessoftheGiver,andtheinsignificanceandvilenessofthe objects uponwhom it is bestowed. It ismanifested by thegreatandgloriousJehovahtoaworldofmiserablesinners.'GodcommendsHislovetowardus,inthatwhilewewereyetsinners,Christdiedforus.'Oh!itisthiswhichshouldexciteourhighestadmiration, and our deepest gratitude. God first loved us: Heloveduswhenwewererebelsandenemies-wanderersfromthepath of duty and happiness- sinners of the most depravedcharacter.Whenwewere in this deplorable conditionwith noeyetopity,andwithnoarmtosaveus,thevastbenevolenceofGod prompted Him to give His Son to die for us- to giveHIMSELF.'HerebyperceivewetheloveofGod,becauseHelaiddownHislifeforus.''Andwehaveknownandbelievedthelovethat God has to us. God is LOVE.' Here, let us pause, andwonder,andadmire,andadore.Oh,whatmannerofloveisthis!How illustriously it shines! This moral attribute of God is sogloriouslymanifestedinthegiftofJesustoalostworld,thatallholy intelligencesare filledwithwonderandamazementwhenthey think of such goodness. Angels are now dwelling on thistheme with intense thought. The redeemed, who are nowsinging the song ofMoses and the Lamb, are celebrating thislove with unceasing delight. Saints, who are now travelingthrough this valley of tears, are looking heavenward, andlonging to join the celestial choir, that they may learn tocelebrate this unexampled benevolence in more worthy andexaltedstrains.Oh,whoshallseparateusfromthisloveofGod?Let it ever glow in our hearts; let it ever be extolledwith ourtongues.May it excites inusmost sublimegratitude,whilewejourney as pilgrims through life; and be celebrated by usthroughtheeternaldayofglory.

Thisloveisfreelygiventosinners.GodgaveHisSon-untousaSonisgiven. InHisunfathomable love,Goddidnot spareHisown Son, but delivered Him up for us all. While we come toChrist, and receive Him with thankfulness as the free gift ofGod,andrestinHimforeternalsalvation,letusbeconsoledbythethoughtthatthedivinebenevolencewillalsobemanifestedtowardsusinalltheeventsoflife,makingevenourafflictionstoworkforusafarmoreexceedingandeternalweightofglory.IfourHeavenlyFatherhasconferreduponussuchanunspeakablegiftas thatofHisbelovedSon,howshallHenotwithHim,astheapostlesays,alsofreelygiveusallthings?SinceHehasgivenus the living bread from heaven, will He not provide for ourtemporalneedsoutofHisunlimitedfullness?WillHenot leadusinthepathofrighteousness;protectusfromeveryevil,giveusthevictoryoverourspiritual foes,andfinallycrownuswiththe glories of eternity? Yes, He will. 'My God shall supply allyourneedsaccordingtoHisrichesinglorybyChristJesus.''Allthings are yours, whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or theworld,orlife,ordeath,orthingspresent,orthingstocome;allareyours.' 'Forall thingsareforyoursakes, that theabundantgracemight through the thanksgiving ofmany redound to thegloryofGod.'

THELOVEOFTHESAVIORISWONDERFULLYDISPLAYEDINHISINCARNATION.WhilethebenevolenceofGodwasthegrandmotivethatpromptedHimtogiveHisonlybegottenSonastheSaviorofaperishingworld,lovewasalsothecausewhichconstrainedtheblessedJesustoleaveHisheavenlythroneandvisit earth, that He might accomplish the eternal purposes ofdivinemercyinthesalvationofsinners.And,oh,howboundlessis that love which brings the Son of God, the Creator of theworld,fromsuchheightsofglorytosuchdepthsofhumiliationandsuffering!Hereisamanifestationofgracewhichexceedsalldescription, passes all knowledge, and is without a parallel intheannalsoftimeoreternity.Welldoestheapostlespeakofthiswondrous theme, as, the love of Christ, which passesknowledge.'When, for the purpose of redeeming lost sinners,

theSonofGoddivestsHimselfofHisheavenlyglory,takesuponHimtheformofaservant,andismadeinthelikenessofmen,He manifests a love, the vehemence and vastness of whicheternityitselfcanneverfullydeclare.HowwasthemindofPaulelevatedbynobleconceptions,whenhethoughtoftheamazinggrace of Jesus in becoming our Redeemer! With what deepemotions-withwhatsacredeloquencedoesheexpatiateonthisdelightfultheme!'YouknowthegraceofourLordJesusChrist,that thoughHe was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor,that you throughHis povertymight be rich.' This caused himoften to pour out his soul in earnest prayer to God, that theGentilesmightknowthegreatloveofChristtowardsthem.'Forthis cause I bowmy knees unto the Father of our Lord JesusChrist,ofwhomthewholefamilyinheavenandearthisnamed,thatHewouldgrantyou,accordingtotherichesofHisglory,tobestrengthenedwithmightbyHisSpiritintheinnerman;thatChristmaydwellinYourheartsbyfaith;thatyou,beingrootedandgroundedinlove,manybeabletocomprehendwithallthesaintswhat is thebreadth, and length, and depth, and height;andtoknowtheloveofChrist,whichpassesknowledge.'

Oh, who can measure the height and depth, the length andbreadth of this admirable, rich grace! Most boundlesscompassion,reachingfromyonbrightthroneofJehovahintheheavens to thisdarkvalleyofmortality, raisingmyriads of thelost raceofAdam, from thedeathof sin to the life ofholinessandhappiness;tothesupreme,immortalfelicitiesofaheavenlyParadise!Howvainarewords toexpress thestupendousgraceofourLordandSaviorJesusChristinclothingHimselfwithournature,thatHemightbecomeasufferingman,andbyHisdeathupontheCross,reconcileustoGod!Oh, thegraceand loveof theblessedJesus!He, themosthighGod,blessedforevermore, consented tobecomeman.Hewhowaslife,andgiveslifetoall,becameamortalman.Hewasborntodie.Becausewewere"partakersof fleshandblood;HealsoHimself likewise took part of the same." Oh, love beyondexampleordegree!

'Oh,maythislove,instrainssublime,Besungtothelasthouroftime;Andleteternityconfess,Throughallitsrounds,thematchlessgrace.'

IN THE INCARNATION OF THE SAVIOR, HUMANITY ISMOSTHIGHLYHONOREDANDEXALTED.WhentheSonofGod came from heaven and took upon Him the seed ofAbraham, and was manifest in the flesh, human nature wasraisedfromtinelowestdegreeofwretchednesstoamostexaltedstate of happiness- even above the seats of the highest seraphthatadores,andburnswithlove,inthepresenceofGod.InthePerson of Emmanuel our nature is crowned with the highesthonors,andthehighestgloriesofParadise.Inheaven,theManChristJesusnowreignsoverall things;onHisheadaremanycrowns,andHeis investedwithsupremepowerandauthority,for the good of the Church. As our Forerunner,He has for usenteredwithintheveil,andwillinduetimebringustothatstateof honor, exaltation, and glory to which He is now advanced.Whatanhonor is it toreignwithChrist inheaven;tobemadeheirsofGod,andkingsandpriestsuntoHim; tohaveourvilebodies fashioned like unto the glorious bode of the blessedRedeemer;toshineasthesuninthekingdomofourHeavenlyFather; to be made equal to the angels, to be clothed withimmortal youth, vigor, and beauty; and to inhale forever thepeaceful atmosphere of the upper Paradise!We shall never beable,inthislife,tocomprehendthegreatnessofthehonorandblessednesstowhichhumannatureisadvanced,inconsequenceof the incarnation and the atonement of the Son of God. Wemustwaituntilmortalityisswallowedupoflife;untilwereachthatbetterworld,wherethestormsanddarknessofearthnevercome;until in the splendor of immortal day,we shall seehowgreatareourhonors,howpureourjoys,howbrightourglories,how rich our inheritance with the saints in light. In themeantime let us rejoice, that Jesus is now invested withhumanityonthethroneofheaven;andthatitisHiswillthatwemayalsobepartakerswithHiminHisheavenlyglories.

What consolation is here for the weary Christian pilgrimjourneying through a land of trial and conflict- of temptationanddanger-ofdarknessandtheshadowofdeath!ChildofGod,liftupyourheadwithjoy.Lookheavenward.Whositsonyonderglorious throne?Whowields the scepter of theuniverse?Whocontrols the raging elements? Who says to the storms andtempests,Peace,bestill?Whoraisesthepoorfromthedust,andexaltshimtoathroneamongprinces?Whobeautifiesthemeekwith salvation? It is Emmanuel- Jehovah Jesus in our nature-our Elder Brother- our Advocate with the Father. Mostanimating thought!Oh, letus lookwith theeyeof faith toourexalted Redeemer; and we shall abide in more than earthlyhonorwhilepilgrimshere,untilwearecarriedbyangelstotheblissfulseatsofsanctifiedsoulsabove,toliveandflourishintheParadiseofGodforeverandever.ThishonorhaveallHissaints.Letthethought,thatChristwillsoonexaltustothosehighandheavenlyhonors,brightenthesorrowsofourearthlypilgrimage,and inspire us with hope in the darkest hour, until that dayopens which shall never be darkened by a setting sun. Let uskeep our eyes upon the adorable Jesus in His glorifiedhumanity, at the right hand of theMajesty on high; and lookforwardwithhappyanticipationofthejoysofheaven-ofbeingadmitted into His presence to receive all those divine honorsand felicities which were purchased for us, when Hecondescended to become bone of our bone, and flesh of ourflesh.

Let us now bring all these things home to our hearts. Let uspause,andask,Howareweaffectedbythisgreatandmarvelousevent,theincarnationoftheeternalSonofGod?Arewereadytojoin theangels in singing,Glory toGod in thehighest, andonearthpeace,goodwilltowardmen?Or,isourheartunmovedatthishighestmanifestationofdivinebenevolencetoalostworld-the gift of a Savior? Has the cheering light of the star ofBethlehemyetshoneonourpathwaytoguideustoHim,WhoistheBrightandMorningStar,andwhobringsaneternaldayof

glory to the soul?Areweascribingglory toGod in thehigheststrains for the incarnation of His begotten Son, who is thebrightnessofHisglory,andtheexpressimageofHisPerson?Dowe experience the peace, which this Day-spring from on highbrings to the soul? Are we admiring that vast, incomparablebenevolenceofGod,whichledHimtosendHisownSontotheworld,inthelikenessofmen,tomakeatonementforsin?Ifwewouldseethewisdom,justice,power,andgoodnessofGodmostillustriouslydisplayed,wemustgotoBethlehem.Therewewillsee the manifold wisdom of God. There we will see Deitymanifested in the flesh, and learn the new song of redeeminglove.Therewewill seemanredeemed, thepowersofdarknessoverthrown, the stingofdeathextracted, and thegloomof thegravedispelled.ThenwillthegloryoftheLordshinearoundus,andwewilllistenwithdelighttothesongofangels,andourownvoiceswillbeattunedtotheharpsoftheheavenlyworld.Thenwillwe return, like the shepherds, glorifying andpraisingGodfor all the things that we have heard and seen. Then will theangels'songbeours-oursthroughtime-oursthrougheternity.Yes, in yon temple of light, the blissful abode of all holyintelligences, we will sing with rapture of the incarnation ofJesus,andthegloryitbringstoGodandourownsouls.Oh,withwhattransportsofjoywillwetherebeholdHim,whowasborninBethlehem,stillclothedwithournaturebeforethethroneofGod,andreigninginallthegrandeurofthedivineattributes!Itis impossible for us now to conceive with what feelings ofwonder, and delight, and admiration, and gratitude, we willremember themysterious scene of Bethlehem, in those serenemansionsoftheblessed,wheretheincarnateSonofGodisthedelightofeveryheart,andthethemeofeverysong.

Letusendeavornowtohaveourheartsdulyimpressedwiththisgreatmysteryofgodliness,inwhichthehumanraceissodeeplyinterested. Let us feel that no event of all earthly nature is soimportanttousasthatoftheincarnationoftheSonofGod.Letusrememberthatthiswillbethesourceofeternaljoytous,orgreatlyaggravateourpunishmentintheabodesofmisery!What

a solemn consideration! Let us lay it to heart now; and come,withoutdelay,toBethlehem,thehouseofbread,thatwemayeatofthatspiritualfoodwhichcamedownfromheaven,anddrinkofthatsmittenRockfromwhosesideissuethosestreamswhichreanimatethespiritofhim,who isreadytoperish fromthirst.Like David, let us long to drink of the water of the well ofBethlehem.Oh,thatwecouldsaywithhim: 'AstheDeerpantsafter thewaterbrooks, sopantsmysoulafterYou,OGod.Mysoul thirsts for God, for the living God.' Let us thirst for thatspiritual, livingwaterwhichJesusalonecangive.Let,uscometoHim, and studyandadmire themysteryofGodmanifest inthe flesh, and the amazing height, depth, and length, andbreadthofdivinelove.HeistheonlywaytotheFather;walkinHimandHewillleadyoutoareconciledGod.HeistheTruth:believeinHim,andyouwillknowallthings.HeistheLife:looktoHim,andyouwill live forever.HewillbeYourguidingStarthroughthedarkandstormyslightofearth,untilthebrightandhappymorningofeternaldaydawns-untilyoustanduponthepeacefulshore-untilyougazeupontheblissfulskies.

OGod,YouwhobyastarguidedthewisementoYoureternalSon, when He was manifested in the flesh, grant, in theimmensity of Your love, that we, by the reception of spirituallight from You, may also be led to the only Savior for theblessingsofgraceandthejoysofheaven.OmercifulFather,giveus an interest in Your Son Jesus Christ- inHis atoning bloodand righteousness; in His intercessory work in heaven; in thepeacefulness of His kingdom; in the abundance of His riches;and in the beauty and excellency of that celestial inheritancewhichHehaspurchasedwithHispreciousblood.

Blessed Jesus, what shall we render unto You for Yourunspeakable benefits to us! From Your glorious throne inheavenYoucondescendedtoregardman,'thatisaworm'-man,whoisinYoursightlessthannothing,andvanity.Youdidcomefromtherealmsofsupremefelicity toaworldofsorrow, tobeinvested with humanity- to feel for our infirmities- to make

peacebetweenGodandman; to endure thedeathof the crossfor us. How highly have You distinguished us, in Yourimmeasurablekindness!WeblessYou thatYouhaveappearedastheDay-springfromonhigh,transformingourdarknessintolight, into glory.Maywewalk inYour light untilwe reach thebrightandhappyhomeoftheblessedonesinheaven.Andwhenwe look at the glorious results of Your incarnation, sufferings,death,andintercession,maywebeconstrainedfromourinmostsoul, to join in the angelichymn, "Glory toGod in thehighestheaven,andpeaceonearthtoallwhomGodfavors."Luke2:14

THESAVIOR'SMINISTRY

'Hiswasalifeofmiracles,andmight,andcharity,andlove.'

'JesusofNazareth-whowentaboutdoinggood.'-Acts10:38.

'ItwasHis glory, as itwasHis delight, to be the friend of thefriendless,and thehelperof thehelpless; topardon the sinful,and cleanse the polluted; to open the door of heaven to faith,and hold out the golden scepter to penitence; to suffuse withhope theeyeofdespair, andopenapassage from thegrave totheworldofglory.'-Dwight.

Staroftheland,inglorybright,Throughtime'sdarkvalley,Ohbemylight;Starofthesea,mayyoursweetbeam,Overlife'stroubledoceangleam.Starofthepilgrim,cheermyway,Apilgrimtotherealmsofday;Staroftheblessed,aroundmyhead,Youreverlastingradianceshed.Starofthemorn,andofthegloom,Oflife,andofthecheerlesstomb,Butmorethanstar,myKing,myLord,MyGod,byearth,andheavenadored,Myglory,wealth,andrapturebe,Now,andthroughalleternity.

THESAVIORINHISPERSONALMINISTRYONEARTH.

HailtoHisrisingfromafar;Heisthebrightandmorningstar;Hishealingbeams,Onations,bless;HeistheSunofRighteousness;TosaveHispeoplefromtheirsins,

JesusHissufferinglifebegins;'Erelong,asChristoursacrifice,TheHolyandtheJustOnedies.-J.Montgomery

It is amostwonderful, important, and glorious truth, that theeternal Son of God, robed in humanity, has appeared in thisworldof spiritualdarkness, as theblessedDay-spring fromonhigh, to impart light to us, to guide our feet into the way ofpeace,andtoconductustotherealmsofablissfulimmortalitybeyond the skies. In His immeasurable benevolence for a lostworld, the only-begotten Son of God comes forth from thebosomoftheFather,placesHimselfbetweenoffendedDeityandsinfulman,receivesthestrokeofdivinewrath,andbreathesoutHislifearansomformany.FormorethanthirtyyearsHedwellsinthiswearyworld,leadingalifeofsufferingfromthemangerofBethlehemto thecrossofCalvary.ThisdivinepilgrimageofourblessedSaviordeservesourmostseriousconsideration;forwith it our eternal welfare is inseparably connected. It is asubjectof vast concern to the human race. It is the life of ourprecioussouls.IfwepossessasavingknowledgeofHimwhomGodtheFatherhassentforthtoatoneforoursin,heavenwithallitsuntoldglorieswillbeours.ButifwerejecttheonlySavior,and the divine doctrinesHe has taught, thewrath ofGodwillabideonusthroughalltheinfiniteagesofourexistence.Letus,then, attend to those great truths which the Scriptures, indisclosing the scenes of our Savior's life, present for ourinstruction, comfort, and salvation. We have already viewedChristastheMorningStar,theSunofRighteousness,andLightoftheworld:wehavecontemplatedthenatureandexcellenceofHis divine Person; and have followed Him in His wonderfultransition from the throne of heaven to the manger ofBethlehem, when He embodied the attributes of Deity in anincarnate form,descending from supremeglory to thedeepesthumiliation, taking upon Him the form of a servant, that Hemightbecomeobedientuntodeath,eventhedeathofthecross.Andnowwewouldglanceatsomeoftheremarkablescenes in

Hisholylifeonearth,andmuseuponthelessonstheyimparttous.

Howdelightful to trace the footsteps of our blessedRedeemerthrough this valley of tears, when he went about doing good,performing the noblest deeds, healing all manner of disease,working themost stupendousmiracles,manifesting the purestand most unselfish benevolence, ministering the balm ofconsolation to the afflicted, and holding forth the gloriouspromiseoflifeandimmortalitytoaperishingworld!'MysoulrejoicestopursueThestepsofHimIlove,TillglorybreaksuponmyviewInbrighterworldsabove.'

OUR SAVIOR'S LIFE ON EARTH WAS ONE OF POVERTY,REPOACH,ANDPERSECUTION.'For youknow the graceof ourLordJesusChrist, that thoughHe was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that youthroughHispovertymightberich.'TheSonofGodwasnotonlyinvestedintherobesofhumanity,butalsocondescendedtoliveinastateofvoluntarypovertyandpersecutiononearth.Whiletheirrationalcreationwasamplyprovidedfor,theblessedJesushad not a couch ofHis own onwhichHe could repose, whenfaint with fatigue. In His extreme poverty He could say, 'Thefoxeshaveholes,andthebirdsoftheairhavenests;buttheSonofmanhasnotwheretolayHishead.'ThePossessorofheavenandearth,theLordofall,inHisvoluntaryhumiliation,hasnotwheretolayHishead!Oh,whatanunparallelexhibitionofthevastbenevolenceofGodtoaperishingworld!Oh,thedepthoftherichesofHislovewhereinGodhasaboundedtowardsus,insendingHisonly-begottenSontoendurepoverty,andreproach,andpersecution forus!Andwhatsurpassinggrace, thatChristJesus,whowasoriginally so rich in the glories of the celestialstate, should, for our sakes, become so poor and despised onearth! What overflowing joy should spring up in our hearts,whenwethinkthatourblessedSaviorvoluntarilystoopedtothe

hardships of poverty, to persecution and revilings, for thepurposeofraisingusuptoaparticipationoftheunendingjoysofheaven:forthepurposeofbringingusintoastateofthemostintimate and endearing communion with God, and all holybeings; for thepurposeof refreshingour famishingand thirstysouls with the hidden manna, and the water of life; for thepurposeofeternallyenrichinguswithallthoseimmensestoresof heavenly blessings,which the eye has not seen, nor the earheard,northeheartconceived!EverlastingthanksandpraiseberendereduntoYourname,OhdivineRedeemer,forstoopingsolowinpoverty,thatwemightberaisedtothepossessionoftheunsearchablerichesofheaven.Oh,maytheinspiringthoughtofYoursurpassinggracetowardsthesonsofmenliftusabovethecares, thesorrows,andthetrialsof life'swearyway,andcausethevoiceofjoyandgladnesstobeheardinourhabitations,untilcrownedwithconsummateblissinheaven,wetakeupthenewand everlasting song of the redeemed, and celebrate the greatandgloriousmysteriesofthegospel.

As soon as the Savior appeared in the world, He became theobjectofpersecutionanddisdain.WhileanInfant,HislifewassoughtbythecruelandjealousHerod;andHebecameanexileinEgypt.HecameuntoHisown,andHisownreceivedHimnot.Hewasintheworld,andtheworldwasmadebyHim,andtheworldknewHimnot.Hewasdespisedandrejected-amanofsorrows,acquaintedwithbitterestgrief.Weturnedourbacksonhimandlookedtheotherwaywhenhewentby.Hewasdespised,andwedidnotcare.Yetit was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows thatweighed him down. And we thought his troubles were apunishment from God for his own sins! But he was woundedand crushed for our sins. He was beaten that we might havepeace.Hewaswhipped,andwewerehealed!Ah!didtheSonofGod receive such inhuman treatment from sinners whom Hecametoredeem?Howplainlydoes thisevince thedeep-seatedenmityofthenaturalheartagainstGod,andHisholylaw!

One continual scene of reproach andpersecution followed ourSavior inthedischargeofHismediatorialofficeonearth,untilthe crowning act of iniquitywas accomplished,whenHis holyhandswerenailedtotheaccursedtree,andwhen,quivering inagony on the bloody cross, He calmly bore in His bosom therevilingsofallHispersecutors.TraceHisfootstepsthroughtheland of Judea, and see the bitter scorn, persecution, andcalumny He endured while engaged in the blessed work ofpreachingthegospelofthekingdom,andhealingallmannerofsickness, and all manner of disease among the people. Howoften did the Jews, from envy, and prejudice, and hatred,conspireagainstHimtoputHimtodeath!Ononeoccasionwefind them takingup stones to cast atHim;at another timeweseethem,filledwithwrath,risingupandthrustingHimoutofthecityofNazareth,andleadinghimuntothebrowofthehill,thattheymightcastHimdownheadlong.Whenhehadhealedtheimpotentman,whohadbeendiseasedforthirty-eightyears,we read of them persecuting Jesus, and seeking to slay HimbecauseHehaddonethesethingsontheSabbathday.AndafterHehadraisedLazarus,weseethechiefpriestsandthePhariseescalling a council, and adoptingmeasures to putHim to death.These proud and self-righteous rulers long to imbrue theirhands inHis innocent blood. The high priest and the scribes,Herod and Pilate, unite against the Lord of glory, while thecommon people, excited by their wicked rulers, cry, 'CrucifyHim,crucifyHim!''Notthisman,butBarabbas.''Andthevoicesof them,andof the chiefpriestsprevailed.'How appropriatelymaythis languagebeappliedtothepersecutedSavior, 'Princeshave persecuted me without a cause.' 'For the enemy haspersecutedmysoul;hehassmittenmylifedowntotheground;hehasmademe todwell indarkness, as those thathavebeenlong dead.' 'Reproach has broken my heart; and I am full ofheaviness: and I looked for some to take pity, but there wasnone;andforcomforters,butI foundnone.' 'Remember,Lord,thereproachofYourservants;howIdobear inmybosomthereproach of all the mighty people; with which Your enemieshavereproachedthefootstepsofYouranointed.'

IthasbeenbeautifullyremarkedbyJeremyTaylor,that'allthatChrist came for was, or was mingled with, sufferings; for allthoselittlejoyswhichGodsent,eithertorecreateHisperson,ortoillustrateHisoffice,wereabated,orattendedwithafflictions;God being more careful to establish in Him the covenant ofsufferingsthantorelieveHissorrows.Presentlyaftertheangelshadfinishedtheirhallelujahs,HewasforcedtofleetosaveHislife,andtheairbecamefullofshrieksofthedesolatemothersofBethlehemfortheirdyingbabes.GodhadnosoonermadeHimillustriouswithavoicefromheaven,andthedescentoftheHolySpirituponHiminthewatersofbaptism,butHewasdeliveredovertobetemptedandassaultedbythedevilinthewilderness.His transfigurationwasabright rayof glory;but thenalsoHeentered intoacloud,andwastoldasadstory,whatHewas tosuffer at Jerusalem. When He rode triumphantly intoJerusalem, and was adorned with the acclamations of a KingandaGod,Hewet thepalmswithHis tears, sweeter than thedrops ofmanna, or the little pearls of heaven that descendedupon Mount Hermon, weeping, in the midst of this triumph,over obstinate, perishing, andmalicious Jerusalem.' Now, canthe faithfulservantsofChristexpect tobealwaysexempt frompersecutionandreproach inaworldwheretheirdivineMasterwassocruellyandmaliciouslytreated?No!Theywillbeexposedto these trials until they reach the shores of that better worldwherethewickedceasefromtroubling,andwherethewearyareatrest.Weareyet inanenemy'scountry; theworld, thedevil,andthefleshareallagainstus.'AllthatwilllivegodlyinChristJesus shall suffer persecution.' Well does the Savior, in HisvaledictorydiscoursetoHisdisciplesontheeveningbeforeHissuffering, remind themof the opposition andpersecution theywouldmeetwith in theworld. 'RememberthewordthatIsaiduntoyou,Theservant isnotgreater thanhis lord. If theyhavepersecutedme,theywillalsopersecuteyou.'Oh,letuspreparefortheconflictsofearth,rememberingthatwhilethedayoflifecontinues we must encounter it's storms and tempests.'Ordinarily,' saysRichardBaxter, 'Godwouldhave vicissitudes

ofsummerandwinter,dayandnight,thatthechurchmaygrowexternally in the summer of prosperity, and internally andradically in the winter of adversity; yet usually their night islonger than their day, and that day itself has its storms andtempests.'

Ifweareconformed to theblessed imageofChrist,and followHisexample,wemustsubmittobereproachedbytheworld-tohaveournamescastoutasevil.Yes, ifwe cleave toJesusandthedoctrinesofthecross,andlabortobringotherstoHim,wemust, like the apostle, suffer reproach. 'For therefore we bothlabor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God,whoistheSaviorofallmen,especiallyofthosethatbelieve.'Theworld will endeavor to impeach ourmotives, misconstrue ouractions,andtarnishour reputation.Butwhile thus reproachedfor the sake of Christ, let us considerHim, and go forth untoHim outside the camp, bearing His reproach- like Moses,esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than thetreasuresinEgypt.Likethisgreatprophetandlawgiver,letourchoice be wise for eternity; let us have respect unto therecompense of the reward, continually viewing the heavenlyprize,theimmortaldiadem,whichisreadytoencirclethebrowof the Christian, when he comes from the field of life's battle,more than a conqueror through the glorious Captain of hissalvation. 'Ifyouare reproached for thenameofChrist,happyare you; for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.''Hearkenuntome, you that know righteousness, thepeople inwhoseheartismylaw;donotfearthereproachofmen,neitherbeafraidoftheirrevilings.Forthemothshalleatthemuplikeagarment, and the worm shall eat them like wool; but myrighteousness shall be forever, and my salvation fromgenerationtogeneration.'

Mysoul,withallyourwakenedpowersSurveytheheavenlyprize;Norlet,theseglitteringtoysofearthAllureyourwanderingeyes.

ThesplendidcrownthatMosessought,Stillbeamsaroundhisbrow;ThoughsoongreatPharaoh'sscepteredprideWastaughtbydeathtobow.ThejoysandtreasuresofadayIcheerfullyresign;Richinthatlargeimmortalstore,Securedbygracedivine.Letfoolsmywiserchoicederide,AngelsandGodapprove;Norscornofmen,norrageofhell,Mysteadfastsoulshallmove.Withardent,eyethatbrightrewardIdailywillsurvey;AndinthebloomingprospectloseThesorrowsoftheway

THE SAVIORTAUGHTTHEMOST IMPORTANT, SUBLIME,ANDGLORIOUSDOCTRINES.As the great Teacher come from God, He daily taught andillustratedthosethingswhichconcernthegloryofHisHeavenlyFather and the salvation of man. He enlightens our mindsrespectingthenatureandexistenceofGod;ourlostconditionbynature; thewill ofGod concerningourduty and salvation; thenecessity of regeneration; the extent and spirituality of thedivine law- the impossibilityof justificationbyourownworks-the necessity of faith, repentance, and holiness- and thecertaintyofafuturestateofrewardandofpunishment.HealsoexhibitsHisowncharacterastheSonofGod,andtheSaviorofalost world; teaches the doctrine of redemption through Hisatoningblood;anddeclaresHiswillingnesstoreceiveeventhechiefofsinners.AppearingasthegreatLuminaryoftheworld,Hescattered,byHisteachings,thedarknesswhichbroodedovermankind respecting divine things, and pointed out theway toimmortal life and felicity. He exhibits in the clearest light themomentous concerns of the soul- its inestimable value- its

salvationasmostprecious-anditslossasunspeakable.Towarnsinnersof theirdanger in continuing to reject theoffersof thegospel,He speaksof thedark regionofwoe-of theworm thatneverdies-ofthefirewhichisneverquenched.AndtoanimateHis faithful servants amid the duties and trial's of life, point'sthemtothemansionsofglory,wheretheywillreignwithHim-wheretheyshallsitdownwithAbraham,Isaac,andJacob,atthebanquetof redeeming love-where they shallbemadeequal totheangelsofGod-wheretheyshallshineasthesunforeverandever.

Isaiah, with his prophetic pen, drew this most beautiful andstriking representation of the nature and excellency of thosedoctrines which Christ was to teach in the days of His publicministry on earth: 'The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me;because theLordhasanointedmetopreachgoodtidingsuntothe meek; He has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, toproclaimlibertytothecaptives,andtheopeningoftheprisontothosewhoareblind;toproclaimtheacceptableyearoftheLord,andthedayofvengeanceofourGod;tocomfortallthatmourn;to appoint unto those whomourn in Zion, to give unto thembeauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment ofpraiseforthespiritofheaviness;thattheymightbecalledtreesof righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might beglorified.' When our Savior had read a portion of these verywords in the synagogue,He said to the Jews, 'This day is thisScripturefulfilledinyourears.'

ThesetruthsHetaughtwithdivineauthority,whileHishearerslistenedwithastonishment.TheJewishofficers,whoweresenttoapprehendHimononeoccasion, confessed, thatnevermanspoke like this man.When He had ended His sermon on themount, the people were astonished at His doctrine: for Hetaughtthemasonehavingauthority,andnotasthescribes.TheSpirit ofGod and of glory rested onHim, and graciouswordsproceededfromHismouth.Hemakesknownwithauthorityandpower all those things thatHehasheard fromHisFather.He

taught all thosedoctrines that theFatherhaddirectedHim toteach; and He met with divine acceptance. At the waters ofbaptism, and on the mount of transfiguration, a voice fromheaven declares- 'This ismy beloved Son, in whom I amwellpleased-hearHim.'

TheMANNERinwhichChristwastodeclarethegreattruthsofHis divine mission was also clearly foretold by the prophet.'Lookatmyservant,whomIstrengthen.Heismychosenone,andIampleasedwithhim.IhaveputmySpirituponhim.Hewill reveal justice to the nations.Hewill be gentle-hewill notshoutor raisehis voice inpublic.Hewillnot crush thosewhoareweakorquenchthesmallesthope.Hewillbringfulljusticetoallwhohavebeenwronged.Hewillnotstopuntil truthandrighteousnessprevail throughout the earth.Evendistant landsbeyondtheseawillwaitforhisinstruction.'Throughthewholeperiod of His public ministry our blessed Savior was activelyemployed in preaching His heavenly doctrines, manifesting atthe same time themost undaunted firmness, and the greatestmeekness,humility,patience,tendernessandbenevolence.Tospreadtheraysofheavenlylight;Togivethemournerjoy;Topreachgladtidingstothepoor,WasHisdivineemploy.Midstkeenreproachandcruelscorn,PatientandmeekHestood;Hisfoes,ungrateful,soughtHislife;Helaboredfortheirgood.'

The doctrineswhichChrist taught are designed to console thewretched-tohealthewoundsofthesoulcausedbysin-tobringus from spiritual darkness into spiritual light- to translate usintoHispeaceful,holy,andheavenlykingdom.TheyarefoodtothesouloftheChristian-thejoyandrejoicingofhisheart-moretobedesiredthangold,yes, thenmuchfinegold- sweeteralsothanhoneyandthehoneycomb.Theyaboundwiththegreatestconsolationforthebelieveratallseasons,especiallyinthehour

of adversity,pain, anddeath.Howoften theyhave calmed thetroubled conscience, soothed the pillow of the afflicted, madethedimeyebrightwithhope,andcausedthesongofpraise tocomefromlips'quiveringwithagony!'

Howoftentheyhaveilluminatedthedarkconfinesofthegrave,and enabled the believer to enter, with songs of triumph, intothe joyofhisLord! 'My teachingwill fall on you like rain;myspeechwillsettlelikedew.Mywordswillfalllikerainontendergrass, like gentle showers on young plants.' Deut. 32:2. 'Thedoctrine of the gospel is like the dew and the gentle rain thatdescendsuponthetendergrass,withwhichitflourishes,andiskept green. Christians are like the several flowers in a garden,that have upon each of them the dew of heaven, which beingshaken with the wind, they let fall their dew at each other'sroots, whereby they are jointly nourished, and becomenourishersofoneanother.'-Bunyan

Oh,thepreciousnessofthedoctrinesoftheLordJesus-sofullofconsolation for all believers in every period, in everycircumstance,ineveryconditionoflife-sofraughtwithexcellentpreceptsfortheregulationofourconductwhilehere-sorepletewith promises of a rich, glorious, imperishable inheritancehereafter!How delightful to sit at the feet of Him, who is theway,thetruth,andthelife,andhearthegraciouswordswhichproceedfromHismouth!

'Oh,happytheywhoknowtheLord,WithwhomHedeignstodwell,HefeedsandcheersthembyHisword,Hisarmssupportthemwell.HehelpedHissaintsinancientdays,WhotrustedinHisname;AndwecanwitnesstoHispraise,Hisloveisstillthesame.'

Here,letusask-Whatimpressiondothosedivinetruthswhich

theSaviorhas declared,make on ourminds?Arewe listeningwiththedeepestinterestandthegreatestpleasuretothesayingsofHimwho has brought life and immortality to light? Do weregardthemasthelifeofoursouls-asalloursalvationandallourdesire?CanwesaywithJob:'IhaveesteemedthewordsofHis mouth more than my necessary food?' or are we viewingthemwithoutconcern?Aswevaluethesalvationofourpreciousimmortalsouls,letusseethatthoseblessedtruths,whichChristcame to reveal to us, aremost cordially received, obeyed, andloved.'Listentomycounselandbewise.Don'tignoreit.Happyare thosewho listen tome,watching formedailyatmygates,waitingformeoutsidemyhome!ForwhoeverfindsmefindslifeandwinsapprovalfromtheLord.Butthosewhomissmehaveinjuredthemselves.Allwhohatemelovedeath.'

Oh, Spirit of Light and Truth, we beseech You to bring thosecheering doctrines,which distilled as the dew from the lips ofthe Savior, home to our souls with saving power. May theybrighten our sorrows, dispel our fears, fill us with joyunspeakable, and prepare us for the participation of heaven'sglories.Oh, takewhat isChrist'sandshowituntous;guideusintoall truth; comfortus in all our tribulations; leadus in thepathofholiness,andbringitsinduetimetothefar-offlandofglory.Oh,sendoutYourlightandYourtruth:letthemleadus;letthembringusuntoYourholyHill,andtoYourtabernacles.

THE SAVIOR PERFORMED THE MOST STUPENDOUSMIRACLES.Hislifeonearthwastrulyalifeofmiracles.Isaiahhas depicted in vivid colors the nature of some of thosemiraculousworkswhichtheMessiahwastoperforminthedaysof His public ministry on earth. While setting forth theflourishingconditionofHiskingdomamongmen,hesays:'Andwhenhecomes,hewillopentheeyesoftheblindandunstoptheearsof thedeaf.The lamewill leap likeadeer, and thosewhocannotspeakwillshoutandsing!Springswillgushforthinthewilderness, and streams will water the desert. The parchedgroundwillbecomeapool,andspringsofwaterwillsatisfythe

thirstyland.'WehaveonlytoturntothehistoryofourblessedSavior to see these predictions literally accomplished. HowastonishingwerethemiraclesHeperformed!Howunlimitedthecontrol He exercised over the elements of nature, and allcreatures! Life and death were inHis hand. At His commanddiseasevanished;theblindwererestoredtosight;theearsofthedeaf opened; the lepers cleansed; demons cast out; the stormsandtempestsstilled;andthedeadraised.Yes,'WhenGodcamedownfromHeaven,theLivingGod,WhatsignsandwondersmarkedHisstatelyway?BrokeoutthewindsinmusicwhereHetrod?Shoneovertheheavensabrighter,softerday?Thedumbbegantospeak,theblindtosee,Andthelameleaped,andpainanddarknessfled;Themourner'ssunkeneyegrewbrightwithglee,Andfromthetombawokethewonderingdead.'

'WhocanutterthemightyactsoftheLord?whocanshowforthallHispraise?'LetusfollowHim,inthought,asHegoesabout,performingthosemiraculousworkswhichconfirmedHisdivinemission,andproclaimedthemajestyofHisGodhead.AtCanaofGalilee, we see Him performing His first miracle, by turningwater intowine, exhibitingHis glory, thatHis disciplesmightbelieveonHim.'ThisbeginningofmiraclesdidJesusinCanaofGalilee,andmanifestedHisglory;andHisdisciplesbelievedonHim.'OnanotheroccasionweseeHimsailingwithHisdisciplesontheSeaofGalilee,inafuriousstormwhichthreatenedthemwithdestruction.Heisasleep,whiletheshipisfearfullytossedby the waves and driven by the storm. The terrified disciplescometoHim,andawakeHimwiththesewords:'Lord,saveus,or we perish.' With perfect calmness He rises, and withsovereign will speaks to the tempestuous elements; and thestormiscalmedtorest.'WhenHearose,andrebukedthewindsandthesea;andtherewasagreatcalm.'Thesamevoicewhichon the morning of the creation said, 'Let there he light; andthere was light'; now says to the tempestuous sea, 'Peace, bestill'.Andthewindceased,andtherewasagreatcalm.Instantly

natureyieldsobedienceuntoherLord,andtheragingstormisstilledinamoment.Whentheoceanisrousedintofurybytheraging wind, it continues in a state of agitation long after thetempest has ceased to roar; butwhen Christ speaks theword,theeffectisinstantaneousandcomplete.'Hemakesthestormacalm,sothatthewavesthereofarestill.''Oh,LordGodofhosts,who isa strongLord likeuntoYou?Yourule theragingof thesea;whenthewavesthereofarise,Youstillthem.'Yes,'WhenraringwindsRushedfromtheircaverns,andresistlesssweptThefoamingwaves,whenhideousroaredthestorm,AsifthewildcontendingelementsHadstroveformastery,atHiscommandThetempestceased,thetoweringbillowssunkInundulationscalm,andzephyrsplayedUponthebosomofthepeacefuldeep.'

BlessedSavior,maywelearnfromthemiracleofthestillingofthetempest,thatoursafetyliesinbeingnearYou,inexercisingfaithinYou,andincallingonYouinthehourofdanger,inthelanguageof thedisciples, 'Lord, saveus, orweperish.'We arestillonthetempestuousseaoflife,andhoweverbrightoursky,and calm our sea at present, yet in amoment the windsmayrise, the tempests break,waves roll onwaves, and speedy andutter destruction stare us in the face. Oh, in that dark andstormyhourwhenallhumanaidwillbevain,beawake toourdilemma,evenuntoourcause;standbyus,andstilltheragingtempest with Your voice of Omnipotence and compassion;compass us about with songs of deliverance; direct our visionbeyondmortal scenes,beyond thenarrowseaof life, 'unto theother side,' the peaceful shore of glory, where every earthlystormwillbechangedintoaheavenlycalm-wherethetrialsoftimewillgiveplacetothejoysofeternity.

Oh,my soul, in the fearfulhourof calamity- of temptation-ofaffliction-ofbereavements,stilllooktoYourDivineMaster,whoisintercedingforYouinyonderheavens,andwhosevoicealone

cansaytotheweary,troubledsoul,'Peace,bestill'.Ifwewouldenjoythatpeacewhichtheworldcannotimpart,ifwewoulddieinpeace,andbesupremelyblestbeyondtheoceanoflife,letuskeepinthearkofGod,withoureyefixedontheGreatPilot,whowill cause our tempest-tossed bark to ride triumphantly overeverybillow,and toenterwith safety into thehavenofeternalfelicity. Amid all the turbulent scenes of earth, let us look fordeliverance toHimwhosevoice stilled thewavesof theSeaofGalilee, and whose hand upholds and governs the mightyuniverse.InthebeautifullanguageofRobertLeighton,'Nothingdoessoestablish themindamidtherollingsandturbulenceofpresent things, as both a look above them, and a look beyondthem;abovethem, to the steadyandgoodhandbywhich theyare ruled; andbeyond them, to the sweetandbeautiful end towhich,bythathand,theywillbebrought.'

WhenfirsttheSaviorwakenedme,AndshowedmewhyHedied,Hepointedoverlife'snarrowsea,Andsaid,"Toyonderside.IamthearkwhereNoahdwelt,AndheardthedeluderoarNosoulcanperishthathasfeltMyrest-Toyondershore."PeacefulandcalmthetideoflifeWhenfirstIsailedwithTheeMysinsforgiven-noinwardstrifeMybreastaglassysea.ButsoonthestormofpassionravesMysoulistempest-tossedCorruptionsrise,likeangrywaves,"Help,Master,Iamlost!""Peace!peace!bestill,youragingbreast,Myfullnessisforthee-"TheSaviorspeaksandallisrest,LikethewavesofGalilee.'

In following our Lord still further in the accomplishing ofHiswonderful works, we see Him at one time on a mountain,prayingaloneintheevening,whileHisdisciplesareinashipinthemidst of theSea ofGennesaret, tossedwithwaves, for thewind was contrary. In the fourth-watch of the night Christcomestothem,walkingontheroughsea.Hedispelstheirfearsbysaying, 'Beofgoodcheer; it isI;donotbeafraid.'Hishandsustains Peter from sinking, andHis word causes the wind tocease instantaneously;amiraclewhich fillsall in theshipwithamazement,andleadsthosewhoweresailingwiththedisciplestocomeandworship theSavior,by saying, 'Truly,Youare theSon of God.' Of Him who thus walks on the great deep,controlling nature in herwild uproar, it is beautifully written:'Yourwayis in thesea,andYourpath inthegreatwaters,andYour footsteps are not known.' 'Who alone spreads out theheavens,andtreadsuponthewavesofthesea.'

Again,webeholdtheSavioratthegraveofLazarus,proclaimingthemajestyofHisGodhead,showingthatheistheresurrectionand the life,uttering that thanksgivingprayer; 'Father, I thankYouthatYouhaveheardMe,'and'thenJesusshouted,"Lazarus,comeout!"AndLazarus cameout, bound in grave clothes, hisfacewrappedinaheadcloth.Jesustoldthem,"Unwraphimandlethimgo!"

"Comeforth!"Hecries,"youdead!"OGod,whatmeansthatstrangeandsuddensound,Thatmurmursfromthetomb?Thatghastlyhead,Withfuneralfilletsbound?Itisalivingform-Theloved,thelost,thewon,Wonfromthegrave,corruption,andtheworm-"AndisnotthistheSonofGod?"theywhispered,whilethesisterspouredTheirgratitudeintears,fortheyhadknowntheLord.'

Themiracleswhich our Lordwrought in the days ofHis flesh

are sonumerous, thatwehave space only tomention someofthem. Besides performing those already named, we find Himhealing the nobleman's son; raising the daughter of Jairus;healingtheparalytic;healingthecenturion'sservant;raisingthewidow's son; healing the paralyzedman at Bethesda; openingthe eyes of one born blind; restoring themanwith awitheredband;healingonedeafanddumb;andopeningtheeyesoftwoblindmennearJericho.

ThegranddesignofthesemiracleswastomanifestthegloryofJesus, to show the world the truth ofHis divinemission, andleadmentoreceiveHimasthepromisedMessiah.TheChristianreligion is thus established amid the most astonishing andrepeated demonstrations of miraculous power. 'It was amiraculousmercy thatGod should look uponus in our blood,and miraculous condescension that His Son should take ournature;andeventhis favorwecouldnotbelievewithoutmanymiracles:andsocontrarywasourconditiontoallpossibilitiesofhappiness,thatifsalvationhadnotmarchedtousallthewayinmiracle,wehadperishedintheruinsofasadeternity.'

IN HIS PUBLIC MINISTRY ON EARTH OUR SAVIORMANIFESTED THE GREATEST SYMPATHY FOR THOSE INDISTRESS.ThehistoryofHiswholeearthlycourseevincesthatHis heartwas always full of sympathy for fallenman- thatHewasevertouchedwiththefeelingofour infirmities.Howoftendo we find Him moved with compassion for the children ofearth,intheirdiseases,needs,temptations,persecutions,trials,andbereavements!HowoftendoweseeHimaffordingreliefinthehourwhenallistrouble,anddarkness,andgrief;andwhennohumanarmcanbringdeliveranceorpeace.SomuchdidHesympathize with others in their distresses, that it is said, 'HeHimselftookourinfirmities,andboreoursicknesses.'

Take the following instances in His life as illustrative of Hisineffablecompassion.Ononeoccasion,whenHelookedonthefive thousand whom He miraculously fed, it is said, 'He was

moved with compassion toward them, because they were assheepwithout a shepherd: andHe began to teach themmanythings.'Whenthe lepercametoHimwithearnestrequest thathemight be made clean, we are told that 'Jesus, moved withcompassion,putforthHishand,andtouchedhim,andsaysuntohim,Iwill;beclean.'Andseehowhiscompassionflows,whenthe two blind men beseech Him to impart sight to them- 'SoJesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: andimmediatelytheyreceivedsight,andfollowedHim.'

ButletuslookagainatthecompassionateSaviorofmen,asHejourneys from place to place, effectingHis wondrous deeds ofcharityandlove.ShortlyafterHehadperformedHismiracleofhealingthecenturion'sservant,wefindHim'withmanyofHisdisciples andmany people,' approaching the city ofNain, andmeeting at the gate of the city a sad procession following theremains of a young man to the grave. This was truly amelancholyscene.Awidowhas lostheronlyson-hersupport,and the solace of her life; and her heart is touched with thekeenest anguish. She mourns for an only son; and who calldescribethebitternessofsuchamourning?'Makemourningasforanonly son,mostbitter lamentation.' 'Iwillmake itas themourning of an only son.' 'They shall mourn for him, as onemournsforhisonlyson.'ThenarrativerespectingtheyouthofNain is beautifully and touchingly related by the evangelistLuke. 'NowwhenHe camenear to the gate of the city, beholdtherewas adeadman carriedout, theonly sonof hismother,andshewasawidow;manypeoplefromthecitywerewithher.As Jesus witnesses this sad spectacle of grief, and sees theafflictedmotherbathedintearsforthelossofheronlyson,Heismovedwith compassion, and immediately comes forward torelieve her distress. 'Soon afterward Jesus went with hisdisciplestothevillageofNain,withagreatcrowdfollowinghim.A funeral procession was coming out as he approached thevillagegate.Theboywhohaddiedwastheonlysonofawidow,andmanymourners from the villagewerewithher.When theLord saw her, his heart overflowed with compassion. "Don't

cry!"hesaid.Thenhewalkedovertothecoffinandtouchedit,andthebearersstopped."Youngman,"hesaid, "getup."Thenthedeadboysatupandbegantotalktothosearoundhim!AndJesusgavehimbacktohismother.'Luke7:11-15

What a touching instance is here presented of the supremetenderness of Him who gives unto those who mourn in Zionbeauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment ofpraiseforthespiritofheaviness!Thepiousmindwillloveoftento turn to a scene which called forth so much compassion inChristJesus,who is thesourceofall life:whocame todespoilthegraveofitsprey,andtoguidethebelievertothatlandwheredeathisswallowedupinvictory,andwhereallarerobedinthegarmentsofeternalsalvation.

ButletusrecallanothermostimpressivesceneinthelifeofourblessedSavior.LetusconsiderHimatthegraveofLazarus,andseeHis tearsofcompassion freely flow.Approaching the tombof His friend, and seeing the sisters of the departed weeping,and theJewsalsoweeping,who came to console the bereavedsisters,JesusHimself 'groaned in thespirit,andwastroubled.'AndasHecontemplatesthemelancholysceneinitstrueaspect-remembers themiserieswhich sinhasbroughtuponour race-seeswithHis omniscient eye the graves in all ages opening toreceive the remains of loved ones- and bears the cries ofbereaved,agonizedhearts,risingfromearth'shabitationsdowntothecloseoftime-HegivesventtoHisownfeelingsintearsofsorrow.'Jesuswept.'Amazingsight!TheSonofGod,theCreatoroftheuniverse,theLordofgloryintears!HowplainlydothosetearsshowthetendernessofHishumanity!Andhowanimatingfor themourner inZion to think, that theheart of Jesus, nowthatHereignsinglory,isstillfullofsympathy,andfullofloveforHis suffering disciples in this valley of tears! Oh, this is asweet,adelightfulthought-'ForwehavenotaHighPriestwhocannotbetouchedwiththefeelingofourinfirmities:butwasinallpointstemptedlikeasweare,yetwithoutsin.'

Weepingbeliever,youwhosetearsareflowingoverthegraveofabelovedfriend, come toJesus for sympathy,and tellHimallyourgrief.Hehaswordsofcomfortforyou-preciouspromises.Hecanconsoleyouasnoneelsecan.Heisthesameinallages,thesameyesterday,today,andforever.Theeyethatdroppeditstears at the tomb of Lazarus,will be fixed upon you in all thescenes of anguish through which you may be called to passbeforereaching the brightworld of everlasting joy.RememberthatHewho isnowseatedon the throneofheaven, radiant incelestialglory,wasonceafflictedonearth,thatHemightknowhow to sympathize with you in the hour your unutterableanguish. Oh, rejoice that you have so sympathizing a Friend,whoisreadytomitigateyourgrief,andtoconductyoutothosehappy mansions, where pious friends shall be reunited to beseparated no more, and where God shall wipe away all tearsfromtheeye.

WhocantellhowgreatisthesympathyoftheSonofGod,whocame from thebosomof theFather; from the unapproachablesplendor of Heaven; to bear our infirmities, to lighten ourburdens, to wipe the tears from our eyes, and to turn oursorrows into everlasting joys?When you are called to take thelast look of a beloved friend, and to follow his remains to thedarkandsilentgrave,thinkoftheSaviorweepingatthetombofLazarus,sympathizingwiththemourners- soothing theirpain-cheering theirheartsby thegloriousdeclaration thatHe is theresurrection and the life, and that whoever believes in Him,thoughheweredead,yetshallhelive.AwaysviewJesusasthegreat Sympathizer with His disciples; and in the time of yourkeenest anguish and sorest bereavement, look to Him forcompassionandrelief.Hewillregardyourcriesofmisery.Yes,the Great High Priest of our profession, whose heart felt andbledforsinners,willspeaksoothinglytoyou,andsendyoutheComfortertobewithyouforever,andtogiveyouaforetasteofheaven even in a world of tribulation. Oh, the ineffablecompassion of our blessed Redeemer! In seasons of devoutretirement let us oftenmuse on these affectingwords- - Jesus

wept!

'Jesuswept!Thesetearsareover,ButHisheartisstillthesame;Kinsman,Friend,andElderBrother,IsHiseverlastingname.Savior,whocanlovelikeThee,GraciousOneofBethany!Whenthepangsoftrialseizeus,Whenthewavesofsorrowroll,IwilllaymyheadonJesus,Pillowofthetroubledsoul.SurelynonecanfeellikeThee,WeepingOneofBethany!Jesuswept!Andstillinglory,Hecanmarkeachmourner'stear;LovingtoretracethestoryOftheheartsHesolacedhere.Lord,whenIamcalledtodie,LetmethinkofBethany!Jesuswept!ThattearofsorrowIsalegacyoflove;Yesterday,today,tomorrow,Hethesamedoeseverprove.Youareallinalltome,LivingOneofBethany!

WHILE HE SOJOURNED ON EARTH THE SAVIOR SHEDTEARSOFSORROWOVERLOSTSINNERS.HereHis divinecompassion isagainexhibited ina strongandmarvelous light.WhenHelookedattheimpenitentsinnerrejectingtheoffersofmercy and eternal life, and sporting on the very brink ofdestruction, His heart was made sorrowful. What tears ofcommiseration fell from His eyes when He thought of thesethings! 'Riversofwaters rundownmyeyes,because theykeepnotYourLaw.'Takeonemostremarkableandstrikingexample.Contemplate the Savior weeping over impenitent Jerusalem.

The time of His departure is at hand. The last week of Hispersonal ministry has come; and He is now approachingJerusalemforthelasttime.GainingthesummitoftheMountofOlives,fromwhichsograndaviewofJerusalemisobtained,Hepauses and gazes upon that city and its magnificent templewhichshoneundertheraysofthesun,like'amountainofsnowstuddedwithgold.'Hethinksofthefearfuldownfallofthecity,whose wicked inhabitants had shed so much righteous blood,and whose darkest act of wickedness was so soon to becommitted in His own crucifixion. The cup of Jerusalem'siniquityisnowalmostfull.Thecryissoontobeheardthroughher streets, 'His blood be on it us, and on our children.' TheSaviorknewthis;butstillHelooksonthewickedandrebelliouscitywithunutterableconcern.TearsofcompassionategriefstartinHis eyes, and rolldownHis cheeks.Heutters amost bitterlamentation over the city, whose scenes of coming woe, andfamine, and carnage, and desolation, all rise before Hispropheticeye.'AsheapproachedJerusalemandsawthecity,heweptoveritandsaid,"Ifyou,evenyou,hadonlyknownonthisdaywhatwouldbringyoupeace-butnowitishiddenfromyoureyes."

WemustrememberthatthesecompassionatetearsoftheSaviorwereshedinthehourofHistriumphalentranceintoJerusalem,whenthemultitudecried,'HosannatotheSonofDavid;Blessedis He that comes in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in thehighest.'Butamidalltheseloudhosannasthatresoundfromthesummit of Olivet, the compassionate Savior weeps overJerusaleminherlostcondition.Hedoesnotpausetodropatearoverhisownsufferingsnowsonear.No.Heseemstoforgetallthe agonizing scenes of Gethsemane and Calvary, while Hemourns over the impenitent city.Oh, thepitying love ofJesusforsinners!Oh,theintensityofHisdisinterestedbenevolence!

Butthisisnotall-Histendercompassionisagainmanifestedforthecitythathadslaintheprophets,andrejectedHimofwhomthey wrote- the great Prophet, the true Messiah. Soon after

reaching thecity,perhapswhen leaving the temple for the lasttime, He utters these other words of touching grief: "OJerusalem,Jerusalem,thecitythatkillstheprophetsandstonesGod's messengers! How often I have wanted to gather yourchildren together as a hen protects her chicks beneath herwings,butyouwerenotwilling.Andnowlook,yourhouseislefttoyou,emptyanddesolate."Oh,whatmeltingtonesofpityarethese, coming from the lips of a despised and rejected Savior!Whattenderwordsofsorrow,respectingthecityofHislove-thecitywhichHehadchosen,andthehouseofwhichHesaid,'Mynameshallbethere.'

LetusadmiretheinfinitecompassionofChrist.WeseehowHepitiessinnersobstinatelybentontheirowndestruction.Hehasnopleasureintheirdeath. 'AsI live,withtheLordGod,Ihaveno pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wickedshould turn fromhisway and live.'Oh,will not the tears of acompassionateSaviormovetheheartsofunconcernedsinners,andbringthemtorepentance?Willtheystillgooninthewaysofsin,whenoutofcompassionfortheirsoulstheLordofgloryweeps?WilltheystilldespisethatrichmercywhichcausedHimto weep, and bleed, and die? Oh, let us look to our mercifulRedeemerbeforeit istoolate-beforethedoorof life is foreverclosed-beforeourhouseisleftuntousdesolate.MaytheSaviornever weep over us as He did over the impenitent sinners ofJerusalem;'Ifyouhadknown,evenyou,atleastinthisyourday,thethingswhichbelongtoyourpeace?Butnowtheyarehiddenfromyoureyes.'Christ isnowreadytoreceiveus,andencircleus in thearmsofHis forgiving love,andcarryus safely to themansionsofglory,whereeveryteariswipedaway,wherethereis no more pain, nor sorrow; for sin finds no place in thoseblissfulabodes.

Before the things which concern our everlasting peace arehiddenfromoureyes,letuscometoJesus,andabideunderHisshadow, and rest in His unchanging love. Then we will neverhearfromthelipsoftheManofCalvary,whoshallonedaysit

onHisgreatwhitethronetojudgetheworld,thosewordswhichwill fill the soul of the finally impenitent with indescribableterror:"Icalledyousooften,butyoudidn'tcome.Ireachedoutto you, but you paid no attention. You ignoredmy advice andrejectedthecorrectionIoffered.SoIwilllaughwhenyouareintrouble! I will mock you when disaster overtakes you- whencalamityovercomesyoulikeastorm,whenyouareengulfedbytrouble, andwhen anguish and distress overwhelm you. I willnotanswerwhentheycryforhelp.Eventhoughtheyanxiouslysearchforme,theywillnotfindme.FortheyhatedknowledgeandchosenottofeartheLord.TheyrejectedmyadviceandpaidnoattentionwhenIcorrectedthem.That iswhytheymusteatthebitterfruitoflivingtheirownway.Theymustexperiencethefullterrorofthepaththeyhavechosen.Fortheyaresimpletonswhoturnawayfromme-todeath.Theyarefools,andtheirowncomplacencywill destroy them." Let us nowmake sure of ourinterest in Christ, remembering that the shadows of life'seveningwillsoongatheraroundus, and that there isnowork,nordevice,norknowledge,norwisdominthegrave.

Oh, compassionate Redeemer, still look in pity from Yourexalted throne upon a world of sinners. Let Your mercy andforgiveness be extended to those who have hitherto sounreasonably disregarded Your tears, Your entreaties, Yoursufferings, Your death. Open their eyes that theymay see thethingswhichbelongtotheireternalpeace.Showthemthevanityoftheworld,thefearfulterminationofthewaysofsin,andthesolemnrealitiesofeternity.Oh,reachoutYourarm,andbringthemfromthehorriblepit,fromthemiryclay.Settheirfretonthe Rock of Ages; and put a new song in their mouth, evenpraiseuntoourGod.MaytheyshowforthYourloving-kindnessfrom day to day, until, in the Jerusalem above, they foreverstandbeforeYourthroneastrophiesofYourrichandmarvelousgrace.

Now,willnotChristiansweepwith theSonofGod for sinnersperishingintheirmidst?Oh,thateveryoneofuscouldfeel, in

some measure, the inexpressible tenderness of Jesus for theunconverted! Look at their fearful condition. See them goingdowntothepitofthelost-evennow,standingonthevergeofagulf of irretrievable ruin.Oh, think of the loss of an immortalsoul;andweepforthedespisersofEmmanuel'smercy.ThusdidJesusweep.Ah!itmustbeagreatcalamitythatcausestheSonofGodtoshedthesetearsofgrief,andtopouroutHissouluntodeath.Heknowsfullwellhowpreciousistheredemptionofthesoulsofmen.Hehastaughtusthatthesoulisofinfinitelymorevaluethantheworld. 'Forwhatshallitprofitaman,ifheshallgain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall amangiveinexchangeforhissoul?'Ifweproperlyvaluethesoul,wewillgrieveforthosewhoseemtobelivingfarfromGodandrighteousness.AndifwehavetheSpiritofChrist,wewillnotonlymournforthem,butalsolabortobringthemtothefootstoolofmercy;toinstructthemintheknowledge of divine truth; to point them to the crown whichshines for the righteous in heaven; and to warn them of thedoomwhichawaits thewicked in the landofwoe. In languagelikethatwhichwasspokenbyMosestoHobab,wewillbeseechthemtocomewithusaswe journey through thewildernessofthisworldtotheheavenlyCanaan.'WearejourneyinguntotheplaceofwhichtheLordsaid,Iwillgiveityou:comeyouwithus,and we will do you good: for the Lord has spoken goodconcerningIsrael.'Andwhenwelookonaworldofimpenitent,perishingsinners,wewillbereadytoexclaimwiththeprophet:'Oh,thatmyheadwerewaters,andmyeyesafountainoftears,thatImightweepdayandnightfortheslainofthedaughterofmypeople!'

DidChristweepoversinners?Andshallourchecksbedry?Letfloodsofpenitentialgrief,Burstforthfromeveryeye.TheSonofGodintears,Angelswithwondersee!Oh,beastonished,oh,mysoul,

Heshedthosetearsforthee.Heweptthatwemightweep;Eachsindemandsatear;Inheavenalonenosinisfound,Forthere'snoweepingthere.''

THESAVIORINGETHSEMANE

ThenJesusbroughtthemtoanolivegrovecalledGethsemane,and he said, "Sit here while I go on ahead to pray."Matthew26:36

'AmidalltheunspeakabletormentofmindwhichJesussufferedduringHisstay inGethsemane,HestillappearedinHisdivinegreatness.Howmuch soever the burden ofGod'swrathwhichlay upon Him crushed Him to the ground, His soul still tookcourage, and was strongly invigorated through His confidentrelianceuponHisfather.'-Sturm

GETHSEMANEcanIforget?orthereYourconflictsee,Youragonyandbloodysweat,andnotrememberThee?WhentothecrossIturnmyeyes,andrestonCalvary,OLambofGod,mysacrifice!ImustrememberThee!RememberYouinallYourpains,andallYourlovetome;Yes,whileabreathorpulseremains,IwillrememberThee!Andwhenthesefailinglipsgrowdumb,andmindandmemoryflee,WhenYoushallinYourkingdomcome,Jesusrememberme.J.Montgomery.

GETHSEMANE is a name on which the Christian will everdelighttodwellindevoutmeditation.Onearthitsremembrancefillshisheartwithsublimejoy;whileinheavenitwillcallforththemostelevatedandenrapturingsongstoalleternity.Andisit

notmostreasonablethatsuchshouldbethecase?CanweeverforgetanamesosacredinthelifeofourblessedSavior-aname,theverymentionofwhichinstantlybringstoourviewsomeofthemosttender,andpainful,andhallowedscenestheworldhasever witnessed? No. It must be a name ever dear to us; andwhile, in the true spirit of a Christian, we think of the sorrowandanguishof theRedeemer,whom forour sakes poured outHis souluntodeath,wewillnot fail to rememberGethsemanewithfeelingsofsorrowandjoy,admirationandgratitude.

Oh,my soul, in the calm retreats of the closet, away from thestirringscenesofthisvainpassingworld,inthatplacewherethesweetestcommunionwithHeavenissooftenenjoyed,seriouslycontemplate Gethsemane as the solemn scene of Emmanuel'sagony.ThinkofthesorrowsofyourRedeemer,whenHebecameavictimonthealtarofdivinewrath;whenthecupoftrembling,andafflictionandanguishwasput inHishands;andwhenHedrankittotheverydregs.ThinkwhatapriceitcosttheSonofGodtoredeemyoursoulfromgoingdowntothepitofthelost.SeeHimdescending fromheaven tobecomeamanof sorrowsonearth-ableedingvictiminthegardenofGethsemane,andonthe cross of Calvary. See what intense sufferings He enduredwhenHebecamethepropitiationforoursins.FollowHimtothelastsolemnscenesinHisdivinepilgrimage-toGethsemane-tothejudgmenthall-toGolgotha.

AsufferingSaviorhasprocuredforusallthefelicitiesofheaven;andshouldwenotoftenrememberHiminthoseagoniesofHislife andHis death, by which such glory was obtained- a glorywhich surpasses all conception- a glorywhich reaches throughalleternity-anexceedingandeternalweightofglory!AndwhilewedwellontheclosingscenesofHislifeonearth-thosescenesof extreme sorrow- can our hearts remain unmoved at acontemplationso touching, sosublime,soglorious?Oh,mayaconsiderationof this themesolemnize, elevate, and rejoiceourheartsthroughallthedaysofourearthlypilgrimage!

SCENES PRECEDING THE SAVIOR'S SUFFERING. BeforetracingthefootstepsofourSaviortothegardenofGethsemane,let us advert to someof the scenes immediatelyprecedingHissufferings and agony there. After having passed about threeyearsinthedischargeofHispublicministry,thetimecamethatHeshould,byHisdeath,putawaytransgression,andmakeanend of sin, and make reconciliation for iniquity, and bring ineverlastingrighteousness- thatHe should leave theworld, andgototheFather.Thatlast,painfulhourofwhichHehadoftenspoken-oneof themosteventfulsince timebegan- isathand;andwithallHissufferingsfull inview,Jesusgoesforth, inthevehemency ofHis love, to agonize, to bleed, and to die as ouratoningrepresentative.

HeapproachesHisagonyanddeathinamannerworthyofHisgloriouscharacterasourMediator,perfectlyresignedtothewillofHeaven, and firmly resolved to receive the stroke of divinewrath which the Father was to inflict on Him as our Surety.Hear Him expressing His acquiescence in the will of HisHeavenly Father, andHis resolution to suffer, the just for theunjust;'ThecupwhichmyFatherhasgivenme,shallInotdrinkit?''IdelighttodoYourwill,OmyGod:yes,Yourlawiswithinmy heart.'He even looks forwardwith eager desire to the all-importanthourwhen,byHisvicarioussufferingsanddeath,Heshouldbreakthecaptive'schains,andlettheoppressedgofree.'Ihaveabaptismtobebaptizedwith;andhowamIstraiteneduntilitbeaccomplished!'

Forthepurposeofaccomplishingthegreatandgloriousdesignsofdivinegrace, theSavior, accompaniedbyHisdisciples, goesup to Jerusalem for the last time.Most truly affecting are theevents connectedwithHishistory during that solemnnight inwhichHewasbetrayed.GuidedbytheWordofGod,letusviewthemwiththeeyeoffaith;andweshallseeinthoseactionsandsufferings of Jesus that which will cause our hearts to rejoicewith unspeakable joy, and to blessHis holy name forever andever.ThesouloftheRedeemerisnowtobemadeanofferingfor

sin;theLambofGodisnowtobleedonthealtar.Nowisdivinejusticetobesatisfied;theplanofsalvationaccomplished;Satanvanquished;deathdestroyed;andtheportalsofheavenopenedto ransomed sinners. 'Now is the judgment of thisworld: nowshalltheprinceofthisworldbecastout.AndI,ifIbeliftedupfrom the earth, will draw all men unto me.' The work to beachieved is immensely great. No human or angelic arm canexecuteit;nonebutadivinePersonagecancarryoutthemightyplanof redeeminga lostworld.And in viewof thevastnessoftheundertaking,nowonderthateventheSaviorHimselfshouldbe troubled in His human soul, and that His prayer to HisHeavenlyFathershouldbe:'Nowismysoultroubled;andwhatshall I say?Father, saveme from this hour; but for this causecameIuntothishour.'

OblessedJesus!thiswasbutthecommencementofthoselast,extremegriefswhichYoudidsustain,whenitpleasedtheFathertobruiseYou,andtoafflictYoursoulforoursins.Youhadnotyet reached the scenesofYour sufferings in the garden, in thejudgment-hall,andonCalvary-Youwerenotyetcoveredwithabloodysweat,norcrownedwiththorns,nornailedtothecross.But even then our sins transferred to You, made Your soulexceeding sorrowful, and agitated Your whole frame. HowamazingthegracethatdwellsinYou,oursuffering,ouradorableRedeemer! How brightly did Your incomparable love shine inthatnightofsorrowandpain,whenYouwentforthtoagonizeinthe garden! Oh, may we ever view with new and increasingdelight the wondrous manifestations of Your infinitebenevolence to Your disciples in those solemnmomentswhenYouwerepreparingtoleavethemandtodie!

THEINSTITUTIONOFTHELORD'SSUPPER.OneofthemostpreciousmemorialsoftheSavior'sdyinglovewastheinstitutionof the Sacramental Supper. Before going forth to suffer in thegarden, He gathers around Himself His disciples in 'a largeupper room' at Jerusalem; and there institutes that holyordinance which will be observed by the Church through all

time,ascommemorativeofHisdeathandredeeminglove.Theoccasion is one of the greatest interest and solemnity. Howbeautiful and impressive is the Scripture narrative of theinstitution of that sacred commemorative ordinance! 'Then atthepropertimeJesusandthetwelveapostlessatdowntogetheratthetable.Jesussaid,"Ihavelookedforwardtothishourwithdeeplonging,anxioustoeatthisPassovermealwithyoubeforemysufferingbegins.ForItellyounowthatIwon'teatitagainuntilitcomestofulfillmentintheKingdomofGod.'Breadandwine,theemblemsofaSavior'sbrokenbodyandshedblood,arenowdistributed.'Astheywereeating,JesustookaloafofbreadandaskedGod'sblessingon it.Thenhebroke it inpiecesandgaveittothedisciples,saying,"Takeitandeatit,forthisismybody."AndhetookacupofwineandgavethankstoGodfor it.Hegaveittothemandsaid,"Eachofyoudrinkfromit,forthisis my blood, which seals the covenant between God and hispeople.Itispouredouttoforgivethesinsofmany.'

Herewehave setbeforeus, thebreadof life, and thewateroflife- thatbread ofwhich ifwe eat,we shall never hunger; andthatwaterofwhichifwedrink,weshallneverthirst.Thisisthelifeofoursouls-thefountainofeternallifeandglory.Omysoul,come to this living fountain of waters- this deep, overflowingwell of salvation, and quench your thirst in the never-failingstreams; so shall you be refreshed and invigorated for life'sjourneyand life'sconflict,untilat length,borne toParadisebysome appointed messenger from the skies, you shall foreverdrinkof thosecrystalstreamswhich flow 'fastby the throneofGod.'

'Oh,fountainofeternallife,Whosestreamsforeverflow,Springupwithinmywaitingheart,Andallyourblissbestow.Refreshmysoulwithlivingstreams,Untilholyfruitsabound;Achosentreeofrighteousness,

OnZion'ssacredground.'

HowamazingwastheloveofJesustoHisdisciples inthatsadnightofHissufferingandbetrayal!HeisnotunmindfulofthemeveninthehourofHisdeepestdistress,whenallthe'wavesandbillows' of divine wrath are about to pass over His own soul-when the mysterious agony of Gethsemane, and the rackingtorture of Calvary, rise before His vision in all their terribleforms.To the lastHewatchesoverHischosen friendswithaneyethatneverslumbers,andaheart thatnevergrowscold.Sowill Jesus command His blessing upon all those who trulyconfide in Him as their only hope and Savior. In a world ofsorrowful vicissitudes He will sustain and cheer their faintingspirits with the ample provisions of His grace; and when thestruggleoflifeisover,Hewillbringthem,withcrownsontheirheads, and palms in their hands, to rejoice eternally withAbraham, Isaac and Jacob, in the upper room of glory, in theJerusalemabove.

'HavinglovedHisownwhichwereintheworld,Helovedthemuntotheend.'Hesuffersanddieswith theminHisheart.Ournames are too deeply engraved in the heart of Jesus to beeffacedbyall the floodsof sorrow that roll overHim.Nothingcan extinguish the ardor ofHis love for sinners.Manywaterscannotwenchthislove,neithercanthefloodsdrownit.Oh,theadmirable love of Jesus in the hour of His parting with Hisdisciples-inthehouroftheanguishofHissoul!Wasthereeverlove,inearthorheaven,equaluntothis?

THESAVIOR'SVALEDICTORYDISCOURSE.LetuslookagainatthegraciousconductofourLordtowardsHisdisciplesinthatmost sorrowful night ofHis earthly sojurn, andwhileHe,wasstill with them in that upper room. In that solemn hour Heseems to forget His near approaching agonies; and instead offortifyingHisownsoulagainstthecomingconflict,spendsHislastmomentsinadministeringcomforttoHisfaithfuldisciples.After instituting the sacred supper He delivers His most

touching and consolatory valedictory discourse. Never beforewassuchadiscourseuttered.Itisfullofthetendernessandloveof Emmanuel. The parting words of the blessed Jesus! Whatpious heart is not thrilled with a feeling of heavenly rapturewhentheyareremembered?

Andwhilethelastwordsofthegreatandthegoodarecarefullytreasuredinthemindbysurvivingfriends,shouldnotthedyingwordsof theLordJesusbemuchmoredeeplyengraved in theheartsofHis followers?Where canwe find such lastwords asthosewhichcamefromthelipsoftheSonofGod?Invainwillwe search for such words of heavenly wisdom as those withwhich the Savior closed His public ministry. Truly none everspoke like Jesus. And if we would enjoy the greatest comfort,and find the highest pleasure, let us daily, as His faithfuldisciples, carefully treasure His sayings. Let us listen withheartfeltjoytothosetonesofmorethanhumantendernessandlove,whichfall fromHis lips inthatupperroomatJerusalem,while the eleven disciples are gathered around Him. In theoutpouringofHisheartHetherespeaksofthedeepmysteriesofthegloriousgospel- tellsHis sorrowing friends thatHe isnowglorified,andthatGodisglorifiedinHim-remindsthemofHissuddendeparture- commands them to love one another- givesthemHispeace-promises themHisHolySpirit- assures thosewho He is going to prepare a place for them in those 'manymansions'inHisFather'shouse;andthathewillcomeagaintoreceivethemhometoglory.

How the sorrowing hearts of the disciples must have beensoothed,andhowtheirprospectsmusthavebrightened,astheirdivine Lord and Master spoke, in accents so sweet and socheering, of those 'manymansions' of glory,where they are todwellwithHim througha coming eternity, andwhere there isroom and provisions for all the redeemed! And oh, whatChristian pilgrim does not love to muse on so delightful arepresentationofheaven,hisabiding,happyhome!It ishighlypleasing forus thus to thinkofheaven- toknowthat thereare

'manymansions' prepared for us in our Father's house above,andthatthereisyetroomingloryforallwhomaycometotheSavior.Yes, there isyetroomonthegoldenstreetsof theNewJerusalem-roominthepresenceoftheangelsofGod-roominthepresenceoftheKingofglory.Oh,bowcheeringthethought-'In my Father's house are many mansion!' 'And yet there isroom.'

'MyFather'shouseonhigh.Homeofmysoul,hownigh,Attimes,tofaith'sforeseeingeye,Yourgoldengatesappear!Ah!thenmyspiritfaintsToreachthelandIlove,Thebrightinheritanceofsaints,Jerusalemabove.'

THESAVIOR'SLASTPRAYER.TheSaviornowoffersthatmostwonderful and earnest prayer commencing with these words,'Father,thehourhascome;glorifyyourSonthatyourSonalsomay glorify You.'He prays forHis disciples, that theymay bepreserved from the evil of the world, kept in unity, andsanctifiedthroughthetruth.'Iprayforthem:Ipraynotfortheworld,butforthosewhoYouhavegivenme;fortheyareYours.'He also prays for all true believers in all ages of the world.'Neither pray I for these alone; but for those also who shallbelieveonmethroughtheirword.'ItisnotthewillofChristthatthe heirs of glory, those whom He has redeemed with Hispreciousblood,shouldbelongseparatedfromHiminthisvalleyof tears.AndthisconstrainsHimtooffer that ferventpetition,that theymight bewithHim in the heavenly home, to beholdHis glory, and to share with Him in that glory which He hadwith the Father before the foundation of the world. 'Father, Idesire that those also whom You have given me, be with mewhere I am; that they may behold my glory which You havegivenme.'

What most encouraging words are these for the disciples ofJesus,whoarestillstrugglingamidthesorrowsandtheconflictsofthepresentlife!Howgloriousthehopeofthebeliever!Tobeforever with Christ; to behold His glory; to enjoy His blessedsociety-thisisheaven;thisistheParadiseofGod!Thisiswhatwillconstitutethatfullnessofjoywhichawaitstheredeemedinthosemansionsoflightbeyondtheshadowyvalleyofmortality.ThatallHissincerefollowersmayenjoythisuntoldblessedness,JesuspraysontheveryeveofHissufferingsanddeath.

THE SAVIOR GOES WITH HIS DISCIPLES TOGETHSEMANE.Thelastprayerisnowmade.Thehymnwhichcloses the solemnity is sung; and the Savior, accompanied byHisdisciples,goesfromthatupperroom,whereHehadutteredsuch heavenly words. 'And when they had sung a hymn, theywent out unto the mount of Olives.' 'When Jesus had spokenthese words, He went forth with His disciples over the brookKedron, where was a garden, into whichHe entered, andHisdisciples.' Let us follow that little band to the scene of theSavior'sagony. It is in thestillnessof thenight.The full-orbedmoonis, perhaps, shining upon themas, in that solemnhour,they pass along the streets of Jerusalem towards the easterngates. (It will be remembered, that the Passover was alwaysobservedatfullAndthefactofthemoonbeingfullatthetimeofthe Savior's agony and death, proves that the extraordinaryeclipse which took place whileHe was extended on the cross,wassupernatural.)LeavingthecitytheydescendMountMoriah,and crossing the brookKedron, soon arrive at the entrance ofthegardenofGethsemane,situatedat thefootof theMountofOlives.ThisvalleyoftheKedron,withitslarge,spreadingolive-trees,wasafavoritespotwithourLordinthedaysofHispublicministry. To the garden there He frequently resorted formeditation and prayer. Away from the noise and bustle of thecrowdedcity,He loved, after enduring theheat andburdenofthe day, to meditate and pray in Gethsemane- a spot sofavorable for repose, reflection, and devotion. There He hadenjoyed the sweetest communion with His Father, and our

Father, while, at the same time, His human nature wasstrengthened for the discharge of His mediatorial work; andthereHehadoftenretiredwithHisdisciplesatevening,totalktothemofthethingspertainingtothekingdomofheaven.Forthe last time in His divine pilgrimage, He now comes to thissilentretreat,thatHemightdrinkHiscupofagony,andprepareHimself for the death of the cross. Let us attentively considerHim as He approaches the garden with His eleven sorrowfuldisciples.WithwhatasadcountenancedoestheSaviorenteritspeacefulenclosure,amidthegloomofthateventfulnight!NeverbeforehadHeapproachedthatgarden-gatewithaheartsofullofsorrow.

'ThenJesusbroughtthemtoanolivegrovecalledGethsemane,and he said, Sit here while I go on ahead to pray.' Howinteresting,momentous, and solemn the period! The hour hascomewhenourblessedSuretyvoluntarilysuffersforus;butoh,whocandescribethatdreadfulagonyofsoulwhichHeendureswhen the Lord lays on Him the iniquity of it is all! Oh, thehorrors of that hour, when Jesus, our Surety, appeared at thebarofDivineJustice, andpaid thepenalty forus sinners, thatwe Might escape! Oh, sacred night, from whose bosom thebrightestmorning-starofhopeandconsolationhas risenuponus,althoughwithablood-redlight!'

THE SAVIOR'S AGONY. Leaving eight of His disciples at theentranceofthegarden,ChristtakeswithHimPeter,James,andJohn,ashortdistancefromtherest,andbeginstobeexceedingsorrowfulandsad,evenuntodeath. 'ThenJesusbrought themtoanolivegrovecalledGethsemane,andhesaid,SitherewhileIgoonaheadtopray.'ThestormofdivinewrathisnowreadytobreakonHim.AllatonceHissoul iscrushedwithgrief to thepointofdeath.Heisseizedwithanindescribableanguishwhichoverwhelms Him. Though a man of sorrows, and acquaintedwithgrief,HehadneverbeforeexperiencedsuchsorrowasthatwhichnowpressesHim to the ground,with strongcryingandtearsuntoHimthatwasabletosaveHimfromdeath.Thewords

of Jeremiah are now accomplished, in the suffering Savior-'Lord, see my anguish! My heart is broken and my souldespairs.... My groans are many, and my heart is faint.'Withdrawing about a stone's throw from His three favoreddisciples,Hefirstkneelsdown,andthenfallsonHisfaceontheground, and, in His deep distress, pours forth His earnestsupplications to His Heavenly Father: 'My Father! If this cupcannotbetakenawayuntilIdrinkit,Yourwillbedone.'Risingup from prayer, He goes with fainting footsteps to His threedisciples, that He might perhaps find some sympathy in Hisunspeakable anguish; when, strange to say, He finds themsleeping. 'And He came unto the disciples, and found themasleep.'Itissurprising,indeed,thatthedisciplesshouldbesunkin deep sleep when their divine Lord and Savior is enduringsuch anguish of soul for their sakes- whenHe is preparing toleavethem-whenHeisonlyastepfromthecross.ThesufferingSavior first gently reproves them,andafterwardsexcuses theirweakness.'What!couldyounotwatchwithmeonehour?Watchandpraythatyouenternotintotemptation;thespiritindeediswilling,butthefleshisweak.'HowwonderfulthecompassionofChrist to weak humanity! How long He bears with theinfirmitiesofHisfollowers,whileHeseekstopromotetheirbestinterests.

LeavingHis three disciples a second time,He again recedes afewpaces, fallsupon theground, andoffers theprayer- 'OmyFather,ifthiscupmaynotpassawayfromme,unlessIdrinkit,Yourwill bedone.'Oh,what a prayer is this! So vehement, soimportunate,manifestingintheSaviorsuchperfectrelianceonthewillofheaven.Rising fromthegroundthesecondtuneHegoes toHis disciples, and again finds themoverwhelmedwithsleep, 'sleeping for sorrow.' A third time, He withdraws intosolitude, falls upon the ground, and in the extreme anguish ofHis soul, offers the same earnest prayer- 'Omy Father, if thiscupmaynotpassaway frommeunless Idrink it,Yourwillbedone.'The stormof spiritual conflictwhichhadall alongbeenincreasing,nowbreaksinitsviolenceovertheSavior.Nowdoes

Hedrinkthebittercupofsorrowtoitsverydregs-nowdoesHeendurethewrathofGod-nowdoesHestrugglewiththepowersofdarkness.Listentothe,bittercomplaintsoftheSaviorinHisunspeakablesufferings forussinners: 'Theenemypursuesme,he crushesme to the ground; hemakesme dwell in darknesslike those long dead. So my spirit grows faint within me; myheartwithinmeisdismayed.'Oh,howintensearethesufferingsof our blessed Redeemer! His human nature is ready to sinkundertheanguishofHissoul.HisFather'ssmilingcountenanceis withdrawn from Him in these moments of darkness anddistress. No human arm supports the solitary Sufferer ofGethsemaneinthisdreadmidnighthour.

Amessengerfromtheskiesis,atlength,senttostrengthenHisexhaustedframe. 'AndthereappearedanangeluntoHimfromheaven, strengtheningHim.' How deep the humiliation of ourblessedLord,thatHeshouldreceivetheassistanceofanangel-acreature!HereweseeJesusmadealittlelowerthantheangelsfor the sufferings of death. The promise is now strikinglyfulfilled-'HeshallgiveHisangelschargeoverYou,tokeepYouinallYourways.TheyshallbearYouupintheirhands,lestYoudashYourfootagainstastone'

But the conflict is not yet ended. Another dreadful wave ofsorrowcomesovertheRedeemer'ssoul,causingHimtosinkinanindescribableagonytothegroundtoprayyetmoreearnestly-toweepinblood.Itisnowthedarkestandmostpainfulpartoftheconflict.TheprophecyofthePsalmistisnowaccomplished,'Thesorrowsofdeathcompassedme,andthefloodsofungodlymenmademeafraid.Thesorrowsofhellcompassedmeabout;deathitself staredme in the face. Inmydistress I calledupontheLord, and crieduntomyGod.'WhilepouringoutHis soulbefore His Heavenly Father, in that earnest, thrice-utteredprayer,HeisinamysteriousAGONY-anagonysogreat,andsopiercing,thatabloodysweatbreaksfromHissacredbody,andflowsdowninstreams,moisteningthegroundonwhichHehadfallen. 'Andbeing in anagony,Heprayedmore earnestly: and

Hissweatwasasitweregreatdropsofbloodfallingdowntotheground.' That remarkable prediction is now fulfilled in theprostrated and agonizing Savior. 'O my God, I cry in thedaytime,butYouhearnot;andinthenightseason,andamnotsilent. Iampouredout likewater,andallmybonesareoutofjoint;myheartislikewax:itismeltedwithinme.'

OnHispalebrowthedropsarelargeandred.Asvictim'sbloodatvotivealtarshedHishandsareclasped,HiseyesareraisedinprayerAlas,andistherestrifeHecannotbear,Whocalmedthetempest,andwhoraisedthedead?Thereis!thereis!fornowthepowersofhellArestrugglingforthemastery-'tisisthehourWhendeathexertshislastpermittedpower,Whenthedreadweightofsin,sinceAdamfell,IsvisitedonHimwhodeignedtodwellAmanwithmen,thatHemightbearthestrokeOfwrathdivine,andbreakthecaptive'syoke.Butoh,ofthatdreadstrife,whatwordscantell?Those,onlythosewhichbroke,withmanyagroan,FromHisfullheart-"OFather,takeawayThecupofvengeanceImustdrinktoday-Yet,Father,notMywill,butYours,bedone!"

Oh,howstrongwerethecries,andhowbitterthetearsofJesusinthathour,whenGodtheFatherpoureduponHimafloodofwrath-whentheswordofdivinejusticepiercedHisinmostsoul-whenthebloodgushedfromeveryporeofHissacredbody!Heis exhausted with crying for deliverance, while the waves ofsorrow, the waters of affliction, break over Him; while thearrows of the Almighty are within Him, the poison whereofdrinksupHisSpirit,whiletheterrorsofGodsetthemselvesinarrayagainstHim.HerewebeholdtheSonofGodfallenontheground,andwithintensebitternessofspirit,complainingofHisgreat agony, and earnestly crying to His Heavenly Father fordeliverance.HowheavytheburdenthatliesuponHisshoulders!

The ponderous burden of the guilt ofmillions.How bitter areHiscomplaints,andwithwhata fullheartdoesHepour themoutbeforetheLord!InHimaretrulyaccomplishedthewordsofthe Psalmist- 'I have come into deepwaters, where the floodsoverflowme. I amwearyofmy crying;my throat is dried;myeyesfailwhileIwaitformyGod.'

Howtranquildoesallnatureseemtobe,while theLordof theuniverse thuswrithes in agony, andweeps in blood! There is,perhaps,scarcelyasoundtobeheard,savethegentlemurmursof the Kedron, or the stirring of the passing breeze, or therustling of the spreading olive trees.Midnight'smantle coverstheland,andallaroundissweetandtranquil,whileinthedeepanddarkrecessesofGethsemane,apiercingagony is crushingthe heart of the Man of sorrows, and an angel is wiping thebloodysweatfromHisachingbrow.

'Tismidnight;andonOlivet'sbrowTheStarisdimmedthatlatelyshone;'Tismidnight,inthegarden,now,ThesufferingSaviorpraysalone.'Tismidnight;andfromallremoved,TheSaviorwrestlesalone,withfears;EventhatdisciplewhomHelovedHeedsnotHisMaster'sgriefandtears.'Tismidnight;andforothers'guiltTheManofsorrowsweepsinblood;Yethethathasinanguishknelt,IsnotforsakenbyHisGod.'Tismidnight;andfrometherplainsIsbornethesongthatangelsknow;UnheardbymortalsarethestrainsThatsweetlysoothetheSavior'swoe.

Oh,mySavior,howextrememusthavebeenYoursufferingsatthat solemn and eventfulmoment, when Your sweatwas as itwere great drops of blood falling on the hallowed ground of

Gethsemane! What fear, what amazement, what horror, thenseizeduponYourholy soul!Whoever suffered thus?Oh,onceafflictedRedeemer,nonecancomprehendthenatureorseverityof Your sufferings in the garden! None can tell low great wasthat spiritual conflictwhich forced Your life's blood fromYou.Wemustleavethemysteryofthatappallingsceneforeternitytounfoldinallitsgreatness,andinallitsgloriousresults.

Let us often repair to Gethsemane, and witness that mostsolemn scene, when, on the ground and amid the gloom ofmidnight, our blessed Savior offered, 'with strong crying andtears,'thatthrice-utteredprayer,'OmyFather,ifitbepossible,letthiscuppassfromme;nevertheless,notasIwill,butasYouwill.'With theeyeof faith letuscontemplateourRedeemerasHe lay agonizing for us in that fearful hour, the hour and thepower of darkness, when the sorrows of death encompassedHim,andwhenthepainsofhellgotholduponHim,whenHewas red in His apparel, and His garments were like him thattreadsinthewine-press;whenHewastreadingthewine-pressofGod'swrathalone.

'Butnow,seewhereHeliesOnthecoldground,exposedtothick,darkair,Andallthefuryofthemaddeningskies!SeehoweachnerveandveinTremblesandthrobswithtorture!howHiseyesStartfromtheirseatwithanguishanddespair!WhatdropsofsanguinesweatrolldownagainFromHisfairlimbs!"OFather,Oremove,Ifpossible,thiscup,yetnotMywill,ButYourshedone!"Oagonizinglove!'

But at length the affecting scene of the Savior'smighty agonydraws to a close. The thrice-uttered prayer is offered to HisHeavenly Father, and though the bitter cup does not passHislips, yet He is strengthened to drink it. 'He shall drink of thebrookinthewaythereforeshallHeliftupthehead.'Heknewit

wasforthispurposeHehadcomeintotheworld,thatHemightsuffer'manythings,'andastheLambofGod,atoneforoursins.'ForthiscauseIcameuntothishour.'AndforthejoysetbeforeHim,HepatientlyenduresallHissufferings.AmidHisbitterestcomplaints are still heard these words of cheerful resignation;'Father,notmywill,butYoursbedone.'ThethirdtimeHerisesfrom the ground, nowmoistened with His blood, goes to Hisdisciples,andsays to them, 'Areyoustill sleepingand resting?Look,thehourisnear,andtheSonofManisbetrayedintothehandsofsinners.Rise,letusgo!Herecomesmybetrayer!'

THE SAVIOR'S BETRAYAL. The eventful hour of Christ'sbetrayal has come. In the deep of night a multitude of men,armed with swords, staves, and spears, are sent to seize theagonizingSavior.HavingdescendedMountMoriah,andcrossedtheKedron,their lanternsandtorchesareseenglisteringamidthe gloomy bushes of the valley, as they approach the garden,nowconsecratedbythesufferingsoftheHolyandtheJustOne.CominguptothepaleandbleedingSavior,thetraitorgivestheappointedsignforHisapprehension. 'Judas,areyoubetrayingtheSonofManwithakiss?'fallsfromthelipsofthemeekandlowly Jesus. And now as the band of soldiers approach Him,Jesussaid,Whomdoyouseek?Theysaid,JesusofNazareth.Hesaid,IamHe.Butnosoonerarethesewordsutteredthanthatwholemurderousbandfalltothegroundlikedeadmen.WhatastrikingexhibitionofdivinepowerintheManofNazareth!ArayofHisdivinityshinesforth,andHisenemiesstaggerandfalltothe ground, as if struck by a thunderbolt. This shows that thesufferingsofChristwerevoluntary;forintheverymidstofHisgreatest distress, while His friends were preparing to desertHim, and flee for their own safety, He could call to His aidlegionsofholyangels,andcrushHisenemiesbyasingleblow.'Don'tyouknowthatIcannowpraytomyFather,andHeshallpresently give me more than twelve legions of angels?' 'ThechariotsofGodaretwentythousand,eventhousandsofangels:theLordisamongthem,asinSinai,intheholyplace.'WithoutHisownconsent,Christcouldnothavebeendeliveredintothe

handsofsinners.'ButhowthenshalltheScripturesbefulfilled,thatthusitmustbe?'HowshallthesalvationofalostworldbeaccomplishedunlesstheLambofGodbleedsanddies?

The holy and the innocent Jesus is at length seized,while thedisciples forsake Him and flee? The remarkable prediction ofZechariah is now accomplished- 'Awake, O sword, againstmyshepherd, themanwhoismypartner, says theLordAlmighty.Strikedowntheshepherd,andthesheepwillbescattered...'Hewho'wasnotrebellious,neitherturnedawayback,'isboundandhurried away through the streets of Jerusalem to the house ofthehighpriest,andtothejudgmenthall, theretobescourged,and mocked, and condemned to the ignominious andexcruciating death of the cross. The tragic scene of HiscrucifixiononCalvarywillbe thethemeof the followingessay.In themeantime, let us reflect on some of the important andsacred lessons, which the sufferings of Jesus in the gardenimpartforouredificationandconsolationinthedivinelife,untilwe are prepared to enter upon those scenes of seraphic joy inheaven-untilwe therebehold, in themidst of the throne, 'theLamb that had been slain,' the once suffering Man ofGethsemaneandCalvary-untilwe there learn thenewsongofMoses and the Lamb, and forever celebrate the wonders ofredeeming love, and themysterywhich has been hidden fromagesandfromgenerations.

THECAUSEOFTHESAVIOR'SAGONY.Herewemayinquire,What was the procuring cause of our Lord's agony inGethsemane?Why was He so deeply afflicted there?Why didsuchinexpressibleagonyseizeuponHim?WhydidthoselargedropsofbloodflowfromHissacredbody?WhywasHishumannaturethussmittenbythepenal firesofHeaven'swrath?ThatgriefwhichHeborecouldnothavebeenforthesinsofHisownsoul; forHewas holy, harmless, and undefiled, separate fromsinners. He did no sin, neither was any deceit found in Hismouth.Itcouldnothavearisefromthenaturalfearofdeath;fortherebeingnoinherentsininHisPerson,therecouldhavebeen

nostinginHisdeath,asinthecaseoffallenman.'Thestingofdeath is sin.' Did His deep distress arise from the fear ofenduring the painful death of the cross?No. Could the Saviorhave displayed less courage the multitudes of His faithfulfollowers, who have endured death in its most excruciatingforms, that theymustpass togloryand immortality, andwearthemartyr'scrown?Oh,no;itwasnotsuchfearthattookholdupontheSaviorinGethsemane'speacefulenclosureandthatledHimtopraysoearnestly for the removalof thecupofhorrorsHewasthentasting.

WhatthenwrungoutthosebittercomplaintsfromtheheartoftheManofsorrows,whichmeltedHisverysoul forheaviness?'Oh, my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me;nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.' It was our sins,imputedtoHim,thatcausedtheLordofglorythustoagonize.GodtheFathermadeHimtobesinforus,whoknewnosin;thatwemightbemadetherighteousnessofGodinHim.Yes,inthatterriblehour,whenJesuswas stretched in agony, thedreadfulweightofoursinswaslaiduponHimasoursuretyandatoningrepresentative.Hethenborethestrokeofdivinewrath,which,ifHehadnotreceived,must,havebeeninflicteduponussinnerstoalleternity.ThusHeenduredall thatweightofgrief foroursakes. He was made sorrowful for us, that we might rejoiceforever in the heavenly mansions. He suffered thoseindescribablepainsforus,thatnight,bepermittedtoenterthatlandrespectingwhichitissaid,'Neithershalltherebeanymorepain,fortheformerthingsarepassedaway.'Hewasbruisedforus, that thepreciousbalmof the gospel ofHis gracemight bepoured intoourwounds- thatallourmoralmaladiesmightbehealed-andthateternalhealth,strength,beauty,andexcellencymightbeours,whenmortalityisswallowedupoflife.

Oh, letuseverkeep thisglorious, soul-entrancing truthbeforeoureyes-thatourdivineRedeemersufferedinGethsemaneandon Calvary, as the Mediator of a lost world, as our satisfyingSubstitute,whohasborneourgrief's, andcarriedour sorrows,

andonwhomtheLordhaslaidtheiniquityofusall!Inthislightit will be always delightful for us to view the solemn scene ofGethsemane; while the sacred lessons we learn from it willpromoteourspiritualandeternalwell-being.Wewillthen,evenwhileonearth,learnmuchofthedeepandsacredmysteriesofEmmanuel'sagony.Wewill thenseeaglorybeamingamidthegloomofthatdreadnighttocheertheChristianpilgrimonlife'swearyway;toscatterthedarknessofthetombandtofillheavenwithrapturousjoyandunceasingpraise.

THE EVIL OF SIN DEMONSTRATED FROM THE SAVIOR'SAGONY.From the sufferings of Jesus inGethsemane,wemaysee the great evil of sin, and the fearfulness being ourselvescompelled to bear the punishment due to our transgressionsthrough all eternity. Ah! was it sin that caused suchinexpressible agony in the Savior's human soul, when as ourSubstituteHeboreourguilt,andmadeatonementforoursins?Did our sins bring on Him all that 'indignation and wrath,tribulationandanguish,whichcausedHishearttomeltlikewaxinthemidstofHisaffections,forcingfromHimthatmysteriousbloodysweat,andconstrainingHimtoprayyetmoreearnestly?WhatanevilthenmustthatbewhichcausedaGodoflovethustobruiseHisonlybegottenandwellbelovedSon!WhenChristassumed our guilt, and undertook to pay the penalty of aviolated law,GodtheFathercouldnotspareHim.Hemustbeencompassed with grief, and overwhelmed with sorrow; theswordofdivinejusticemustawakeagainstHim,andsmiteHim;Hemustbebroughttothedustofdeath,eventhedeathofthecross. If we had not sinned, we would never have need of aSavior 'being in an agony.' Oh, that we could grieve from ourinmost soul for thosesinswhichcausedourblessedRedeemertoagonize in the garden! Let usmourn over these sinswith agodlysorrow,whileat the same timeweadmire theboundlesscompassionofthesufferingJesusforourguiltysouls;whileweadoreHisnameforcondescending,inHisincomparablelove,tosufferinourroomandstead.

Hereasolemnquestionarises, If theSonofGod thussufferedwhenHeundertook to reconcileanapostateworld tooffendedHeaven,howshall thosewho finally reject theonlySavior- theonly sacrifice for sin- the great salvation- stand before a holyand righteous God to answer for their numberless andaggravatedtransgressions?Whensuchpeopleopentheireyesinthe next world, a world of retribution; what fearfulness, andanguish, and despair will seize upon their lost spirits throughthatterriblenightof'theblacknessofdarkness'reservedforthefinallyimpenitent!Oh,howinsupportablemustbetheweightofthewrathofGod,whoisaconsumingfiretoalltheworkersofiniquity! It is truly a fearful thing to fall into thehands of thelivingGod.Butoh,onceagonizingSavior, letusnotdespairofYourpardoningmercy,while thedoorof life isyetopen,whileYouareyetcallingtous in tonesofunutterablecompassiontocometoYou,thatwemayhavelife;andwhilewerememberthatthose sufferings of Yours in Gethsemane were endured forsinners, even the vilest of the vile. Oh, grant us an interest inYourvicarioussacrifice.Maywefeelthattheoppressiveburdenofourguilthasbeenremovedfromourshoulders,andbornebyYou, Oh bleeding Lamb of God. May those sweet words nowsoundinourearslikeenrapturingmusicfromthesties- 'Thereis, therefore,nownocondemnation to thosewhoare inChristJesus.' Sinful and unworthy as we are, still may we repair atonce toYouasouronlyhiding-place,ouronlyrefugefromthestormofdivinevengeance,fromthewrathtocome.Oh,hideusin Gethsemane, until the voyage of life is ended, until everystorm is past, until every wave is stilled, until we reach thoseblissfulshores,those'eververdantvalesandsunnyhills,'wheresinshallnomoreentertodefile;wherepainshallbenolongerexperienced;whereweshallobtainjoyandgladness;andwheresorrowandsighingshallforeverfleeaway!

'Oppressedwithgrief,overwhelmedwithfear,WherecanIfindarefugenear?DearSavior,untoYouIflee,

Oh!hidemeinGethsemane.Mysinsassumeanawfulform;AroundIviewtherisingstorm;Ifly,myonlyLord,toThee,Oh!hidemeinGethsemane.InthatsweetgardenYoudidbearOfguiltandpainmyawfulshare;YourbleedingformmethinksIseeExtendedinGethsemane.Oh!fillmyheartwithferventlove;ToYou,leteachaffectionmove;Fromsinpreservemeeverfree,WhileshelteredinGethsemane.'

PRAYER THE GRAND SOURCE OF CONSOLATION INTEMPTATIONANDAFFLICTION.Oneof themost importanttruths the sufferings of Christ teaches us is, that prayer is thegrandsourceofconsolationtothechildrenofGodinseasonsoftemptation and affliction. 'Who among you afflicted? let himpray.'And the greaterour sorrowsandour conflicts, themoreearnestandimportunateshouldbeoursupplications.Whenourheartisoverwhelmedandinperplexity,letusdrawneartoGod,who, inHissuper-aboundingmercyhassaid: 'Calluponme inthedayof trouble:Iwilldeliveryou,andyoushallglorifyme.'Whenwe see that the darkest clouds are rising- that a furiousstormofafflictionis impending- letus, likeourblessedSavior,gotoHimwhoisabletosaveoursoulsfromdeath,andsayinthe languageof faith: 'Oh,myFather-myHeavenlyFather- letthis bitter cup of sorrow, this heavy trial, pass from me;nevertheless, not my will, but Yours, be done.' Let us gorepeatedlytoourHeavenlyFather inprayerforrelief fromouroppressiveburdens,orsupportunderthem.

OurSaviorprayedthreetimesmostearnestlybeforetheburdenonHissoulwasmadelighter.ThemoreHissorrowsincreased,themoreearnestlyHeprayed.His perseverance in prayerwasindefatigable. Paul prayed three times before he received the

answer:'Mygraceissufficientforyou;formystrengthismadeperfect inweakness.' Let us then follow the example of ChristandHis faithful servants, and never give up prayer until Godremoves our cup of sorrow, or gives us grace and strength toacceptitwithperfectcomposure.

AndletusseethatinallthingsweresignourselvestothewillofGod. Thus did Jesus. 'Though He was a Son, yet learned HeobediencebythethingswhichHesuffered.'Thenmaywe lookupwithconfidence toHim,whohassufferedforus,andmadeourburdenlight indeed,andsay 'Whenthecloudsofadversitydarkenmyprospects,andthenightofsorrowobscuresmyway,then, O blessed Jesus, support my fainting steps, cheer mydroopingsoulwithYourcelestialpromises,andgivemestrengthandcourageequaltomyday.'

Inallourafflictionsandtrials-andinthisworldweshallhavemanytribulations-maywebeenabledtosay,aftertheexampleofourLordandSavior-'Notmywill,butYours,bedone.'MyGodandFather,whileIstrayFarfrommyhome,onlife'sroughway,Oh,teachmefromthehearttosay,"Yourwillbedone!"IfYoushouldcallmetoresignWhat,mostIprize;'twasnevermine;IonlyyieldYouwhatwasYours;"Yourwillbedone!"Renewmywillfromdaytoday,BlenditwithYours,andtakeawayAllthatnowmakesithardtosay,"Yourwillbedone!"Then,whenonearthIbreathenomoreTheprayer,oftenmixedwithtearsbefore,I'llsinguponahappiershore,"Yourwillbedone!"

Thoughthebitterestcupofhumanwoeshouldbeput intoour

hands by our Heavenly Father, yet may we receive it withcomposure, and say, in imitation of the example of the Son ofGod,ourSavior,'ThecupwhichmyFatherhasgivenme,shallInot drink it?' If Christians were to be always in such a happyframe of mind in seasons of adversity, how much morecomposedwould they be even in thisworld of temptation andtribulation- this landofdarkness, andof the shadowofdeath!Feeling assured that all thingswereworking together for theirgood, they would even rejoice amid all their tribulations,knowing that tribulation works patience; and patience,experience; and experience, hope. In the gloomiest hour ofearthly trial, they would discern beyond the storms of life theglorioussunshineofeternal day;while, at the same time, theywould feel that every wave of sorrow and affliction was onlybearingthemnearerthepeacefulandhappyshore.

Let the afflicted believer be inspired with consolation from aconsiderationofthebrevityofhistrials,andtheeternalweightofglorywhichistosucceedlife'smomentaryills.ThoughJesusenduredsomuchsuffering,yettheconflictwassoonover:andnowHewhowasoncestretched in thegardenofGethsemane-trembling in every limb, and bleeding from every pore- isexalted to the throne of the universe in yonder heavens, andreignssupremeLordofall.Hisstrugglewithhuman infirmity-withsin-withthepowersofdarkness,isoverforever!Soitwillshortlybewithyou,Hissincerefollower;andtheendwillbeasglorious- for thesameglory that theFatherhasgiven theSon,shallbegivenbyChrist toall thosewhoenter the gates of thecelestialcity.

Your affliction, besides being light- especially in comparisonwith the sufferings of Jesus- is also momentary. The cup ofeternal salvation is just ready to be given you. The last roughwave shall soon bear you safely home to the desired haven ofimmortal felicity- to the sunny shores of Emmanuel's land- totheParadiseofGod,where the song is continually sungof theLambthatwasslain,andwherehearts,thatwereoncecrushed

withanguishonearth, shall overflowwith joy through endlessages;forGodshalltherewipeawaythelasttearfromeveryeye.Oh, then, how delightful will it be to think of the sorrows ofearth's pilgrimage, while crowned with all the bliss of theheavenlyhome!Thenwithouronceagonizing,butnowexaltedandglorifiedRedeemer,weshallwalkthegoldenstreetsoftheNewJerusalem,robedingarmentsofglory,andforeverenjoyallthatfelicitywhichthemind,inthisimperfectstate,utterlyfailstocomprehend.

THE LOVEOF THE SAVIORMANIFESTED INHIS AGONY.TheagonyofJesusinGethsemaneaffordsusanevidenceofthemost amazing love- a tokenof the greatest benevolence to ourguilty race.Herewe have one of the brightest displays of thatsupreme, unutterable mercy which constrained the onlybegottenSonofGod to leave thebosomof theFather and thejoys of heaven, that He might bear the stroke of divinevengeancedue toman for sin,and ransomus from the fearfulhaunts of eternal darkness andwoe.Here is grace- aboundinggrace-theexceedingrichesofgrace-theunsearchablerichesofChrist.TheloveofJesusinthussufferingforsinful,erringman,is a theme so mighty, so astonishing, so mysterious, that thehighestintelligencesinthecelestialworldfailtomeasureitsvastdimensions,thoughtheyarecontinuallystudyingitwithintensethought. It is a love so amazing, and so glorious in itsmanifestationsandinitsresults,thatitwill fillallheavenwithnewsongsofpraisethroughtheagesofeternity.Yes,webelievethataftermillionsofagesshallhavepassed,theremembranceoftheunparalleledloveoftheSonofGod,insubmittingtoHislastsufferings in the garden, and on the cross, will call forth, ifpossible, even sweeter songs than were heard on the goldenplainsofheaven,whenthewholecompanyoftheredeemedfirststruck'theirharps,andsang:WorthyistheLambthatwasslainto receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, andhonor,andglory,andblessing.'

As the saints inheavenwillbecontinuallyadvancing indivine

knowledge, theywill be better able, after the lapse of somanyagesofblissfulstudy,tocomprehendthevastnessoftheloveofa once agonizing Redeemer- a love which human languageentirelyfailstounfoldinallitslength,andbreadth,anddepth,and height.Whilemusing on thiswondrous theme, it extendsbeforeuslikeaboundlessandunfathomableocean-anoceaninwhich the mind even of the loftiest seraph is lost in wonder,delight,andadmiration.'Whatdepthofsovereignlove,Whatbreadthbeforemelies!Itsheightisheavenabove,Itslengthexceedstheskies.Anoceandeepandwide,Whereangelmindsarelost,Anever-swellingtide,Refreshingeverycoast.'

It is, then, a love immeasurable, eternal, stronger than death,whichleadsChristtothegardenofGethsemane,theretoendureHismysteriousagony,andtomakeHissoulanofferingforsin.Oh, the amazing grace of ourLord JesusChrist! As none everenduredsuchunspeakableanguishofsoulasthedivineSuffererofGethsemane,sononeevermanifestedsuchincomprehensiblelove.Herewewouldpause,andexclaim:'Olovedivine,howdoour hearts expand at the contemplation of Your beauty! Howblissfulitistoescapefromaselfishworldtomeditateonyou,tosunourselvesinyourlight,andtoknowthatwearereposingonyour bosom. What a happiness is this- what a foretaste ofheaven in the house of our pilgrimage! O love, stronger thandeath, andmore invincible than the grave, never depart fromourview!Oh,bethestartoshineuponusdayandnight;andthecolderthewindofaselflovingworldblowsuponusduringoursojournherebelow,themorebrightlydoyoudisplaytotheeyesofourspiritsthegraciousradianceofyourheavenlybeauty!

Now,dowenotdesiretoloveChristsupremely,whoissomuchfairer than the children of men, and who has manifested the

highestbenevolenceandcompassiontous?Shallweanylongerplace our holiest affections on created and perishing objects,withholdingthemfromHimwho isaltogether lovely?Shallweany longer despise so compassionate a Redeemer? In theexerciseofgenuinefaith,letusforthwithrepairtoGethsemane,and beholdHimbowed to the ground in agony, struggling forus,thatwemightbeelevatedfromourmisery,anddrinkforeverofthecupofsalvation.LookatHim,withdrawnashortdistancefromHis disciples, praying and agonizing in solitude.Oh,willwenotbemovedbythesightoftheblessedJesus,tremblingforus with mysterious fear- overwhelmed with indescribableanguish-Hissweatfallinglikeblood-dropsontheground?

ThisisthegloriousOnewhosesufferingsandwhosemajestyaresoexpresslydescribed in these remarkablewords; 'Who is thiswho comes from Edom, from the city of Bozrah, with hisclothingstainedred?Whoisthisinroyalrobes,marchinginthegreatness of his strength? "It is I, the Lord, announcing yoursalvation!ItisI,theLord,whoismightytosave!"Whyareyourclothessored,asifyouhavebeentreadingoutgrapes?"Ihavetroddenthewinepressalone;noonewastheretohelpme.InmyangerIhavetrampledmyenemiesasiftheyweregrapes.InmyfuryIhavetrampledmyfoes. It is theirblood thathasstainedmyclothes.Forthetimehascomeformetoavengemypeople,to ransom them from their oppressors. I looked, but no onecame tohelpmypeople. Iwas amazedandappalled atwhat Isaw. So I executed vengeance alone; unaided, I passed downjudgment.'

WillnotthesorrowswhichChristenduredforoursakesinspireuswithanearnest lovetoHim,witha livingconfidence inHisvicarious mediation, with a humble reliance on the infinitemeritsofHisatoningsacrifice?HearHimaskfromthedepthofHis soul,which, amid the appalling scene ofGethsemane,wasexceeding sorrowful, evenuntodeath: 'Is itnothing to you, allyouwhopassby?behold,andseeifthereisanysorrowlikemysorrow,whichisdoneuntome,withwhichtheLordhasafflicted

meinthedayofHisfierceanger.'Oh,then,letuslovetheSaviorwithallourhearts.

BlessedJesus,maywe rememberYou in the various scenes ofYour divine pilgrimage, when You were engaged inaccomplishing thework of redemption- in healing the sick, inimpartingsighttotheblind,ingivingfeettothelame,instillingthetempest,inraisingthedead;butinanespecialmannermaywethinkofYouinthatlast,eventfulnight,whenYoursoulwasexceedingsorrowful,whenthesinsofamultitudewhichnomancannumberpressedYoutothegroundinagony,andwhenthereappeared an angel unto You from heaven, strengthening Yourexhaustedframe.Oh,maywerememberYouinawaythatwillbringglorytoGod,andpeacetooursouls.Mayourfaithbe inlively exercise,whileourhearts overflowwith love toYou, ourgreat and glorious Redeemer, whose deepest anguish hasprocuredforusthemostrapturousjoy.Mayallthatiswithinusbe stirredup tomagnifyYourholyname for such awonderfulmanifestationofdivinegrace.Oh,mayweseeYouastheLambof God, our sacrifice, wounded and bruised for ourtransgressions,sufferingmorethanthemindcanconceive,thatwemight be at rest and enjoy the smiles of a reconciled Godthroughalltheagesofimmortality.

How wonderful Your compassion, how strong Your love, howconstantYour faithfulness to the children ofmen!Oh, look inpity upon us pilgrims journeying through a land of darkness,temptation,andsorrow.Oh,beourguidethroughallthevaryingscenesof life-oursupport indeath-ourbliss througheternity.Enfold us in the arms of Your love; impart to us Your peace;dwellinourheartsbyfaith;andguideusinthewaytoheavenlyglory.Maywebeenabledcheerfully to takeupourcrossdaily,and follow You continually, knowing that though we may becalledtopassthroughfireandwater,yetYouwillatlengthbringus out into a wealthy place, even to the heaven of heavens.Subdue the power of sin in our souls, and make us Yours intruth and sincerity. On You may we be enabled to roll the

burdenofoursin;forYouonlycanbearit.Oh,maywefeelthesweet, transforming influence ofYourblessedSpirit filling oursoulswithsacredlove,andpeace,andjoy.

MaythesolemnsceneofYoursufferingsinGethsemanemakeadeepandabidingimpressiononourhearts,andcauseustoloveYoumore,andserveYoubetter thanwehaveeverdone.Whatgratitude do we owe You, our suffering Savior, for what Youhaveperformed inour roomandstead!BlessedbeYournameforbearing thewrathofoffendedHeaven forus- forbecomingobedient to those bitter agonies, and that painful, accurseddeath, that wemight enjoy an eternity of bliss in the celestialParadise.Mayweever trust inYou; rejoice inYourname;andmagnify Your love. May You be the glory and the joy of ourhearts throughtime;and inyonderrealmsof lightandfelicity,whereYouareeverpresent,andwheresaintsandangelsdwell,mayweenjoyYoursociety,andwiththechoirsoftheheavenlyhost,celebrateYourpraisethroughtheSabbathofeternity.

Let the disciple of the Savior, in his devoutmeditations, oftenendeavortobringthesolemnsceneofGethsemanehometohisheart.Andoh,whilewemuseonthemysteriousagonyofJesus,mayour soulsbe touchedwith that godly sorrowwhichworksrepentance to salvation not to be repented of. Let us prayearnestlyforclearerevidencesofaninterestinthesufferingsoftheSavior,andintheatonementwhichHehasmade.

While,wereflectonHisagonyinthegarden,letuslearntobearup patiently under our own brief trials. How little are theafflictions of our earthly pilgrimage compared with thoseenduredbyHim,who,throughallHislifeonearth,wasaManof sorrows and acquainted with grief- whose visage was somarredmorethananyman,andHisformmorethanthesonsofmen!ByHissufferingsChristhassweetenedthecupofhumanwoe, and smoothed the path of affliction. And every Christianshould be ready to exclaim, as he traces the footsteps of theSaviorfromGethsemanetoCalvary-'Blessedareyoutous,you

rough,toilsomepathwaythroughthedust!ThefootstepsoftheSon of God have distinguished you; you have beenmoistenedwithHisblood.CanyouconductuselsewherethantoHim?Oh!with silent resignation,with steadfast,manly firmness,willwepursue you, so long as our Father commands.We know, fromthe example of our Redeemer, how you end; what a victoryawaitsthefaithfuloneswhofollowtheSonofGod.'

The trials of earth will not harm us, for they are ordered byinfinite love, and designed to sanctify and prepare us for thepure,andholy,andblissfulemploymentsofheaven.Deathitselfwill now be our unspeakable gain, since our Savior by hissufferings has dispelled its gloom, and from the swellings ofJordan opened a pathway to the glory of the celestial Canaan.Oncemore,asyouturntoGethsemane-'BringthethrillingsceneHometoyourinmostsoul-theSufferer'scry,"Father,ifitbepossible,thiscupmayYouTakeaway-Yetnotmywill,butYours."Thesleepingfriendswhocouldnotwatchonehour,Thetorch,theflashingsword,thetraitor'skiss,Theastonishedangel,withthetearofHeavenUponHischeek,stillstrivingtoassuageThosefearfulpangsthatbowedtheSonofGodLikeabruisedreed.YouwhohaspowertolookThusatGethsemane,bestill!bestill!Whatareyourinsect-woes,comparedtoHisWhoagonizesthere?CountyourbriefpainsAsthedustatomonlife'schariot-wheels,AndinaSavior'sgriefforgetthemall.'

THECRUCIFIXION

WhenwithdeepagonyHisheartwasracked,

NotforHimselfthetear-dropdewedHischeek,ForthemHewept,forthemtoHeavenHeprayed,Hispersecutors-"Father,pardonthem;Theyknownotwhattheydo."

"When they came to the place called Calvary, there theycrucified him, along with the criminals--one on his right, theotheronhisleft."Luke23:33

"MyGod,myGod,whyhaveyouforsakenme?Whyareyousofar from saving me, so far from the words of my groaning?"Psalm22:1

'Ah see! His bleeding arms are extended wide; He stretchesthemouttoeverysinner.Hishandspointtotheeastandwest;forHeshallgatherHischildrenfromtheendsoftheearth.Thetopof thecross isdirectedtowardthesky; farabovetheworldwill its effects extend. Its root is fixed in the earth; the crossbecomesawondrous tree, fromwhichwe reap the fruitof oureternalreconciliation.'-Krummacher

THESAVIORATHISCRUCIFIXION.

BeholdHimnowSuspendedonthecross!OnHispalebrowHangthecolddropsofdeath;througheverylimbThepiercingtorturerages;everynerveStretchedwithexcessofpain,tremblesconvulsed.Nowlookbeneath,andviewthesenselesscrowd;HowtheyderideHissufferings,howtheyshakeTheirheadscontemptuous,whilethebittertaunt,Morebitterthanthegalltheygave,insultsTheagonyofHimonwhomtheygaze.Buthark!Hespeaks,andthestillhoveringbreathWaftsHislastprayertoallapprovingHeaven'Forgivethem,fortheyknownotwhattheydo!'-C.P.Layard.

We are now to contemplate the most solemn scene everpresented to the view of man- the crucifixion of our Savior.What sight so impressive, affecting, and sacred as that of theSon of God in human nature, the Creator of the universe, theLord of life, suspended on the ignominious cross- hanging inagoniesanddeath!AndforwhomisHethusliftedupfromtheearth? For the righteous? for the noblest intelligences of theuniverse? Oh, no. For sinners- for a world of rebels are Hisbleedingarmsextendedontheaccursedtree.Oh,whatwonderofwonders is this!What infinite condescension!Whatmightylove!AstheChristianturnstoCalvary,whathallowedthoughtsarise inhismind!Whatvariousemotionsareawakenedwithinhim! What sorrow and joy, wonder and praise, alternatelyprevailinhisrenewedheart!Letusviewthismostsolemnscenewith the deepest reverence; andmay the holy Spirit bring thedivine truthswhich it displays, home to our soulswith power,enlighteningthemwiththesavingknowledgeofChristcrucified,and showing us by this greatmystery of godliness the path oflife– a life of immortal felicity, and joy, and glory, beyond theprecinctsofmortality.

THESAVIOR'STRIALANDCONDEMNATION.While turningour eyes from the sacred scenes of Gethsemane, in thatmomentous hourwhen the soul of the Saviorwaswrungwithanguish, and when His body was bathed in blood, we beholdHimhurriedawaybythebandofsoldiersfromthegarden,withweary,faintingfootsteps,re-crossingtheKedron,andconductedupMountMoriah.OnenteringthecityHeisfirstledtoAnnas,the ruler of the Sanhedrin. Annas sends Him. bound toCaiaphas,whowashighpriest that year. It is past the hour ofmidnight, but yet there isno repose for theSavior, thoughHegreatly needed it after enduring His terrible conflict in thegarden.ViewHimnow,whileyouthinkofthepainsHehasjustundergone in Gethsemane.What traces of sorrow do you stilldiscern.inthat'visagesomarred'bythestrokeofdivinejustice-by the weight of sin- by the breaking forth of a mysterious,

bloodysweat?HowweakandexhausteddoesHestillappear!

Oh,howlittledowethinkofthesufferingsofJesusinthatnightwhen,'withwickedhands,'Hewastakenandbroughtasalambto the slaughter!Letus viewHimasHe stands arraignedas acriminalbeforeCaiaphas.TherestandstheHolyOneofIsraeltobejudgedbysinners!ThereJesusstandsasourrepresentative,bearing our sins! There stands the Lamb without spot, to beslain to take awayour guilt! Falsewitnesses are sought by thechief priests and elders, and all the council of the Jews, tocondemnHimtodeath.ThepredictionsofthePsalmistarenowliterallyaccomplished.'Falsewitnessesroseup;theylaidtomycharge things that I knew not.' 'False witnesses are risen upagainst me, and such as breathe out cruelty.' Many falsewitnessescomeforward;yettheirtestimonydisagrees.AtlengthtwofalsewitnessescomeandtestifythatJesusaffirmedHewasabletodestroythetempleofGodandtorebuilditinthreedays.But even their testimony is conflicting. How meekly andpatiently does the Savior listen to all the false accusationsHisenemies and persecutors are bringing against Him! Nocontradictorystatements,nosevereinvectivesfallfromHislips.He remains silent amid the reproaches cast upon Him. Thewicked Caiaphas, who had already declared that Jesus shoulddie,at length riseswith indignation,andsays to themeekandinnocentSavior:'Well,aren'tyougoingtoanswerthesecharges?What do you have to say for yourself? But Jesus remainedsilent.'

Whatanoblepatternofsufferinginnocencedoweherebeholdin the Man Christ Jesus! Now are fulfilled the words of theprophetIsaiah,'Hewasoppressed,andHewasafflicted,yetHeopenednotHismouth:Heisbroughtasalambtotheslaughter,andasasheepbeforehershearers isdumb,soHeopenednotHis mouth.' But still the mockery of a trial, devoid of all theprinciples of justice goes on, until the crowning accusation isbroughtforward.InthelightedchamberofCaiaphas,wherethescribes and the elders were assembled, Jesus is accused of

blasphemy,andjudgedtobeguiltyofdeath.NowallmannerofinsultandindignationisheapeduponHissacredPersonbythemenwho holdHim. They derideHim; spit inHis face; buffetHim; smite Him with the palms of their bands; and havingblindfoldedHim,strikeHimontheface,andcrywithmaliciousmockery, 'Prophesyuntous,Christ,whohityou?'Hundredsofyears before it occurred, this very scene of insult and derisionwaspredictedbytheprophetIsaiah,inthoseremarkablewords:'The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious,neitherturnedawayback.Igavemybacktothesmiters,andmycheckstothosewhopluckedoffthehair;Ihidnotmyfacefromshameandspitting.'

O my soul, consider with what unruffled patience the Saviorbore Himself amid all the insults of that wicked examinationand trial, when the rulers of the Jews were thirsting for Hisinnocent blood, when Peter denied Him, and all the disciplesforsookHim!Wasthereeverbeforesuchanexampleofpatientsuffering?Oh, howpatientwas the blessed Jesus amid allHissufferings, until onCalvaryHe commendedHis spirit into thehands of His Father, and bowed His head in death! WhatsorrowsdidHeundergo!andwithwhatpatiencedidHesufferthem!Patient,whenJudasunworthilybetrayedHimwithakiss-patient,whenhurriedfromoneplacetoanother-patient,whenHerod and his men of war set him at nothing- patient, whenPilate so unrighteously condemned Him- patient, whenscourgedandcrownedwiththorns-patient,whenHiscrosswaslaiduponHim,andwhenHewasreviled,reproached,scoffedat,andeverywayabused.LordJesus,grantmepatienceafterthisexample,tobearYourholywillinallthings.Oh,Jesus,whonowsits at the right hand of God, to support all who suffer in arighteous way, be my advocate for grace, that in all mysufferingsImayfollowYourexample,and'runwithpatiencetheracethat issetbeforeme.'Letusalways looktoourSaviorforthenoblestexampleofpatienceinsuffering.

Butat lengththat lastsadandterriblenightof theSonofGod

wears away, and morning breaks. The sun rises and pours aflood of light upon the world, while with the Sun ofRighteousness it is still the hour and the power of darkness.Whataneventfulmorning!Whatamomentousday!Beforethesunwouldagainset,whatscenesweretooccuronCalvary!whata work was to be accomplished there! Scenes which the suncouldnotbehold;aworkwhichwillbecelebratedthroughages,countlessasthestarsofheaven,orthedustofearth!

Early in themorning,when the great Sanhedrin, or council ofthe Jews, assembled, Jesus was brought before their tribunal,andfalselyaccused,examined,condemned,bound,andhurriedaway to the judgment hall of Pilate, that the final sentence ofdeath might be pronounced upon Him. What disciple of theSavior can contemplate that most malicious and unjust trialwithoutfeelingsofheartfeltsorrow,asheseeshisdivineMastercruellyinsultedandbeatenbytheJewishrulersandtheRomansoldiers? Draw near and view the meek Man of Nazarethstandingbeforethoseferociousmen.SeehowvehementlyHeisaccusedofseditionbythe 'wholemultitude'thatfollowHimtothehallofPilate:seehowHeismockedbyHerod,andarrayedinagorgeousrobe,andsentagaintoPilate:andwhilePilateisabouttoreleaseHim,becausehecould findnothingworthyofdeathinHim,hearthe infuriatedmultitudevociferate, 'CrucifyHim,crucifyHim!''Notthisman,butBarabbas!'

TrulywasitprophesiedoftheenemiesoftheblessedRedeemer;'Theyswarmedaroundmelikebees;theyblazedagainstmelikea roaring flame.' Barabbas is released, while the innocent andholy Jesus is scourged by the Roman soldiers; and, at thecommandofPilate, delivered into thehandsof the Jews tobecrucified. 'So Pilate, anxious to please the crowd, releasedBarabbastothem.HeorderedJesusfloggedwithalead-tippedwhip, then turned him over to the Roman soldiers to crucifyhim.'Jesusisnowtakenuntothe'commonhall'bythesoldiers,strippedofHisgarments,andclothedinapurplerobe.Acrownof thorns is placeduponHishead, a reed inHishand; and in

derisionandscornHe issaluted, 'Hail,Kingof theJews!'Nowthe soldiers spit upon Him, smite Him on the head with thereed,andstrikeHimwiththeirhands.

BeholdHimnowwith the crownof thorns onHis head,whilethe soldiers with heavy blows drive those thorns into Histemples, which force the blood downHis cheeks. 'Then Jesuscameoutwearingthecrownofthornsandthepurplerobe.AndPilate said, "Here is theman!"Why does Pilate thus exclaim?Doesheexhibit theSavior inderision?Ordoeshe imaginethesight of His bleeding and disfigured form would excitecompassion in the bosom of His enemies, and lead to Hisrelease?Ifso,howgreatmusthavebeenhissurpriseonhearingthe chief priests and officers; when they saw theMan in thatpitiablecondition;exclaim,intheiranimosity,malice,andfury:'CrucifyHim!CrucifyHim!'

But here let us pause, and behold the Man, the Man ChristJesus, the Lamb of God standing before the infuriated Jews,wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe? His facestainedwithblood,andHiswholePersonbearingthemarksofcruelty. How astonishing the sight! Emmanuel, God in ournature, suffering by the hands of those whom He came toredeem-wearingthepiercingcrownofthorns,andbleedingforsinners!Hewhosethroneisintheheavens,andwhoisexaltedfaraboveallprincipality,andpower,andmight,anddominion,stoopingtosuchtorture-madesuchaspectacle'untotheworld,and to angels, and tomen!' This is certainly a sight which, ifseriously beheld, is calculated tomake the deepest impressiononourhearts.Oh, let us drawnear, andwith the eye of faith,beholdtheMan.BeholdthefaceofHim,whoisfairerthanthechildren of men, crimsoned with blood; see His sacred headbowed in agony amid the shouts of derision, and the cries of,'CrucifyHim!CrucifyHim!'LetuslooksteadilyandearnestlyonoursufferingSavior,untilHebecomesunspeakablyprecioustoour souls; until His love is abundantly shed abroad in ourhearts;untilintheblissfullightofheavenwebeholdHiminthe

midstofthethrone,astheLambthatwasslain,andjoinintheunending song of the church triumphant- a song sweeter thanangels sing- 'All praise to him who loves us and has freed usfromoursinsbysheddinghisbloodforus.HehasmadeushiskingdomandhispriestswhoservebeforeGodhisFather.Givetohimeverlastingglory!Herulesforeverandever!Amen!'

Thereisnosightsopurifyingandelevatingtothesouloperateduponbythegracious influencesof theHolySpirit, as thatofasufferingSaviorvoluntarily takinguponHimself theburdenofour guilt, and making atonement for our sins. May this sightneverfadefromourviewduringourpassagethroughlife;mayitrefreshoursoulsinthehourofdeath!Oh,whatheavenlypeaceflows down to the faithful beholders of theMan Christ Jesus,wearingthethornycrown,andthepurplerobe!'See!fromHishead,Hishands,Hisfeet,SorrowandloveflowmingleddownDideversuchloveandsorrowmeet,Orthornscomposesorichacrown?'

This isa sightwhichwill supportus in thehourof temptationand deep distress. Oh, tempest-tossed and grievously afflictedchildrenofGod,whomayhavebeenlongwalking indarkness,havingno light,we inviteyoutobehold theMan,bearingyouriniquities inHisownbody,His faceandHis garments stainedwithblood,thatyoumightbeclothedinthewhiterobesofHisrighteousness- that throughHisdivinebloodyoumightobtaineternalredemption, and enter the gates of theNew Jerusalemwith everlasting songsof joy, andwith never-fading crowns ofglory.Whensinoppresses,whenSatanaccuses,whenyourownconscience condemns, fix your eye of faith on a sufferingRedeemer. Behold the Man; and derive strength and couragefromthelook.Youcannotcomeintocondemnationnow,ifyouareasincerepenitent.Nomatterhowgreatoraggravatedyoursinsmaybe,thebloodwhichflowsbeneaththatcrownofthornsisall-sufficienttowashawayyourguilt.Itwasshedforthisverypurpose.Itisbloodofwondrousvirtue.Oh,then,cometoJesus;

washyourrobes,andmakethemwhiteinHisblood.TouchthehemofHispurplerobe,andvirtuewillcomeforthtohealyoursoul.ThenwithrapturewillyousingthroughalleternityoftheinfiniteefficacyofthatbloodbywhichyonhavebeenredeemedtoGod- thenwillyou foreverbehold theManofNazareth, theSonofGod,notinastateofdeephumiliationandsuffering,butcrowned with all that dividemajesty and glory which He hadwiththeFatherbeforetheworldwas.Oh,blessedsight!

Let those who have hitherto neglected or refused to look toJesus,nowbeholdtheMan.'BeholdtheLambofGod,whotakesawaythesinoftheworld!'BeholdHim,andlive.'Lookuntome,andbesaved,alltheendsoftheearth;forIamGod,andthereisnoneelse.'ThesufferingSaviorhasprocuredforyouthepardonofsin,thefavorofGod,andalifeofendlessfelicitybeyondthegrave.ByHis precious blood 'shallHe sprinklemanynations.'Ah!ifyoudonotbeholdHimnow,withthankfulnessandjoy,asyourSavior, there is adayapproachingwhen,with terror, youshall beholdHim coming in the clouds of heaven, with powerandgreatglory,tojudgetheworld.ThenyouwhohavepiercedHimbyyoursins,andrefusedtolooktoHimforpardon,shallbeholdtheManwhenitwillbetoolatetoreceiveHispardoningmercy;whenyoumustforeverdrinkofthatbittercupofwrath,whichtheSaviorinthegardenemptiedforthosewhohavefledtoHim for refuge. Then every eye shall beholdHim, and theyalso who pierced Him. How unlike the Man of Sorrows, howunlike the pale and agonizing Sufferer of Gethsemane, howunlikethetortured'ManofCalvary',willHethenappear!Oh,letuslooktoHimnowbyfaith;andinthatgreatanddreadfulday,when the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll, and theelementsshallmeltwithferventheat,weshallliftupourheadswithjoy,whilethedespisersofHismercy,interroranddespair,are callingupon themountainsand rocks to fall on them,andhidethemfromthefaceofHimwhositsonthethrone,andfromthewrathoftheLamb!

BEARING HIS CROSS, TUE SAVIOR IS LED TO CALVARY.

ThesentenceofdeathhasbeenpassedupontheSonofGod:Hehasendured themost shocking insults from theofficersof thepriests,and thesoldiers;andnow thebloodysentence is tobeexecuted.AmidacrowdofHisbitterestfoes,Jesus,theLambofGod,isledawaytothesceneofHiscrucifixion.Afewsorrowingfriends follow Him 'afar off;' while multitudes view the scenewithbutlittleconcern.Letus–inspirit,followtheprocessionasitmovesalongthestreetsofJerusalem,andpassesthroughthegates of the city towards Calvary. Let us carefully trace thefootstepsofourSaviortotheCross;andwitness,withfeelingsofsolemnity,theloweststepsinHishumiliation.

'And they tookJesus, and ledHimaway.AndHe,bearingHiscross,wentforthuntoaplacecalledtheplaceofaskull,whichiscalledintheHebrew,Golgotha.'Whatasightisthatwhichnowmeets our astonished gaze! The Savior going forth to die,bearingHisowncrossuponHisshoulders,whilethebloodstillflowsdownHischecksfromthethornsthatpiercedHistemples!Well may Isaiah, rapt in prophetic vision, ask with wonder:'Who is this who comes from Edom, from the city of Bozrah,with his clothing stained red? Who is this in royal robes,marching in the greatness of his strength? It is I, the Lord,announcing your salvation! It is I, the Lord, who ismighty tosave!'Withwhat astonishmentmust all heavenhave gazed onthissadandmysteriousscene!Yetwehearnocomplaintsfromthe lips of the lowly, and oppressed, and afflicted Redeemer.What unexampled meekness and patience are manifested byHim who could, by His word of omnipotence, have laid HisenemieslifelessatHisfeet!WhatgratitudeandpraiseshallwerendertotheblessedSaviorforthus,inHisimmeasurablelove,voluntarilybearingoursinsinHisownbody!

But lookagain!BeholdtheManofSorrowsoppressedwiththeburdenHebears.BeholdHim,whosearmssustainthepillarsoftheuniverse, bending towards the groundunder theweight ofHiscross!BeholdHim,whosevoicestilledthewavesofthesea,andcalled thedead to life,almostprostratedat the feetofHis

enemies! No wonder the strength of Christ's human natureshould now be exhausted under the burden laid on Him. Nowonder that groans are now uttered by the suffering Savior.Look at Him but a few hours before this affecting sceneoccurred,whenHelayagonizinginGethsemane,exposedtothecold,damp,midnightair,drinking thehorriblecupHisFatherhadgivenHim,whilemysteriousdropsofbloodfromHissacredbodywerefallingto theground.LookatHiminthisweakandexhausted condition, seized, bound, dragged from the garden,arraigned beforeAnnas, Caiaphas, Pilate, andHerod- buffetedandscourged,Hisfacedisfigured,andHistemplespiercedwiththecrownofthorns.CanyouwonderthatJesusshouldnowbeexhausted when He so recently endured the most piercingagony,andthemostcrueltreatment?DonotthesesufferingsofHisseemtoyou,evenwithoutHiscrucifixion,tohavebeenmostviolent and bitter grief's, to have been awful and dreadfulscenes?

Butviewthesceneinanotherlight.Itwasnotmerelytheweightof that cross-piece, which bowed the Son of God in pain andexhaustiontotheground.Itwasnotmerelythefatigue,northelossofblood,northeprospectofapainfulandignominiousend,thatcausedthepallorofdeathtopassoverHiscountenance.ItwasaburdenfargreaterthanthecrossonHisshoulders.Itwasthe infinitewrath ofGod due to sin. Itwas this heavy burdenthatmost severely oppressed theSavior. ItmadeHim faint. ItcostHimHispreciousblood.ToHiscrosswerenailedbothsin,andthecurseofthelaw;andbothwerelaiduponHisshoulders.Thus He bore our sins upon the cross. When we behold thismysterioussight,theLordofglory,theSonoftheEternal,inournature,bowedtothegroundinweaknessandpainforoursakes,wemay trulyexclaimwith theprophet: 'Surelyhe tookupourinfirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered himstricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. But he waspiercedforourtransgressions,hewascrushedforouriniquities;thepunishmentthatbroughtuspeacewasuponhim,andbyhiswoundswearehealed.'

'Hesunkbeneathourheavywoes,ToraiseustoathroneThere'sneveragiftHishandbestowsButcostHisheartagroan.'

Omy Savior, when I view You bearing the cross, and sinkingunder it,may Ibedeeplyaffectedwithaproper senseofYourextreme sufferings, and the infinite evil of sin– the procuringcause of Your death. May I also view, with admiration andgratitude, Your condescending grace here so illustriouslydisplayed.MostwillinglyandpatientlydidYoubearthecrossonearth,thatImightwearacrownofgloryinheaven.HowinfiniteYourmercyinstoopingsolowinhumiliationandsuffering,thatruined man might be crowned with all the happiness of thecelestialworld!InimitationofYoumayIbeenabledtotakeupmy cross daily, and follow You through evil as well as goodreport,rememberingYouhavesaid,'Ifanymanwillcomeafterme,lethimdenyhimself,andtakeuphiscross,andfollowme.'SinceYou have borne the cross for our sakes, the burdenYouimposeonusisindeedlight.InYourboundlessbenevolenceforthe sinful, the lost, and thewretched,Youhave said, 'Takemyyoke upon you, and learn ofMe, for I ammeek and lowly inheart; and you shall find rest unto your souls. Formy yoke iseasy, and my burden is light.' In compliance with Yourcommand, and supported by You, may I always be foundbearingYourburden,andmycross,upthroughthewildernessofthissin-stainedworld,tothoseblissfulabodes,whereIshallrestandrejoiceforeverattheFountainofallfelicity.

Let us still hear our cross cheerfully and patiently, while wefollow the sacred steps of theLord Jesus. Thoughourpathberugged,andbesetwithenemies; thoughourheartsoften faint,while innumerable evils encompassus; yetmaywe remember,that it isby thecrosswereach thekingdomofheavenandthecrownofeverlastinglife.Andwhyshouldwefeartotakeupthatwhichwillconductustoaheavenlykingdomandanever-fadingcrownofglory?

WhenthecrosswasremovedfromtheshouldersofChristitwaslaidonSimon,anativeofCyrene, the fatherofAlexanderandRufus, 'thathemightbear itafterJesus.'Theprocessionagainmovesalong,leadingtheinnocentvictim,theimmaculateLambof God, to be immolated on the summit of Calvary. Immensecrowds of people are following, many of whom are doubtless,strangers assembled from different parts of the country, toobservethePassover.Amongthismixedmultitude,wemaywellsuppose, were not a few who had experienced in their ownbodiesthehealingpowerofJesus.ThesewouldfollowHimwithsorrowful steps. Many women bewailed with tears His nearapproachingdeath.'AndtherefollowedHimagreatcompanyofpeople,andofwomen,whichalsobewailedandlamentedHim.'TheheartofJesusistouchedforthesemourners.Hecouldbearthereproachandinsultsoftherabblewithpatience,andwithoututtering aword; but nowHe speaks.Oh,when are the lips ofJesus ever sealed to the voice of grief? When is His heartinsensibletoourwoes?WhendoesHenotsympathizewithusindistress?WhendoesHenotpitythemiseriesevenofthosewhorejectHim,andsayintheirheart-'WewillnothavethisMantoreignoverus?'

Though Calvary is within sight- though the dreadful scenes ofHiscrucifixionarefullyinview-yetHeseemstoforgetHisowndeepdistress,whileHeturnstotheweepingwomen,andsays,'Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep foryourselves, and for your children. For behold, the days arecoming,inthewhichtheyshallsay,Blessedarethebarren,andthewombsthatneverbore,andthebreastswhichnevernursed.Thenshalltheybegintosaytothemountains,Fallonus;andtothehills,Coverus. For if they do these things in a green tree,what shall be done in the dry?' Ah! what a fearful picture ofdistress was before the mind of the Savior when He utteredthesewords!BeforetheeyeofHim,whodeclarestheendfromthebeginning,andfromancienttimesthethingsthatarenotyetdone,arosetheterrificsceneofthedestructionofJerusalemby

theRomans.Heseesthecityencompassedwitharmies;andtheRoman eagle waving in triumph over the ruins of themagnificent temple. He hears the moans of the dyinginhabitantsas theyaresweptoffby the famine, thepestilence,andthesword.Yes,andonHisvisionrisesthatdreadfulscenesovividlydescribedbyJosephus- thecrucifixionofsomanyoftheJewsbeforethegatesofJerusalem,bythecommandoftheRoman general, that at last there was neither room to erectcrossesnearthewalls,norwoodsufficientforcrosses.Inview,then, of all the woe and carnage of that dreadful siege ofJerusalemunderTitus,whichtookplaceinlessthanfortyyearsfrom that time, and which Josephus tells us exceeded all thecalamitieswhichhadbefallenanynationfromthebeginningoftheworld,wellmaytheSavioraddressthosetouchingwordstothewomenwholamentedHisdeath.

THE SAVIORS CRUCIFIXION. At length the place appointedforthecrucifixionofChrist isreached. 'Whentheycametotheplace called the Skull, there they crucifiedhim, alongwith thecriminals– one on his right, the other on his left.' With ourheartsdeeplyaffected,letusnowcontemplatethismostsolemnsceneofourLord's crucifixion.And,whilewe turnoureyes tothecross,letusnotstandatagreatdistance,andtakea'faroff'lookatacrucifiedRedeemer,likethoseofwhomitissaid,'theystoodafaroff,beholdingthesethings;'butletusdrawnear,andseethisgreatandmarveloussightwhichtheangelsbeheldwithastonishment, and which has brought glory to God in thehighest,andonearthpeace,goodwill towardsmen.Oh, letusdraw close to Christ by faith in His atoning blood, and beclothed in His spotless righteousness. Behold Him, as HereachesthesummitofCalvary,afterHiswearisomeandpainfulwaytothecross.SeeHimlaidupontheground,withHisarmsstretched out on the cross-piece which he had carried, and towhichHe is nailed. Listen to the sound of those heavy blows,whichdrive thenails through thepalms ofHis blessedhands.SeeHispersecutorsnowdrivingotherspikes throughHis feet,whichfastenthemtotheuprightpost.Thus is theprophecyof

thePsalmistfulfilled:'Theypiercedmyhandsandmyfeet.'SeethecrossnowerectedwithitsbleedingVictimnailedtoit.Nowbehold the Son ofGod suspendedupon the accursed tree,HiswholeweighthangingonthespikesthroughHishandsandfeet,Hisbloodflowing instreamsfromthewounds,enduringpainsthemost extreme and griefs the most bitter, encompassed byHisrevilingpersecutors,assailedbyevilspirits,andforsakenbyHisFather! 'Myenemies surroundme like apackofdogs; anevilgangclosesinonme.Theyhavepiercedmyhandsandfeet.Icancounteveryboneinmybody.Myenemiesstareatmeandgloat.Theydividemyclothesamongthemselvesandthrowdiceformygarments.InthisconditionHeislefttodie,withthetwothievesashiscompanions.ThustheLordofglory,whilebearingthe sins of many, is numbered with the transgressors, andmakesHisgravewiththewicked.

WhiletheSaviorhangsinindescribabletortureonthecross,letuslistentoHisdyingwords.TotheverylastHeisemployedindoinggood, and inaccomplishing thegreatworkonwhichHehad been sent into the world. Even on the cross He is notinactive.Hishands are still stretchedout tobless and to save.His heart is still full of compassion and pity. His voice is stilluttering words of forgiveness and love to the sinful and thewretched.Oh,whataffecting,consoling,andblessedwords fallfrom the lips of the Son of God before He bows His head indeath!Letus carefullyattend to those last sayings of theLordJesus, uttered while He was enduring the deep agony of acrucifixion.

THE SAVIORS FIRST SAYING ON THE CROSS. The firstsayingofChristonthecrossistheprayerforHispersecutors.ItwasofferedwhenHisheartwasrackedwiththedeepestagony;whenHis persecutorswere in the very act of driving the nailsthrough His hands and feet, or shortly after the cross waserected, when they had accomplished their wickedwork.Hownatural to suppose that the innocent Suffererwould now prayfor the destruction of His persecutors! But hark!What gentle

accentsdowehear falling fromthepale,quivering lipsofHimwho is stretched on yonder bloody cross? They are thebreathingsofthedyingSavior,whosecheekisdewedwithtearsof compassion for lost sinners, and whose boundless love hasconstrained Him, amid excruciating pain, derision, andreproach, to give His holy life a ransom for many. From thatcross on which the world's Redeemer hangs and bleeds, thewondrousprayer isborne toheaven- 'Father, forgive them; fortheyknownotwhattheydo.'

Oh,what unexampled benevolence is displayed in this prayer!How unlike the utterances of the natural heart- how like thelanguage of Him who is love! Behold the Savior's meek,forgivingeyeraisedfromthecrossinpatientagony,andreadinthat eye the vastness of His redeeming love. The dying Jesuspraying forHismurderers!Whatmore touching scene can bepresented for our admiration, gratitude, and praise? And wasnotthatremarkableprayeranswered?Yes,notlongafter,manywhohadshouted,withthechiefpriestsandscribes,'AwayWithHim, Crucify Him,' were heard to cry out in heartfelt sorrow,'Men and brethren, what shall we do?' Under the touchingsermonofPeteronthedayofPentecost, 'aboutthreethousandsouls'wereaddedtothechurch;andsoonafter, 'thenumberofthemenwasaboutfivethousand.'Theapostlesweredirectedtomake the first offers of peace and pardon, through theatonement made on Calvary, to those very people who hadimbruedtheirhandsinthebloodoftheSonofGod.'BeginningatJerusalem'wasthecommand.

Ihearasoundthatcomesfromfar;Itfillsmysoulwithjoyandlove;Notseraphs'voicessweeterare,Thatechothroughthecourtsabove.'Tismercy'svoicethatstrikesmyear,FromCalvaryitsoundsabroad,Itsoothesmysoulandcalmsmyfear;Itspeaksofpardonboughtwithblood.

AndisittruethatmanyflyThesoundthatbidsmysoulrejoice,Andratherchoosewithfoolstodie,Thanturnaneartomercy'svoice.WithsuchIownIonceappeared,ButnowIknowhowgreattheirloss;Forsweetersoundswereneverheard,Thanmercyuttersfromthecross.'

But amid all that unspeakable compassion and lovewhich theSaviormanifests on the cross, the people, the rulers, and thesoldiers,stillgoontoderideandreproachHim,bysaving, 'So!YoucandestroytheTempleandbuilditagaininthreedays,canyou?Well then, if you are the Son of God, save yourself andcomedownfromthecross''HimselfHecannotsave.''IfyouarethesonofGod,comedownfromthecross.''IfHeistheKingofIsrael, let Him now come down from the cross, and we willbelieveHim.HetrustedinGod;letHimdeliverHimnow,ifHewillhaveHim: forHesaid, Iam theSonofGod.'The soldierspart His garments among them; cast lots for His coat; andsitting down,watchHim there. But let us listen further to theconsolingandmajesticwordsofJesusonthecross.

THE SAVIOR'S SECOND SAYING ON THE CROSS. His nextsayingisHisaddresstooneofthemalefactors,whodesiredtheSavior to remember him when He should come into Hiskingdom. 'And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me whenYou come into Your kingdom.' How full of grace, mercy, andtruth, is the Redeemer ofmankind! To the end ofHis earthlysojournHelovestopromotethespiritualandeternalwelfareofthefallenandtheerring,verifyingHisowndeclaration, 'Ihavenot come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.' InwhatahappylightisHehereexhibitedtousfromthecross-inHisowndeathsavingthedyingmalefactor!Whilenailedtotheaccursedtree,enduringthemostindescribablesufferingbothofbodyandsoul,He turnsHisgraciouseye to thepenitent thief,and addresses to him these cheeringwords, 'Truly, I say unto

you, today you shall be with me in Paradise.' What moreanimatingwords couldhavebeen spokenby theSavior to onewhosepastlifewasstainedwithsin,andwhowasnowpunishedforhis transgression, and about to appear before the Judge ofheaven and earth! Today you shall pass with me through thegates of Paradise. Today you shall drink wine with me in myFather'skingdom,andeatofthefruitoftheTreeofLife,whichgrowsinthemidstofParadise.Todayyoushallenjoythemostblissful and intimate communion with me in those heavenlymansions which are irradiated by the glory of God and theLamb. Wondrous grace indeed! This precious promise musthaverejoicedthesoulofthepenitentthiefinthehighestdegree,andmadedeathitselfappeartohimasaconqueredenemy;withitsstingextractedanditsterrorsfled.

Yes,weseemtohearfromthelipsofthatoncewretchedman-butnow,attheeleventhhour,reclaimedbysovereigngrace-theshoutoftriumphamidthepiercingagonyofacrucifixion,andinthe near prospect of dying, 'O death, where is your sting? Ograve,whereisyourvictory?ThanksbetoGod,whogivesusthevictory, through our Lord Jesus Christ.' 'Today!'How gloriousthetransitiontothatpoordyingthief!Littledidhethink,whenthatlastmorningofhislifedawned,thatthedayofhiswretchedexecutionwastoendinsuchhappiness;thatthestormofangryelementsof themorningwould be changed into so blessed anevening's calm. Conceive of the rapid and glorious change! Inthemorningnailedtothecruelcross–intheeveningwearingagoldencrown!Inthemorningcastoutastoovileforearth–intheeveningwelcomedintothehighestheaven!InthemorningblasphemingadyingSavior–intheeveningwiththatSaviorinParadise!Inthemorningpiercedwithsorrowsmorebitterthanthenailsinhishandsandfeet–intheeveningceasingfromcareand pain, and enjoying a peaceful rest! In the morningsurrounded by angry foes, in whose curses he joined– in theeveningreceivedamongangelsandthespiritsofthejust,joininginthechorusoftheredeemed!Inthemorningonearth–intheeveninginheaven!Inthemorningonthebordersofhell–inthe

eveningcaughtuptoParadise.Howmarvelous,howmatchlesstherichnessofDivinegrace!'WhoisaGodlikeYou,pardoninginiquity,transgression,andsin!'

This was the first fruits of the blood of the cross. Preciousfountainofredeemingblood!Howmanythousands,onceasvileas the dyingmalefactor, have sincewashed their robes in thisblood of the Lamb, that was shed for the remission of sins-thousandswhoarenowwithChristinParadise.Yes,withChristin the better country above- in the goodly land of Emmanuel,enjoying the benefits of His vicarious sacrifice on Calvary-monumentsof theall-sufficiencyofHisatoningblood to save-beholding His surpassing glory- now tasting of the immortalfruitoftheTreeofLife-nowsittingunderitsdelightfulshadow-nowstandingbeforethethrone,andjoininginallthesweet,andmelodious,andtransportingsongsoftheheavenlytemple!

Inviewofalltheblessednessthatawaitsthewholefamilyoftheredeemed,asthepurchaseofaSavior'sblood,whatvoyageronlife'sstormyocean,desiringtofindthepeacefulhavenofeternalrest, is not ready to breathe from his inmost soul, the prayer,'Oh!blessedJesus!supportmyspiritwhenIcometodie,withthis comfortable promise, "This day shall you be with me inParadise."We indeed, suffer justly the sentence of death. Oh,Youwhodidnothingamiss,andyetdidsufferforme;rememberme,OLord,nowthatYouareinYourkingdom.'

ThereisafountainfilledwithblooddrawnfromEmmanuel'sveins;Andsinnersplungedbeneaththatfloodlosealltheirguiltystains.

Thedyingthiefrejoicedtoseethatfountaininhisday;AndtherehaveI,thoughvileashe,washedallmysinsaway.

DeardyingLamb,YourpreciousbloodshallneverloseitspowerTillalltheransomedchurchofGodbesaved,tosinnomore.

E'ersince,byfaith,IsawthestreamYourflowingwoundssupply,Redeeminglovehasbeenmytheme,andshallbetillIdie.

Theninanobler,sweetersong,I'llsingYourpowertosave,Whenthispoorlisping,stammeringtongueliessilentinthegrave.

THESAVIORCOMMENDSHISMOTHERTOTHECAREOFTHEBELOVEDDISCIPLE.AsChristhangsinthemidstofHisdying agonies, seeHimaffectionately commendingHis sorely-triedmother,whostandsnearthecross,tothecareofJohn,thebeloved disciple. Turning to herwhose cheek is bedewedwithtears,andwhosesouliswrungwiththemostpoignantgrief,Headdressesthesewords: 'Woman,beholdyourSon!' Ithasbeenobserved, that 'Hecalledhernotmother, lest shemightgrievethemorefromthetendernessofherintenselove.'Afterutteringthesewords,HefixesHiseyeonthebeloveddisciple,whowasstandingnearthedeeply-grievedmotherofourLord,andsays,'Behold your mother!' 'From that hour,' we are told, 'thatdiscipletookheruntohisownhome.'HowtendertheregardofChrist for her in whom the prophecy of Simeon was thenfulfilled:'Yes,aswordshallpiercethroughyourownsoulalso.'

HasthetenderkindnessoftheRedeemerforHisown,whoareintheworld,everbeenequaled?Oh,no. It infinitelysurpassesallthemanifestationsofhumantenderness.Itisunutterable.HeneverforamomentforsakesthosewhoarefounddoingthewillofHisFather,andwhomHeregardsasHisbrother,andsister,and mother. They are always kept as the apple of His eye-

engraved upon the palms of His hands- borne upon Hisbreastplate,andsetasasealuponHisheart,anduponHisarm.All theirneeds are suppliedoutofHisunwasting fullness.Hiseye of love is ever upon them during their earthly pilgrimage;and He knows how to deliver them out of all their troubles.'Manyaretheafflictionsoftherighteous:buttheLorddelivershimoutofthemall.'Oh,letuseverrelyonHisprovidentialcare,andconfideinHisunchanginglove.

InthissayingofChrist,thechurchisfurnishedwithanexcellentpatternfortheproperdischargeofsomeofthemostimportantdutiesofhumanrelationship.Hehascommendedfilialloveanddutyinthestrongestterms:andifwewouldfollowHisblessedsteps,letuscarefullyobservethedivinecommand:'honoryourfatherandyourmother;thatthedaysmaybelonguponthelandwhichtheLordyourGodgivesyou.'THEMYSTERIOUSDARKNESS.Itwasatthethirdhourofthedayatnineo'clockinthemorning,thatJesuswasnailedtothecross. For three hours He hangs in indescribable torture,patientlyenduringallthescoffsandreproachesofHisfoes.HislastprayerforHispersecutorshasbeenoffered.Hehasrescuedthepenitentthieffromthepitofthelost,andassuredhimthat,inafewhours,heshouldbecrownedwiththegloryandfelicityofParadise.Hehas commendedHismother to the careof thebeloved disciple.During all this time nature does not seem tosympathizewith the divine Sufferer of Calvary. All is tranquil.No thunder rolls along the heavens: no lightnings flash acrossthe sky: no earthquakes upheave the lofty mountains. In thebright sunlight smiles the rich landscape of Palestine, nowclothed with all the verdure of spring. But look again. Howchanged the scene! It is now mid day. Noon time has come!when lo!allatonce,ahorribledarknessgathersoverthe land,filling many a heart with terror and dismay, and hiding thetragical scenes of Calvary from the view of the insulting andpersecuting foesofChrist.Butmorethanthis; theheavensareturnedintoblackness.Thesun,refusingtoshineonascenesoshocking,veilshis face inmidnightdarkness,whileEmmanuel

issufferingmorethanmindcanconceive-whilethecolddropsofdeathstandonthepale,agony-wrungbrowoftheSonofGod,theSaviorandFriendofsinners.Nowis literallyaccomplishedthepredictionofAmos, 'And it shall come topass in thatday,withtheLordGod,thatIwillcausethesuntogodownatnoon,andIwilldarkentheearthonaclearday.' 'Andwhenthesixthhourhad come, therewas darkness over thewhole land, untiltheninthhour.''Andthesunwasdarkened.'

'Thesunbeheldit-No,theshockingsceneDrovebackhischariot:midnightveiledhisface;Notsuchasthis;notsuchasnaturemakes;Amidnightnatureshudderedtobehold;Amidnightnew!adreadeclipse(withoutOpposingspheres)fromherCreator'sfrown!Sun!didyoufleeyourMaker'spain?orstartAtthatenormousloadofhumanguilt,WhichbowedHisblessedhead;overwhelmedHiscross;Madegroanthecenter;burstearth'smarblewombWithpangs,strangepangs!deliveredofherdead?Hellhowled,andHeaventhathourletfallatear;Heavenweptthatmanmightsmile!Heavenbledthatmanmightneverdie!'

THE SAVIOR'S PIERCING CRY. During that mysterious,naturaldarkness,whichenvelopedthewholelandfromthesixthhouruntilthreeo'clockintheafternoon,thehumansoulofourblessedSaviorwassurroundedwiththemostdreadfulspiritualdarkness and desertion. From the commencement of thesupernaturaldarknessuntilabout its termination,Heseemstohave remained silent.He drinks the bitter cup of God's wrathduetosin.ThepowersofdarknessfiercelyassailHim.HeenjoysnosensiblecommunionwithHeaven.ItisthegloomiestperiodinHiswholelife.ButatlengthHisagonyissopiercingthatHeis constrained to utter the most touching words of grief. HisFather- His own Father- in whose bosom He had lain from

eternity- His Father, by whom He was always beloved, haswithdrawnthelightofHiscountenancefromHim;andfromHiscrossarisesamostpiercingandagonizingcry.

AttheninthhourJesuscriedwithaloudvoice,saying,'MyGod,myGod,whyhaveYouforsakenme?'Oh,howmysterious,howsolemn,howaffectingisthiscry!ItisthemostdolefulthatevercamefromthelipsofChristduringHissorrowfulsojournfromthemangertothecross.Whileinthegarden,enduringHisgreatspiritualconflict,Hedidnotcryinthismanner.Hecouldthenaddress His Father, as being near Him, to assist Him in Hismysterious agony. He could then say: 'O my Father; if it bepossible, let this cuppass fromme:nevertheless,not as Iwill,butasYouwill.'ButnowonthecrosshowdifferentHiscry-'MyGod, my God, why have You forsakenme?' Ah! how dreadfulmust it be to experience thewithdrawal of the countenance ofHiminwhosefavorislife,andinwhosefrownisdeath.ThiswastheheaviestwavethateverwentoverthehumansoulofJesus;and it made the last hour of His pilgrimage the hour ofunspeakablesuffering.HehadpatientlyenduredtheseizureofHis person, the forsaking of His disciples, the cruel trial, theunjustcondemnation,themocking,thescourging,thebearingofHiscross,thereproachesofHispersecutors,theassaultsofHisspiritualfoes,andallthetortureofacrucifixion;butwhenHisFatherhidesHisfacefromHimHeiswellnearoverwhelmed.

AllHisformersufferingscameshortofthistrial.TotheSaviorthiswastrulythehourofdarkness-ofreproach-oftemptation-ofpain-ofdesertion.Yes,whileHisblessedbody-isquiveringinevery nerve from excruciating pain - while wicked men anddevils surround Him, he enjoys no sensible communion withHisFather.NoonecanconceivewhatanguishmusthavebeenexperiencedbytheSonofGodunderthehidingsofHisFather'sfacebyHimwhohadalwaysenjoyedHisFather'spresence,andHis Father's love; and who could ever say, 'I am not alone,because theFather iswithMe.' 'Oh,mySavior,no tongue candescribe,noangelcanfathomtheabyssofYoursufferingforme

asinner!AsIcannotreachtheinfiniteheightofYourloveandYourgloryinheaven,soIcannotdescendintothedepthofYoursorrows when here on earth. I can only wonder and adore.'(RowlandHill)Let us often remember those hours of darkness and desertionwhenJesuswas stretched on the cross; andwhilewe think ofoursufferinganddesertedSavior,letusalsoconsiderthecauseofthatinternal,overpoweringconflict,whichatlastcausedHisgrieftoburstforthinacrythatwrungtheheartsofHisfriendswithsorrow,andfilledheavenwithastonishment.Ah!whydoesHe thus groan in Spirit!Why does He hang on yonder cross,utteringwith 'strongcryingand tears' thesedolefulwords, 'MyGod,myGod,whyhaveYouforsakenme?'ItwasnotthenailswhichpiercedHishandsandfeet,northeagonyofacrucifixion,that caused thismournful cry.Hewas now offering himself asacrificeforthesinsoftheworld;andasourSuretyHesufferedall thatdivine justice required tobring the sinnerback toGodandtoglory.HereisthegreatmysteryofGodliness:theFatherbruises the Son, and puts Him to grief for our sakes; and allthose cries, and tears, and groans of Him, whom the Fatherappointedtoaccomplishoursalvation,wereforus.

IfChristhadnotinterposedandmadepeacebythebloodofHisCross, ifHehadnotassumedourguiltandstood inourroom,He would never have experienced such anguish of soul, noruttered so doleful a cry; forGod the Fatherwould never havedesertedHisbelovedSon.ButwhenHevoluntarilyundertakesto redeemman, whenHe comes in the great name of God tosaveus sinners, the Father forsakesHim, because that onHisshoulderswasthenlaidtheenormousloadofhumanguilt.Howshould it excite our hearts to gratitude and praise, when weremember that all Christ suffered on the cross was for sinfulhumanity.Hethenenduredpainthatwemightenjoypleasure.He suffered the hidings of His Father's countenance, that thelight of that countenancemight shine upon us; that wemighthave gracious communingswith the Father of Spirits; thatwemightenjoythesmilesofourHeavenlyFather's love; thatGod

might be our everlasting light. Oh, what do such voluntaryhumiliationandsufferingdemandfromus?WhatcanwerendertoourDivine Surety forHis amazing and unparalleled love tous?SurelyourwarmestaffectionsshouldbegiventoHimwhowasthusmindfulofusinourlostcondition.'Werethewholerealmofnaturemine,Thatwereapresentfartoosmall;Lovesoamazing,sodivine,Demandsmysoul,mylife,myall.'

LetourwholelivesbepassedincelebratingHisredeeminglove,andcontemplatingHis excellence and beauty, so thatwe shallbepreparedtodwellinHispresenceonHigh,thereunceasinglytobeholdHisfaceinrighteousness,andtotrace,astheagesofglory roll, the streams of His boundless, unfathomable loveflowingineverwideningchannelsthroughalleternity.Andoh,maywe nowhave grace to feel, aswe turn to the cross of thesinner's Friend, that for our sakes came the doleful voice, 'MyGod,myGod,whyhaveYouforsakenme?'

Oh,whatagroanwasthere!agroannotHis.Heseizedourdreadfulright;theloadsustained,Andheavedthemountainfromaguiltyworld.'

THE SAVIOR'S THIRST. After uttering the piercing cry, 'MyGod,myGod,whyhaveYouforsakenme?'andknowingthatallthingswereabouttobeaccomplished,thatthescripturemightbefulfilled,Jesussaid,'Ithirst.'WhocanwonderthatHeshouldcomplain of extreme thirst amid the agoniesHewas enduringon the cross? He has received no refreshment since thecommencementofHisawfulconflictinGethsemane,wherethearrows of the Almighty were within Him, the poison whereofdrankupHisspirit.HehassufferedsomuchfromtheeffusionofbloodthatHecannowsay, 'Mylifeispouredoutlikewater,andallmybonesareoutofjoint.Myheartislikewax,meltingwithin me. My strength has dried up like sunbaked clay. Mytonguestickstotheroofofmymouth.Youhavelaidmeinthe

dustandleftmefordead.'FornearlysixhoursHehasenduredthemostinconceivablesufferingonthecross,untilHisstrengthisdrieduplikeasunbakedclay-untilHistonguecleavestoHisjaws-untilHeisbroughtintothedustofdeath.Andnow,intheextremity of His sufferings, He cries, 'I thirst.' The soldiersforthwith fill a sponge with vinegar, and hold it up to Hisparched lips. He meekly receives the bitter potion; andimmediately after, He utters His last two sayings; and thenresignsHisspiritintothehandsofHisFather.

When our Lord had received the vinegar mingled with bittergall, theprophecywas fulfilled, 'Theygavemealsogall foranyfood; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.' Thesufferings which caused the Savior thus to thirst were bothphysicalandmental.AtthatsolemnmomentHecouldsay,'Myheart is smitten, and withered like grass. I am weary of anycrying:mythroatisdried:myeyesfailwhileIwaitformyGod.''Mysoulisexceedingsorrowful,evenuntodeath.'Oh,howgreatwere the sufferings of His soul, which was then enduring therighteousdispleasureofGodagainstsin!ThehandofHisFatherwasnowheavyuponHimforoursakes.Hissoulwasfilledwithgrief,andHismoisture'turnedintothedroughtofsummer.'Onthe cross He thirsted for God. His soul panted after Him. Helonged for rest in thebosomofHisFather.He thirsted for thepleasures of the heavenly world, and the light of the DivinecountenancewhichwaswithdrawnfromHim.

He also thirsted for the accomplishment of our salvation. Hethirstedthatthebelievermightthirstnomore.'Hethatbelieveson me shall never thirst.' He was dried and parched withburningthirstthatourspiritsmightberefreshed,whilepassingthrough the earth, with the pure, soul-reviving water of life,clearascrystal.Hethirsted,thatthestreamsofsalvationmightbreak out in the desert of this world. He thirsted, that theredeemedmight forever drink of the river of pleasures in theParadiseofGod.There, 'theyshallbeabundantlysatisfiedwiththefullnessofYourhouse;andYoushallmakethemdrinkofthe

river of Your pleasures.' There, 'they shall hunger no more,neitherthirstanymore.'HowwonderfulisthegraceofChristtoalostworld!

'Oh,therichdepthsoflovedivine;OfblissaboundlessstoreDearSavior,letmecallYoumine,Icannotwishformore.OnYoualonemyhoperelies,BeneaththecrossIfall,Youaremylife,mysacrifice,MySavior,andmyall.'

THE SAVIOR'S SIXTH SAYING ON THE CROSS. Theunutterable anguish of Jesus is drawing to a close. His sixthsaying, 'It is finished,' falls on the ears of the astonishedspectators. Information more joyful, more glorious, could nothavebeencommunicatedtoman.Inthesewordsiscontainedallthatanimmortal spirit candesire;peacewithGod- therichestblessings on earth- the highest felicity in heaven. 'IT ISFINISHED.'Gladtidings!NowcanChristaddresstheFatherinthesewords: 'IhaveglorifiedYouon theearth. Ihave finishedtheworkwhichYougavemetodo.'TheillustriousSuffererwhohangsonyondercross,hasfinishedHisdivinemissiononearth-HiswearisomejourneysthroughthelandofIsrael-Hisworksofbenevolence, and mercy, and miracles- all His sorrows andagoniesasourrepresentative.Hehasfinishedthegreatworkofredemption-finishedtransgression-madeanendof sin-madereconciliation for iniquity- and brought in everlastingrighteousness!Hehaspointedout thewayofpeace-boundupthe broken hearted- reclaimed the wanderer- preached thegospeltothepoor-revealedthepurposesofGodrespectingthesalvationofsinners,andbroughtlifeandimmortalitytolight.

ThetypesandpropheciesconcerningHisdeatharefulfilled;thegreat atoning sacrifice is offered; the ransom is paid; divinejustice is fully satisfied; thepromisesaresealed; thepowersof

darkness are vanquished; man is saved, and God glorified.Nothing now interposes between Heaven and earth. The lastbarrier in theway of the sinner's salvation has been removed.Now the gates of Paradise are opened wide to the children ofearth, and celestial glory shines forth. It encircles the humblebeliever; leads him through green pastures beside the stillwaters; and guides him to those blissful realms, where thetabernacleofGodiswithmen-wheretheshadowsofdeatharepast-wheregriefischangedtosongs-whereGodisallinall.

Howserene,howfullofconfidence,howtriumphantdoesChristappearinHislastmoments!Thesublimethoughtofthehappyresult of His death, sustains and soothes Him amid the mostextremepain.NowdoesHeseeofthetravailofHissoul,andissatisfied.He rejoices in spirit. 'Thereforemyheart is glad andmygloryrejoices;myfleshalsoshallrest inhope.ForYouwillnotleavemysoulinhell:neitherwillYouallowYourHolyOnetoseecorruption.'Behold the triumphof theRedeemer inHisdeath. He did not commit His spirit into the hands of HisFather, and expire, untilHeknew that all things pertaining tothe redemption ofmanwere accomplished. Then, with a loudvoice,Heexclaims:'Itisfinished!'

Atthesoundofthisvictoriouscry,webelievethatSatanandhislegionstrembledandfled;whilethehostsofGodonhightunedtheirgoldenharpsanew,andsang'asitwereanewsong,'whentheysawthe'LionofthetribeofJudah,theRootofDavid,'seizethepreyoutofthehandsofthemighty,prevailoverdeathandhell,and leadcaptivitycaptive.Whatrapturous joymusthavesprung up in the bosom of those pure, celestial beings, whenthey saw that the work of redemption was finished! Into thisgloriousmysteryweareassured theangelsdesire to look.Andshallweneglectordespisesogreatsalvation?Shallweeverbedeaf to theblissful soundwhichcomes fromCalvary- fromthelips of the dying Friend of sinners, 'It is finished.' May thissound from the cross ever strike our ear with the sweetestmelody.Itproclaimspardon,peace,andeternallifetoasinful,

guiltyworld.No sound is so sweet to the ears of an awakenedand anxious sinner as that which conveys the tidings of afinished salvation.Then look to theCross,O youwho feel theheavyburdenof sin–youaroundwhom thegalling chainsarefastened,andwhoaretakencaptivebySatanathiswill.CometotheSavior.Hewillbreakyourchains,andgiveyourest,peace,joy,andimmortality;forwithHisdyingvoiceofloveandmercyHehasproclaimed,respectingman'ssalvation-'Itisfinished!'

'Hark!thevoiceofloveandmercySoundsaloudfromCalvary;Seetherocksarerentasunder,Darknessveilsthemid-daysky;"Itisfinished!"HearthedyingSaviorcry.Oh,whatjoytohelplesssinners,Thesetriumphantwordsafford!Heavenlyblessings,withoutmeasure,FlowtousthroughChristtheLord."Itisfinished!"SaintsHisdyingwordsrecord.Tuneyourharpsanew,youseraphs!StrikethemtoEmmanuel'sname;Allonearth,andallinheaven,Jointhetriumphtoproclaim,"Itisfinished!"GlorytothebleedingLamb.'

THE SAVIORS LAST WORDS ON THE CROSS. Having nowaccomplished the grand object of His mediatorial office onearth,theSaviorpreparesforthelaststruggle-thesolemnandaffecting moment of death. Look again at yonder cross, andlisten to the last cry of the Son of God. It is not one feeblyuttered.No;itisaloudcry.ItisthevoiceofOnewhohaspowertolaydownHislifeandtotakeitagain.ItisthecryofOnewhovoluntarilyexpires.'AndwhenJesushadcriedwithaloudvoice,Hesaid,Father,intoYourhandsIcommendmyspirit.'Thelast

wordsofChristarespoken.Hislastsolemnactisperformed.InwhatdivinemajestydoesHenowappear to thebeliever!Howgreat and sublime are His parting words! After having comefromHisFather,andaccomplishedHisFather'swill,Hecalmlyand confidently commits His spirit into His hands; inaccordance with His own declaration, 'Yes, I came from theFather into theworld,and Iwill leave theworldand return totheFather.'

The first saying of Christ on the cross is the prayer, 'Father,forgivethem: for theyknownotwhat theydo;' andHis last, istheprayer,'Father,intoYourhandsIcommendmyspirit.'ThusHecommencesandendsthesceneofHissufferingwithprayer.What a noble example is here presented for the imitation ofbelievers in the closing hours of their earthly pilgrimage!Maythe last words of Jesus be our support and our joy when weapproach the margin of the dark river of death. Then, whilerelyingwithcheerfulhopeonthemeritsof theRedeemer,maywe say with a smile on our countenance, and the love of Godshedabroad inourheart, 'Father, intoYourhandsIcommendmyspirit.Youhaveredeemedme,OLordGodoftruth.'

Letusnowcommitour spirits into thehandsof ourHeavenlyFather, and our compassionate Redeemer, that they may besafely preserved unto the day of glory, and admitted intomansions of unending felicity. If our souls are faithfullyentrustedtothehandsofourdivineSavior,wemayrejoiceevenamidtheswellingsofJordan;forwhenourearthlyhouseofthistabernacle is dissolved, our spirits shall immediately pass to abuilding of God, a house notmade with hands, eternal in theheavens. Then, whilewe are passing through the valley of theshadow of death, we may confidently sing with the Psalmist,'Godwill redeemmy soul from thepowerof thegrave: forHeshall receive me.' While we thus close our eves on all thetransitoryscenesofearth,wewillopenthemamidtheseraphicsplendors of eternal day, and find ourselves with Christ inParadise. Oh, then, in health, in sickness, and in the solemn

hour of death, let us commit our spirits to the hands of ourHeavenlyFriend;andallwillbewell.

LiketheblessedSavior,thetruechildofGodleavesthisvalleyoftearswithprayeronhislips;andthusengagedheisconductedbyministeringspiritsintothemansionsofeternalpeace,wheretheprayerofearthisexchangedforthepraiseofheaven.whatahappythingtobidadieutoearthwiththisprayer,offeredinthefervencyofalivingfaithinthemeritsoftheRedeemer,'Father,intoYourhandsIcommendmyspirit.' 'LordJesus,receivemyspirit!'Andhowmanythousandsof thosewhonowstandwithadoring gratitude and praise before the celestial throne,rejoicingwithunspeakablejoyintheDivinepresence,havethuspassedthevalleyofmortality,andbeencaughtupintoParadisewithChrist!Visitthedyingbeliever,whoisstronginfaith,andlistentothelastwordshewhispers,andseehowhefollowstheexample of his Lord, calmly resigning his spirit to the Divinehandwithprayer.Yes–'Hearthelastwordsthebelieversays.Hehasbiddenadieutohisearthyfriends;Thereispeaceinhiseyethatupwardbends;Thereispeaceinhiscalmconfidingair;ForhislastthoughtsareGod's,hislastwords,prayer.'

THESAVIOREXPIRES.WhenChristhadaddressedHisFatherinHis lastwords of prayer,He immediately yieldedHis spiritinto the hands ofGod. 'Andhaving said thus,He gave upHisspirit.'Amazingsight!TheHolyandtheJustOnebowsHisheadin the agonies of death! The Lord of glory expires on theaccursedtree!MessiahthePrinceiscutoff;butnotforHisowniniquity. Let us gaze upon this solemn scene, until our heartsglow with gratitude and love to the dying Lamb of God, whotakesawaythesinoftheworld.'Seewhereman'svoluntarysacrificeBowsHismeekhead,theLordofglorydies!FixedtothecrossHisbleedingarmsarebound,Whilecopiousmercystreamsfromeverywound.'

HewhoisthelifeoftheuniversevoluntarilylaysdownHisownlife a ransom for sinners!He, whose brightness is the light ofheaven,andwhoisthetrueLightoftheworld,veilsHislightintheregionandshadowofdeath!

THE SIGNS ATTENDING THE SAVIOR'S DEATH. While wegazeonanexpiringSavior,andseeHisbloodflowingfromthecross, and listen to His last words, other scenes meet ourastonishedview,andclaimourseriousattention.Itisthevoiceof nature proclaiming the greatness of Emmanuel.Whilemenare denying the divine claims of Jesus of Nazareth, and withwickedhandscrucifyingtheSonofthelivingGod,theveryrockscry out, and 'all the frame of the world acknowledges thedominion of the Son of God, whomman despises.' No soonerhad Christ yielded His breath than the earth felt a wondrousshaking,and'gaveagroanasifshetoowasabouttoexpire.'AtthesolemnmomentoftheSavior'sdeath,theearthquakes-therocksare tornasunder- themountains tremble- theveil of thetempleisrentintwo-thetombsburstopen,andthedeadspringto life. 'At thatmoment the curtain in theTemplewas torn intwo,fromtoptobottom.Theearthshook,rockssplitapart,andtombsopened.Thebodiesofmanygodlymenandwomenwhohad died were raised from the dead after Jesus' resurrection.Theyleftthecemetery,wentintotheholycityofJerusalem,andappearedtomanypeople.'

What a solemn spectacle! Never before was such a scenewitnessed by man. Well may the day be overspread withdarkness,andthelightofthesunfadeintheheavens-wellmaythe earth quake to its foundations, and the sepulchers open,whentheRefugeofJudah,theHolyOneofIsrael, thegloriousandmightyLordofcreation,hangsindeath!

'WellmaythecaverndepthsofearthBeshaken,andhermountainsnod;Wellmaythesheeteddeadcomeforth

TogazeuponasufferingGod!Wellmaythetemple-shrinegrowdim,AndshadowsveiltheCherubim,WhenHe,thechosenOneofHeaven,Asacrificeforguiltisgiven!'

ThosewonderfulsignswhichattendedthedeathofChristmadenolittleimpressionuponmanyofHispersecutors.TheRomancenturion,thecommanderofthebandofsoldierswhoattendedatthecross,wasoneofthosewhoweremostaffected.Whenhesaw the heavens turned into darkness at noonday, the earthquaking,andtherocksrending;andespecially,whenhethoughtofthedivineconductofJesusonthecross,andheardHimcrywithaloudvoiceattheverypointofdeath,andsawthatHesocalmly and confidently committedHis spirit into the hands ofHis Father, he feared greatly, while at the same time he gavevent to his feelings in the exclamation, 'Certainly this wasrighteousman.''TrulythiswastheSonofGod.'

AfterwitnessingthesolemnsceneoftheSavior'scrucifixion,thewholemultitude left the sacred spotwith deep emotions. 'Andall the people that came together to that sight, beholding thethingswhichweredone,smotetheirbreastsandreturned.'ButletusstayonCalvary;andnotbeborneawaywiththetorrentofthisvain,thoughtless,andsinfulworld.Letusdailycontemplatethe Savior's cross. Glory shines from it. The sweetest songs ofheaven have respect to it. It gives rise to the happiness of thewholeredeemedhostofGod.Omysoul,seriouslyandsteadilylookatyourRedeemerofferingHimselfasacrificeforyoursins.Behold the Son of God, hanging on the accursed tree,makingpeacebetweenGodandmanby thebloodof thecross!On thesacred summit of Calvary the church was purchased with thebloodofEmmanuel.Therea fountain,which cleanses fromallsin,hasbeen opened. There the precious blood of Christ, as aLambwithoutblemishandwithout spot,hasbeenshed.See itstreaming from the cross for the salvation of the world–speaking better things than the blood of Abel– pleading for

pardon, peace, and reconciliation– opening the gates of theheavenly city, that the righteous nationwhich keeps the truthmay enter in. This is the fountain of which Zechariahprophesied,'InthatdaythereshallbeafountainopenedtothehouseofDavidandtotheinhabitantsofJerusalemforsinandforuncleanness.'

Youpilgrims,whoarejourneyingthroughadryandthirstylandwherethereisnowater,cometothisfountainforrefreshment;herewash your robes, andmake themwhite, that youmay bepreparedtositdownatthemarriage-supperoftheLamb,andtowalkwithChrist inwhite,asthosewhoareworthy.BeholdthewaterofendlesslifeflowingfromthesideoftheblessedJesus,thetruesmittenRock;andasyoujourneythroughtheburningsandsoflife,keepclosebythisRock-theRockofoursalvation.

Amid all the changing scenes of our earthlypilgrimage- in thesunshineofprosperity-inthegloomofadversity-whenblessedwithhealth,andwhenprostratedonbedsofaffliction-mayweturn our eyes with gratitude and love to the cross of Christ,aroundwhichbeamthemostresplendentraysofdivinelove.Onthatpeacefulmount,whereall issprinkledwithatoningblood,maywealwaysrest;andwhenwecometoyieldourbreath,mayourlastthoughtsbeofCalvary,andourlastwordsthoseoftheapostle, 'As for me, God forbid that I should boast aboutanything except the crossof ourLordJesusChrist.Becauseofthat cross, my interest in this world died long ago, and theworld'sinterestinmeisalsolongdead.'

WhenonCalvaryIrest,God,infleshmademanifest,ShinesinmyRedeemer'sface,Fullofbeauty,truth,andgrace.HereIwouldforeverstay,Weepandgazemysoulaway;Youareheavenonearthtome,Lovely,mournfulCalvary.'

HowdifferentlydoestheblessedJesusnowappearinHisstateofexaltation!LiftupyoureyesfromthesceneofHishumiliationandsufferingonearth,andbyfaithbeholdHiminheaven.Hishead, whichwas once encircled with the crown of thorns andsmitten with a reed, now wears 'many crowns' of glory. Hisvisage,whichwasoncemarredmorethananyman,nowshineslikethesuninhisstrength.Hiseves,whichwereoncesuffusedwithtearsandswelledwithgrief,arenow'asaflameoffire.'Hisvoice,whichonceutteredthosedolefulcries in thegardenandonthecross,isnow'asthesoundofmanywaters.'He,whowasoncenailedtothecross,andderidedastheKingoftheJews,hasnowonHisrobeandonHisthighanamewritten,'KingofKingsand Lord of Lords.' He, who was once hurried away by Hisinsultingandpersecutingfoes,withfaintandwearysteps,tothesceneofHiscrucifixion,isnowfollowedbythearmiesofheavenwith unending hallelujahs. He who was once crucified onCalvary, in the midst of the two thieves, now appears in themidstoftheheavenlythroneastheLambthatwasslain,radiantinallthegloryofHisdivineandhumannature,whilethevoiceofthegreatmultitudebeforethethroneissaying, 'Alleluia! fortheLordGodomnipotentreigns.''GreatandmarvelousareYourworks,LordGodAlmighty;justandtrueareYourways,OhKingof saints. Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Yourname?forYouonlyareholy.''WorthyistheLambwhowasslainto receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, andhonor,andglory,andblessing.Blessing,andhonor,andglory,andpower,beuntoHimwhositsuponthethrone,anduntotheLamb,foreverandever.'

Blessed Jesus, may the consideration of Your sufferings anddeathmake a deep and permanent impression on our hearts,leadingustoforsakethewaysofsin,andtolooktoYoufortheblessings of grace and glory.We adore You for becoming ourrepresentative, and for removing the guilt of our sins by Yourvicarious death. Oh, may we be drawn to You by the sweet,attractive influence of the cross, and be conformed to Your

blessedimageinallthings.Fulfill inusYourwords, 'AndI, ifIbeliftedupfromtheearth,willdrawallmenuntomyself.'Maywe inclineourear,andcomeuntoYou;maywehear, thatoursoulsmaylive;andmakewithusaneverlastingcovenant,evenYoursuremercies.Drawus,webeseechYou,bythebondsofaliving faith to the cross; and may we ever dwell beneath itspeaceful,refreshing,and life-givingshadow.Filloursoulswithspirituallightandcomfort;sanctifyuswithYourblood;andgiveus Your Holy Spirit to abide with us forever. May we repair,withoutdelay, to thathealing fountainwhichhasbeenopenedto thehouseofDavid,andto the inhabitantsofJerusalem,forsinandforuncleanness.AndwhilerestingindevoutmeditationonCalvary,mayourheartsbepervadedwithYourlove,andourtonguesextoltherichesofYourredeemingblood.There,inthatsereneandsacredlightwhichbeamsaroundthebelievingsoul,maywe learnmuchof themysteryofYourboundlessgrace, inexpiringupontheCross,thatwemightbeembracedinthearmsofdivinemercy,andraisedfromthepitofthelost,tothethroneofheaven,toreignwithYouforeverandever.

There may we see the infinite evil of sin in Your death- howhighlydispleasingitisinthesightofGod.TheremayweseethatitwasoursinswhichprostratedYouinYourmysteriousagonyin the garden, and nailed You to the cross. Theremaywe seemercyandtruthmeetingtogether-righteousness lookingdownfromheaven-thelawhonored-justicesatisfied-manreclaimed,andgraceaboundingtotheverychiefofsinners.AndforbidthatweshouldtrampleunderfootYourpreciousblood,bywhichtheChurchhasbeenredeemed.May itbesprinkledonourhearts,so that the destroying angel will spare us in the day of divinewrath, when all the enemies of the Lord shall perish.MaywehaveasavinginterestinYoursufferingsanddeath.ClotheusinYour perfect righteousness; and may we rely with implicitconfidence on the infinite merits of Your atonement. Whilepassing through this valley of sin and sorrow,may we alwaysenjoythepreciousfruitsofYourredeeminglove;andwhenwepasstheriverofdeath,maywebearrayedintherobesofglory,

andforeverpartakeofthoseblessingswhicharethepurchaseofYourdeath, andwhich exceedall that the eyehas seen,or theear heard, or the heart conceived.With cheerful hopemaywenowapproachthegrave,praisingYoufordisarmingdeathofhisterrors, and for illuminating the dark valley by Your ownpassagethroughit.

Oh, may we spend our most delightful earthly moments incelebrating Your death, until we arrive at the realms ofeverlasting light,andpeace,andjoy,where,amidtheunfadingbeauties andpleasures of the heavenlyCanaan, You shall feedus,andleadusuntolivingfountainsofwaters-whilethearchesof heaven are ringing with the sweet notes of the song ofredemptiononCalvary:'UntoHimwholovedus,andwashedusfrom our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings andpriestsuntoGodandHisFather;toHimbegloryanddominionforeverandever!Amen.'

'CometoCalvary'sholymountain,Sinnersruinedbythefall;HereapureandhealingfountainFlowstoyou,tome,toall,Inafullperpetualtide,OpenedwhenourSaviordied.Comeinpovertyandsinfulness,Comedefiledwithout,within;Frominfectionanduncleanness,Fromtheleprosyofsin,Washyourrobes,andmakethemwhite:YoushallwalkwithGodinlight.Comeinsorrowandcontrition,Wounded,impotent,andblind;Heretheguilty,freeremission,Herethetroubled,peacemayfind;Healththisfountainwillrestore,Hethatdrinksshallthirstnomore.Hethatdrinksshallliveforever;

Itisasoul-renewingflood,Godisfaithful-GodwillneverBreakHiscovenantinblood;SignedwhenourRedeemerdied,SealedwhenHewasglorified.'

THESAVIOR'SDEATH

'LovelywasthedeathOfHimwhoselifewaslove!'

"I am the Living One; I WAS DEAD, and behold I am aliveforeverandever!AndIholdthekeysofdeathandHades."Rev.1:18

"Greaterlovehasnoonethanthis,thathelaydownhislifeforhisfriends."John15:13

"ButGodshowedhisgreat love forusbysendingChrist todieforuswhilewewerestillsinners."Romans5:8

'Oh, unspeakable love! Oh mercy inconceivable! Oh mostamazingcondescension! thatGod, for the sake ofman, shouldbemademan- thatGod, forman, shoulddie in the flesh- thatHeshouldsubmit'tobetemptedinallthingslikeasweare.'Seeathow inestimable apricemanwas redeemed-man,who hadenslavedhimselftothedevil;andhadhenotbeenransomedatso vast a price must unavoidably have suffered eternaldamnation.'-Augustine.

THESAVIORINHISDEATH.

OSaviorGod!OLambonceslain!AtthoughtofYou,Yourlove,Yourflowingblood,Allthoughtsdecay;allthingsrememberedfade;Allhopesreturn;allactionsdonebymenOrangels,disappear,absorbedandlost.'-Pollok

The trialandcondemnationofourblessedSaviorhavealreadybeenpresentedtoourview.WehavetracedHiswearyfootstepsfromthejudgmenthalltothesummitofCalvary.Wehaveseen

Himextendedonthecross.WehavelistenedtoHislastwords,andseenHimexpireamidtheconvulsionsofnature.Letusnowbehold Him taken from the cross, and enclosed in the silenttomb,while,atthesametime,weconsidersomeofthosegreatpracticaltruthsconnectedwithHisdeath.

THE BURIAL OF THE SAVIOR. It was a dark, melancholyperiodtothosedisciplesofJesus,whowereeyewitnessesofHiscrucifixion,whentheysawHimnailedtotheaccursedtree,andheardHisdyinggroansonCalvary.Whatextremesorrowmusthave filled their hearts during those solemn hours of Hissuffering, when even inanimate nature was giving signs ofsympathyandmourning-when the heavenswere clothedwithblackness,andwhentheearthtrembled.

When the multitude assembled on Calvary to witness thecrucifixionofChristhaddispersed, andwhen the eveninghadcome,thefewfaithfulfriendsofourLord,whowerespectatorsofHisdecease,couldnotendurethethoughtofleavingHimstillextended on the cross after death, as it was usual to do withthosewhowere crucified. Among that little band there was 'adiscipleofJews'moreboldthantherest,JosephofArimathea,whowenttoPilate,andaskedthathemaytakeawaythebodyofJesus forburial.Pilateat first doubtedwhetherChristwas yetdead,asinordinarycasesofcrucifixiondeathdidnottakeplaceinsoshortatime;butwhenhehadascertainedthecertaintyofHis death, he finally granted the earnest petition of Joseph.Preparation was now made for the interment of Jesus. Finelinenwasprocured,withmyrrhandaloestopurifyHisbody,'asthemanner of the Jews is to bury.' 'Joseph took thebody andwrapped it in a long linen cloth.He placed it in his own newtomb,whichhadbeencarvedoutof therock.Thenherolledagreatstoneacrosstheentranceasheleft.'

The lowest step in thehumiliationofourSaviorhasnowbeentaken.Clothedinthegarbsofdeath,Heislaidinthenewtombof Joseph, and the great stone is rolled to the door of the

sepulcher. Now is accomplished the prophecy of the Psalmist,'Youhavebroughtme into thedustofdeath.' ItwasonFridayevening that thebodyof Jesuswas committed to thegrave, inthepresenceofafewofHisdevotedfollowers.Afterthesolemnscenewasended,allappear tohaveretired fromthesepulcherexceptsomewomenwhohadfollowedtheSaviorfromGalilee.'Somewomenwere there,watching from a distance, includingMaryMagdalene,Mary(themotherofJamestheyoungerandofJoseph),andSalome.'Howmuchtobeadmiredis theconductof these pious women on that most sad, memorable, andimportant occasion. They still linger on Calvary after all themultitude,withfearfulhearts,hadreturned.Theycomenearthetomb, behold how the body of Christ is laid in it, and see thegreatstonerolledatthedoorofthesepulcher.Thoughallseemssadanddrearyaroundthatsacredmount,theystillwatchthereuntiltheshadowsofeveningbegintogatheroverthelandscape,andtorenderstillmoregloomythetombinwhichJesussleeps.They are the last at the sepulcher, manifesting their highestregardforthememoryofHimwhohadsofreelybestoweduponthem His pardoning mercy- who had sustained and soothedthemamidthetrialsandchangesofearth,andguidedtheminthe pathwhich leads to a bright and happyworld beyond thegrave.Atlength,leavingthesepulcher,theygotoprepare'spicesand ointment,' intending to return after the Sabbath for thepurposeofshowingmorerespecttotheirLordandMaster.

All this time the rulers of the Jews were not idle. Their rageagainsttheLord,andagainstHisAnointed,wasnotyetsatiated.Remembering that Christ had predicted His own resurrectionafter three days, and determined, if possible, to prevent itsaccomplishment, they go to Pilate, and ask that a guard ofsoldiersmaybe stationedoveragainstHis tomb.Theirwish isgranted.Pilatereplied,"Takeguardsandsecureitthebestyoucan."Sothey sealed the tombandpostedguards toprotect it.'The utmost precaution has now been taken by powerless andwickedmentooverthrowthedivinepredictionofHim,inwhosehands are the keys of hell and of death- ofHimwhom itwas

impossibleforthecordsofdeathtohold.Soonwasthatguardedsepulcher to burst open- soon was He who was 'crucified inweakness,'torise.by'thepowerofGod'-soonwasthatRomanguardtotremble,andfalltothegroundasdeadmen.Butbeforeweseethesepulcheropen,andtheSaviorriseindivinemajesty,letusconsiderHisdeath insomeof its importantrelations-asaccomplishing the grand designs of Jehovah respecting ourrace- as bringing peace, righteousness, and salvation to guilty,depraved, lost man, and glory to God in the highest- and asdisplaying the richness and marvelousness of the divinebenevolence.

PREDICTIONSCONCERNINGTHESAVIOR'SDEATH.Itwasby the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God thatChristwas taken, andbywickedhands crucified and slain.Hewhorulesoverall thingspreparedtheway for thisastonishingand solemn event, and in various waysmade it known to theworld long before it occurred. The law and the prophets haveparticularreferencetothedeathofJesus.ThePsalmsarefullofpredictions relating to His sufferings and death. The bleedingsacrifice on Jewish altars shadowed forth the great expiatorysacrifice, theLambofGod, thatwould, in the fullnessof time,takeawaythesinoftheworld.Thepaschallamb,thescapegoat,and the brazen serpent, all pointed to Christ, our Passover,extended on the cross, and slain for us. The whole MosaicdispensationhadrespecttoHisdeath,asthepropitiationforthesinsoftheworld.Itallforeshadowedthegreatmysteriouseventon Calvary. The law was a shadow of good things to comeconcerningChrist.

ScriptureprophecyhasclearlysetforthourSavior'sdeath,withthecircumstancesattendingit.OfHim,whowastobethegreatandgoodShepherdofIsrael,andwhowasto laydownHis lifeforHis flock, it was prophesied: 'Awake, O sword, againstmyShepherd,andagainstthemanwhoismyfellow,saystheLordofhosts;smitetheShepherd,andthesheepshallbescattered...'In that fearful night when Jesus was apprehended after His

agony inthegarden,HecalledtheattentionofHisdisciples totheaccomplishmentofthisremarkablepredictionofHisdeath."Tonight all of you will desertme," Jesus told them. "For theScriptures say, 'Godwill strike theShepherd, and the sheepoftheflockwillbescattered.'

HistrialandcondemnationwereclearlyforetoldbyIsaiah. 'Hewas taken from prison and from judgment: and who shalldeclareHisgeneration?forHewascutofffromthelandoftheliving: for the transgressionofmypeopleHewas stricken.'Hewasdragged fromGethsemane to thehouseof thehighpriest,and the judgment hall of Pilate, and, by a most unrighteoussentence,condemnedtodeath.TheverysufferingsHeendured,while undergoing the mockery of a trial before Caiaphas andPilate,areclearlybroughtbeforeourviewbythepropheticpenof Inspiration. 'I givemy back to those who beat me andmycheeks to those who pull out my beard. I do not hide fromshame,fortheymockmeandspitinmyface.'Thiswas'theverymanner in which our Savior was treated, as we have alreadyseen.Hewasmocked- buffeted- struck in the face- a crownofthornswasplaceduponHishead-andareedinHisrighthand.'AndtheyspituponHim,andtookthereed,andsmoteHimonthehead.'ItwasforetoldthatChristwouldbebruised,scourged,and pierced. 'ButHewas wounded for our transgressions,Hewasbruisedforouriniquities;thechastisementofourpeacewasuponHim;andwithHisstripeswearehealed.''Theypiercedmyhands andmy feet.' 'And they shall look uponmewhom theyhavepierced.'Wereadofthefulfillmentofthesepredictionsinthegospelnarrative.'ThenPilatetookJesus,andscourgedHim.''Oneof the soldiers,witha spear,piercedHis side.'His handsandfeetwerealsopiercedwithnails.

How vividly are the sufferings of our Savior on the crossrepresentedbythoseholymenofGod,whospokeastheyweremoved by the Holy Spirit! It was foretold that He would dieamongcriminals.'Hewasnumberedwiththetransgressors.''Hemade His grave with the wicked.' In fulfillment of this, the

Evangelists tell us that Christ was suspended on the crossbetween two thieves;while it is added, 'And the Scripturewasfulfilled, which says, And He was numbered with thetransgressors.'Accordingtoprophecy,Messiahwastobeburiedinthesepulcherofarichman.'WiththerichinHisdeath.'WehaveseenthatJesuswaslaidinthetombofJoseph,'arichmanofArimathea.'TheverypartingofHisgarmentwasforetoldbytheinspiredPsalmist.'Theypartmygarmentsamongthem,andcast lots upon my robe.' As the accomplishment of this, Ayeread, they 'parted His garments, casting lots.' It was foretold,thatamidallHissufferings,Hewastobereproached,taunted,andscornedbyHispersecutors;andtheverywordstheyweretouse in reproachingHim arementioned.But I am aworm andnotaman.Iamscornedanddespisedbyall!Everyonewhoseesmemocksme.Theysneerandshaketheirheads,saying,"IsthistheonewhoreliesontheLord?Thenlet theLordsavehim!Ifthe Lord loves him so much, let the Lord rescue him!" Howliterally was this fulfilled when our blessed Redeemer wasenduringthepainsofthecress,andthewrathofGodduetooursins, His persecutors still manifested their extreme enmitytowardsHim, exclaiming inderision- "And the people passingbyshoutedabuse,shakingtheirheadsinmockery."So!Youcandestroy the Temple and build it again in three days, can you?Well then, if you are the Son of God, save yourself and comedown from the cross!" The leading priests, the teachers ofreligious law, and the other leaders also mocked Jesus. "Hesavedothers," theyscoffed,"buthecan'tsavehimself!Sohe isthekingofIsrael,ishe?Lethimcomedownfromthecross,andwe will believe in him! He trusted God—let God show hisapprovalbydeliveringhim!Forhesaid,'IamtheSonofGod.'"

Itwasforetoldthat, inHisgreatthirst,vinegarandgallshouldbeofferedtoHim.'Theyputgallinmyfoodandgavemevinegarfor my thirst.' When Jesus was hanging on the cross,encompassedbyHispersecutors,wearetold,that'Immediatelyoneofthemranandgotasponge.Hefilleditwithwinevinegar,put it on a stick, and offered it to Jesus to drink.' The very

language that Messiah would use in His last moments, wasforetold in these remarkable words; 'My God, my God! Whyhaveyouforsakenme?Whydoyouremainsodistant?Whydoyouignoremycriesforhelp?'JustbeforetheSaviorexpiredonthe cross,weare toldby twoEvangelists, thatHe criedwith aloudvoice, 'MyGod,myGod,whyhaveYouforsakenme?'Theexact accomplishment of these striking predictions concerningthe death of our Lord and Savior, should confirm our faith inHis divine character, and lead us to rely with an unshakenedconfidence on His infinite merits for a happy and gloriousimmortality.Maythecheeringlightofthis'moresureofwordofprophecy',whichshines in thisworldofmoraldarkness, guideourwanderingstepstoHimwhoisthebrightandMorningStar-whose transcendent beauty, and excellency, and glory, will bethesublime,enrapturingthemeoftheheavenlythrongthroughalltheinnumerableagesofbliss.

THE SAVIOR'S DEATH WAS A MOST COSTLY SACRIFICE.What could be so costly as this- the shedding of the blood ofEmmanuel?Thiswastherichestgiftthatheavencouldconferonaworldoftransgressors.OfallthegiftsYourhandbestows,OhGiverofallgood,Notheavenitself,aricherknows,ThanmyRedeemer'sblood.

It is thepreciousbloodofChrist, streaming fromthecross,bywhich we are redeemed to God. 'You know that we were notredeemedwith corruptible things, as silver and gold; butwiththepreciousbloodofChrist,asofa lambwithoutblemishandwithout spot.'Howcostly is theprice of our redemption!Whocan estimate the value of this divine oblation? It is a sum toovastforhumancomputation.Itisofmatchlessworth!

Ifwewouldviewthissubjectinaproperlight,wemustconsiderthe infinite dignity and excellency of the Person of Christ, thedepthofHishumiliation,andtheoriginalcharacterofthosefor

whom He gave His life a ransom. While we think of Him aspossessingequalanduntoldglorywiththeFather,fromthedaysofeternity,wemustalso lookatHimcomingintotheworldtobepersecuted anddespised- to endurehardships, torture, andpain- to bemost truly aMan of sorrows and acquainted withgrief-tosufferandbleedinthegarden,andtoyieldHisbreathamidtheagoniesofacrucifixion.

Allthis,wemustremember,wasforapostateman–whoseheartisdeceitfulaboveall things,anddesperatelywicked.Thispricewasnotpaidfortheredemptionoffallenangels. 'ForverilyHetooknotonHimthenatureofangels;butHetookonHimtheseedofAbraham.'Andtheangelswhokeptnottheirfirstestate,but left their own habitation, He has reserved in everlastingchainsunderdarknessuntothejudgmentofthegreatday.'Howsignificantly does the apostle say; 'For you are bought with APRICE;' -a price infinitely costly and glorious! And well is itadded, inconsiderationof thismostcostlysacrifice, 'ThereforeglorifyGod in your body, and in your spirit,which areGod's.'Here is amostpowerful incentive todiligence and fervency intheChristian life- to leadus todevoteourselvesentirelytotheservice of Him who claims us as His own, and who hasransomeduswithsovastaprice. 'ForChrist'slovecompelsus,becauseweareconvincedthatonediedforall,andthereforealldied.Andhedied forall, that thosewho live shouldno longerlive for themselves but for him who died for them and wasraisedagain.'Shouldnotsuchaconsiderationasthisarouseusfromourdeep,spirituallethargy,andmakeusliveforGodandagloriousimmortality.

OChristian,whenyouthinkoftheinestimablepricewhichwaspaidforjourredemption,mayasongofpraiseascendfromyourinmost soul toHimwho has loved you, andwashed you fromyour sins inHis own precious blood. Unceasingly lift up yourhands to God, and bless His holy name for providing such asacrificeforoursins,evenHisonlybegottenSon,thebrightnessofHis glory, the express imageofHisPerson, theCreator and

Preserverof theuniverse.Adoringlywewouldwe saywith theapostle;'ThankGodforhisSon—agifttoowonderfulforwords!'Howalarminganddreadfulistheconditionofthosewholightlyesteem this costly sacrifice, since 'there remains no moresacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful looking for of judgmentand fiery indignation,which shalldevour theadversaries!'Thelast efficacious sacrifice for sin has been offered; when Christappearsagain,itwillbe'withoutsinuntosalvation.'Thenlearntoprizethissacrifice.Itistooprecioustoheslighted.FleetotheLamb of God. Take refuge in His atoning sacrifice; and thestormsofdivinevengeancewillneverbreakuponyou;forGodisnowpacifiedtowardsyoubythedeathofHisSon.

You,whoareinterestedinthedeathofJesus,lookupwardswithjoy and hope. The heavens are serene and smiling: no cloudsovercast the ski of yonder bright world to which you arehastening.JesushasmadepeacebythebloodofHiscross,andbrought us near to God, and to the eternal enjoyment of Hisfavor and love. In a little while, you, who are glorying in thiscostlysacrifice,willenterthegatesofthatCitywhichshineslikethesun,whosestreetsarepuregold,whosegatesarepearls,andwhose light is the glory of God and of the Lamb. '...yoursalvationwill come like the dawn.Yes, yourhealingwill comequickly.Your godlinesswill lead you forward, and the glory oftheLordwillprotectyoufrombehind.'

'NotallthebloodofbeastsOnJewishaltarsslainCouldgivetheguiltyconsciencepeaceOrwashawaythestain.ButChrist,theheavenlyLamb,Takesalloursinsaway;AsacrificeofnoblernameAndricherbloodthanthey.MyfaithwouldlayherhandOnthatdearheadofThine,While,likeapenitent,Istand,

Andthereconfessmysin.MysoullooksbacktoseeTheburdensYoudidbearWhenhangingonthecursedtree,Andhopesherguiltwasthere.Believing,werejoiceToseethecurseremove;WeblesstheLambwithcheerfulvoice,AndsingHisbleedinglove.'

THEDESIGNOFTHESAVIOR'SDEATH.Thegranddesignofthe Savior's death was the promotion of God's glory in thesalvationof countlessmultitudesof thehumanrace,whowereenthralledbythebondageofsin,Satan,andtheworld.Allthosesufferings of the blessed Jesus in the garden, in the judgmenthall,andonthecross,wereenduredforthisverypurpose,thatacomplete,glorious atonementmight bemade; thatmanmightbereconciledtoGod,savedfromsin,deliveredfromthewrathtocome,sanctifiedthroughthetruth,andfinallybroughthometothemansionsofglory.AndassoonasthedeathofChristwasaccomplished, the anger of God was turned away from us,becauseHis justicewas satisfied, the lawmagnified andmadehonorable, and an acceptable sacrifice offered for sin. ThedesignofChrist'sdeathisaglorious,refreshingtheme,onwhichwewoulddwellmoreparticularly.

THESAVIORDIEDTOMAKEATONEMENTFORSIN.ThisisthegranddoctrineofChristianity- the foundationonwhichallourhopesof futurefelicityareestablished-theprinciplewhichsustainsusamidallthetrialsoflife,andwhichcheersusintheeveningofourearthlypilgrimage,whenthesoulisabouttopasstotheshoresofaneternalworld,andtoappearbeforethebarofGod.Nothingcanbemoreanimatingtotheawakened,anxious,tremblingsinner,thanthedivinedeclaration,thatJesusdiedtosave him: and for the consolation of all such, this doctrine isexhibited in theclearest light throughout theScriptures. 'For Idelivered unto you first of all, thatwhich I also received, how

thatChristdiedforoursins,accordingtotheScriptures.''Forinthat He died, He died unto sin once.' 'For when we were yetwithoutstrength, induetimeChristdiedfortheungodly.' 'ButnowonceattheendoftheworldHehasappearedtoputawaysinbythesacrificeofHimself.' 'ForevenChristourPassoverissacrificed for us.' 'By His death He has finished thetransgression, andmadeanendof sin.' 'WhogaveHimself forour sins.' How wonderful that Christ the eternal Son of God,should thus voluntarily give Himself up to sufferings and todeath,tomakeatonementforsin!

O my soul, attentively consider this most astonishing andmysterious event- Jesus, the brightness of the Father's glory,giving Himself for sin! May this blessed truth dwell in everyheart, and its praises be uttered by every tongue. Let us evermagnifytherichesofthisgrace.IftheRedeemerhadnotdiedtosave us,whatwould have been our future destiny?Would notthe redemption of our souls have ceased forever? Who couldhavesavedusifJesushadnotleftHisthrone,tobringsalvationtous?

THE SAVIOR DIED TO RECONCILE US TO GOD. 'And you,thatwere once alienated and enemies in yourmindbywickedworks, yet now has He reconciled, in the body of His fleshthrough death, to present you holy, and unblameable, andunreprovable in His sight.' Man was originally at peace withGod;forhewascreatedinholinessandhappiness;butwhensinentered thegardenofEden,his careerof rebellionandenmitycommenced.Andsincethatsadhour,thewholeworldhasbeenlyinginwickedness-farfromGod,throughenmityagainstHim.HowastonishingthatthemindofmanshouldbefilledwithsuchinveterateenmityagainstitsblessedCreator-thatitshouldhateHis holy and righteous law; slight the only remedy for all ourspiritualdisease,theGospelofHisSon;delightinthatwhichisimpureandodiousinthesightofheaven-lovetheheavyburdenof sin; and take pleasure in provoking God to anger by allmannerofwickedworks!'Hear,Oheavens!Listen,Oearth!This

iswhattheLordsays:"ThechildrenIraisedandcaredforhaverebelledagainstme!" 'Theheavensareshockedatsucha thingandshrinkbackinhorroranddismay,saystheLord.'

Itis,indeed,asadtruth,thatmanhasraisedtheflagofrebellionagainst heaven- that his mind, in a state of nature, is enmityitselfagainst the everblessedGod. 'The carnalmind is enmityagainstGodforitisnotsubjecttothelawofGod,neitherindeedcan be.' Every unrenewed man hates God, the most excellentand glorious Being, the Fountain of all light, and life, andfelicity,theKingeternal,immortal,invisible,theonlywiseGod.Hedoesnot love to thinkof thenatureof thatBeingwho isofpurereyesthantobeholdevil,andwhocannotlookoniniquity.Godisnotinallhisthoughts.ThelanguageofdepravedheartstoGodis,"...theysaytoGod,'Goaway.Wewantnopartofyouandyourways.Who is theAlmighty, andwhy shouldweobeyhim?'Job21:14-15.

Now, to bring the wicked, and rebellious heart of man into astate of reconciliation with God, our blessed Savior assumedhumanity,andpouredoutHispreciousblooduponthecross.Bythis costly sacrifice the glorious work was accomplished: andnow,'You,whooncewerefaroff,aremadenearbythebloodofChrist.' In His death He effected, in a most wonderful andmysteriousmanner, our reconciliation toGod. 'Whenwewereenemies,wewere reconciled to God by the death ofHis Son.''AndallthingsareofGod,whohasreconciledustoHimselfbyJesusChrist,andhasgiventoustheministryofreconciliation.'In thestrikingandexpressivewordsofBunyan, 'Is this indeedthe truth of God, that Christ wasmade to be sin forme?wasmadethecurseofGodforme?HasHeindeedborneallmysins,and spilt His blood for my redemption! O blessed tidings! Owelcomegrace!''BlesstheLord,Omysoul,andallthatiswithinme,blessHisholyname.'Nowhaspeacecome;nowthefaceofheaven is altered: "Behold, all things have become new." NowthesinnercanabideGod'spresence,yes,seesunutterablegloryandbeautyinHim.

This is the glory of the great reconciling work on Calvary– itbringsusneartoGod.ItbringsusintoastateoffriendshipwiththeFatherofspirits-astateinwhichthebeliever,evenoilearth,isfilledwiththepeaceofGod,whichpassesallunderstanding;while,atthesametime,heispreparedforthehighestpleasures,the purest joys, and the most enrapturing scenes in heaven.Whatperennialstreamsofpleasure,arisingfromaninterest inthisdivinereconciliation,willflowtothosewhohaveovercomethroughthebloodofthecross,whentheyaremadepillarsinthetempleofGod, togonomoreout-whenfromthemansionsoftheblessed, it shall be proclaimed: 'I heard a loud shout fromthe throne, saying, "Look, the home ofGod is now among hispeople!Hewilllivewiththem,andtheywillbehispeople.Godhimselfwillbewith them.Hewill removeall of their sorrows,andtherewillbenomoredeathorsorroworcryingorpain.Fortheoldworldanditsevilsaregoneforever."

Through eternity itwill be amatter of the greatestwonder, aswellasthesweetestandmostsublimesong,thatthegreatGod,thehighandloftyOnewhoinhabitseternity-whomwehadbywickedworks sohighly offended- should ever have 'reconciledustoHimselfbyJesusChrist;'andcondescendedtodwellwithuswhowereoncesovile,andrebellious,andwretched.Oh,thedepthoftherichesofthemercyofGod!-amercysurpassingallwonders-boundlessastheheavens-vastaseternity.WillGodinvery deed dwell with man reconciled to Him by a sufferingSavior? Yes, He will. By this 'new and living way' ofreconciliation,wemaycometoHim,anddwellinHispresence,whereisfullnessofjoy,andpleasuresforevermore.'GlorytoGodinheavenabove,Onearthsweetpeaceandsacredlove;Goodwilltomen-thefoeisfoiled,AndGodandsinnersreconciled.'

AreWE reconciled toGodby thedeathofHisSon?AreweatpeacewithHeaventhroughthebloodofthecross?IsGodinall

our thoughts? Is Jesus precious to us? Arewe renewed in thespiritofourmind?DowedelightinthethingsofGod?Areouraffectionselevatedfaraboveearthlyobjects?DotheycenterontheSavior,andonspiritual,heavenly,andeternalthings?Ifso,thenwearereconciledtoGod.ThenisGodpacifiedtowardsus.Mostdesirableandhappystate,tobereconciledtoGod!But,ontheotherhand,arewestillalienated fromthe lifeofGod-stillwithoutGod,andwithouthopeintheworld-still inthegallofbitternessandbondofiniquity?Dowesetourmindsonearthlythings,andclingtothemwithanunrelentinggrasp?DowestillforgetGod,andheaven,andeternity?ThisistobeunreconciledtoGod. And how fearful is such a state, especially in a day ofgospel reconciliation!Whatwillbecomeofuswho reject thosegracious terms of peace- this last reconciliation- and put thegrace ofGod far fromourselves? IfGod is unreconciled to us,whowillsustainusamidthetrialsandconflictsofearth?Whowill 'speak peace' to our soul when about to embark on theboundlessoceanofeternity?Whowillsmoothourdyingpillow,andpointustoablessedrestbeyondthegrave?Whowillopento us the gates of the celestial city, that wemay enter in, andwalkitsgoldenstreets?Howcanweappearbeforethetribunalof our unreconciled Judge to answer for the innumerabletransgressions of our lives?How canwe listen toHis just andirrevocablesentenceofcondemnation?

While you still linger on the borders of the ocean of eternity-whileGodisyetwaitingtobegracious,whilethebloodofJesusyetspeakspeacetoyoursoul,webeseechyoutobereconciledtoGod.Make peace with Him through faith in Christ. 'Acquaintyourself now with Him, and be at peace: thereby good shallcomeuntoyou.''OSavior;mayweneverrestTillYouareformedwithin;TillYouhavecalmedourtroubledbreast,Andcrushedthepowerofsin.Oh,maywegazeuponYourcross,Untilthewondroussight

Makesearthlytreasuresseembutdross,Andearthlysorrowslight.Untilreleasedfromcarnalties,Ourspiritupwardssprings;Andseestruepeaceabovetheskies,Truejoyinheavenlythings.There,aswegaze,maywebecomeUnited,Lord,toThee;Andinafairer,happierhomeYourperfectbeautysee.'

THESAVIORDIEDTODELIVERUSFROMTHEWRATHTOCOME.'EvenJesus,whodeliveredusfromthewrathtocome.''ForGodhasnotappointedustowrath,buttoobtainsalvationbyourLordJesusChrist,whodiedforus,that,whetherwewakeorsleep,weshouldlivetogetherwithHim.'Whenmansinned,hebecameexposed to the fiercewrathofGod. 'Forbecauseofthese things the wrath of God comes upon the children ofdisobedience.'Ofeveryunbeliever it is said, 'ThewrathofGodabidesonhim.'Butwhocandescribe thiswrath?Whocan tellhowterribleitis?IntheScriptureitisspokenofasa'wormthatnever dies' 'a lake which burns with fire and brimstone' 'thefiercewrathofGod''everlastingpunishment.'

Now, from all this wrath, Jesus by His death on the crossdeliversus.Howcheeringtotheawakenedandanxioussinneristhe glorious announcement which the gospel makes! Oh thesacredpagethisprecioustruthismostconspicuouslyexhibited–thatJesusenduredtheweightofdivinewrathduetousforsin.Yes,inHisunparalleledlove,Hesustainedthedreadfulloadinourplace,andbyHisownblooddischargedthemightysumofhumanguilt!'Muchmorethen,beingnowjustifiedbyHisblood,weshallbesavedfromwraththroughHim.'

ThedeathofChristworksforusacompletedeliverancefrontallthepenalconsequencesofsinintheworldtocome.'WhoisHethat condemns? It is Christwho died, yes, rather that is risen

again, who is at the right hand of God, who also makesintercession for us.' God, inHis incomparable benevolence, isnow saying to every onewho is interested in the death ofHisSon- 'For a smallmomenthave I forsaken you, butwith greatmercieswillIgatheryou.InalittlewrathIhidmyfacefromyouforamoment;butwith everlasting kindnesswill I havemercyonyou,saystheLordyourRedeemer.'

How great should be our gratitude toHim, who by the costlypriceofHisbloodhasransomedusfromaneternityofwoe.Aswejourneythroughlife,weshouldblessGodeverydayforHisboundlessmercy in the gift of His Son to us sinners: and weshould ever adore the Savior for His sacrificial offering toappease thewrath of offendedHeaven.We should continuallyrejoiceinGodourSavior.'Andnotonlyso,butwealsorejoiceinGod, through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have nowreceivedtheatonement.'

Whatexercisesodelightful,inaworldwheresinhasabounded,asrecordingtherichgraceofourGod,andchantingthepraisesof the sinner's Friend! May we never cease, while passingthrough thewilderness of earth, to extol in sweetest songs thewondersofredeeminglove!Andwhenthedarknessofmortalityispast,mayitbeourblissfulemploymentinthatbrighttemplebeyondtheskies,thehomeofthesaints,toraiseanever-endingsongtotheLamb that sitsupon the throne. 'Bless theLord,Omysoul:andallthatiswithinme,blessHisholyname.BlesstheLord,Omysoul,anddonotforgetallHisbenefits:whoforgivesall your iniquities; who heals all your diseases, who redeemsyour life from destruction; who crowns you with loving-kindnessandtendermercies.''BlesstheLord,mysoul,andsingUnceasingpraisestoYourKing,WhoselovethroughallHiscounselsshines,Transcendent,matchless,anddivine.'

OhgreatandmercifulDeliverer,whodied to saveus from the

pains of hell, we adore Your holy name, and magnify Yourwondrous grace.We praise You for assuming our nature, andsustainingthedreadfulloadofdivinevengeance,whenwewerewithoutstrengthtobearit.WethankYouformakingYoursoulanofferingforsininourstead,anddeliveringusfromthewrathtocome.'WhatthanksIoweYou,andwhatlove;Aboundless,endlessstore;Shallechothroughtherealmsabove,Whentimeshallbenomore.'

BeforethestormcomesletusfastentoHimwhocametosave:letusbuildourhopesofeternalfelicityonChristalone;forHeistheonlysure,immovablefoundation.'Forotherfoundationcannomanlaythanthat is laid,which isJesusChrist.' InHimwearesafe-safeamidthestormsoftime,andtheflamesofthelastgreatdayofwrath-safethroughallthecirclingyearsofeternity.Thestormmaycome-thewindsmayblow-thewavesmaydash-the rain may descend- but in Christ we will stand unmoved,whilethewickedfallaroundus;forwearefixedontheRockofAges,againstwhichnopower isabletoprevail.Weareupheldbythosehandswhichhavestretchedouttheheavens,andfromwhich no one on earth or hell is able to cast us down. 'In theLordJehovahistheRockofAges.''Andamanshallbeahiding-placefromthewind,andacovertfromthetempest;asriversofwater in adryplace, as the shadowof a great rock in awearyland.'

THESAVIORDIEDTOOBTAINETERNALSALVATIONFORUS.ByHisobedience,sufferings,anddeath,hehasbecome'theauthor of eternal salvation unto all those who obey Him.''Havingobtainedeternalredemptionforus.'AllthefelicitiestheredeemedshallenjoythroughtheagesofimmortalitywillcomefromthefruitsofHisdeath.'TheselivelyhopesweoweToJesus'dyinglove;WewouldadoreHisbracebelow,

AndsingHispowerabove.'

Who can tell what those heavenly felicities are, which ourblessedLordandSaviorhasobtainedforus?Cananyonehaveaproper conception of the glory of Heaven? No. It is a blissbeyondallthought;itisdeclaredthateyehasnotseen,norearheard, neither have entered into the heart of men, the thingswhichGodhaspreparedforthosewholoveHim.'Itisafarmoreexceedingandeternalweightofglory,incomparisonwithwhichthe 'splendor of earth' is but a fading flower- a shadowwhichpassesquicklyaway.GreatindeedisthatsalvationwhichJesus,byHisagonyanddeath,hasprocured forus.Unspeakable aretheblessingsitbringstotheredeemedinthemansionsabove.

It includes a deliverance from all condemnation- brings thebeliever under the shadow of the tree of life in the midst ofParadise-supplieshimwiththehiddenmanna-conductshimtoliving fountains of waters- invests him with the robe ofrighteousness-placesuponhisheadacrownwhichneverfades,and fills him with joys which never end. It includes themostsweet,intimate,andlastingcommunionwithatriuneGod-withtheholyangels-withthegreatandgoodofeveryageandnation,that innumerable company who have been redeemed by theblood of Christ. It delivers him from all the ills of the presentlife.Inyonbright-walledcityoftheNewJerusalem,therearenostorms-noconflicts-nodarkness-nosickness-nodeath.Therethe Sun of Righteousness is always shining in meridiansplendor–andunderHis beams all is joy and gladness. ThereJesus, in His own glorified humanity, will lead His ransomedones to fountains of immortal bliss; and with a gentle hand,wipeawayalltearsfromtheireyes.Yes,HisownsofthandshallwipethetearsFromeveryweepingeye,Andpains,andgroans,andgriefs,andfears,Anddeathitselfshalldie.'BytheexpiatorysacrificeofHimself,ourblessedSaviorhasnotonly obtained eternal glory for us, but as the Captain of our

salvation,Hewillfinallyconductusintothe 'inheritanceofthepurchased possession,' where we shall ever remain asmonuments to the praise of the glory of His grace. And howconsoling to the afflicted child of God is the thought that hiseternalsalvationisnear-sonearthatthereisbutastepbetweenhimandthefelicitiesofheaven.Thegloryoftheupperworldisready to be revealed to us. 'Now is our salvation nearer thanwhen we believed.' The night is almost passed. The day is athand. TheMorning Star appears. In a little while, the Sun ofRighteousnesswill risewithHis effulgent beams, and shine inthosenewheavens,whereinrighteousnessdwells, rejoicing thecountlessmultitudesofglorifiedsaints.

Christian pilgrim,when yourmomentary existence on earth ispassed,youwill experienceall theblessingsof that eternal lifewhich Jesus gives. And how swiftly is time passing over you,bearing you onward and upward to the land of pleasure, rest,andpraise.Alreadyyoumaybedrinkingyourlastcupofearthlysorrow. Already your last conflict may have commenced. Youmaybereadytofinishyourcoursewithjoy-readytodepart inpeace and triumph, to receive the crown of righteousness inheaven.GodmaybenowsendingforthsomeangelicmessengertocarryyourhappyspirittoAbraham'sbosom;andyoumayhejust ready to say to yourweeping friends- I amgoinghome tomy mansion in the skies, to be clothed with the garments ofsalvation, and to drink at the fountain of living waters. I amgoinghome toJesus,myelderBrother,myeverlastingFriend,mySavior,myGod.Iamgoinghometomeetthosedearfriends,who have gone before me to the saints' rest, and to join theinnumerable company of angels, and the redeemed, incelebrating thewonders ofCalvary- theunsearchable riches ofChrist. In that heavenly home, I shall enjoy, through anuncloudedday, theblessingsof eternal salvationpurchasedbytheRedeemeronthecross.Evenso,come,LordJesus.

'Whatreasonhavewe torejoicenow,whenwethinkhowneareternity is,andhowshort the journey through thiswilderness,

andthatitisbutastepfromearthtoheaven.Withjoy,then,letuslookupwardstotheeverlastinghills-tothecityofthelivingGod,theheavenlyJerusalem;forour'redemptiondrawsnear.'

'Awake,yousaints,andraiseyoureyes,Andraiseyourvoiceshigh;Awake,andpraisethatsovereignlove,Thatshowssalvationnigh.Onallthewingsoftimeitflies,Eachmomentbringsitnear;Thenwelcomeeachdecliningday!Welcomeeachclosingyear!Notmanyyearstheirroundsshallrun,Normanymorningsrise,BeforeallitsgloriesstandrevealedToouradmiringeyes.Youwheelsofnature,speedyourcourse;Youmortalpowers,decay;Fastasyoubringthenightofdeath,YoubringEternalDay.'

THE SAVIOR'S DEATH WAS NECESSARY FOR OURSALVATION. It was necessary to carry into effect the eternalcounselofGod.'ButyoufollowedGod'sprearrangedplan.Withthe help of lawless Gentiles, you nailed him to the cross andmurderedhim.''Thatiswhathashappenedhereinthiscity!ForHerod Antipas, Pontius Pilate the governor, the Gentiles, andthe people of Israel were all united against Jesus, your holyservant, whom you anointed. In fact, everything they didoccurredaccordingtoyoureternalwillandplan.'ThesufferingsanddeathofJesuswereonlytheaccomplishmentofthatgrandschemeofredemption,devisedintheagesofeternitybyGodtheFather.When, in the fullness of time, theSonofGod came toexecute His mediatorial office, every pain he endured, everygroanHeuttered,every torture thatwas inflictedonHim,waslaidout,forHimbytheeternalFather.Allwasnecessary.

Hisdeathwasnecessaryfortheexpiationofsin.IfHehadnotcondescendedtosuffer,andbleed,anddie,thegatesofParadisemusthaveremainedforeverclosedagainst thesinner,andoneuniversalwailofdespairascendedfromthehumanrace.Inthegospeldispensation,bloodmustbeshedbeforethesinnercouldberedeemedtoGod.Withoutsheddingofbloodisnoremission.Mark how emphatic is the language- 'no remission.' But thebloodwhich flowed on Jewish altars could not take away sin.'For it was not possible that the blood of bulls and of goatsshouldtakeawaysins.''Neitherbythebloodofgoatsandcalves,but by His own blood, He entered once into the holy place,havingobtainedeternalredemptionforus.'NowwhenthebloodofChristwaspouredoutonCalvary,we,whowereafarofffromGodandglory,werebroughtneartoHiminwhosefavorislife,andinwhosepresenceisfullnessofjoy.Delightfulthought!

While with wonder and gratitude we think of the stupendousworkofredeemingman,amessagemostwelcomeandcheeringcomestous throughtherevelationwhichhasbeenmade fromheaven.Itisthesongofsalvation.Itisthegospelsound.Itisthevoice of God, proclaiming pardon and peace to a lost worldthroughthesheddingofthebloodofChrist.Listentoit,youwhoarereadytosay,Thereisnohope,andtoliedowninsorrowanddespair-"Comfort, comfortmypeople," says yourGod. "Speaktenderly toJerusalem.Tellher thather saddaysaregoneandthat her sins are pardoned. Yes, theLord has punished her infull for all her sins." Here, we have the greatest cause foradmiration, gratitude, and praise. How can we sufficientlyadmirethematchless grace of ourRedeemer in interposing inourbehalf,andsavingusbythesheddingofHisblood!Howcanweadequatelyexpressourgratitude toHimfor favorssogreatanddivine! Shouldwenot praiseHim forever? Shouldwenotadopt the beautiful language of the Psalmist: 'Iwill extol You,myGod,OKing; and Iwill blessYourname forever andever.EverydaywillIblessYou;andIwillpraiseYournameforeverandever!'ShouldnotourlovetowardsHimconstantlyincrease,aswejourneythroughlife,untilitburnswithseraphicardorin

thecourtsabove?

'Praise,then,Hisgloriousname,PublishHisexaltedfame!StillHisworthyourpraiseexceeds,ExcellentareallHisdeeds.Praiseagainthejoyfulsound,Letthenationsrollitround!Zion,shout,forthisisHe,GodtheSaviordwellsinthee.'

O divine Savior, whose blood streamed from the cross, tocleanse us from the defilement of sin, and to open theeverlasting doors of glory for us, inspire uswith the strongestlove to You for that most marvelous display of Yourcondescensionandbenevolence.FilloursoulswithtransportingviewsofthegloryofCalvary.Mayweseethepreciousnessofthebloodofthecross,itssuitablenesstoourneed,andthenecessityof its being shed, to bring us back to God and to the joys ofParadise. May we have redemption through Your blood,obtainingtheforgivenessofalloursins,accordingtotherichesofYourgrace.Maywegoonourway rejoicing in a reconciledGod,andmakingmentionofYourrighteousness,ofYoursonly;andwhenwecometocontendwiththelastenemy,evendeath,the sting of which is sin, may Your blood speak peace to ourdeparting souls, still every tempest that may arise within us,silenceallouraccusers,andcauseustorejoicewithunspeakablejoy as we pass the valley of mortality to awaken amid therealitiesofeternalscenes.

Itwas necessary that the Savior should become obedient untodeath,beforeHeentereduponHis stateof glorificationasourMediator at the right hand of God, for He 'could not have amediatorialgloryuntilHehadofferedHismediatorialsacrifice.'ThisisstronglysetforthbytheSaviorHimself,inHisbeautifuland expressive discourse to the two disciples on their way toEmmaus.'OughtnotChristtohavesufferedthesethings,andto

enter into His glory?' Before He would be exalted to thoserealmsofbliss,whereHenowswaysthescepteroftheuniverse,Hemustendurethebitterestsorrow,andtorture,andpain,andagony. Hemust be buffeted, spit upon, reviled, crownedwiththorns,nailed to thecross,assailedby thepowersofdarkness,forsakenbyGodtheFather,andlefttoexpireintheagoniesofanaccurseddeath.

Here,then,isthegrandfoundationofHisexaltation,aswellasourownfuturehappiness-HissufferingthosethingswhichwerenecessaryforHimtosuffer, to fulfillall thattheprophetshavespokenofHisobedienceuntodeath.FromtheloweststepinHishumiliationandsuffering,Herisestothehighestseat inglory.'Heshalldrinkofthebrookintheway:thereforeshallHeliftupthe head.' When He 'purged our sins' by His sufferings anddeath, the 'everlasting doors' of heavenwere opened forHim;and,as theKingofglory,Hehasenteredandsatdownon theright hand of the Majesty on high.' Most highly did God theFather exaltHim.Most gloriouslywasHe recompensed,whenby His own blood He entered into heaven, to appear in thepresenceofGodforus.AstherewardofHisatoningwork,GodreceivedHim back to glory,madeHim Lord both of the deadandliving,andgaveHimdominionoverall things. 'WhereforeGodalsohashighlyexaltedHim,andgivenHimanamewhichisaboveeveryname:thatatthenameofJesuseverykneeshallbow,ofthingsinheaven,andthingsinearth,andthingsundertheearth;andevery tongueshouldconfess thatJesusChrist isLord, to the glory ofGod theFather.' 'Nowwe see Jesus,whowasmadealittlelowerthantheangelsforthesufferingofdeath,crownedwithgloryandhonor.'

GloriousRedeemer,fromthosemansionsofbliss,whereYouarenowclothedindivinemajestyandmightypower,stoopdowninpityandcompassionuponuspilgrimsinalandofdarkness,inavaleof tears, inthevalleyof theshadowofdeath.OYou,who,amidscenesofextremesorrow,walkedthisgloomypathwaytothat brightworld onhigh,we beseechYou to nerve our feeble

armforenduringthetribulationsoftheworld;supportusinthedarkesthourofadversity, andamid the fiercestassaultsof thefoesofoursalvation.Whileonearth,Yousympathizedwiththesonsanddaughtersofaffliction,andnow ingloryYouarestilltouchedwith thememoryof ourwoes.May this considerationanimateusamidthemostpainfulvicissitudesandafflictionsoftime.May we also see that You, the Captain of our salvation,were'madeperfectthroughsufferings,'andforthesakeofthesesufferings, exalted in the heavenly places to a throne and ascepterwhichwillendureforever.

And may we see that 'much tribulation' on earth is alsonecessary to make us perfect, and to prepare us for enteringuponthesaints'everlastingrest.WhatwemostimploreisYourstrengthandgraciouspresence'inthefires,'and'inthewaters.'OblessedSavior,bewithus inall thesufferingsofourearthlycourse; andwhen the last battle is fought, and the last enemyconquered,grantthatwe,havingovercomethroughYourblood,maysitwithYouonYour throne, evenasYouhaveovercome,andaresatdownwithYourFatheronHisthrone.

THE SAVIOR HIS DEATH HAS MANIFESTED THEGREATEST LOVE TO MANKIND. 'Greater love has no manthanthis,thatamanlaydownhislifeforhisfriends.''Now,nooneislikelytodieforagoodperson,thoughsomeonemightbewilling to die for a person who is especially good. But GodshowedhisgreatloveforusbysendingChristtodieforuswhilewewere still sinners.' Here is indeed unexampled love. ChristdiednotonlyforHisfriends,butforHisenemies.Here is lovewhose vastness cannot be told- which passes all knowledge-whichfillsthemindwithwonderandjoy.WhatamazingloveishereseeninthesufferingsanddeathoftheSavior!TheeternalSon of God agonizing for us in Gethsemane and on Calvary-pouring out His blood for the remission of our sins! Surely,thereneverbeforewassuchamanifestationoflovetothesonsofmen.HowgreatmustbethatlovewhichbroughtEmmanuelfrom the heights of glory to the depths of suffering, from a

throne of felicity, to endure the death of the cross! We maysoonerfathomthedeepestocean,ormeasurethedimensionsofearth, or scan the height of heaven, than comprehend thevastness of the redeeming love of Jesus. 'You see in Him anoceanof lovewithoutbottom,withoutbounds,overflowingthebanksofheaven,streamingdownuponthispoorworldtowashaway the vileness ofman! It is an oceanwe cannot fathom it.The best act of our souls towards Christ's love is admiration,astonishing admiration, until the heart is quite overwhelmedwith it- until our thoughts andunderstandings are, as itwere,lost: the soul is taken out of itself, and laid in the dust asnothing, to be swallowed up in a holy contemplation of theunspeakable,inconceivableloveofJesusChrist.'(Owen)

Withallthebrightestdiscoverieswecanmakeofthislove,itisbutcomparativelylittleweknowofitsnatureandvastnessthissidethegrave.Ithasaheighttowhichnointelligencecansoar,adepthwhichnoonecanfathom,abreadthandlengthwhichcannever be measured. Here let us pause, and exclaim withastonishment and admiration, when we consider the ways ofGodtoman."Oh,whatawonderfulGodwehave!Howgreatarehisrichesandwisdomandknowledge!Howimpossibleitisforus to understand his decisions and hismethods! Forwho canknowwhat theLord is thinking?Whoknowsenough tobehiscounselor?Andwhocouldevergivehimsomuchthathewouldhavetopayitback?Foreverythingcomesfromhim;everythingexistsbyhispowerandisintendedforhisglory.Tohimbegloryevermore.Amen.

'AndtoknowtheloveofChrist,whichpassesknowledge!''Olovedivine!-harp,liftupyourvoiceonhigh!Shout,angels!shoutaloud,yousonsofmen!Andburn,myheart,withtheeternalflame!Mylyre;beeloquentwithendlesspraise!Olovedivine!immeasurablelove!Stoopingfromheaventoearth,fromearthtohell,Withoutbeginning,endless,boundlesslove!

Aboveallasking,givingfar,tothoseWhonothingdeserved,whonothingdeservedbutdeath.Savingthevilest!savingme!OloveDivine!'

Invainwillwesearchforlanguagetoexpressthemagnitudeofthisdivine love. Ithasa lengthwhichreaches fromeverlastingto everlasting; a breadth that encompasses every intelligenceand every interest; a depth which reaches the lowest state ofhumandegradationandmisery;andaheightthatthrowsfloodsof glory on the throne and crown of Jehovah. A glory beamsfrom the Savior's love, which enkindles holy rapture in themindsoftheheavenlyhost,andgivesrisetothesweetestsongsofParadise.Yes–'ThissubjectfillsthestarryplainsWithwonder,joy,andlove;AndfurnishesthenobleststrainsForalltheharpsabove.'

Can the loftiest seraph that adores in the presence of Jehovahfathom the depth of this love? No! It is a mystery which theminds of men and angels cannot fully unravel- a theme thecontemplationofwhichwilleverpournewraysofgloryintothenoblestintellectsonhigh,whilethismightysubjectwillremainunexhausted through the ages of bliss. "Can you solve themysteriesofGod?CanyoudiscovereverythingthereistoknowabouttheAlmighty?Suchknowledgeishigherthantheheavens—butwhoareyou?Itisdeeperthantheunderworld—whatcanyouknowincomparisontohim?Itisbroaderthantheearthandwiderthanthesea."

Ifwewould learn somethingof its vastness,wemust considerthe character and dignity ofHim bywhom it wasmanifested.Had one of those holy angelswhominister in the presence ofGod on high clothed himself with garments of humanity, andamidthemostintenseandindescribablesufferings,finishedhisearthlycourseonacross,forthepurposeofredeemingaraceofsinnersfromeverlastingdestruction;howimmeasurablewould

have been the benevolence displayed in such a condescendingact? It must have filled us with amazement, and excited thestrongest feelings of gratitude. But how shall we express ouradmirationandpraise,whenweseeHimwhomseraphimadore,stoopingfromheaventoearth,toencirclethevileinthearmsofHis mercy; when we see Him, who is infinite in power, andmajesty,andriches,andglory,voluntarilyplacingHimselfintheroomof rebels on earth;whenwe see Jesus, the brightness ofHis Father's glory, stretched upon the cross, racked with themost intensepainofbody,andsoul,andsufferingforsins, thejustfortheunjust,thatHemightbringustoGod!

HowamazingthatHe,who,byHisinfinitepower,couldhaveatonce annihilated our rebellious race, or consigned us toeverlastingpunishment,should, foraseason,divestHimselfofHis heavenly glory, visit earth, stoop so low in humiliation,become so poor, suffer so much, endure such a shameful,painful, and accursed death, for the purpose of making useternally rich,holy, andhappy in theParadiseofGod!Here isthe most sublime exhibition of the marvelous grace of ourblessedLordandSaviortowardsussinners. 'ForyouknowthegraceofourLordJesusChrist,thatthoughHewasrich,yetforyoursakesHebecamepoor,thatyouthroughHispovertymightberich.

ThecontemplationoftheSavior'sloveinhisdeath,fillsallholyminds with a delight which the men of the world neverexperience. It is a stream of pleasure which will ever flow torefreshthepioussoul,andtofillitwithrapturousjoy.OnearthitistheChristian'sdailythemeofcontemplation,andinheavenitwillbehisunceasingsong.Hereonearth,weknowbutlittleofits origin, its effects, and its fruits; there, with angels and theredeemedwe shall continually study its dimensions, and learnmuchofitsgreatnessandincomparableexcellence.Here,weseeit as through a glass darkly ; there, we shall view it in thebrightnessofheaven'slight.Here,weonlytasteofthestreamoflove; there, we shall freely drink at the never-failing fountain,

whiletheceaselessagesofgloryarerevolving.

The dying love of the Savior! What glory will it bring to theredeemed in those blissful realms beyond the Skies! Lookforwardtothatsolemnperiodwhentheheavenlyinvitationhasbeengiventotherighteous: 'Come,youwhoareblessedbymyFather, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from thefoundationoftheworld.'ThewholefamilyofGodisbeforethethrone;andonheaven'sgoldenplainsissunganewsongwhichemployseverycelestialharp.Itisthesongofredeeminglove!IthasrespecttoHimwhoexpiredonCalvary.Howsweetarethoseheavenly notes which are tuned by the harmonious voice ofsaints and angels: "And they sang in a mighty chorus: "TheLamb is worthy—the Lamb who was killed. He is worthy toreceive power and riches andwisdom and strength and honorand glory and blessing." "And then I heard every creature inheavenandonearthandunder theearthand in thesea.Theyalso sang: "Blessing andhonor and glory andpower belong totheonesittingonthethroneandtotheLambforeverandever."Thus will the love of the Savior in His death be celebratedthroughalltheagesofimmortality.

What impression has this Divine lovemade upon ourminds?Canwe view all thismanifestation of infinite compassion andbenevolencewithacoldorindifferentheart?Areweinsensibletothestrongestlovethathaseverbeenmanifestedtotheworld?DowestillmakelightofthisgraceofJesus?Letusnotdespisesuchamazinglove.Letusturnfromeveryearthlyobject,andfixourthoughtsupontheloveoftheSaviorinHisdeath.Here,letour meditations be sweet: and let us say with the inspiredpenmen:'WewilldelightinYourlovemorethanwine.''WeloveHim,becauseHefirstlovedus.''Whoshallseparateusfromthelove of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution orfamineornakednessordangerorsword?No,inallthesethingswearemorethanconquerors throughhimwho lovedus.ForIam convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nordemons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,

neitherheightnordepth,noranythingelse inall creation,willbeabletoseparateusfromtheloveofGodthatisinChristJesusourLord.'

AdorableRedeemer,whatwondrouslovedidYoudisplay,whilestretchedon the cross, sufferingunder theweight of our sins?ThenYoumanifestedalovewhichallthefloodsofdivinewrathcouldnotextinguishalovewhichwickedmenanddevilscouldnotdiminish-alovestrongerthandeath.Howshallwespeakoflove so astonishing as Yours, O Friend of sinners! Its gloriessurpassallthought!Itisthesweetestthemeofsaintsandangelsbeforethethrone!Itisthewonderofheaven.'Wellmighttheskieswithwonderview,AlovesostrangeasThine,NothoughtofangelseverknewCompassionsodivine!'

SurelyitwasnothingbutinfinitelovethatbroughtYou,blessedJesus,fromthemansionsofglorytothemangerofBethlehem,and the cross of Calvary. You well knew beforehand all thosesufferings thatwere tobeenduredbyYou inmanifestingYourredeeminglovetoaworldofsinners.Theagonyinthegarden,thestripesandbuffetings in the judgmenthall- thepiercingofYour hands and feet- the revilings of Your foes- the conflictswith the powers of darkness- the overwhelming bitterness ofYourFather'swrath-theweightofaworld'sguiltlaiduponYou-the bitter cry of desertion- the burning thirst, the pain andagonyofthatfearfulhour,whenthelightofthesunfadedintheheavens,when the earth trembled, andwhen the graves burstopen-all,allwereclearlyforeseenbyYou.AndthoughYoukneweveryingredientinthatbittercupwhichtheFathergaveYoutodrink,yetYourlanguagewas,'Yes,Icome;inthevolumeofthebookitiswrittenofme;IdelighttodoYourwill,OmyGod;yes,Yourlawiswithinmyheart.'

In Your incomparable love for us, most willingly did You goforth with 'garments dyed in blood' to suffer and to die. Oh,

revealYourdyinglovetooursouls,andtransformusintoYourmostholyimage.InflameourcoldaffectionswithnewdisplaysofYourbenevolence,andmaywebeenabled insomemeasureto comprehendwith all saintswhat is its breadth, and length,anddepth,andheightofYourlove.MaythewondrousthemeofYour redeeming love be our delightful study on earth- may itrefresh our souls in the hour of death- may it be our songthroughalleternity.

Yourdyinglove,OLord,revealThatlovewhichmeltstheheartofsteel;Eachstubbornwillinmercybow,Andlaytherebelsinnerlow.Arise,OhSunofRighteousness,AndallYourwaitingpeoplebless;Ariseuponourhearts,andshineUntileveryheartbewhollyThine.Inflameourcoldaffections,Lord;RenewthembyYourquickeningword;Bindeverythoughtinwillingchains,Untilnotarebelthoughtremains.'

BlessedJesus,webeseechYoutogiveusasavinginterestusinYour atoning work on Calvary.Without a personal interest inthoseblessingswhichYouhavepurchasedbyYourdeathonthecross, we will be truly miserable. 'Truly, in vain is salvationhopedforfromthehills,andfromthemultitudeofmountains;truly in theLord ourGod is the salvation of Israel.' In vain istrue and permanent happiness sought for in the things of thisworld:allbeneaththeskiesisunsatisfyingtoallimmortalspirit.Then raise our affections above these vain transitory objects,andworldly cares,which somuchengross the attentionof themen of theworld.Maywe experience those imperishable joyswhichwill enrich our souls to all eternity.MayYour death beour life- our hope- our joy- our glory. Wash away our guiltystainsinYourblood,andprepareusfortheendlesspleasuresatYour right hand. Then may the joyful day soon arrive, when

somecelestialmessengershallconductoursoulstotherestonhigh,inthemansionsofYourFather'shouse,wherepraiseshallbe our beloved employment, while crowned with immortalfelicity in thepresenceofGodandangels,andof the spiritsofjustmenmadeperfect.

'ItisbyYourDeathwelive,OLord;ItisonYourcrosswerest,ForeverbeYourloveadored,Yournameforeverblest.'

THESAVIOR'SRESURRECTION

'Earlyhastentothetomb,WheretheylaidHisbreathlessclayAllissolitudeandgloom-WhohastakenHimaway?Christisrisen!Hemeetsoureyes.Savior,teachussotorise.'

"YouarelookingforJesus,theNazarene,whowascrucified.Heisn'there!Hehasbeenraisedfromthedead!Look,thisiswheretheylaidhisbody."Mark16:6

"ButthefactisthatChristhasbeenraisedfromthedead.Hehasbecomethefirstofagreatharvestofthosewhowillberaisedtolifeagain."1Cor.15:20

'TheconsiderationofourLord'sresurrectionshouldstrengthenour faith, and quicken our hope in God, causing us firmly tobelieve His word, and confidently to rely upon His promises,especiallythosewhichconcernourfuturestate.'-Barrow.

'ThewisdomofGod,therighteousnessofGod,andthetruthof

God,didallshineforthintheirfullestbeams,intheraisingHimfromthedead;whichwasthetopstoneofourreconciliation,asHisdeathhadbeenthecornerstoneandfoundation.'-Charnock.

THESAVIORINHISRESURRECTION.

MajesticalHerose:trembledtheearth;Theponderousgateofstonewasrolledaway;Thekeepersfell,theangels,awe-struck,sunkintoinvisibility,whileforthTheSavioroftheworldwalked,andstoodBeforethesepulcher,andviewedtheclouds,Empurpledgloriousbytherisingsun.-Graham.

The divine declaration that Jesus has risen from the dead ismost cheering to the trueChristian. If our blessed Suretywhowasvoluntarilybroughttothedustofdeathforus,hadnotburstthebarsofthegraveandrisenforourjustification,allourhopesof future bliss must have been buried in the tomb. Ourpilgrimageonearthwouldhavebeendarkand lonely,andourdescent into the valley of death sad and despairing. In vainwouldwehavelookedforsympathyandsupport inthesolemnhourofthespirit'sdeparturetoitseverlastinghome.Nobrightmorning-star would have appeared in our sky, to foretell therising of the Sun of Righteousness- to point us to a blissfulimmortality beyond the dark and silent grave. No preciouspromiseswouldhaveglowedon thepagesof theScriptures, totellusofarisenandglorifiedRedeemer-ofsaintsbeingraisedin His likeness- of the songs of a complete and glorioussalvation-oftheriversofpleasuresinEmmanuel'sland-of theboundlessstoresofdivinericheslaidupfortherighteousinthemansionsofthebettercountry.WithoutthejoyfultidingsoftheSavior'sresurrection,howcouldtheBiblehaveprovedalamptoour feet, and a light to our path?How important, then, is thedoctrineof the resurrectionofChrist! forupon itwebuildourhopesofeternallife.Wecannotestimatethissubjecttoohighly.It is a fundamental article of Christianity- the very pillar and

groundofthetruth,asitisinJesus.

Whilewewould here essay to dwell upon some of the leadingparticulars of this delightful theme, and consider the greatconsolationitaffordstoaworldoverwhichdeathreigns,letusrejoice evermore in the blessed assurance that Jesus has risenindeed. Let us regardHis resurrection as amost joyful event.Andinthedivinebeliefofit,letusrepairtoHimwhosearmsarenow stretched out from the throne of heaven to save the lost;andweshallfind,thatincommittingoursoulstoHiscareandkeeping,HewillguideussafelythroughlifewithHiscounsel,bewithusindeath,andonthemorningoftheresurrectiontakeusup in His own likeness, to participate with Him in that glorywithwhichHeisnowcrownedinthecelestialParadise.

THETIMEOFTHESAVIOR'SRESURRECTION.Itwasonthemorning of the third day afterHis crucifixion, that Jesus rosefromthedead.Itwasonthefirstdayoftheweek,'veryearlyinthe morning,' while 'it was yet dark,' that this bright andMorningStarrosefromtheregionsofdarknessandtheshadowofdeath.'Amorningthendawnedwhichistobefollowedbynoevening;abrighterSunaroseupontheworld,whichistosetnomore; a day began which shall never end; and night anddarkness departed to return not again.' Then did the blessed'day-spring fromonhigh' revisit uswith increasedglory.Mostappropriately did Christ, the true Light, rise 'early in themorning.'HeagonizedinGethsemaneinthegloomofmidnight;HesufferedonCalvaryindarkness;nowHerisesinlight.

Herisesearly.HedoesnotleaveHisdiscipleslongtomournHisabsence.OntheeveofHisdeparture,Hesaidtothem: 'Alittlewhile,andyoushallnotseeme;andagain,alittlewhile,andyoushall seeme.'Deep, indeed,was their distress,when they sawHisbodycommittedtothegraveontheeveningofthedayofhiscrucifixion: and with heartsmuch affected with grief did theyreturn from the sepulcher, to pass the cheerless hours of thenight.Butbriefwastheperiodoftheirtears,asisthecasewith

allthechildrenofGod.'Weepingmayendureforanight,butjoycomes in themorning.' InHis infinite grace our blessed Lordshortens,asfarasitisforHisgloryandourgood,theperiodofour earthly trials, making our afflictions both light andmomentary.

AsthedarknessofthatlastnightinwhichtheSaviorlayinthetombbeginstodisappearbeforethereturninglightofmorning,angels descend from heaven to witness the triumphs of thecross; torollawaythestonefromthesepulcher;andtorejoiceover the resurrection of the Son of Man. The hour at lengthcomes,whenHe,whovoluntarilylaiddownHislifeforsinners,takes it again amid illustrious displays of divine power andglory. How solemn and momentous was the period of theSavior'sawakeningfromthesleepofdeath!Withtheeyeoffaithletusdrawnear,andwithinsightofthesepulcher,witnesstherisingofourdivineRedeemer.Whilegazingonthesolemnsceneweseethegreatstonesuddenlyrolledawayfromthedoorofthesepulcherbyamessengerfromheaven,whosecountenancewaslikelightning,andwhoseclothingwaswhiteassnow.Weseelifereturning anew into the cold inanimate body of the Man ofCalvary. We see Him come forth and stand before the opensepulcher; while, at the same time, we feel the groundtrembling; we see the rocks cleaving, the graves of saintsopening,andtheRomanguardsalarmedandterrified,fallingtothe ground like dead men. How impressive is the narrativewhich the Evangelist Matthew gives of this solemn andmiraculous event! 'Suddenly there was a great earthquake,becauseanangeloftheLordcamedownfromheavenandrolledasidethestoneandsatonit.Hisfaceshonelikelightning,andhis clothingwasaswhite as snow.Theguards shookwith fearwhentheysawhim,andtheyfellintoadeadfaint.'

THEAPPEARANCEOFTHESAVIORTOHISDISCIPLES.Letus now consider the appearance of the Savior toHis disciplesafterHisresurrection.Onthefirstdayoftheweek,'attherisingofthesun,'thosepiouswomen,whowerelastatthesepulcher,

come first to it, bringing the 'sweet spices' which they hadpreparedforthepurposeofembalmingHisbody.But littledidthey imagine,as theyhastenedtowardsCalvaryat thedawnofthatjoyfulday,thatChristwasnownolongerunderthepowerofdeath-thatHehadrisenvictoriouslyfromthegrave-thatHisbody had nomore need of being anointedwith 'sweet spices'-that He was now clothed with the robes of immortality- thatdeathcouldhave 'nomoredominionoverHim'- thatHecouldnowexclaim in languageof exultation, 'Ograve,where is yourvictory?' If they had known all this, they would have beenoverjoyed;but'asyettheydidnotunderstandthescripture,thatHe must rise again from the dead.' The brightest glories ofCalvaryhadnotyet shone into theirhearts, disclosing to themthemoralgrandeuroftheatonement.

Now, depressed in spirit, they set out for the garden and thesepulcher;andwitheagerfootstepsadvancetowardsthesacredspot.Thethoughtofpassingtheguardstationednearthetomb,does not seem to have occasioned fear in them. Their onlyinquiryis,'Whoshallrollusawaythestonefromthedoorofthesepulcher?' Notwithstanding this impediment in the way ofperformingabenevolentwork,theystillproceed.LetusimitatetheminseekingHimwhowas crucified.Letus early tread thepathwhichleadstoHim,relyingonHispromise,thatthosewhoseekHimearlyshallfindHim.Letusnotfearonaccountofthedifficultiesby theway.Letnot thedepravityofourhearts,northedevicesofSatan,northeoppositionoftheworld,keepusforamomentfromlookingtotheblessedJesus.

OmySavior!maynottheemptyandtransientpleasuresofearthturn away my heart from following You with whom is theunfailing fountain of all felicity.May I seekYou continually inYourword,andintheordinancesofYourgrace;sothatImaybeprepared for beholding Your face in righteousness on thepeacefulshoresoftheheavenlyCanaan.'WhyshouldearthlybeautiestearmeFromtheFountainofallbliss,

FromthatLordwhowaitstobearmeToahappierlandthanthis?FaithalreadyseemsbeginningToapproachthatlandofrest,WhereIshallhavedonewithsinning,Andwithendlesspeacebeblest.HasteningtothoseheavenlytreasuresBaserjoysIleavebehind;Earthwithallitsboastedpleasures,Shallnotmovemysteadfastmind.'

ThewomenatlengthreachthetombinwhichtheRedeemerwaslaid. They find it open, the great stone rolled away, and theguardofsoldiersterrifiedanddispersed.Theyenterintoit,butthe body of the Lord Jesus is not there. He has risen. Of thisglorious truth they are assured by an angel, whose dazzlingappearanceat first filledthemwithgreat fear. 'Sotheyenteredthe tomb,and thereon the right satayoungmanclothed inawhite robe. Thewomenwere startled, but the angel said, "Donot be so surprised. You are looking for Jesus, the Nazarene,whowas crucified.He isn't here!Hehas been raised from thedead!Look,thisiswheretheylaidhisbody.'

Here we have more than human testimony respecting theresurrectionofChrist. It is confirmedby the sure testimonyofan angel from heaven. This celestial messenger informs thewomenthatChristhasrisen,while,atthesametime,heinvitesthemtosurveyHisemptytomb.'Come,seetheplacewheretheLord lay.' They find the Savior has abandoned the sepulcher.They see His grave-clothes laid aside. He is no longer in thatchamber of darkness. He is risen. Blessed truth! Early in thateventful morning death was despoiled of his prey. O grave,whereisnowyourvictory?Youhaveyieldedtothetriumphsofthe cross. You are forever vanquished. From your fear,we aredeliveredby therisingof theStarofMorning.AswenowturnoureyetotheopentombofJesus,theangelicdeclarationcomestoinspireuswithsweethope,andtoraiseouraffectionstothose

thingswhichareabove,whereChristnowsitsontherighthandofGod-Heisnothere-forHehasrisen.

Hark!theheraldangelssay,Christ,theLord,isrisentoday!Raiseyourjoysandtriumphshigh,Lettheglorioustidingsfly.Love'sredeemingworkisdone!Thebattle'sfought,thevictorywon!Lo,thesun'seclipseisover;Lo,hesetsinbloodnomore.Vainthestone,thewatch,theseal;Christhasburstthegatesofhell;DeathinvainforbidsHisrise;ChristhasopenedParadise.LivesagainourgloriousKing,"Where,Odeath,isnowyoursting?"Oncehediedoursoulstosave."Where'syourvictory,boastinggrave?"

Triumphant Redeemer, death could not hold You; the gravecouldnotretainYou;thestone, theseal, thekeeperscouldnotconfine You to the regions of darkness. At the appointed timeYouarose,achievingaglorioustriumphbydestroyinghimthathadthepowerofdeath,anddeliveringthose,who,throughfearofthelastenemy,werealltheirlifetimesubjecttobondage.Youhave paid the price of our redemption in Your death, and arerisenagainforourjustification-forthepurposeofpleadingourcause in heaven, and receiving the highest honor, power, andgloryastheonlyMediatorbetweenGodandman.Oh,risenandexaltedSavior,whilehereinthehouseofourpilgrimagemaywealways speak Your praise with a joyful heart, and in yonderheavenly home of the righteous, sing in seraphic strains thetriumphsofthecross-ofthewondersofredeeminglove! 'IwillextolYou,myGod,OKing,andIwillblessYournameforeverandever.'

'HosannatoourconqueringKing;Allhail,incarnateLove;TenthousandsongsandglorieswaitTocrownYourheadabove.Yourvictories,andYourdeathlessfameThroughthewideworldshallrun,AndeverlastingagessingThetriumphsYouhavewon.'

Come near and look into the grave of Jesus. Behold the placewhere theRedeemer of theworld lay. Consider howdeepwasthathumiliationwhichbroughtHimtothedustofdeath,forthepurpose of raising us to glory, and honor, and immortality.ContemplatethevastnessofthatlovewhichconstrainedHimtomakeHisgravewiththewicked,andwiththerichinHisdeath.And as you think of His tomb, let all fear and sorrow bebanished from yourmind, let cheerful hope return; let devoutrapturebeenkindledinyoursoul;forHehasrisen,andsecuredour resurrection to eternal life. He has irradiated the dismalchambersof thegrave,andmade themplacesof repose to thebodies of the saints until the blissful morning of theresurrection.

AndnowaswelooksteadilyandearnestlyintothesepulcheroftheManofsorrows,whileangelswhisper inourears the soul-entrancingwords, 'Heisnothere: forHehasrisen,' letusalsosurreywithjoyourownemptygraves;forwe,too,arerisenwithJesus,andourlifeishiddenwithChristinGod,andwearetheheirs of a glorious immortality in the skies. How sweet thethought!What transporting joydoes itbring to thegoodman,evenamidhisearthlytoils,andconflicts,anddistresses!Hereisasourceofineffablehappiness.

Then, let us not confine our views to the narrow houseappointedforallliving.LetuslookwithlivelyhopebeyondthegraveoftheChristian.Letuslookupwards,whereall isbright,and joyous, and happy. Yonder, on Zion's hill, is the true,

abidinghomeoftheransomedoftheLord.Tothathappyhomethe soul of every believer passes as soon as he falls asleep inJesus.ThechildofGodneverseesdeath,becauseHe,whoistheresurrectionandthelife,hastriumphedoverthekingofterrors,spoiledprincipalitiesandpowers,andshowedusthepathtotherealmsof'unendingday'.'Verily,verily,Isayuntoyou,Ifamankeepmywords,heshallneverseedeath.'

'Whenbyagoodman'sgraveImusealone,Methinksanangelsitsuponthestone;Likethoseofold,onthatthrice-hallowednight,Whosatandwatchedinclothingheavenlybright;Andwithavoiceinspiringjoy,notfear,Says,pointingupwards-thatheisnothere,Thatheisrisen!'Shortly after His resurrection Christ appeared first to MaryMagdalene.'NowwhenJesuswasrisen,earlyonthefirstdayoftheweek,HeappearedfirsttoMaryMagdalene,outofwhomHehadcastsevendevils.'HowfulloftendernessandcompassionisourLord andSavior!How freely doesHe forgive our iniquity!Mary Magdalene, once a notorious sinner, is reclaimed bysovereigngrace-becomesa truepenitent, and ishonoredwiththefirstsightoftherisenSavior.Tohermuchwasforgiven-andshe lovedmuch. She was greatly- humbled on account of hermanysins,andhighlyexaltedbytheSaviorafterherconversion.Here is certainly great encouragement for all truepenitents. Ifwesincerelyconfessoursinsandrepentofthem,Hewhocamenottocall therighteous,butsinners torepentance,will, in themultitude of His tender mercies, freely forgive us, reclaim usfromtheerrorofourways,andgiveusthegarmentofpraiseforthespiritofheaviness.

IfwecleavecloselytoHim,HewillgraciouslymanifestHimselftous,andshowusmoreandmoreofthebeautyandexcellencyofHisPerson, the greatness ofHis love,His suitableness as aSavior, and the riches of the glory of His inheritance in thesaints. How wonderful is the loving-kindness of Him who

reveals the deep and secret things- who hasmade knownHiswaystoMoses,andHisactstothechildrenofIsrael!

Soon after His appearance to Mary and her companions, theSavior makes Himself known to Peter, whose name wasparticularly mentioned by the angel when he declared theresurrection of Christ to the women, and directed them tocommunicatethegladtidingstothedisciples.'Butgoyourway,tell His disciples and Peter.' Here is another remarkableinstance of the compassionof Jesus toHis erring disciples. IndenyingHisLordandMaster,Petercommittedaverygrievoussin; but having heartily repented of it, he was now in deepspiritual distress, and must speedily be comforted, lest heshouldbeswallowedupwithover-muchsorrow.Andhowgreatwas his joy when the news of the Savior's resurrection wasreceived!Howeagerlydidhepresstowards thesepulcher, thatHemightseeJesus!SodoesthesincerepenitentearnestlyseekChristinthenightofspiritualdesertion.Insuchgloomyseasonshis language is: 'I will rise now, and go about the city in thestreets, and in the broadways Iwill seekHimwhommy soulloves.'Tosuchapenitent,nothingissowelcomeasasightoftheCrucifiedOne;forHealonecanimpartjoytothetremblingandanxious sinner conscious of having committed aggravated sin,andsaytoHim: 'Son,beofgoodcheer,yoursinsareforgiven.'Peter most affectionately received the newly-risen Savior, andfearlesslydidheeverafterwardsstandupforHiscauseuntilhisown ransomed spirit was borne on high, to wear themartyr'scrown.

The Savior next appears to the two disciples on their way toEmmaus,avillageaboutsevenmilesfromJerusalem.Oneofthedisciples,wearetold,wasCleopas,andtheotherissupposedbymanytohavebeenJohn.Astheyjourneyon,depressedinspirit,conversingtogetherabout'allthesethingswhichhadhappened,'Jesus joins them in their walk. After listening a short time totheirremarks,Hebeginstotalktothemofthenecessityofthesufferings, death, and resurrection of Messiah, and as the

consequence and reward of His sufferings His entrance uponHismediatorial glory.He thenexplains toy them the scripturepassages concerningHisowndivinemission toour lostworld,andshowsthosewhothedivinepredictionshavebeenactuallyaccomplished. What a happy effect must those words ofheavenlywisdom,which came from the lipsof thenewly risenSavior, have produced in theminds of those holymen,whosetheme was Jesus of Nazareth! Their hearts their glowed withsacred love and strong desire after the things of God. It wasindeedgoodforthemtobethere.

As theyapproach thevillageofEmmaus, theyareunwilling tolet Jesus leave them, though He had not yet made Himselfknown.TheyconstrainHimtoabidewiththem,astheeveningwasnowdrawingnear.Heacceptstheirhospitalities,eatswiththem,andinthebreakingofbread,revealsHimselftothem.'Astheysatdowntoeat,hetookasmallloafofbread,askedGod'sblessingonit,brokeit,thengaveittothem.Suddenly,theireyeswereopened,andtheyrecognizedhim.Andatthatmomenthedisappeared!'Who, that is renewed by the Spirit of God, doesnot love to think of the journey toEmmaus, and the heavenlyconversation by the way! What a noble example is herepresented for the imitation of the way-worn pilgrim of earth,while traveling to the mansions of rest in heaven! Let himassociatewith thosewhose conversation is inheaven, and talktogetherbytheway,ofallthosethingsthatconcernthespiritualkingdomofourblessedSavior.ThenmayweexpectthatChristwilldrawneartous,andmakeacleardiscoveryofthematchlessexcellencies and glories of His Person and work to ourdisconsolatesouls, irradiatingthemwithbeamsofdivine light,raising our affections far above sublunary objects, andtransportinguswithblessed visions of the felicities of heaven.Then will we better understand the import of these preciouspromises, 'I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.''Wheretwoorthreearegatheredtogetherinmyname,thereamIinthemidstofthem.' 'ThenthosewhofearedtheLordspokewitheachother,andtheLordlistenedtowhattheysaid.Inhis

presence, a scroll of remembrance was written to record thenamesof thosewho fearedhimand loved to think abouthim."Theywillbemypeople,"says theLordAlmighty."Onthedaywhen I act, they will bemy own special treasure. I will sparethemasafathersparesanobedientanddutifulchild.'

Then will our passage through life be one continued Emmausjourney:everydaywethuswalkwillbeaSabbathday'sjourneytowardsthemansionsofbliss;andweshallenjoymanyasweetforetaste ofheavenuponearth.A risen Saviorwill then revealHimselftooursoulsinHiswordandordinances;andwithopenfaceweshallbeholdas inaglass thegloryof theLord,andbechangedintothesameimagefromglorytoglory,evenasbytheSpiritoftheLord.Thenwillourheartsburnwithinus,whileHeopens to our understanding the Scriptures, and while in thebreaking of bread at the sacramental table He makes himselfknowntous,andgrantsussweetcommunionwithHim.

Blessed Jesus, may Your presence go with me as I journeythroughthewildernessofthisworld.AbideinmecontinuallybyYourSpirit,andmayIexperiencethefulfillmentofthatcheeringpromise-'Lo,Iamwithyoualways.'OYouwhommysoulloves,letme seeYour countenance, letmehearYourvoice; forYourvoice is sweet,andYourcountenance is lovely.Abidewithme,forthedayis'farspent.'Abidewithmefrommorn'tilleve,ForwithoutYouIcannotlive.Abidewithmewhennightisnigh,ForwithoutYouIdarenotdie.'

Asthestormsoflifegatheraroundmewithathreateningaspect,OmercifulRedeemer,may I cleavemore closely toYou, enjoysweeter communion with You, taste more and more of Yourgoodness,untilmysoul,freedfromitsearthlytabernacle,shallascend todwell forever inYourgloriouspresence, toenjoythesmilesofYourcountenance,andto feastonthehiddenmannainthecelestialParadise.

ThesameeveninginwhichChristmakesHimselfknowntothetwo disciples, He appears to the ten apostles assembled inJerusalem, Thomas being absent. He there gives them Hispeace, breathes on them theHoly Spirit, and shows them HishandsandHisside,bearingthemarksofthenailsandthespear.Theysee,theybelieve,theyrejoice.'ThenwerethedisciplesgladwhentheysawtheLord.'Afewhoursbefore,they'mournedandwept;'nowtheyarefilledwithjoy,andwiththeHolySpirit.Nowdotheyrealizethesweetnessofthatblessedpromise,'Iwillseeyou again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy shall nomantakefromyou.'

When Jesus is absent there is great cause for lamentation; forthenallischeerlessnessandsterilitywiththesoul;butwhenHispresence is enjoyed, the very desert is made to rejoice andblossomastherose.Oh,thejoythatthesoulexperienceswhenbyfaithitseestheLordJesus,andhearsHimwhisper-'Peacebeuntoyou!'Howarethedisciplesoverpoweredwithemotionsofwonder, and admiration, and gratitude, when they gaze uponthewoundsinflicteduponJesus-whentheybeholdtheprintofthenailsinHishand,andthespearinHisside!MaywealsobegladatthesightofChrist,whilewewalkbyfaith,untilwecometobeholdHiminthemidstoftheheavenlythrone,appearingasa Lamb that had been slain; andwith sublime, everlasting joyadoreHimforgivingHimselfforouroffences,andrisingagainforourjustification.

'MayeachrevolvingyearinflameOurzeal,delight,andlove;'TillroundthethronewechantHisnameInpurerstrainsabove.Oh!come,youservantsoftheLord,HisendlesspraiseproclaimIngladsomenotesHisloverecord,For,worthyistheLamb.'

Blessed Savior, during our passage through this valley of

mortality, be in our midst to sustain and soothe us by Yourgraciouspresence,andtogladdenourheartsbymanifestingtous the many tokens of Your goodness. May we rejoice in thebeliefthatYouarerisenindeed,andhavecarriedwithYoufromthetombthemarksofYourcrucifixion,foroureternalwonderandadmiration.MaywebecontinuallymakingnewdiscoveriesofYourinfiniteperfections,andwonderfulworksinsavingsoulsfromdeath,andforgivingamultitudeofsins.Maywedailylookinto Your Word, and there read the immensity of Yourbenevolence towards our guilty race. May we see that thefountain of eternal life has been opened in Your pierced side;andthatweareinvitedtocomeanddrinkofthewaterthatYougiveus; so thatour soulsmaybe invigorated, our joy full, oursalvation certain and complete. Oh, may we experience Yourrichgraceinourheartsonearth;andbeyondtheshoresoftime,tasteYourgoodness throughthecirclingagesofeternity.ThenaroundYourheavenlythroneweshallcelebratethetriumphsofYour death and resurrection; and with gladsome notes praiseYouthroughaneternalSabbath,whosebrightnessnoshadowsofnightshalleverobscure.

'ThroughthiswildwildernessIroam,Fardistantfrommyblissfulhome;Lord,letYourpresencebemystay,Andguardmeinthisdangerousway.Temptationseverywhereannoy,Andsinsandsnaresmypeacedestroy;Myearthlyjoysarefrommetorn,AndoftenanabsentGodImourn.'

ThenextSabbathafterHisfirstappearancetothetenapostles,Christcomesagain,andstandsinthemidstofthem,andsalutesthemasbefore,bysaying,'Peacebeuntoyou.'Thomaswasnowpresent. To him the story of the Savior's resurrection hadappeared unbelievable. When told by the other disciples, thatthey had seen the Lord, he replied, 'Except I shall see in Hishandstheprintofthenails,andputmyfingerintotheprintof

thenails, and thrustmyhand intoHis side, Iwillnotbelieve.'No sooner had Jesus saluted the disciples than He turned toThomas, and addressed to him these touching words: 'Reachhere your finger, and behold my hands; and reach here yourhand, and thrust it intomy side; and do not be faithless, butbelieving.' It is enough. His incredulity immediately vanishes.ThevoiceoftheSavior-theexpressionofHiscountenance-thebeaming of His eye- the sight of His wounds- produce anirresistible effect upon his mind. He seeks no additionalevidence to convince him that Jesus is risen; but forthwithmakesanobleconfessionofthetruth,andofhisfaithinHim,byexclaiming,'MyLordandmyGod.'

Thisisthelanguageofthestrongestfaith.Canwe,intruthandsincerity, adopt it as ours? Or are we still 'faithless andunbelieving?'WillnotthevoiceofJesus,inHisWord,convinceusofthetruthofHisresurrection,andestablishusinthemostholyfaithofthegospel?HearHisowndeclarationutteredfromtherealmsofimmortality,'Iamthelivingonewhodied.Look,Iamaliveforeverandever!AndIholdthekeysofdeathandthegrave.'InHisinfinitecompassionHecallsustolookuponHim,andlive. 'Beholdme, beholdme.' 'Behold, it is I'He showsusHishandsandHis side;and tellsus thatHewaswounded forour transgressions, and bruised for our iniquities- that thechastisement of our peace was upon Him; and that with Hisstripeswearehealed.Letusrisefromtheslumbersofunbelief,stretch forth thehandof faith, and exclaimwithThomas, 'MYLordandMYGod;' andwithDavid, 'Omysoul, youhave saiduntotheLord,YouaremyLord;'andwithJob,'IknowthatmyRedeemerlives;'andwithPaul, 'IknowwhomIhavebelieved;'andwithSolomon,'MyBelovedisMINE,andIamHis.'

AdorableSavior,howpatientlydidYoubearwiththeinfirmitiesof Your disciples! How tender was Your care for them! Howgreat Your condescension in thus manifesting Yourself toThomasfortheconfirmationofhis faith!Oh,risenOne,mayIalsoacceptYouasmyLordandSavior.Lord,Ibelieve;helpmy

unbelief.'ThoughIdonotatpresentseeYouwiththebodilyeye,yetmay I discernYouby the eye of faith, and rejoicewith joyunspeakableandfullofglory,beingthoroughlyconvincedofthetruth of Your resurrection, and fully persuaded of having apersonal and saving interest in Your infinitemerits.May I beamong those of whom You have said, 'Blessed are those whohavenotseen,andyethavebelieved.'MaymyaffectionsforYoubedailyincreasinginstrengthandfervency,asIpresstowardsthemarkfortheprizeofthehighcallingofGodinChristJesus,untilinmansionsoflightbeyondtheskiesIseeYouasYouare,castmycrownbeforeYou,andwiththefervorofaseraphadoreYouthroughavasteternity.'

ToJesus,thecrownofmyhope,Mysoulisinhastetobegone,Oh,bearme,youcherubim,up,AndwaftmeawaytoHisthrone!MySavior,whomabsentIlove,WhomnothavingseenIadore;WhosenameisexaltedaboveAllglory,dominion,andpower.'

AfterHis resurrectionJesusappearedagain toHisdisciplesattheSeaofTiberias,inGalilee,whereHeatewiththem,andsaidto Peter three times, 'Simon, son of John, do you loveme?' Itwas probably about the same time that He appeared to 'fivehundredbrethrenatonce,'onamountaininGalilee,whereHehadpromisedHisdisciples,beforeHisdeath, to showHimselfto themafterHisresurrection. 'ButafterIhaverisen, IwillgobeforeYouintoGalilee.'TheangelalludedtothisappearanceofChrist, when he said to the women, 'Go quickly, and tell Hisdisciples, thatHe is risen from the dead, and behold,He goesbeforeyouintoGalilee;thereyoushallseeHim.'Howdelightfulto think of this meeting of the Savior with the five hundredbrethren, in connection with that blessed reunion of theredeemedontheshoresoftheGalileeabove-theplacetowhichJesushasgonebeforeus-theplacewhichHeisnowpreparing

forus,whereweshall seeHim face to face,beeverwithHim,andbeholdHisglory!'OGalileeabove,youlandofperfectunionwithHim,whoistheobjectofourlove,howdoesthethoughtofyou exalt and cheer our spirits during our pilgrimage throughthisvalleyoftears!OGalileebeyondtheclouds,howblestishe,whomJesushaspreceded,inordertoprepareaplaceforhimonyoureververdantvalleysandsunnyhills!'

ThelastappearanceoftheSavior,afterHisresurrection,wastoalltheapostles,whenHeledthemtoBethany,andascendedtoheaven in theirpresence. Paul thus speaks of the order ofHisappearancetothedisciples: 'HewasseenbyPeterandthenbythe twelve apostles. After that, hewas seen bymore than fivehundred of his followers at one time, most of whom are stillalive, though some have died by now. Then he was seen byJamesandlaterbyall theapostles.Lastof all, I sawhim, too,long after theothers, as though I had been born at thewrongtime.'AndLuketellsusthattotheapostles'HeshowedHimselfaliveafterHispassion,bymanyinfallibleproofs,beingseenbythem forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to thekingdomofGod.'

Thediscipleshadperfectevidenceof theresurrectionofChristduringthosefortydaysHeremainedonearth.Hewasnotonlyseen by them, but He conversed with them on spiritual anddivine things. He walked with them, and ate and drank withthem on different occasions; hence it was impossible theyshouldbedeceivedwithrespecttoHisresurrection.AndasthisdoctrinewastobethefoundationonwhichChristianityshouldrest, the Savior appeared to them again and again, until alldoubts were removed from their minds- until they could goforth,andboldlyproclaimto theworld theglorious truth, that'This same Jesus has God raised up, whereof we all arewitnesses.''ButGodraisedhimtolifethreedayslater.ThenGodallowedhimtoappear,nottothegeneralpublic,buttouswhomGodhadchosenbeforehandtobehiswitnesses.Wewerethosewhoateanddrankwithhimafterhe rose from thedead.'The

apostleswerechosenwitnessesoftheresurrectionofChrist;andtheir strong united testimony cannot be overthrown. May wethenreceive itassureand incontrovertible;andsaywithPaul,'But now has Christ risen from the dead, and has become thefirst-fruitsofthosewhoslept.'Restinginthisbelief,letusmusestill further on some of the great and soul-supporting truthsconnectedwithHisresurrection.

THESAVIORROSEFROMTHEDEADINGREATMAJESTY.Look again at the solemn and mysterious scene. Brightmessengerscomefromheaven,towitnessthesplendorsofHisresurrection, and to announce the glad tidings to theweepingdisciples.WhentheLordofgloryrises,thegreatstoneisrolledaway from the sepulcher by angelic hands; the earth quakes;rocks are rent asunder; the soldiers, filledwith terror, trembleand flee, and fall to theground likedeadmen;andmanyholypeople,whowere sleeping in their tombs, awoke, to grace thetriumphoftheConquerorofdeath.

TheSaviornowcomesfromthetomb,crownedwithhonor,andmajesty, and glory. The sun, emerging from an eclipse andshiningagaininhissplendor,isbutafaintemblemoftheSunofRighteousness rising from the gloomy chambers of the grave,and shining with the most glorious luster. How unlike the'SuffererofCalvary'doesHenowappear,walkingforthfromtherock-boundsepulcher,attendedbyangels inshininggarments!NodarkcloudsnowgatheroverHim:nofurioustempestbreaksuponHim:nocryofdesertioncomesfromHislips:HisFatherisreconciled,andHisfoesvanquished.Hehaslaidasideallthesorrows and infirmities of human nature, and appears as thePrinceofLife,inalltheinaccessiblesplendorsoftheGodhead.

Yes, blessed Jesus, when You left the tomb, Your last conflictwas over, Your last cup of sorrow emptied, Your last painsuffered.NowdoYouriseinYourexcellentmajesty,andshowtotheworldthatYouhavegainedthevictoryoverdeathandhell,thatabsolutedominionisYours,thatYouaretheHeadoverall

things for thechurch.Whenwe thinkof thegreatmajestyandglory with which You arose from Your lowest state ofhumiliation in the dust of death, we may truly say with Yourservantofold, 'Yours,OLord, is thegreatness,andthepower,andtheglory,andthevictory,andthemajesty:forallthatisintheheavenand in theearth isYours;Yours is thekingdom,OLord,andYouareexaltedasHeadaboveall.

THE SAVIOR WAS RAISED FROM THE DEAD BY THEPOWERANDGLORYOFGOD.Thisactisparticularlyascribedto the Father, though the other persons of the blessed Trinitywere concerned in it. The sacred writers dwell with muchemphasisonthispoint.'WhomGodhasraisedup,havingloosedthepainsofdeath:becauseitwasnotpossiblethatHeshouldbeheldby it.' 'Christwas raisedup from thedeadby thegloryoftheFather.''AndGodhasbothraiseduptheLord,andwillalsoraiseupusbyHisownpower.''Andnow,maytheGodofpeace,who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, equip youwith all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you,through the power of Jesus Christ, all that is pleasing to him.Jesus is the great Shepherd of the sheep by an everlastingcovenant, signed with his blood. To him be glory forever andever.Amen.'

ThusbythepoweroftheFatherwastheSonofGodraisedfromthesleepofdeathtoalifeofimmortalglory,honor,power,andfelicity. When Christ had satisfied all the claims that divinejusticehadagainstHimasourSurety, itwasnotpossible thatthe chains of death should hold Him; and in token of HisacceptanceoftheatoningworkoftheMediator,GodtheFatherraisedHimfromthedominionofthegrave,andexaltedHimtoHisownrighthandintheheavenlyplaces.

What cause of rejoicing has he whose hope is placed on theredeemingworkof the Savior! Jesus is risen.Andnow arewebegottenagainuntoa livinghopebyHisresurrection fromthedead, to all inheritance incorruptible; and undefiled, and that

fadesnotaway,reserved inheaven forus,whoarekeptbythepowerofGodthroughfaithuntosalvation,readytoberevealedin the last time. Nowwemay boldly exclaimwith Paul, 'Whoshall lay anything to the charge of God's elect? It is God whojustifies:who isHe that condemns? It is Christ that died, yes,rather that has risen again.' Here is the grand source of theChristian'sjoy;andhereletusrestourfaithandbuildourhopesforeternity.Letusfirmlyrelyonthedivinetestimonyrespectingthe resurrection of Christ, and derive encouragement andsupremedelightinGodfromthecheeringdeclaration.

Christwasraisedfromthedead,thatour'faithandhope'mightbe inGod;andifwefleeforrefugetothis 'hopesetbeforeus,'ourjoyandconsolationwillbegreat.Wewilllookforwardwithardenthope to therealizationof all those 'exceedinggreatandprecious promises' contained in the word of God; and we willdescendintothevalleyoftheshadowofdeathinthehopeofablessed resurrection by the power and Spirit of God. HowconsolingtothedepartingbelieveristhethoughtthatGodwillalsoraisehimupfromthedarknessofthegrave,asHedidtheLordJesus,ourForerunner,ourElderBrother,ourunchangingFriend! 'Knowing thatHewho raised up the Lord Jesus, shallraiseusupalsobyJesus,andshallpresentuswithyou.'

THE SAVIOR, BY HIS RESURRECTION FROM THE DEAD,WASDECLARED TO BE THE SONOFGODWITH POWER.HereHeappearsinHispropermajesty-inthegloriesofHisisdivinity: 'thisactofGodraisingHim,notonlyshowingHimtobe,butinsomesortconstitutingHimtheSonofGod'Whileonearth, His glory was, in a great measure, 'veiled' frommortalview, that man might converse with Him, and that He mightperform,inanhumblemanner,Hismediatorialwork.Here,Heappearedinweakness,asaManofsorrows,asOnecontinuallyacquaintedwithgrief.Itistrue,thatevenwhileHetabernacledintheflesh,a 'rayofHisdivinity'occasionallyshoneforth inamostillustriousmanner,fortheconfirmationofthefaithofhisservants and the relief of the afflicted. So numerous and

astonishingwerethemiraclesheperformed,thatitwasaskedbymanyofthepeople,'WhentheMessiahcomes,willHedomoremiracles than these which this man has done?' But amid allthose scenes of miracles and might, He still appeared in theform of a servant, to obey, suffer, and accomplish all that theFather required of Him, in consequence of His assuming oursins, bearing our griefs, and carrying our sorrow- He wascrucified throughweakness but raised in power.What greaterdemonstrationofHisdivinitycanweaskthanthefact,thatHerose fromthedeadbyHisownpower?WhenHe left thetombHeverifiedHisowndivineprediction,thatHehadpowertolaydownHis life, and to take it again;while at the same timeHemanifestedtotheworld,thatHeistheSonofGod;yes,thatHeisGodoverall,blessedforever.

What unsearchable riches of grace and glory are contained intheanimatingdoctrineof theSavior's resurrection!WhenholyPaul viewed the subject in its vastness- when he saw howintimately it is connected with our regeneration, justification,sanctification, and resurrection to eternal life- he seems tooverlook everything else, and longs for a more intimateacquaintancewiththosesublimeandheavenlytruthsonwhicharefoundedtheChristian'shopeofendlessfelicity.'Asaresult,Ican really know Christ and experience the mighty power thatraised him from the dead. I can learnwhat itmeans to sufferwith him, sharing in his death, so that, somehow, I canexperience the resurrection from the dead!' Like the greatapostlemaywe, also, earnestlydesire toknowmoreandmoreaboutChrist,inthepowerandgloryofHisresurrection,aswellasinthefellowshipofHissufferings.

IN THE RESURRECTION OF THE SAVIOR WE HAVE ACERTAIN PLEDGE AND PATTERN OF OUR OWNRESURRECTIONTOGLORYANDIMMORTALITY. 'For sincebyman camedeath, byman camealso the resurrectionof thedead.'Althoughitisappointeduntomenoncetodie,yetblessedbeGod,wewillnotalwayssleepinthegrave.Thenightofdeath

will pass rapidly away, and themorning soon come,when ourowngraves shall openamidadissolvingworld-whenwe shallcomeforth,deliveredfromthegarmentsofcorruption-whenweshallforeverlayasidethegarbofthegrave,asJesusdidonthejoyfulmorningofHisresurrection.

'WithjoylikeChrist's,shalleverysaintHisemptytombsurrey;Thenrise,withHisascendingLord,Torealmsofendlessday.'

As our glorious head and Representative, Christ, in Hisresurrection,hastriumphedoverdeath,and,at thesametime,given us a living hope of following Him from the dismalmansions of the tomb, to a land where the shadow of deathnevercomes-whereallisbloomingandjoyousintheeverlastingsplendor of the Sun of Righteousness. How blessed theassurancethatJesushasrisen,and 'hasbecomethe first-fruitsofthosewhosleep'-thatHeis'theFirst-Bornfromthedead!'

It affords us the highest pleasure to contemplate Hisresurrectionastheprocuringcauseandpledgeofourown.Andhow soul-comforting is the truth, that we shall rise from thesleepofdeath in the likenessofour risenandglorified Savior,who 'shall change our vile body, that itmay be fashioned likeuntoHisgloriousbody,accordingtotheworkingwherebyHeisableeventosubdueallthingsuntoHimself!' 'Beloved,nowarewethesonsofGod,anditdoesnotyetappearwhatweshallbe;butweknowthatwhenHeshallappear,weshallbe likeHim;forweshallseeHimasHeis.'Blessed fruit of the Redeemer's resurrection! Well may weexclaim with the Psalmist: 'I will behold Your face inrighteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake with Yourlikeness.'OurresurrectiontoeternallifeandglorywasrenderedcertainwhenJesus,byHisowndivinepower,burstthemassivebarsofthetomb,andascendedtoHisFatherandourFather,toHisGodandourGod.Andbyvirtueofour 'union toHim',we

shallfinallyawakefromoursleepinthedustofdeath,andcomefrom our graves inHis likeness, to sing on the peaceful shoreabove,thesongofMosesandtheLamb.

AsChristwasraisedfromthedeadbythepoweroftheFather,so is the believer quickened into new life by the same divinepower and glory. 'Wewere therefore buriedwith him throughbaptismintodeathinorderthat,justasChristwasraisedfromthedeadthroughthegloryoftheFather,wetoomayliveanewlife. Ifwehavebeenunitedwithhim like this inhisdeath,wewill certainly also beunitedwithhim inhis resurrection.'OurresurrectiontospirituallifeisanactofAlmightypower.Inthiswork the same power is required that is necessary to create aworld.ItisthevoiceofGodalonethatcancallthesinnerfromthedeep,sepulchralstillnessofthisnaturalstate,andawakeninhim a new and holy life. 'ButGod is so rich inmercy, and helovedussoverymuch,thatevenwhileweweredeadbecauseofoursins,hegaveuslifewhenheraisedChristfromthedead.(ItisonlybyGod'sspecialfavorthatyouhavebeensaved!)Forheraised us from the dead along with Christ, and we are seatedwith him in the heavenly realms-all because we are one withChristJesus.'

Blessed and delightful truth! We are quickened together withChrist;weareraiseduptogether;wearemadetosittogetherona heavenly throne. What heart call desire more than theblessingsheresetforth?Whocanenjoymore?Oh,therichesofdivine mercy! To God, Who is rich in mercy, we owe ourresurrectionwithChristtoalifeofimmortalbeauty,andvigor,andglory.

HaveYOUbeenawakened fromyourspiritualslumbersby thepowerof theFather?Have you been raised upwithChrist? IsthelifeofGodkindledinyoursoul?Ifso,thenwillyouwalkinnewness of life, and be conformed to the image of our risenRedeemer. Then will you contemplate Him with increasingdelightin'thepowerofHisresurrection,'andwalkmoreclosely

inthelikenessofthatresurrection.

Ever blessed God, our Heavenly Father, breathe on us Yourquickening power, and awaken in us a new life. Oh, may thesamepowerthatcalledtheSaviorfromthetomb,beexertedinbringingus fromspiritualdarkness into themarvelous lightofthenewcreationinChristJesus.MaytheHolySpiritbeinusasawellofwaterspringingupintoeverlastinglife.Maythegracesof the Spirit be continually in lively exercise in our souls,renewing our comforts, cheering our footsteps in the path toglory,sweeteningourcommunionwithHeaven,andmakingusfruitfulineverygoodwork.'Awake,Onorthwind;andcome,Osouthwind;blowuponmygarden, that thespices thereofmayflow out. Let my Beloved come into His garden, and eat Hispleasantfruits.'

Our Heavenly Father, we beseech You to shine upon ourpathway, and lead us to the realms of everlasting day; and onthose happy shores, beyond the dark waters of the Jordan ofdeath, may we ever sing of that power and grace whichquickenedandraisedustoeternallife,inthepresenceofHiminthe likeness of whose resurrection we have been plantedtogether.'Savemefrommyenemies,Lord;Iruntoyoutohideme. Teachme to do yourwill, for you aremy God.May yourgraciousSpiritleadmeforwardonafirmfooting.Forthegloryofyourname,OLord,saveme.Inyourrighteousness,bringmeoutofthisdistress.Inyourunfailinglove,cutoffallmyenemiesanddestroyallmyfoes,forIamyourservant.'

Let us rejoice that Jesus has risen from the dead. The day inwhichHerosewasoneofgreatgladnesstotheuniverse.Therewasjoyintheregionsofglory,andtherewasjoyonearth.Withwhat inexpressible joy did the angels descend from heaven torollaway thestone fromthesepulcher,and tohail their risingLord!How theymust have rejoiced to see Jesus lay aside thegarments ofmortality, and forsake the dark tomb! 'Praise theLord,youangelsofhis,youmightycreatureswhocarryouthis

plans,listeningforeachofhiscommands.Yes,praisetheLord,youarmiesofangelswhoservehimanddohiswill!'

AroundHissacredtombAwillingwatchyoukeep;UntiltheblessedmomentcameTorouseHimfromHissleep.Thenrolledthestone,AndalladoredYourrisingLordWithjoyunknown.'

Wearetold,thatthedisciplesweregladwhentheysawtheLordafterHisresurrection.Like themmaywe toorejoice,when,byfaith,weseeHimrisingfromthetombandascendingtoheaven,toprepareforusmansionsofblissinHisFather'shouse.Letusrejoice with the whole family of the redeemed in songs oftriumphandpraiseforthevictoriesHehasachievedoverdeathand the powers of darkness. And especially as each Sabbathmorning pours itswelcome light around our habitation, let uscommemorate with rapture our Savior's resurrection; andthroughthatdayofsweetpeaceandsacredrest,often thinkofHisrisingagain toenter intoHisglory, tobestowuponusHisrichestblessings,andtoguideourfeetintothewayofheavenlypeace.'ThisisthedaytheLordhasmade.Wewillrejoiceandbegladinit.Please,Lord,pleasesaveus.Please,Lord,pleasegiveussuccess.BlesstheonewhocomesinthenameoftheLord.WeblessyoufromthehouseoftheLord.''YouarelookingforJesus,the Nazarene, who was crucified. He isn't here! He has beenraisedfromthedead!'

'Yes,theRedeemerarose,TheSaviorleftthedead;AndoverourhellishfoesHighraisedHisconqueringhead;InwilddismayTheguardsaround

Felltotheground,Andsunkaway.Lo,theangelicbandsInfullassemblymeet,TowaitHishighcommands,AndworshipatHisfeet;Joyfultheycome,AndwingtheirwayFromrealmsofdayTosuchatomb.Thenbacktoheaventheyfly,Andthegladtidingsbear;Hark!astheysoaronhigh,Whatmusicfillstheair.Theiranthemssay,"JesuswhobledHasleftthedead;Herosetoday."Youmortals,catchthesound,RedeemedbyHimfromhell;AndsendtheechoroundTheglobeonwhichyoudwellTransportedcry,"JesuswhobledHasleftthedead;Nomoretodie."Allhail,triumphantLord;WhosavesuswithYourblood!WidebeYournameadored,Oh,rising,reigningLord.WithYouwerise,WithYouwereign,Andempiresgain,Beyondtheskies'

THESAVIOR'SASCENSION

Liftupyourheads,yougates,andOprepare,Yourlivingorbs,youreverlastingdoors,TheKingofglorycomes!WhatKingofglory?HewhosemassivemightSubduedAbaddon,andtheinfernalpowersOfdarknessboundinadamantinechains,Who,wrappedinglory,withtheFatherreign,Omnipotent,immortal,infinite!'

"Then Jesus led them to Bethany, and lifting his hands toheaven, he blessed them.While he was blessing them, he leftthemandwastakenuptoheaven."Luke24:50-51

"Itwasnotlongafterhesaidthisthathewastakenupintotheskywhiletheywerewatching,andhedisappearedintoacloud."Acts1:9

'Itwas,indeed,ourLord'sascensionwhichunlockedthegatesofheaven, before shut upon us by our sins; which quenched theflaming sword, and discharged the mighty cherubim whichguardedParadisefromallaccesstomen.'-Barrow.

THESAVIORINHISASCENSION

Liftupyourheads,youeverlastinggates,AndgivetheKingofglorytocomein;WhoistheKingofglory?HewholeftHisthroneofgloryforthepangofdeath;Liftupyourheads,youeverlastinggates,AndgivetheKingofglorytocomein;WhoistheKingofglory?HewhoslewTheravenousfoethatgorgedallhumanrace!TheKingofglory,HewhosegloryfilledHeavenwithamazementatHislovetoman,

AndwithdivinecomplacencybeheldPowersmostilluminedbewilderedinthetheme.'-Young

ThedivinemissionofourblessedSavioronearth is,at length,accomplished;andthetimehascomewhenHemustascendonhigh to carryonHismediatorialwork in the courtsofheaven.Hislastwearyfootstepsfromthemangertothecrosshavebeentaken;His lastagonyhasbeenendured;Hehasbeennailed tothe accursed tree, and laid in the gloomy grave; He has risenagain in triumph, and appeared at different times to Hisdisciples, confirming their faith in Him as the Messiah, andpreparing them to be witnesses to all nations, of Hisresurrection andHismajesty.Having remained on earth fortydaysafterHisresurrection,andspokentoHischosenfriendsofthings pertaining to the kingdom of God, the salvation of thesoul,andthewelfareofthechurch,thehourhascomewhichHisownwords,utteredatdifferenttimes,mustbeaccomplished, 'IgountoHimthatsentMe.' 'IascenduntomyFatherandyourFather,andtomyGodandFourGod.''Igotoprepareaplaceforyou.'

THESAVIORLEADSHISDISCIPLESTOBETHANY. For thelast time Jesus gathers around Him His disciples, and gentlyleadsthemtoBethany,thesacredspotchosenforHisascension.'AndHeledthemoutasfarastoBethany.'WhatChristiandoesnotlovetocontemplatetheSaviorandHisdisciplesintheirlastvisit to Bethany, and listen to the farewell words ofHimwhocametoredeemtheworld?WiththeWordofGodinourhands,let us follow them as they go to the scene of the ascension.LeavingJerusalemtheywould,inallprobability,treadthesamepathonwhichtheyhadsofrequentlysetoutintheirvisitstotheMountofOlives.DescendingthevalleyofJehoshaphat, 'adeepandnarrowravine,whichrunsfromnorthtosouth,betweentheMount of Olives and Mount Moriah,' they would cross theKedron,andpassbytheGardenofGethsemane.

Hereletuspauseforamoment,andcontrastthisvisitwiththe

onemade by the Savior in that night of suffering, when, afterhaving instituted the sacramental supper and comforted Hisdisciples,Hecameoutwiththem,andwent,'asHewaswont,totheMountofOlives.'ThenhowdifferentwasitwithJesus!ThenhowexceedinglysorrowfulwasHissoul,whenHewentforthtobear the sins of aworld. And how severewereHis sufferings,whenprostratedonthegroundinthatdarknightofconflictandanguish,when the very sod beneathHimwasmoistened,with'great drops of blood' from His sacred body, and when theagonizingcrycamefromHislips,'OmyFather,ifitispossible,letthiscuppassfromme;nevertheless,notasIwill,butasYouwill!' Now, those terrible hours inGethsemane are past. Now,theSavior liftsupHisheadwithjoy.Now,hasHefinishedHisredeeming work. Now, is He about to return with shouts oftriumph to the mansions of bliss, to wear His crown ofmediatorialglory,tobehighlyexaltedattherighthandofGod.

Aswehavealreadyseen,HeleadsHisdisciplestoBethany,'thetownofMaryandhersisterMartha,' thehomeof love,aroundwhichsomanytenderandinterestingassociationscluster.HereHe had but recently given a proof of His divinity by callingLazarus from the grave; and now He gives another stillmoreglorious one in His own ascension to the heavenly home. HeshowsthatHeisnotonlytheresurrectionandthelife,butLordofheaven;yes,thatHeisexaltedfaraboveallheavens,thatHemightfillallthings.

InHisformervisittoOlivet,whenHewentouttoagonizethere,wehaveseenthatHepausedatthefootofthemountaininthegardenofGethsemane,andthattheplacewastoHimavalleyoftears;nowweseeHimascendingtheMountwhichbecomestoHimasceneofthemostrapturousjoy.HowwellisthelifeoftheChristianhererepresented.Tohimearthistrulyavalleyoftearsandtrials;butwhenheascendsMountZion-whenheriseswithJesustotheeverlastinghillsofParadise,alltearsshallbewipedawayandallsorrowsexcluded,whileheshallrejoiceinGodhisSaviorthroughalleternity.

Here,letuslearn,likeJesus,ourgreatExemplar,togoup,withour soulspossessed inpatience, from thevalleyofhumiliationandtears to themountof joyandglory.OurblessedLordandMasterhastaughtusbyHisownperfectexample,whichwearetocopy,thatthecrossisthewaytothecrown;thatourseverestearthlytrialsmaybecomeprecioussteppingstonestoheaven.AtthefootofOlivetHesuffers,Hedrinksofthebrookbytheway;onthetopofthesameMountHeliftsupHisheadwithjoy,Heascends with shouts of triumph to the heaven of heavens.Happy, indeed, are they, who, relying on the atoning work ofChrist forsalvation,arecryingtoGodfromthedepthsof theirafflictions;theywillsoonrisetotheMountofeternalpleasures.Conducted by angels, they will shortly be borne above thestormsanddarknessoftheselowerregionstothepeacefulandgloriousMount Zion, the City of the living God; the heavenlyJerusalem.

THESAVIORBESTOWSHISBLESSINGONHISDISCIPLES.Having reached the scene ofHis ascension the Savior attends,during the few moments He lingers on earth, to the spiritualwelfareofHisdisciples.Hedoubtless soothesandcheers theirheartsmadesorrowfulbythethoughtoftheirlosingHisbodilypresence, by promising them the Holy Spirit, and by othermanifestationsofHistenderregardforthem.Withoutstretchedarms He pours upon them His parting benediction. 'And HeliftedupHishandsandblessed them.'Howdelightful to thinkthatthelastwordsofJesusonearthwerethoseofmercy!ItwellsuitedthecharacterofHimwhowashenceforthtobea'mercifuland faithfulHighPriest' in the inner courts ofheaven, thus toleaveearth.Moses,beforeheascendedMountNebo,toviewthepromised land, and to be seen no more on earth, until hisreappearance on the mount of transfiguration, 'blessed thechildrenof Israel.'AndhereJesus, thegreatProphet likeuntoMoses, pronounces a blessing upon His chosen friends justbeforeHe is taken from them.This isHis delightfulwork.Hewas sent to bless us in turning away every one of us fromour

iniquities.

During His divine pilgrimage He had always been mindful toblessHis disciples; and even now, while He stands onMountOlivet, ready to be attended in His ascension to heaven bythousandsofHismightyangels,andtositdownattheFather'srighthandinglory,HeisstillengagedintheworkofpromotingthespiritualwelfareofHisfaithfulfollowersonearth.Insteadofbeing wholly occupied with the thought of His own gloriousascensionandexaltationtothethroneoftheuniverse,HethinksofthosefeebleoneswhomHeisleavinginaworldofsorrowandpersecution; and stretches outHis arms to bless them.Oh, tohavelistenedtoHisblessedwordsatthepartingmoment!WeretheynotlikethosepreciouswordsalreadyutteredbyHim?-'Letnot your heart be troubled.' 'I go to prepare a place for you.''Behold, I send thepromiseofmyFatheruponyou.' 'Iwill seeyou again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no mantakesfromyou.'

HolyJesus,YouhaveblessedYoursaintswithpeace.Your lastlookonearthwasoneoflove-Yourlastactoneofblessing.YouhaveredeemedJacob,andglorifiedYourselfinIsrael.Youhaveascendedtoheaven,fullofgraceandtruth.

ChristhavinglovedHisownwhowereintheworld,lovedthemunto the end.Hewas in the very act of blessingHis discipleswhenthecloudboreHimaway. 'Anditcametopass,whileHeblessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up intoheaven.' As long as their eyes could beholdHis glorified formborne heavenward they could doubtless discern Him stillblessingthem.HisbenedictionwasunfinishedwhenHelefttheworld,buttheworkhaseversincebeencarriedoninthecourtsofParadise-ontheMountZionabove.ThepromiseisstillmadegoodtotheChurch,'TheLordshallblessyououtofZion.''Iwillabundantly bless her provision.' 'I will satisfy her poor withbread. I will clothe her priests with salvation, and her saintsshallshoutaloudforjoy.''TheLordhasbeenmindfulofus:He

willblessus;HewillblessthehouseofIsrael:Hewillblessthehouse of Aaron. He will bless those who fear the Lord, bothsmallandgreat.'

O, adorable Savior, who is highly exalted at God's right hand,'look down from Your holy habitation, from heaven,' upon uswearypilgrims in this valley of tears; and crown uswith Yourblessing.Do,we beseech You, bless us out of Zion. CommandYourloving-kindnessintheday-time,andinthenightmayYoursong be with us. O that You would bless us indeed, with allspiritual and heavenly blessings from Your own unwastingfullness. 'Save Your people, and bless Your inheritance: feedthem also, and lift them up forever.' Be our constant Guidethroughabewilderingworld;andwhileweremainhere,leadustothestreamsofgrace-tothemountofordinances-tothefeastof fat things which You have there prepared, where our soulsmaybe refreshedwithYour richest blessing, until in deathwehear the joyful welcome to the skies, 'Well done, good andfaithfulservants;enterintothejoyofyourLord.'

'Gently,Lord,OgentlyleadusThroughthisgloomyvaleoftears,ThroughthechangesThou'stdecreedus,Untilourlastgreatchangeappears.OrefreshuswithYourblessing,OrefreshuswithYourgrace,MayYourmercies,neverceasing;FitusforYourdwellingplace.Whentemptation'sdartsassailus,Whenindeviouspathswestray,LetYourgoodnessneverfailus,LeadusinYourperfectway.OrefreshuswithYourblessing.Inthehourofpainandanguish,Inthehourwhendeathdrawsnear,Suffernotourheartstolanguish,Suffernotoursoulstofear.

OrefreshuswithYourblessing.Whenthismortallifeisended,BidusinYourarmstorest,Untilbyangelhandsattended,Weawakeamongtheblest.OrefreshuswithYourblessing.Othen,crownuswithYourblessing,ThroughthetriumphsofYourgrace;ThenshallpraisesneverceasingEchothroughYourdwelling-place.OrefreshuswithYourblessing.'

THESAVIORASCENDEDINTOHEAVEN.'Hewasreceivedupintoheaven,andsaton therighthandofGod.' 'ForChristhasnotenteredintotheholyplacesmadewithhands,whicharethefiguresof the true;but intoheaven itself,nowtoappear inthepresenceofGod forus.' 'Whohas gone intoheaven, and isonthe right hand ofGod.'He ascendedup far above all heavens,andentered thepalaceofJehovah, the thirdheaven- theplacewhere Godmanifests Himself in the most illustrious manner,andwhereHeisworshipedwiththemostprofoundreverencebyallthecelestialinhabitants.ItisnotforustodetermineinwhatparticularpartofJehovah'smightyempireheavenislocated.Ifithadbeennecessaryforoursalvationtohaveknownthis,He,who came from those heavenlymansions to reveal the will ofGodtoman,wouldalsohavefullyenlightenedourmindsonthispoint. It is sufficient for us to know that heaven is a place ofinconceivable glory and blessedness, the seat of the divinemajesty,wherethethroneofGodiserected,whereholyangelsdwellandadore,wherethespiritsofjustmenmadeperfectaresinging the songofMoses andof theLamb, andwhere all theredeemed, in glorified and immortal bodies, shall finally bebroughttobeforeverwiththeLord.

WhenJesusspoketoHisdisciplesofHisdeparturefromearth,HecalleditanascensiontoHisFatherandtheirFather,toHisGodandtheirGod.HearHis language furtheron thispoint: 'I

havecomeforthfromtheFather,andamcomeintotheworld;again, I leave the world and go to the Father.' 'And now, OFather, glorifyMewith the glorywhich I hadwithYou beforetheworldwas.'

FromMountOlivetChristactuallyreturnedtothebosomoftheFather- toHis original and eternal dignity. In the presence ofHiswonderingdisciplesHeascended to thegloriousplaceandcompanyfromwhichHeoriginallycame-to'thatplaceofallinsituation most high, in quality most holy, in dignity mostexcellent, in glorymost august; the inmost sanctuary of God'stempleabove,notmadewithhands;themostspecialpresence-chamberintheheavenlycourts.'AsHepassedfromthegazeofHisdisciples,Heimmediatelyenteredwithintheveil,theholiestofall,theholyplacesnotmadewithhands-into'thoseintimaterecesses of inconceivable and incommunicable glory, the placeof God's more especial presence and residence.' There Hisglorifiedbodynowis,andwillcontinuetobe,untilthetimesofrestitutionofall things,untilHeshallberevealedfromheavenwithHismightyangels,andwithpowerandgreatglory.

How it should rejoice us to know that our blessed Savior hasascended to heaven; that He is now seated on His gloriousthrone; and that He will soon come and gather us home toHimselfinthatbettercountry,whereweshallbeholdHimfaceto face, still clothed with that glorified body, which in HisinfiniteloveHeassumedforus,andshininginallHisineffablesplendoras theSunofRighteousness!Christ intendedthat thenewsofHisascensiontoheavenshouldcheertheheartsofHisdisconsolate disciples, when, on the morning of Hisresurrection,HedirectedtheweepingMarytogotothemwiththismessage fromHis lips; 'IascenduntomyFatherandyourFather, and to my God and your God.' May our souls berefreshedbythesewords,whilewethinkofthegloriousplacetowhichChristhasascended,andoftheendearingrelationwhichthe Father and the Son sustain to us in the bond of theeverlastingcovenant!

THE SAVIOR ASCENDED IN A TRIUMPHANT ANDGLORIOUS MANNER AND WAS RECEIVED WITH THEGREATEST ACCLAMATIONS IN THE COURTS ABOVE. 'Youhaveascendedonhigh,Youhave ledcaptivity captive.' 'God isgoneupwithashout,theLordwiththesoundofatrumpet.Singpraises to God, sing praises: sing praises unto our King, singpraises.' In the ascension of Christ we have amost illustriousdisplayofHis triumphoverallHisandour foes.Asnoneeverspoke likeJesus,sononeevertriumphedlikeHim.EvenwhileHewasextendedonthecross,asableedingagonizingvictim,inthe midst of the most severe conflict with the powers ofdarkness, He triumphed over sin, Satan, and death itself. Hecame fromthegrave in triumph,andnowasHeascends fromthe heights ofOlivet,He gives the clearestmanifestation, thatHe is still 'the Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty inbattle.' Having spoiled principalities and powers, and made ashowofthemopenly,triumphingovertheminHiscross,Heisnow received up into glory with a shout and the sound of atrumpet.

IfwearethetruefollowersofChrist,weshallalso,atthecloseofour earthly pilgrimage, triumphantly ascend to the realms ofglory.Byfaithinthatdivinebloodwhichwaspouredoutuponthe cross,we shall bemore than conquerors over all our foes.LikePaul,wemay,throughgrace,beenabledtosay inour lastmoments,whenangelsare ready toconductus tomansionsoffelicity in the skies, 'I have fought a good fight.' 'Thanks be toGod,who gives us the victory, throughourLord JesusChrist.'Or like Payson, we may exclaim, while contemplating ourearthlyconflictsnowabouttoceaseforever,'Thebattle'sfought,the battle's fought, and the victory is won! The victory is wonforever! I am going to bathe in an ocean of purity, andbenevolence,andhappiness,toalleternity.'ThenletusgirdontheChristianarmor,andfightunderthebannerofKingJesus,soshallwetriumphwithHimthroughall theagesofablissfuleternity.Wemayevennowadoptthelanguageofexultationand

praise;'ThanksbeuntoGod,whoalwayscausesustotriumphinChrist.'

WhataglorioushourwasthatfortheSavior,when,afterhavingfinished His work on Calvary, He ascended to His heavenlythrone!Withtheadmiringandadoringdisciplesontheheightsof Olivet, gaze on the solemn andmysterious scene. See Himrising majestically from the earth, until a bright cloud,emblematicoftheDivinepresence,receivesHimoutofthesightof beholders on earth. He is not alone in His ascension.Thousandsof angels attendHimwith songs of triumph to thethrone of God. In allusion to His glorious and triumphantascension the Psalmist says: 'The chariots of God are twentythousand,eventhousandsofangels:theLordisamongthem,asinSinai,intheholyplace.'WiththeeyeoffaithcontemplatetheSavior asHe is thus accompanied toHis Father's throne; andthink of the glory and triumph which crownedHim whenHeenteredheaven.ListentothesublimesongoftheheavenlyhostasthepearlygatesofthenewJerusalemareopenedfortheKingof glory to come in, and take possession of His kingdom andreceiveHis crown. 'Open up, ancient gates! Open up, ancientdoors,andlettheKingofgloryenter.WhoistheKingofglory?The Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord, invincible in battle.Openup,ancientgates!Openup,ancientdoors,andlettheKingofgloryenter.WhoistheKingofglory?TheLordAlmighty-heistheKingofglory.'

Now the arches of heaven resound with the sweetest music,while the praises of our all-conquering Emmanuel are thuscelebrated. Now every angel sounds on his golden harp thepraisesofChristourmightyKing; singsofHisgloriesandHistriumphs; and welcomes Him to the blessed regions ofimmortality. We believe the following scripture passage hasparticularreferencetothesolemnity,thejoy,andthetriumphofthat hour, when Christ, in human nature, passed through theeverlasting gates of glory, andwas seated at the right hand ofGod:'ThenIlookedagain,andIheardthesingingofthousands

andmillionsofangelsaround the throneand the livingbeingsandtheelders.Andtheysanginamightychorus:"TheLambisworthy-theLambwhowaskilled.Heisworthytoreceivepowerand riches andwisdomand strength andhonor and glory andblessing."

PraiseHimstill,youbrighthostsonhigh,whilesaintsjoinwithyouinextollingtherichgraceoftheLambwhowasslain.'WhenallarrayedinlightTheshiningConquerorrode,YouhailedhisrapturousflightUptothethroneofGod;AndwavedaroundYourgoldenwings,AndstruckyourstringOfsweetestsound.Thewarblingnotespursue,Andlouderanthemsraise;WhilemortalssingwithyouTheirownRedeemer'spraiseAndyou,myheart,Withequalflame,Andjoythesame,Performyourpart.'

THE SAVIOR ASCENDED TO OPEN THE GATES OF LIFEAND IMMORTALITYTOMAN.Now the riches and glories ofthecelestialParadisearefreelyofferedtous,andthoseshininggates on high are continually thrown wide open for ourentrance. No cherubim with flaming sword now stand at thegatesofParadisetoexcludeusfromentering in,andpartakingof the fruit of the tree of life, and drinking at the fountain ofimmortality.Nowwehave'boldnesstoenterintotheholiestbythe blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which He hasconsecratedforus,throughtheveil,thatistosay,Hisflesh.'Oyou,whoseheartsareabsorbedwiththepassingobjectsaroundyou,liftupyoureyestotheheavenlyCanaan.Seethisnewand

living way opened to that better land, by the ascension andexaltation of the Savior.Why should the fast-fading scenes ofearth engage so much of your affection, since there is aninfinitelynoblerinheritanceinheaven,towhichthereisnowsofreeandeasyanaccess?Whyshouldyouconfineyourviewstothis region of vicissitude, pain, and death, since the land ofimmortalityliesbeforeyouinallitsbeauty,richness,excellency,andattractiveness;andsincethecommandisgiven,'Arise,andpossesstheland?'

Whyshouldyouexcludeyourselvesfromthatworldwhereflowsthepureriveroflife,sinceahighwayhasbeenprepared,andthemessage proclaimed in your ears, 'Ho, every one that thirsts,cometothewaters!''Whoeverwill,lethimtakethewateroflifefreely.'Why shouldyouperisheternally, since theheavens areopened,andcrownsofgloryshiningforthefaithful?ByfaithinChrist seek an entrance into that happyworld,where youwillbehold the face ofGod our Savior in righteousness, and dwellforeverinHisgloriouspresence.

THESAVIORRETURNEDTOTHETHRONEOFHISGLORYTOTAKE POSSESSIONOF THEHEAVENLY INHERITANCEFOR US, AND TO PREPAREMANSIONS OF FELICITY FOROUR RECEPTION WHEN THE VOYAGE OF LIFE IS PAST.This is a soul-comforting thought to the believer, walking byfaithinaworldofsin,andsorrow,anddeath.HowcheeringtoknowthatwehaveaFriendonhigh,preparingforusthemostsublime joys!Christdidnotreturnto thecelestialmansions inHisownnamemerely,or forthesoleadvancementofHisownglory. No. When He made His triumphant entrance into theglorious sanctuaryabove, itwas that, asourgreatHighPriest,He might enter into the most holy place FOR us. 'Where theForerunnerhasenteredforus,evenJesus.'

InthoseheavenstowhichHeascendedfromMountOlivet,Heisnowpreparingforusmanymansionsoffelicity-manycrownsof glory- many garments of salvation- many songs of praise-

manypalmsofvictory;yes,infinitelymoreofheavenlygoodnessthan the mind of man can conceive. 'Oh, how great is Yourgoodness,whichYouhavelaidupforthosewhofearYou;whichYouhavewroughtforthosewhotrustinYoubeforethesonsofmen!'

THE SAVIOR ASCENDED ON HIGH THAT HE MIGHTBESTOWUPONUSTHEMOSTPRECIOUSGIFTS. 'When heascendedtotheheights,heledacrowdofcaptivesandgavegiftsto his people.' 'You have received gifts for men; yes, for therebellious also, that the Lord God might dwell among them.'Amongthesedivinefavors is thegiftof theHolySpirit,amostprecious fruit of the Savior's ascension. It was necessary thatChrist should enter into His heavenly glory before the HolySpirit should be given in an extraordinary measure. In thatbeautiful, consolatory discourse to His disciples on the eve ofHissuffering,ourSaviorremindsthemofthisimportanttruth.'It isexpedient foryouthatIgoaway: for ifIgonotaway, theComforterwill not come unto you; but if I depart, I will sendHim unto you.' The Spirit's operation was greatly restraineduntiltheSavior,inHisglorifiedhumanity,enteredtheheavenlysanctuary to appear in the presence ofGod for us.Hence it issaid by John, with reference to a certain occasion, 'The HolySpiritwasnotyetgiven,becauseJesuswasnotyetglorified.'

WhentheSaviorleftHissorrowingdisciplesaloneinthisvalleyof mortality, and returned to His Father and the glories ofheaven, how mindful was He of the promise He had madeconcerningHisblessedSpirit!Howsoonweretheheartsofthedisciples made glad under the gracious influence of thisHeavenly Comforter! How wondrously was He 'poured out'upon them on the day of Pentecost, when the words of theprophetsweresogloriouslyaccomplished!'Anditshallcometopassafterward,thatIwillpouroutmySpirituponallflesh;andyoursonsandyourdaughtersshallprophesy,youroldmenshalldreamdreams,youryoungmenshallseevisions:andalsoupontheservantsanduponthehandmaids inthosedayswillIpour

out no Spirit.' 'Iwill pourwater upon himwho is thirsty, andfloods upon the dry ground: I will pour my Spirit upon yourseed,andmyblessinguponyouroffspring.'

HowtruehastheSaviorbeentoHisword!Howoften, in latertimes,hasHeblessedHischurchwithremarkableoutpouringsofHisHolySpirit!Lookat thegreatrevivalsof religion,whichhavetakenplacesincethedaysoftheapostles;andyouwillstillseeineveryagetheblessedeffectsoftheSavior'sascension,andthe rich manifestations of His goodness. May the Holy Spritcontinuetobepouredoutuponusinthelargestmeasure,untiltheearthshallbefulloftheknowledgeoftheLord,asthewaterscoverthesea.

TheSpiritisgiventosupplytheSavior'sabsence,andtoapplytooursouls the redemption finishedonCalvary. It isHisblessedworktoglorifyJesus-totestifyofHim.'ButtheComforter,whois theHolySpirit,whomtheFatherwill send inmyname;Heshall teach you all things, and bring all things to yourremembrance,whatever Ihavesaiduntoyou.' 'Heshallglorifyme:forHeshallreceiveofme,andshallshowituntoyou.''ButwhentheComforterhascome,whomIwillsenduntoyoufromthe Father, even the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from theFather,Heshalltestifyofme.'ByHisdivineoperation'theloveofGodisshedabroadinourhearts;'andthroughHispowerweare renewed- sanctified- filled 'with all joy and peace inbelieving,'and'aboundinhope'ofablissfulimmortality.

The Spirit reveals the Savior to our souls in a manner thatrendersHimexceedinglyprecious inourestimation.HeshowsusHis excellence- the perfections ofHis divine nature, as thebrightnessoftheFather'sglory-Hispower,astheCreatorofallthings-Hiswisdom-Hisimmutability-Hiseternity.Heexhibitstous theamazing loveofJesus tosinners- thewondersofHisincarnation- the amiableness ofHis life on earth- the spotlesspurity ofHis character- theunparalleled sufferingsofHis life-thefruitsofHisdeath,resurrection,ascension,andintercession.

HeshowsusHissuitablenesstoourneedsassinners;pointsustoCalvary,andwhispersinourearsthecheeringtruth,thatwehave redemption through the blood of Jesus, even theforgivenessof sins.Hecomfortsusamidall the tribulations ofearth, by assuring us that our trials are but light andmomentary, by perfecting His strength in our weakness, bybringing to our remembrance themany preciouswords of theLordJesus,bycommunicatingtousthethingsofGod,byliftingourheartsabovetheworld,andbypointingustoahomeofrestandglorybeyondtheskies;wheretribulation,andanguish,anddeath,nevercome.Yes,byHisdivinepowerthusoperatingonour minds, He enables us to look far beyond the present; todirect faith's far-reaching eye to our Father's house, and thefountains of immortal life, flowing through those 'sweet fieldsbeyondtheswellingflood,' thesightofwhichmakesus longtobethere,thatwemayseeJesusasHeis,andtasteHisgoodnessontheshoresofthepromisedland.Oh,then-

'Descendfromheaven,immortalDove,StoopdownandtakeusonYourwings,AndmountandbearusfaraboveThereachoftheseinferiorthings.Beyond,beyondthislowersky,Upwhereeternalagesroll;Wheresolidpleasuresneverdie,Andfruitsimmortalfeastthesoul.'

Oh, Spirit of truth, come and enlighten my mind with aknowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus; andmay I know andchoosethewaytoeternallife.RevealtheSaviortomyviewinallthe beauty ofHis Person, the excellency ofHis character, andthe richness of His grace. Convince me of sin; show me mydanger; and leadme as an humble penitent to the foot of thecross,theonlyhiding-placefromthewind-theonlycovertfromthe tempest. There may I be enabled by Your aid, to see theburden ofmy sins sustained by the Redeemer whenHe hungupon the cross in agonies and death; andwith admiring eyes,

may I behold Him as my Savior, my Lord, and my God. LetJesusbeunspeakablyprecioustomysoul,while, throughYourassistance, I discover inHim an infinite fullness of grace, andtruth, andglory.Oh, comeandmakemy heart Your dwelling-place; be my Comforter in a world of tribulation; be myGuardian,mySanctifier,andmyGuide.Prepareme forall theeventsofmyearthlypilgrimage;andconductme,at length, totheblessedenjoymentoftheinheritanceofthesaintsinlight.

'BlessedSpirit!beautifymysoulWithhumblejoyandholyfear;Yourpowercanmakethewoundedwhole,Andbringeachgospelblessingnear.Descendanddwellwithinmyheart;TheSavior'simageletmebear;Thenbidmehencewithjoydepart,Andangels'blissforevershare.'

Blessed Jesus, from Your sacred throne in glory, shed on usYourHoly Spirit. Oh,mayHe come down 'like rain upon themown grass; as showers that water the earth;' and may Hisgracesdistillasthedew,enlightening,cheering,refreshing,andbeautifyingoursouls.MayweseektheLorduntilHecomesandrains down righteousness upon us. May we seek Your Spiritcontinually, knowing thatwithoutHimwe arehelpless; that ifanymanhasnottheSpiritofChrist,heisnoneofHis.BlessedbeYourname,YouhaveencouragedustoprayfortheSpirit,toaskHimoftheFather.'Ifyouthen,beingevil,knowhowtogivegood gifts unto your children; how much more shall yourHeavenlyFathergivetheHolySpirittothosewhoaskHim?'

IN THE ASCENSIONOF THE SAVIORHUMANNATURE ISADVANCED TO THE HIGHEST DIGNITY, HONOR, ANDFELICITY.Howcheeringtothebelieveristhethought,thatHewhoisboneofhisboneandfleshofhisflesh,isnowseatedonaheavenlythrone,andwieldsthescepterofuniversaldominion!HumannaturewasneversohonoredaswhenChristassumedit;

andneversoadvancedandennobledaswhenHeascendedwithittothemansionsofglory.Inheaven,ournature,inthePersonofJesus,isfarexaltedabovethatofseraphimandcherubim;forwe read of 'angels, and authorities, and powers being madesubjectuntoHim.'

Yes,Hewho,inHisincomparablelove,condescendedtoassumehumanity, and 'wasmadea little lower than theangels for thesufferingofdeath,'isnow'crownedwithgloryandhonor'aboveallthosebrightangelicmessengerswhostandinthepresenceofGod to perform His high commands. 'Being made so muchbetterthantheangels,asHehasbyinheritanceobtainedamoreexcellentnamethanthey.''ForuntowhichoftheangelsdidHeatanytimesay,YouaremySon,thisdayhaveIbegottenyou?Andagain, Iwillbe toHimaFather, andHe shallbe tomeaSon?' Here is amatter of wonder and admiration to saints aswell as to angels themselves; a mystery which all those holyintelligences around the throne above, are endeavoring, withtheir mighty energies, to unfold; a mystery which will be thewonder and the study of ceaseless ages. Humanity united todivinity, and raised above angels in dignity and honor! Howwonderful!

Whatanhonor is it tobeaChristian; tobe thusunited to theSon of God; to be redeemed by His precious blood; to beadvanced to such unspeakable dignity, and honor, andhappiness in heaven, to be brought even nearer the throne ofJehovah than those pure and excellent spiritswho have neversinned, and who have always been clothed with the mostillustriousmajesty!'ThishonorhaveallHissaints.'Whatasoul-entrancingthought!'Andwhat,inyonderrealmsabove,Isransomedmanordainedtobe?Withhonor,holiness,andlove,Noseraphmoreadornedthanhe.Nearestthethrone,andfirstinsong,Manshallhishallelujahsraise;

Whilewonderingangelsroundhimthrong,Andswellthechorusofhispraise.'

ONE GREAT Lesson THE ASCENSION OF THE SAVIORTEACHESUS, IS THEELEVATIONOFOURMINDS ABOVETHE TRANSITORY OBJECTS OF EARTH TO THEPERMANENTFELICITIESOFHEAVEN. 'SinceyouhavebeenraisedtonewlifewithChrist,setyoursightsontherealitiesofheaven, where Christ sits at God's right hand in the place ofhonor and power. Let heaven fill your thoughts. Do not thinkonly about things down here on earth.' It is the privilege ofbelieverstodonotbeonlyquickened togetherwithChrist,butmade to sit together with Him in heavenly places. When Heascendedtothemansionsofglory,wevirtuallyrosewithHimtothesamestateoffelicity.Heavenisnowourtrue,abidinghome.Whileonearthwearestrangersandpilgrims,farfromourfinalrest.Andwhilesuchisourconditionhere,shouldwenotoftenthinkofourheavenlyhome?Shouldnotheavenattractusmoreand more as we journey through life? Shall we still cleave toearth, since Christ has obtained eternal salvation for us, andpassedintotheheavenstoprepareawayforourentrance intothoseunendingjoysinthepresenceofGod?

Oh, let our best affections be placed on those spiritual anddivinethingsabove.Letthenoblestaspirationsofourmindsbeafteramore intimateknowledgeofJesus inHisascensionandsession at God's right hand. Let us look beyond this valley oftearsandkeepoureyes fixedon thatbettercountrywhere theSavior ever reigns in gloriousmajesty- where the fountains ofblisseverflow-wherethetreeoflifeeverspreadsitsdelightfulshadeandyields its immortal fruits-whereall isunendingjoy,andlove,andpeace,andfelicity!Oh!sweetabodeofpeaceandlove,Wherepilgrimsfreedfromtoilareblessed,HadIthepinionsofadove,I'dflytoyouandbeatrest.'

Let our hearts bemore andmore disentangled from the caresand temptations of the present life- let us live in theworld asthosewho are not of it- as thosewhose treasure is in heaven,andwhoseheartsaretherealso.TheneareraChristiancomestoheaventhelesshelovesoresteemstheworld;justasamarinerwhenheleavesport,thelandhehasleftbehindhimappearslessandlessinhisview,untilitseemstoshrinktoapointandatlasttotallydisappears.Ifwearequickenedintoanewandspirituallifeby thegraciousoperationof theHolySpirit, ouraffectionswillriseheavenward.Wewillbecontinually liftingupoureyesto the hills, fromwhere our help comes from, endeavoring tobring the realities of future, eternal thingsmore vividly beforeourminds,andtorealizeourinterestinthem.

Omysoul,riseabovetheseearthlyscenes;and,onthewingsoffaith,soartotherealmsoftheblessed,whereJesusisenthronedinunspeakableglory,reigningasthelife,thehope,thetreasure,andtheheadofbelievers.'Lookup,mysoul,towardtheeternalhills,Thoseheavensarefairerthantheyseem,There,pleasuresglideinitscrystalrills,There,notadregofguiltdefiles,Norguiltdisturbsthestream;Thereisnocursedsoil,notaintedspring,Norosesgrowonthorns,norhoneywearsasting.'

Blessed Jesus, we rejoice that You have accomplished oursalvation on earth, and ascended triumphantly into heaven toenter intoYour glory, to appear in the presence ofGod in ourbehalf,andtoprepareablissfulhomeforus.WebeseechYoutoshowusYourglory,andtoraiseourhearts,ourhopes,andourdesires, to that blessed world to which You have ascended. Omay our souls be daily rising, in holy thought, towards those'sweetfieldsarrayedinlivinglight,'wherethe'weepersceasetoweep,'andwheretheransomedoftheLordshallforeverobtainjoyandgladness.Mayour thoughtsbecomeheavenly, andourhearts be attuned to those songs with which the arches of

heavenshallresoundtoalleternity!'DeignfromYourglory,Savior,nowtoshedOnusYourquickeningSpirit'sinfluence,ThatrisenwithYou,ourheartswithstrongdesireMayseekthethingsabove,andjointhestrainOfseraphsthatsurroundYoursapphirethrone,Mingleoursongswiththeirs,until,inonetideOfharmony,thepealinganthemrollOvertheeternalhills,andwaftYourdeathlessfame.'

OmySavior,weanmyheartfromearth,andenablemetoplacemyaffectionon thingsabove.May Ibe truly risenandexaltedwith You. May I dwell with delight on the glories of Yourascension,andthehonorswhichwerebestoweduponYouwhentheportalsofblisswereopenedforYourentrance,andwhenavoice fromtheFather,said, 'Sitatmyrighthand,until ImakeYourenemies footstoolunderyour feet.'MayI rejoice toknowthatYoustillwearournatureontheheavenlythrone,andthatYouwillbeclothedwithittoalleternity,fortheadmiration,thejoy,andthehappinessoftheredeemed.

Prepare me for ascending to be with You in the mansions oflight, to behold Your matchless glory, and to sit with You onYourthrone.AsIpassalongthevalleyoflife,mayYourgraciouspresencegowithme;andwhenIstandonthebanksoftheriverofdeath,whilethescenesofearthareforevervanishingfrommyview, oh, may I hear You whispering in my ear the blessedwords,TodayshallyoubewithmeinParadise.

'Then,Savior,then,mysoulreceive,TransportedfromthisvalleytoliveAndreignwithYouabove;Wherefaithissweetlylostinsight,Andhopeinfullsupremedelight,Andeverlastinglove.'

THESAVIOR'SINTERCESSION

ButnowOneOffering,nevertoberenewed,Hasmadeourpeaceforever.ThisnowgivesFreeaccesstothethroneofHeavenlyGrace,Nomorebasefearanddarkdisquietude,Hewhowasslain-theAcceptedVictim-lives,AndintercedesbeforetheFather'sface.'

"Whothenwillcondemnus?WillChristJesus?No,forheistheonewhodiedforusandwasraisedtolifeforusandissittingattheplaceofhighesthonornexttoGod,pleadingforus."Romans8:34

"Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save everyonewhocomestoGodthroughhim.He lives forever topleadwithGodontheirbehalf."Hebrews7:25

'ItisbyHimthatwehaveouraccesstoGod,notonlybyvirtueofHismerits, but byHis continual act ofmediation: it isHe,that with the golden censer, at the golden altar before God,offersuptheincenseofourprayers,consecratedandperfumedbyHishand.'-Barrow.

THESAVIORINHISINTERCESSION.

NowbythethroneofGodHestands,Aloftthegoldencenserbears,Andoffers,withhighpriestlyhands,PureincensewithHispeople'sprayersWellpleased,theFathereyestheSon,Andsaystoeachrequest,"Itisdone.'-Montgomery.

One of the most pleasing and profitable themes that can be

presentedforthecontemplationoftheChristian,istheSaviorinHis intercessory work for us at the right hand of God. It iscalculatedtobeaperpetualsourceofjoytothebelieveramidalltheduties,thetrials,andtheconflictsofHisearthlycourse.Butthis subject is sometimes too much overlooked by professingChristians, and its value not sufficiently estimated. We dwellrepeatedly,andwithpeculiarsatisfaction,onthegrandeventsoftheSavior'slife;wetracewithfixedattentionHisfootstepsfromthemangertothecross;wethinkveryoftenof the lastdaysofHis divine pilgrimage; we dwell intently on the scenes of Hisagony, His trial, His crucifixion, His burial, His resurrection,andHisascension;butwetoooftenlosesightofHimasaPrieston the heavenly throne- as interceding for us within the veil.Now, while ourminds are engaged in devoutmeditation on asuffering Redeemer, we should also view Him with equalinterest as reigning and interceding for us in the courts ofheaven- as our Advocatewith the Father beforeHis throne ofrighteousness. We should fellow Him from the Mount of Hisascension to the unseen world, and behold Him at the righthandoftheFather,makingintercessionforourdailysins.

THE SAVIOR IS A COMPASSIONATE INTERCESSOR. Thisdelightful and endearing characteristic of the Savior as ourIntercessor, isexpresslyassertedintheScripture. 'Therefore,itwas necessary for Jesus to be in every respect like us, hisbrothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful andfaithfulHighPriestbeforeGod.He thencouldoffera sacrificethatwouldtakeawaythesinsofthepeople.''Andbecauseheishuman,heisabletodealgentlywiththepeople,thoughtheyareignorantandwayward.Forheissubjecttothesameweaknessesthey have.' 'This High Priest of ours understands ourweaknesses,forhefacedallofthesametemptationswedo,yethedidnotsin.'OurgreatHighPriesthasaperfectknowledgeofallourmiseries;forHehasHimselfemptiedthecupofhumanwoe.Havingexperiencedallthesinlessinfirmitiesofournature,Heknowshowtofeelforusinthosetrialswhichwearecalledtoendure in our passage through life. He was made perfect

throughsuffering.Hispathwaythroughearthwasstrewedwiththe thorns of affliction.Thewaves of the greatest sorrowwentoverHim inGethsemane and onCalvary. All thisHe enduredthatHemighthaveasincerefeelingofourinfirmities,andfinishtheworkofoursalvation.And,asnoonecancomprehend thegreatnessofHissufferings,sononecanfathomthedepthofHiscompassion.HehaslostnoneofHisimmensegoodnessandpityforussinceHehasleftthisworldofsorrow.Thoughexaltedatthe right hand of theMajesty in the heavens, His nature andaffections are still the same. Yes, He is still a mostcompassionateSavior-amostsympathizingHighPriest.

'ExaltedhighatGod'srighthand,AndLordofallbelow,ThroughHimispardoninglovedispensed,Andboundlessblessingsflow.AndstillforerringguiltymanAbrother'spityflows;AndstillHisbleedingHeartistouchedWithmemoryofourwoes.'

Letus rejoice thatwehaveacompassionateHighPriest in theheavens; and never fail to apply toHim for an interest inHismerciful intercession.This cheering truth should encourageustoexercisestrongfaithinHim,asourAlmightySavior.Inallthetrialsandtemptationsoflife,letusrepairtoHimwiththepleaofthePsalmist,'Lord,havemercyonme.SeehowIsufferatthehandsof thosewhohateme.Snatchmeback fromthe jawsofdeath.' Let us cleave more closely to our compassionateIntercessor,whenmost severely tossed upon the ocean of life,and when ready to sink beneath the foaming waves. Then wewilltasteandseethattheLordis,indeed,mercifulandgracious-then will we experience the sweetness of His promises. 'For Iwill be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins andtheiriniquitieswillIremembernomore.''Sing,Oheavens;andbejoyful,O earth; and break forth into singing,Omountains:for the Lord has comforted His people, and will have mercy

uponHisafflicted.'

THESAVIOR'SINTERCESSIONISEFFICACIOUS.ItsefficacyisfoundedontheatonementwhichwasmadeonCalvary.WhenChrist laid the foundation of our eternal redemption, by thepouring out ofHis blood upon the cross, andHis rising againfrom the dead, He entered with His own blood into the HolyPlace, even into heaven, as the great High Priest of ourprofession,toappearinthepresenceofGodforus.TheFathernow hears Him always in our behalf, for He has rendered aperfect obedience to all the Divine requirements. He hasmagnified the law,andmade ithonorable.Hehas finishedthework which the Father gave Him to accomplish for a fallenworld; and, in consequenceof this,He can say, respectingHisintercession for us: 'Father, I thank You that You have heardme.''IknowthatYouhearmealways.'

IfourSaviorwasheardonearthinthesupplicationsHeofferedwithstrongcryingandtears,whileencompassedwiththesinlessinfirmitiesofournature,willHenotnowbecontinuallybeard,while exalted far above all principality, andpower, andmight,and dominion, and crowned with the ineffable glories ofheaven?WillnoteverypleaberenderedmostefficaciousbythegreatnessanddignityofHisPerson-byHisrelationtoGod-bythelovewhichtheFatherhasforHimasHisonlybegottenSon,andthebrightnessofHisglory-bytherighteouspleawhichheevermakes-byHisbeingsetforthbytheFatherHimselfasthepropitiation for our sins- by His having performed all thecommands of theFather respecting the redemptionof a fallenworld-byHisholylifeofobedienceandsufferingsonearth-byHis agonies in Gethsemane, and His expiatory sacrifice onCalvary?

From a consideration of the prevalency of His intercession,ChristsaystoHisdisciples, 'WhateveryoushallasktheFatherinmyname,Hewillgiveyou.Hithertohaveyouaskednothinginmy name; ask, and you shall receive, that your joymay be

full.'HowefficaciousistheintercessionofourLordandSavior;andwhat richblessingshas itobtained forus! IthasprocuredthegiftoftheHolySpiritasourguide;sanctifier,andcomforter.Ithaseffectedthepardonofinnumerabletransgressions.Ithasreclaimedthebackslider,andsustainedmanyatempest-tossedanddespairingsoul.Ithasfurnishedthebelieverwithstrengthinthemidstofweakness,andenabledhimsuccessfullytorepelthe attacks of his spiritual foes. It has rendered his servicesacceptableinthesightofGod,andputgladnessinhisheart.Ithasopenedthegatesofheaventoaninnumerablemultitudeofransomed saints who have already passed from earth; and itsinfinite efficacy will forever preserve them in that holy andhappyabode,wheretheyarenowrestingwithAbraham,Isaac,andJacob,andsingingthesongsofsalvation,untoGodandtheLamb.

THESAVIORISOURONLYINTERCESSOR.'Ifanymainsins,wehaveanadvocatewiththeFather,JesusChristtherighteous.'Thatwehave Jesus as ourAdvocatewith theFather, pleadingour cause inheaven, is one of themost precious and cheeringtruthsinthewholeBible.

While in this world, where depravity universally prevails, andwheretheworkofsanctificationisincomplete,weareconstantlyliable to fall into sin, and grieve the Holy Spirit. And howfrequentlydosomeofthemosteminentsaintsactuallycommitsins of an aggravated nature! Hear the language of inspiredpenmen.'Forthereisnotajustmanuponearththatdoesgood,andsinsnot.''Innumerableevilshavecompassedmeabout,myiniquitieshavetakenholduponmesothatIamnotabletolookup; they are more than the hairs of mine head, therefore myheartfailsme.''OwretchedmanthatIam!whoshalldelivermefromthebodyofthisdeath?''Weliedowninourshame,andourconfusion covers us: for we have sinned against the Lord ourGod.'

Sometimesthewavesoftemptationaresomighty,anddashso

violently against the Christian, that he is overwhelmed, andready to give up all for lost. At such a season, while heremembers his sin, how unspeakable is his distress, until helooks again to the proper source of consolation! His soul isoverspread with fearful darkness, while conscience condemns;andSatan,hissubtleenemy,accuseshimbeforeGod.Thenbeisbound in affliction and iron- his soul is melted because oftrouble-heremembersGod,andistroubled.Heisafraidtolookup to His Heavenly Father. The thought of God's inflexiblejustice, and the horrors of the second death, fill him withdismay. All ismidnightwith his soul- a darkness thatmay befelt. Then he feels like David whenmost deeply distressed onaccount of sin: 'a sword is within his bones;' 'tears his food;'while his soul is cast down within him. While the shadow ofspiritual desertion thus overspreads his mind, he is ready tocomplaininthebitternessofhisanguishwiththetriedPsalmist;'Saveme,OGod,forthefloodwatersareuptomyneck.DeeperanddeeperIsinkintothemire;Ican'tfindafootholdtostandon. I am in deep water, and the floods overwhelm me. I amexhausted fromcrying forhelp;my throat is parchedanddry.Myeyesare swollenwithweeping,waiting formyGod tohelpme. 'Pull me out of the mire; don't let me sink any deeper!Rescueme from those who hate me, and pull me from thesedeep waters. Don't let the floods overwhelm me, or the deepwatersswallowme,orthepitofdeathdevourme.''Youhavelaidmeinthe lowestpit, indarkness, inthedeeps.Yourwrath liesharduponme,andYouhaveafflictedmewithallYourwaves.''Ihear the tumult of the raging seas as your waves and surgingtidessweepoverme.'

Now, when a Christian has deeply fallen into sin, and isexperiencing all that distress of mind consequent upontransgressing God's holy and righteous law, the thought of anintercedingSavior,adivineAdvocatewithGod,istheverythingcalculatedtobanishdarknessandsorrow,andbringsolidpeaceandjoytohismind.Theremembranceofthesepreciouswords,brought home to his soul by the Holy Spirit, saves him from

despair; 'ifanymansins,wehaveanadvocatewith the father,JesusChrist the righteous.'Howdeliciously does his soul feedupon these words; they are the joy and rejoicing of his heart.Nowhe is enabled to confess his sinswith tears of penitentialsorrow,andtolookupwardswithconfidence,rememberingthathehasanAdvocatewiththeFatherinthecourtsofheaven-thatJesustherestandstopleadwithGodforhim-thatHeisalwaysthere topresent thememorialsofHisdeathbefore theFather,and to ask Him, that for the sake of the atonement made onCalvary,hissinsmaybeforgiven,thejoysofsalvationrestored,andtheloving-kindnessofourGodcontinuedtohim.Nowdoesthe sorely afflicted saint feel how precious Christ is as anAdvocatewiththeFather.Nowhopereturnsoncemore;theSunofRighteousnessshines;andthetempest-tossedpilgrimofZionagain enjoys the rest and peace which Jesus gives, and thesmilesofHeaven.

'ThetremblingsinnernowCanboldlypleadwithGod;AndmercycanbestowThepardonboughtwithbloodYourtruth,whichneverfails,Ablessedassurancegives;ForChristtheLordprevails,Andhighinglorylives.Helives,tointercede;TosendHisSpiritdownTohelpHispeople'sneed,AndallHismerciescrown.'

THESAVIOR'SINTERCESSIONISPERPETUAL.HeeverlivestointercedeforallthosethatcomeuntoGodthroughHim.'Heever lives to make intercession for them.' His priesthood isunchangeable. 'But thisman, becauseHe lives forever, has anunchangeable priesthood.' Christ is made a Priest after 'thepowerofanendlesslife.'

UndertheOldTestamentdispensation,incense,a'richperfumemade of sweet spices, was commanded to be offeredmorningand evening continually. Thiswas called 'a perpetual incense,'andtypifiedthecontinualintercessionofourRedeemer,aswellas pointed to the infinite merits of His sacrifice to God- asacrificeofasweet-smellingsavor.TheintercessoryworkoftheSaviorwillcontinuewithoutintermission,untilalltheredeemedare presented before the throne, as the perfection of Hismysticalbody-as'thefullnessofHimthatfillsallinall.'Itwillreachintoeternity.Itwillcontinuethroughtheceaselessagesofglory. The continuance of the happiness and holiness of theredeemedwillthenbethegreatsubjectofthisintercession.

ThehighpriestsunderthelawenteredbutonceayearintotheHolyofHolies,butourgreatHighPriestforeversitsinthemostholy place on high, that He may render His intercessionperpetual, and give continual efficacy to His atoning sacrifice.Yes, in the inner courts of heaven He ever appears in thepresenceofGodinourbehalf;livingtointercedeforus-topleadforthepardonofourdailysins-toprocureforusstrengthinthehouroftemptation-toanswertheaccusationsofouradversary,the devil- to render our services acceptable in the sight ofHeaven- to bless uswith ample communications ofHis grace-and to send us theHoly Spirit, that byHis divine and savinginfluence,spirituallifemaybeimpartedtooursouls,ourgracesquickened,ourspiritsrefreshed,edified,andcomfortedamidallthetribulationsoftheworld.

How happy they who have a saving interest in the perpetualintercessionofourgreatHighPriest!TheyaretheobjectsofHissupreme regard. Their names are engraved upon the palms ofHis hands- their ways are continually before Him. The HolySpirit is given to them- the love of Emmanuel pervades theirhearts- they rejoice in theLord always- their souls are feastedwiththebountiesofdivinegrace-theyeatofthehiddenmanna,anddrinkofthelivingwater.Theirsoulsarepurified,andtheiraffections sanctified and elevated to the throne of God. They

know that their Redeemer ever lives for them in the courts ofParadise.ByfaiththeyseeHimstandingatthealtarof incenseasthegreatHighPriest,withHisgoldencenserfullofincense,to offer itwith the prayers of all saints, upon the golden altarwhichisbeforethethrone.

Thisinspirestherewithalivelyhope,andenablesthemtocomeboldly unto the throne of grace. Like the Psalmist, when Godhad enlarged his heart, they now run in theway of the divinecommandments, favored with many a sweet foretaste of theeverlasting pleasures of the redeemed in glory, until they arecarriedbyangelstothecelestialrealms,wheretheintercessoryprayeroftheSavior is fulfilled, 'Father,IdesirethatthosealsowhomYouhavegiventome,bewithmewhereIam,thattheymaybeholdmyglorywhichYouhavegivenme.'

Oureternal safetyconsists inJesusever living to intercede forus.WhileHishandsareraisedinprayer,weshallprevailoverallour foes- our spiritual life will be continued- and we shall atlength cast anchor in the peaceful haven of a blissfulimmortality. 'Because I live, you shall live also.' Let us thenentrust our cause to Jesus, our great High Priest, who haspassed intotheheavens.Hewillnot fail toplead itcontinuallyandsuccessfully in the innercourtsof thecelestial temple.HiseverlivingtointercedeforusinthepresenceofGod,showsthatHissacrifice forsinshasbeenacceptedby theFather- thatHehas overcome death, the grave, and hell- that as the Prince ofLifeHeholds inHishandsthekeysof the invisibleworld, andcanopenthedoorsofheaventoallwhobyfaithinHisbloodareknockingforadmissionintotheregionsoflightandfelicity.Oh,itisahappythought,thatinthosebrightcelestialcourtsabove,JesusourfaithfulandmercifulHighPriesteverlivestosprinklethebloodofHis atoning sacrifice upon themercy-seat, and tocover it with the cloud of incense which arises fromHis ownsacrificialofferinguntoGod,thatoursinsmaybecovered,thatwemaybe freed from the cursesof the law, and that, throughHismediation,ourpersonsandservicesmaybeacceptedinthe

sightoftheeverlastingFather!Whatsoundsmoreanimatingintheearsofbelieversthanthedeclaration,'Heeverlivestomakeintercessionforthem?'

Precious truth! Should it not establish us on an immovablefoundation? Should it not fill our hearts with joy unspeakableand full of glory? Should it not call forth new songs of praiseuntoourGod?Should itnotcauseustodwelldaily insublimeandholymeditationonthehomeoftheblessedonesinheaven,where Jesus ever lives, and reigns, and pleads onHis priestlythrone,andwhereallislove,andpeace,andnever-endingbliss?Shoulditnotleadustoexultwiththeapostleovereveryfoethatwould now condemn us in the sight of God? 'Who is he thatcondemns?ItisChristthatdied,yes,rather,thatisrisenagain,who is even at the right hand of God, who also makesintercessionforus.'

'TisJesusdiedtosave,'TisJesuslivestobless;OnhighHedwells-thesinner'sFriend,TheLord,ourrighteousness.Then,oh,mysoul,rejoice,ExtolYourSavior'sname;MakementionofHisdyinglove,AndcelebrateHisfame.Heclaimsyourheart,yourlove;HeclaimsyouforHisownOh,castyourselfinwillingbondsBeforeHisheavenlythrone.'

IN HEAVEN THE SAVIOR INTERCEDES FOR US BYPRESENTING THE MEMORIALS OF HIS SACRIFICEBEFORE THE THRONE. The manner of His intercession bypresentingHissacrificebeforeGod,was typifiedby theJewishhigh priest sprinkling the blood of the sacrifice on themercy-seat, in themostholyplace.Christappears in themidstof theheavenlythroneastheLambthatwasslain.John,inhissublime

visionof thecelestialworld, says: 'AndIbeheld,and lo, in themidstofthethrone,andofthefourbeasts,andinthemidstoftheelders,stoodaLambasithadbeenslain.'Hisintercessionisa continual memorial of His vicarious death. He continuallypresentsthemeritsofHisbloodbeforeGod,andpleads forussinners.TheFatherwillnotcondemnanysinnerwhonowrelieson the infinite merits of the Redeemer's death. All is nowpacified. The blood of Christ's atoning sacrifice is sprinkleduponthemercy-seat;andsinnersmaynowapproachuntoGodandliveforever.

THE SAVIOR INTERCEDES FOR US BY PRESENTING OURNAMESBEFORETHEFATHER,WITHTHEMOSTTENDERAFFECTION,ASOURREPRESENTATIVE.OnthegreatDayofAtonement, when the high priest entered into the most holyplace,heborethenamesofthetwelvetribesofIsrael,engravedupon twelve precious stones, in the breastplate of judgmentupon his heart. So Jesus, the faithful High Priest, andrepresentative of His spiritual Israel, bears the names of allbelieversuponHisheart,whileintercedingforthemwithintheveil,intheheavenlysanctuary.Whataninspiringthought!Howgreat the privilege of the true child of God! His name isaffectionately remembered before God by our merciful HighPriest in the heavens. The promise of Christ is, 'He thatovercomes, the same shall be clothed in white clothing; and Iwill not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I willconfesshisnamebeforemyFather,andbeforeHisangels.'

How blessed are those who are have a saving interest in thisintercession! Theworldmay despise them; but Jesuswill loveandhonorthem.Inallcircumstancesandconditionsinlife,theyareeverpreciousinHissight.TheylivenearHisheart;theyareset as a seal upon it; they are engraved on the palms of Hishands,andcarriedinHisbosom.TheyareHispreciousjewels;andwilleveradornHismediatorialcrown.Hislovingkindnesswillneverdepartfromthem;norwilltheirnameseverbeerasedfrom the book of life. 'Behold, I have engraved you upon the

palmsofmyhands;yourwaysarecontinuallybeforeme.'

Arise,mysoul,arise;Shakeoffyourguiltyfears;ThebleedingSacrificeInmybehalfappearsBeforethethronemySuretystands,MynameiswrittenonHishands.'

ONEOFTHEGREATBLESSINGSFORWHICHTHESAVIORINTERCEDESIS,THATWEMAYBEPRESERVEDFROMTHEEVILOFTHEWORLD. 'Ipraynot thatYoushould take themoutof theworld, but thatYou shouldkeep them from the evilone.' 'Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save everyonewhocomestoGodthroughhim.He lives forever topleadwithGodontheirbehalf.'Beforehereachestheblissfulshoresoftheheavenly Canaan, the Christian pilgrim is compelled to passthrough a land stained by sin, where he finds a thousand evilinfluences thrown around his pathway, tending to draw himfromGod.Now,Jesusprays,thatwemaybedeliveredfromallevil, and especially from the assaults of Satan, the prince ofdarkness.InthewordswhichChristaddressedtoPeter,wehavea very explicit allusion to the intercession that ismade for uswhentheWickedOneisendeavoringtodrawusfromthepathwhichleadstothejoysofheaven.'Simon,Simon,behold,Satanhas desired to have you, that hemay sift you as wheat; but Ihaveprayedforyou,thatyourfaithfailnot.'ThusisourSavior,in His intercessory work before the throne, exercising thetenderest concern for our preservation from all evil, and thecontinuanceofourChristiangraces,untilwecometoenjoythesunshineofeternalglory,andtobeforeverbeyondthereachofalltheevilofthispresentworld.

SALVATIONTOTHEUTTERMOSTISANOTHERGLORIOUSFRUIT OF THE PERPETUAL INTERCESSION OF THESAVIOR. 'Wherefore He is able also to save them to theuttermost,whocomeuntoGodbyHim,seeingHeeverlivesto

makeintercessionforthem.'Wherecanwefindmoresustainingand soothingwords?Oh, blessed and cheering truth- that ourdivineIntercessorisabletosavetotheuttermost!

OurRedeemer is describedby theprophet as being 'mighty tosave.' He is able to save to the uttermost because he is themightyGod, the everlasting Father, the Prince of peace.He isable to save to the uttermost because He has, by His atoningwork on the cross, made reconciliation for our iniquities, andremovedeverybarrierinthewayofouraccesstoGod.Heisableto save to the uttermost because He ever lives to present thememorialsofHissacrificebeforeGodcontinually,asacompletesatisfactionforallthesinswedailycommit.

Herethenissalvationforthevilesttransgressors.Lookup,youawakenedandanxiousone,whosesinsareasscarlet-aburdentoo heavy for you to bear.Here is salvation for you. Salvationfromsinandwrath-acomplete,eternal,glorioussalvation!Youmaynowbeinthehorriblepitandthemiryclay;buttheblessedarmofourgreatIntercessorcanraiseyouup,andputthenewsong of salvation in yourmouth. Youmaybe one of the vilesttransgressorsontheearth,yetHecanbringdeliverancetoyoursoul, and procure the remission of all your sins, though theymayhavebeencommittedwith increasingaggravationthroughmany a year. Then direct your troubled eyes to Jesus,remembering that He ever lives to intercede for us; that Hissalvation is to the very uttermost; and that it is still Hisdelightfulworktosavesoulsfromdeath,andtohideamultitudeofsins.

'TheLordofLife,withglorycrowned,Onheaven'sexaltedthrone,ForgetsnotthoseforwhomonearthHeheavedHisdyinggroan.ThepromisedjoyHethenobtainedWhenHeascendedhence,UpfromthegravetoGod'srighthand

ASaviorandaPrince!HisglorynownotongueofmanOrseraphbrightcantell,YetstillthechiefofallHisjoys,Thatsoulsaresavedfromhell.'

THE SAVIOR INTERCEDES FOR THE FINALGLORIFICATIONOFTHESAINTS.'Father,IdesirethatthosealsowhomYouhavegivenmebewithmewhereIam;thattheymay beholdmy glorywhichYouhave givenme.'Here,we seewhatisthewillofourblessedSaviorrespectingus.ItisthatwemaybewithHimintheheavenlyhome,tobeholdHismatchlessglory,andtorejoicewithfull,unendingjoyinHispresence.Andassoonasourworkonearthisaccomplished,andwearefullypreparedforthejoysofheaven,weareremovedhence.WefallasleepinJesus;wedeparttobewithChrist;tobeholdHimfaceto face, and to enjoy through heaven's unclouded day, the fullmanifestationsofHisamazing love.ThenwillHis intercessoryprayerbeanswered;thenwillwetrulybeholdHistranscendentglory,andbeforeverwithHim.

What joy should this impart to us in prospect of death! Andwhat consolation should it administer to those who aremourning the loss of pious friends! This thought is beautifullyillustrated by an excellent writer, who says: 'When our piousfriendsaretakenfromus,weareapttogivewaytotheviolenceofour feelings, and tomournas if a sad calamityhadbefallenthem. But should we not consider, that the event which wedeplore,istothemunspeakablegain,theendoftheirfaith,andthe completion of their hope? They have gone to behold Himwhomthey love,andtorejoiceforever inHispresence.Shouldwenot remember that, in this case, theprayers ofChrist haveprevailed over our wishes and entreaties? For why have theydied at this time?Has death come by chance, or by the blindoperation of natural causes? Have they fallen without specialappointment?HasGodnoconcerninwhathastakenplaceuponearth?IfnotasparrowperisheswithouttheknowledgeofGod,

still less can it be supposed that a holyman leaves the worldwithoutHis call. His death is the answer of the Father to theprayer of His Son. It is the means of introducing into thepresence of theSavior, and into the embraces ofHis love,Hisdeardisciples,forwhomHeshedHispreciousblood.Hedesiresthat they should be with Him, and this messenger is sent toconduct them to their home.This is the reason that our tears,and sighs, and fervent supplications,wereofnoavail; forhowcould they succeed in opposition to the prayer of the all-powerful Intercessor! This is a pleasing view of the death ofbelievers.Itshowsusthatitisindeedablessingtothem;and,asit is calculated tomoderate our sorrow, so it should make usprayfortheirlife,withentireresignationtothewilloftheHeadoftheChurch.'

THETHOUGHTOFTHESAVIOR'SINTERCESSIONSHOULDEXCITE US TO OFFER PRAYERS TO GOD, AS THEY AREACCEPTED IN THENAMEOF THE GREAT INTERCESSOR.PrayeristhemotionofourrenewedheartstowardsGod.ItliftsthesoultoHiminsweetandheavenlycommunion. 'UntoYou,OLord,doIliftupmysoul.'Itcallsdownuponusthechoicestblessingsofheaven.ItbringsourspiritsnearthethroneofGod,and fills themwith inexpressible delight. It elevates our viewsand affections far above a world of sensual and perishingenjoyments.IntheScripture,prayeriscalledabreathingaswellasacry. 'Youhaveheardmyvoice;donothideYourearatmybreathing,atmycry.' It is thevitalbreathof theChristian.Notrue child of God can live without it. If we have the spirit ofadoption,wewillbeoftencrying,'Abba,Father.'

Now, the intercession of Christ should cause us to come withconfidence to the throne of grace. The inspiring thought of aneverlivingandsympathizingHighPriestintheheavens,whoisthere, intercedingforusbypresentingourprayersbeforeGod,led the apostle to draw the noble inference, 'So let us comeboldly to thethroneofourgraciousGod.Therewewillreceivehismercy, andwewill find grace tohelpuswhenweneed it.'

And ifwewould find acceptance in the sight ofGod,wemustofferourprayersinthenameofChrist.Weare'acceptedintheBeloved.'OurprayersmustbeputintothegoldencenserwhichChrist, as the angel of the everlasting covenant, holds in Hishands; and they will then be presented by Him with muchincense, and acceptance before the throne of God. Thischaracteristic of ourLord's intercession is forcibly representedin the Revelation. 'Then another angel with a gold incenseburner came and stood at the altar. And a great quantity ofincense was given to him to mix with the prayers of God'speople, to be offered on the gold altar before the throne. Thesmoke of the incense, mixed with the prayers of the saints,ascendeduptoGodfromthealtarwheretheangelhadpouredthem out.' Our prayers can never come up with acceptancebefore God, unless they pass through the hands of Christ, theAngel of the everlasting covenant, the only Mediator betweenGodandman,whoseinfinitemeritsarecontinuallyrisingupinacloudoffragrantincensebeforethethroneofheaven.

Letushighlyesteemthisgreatprivilegeofprayinginthenameofan intercedingSavior, andbemoreengaged in sodelightfuland profitable an exercise. Let us be daily expressing thesincerestdesiresofoursoulstoHim,whoseeariseverreadytohearus,whoseeyeisalwayswatchingoverus,andwhosehandis ever stretched out to bless and save us. We are stronglyencouragedtocometothethroneofgracewithboldness,sinceJesus theSonofGod,ourgreatandsympathizingHighPriest,haspassedintotheheavens,toliveandactforusinthecapacityofanIntercessor.

Wouldyounow tasteand see thatGod is good?Thencome tothethroneofgraceinthenameofJesus.Wouldyoureceivetheremissionofallyoursins?Thencometothemercy-seat.Wouldyou obtain the inestimable blessings of the better covenant?ThencomebyprayertoHimwhoisthegloriousAdministratorofthiscovenant,andbywhomgraceandtruthareextendedtotheworld.Would youbeprepared for thepure, andholy, and

sublime joysofheaven?Thencomebyprayer toHimwhohasgonetopreparemansionsforusinourFather'shouseabove.

We should keep our heart in a continual praying frame, andcome to the throne of grace with confidence, perseverance,fervency,anddeepreverence,dependingontheassistanceoftheHolySpirit.Wemustcomewithholyaffections, relyingon thesacrifice of Christ, and viewingHim as our Intercessor beforethe throne. Then will the light of God's countenance be lifteduponus,andHewillgraciouslyhearandanswerus.Thesacredcommandis: 'Watchandpray;' 'Praywithoutceasing.'Christiseverreachingoutthegoldencensertowardsus;andwaitingtopresent our prayers to God the Father, and to perfume themwithHis'muchincense.'

Letusbemuchengagedintheholyexerciseofprayerinseasonsofaffliction,inthedayoftrouble,inthehouroftemptation,andintimesofspiritualdesertion.'Howsweetly,'saysLeighton,'canthe soul retire into Him, and repose in Him, in the greateststorms! I know nothing that can much dismay him who canbelieve and pray. Continuing always in prayer. If afraid offainting,yes,ifatthepointoffainting,thisrevivesthesoul,anddrawsinnolessthanthestrengthofGod.'

LetusrejoicethatwehavesuchanIntercessor inheaven;Onewhopraysforus,thatourfaithmaynotfail;Onewhopresentsourpetitionsbeforethethrone;Onewhohasencouragedustocomewith boldness to the throne of grace; One whose will isthatwemaysoonbewithHimwhereHeis;thatwemaybeholdHis glory. Aswe journey towards our heavenly home,maywespend a part of every day in pouring out our hearts incommunion with God through our only Mediator andIntercessor;andwhenthetimeofourdepartureisathand,maywebefoundbreathingoutoursoulstoourHeavenlyFather,inearnestprayer,untiltheverysunshineofParadisegladdensourweary spirits- until we stand on those blissful hills which areencircledwith rays of heavenly glory, and ofwhichGod is the

everlastinglight.

'Prayeristhesoul'ssinceredesire,Unutteredorexpressed;ThemotionofahiddenfireThattremblesinthebreast.Prayeristheburdenofasigh,Thefallingofatear,Theupwardglancingofaneye,WhennonebutGodisnear.PrayeristhesimplestformofspeechThatinfantlipscantry;PrayerthemostsublimestrainsthatreachTheMajestyonhigh.PrayeristheChristian'svitalbreath,TheChristian'snativeair;Hiswatchwordinthehourofdeath,Heentersheavenwithprayer.Prayeristhecontritesinner'svoice,Returningfromhisways,Whileangelsintheirhymnsrejoice,Andcry,"Beholdheprays!"OYoubywhomwecometoGod,Thelife,thetruth,theway,ThepathofprayerYourselfhastrod,Lord,teachushowtopray.'

IN THE INTERCESSION OF OUR SAVIOR AT THE RIGHTHAND OF GOD, WE HAVE A MANIFESTATION OF THEGREATESTLOVE.ThesamedivinelovethatcausedHimtolaydownHis life forus sinners, still constrainsHim, in a state ofglory, tocarryon thedesignof salvation- tomake intercessionfortransgressors.Hisloveforusissostrongandconstant,thatamidallthesublimejoysofParadise,thedelightofHisFather,the adoration of angels, and the songs of the redeemed, HeneverforgetstopleadthecauseofoursoulsbeforethethroneofGod.Oh, thegraceofour intercedingRedeemer,ourAdvocate

withtheFather!Howrichandboundless!Mayitbethesinceredesire of ourhearts to knowmore andmore about the loveofJesus, in His intercession, that we may be filled with all thefullnessofGod.AdorableRedeemer,weblessYouforthegreat lovewhichYouhavemanifestedintheperformanceofYouratoningworkforaworldoftransgressors.Youhavenotonlydiedforoursins,butlivetopleadourcauseinheaven,thatwemaybesavedbyYourlife.WerejoicethatYouareanable,compassionate,righteous,andprevalentIntercessor.Oh,mayweexperiencetheblessingsof Your intercessory work, and have an interest in those all-prevailingprayerswhichYouoffertotheFather,intheheavenlysanctuary.BeourAdvocateonhigh;continuallypleadourcausebeforethethrone.Andoh,whenourlastearthlyconflictispast,may we reach those blessed realms, where our griefs shall bechanged to songs, and the prayer answered, with respect toourselves, 'Father, I will that those alsowhom you have givenmebewithmewhereIam;thattheymaybeholdmyglory.'

'TisJesuspleadsHispeople'scause,Beforetheeternalthrone;PresentsthemeritsofHisblood,AndclaimsthemforHisown.Oh!foralively,vigorousfaith,Tofeelthisblessingmine;Makeme,ohLord,ofsavinggraceAmonumentdivine.Father!beholdmeinYourSon;Oh!sendYourSpiritdown,Tofitmeforeternaljoys,AndsealmeforYourown.

THESAVIOR'SCOMING

'Thedayofwrath,thatdreadfuldayWhenheavenandearthshallpassaway!Whatpowershallbethesinner'sstay?Howshallhemeetthatdreadfulday?When,shrivelinglikeaparchedscroll,Theflamingheavenstogetherroll,Andlouderyet,andyetmoredread,Swellsthehightrumpthatwakesthedead?Onthatday,thatwrathfulday,Whenmantojudgmentwakesfromclay,BeYou,OChrist!thesinner'sstay,Thoughheavenandearthshallpassaway.'

'Behold,Hecomeswithclouds;andeveryeyeshallseeHim.''Forwemustallappearbeforethejudgment-seatofChrist.'

'Thereseemsnoevent,thecontemplationofwhichismorefittedto still the spirit unto seriousness, or bring it up to the highresolvesofChristianity, than the coming advent of the Savior-anadventononesideofwhich lieall therecollectionsof time,andontheothersidealltheretributionsofeternity.'-Chalmers

THESAVIORINHISSECONDCOMING.

'Tisdone:againtheconqueringChiefappears,Inthedreadvisionofdissolvingyears;Hisvesturedippedinblood,Hiseyesofflame,TheWordofGodHiseverlastingname;Thronedinmidheaven,withcloudsofgloryspread,Hesitsinjudgmentonthequickanddead;Strongtodeliver;saints!yoursongsprepare;RushfromyourtombstomeetHimintheair.Butterribleinvengeance;sinners!bowYourhaughtyheads,thegraveprotectsnotnow;HewhoaloneinmortalconflicttrodThemightywine-pressofthewrathofGod,ShallfillthecupoftremblingtoHisfoes,

Theunmingledcupofunexhaustedwoes;Theproudshalldrinkitinthatdreadfulday,Whileearthdissolves,andHeavenisrolledaway.-Montgomery.

InHismostbeautifulandtouchingvaledictorydiscoursetoHisdisciples on the eve of His suffering, our blessed Saviorgraciouslyassured them, thatHewas going toprepare aplacefor theminHisFather'shouse,andthatHewouldcomeagainand receive them to Himself, that they might be always withHim, to behold His glory, and to receive that crown ofrighteousness which fades not away. And in the joyous daywhen, from Mount Olivet, He ascended to heaven in thepresence of His disciples, who were looking so steadily andearnestly afterHim asHe entered into the bright cloudwhichreceived Him from their sight, His second coming was thusannounced by two angels in white apparel, who appeared tograce the solemn and triumphant scene: 'You men of Galilee,whydoyoustandgazingupintoheaven?ThissameJesuswhoistakenupfromyouintoheaven,shallsocomeinlikemannerasyouhaveseenHimgointoheaven.'

In theplainestandmoststrikingmannerhasdivinerevelationbrought before our view the second coming of our Savior,describing it as connected with an exhibition of the greatestgrandeur, power, majesty, terror, and glory. It is an event ofconspicuousprominenceinthesacredvolume;anditdemandsourmostcarefulandseriousconsideration.WherecanwefindamoresublimethemeofcontemplationthanthatwhichexhibitstheSonofMan,theLordofglory,descendingfromheavenwitha shout,with the voice of the archangel, andwith the trumpetcall of God- revealed in flaming fire- attended with all Hismighty angels- seated on the throne of His glory- calling thedeadfromtheirtombs,andchangingtheliving-pouringafloodofvengeanceonthosewhoknownotGod,andwhoobeynottheGospel;andbestowingtheunfadingcrownofrighteousnessonamultitude that no man can number, redeemed out of every

kindred,andtongue,andpeople,andnation!Itisanevent,too,which deeply concerns us all- a scene which we shall witnesswith triumphant joy, or indescribable terror- a scene from thebeholding of which we shall rise to the realms of bliss, or godownintoeverlastingwoe.

Andnow,withourmindssolemnized,andasexpectantsofthatglorywhichshallberevealedattherevelationofChrist,letus,inthelightofGod'sWord,andwitheagerandjoyousanticipation,contemplate that coming day of recompense, when the Saviorshallappear in theclouds,seatedonHisgreatwhite throneofroyal splendor-when theheavens shallpassawaywithagreatnoise- when the elements shall be dissolved- when the worldshallbeinflames;andwhen,fromthefaceofHimthatsitsonthethrone,boththeearthandtheheavenshallfleeaway.

THE CERTAINTY OF THE SAVIOR'S COMING. He willcertainly come again. This great truth is expressly, repeatedly,and solemnly declared in theWord of God. On this point wewouldadducethefollowingScripturetestimony.'OurGodshallcome,andshallnotkeepsilence;afireshalldevourbeforeHim,anditshallbeverytempestuousroundaboutHim.Heshallcalltotheheavensfromabove,andtotheearth,thatHemayjudgeHispeople.' 'Behold, theLordcomeswith ten thousandofHissaints.' He who now fills the mercy-seat above, will come tooccupy the judgment-seat established in these visible heavensbeforeanassembleduniverse.

The doctrine of a general resurrection of the righteous andwickedat the last day, andof a judgment,when allmenmustrender up their final account with joy or grief, ismost clearlyexhibitedintheBible.'Thehouriscominginwhichallwhoarein the graves shall hearHis voice, and shall come forth; thosewho have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and thosewhohavedoneevil,untotheresurrectionofdamnation.''AndIsaw the dead, small and great, stand before God.' 'And Yourwrathhascome,and the timeof thedead, that theyshouldbe

judged.' 'For the Son of man shall come in the glory of HisFather, withHis angels; and thenHe shall reward everymanaccording to his works.' 'For God shall bring every work intojudgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, orwhetheritbeevil.''ButIsayuntoyou,Thateveryidlewordthatmen shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day ofjudgment.' 'InthedaywhenGodshalljudgethesecretsofmenbyJesusChrist,accordingtomyGospel.''Hecomestojudgetheearth: He shall judge the world with righteousness, and thepeoplewithHistruth.''Itisappointeduntomenoncetodie,butafterthatthejudgment.'

Thus is it manifest from the Scriptures, to say nothing of theargument furnished by the light of nature in support of thistruth,thattherewillbeageneraljudgment,whentheactionsofallmenshallbescrutinized,andajustrecompenserenderedtoeverymanaccording tohis character andworks. Then, shouldwenotoftenseriouslythinkofthesecondcomingofChrist,andthe solemnities of the day of general judgment, while, at thesame time,we study to livewith awise reference to that finalaccount which we must render to the righteous Judge of allmankind?

THETIMEOFTHESAVIOR'SCOMING.ThepreciseperiodofHis second coming is not revealed to any creature in theuniverse. It isoneof thesecret things thatbelongtoGod. It isconcealedfromtheholyangels,andevenfromthehumansoulof the SaviorHimself; for it is expressly declared, 'Of that dayand that hour knows no man, no, not the angels who are inheaven, neither the Son, but the Father alone.' How vain andpresumptuous, then,are theattemptsofmanto fix theprecisedate of that period when the Savior shall be revealed fromheaven, since thegreat secret is concealed in thebosomof theeternal Father! But the day of judgment is appointed by theSupremeRuleroftheuniverse. 'Hehasappointedaday,inthewhich He will judge the world in righteousness, by that Manwhomhehasordained.'

ThecomingofChrist,asweareassuredbydivinerevelation,willbe sudden and unexpected. It is compared to the flashing oflightning,sosuddenandsurprisingwillthisappearancebe.'Forasthelightningcomesoutoftheeast,andshinesevenuntothewest, so also shall the coming of the Son of Man be.' It is,moreover,comparedtotheunexpectedcomingofathiefinthenight. 'For you yourselves know perfectly, that the day of theLordsocomesasa thief in thenight.Forwhen theyshall say,Peace and safety, then sudden destruction comes upon them.'Howneedful then is the divine admonition, 'Watch, therefore;foryoudonotknowwhathouryourLordwillcome.''Thereforeyoualsobeready;forinsuchanhourasyoudonotthink, theSonofMancomes.'

Before the Savior appears again in the clouds of heaven, themysteryofGodmustbefinished,allthepropheciesofScriptureaccomplished, and the last saint robed in the spotlessrighteousness of Emmanuel, and prepared for the pure, andholy, and sublime joys of heaven. 'Then wonderful times ofrefreshmentwillcomefromthepresenceoftheLord,andhewillsend Jesus yourMessiah to you again. For hemust remain inheaven until the time for the final restoration of all things, asGodpromisedlongagothroughhisprophets.' 'Thencomestheend,whenHeshallhavedeliveredupthekingdomtoGod,eventhe Father; when He shall have put down all rule, and allauthority, and power. ForHemust reign, untilHe has put allenemiesunderHisfeet.'

ThetimeoftheSavior'ssecondcomingwillsoonarrive.'Foryeta little while, and He that shall come will come, and will nottarry.''Behold,theJudgestandsbeforethedoor.'Inalittlewhilewemustallstandbeforethe tribunalofGod.HowexplicitandemphaticarethelastwordsofJesusatthecloseofthevolumeofrevelation! As those who love His blessed appearance, let usalways listen to them with consolatory expectation, and thegreatestpleasure: 'SurelyIcomequickly.'Thricehappyhewho

is always watching and waiting for the coming of the Savior-whosehopeisinHisword,andthelanguageofwhoseheartis,'Makehaste,myBeloved, andbe like a roeor to a youngdeeruponthemountainsofspices.'

THEMANNEROFTHESAVIOR'SCOMING.HewillappearinamannersuitabletothedignityofHisPersonandoffice.HewilldescendfromheaveninallthemajestyofHisdivineandhumannature.Hewillcomeinthecloudsofheaven,arrayedwiththatglorious body which He now wears in the mansions above.'Behold, He comes with clouds; and every eye shall see Him.''TheSonofMancominginthecloudsofheavenwithpowerandgreatglory.'ThenwillHebeseenriding in theheavensbyHisgreatnameJAH,andinHisexcellencyontheskies.ThentrulywillHemakethecloudsHischariot;andwalkuponthewingsofthewind.

InthegivingofthelawonSinai,whentheLordcamedowninthe sight of all the people of Israel, we have a faintrepresentation of the dreadfulmajestywithwhichHe shall berevealed from heaven to execute His righteous law, and togather His redeemed ones home to the city of rest. On thatsolemn occasion, when the awful majesty of Jehovah wasdisplayed before the thousands of Israel, the earth shook, theheavensdropped,andSinai itselfwasmoved.Then therewerethundersandlightnings,andathickcloudupontheMount,andthevoiceofthetrumpetexceedinglyloud.'AllMountSinaiwascoveredwithsmokebecausetheLordhaddescendedonitintheformoffire.Thesmokebillowedintotheskylikesmokefromafurnace, and the whole mountain shook with a violentearthquake.''Andthemountainburnedwithfireuntothemidstofheaven,withdarkness,clouds,andthickdarkness.'Thenwasthe voice of the Eternal heard in the trumpet which soundedlong, and waxed louder and louder, shaking the hearts of thechildrenofIsraelwithfear,andcausingevenMoses,themanofGod,to'exceedinglyfearandquake.'

AmidsuchmanifesttokensofapresentDeity,howterriblemusthave been the sight and the sound! But still what littleresemblancewillallthisbeartotheawfulsceneofthelastday!Oh,whocanconceivethedreadfulmajesty,theawfulpomp,theintense splendor with which the Lord of glory shall appear inthatdaywhenHeshalldescendfromheavenwithashout,withthe voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God;when all that are in their graves shall hear His all-powerfulvoice,andcomeforth-whenthelightofthesunshallfade-whenthe hills shall melt like wax, and the mountains smoke- andwhen the heavens and the earth shall flee away from Hispresence!

He will come with POWER. To Christ our Judge all power inheaven and earth is given; and on the morning of theresurrection He will manifest the exceeding greatness of Hispower before an assembledworld.With absolute authorityHewillcalluponthedeadtoawakefromtheirsleepinthedust;andthey will instantly obey the divine summons, and come forth.Thesamealmightyvoicethatspoketheuniverseintoexistence,willthensoundthroughthedismalmansionsofallgraves.Whatasolemnthought!

Hewill comewithGREATGLORY.Hismanifestation is called'the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior JesusChrist.' He will appear in His own glory, in the glory of HisFather,andof theholyangels.OfthegloryofJesusnohumantonguecanproperlyspeak;itisasubjecttoovastforus,inthisvalley of mortality, to understand; it will be the unexhaustedtheme of eternal ages. On the mount of transfiguration thedisciplesgotaglimpseofthegloryofourSaviorwhenHisfaceshoneasthesun,andHisclothingwasaswhiteasthelight.ToPaulalittleofthisglorywasmanifestedwhenJesusappearedtoHim in 'a light fromheaven, above the brightness of the sun.'And the beloved John, in his blessed vision on the Isle ofPatmos, beheld the ineffable glory of the Redeemer, when hesaw 'standing in themiddleof the lampstandswas theSonof

Man.Hewas wearing a long robe with a gold sash across hischest.His head and his hairwerewhite likewool, aswhite assnow.Andhiseyeswerebrightlikeflamesoffire.Hisfeetwereasbrightasbronzerefinedinafurnace,andhisvoicethunderedlikemightyoceanwaves.Heheldsevenstarsinhisrighthand,and a sharp two-edged sword came from his mouth. And hisfacewas as bright as the sun in all its brilliance.'But vain arewordstoexpressthedivinemajestyoftheonlybegottenSonofGod, who dwells in light inaccessible and full of glory. Tocomprehend this thememore fully and satisfactorily, wemustwaituntilthismortalshallhaveputonimmortality,andallthisunutterablegloryberevealedtous.

TheSaviorwillappearinthegloryoftheeternalFather.Aswehavealreadyseen,therewasamostremarkablemanifestationofthe glory of the Deity at the dispensation of the law on Sinai,when 'thesightof thegloryof theLordwas likedevouring fireon the top of theMount in the eyes of the children of Israel.'Now, in all this glory will the man Christ Jesus be invested,when He shall appear the second time without sin untosalvation.

On that solemnday theheavenlyhostwill adornHis triumph.Hewillcomewith theholyangels- 'WhentheLordJesusshallbe revealed from heaven with His mighty angels.' Thetranscendentbrightnessofthesecelestialbeingswilladdmuchtothegrandeur,thesolemnity,andtheterrorsofthat'greatdayof dread, decision, and despair.' When but a single angelappeared at the Savior's resurrection, we are told that hiscountenancewas as lightning, andhis clothingwhite as snow;andthatforfearofhimthekeepersshook,andbecameasdeadmen. How majestic, then, will be the scene, when theinnumerable company of mighty angels, clothed in theirresplendent robes of glory, shall leave the realms of bliss, andattendtheKingofkingsandtheLordof lordsinHisadventtothe judgment of the great day! Oh, what a splendid celestialretinuewillthenbeseen!

InHissecondcomingtheSaviorwillbeaccompaniedbyallthesaints who have gained the shores of bliss. 'Behold, the LordcomeswithtenthousandofHissaints.''ThosealsowhosleepinJesuswillGodbringwithHim.'Thenwill all the spiritsof thejustmadeperfect descend fromheavenwithEmmanuel, tobereunitedtoincorruptible,immortal,andgloriousbodiestositinjudgment upon the wicked- to receive the welcome to eternallife- and to pass with the triumphant Savior to the celestialinheritancepreparedforthemfromthefoundationoftheworld.Oh,blessedreunionofsoulandbody!Whodoesnotdesiretobeamong thathappynumberof ransomed spiritswhomGodourSavior will bring with Him on the joyous morning of theresurrection? Blessed sleep in Jesus! which is followed by anawakeninginthelikenessoftheSonofGod,andbyanunendingday of heavenly glory!When we come to resign our spirits indeath, Oh,maywe calmly and sweetly fall asleep in Jesus, soshallwe, too,beamongthemyriadsofblessedspiritswhowillbebroughtwiththeeternalJudgetoshareinthegloriesandthejoysofthegeneralresurrection.

'AsleepinJesus!peacefulrest!Whosewakingissupremelyblest;Nofear-nowoe-shalldimthathour,ThatmanifeststheSaviorspower.AsleepinJesus!oh,formeMaysuchablissfulrefugebeSecurelyshallmyasheslie,Waitingthesummonsfromonhigh.'

TheSaviorismoreover,representedascoming'inflamingfire.'AdevouringfiregoesbeforeHim,andafterHimaflameburns.Daniel, in his sublime vision of the kingdom of Messiah,describesHisthroneof judgmentasbeing 'likethefieryflame,andHiswheelsasburningfire.Afierystreamissuedandcameforth from before Him: thousand thousands ministered untoHim,and ten thousand times ten thousand stoodbeforeHim.'

Whocanconceive theterriblemajestyof thesecondcomingofthe Lord to execute His vengeance upon all the workers ofiniquity,especiallythosewhohavenotobeyedtheGospel-whohave despised the only refuge from the fierceness of divinewrath!

Here let us pause for a moment, and reflect on the widedifferencebetweenthemannerofthefirstandsecondcomingofthe Savior.WhenHe first appeared in theworld it was in theform of a servant- as aMan of sorrows, and acquainted withgrief.WhenHeshallcomethesecondtime,Hewillappearasaglorious King- as God over all, blessed forever- His humannaturenomoresubjecttopain,orunderthedominionofdeath.InHisfirstcomingHewasborninastable;cradledinamanger,and surrounded by only a few feeble friends. At His secondadventHewillappearinallthegrandeurofHisdivinity,shininggloriouslyonHisgreatwhitethrone,attendedbyallthehostsofheaven. InHis firstmanifestation, He came to be judged andcondemnedtodeathbywickedmen.InHissecondcoming,HewillappearastheJudgeofboththelivingandthedead.InHisfirst divine mission to the world, He humbled Himself andbecameobedientuntodeath,eventhedeathofthecross--woreacrownof thorns, and endured themost piercing grief, and themostrackingtorture.InHissecondrevelationfromheaven,Hewill appear as the One to whom every knee shall bow, andtongueconfess-wearingthatcrownofglorywhichHehadwiththeFather before the foundation of theworld- the rays ofHisglorybeamingforthoneveryside-andHis lightshiningasthemorning-asthebrightandMorningStar.

WhenwethinkofChristinthedepthofHishumiliation,letusalsocontemplateHiminHisgloriousexaltationatthelastday.By faith beholdHim onHis radiant throne of judgment.Howunlike the sufferer of Gethsemane! How unlike the man ofCalvary!YetitisthesameJesus,whowastaken,andbywickedhands crucified and slain, who now appears in all this royalmajesty. Oh, the inconceivable glory of His second coming,

whentheheavensshallberolledtogetherasascroll-whentheyshallfleeawayfromthepresenceofHimwhositsonthethrone!

TheLordshallcome!theearthshallquake;Themountainstotheircentershake;Andwitheringfromthevaultofnight,Thestarsshallpaletheirfeeblelight.TheLordshallcome!butnotthesameAsonceinlowlinessHecame;AsilentLambbeforeHisfoes,Awearymanandfullofwoes.TheLordshallcome!adreadfulform,Withrainbowwreath;androbesofstorm;Oncherubwingsandwingsofwind,AppointedJudgeofallmankind!'

THE OBJECT OF THE SAVIOR'S COMING. He will come tojudge the world. 'The Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge thelivingandthedeadatHisappearingandHiskingdom.''Hehasappointed a day in the which He will judge the world inrighteousness, by that man whom He has ordained.' What ascenewilloccurinthatgreatanddreadfuldayoftheLord!LetuslookforwardtoHissolemnandmajesticappearance.BeholdtheJudgedescendingfromheavenwithashout,withthevoiceof the archangel, andwith the trumpet call ofGod.Hark!ThevoiceofHimwhoonceyieldedHisbreathontheaccursedtree,amid the severest pain and the deepest agony, now echoesthrough the expanse of theheavens, and is heard in the silenthallsofdeath.Thetrumpetsounds.Theearthtrembles.Whatanamazingsceneisnowwitnessed!Everygraveopens,andallthedead,reanimatedbythevoiceoftheSonofGod,comefromtheland of darkness and deep forgetfulness, invested withincorruptibleandimmortalbodies,someofthemrisingtoglory,otherssinkingtowoe.Whatcountlessmillionsofhumanbeings,longburiedinthesleepofdeath,arenowseenspringingtonewlife,andhasteningtojudgment!Thosewhohavefoundawaterygrave will not be overlooked in the great day of universal

judgment.Lookagain.Theseagivesup thedead. 'And theseagaveupthedeadwhichwereinit,anddeathandhelldeliveredup the dead which were in them, and they were judged everymanaccordingtotheirworks.'

Thosewhoarefoundaliveatthedawnofthelastday,undergoachangeequivalenttodeath,and,likethoseraisedfromthedead,are clothedwith incorruptible and immortal bodies. 'Behold, Ishow you amystery;we shall not all sleep, butwe shall all bechanged, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the lasttrumpetcall,forthetrumpetshallsound,andthedeadshallberaised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.' 'For the LordHimselfshalldescendfromheavenwithashout,withthevoiceofthearchangel,andwiththetrumpetcallofGod;andthedeadinChristshallrisefirst:thenwewhoarealiveandremain,shallbecaughtuptogetherwiththemintheclouds,tomeettheLordintheair:andsoshallweeverbewiththeLord.'

Whenthedeadareraisedandthelivingchanged,therighteouswillbegatheredbytheministryofangelsbeforethegreatwhitethroneof theRedeemer. 'AndHe shall sendHis angelswith agreat sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together Hiselectfromthefourwinds,fromoneendofheaventotheother.'ThewickedwillalsobebroughtbeforethetribunalofChristbythesameinstrumentality. 'TheSonofManshallsendforthHisangels,andtheyshallgatheroutofHiskingdomallwhooffend,andthosewhodoiniquity;andshallcastthemintoafurnaceoffire:thereshallbewailingandgnashingofteeth.'Thethroneofjudgment will then be set, and the books opened. What anexalted conception do we have of this glorious scene in theapocalyptic vision! 'And I saw a greatwhite throne, and I sawtheonewhowas sittingon it.The earthand sky fled fromhispresence,buttheyfoundnoplacetohide.Isawthedead,bothgreat and small, standing before God's throne. And the bookswere opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead werejudgedaccordingtothethingswritteninthebooks,accordingtowhat theyhaddone.Theseagaveup thedead in it,anddeath

and the grave gaveup thedead in them.Theywereall judgedaccording to their deeds.' Behold the Savior thus seated uponthethroneofHisglory,Hisgreatwhitethroneestablishedupontheclouds. ThereHewill be visible to thewholeworld. Thereevery created being throughout the universe shall see Him.ThereoureyesshallseeHim,andourears shallhear the finalsentence from His lips. What a solemn and soul-searchingthought!

'Thejudgment!thejudgment!thethronesareallset,WheretheLambandthewhite-vestedEldersaremet!AllfleshisatonceinthesightoftheLord,AndthedoomofEternityhangsonHisword!Omercy!Omercy!lookdownfromabove,Creator!onus,Yoursadchildren,withlove!Whenbeneath,totheirdarkness,thewickedaredriven,MayoursanctifiedsoulsfindamansioninHeaven!'

Inthegreatandterribledayofjudgment,therighteousandthewicked will be divided into two classes. The former will beplaced at the right hand of Christ; the latter at His left. ThegloriousJudgewillthenproceedtopassthefinalsentence.Itisfirstpronouncedupontherighteous,inthesewords:'Come,youwhoareblessedofmyFather,inheritthekingdompreparedforyoufromthefoundationoftheworld.'Whatjoyouswords!Whata glorious invitation! The righteous are invited to inherit theheavenly kingdom- a kingdom, the riches, and grandeur, andglory of which infinitely surpass all the splendor of thisperishingworld-akingdomwhichhasbeenpreparedfor themin the ages of eternity- a kingdomwhere no discord prevails-whereeveryheartispervadedbyintenselove-wherethewindsof adversity never blow- where no pain is experienced-whereseparation of friends by death is never feared- where all theredeemedaremadekingsandpriestsuntoGod,andserveHimdayandnightinHisholytemple.

Here we see the source of the felicity of the saints- they are

blessed of the eternal Father. In comforting His disconsolatedisciples, Christ said to them- 'The FatherHimself loves you.''Fearnot,littleflock;foritisyourFather'sgoodpleasuretogiveyouthekingdom.'LetusneverforgetthatthegrandschemeofredeemingloveoriginatedintheinfiniteloveofGodtheFather;and that, ifwe love theSaviorandbelieve inHim,weshallbelovedbytheFatherandblessedbyHiminlife,indeath,onthemorningoftheresurrection,andthroughalltheagesofeternity.'Hewholovesme,'saysChrist,'shallbelovedbymyFather;andIwillloveHim,andwillmanifestmyselftoHim.'

Having pronounced the joyful sentence of acquittal upon therighteous, the Savior will now pass the dreadful sentence ofcondemnationupon thewicked.To those onHis left hand theJudgewillsay,inavoicewhichwillechothroughtheexpanseofheaven;'Departfromme,youcursedones,intoeverlastingfire,preparedfor thedevilandhisangels.'Withwhat indescribableterrorwill these dreadful words fill the souls of the lost!Howoverwhelming the thought, that thedoorofmercywillnowbeforeverclosed to thosewho,whilepilgrimsonearth,neglectedordespisedthegreatsalvation.

Whatemotionscrowduponourmind,aswereflectonthoselastwordsofChristtothewicked!Totherighteoustherearenolastwords of the Redeemer. Oh, blessed and delightful thought!WhileHisvoicewillbespeakingpeacetothemastheyshinelikethesuninthekingdomoftheirFatherabove,never,neverwillitbeheard in the abodes of darkness, to soothe the sinner amidthewailings of eternalwoe, or to givehima singlepromiseoffuture happiness. And while the ransomed throng around theheavenly throne will ever remember with rapturous joy thoselife-givingwords:Come,youwhoareblessedofmyFather;withwhatpiercinggriefwillthelosteverdwellontheselastwordsoftheSavior-Departfromme,youcursed!

'Yet,tothelostthereare,indeed,lastwordsOfChrist.Thelostwilleverthinkonthese,

AndintheagesofeternityWithsharpenedrecollectioncallthemup-Depart,youcursed!Whatlestwordsarethese,Todwelluponforever!-torecallThemeltingmelancholytonesofpity,MixedwithseverityofGod,inwhichTheSonofManpronouncedeternalwoe!'

Lookatthemiseryofthewicked,whenthedreadfulsentenceofcondemnation is passed upon them. 'And these shall go awayinto everlasting punishment.' See them descending to theregionsofwoe.Seethemassivegatesofthosedismalmansionsofdespairopeningtoreceivethem.Trulyare theydrivenawayin their wickedness; they are driven front light into darkness-intoeverlastingpunishment.Oftheseverityofthispunishmentnomind can conceive. It includes the lossof communionwithGod,thelossofthedivinefavor;thelossofthesoul;thelossofheavenwithallitssupremeandperpetualjoys.Thenwillgatheraroundthewicked theshadesof thatnightwhoseblacknessofdarknessnomorning light shall ever dispel.Howdreadful thethought!

LetthosewhoarenowdespisingorneglectingtheSavior,thinkof the fearful doom which awaits them, if they continueimpenitentuntildeathandjudgmentovertakesthem,untiltheyareforeverplacedbeyondthepossibilityofobtainingsalvation.When you have heard the solemn and truthful declarations ofGod'swordrespectingthefuturepunishmentofthewicked,whywillyounotlaythesethingstoheart?WhywillyouremainanylongerintheCityofDestruction?WhywillyounotfleethishourtotheCityofRefuge?Whywillyouthrowawaytherichesofablissful immortality for the momentary and unsatisfyingpleasures of time? As you advance in the broad and crookedways of sin, your soul is in danger of being lost. Youmay beplacingthejudgmentdayafaroff;butthenightofdeath,whenyour eternal state will be irrevocably fixed, will soon overtakeyou. Before you are summoned before His judgment-seat, oh,

mayyouobtainasavingviewofChristseateduponthethroneofgrace,readytodispensetoyoutheblessingsofgraceandglory.Listentothevoiceofmercystillsoundinginyourears,'AsIlive,saystheLordGod,Ihavenopleasureinthedeathofthewicked;butthatthewickedturnfromhiswayandlive:turn,turnfromyourevilways;forwhywillyoudie?'

It is a cheering thought, that you may yet obtain mercy, andforgiveness, and eternal life. Look up, then, with hope andconfidence in the bleeding Savior. The Star of Morning stillshines to illuminate your pathway to the mansions of glory.Jesus is ready to receiveyou;andangelsarewaiting torejoiceoveryou in thepresenceofGod.Youmayyetgain theblissfulshores of immortality, andwalk the golden streets of theNewJerusalem.Youmayyetbeamongthathappy,adoringcompany,who,investedwithrobesofcelestiallight,areconductedbytheLamb,inthemidstofthethrone,tofountainsofperennialbliss.Thenseizethepresentmoment,andhastentotheonlyHiding-place from the storm and the tempest; and, amid a dissolvingworld,youwillliftupyourheadswithexultationandecstasy,attherighthandofChrist,tohearHimpronounceyoublessedofHisFather,andtobeinvitedbyHimtothemansionsofeternalfelicity.

Letusnowcontemplatethehappinessoftherighteouswhenthejoyfulsentenceofacquittalispronounceduponthem,andwhen,withbodiesresemblingthatoftheSavior,theybegintoshineasthesun;theholiness,andthelove,andthehappinessofheaven,beamingintheircountenanceandsparkling intheireyes. 'Andthese shall go away into everlasting punishment: but therighteousintoeternallife.'

'Butlo!faroff,therighteouspassToglory;fromtheKing'srighthand,Insilence,ontheseaofglass,Heaven'snumberswithoutnumberstand,WhileHe,whoborethecross,laysdown

Hispriestlyrobeandvictorcrown;Themediatorialreigncomplete,AllthingsareputbeneathHisfeet.'

Here is the consummation of the happiness of the saints; therealizationofalltheirhopes;andtheaccomplishmentofallthedivinepromisesrespectingthebestowmentofcelestialbliss.InthelikenessoftheSonofGod,theyawaketoeverlastinglife,andpass, at once, into the possession of the promised kingdomofglory. No one can comprehend the import of these words-EternalLife! It isa lifewhichconsists inbeholding the faceofGod in righteousness, in being conformed to His image, incontemplatingthegloryoftheRedeemer,andintheenjoymentof sweet and uninterrupted communion with the Father, Son,andHolySpirit.Itisalifeofexemptionfromallthepains,andsorrows, and afflictions of earth- a life of the most extensiveknowledge,themostperfectholiness,themostrapturousjoy.Itis ETERNAL Life! In heaven this perishable body is raisedimperishable, and thismortal body raised to immortality. Yes,on those bright and happy shores beyond this valley of tearsthereshallbenomoredeath,neithersorrow,norcrying,neithershalltherebeanymorepain.Assoonasthosewordsofheavenlyinvitation fall from the lips of the Savior, the happy hourwillhavearrivedwhenalltheransomedoftheLordshallreturn,andcometoZionwithsongsandeverlastingjoyupontheirheads.

Beholdtherighteousnow,asthecommandgoesforth,'Openthegates,thattherighteousnationwhichkeepsthetruth,mayenterin.' See! heaven, with all its pure, and sublime, and perpetualjoys,openstoreceivethem.Theyenterinthroughthegatesintothecity:theygotoexperiencethatfullnessofjoywhichisinthepresence of God, and to tune, on golden harps, the song ofMosesandtheLamb.Howenrapturingistheirprospect,astheyenterthemansionsofeternalday,andseebeforethemanoceanofglory,without a bottom, or a shore!What joy springsup intheirhearts,astheybeholdthelife-givingcountenanceofJesus!What glory do they receive from Him! And what songs of

gratitudeandpraisedotheycontinuallyraisetoHimwhositsontheheavenlythrone-theLambthatwasslain!

LetusnowlookatthepresentworldwhenthedivineJudgehaspronounced His final sentence; and when a mighty angel,standingupontheseaandupontheearth,withupliftedhands,shallswearbyHimwholivesforeverandeverthattimeshallbenolonger.Howquicklydoesthegloryof'terrestrialthings'passaway!AfireiskindledbythebreathoftheSonofGod,andalltheworksofman-all theproductsofhisart-all theobjects ofhisinventivegenius-areenvelopedintheflame.Theearthitselfis burned up, or purified by fire. See the devouring elementspreadingoverthewholefabricofnature.Socearth'severlastinghills, and mountains, and valleys, and plains, melting withfervent heat, and vanishing like smoke at the presence of theLord. But look upon these visible heavens- they, too, arewrappedinthatdreadfulflamewhichencirclestheearth.Inthatawfulday 'theheavens shallpass awaywitha greatnoise, andtheelementsshallmeltwithferventheat,theearthalsoandtheworksthatarethereinshallbeburnedup.'UntothisfireoftheAlmighty we are told by the word of God, that the presentheavensandeartharereserved.'AndGodhasalsocommandedthattheheavensandtheearthwillbeconsumedbyfireonthedayof judgment,whenungodlypeoplewill perish.'Howawfultheperiod!Theheavensonfire,andpassingawaywithagreatnoise; themountains quaking at the presence of theLord; thehillsmeltingwith fervent heat; the sun turning into darkness;the moon into blood; the stars falling from heaven; and theheavensandearthfleeingawayfromthefaceofHimwhositsonthethrone!'Liftupyoureyestotheheavens,andlookupontheearthbeneath:fortheheavensshallvanishawaylikesmoke,andtheearthshallwaxoldlikeagarment.'

The Savior will come to be glorified in His saints, and to beadmiredinallthosewhobelieve.ThenwillHeappearinperfectbeautyforoureternaladmirationandjoy.WithwhatbrightnesswilltheStarofMorningthenshine?Withwhatintensesplendor

willtheSunofRighteousnessthenbeam?andinHislighthowclearly shallwe see light?Withwhat inconceivabledelightwillwe then behold His glory, and celebrate the depths of divinelove!Howdeeplywillwe then drink of the rivers of pleasureswhichflowatHisrighthand!IfthesightofJesus,bytheeyeoffaith, is so delightful to the Christian while on earth, howrapturouswillbethejoytobeholdHimfacetoface!HowwillweadmireHim,whenwegazeuponHisgloriousform,shininglikethesuninhisstrength,andhearHisgraciousvoice,andseeHislife-givingcountenance!

Oh,blessedsight,toseeJesuswithourbodilyeyes-toseeHim,whoonceworethecrownofthornsonearth, investedwiththescepterofuniversaldominion,andreadytobestowuponusalltheblissofheaven!Theeye thatbeholdsHimwithadmirationshallweepnomore;forthelasttearshallbewipedawayinHisglorious presence where fullness of joy eternally reigns. Thenshall we behold His face in righteousness, and be foreversatisfied with His likeness. Then, truly, shall our eyes see theKinginHisbeauty;andbeholdthelandthatisyetveryfaroff.WhatbeautyandexcellencywillwethendiscoverinthePersonofouradorableRedeemer!What richesofgraceandglorywillwe seeHim confer upon us! And howwill all this cause us toadmireHim,andtoadoreHisname!Oh,mayourearnestdesirebe, thus to behold Jesus, atHis second coming, and to glorifyandadmireHim through those eternal ageswhich roll beyondthe judgment day. Then, on that bright and happy morning,whenwerise fromthe tomb, togazeon theSaviordescendingfromheaveninterriblemajesty,wemaysingwithemotionsofjoyfultriumph,'Lo,thisisourGod;wehavewaitedforHimandHewill saveus!This is theLord;wehavewaited forHim,wewillbegladandrejoiceinHissalvation.'

Blessed Jesus, we beseech You now to manifest to us theexcellency and glories of Your Person, so that in the day ofjudgment we may see You in the beauty of holiness, and bebrought with gladness and rejoicing into Your presence, to

glorifyandadmireYou in regionsof celestialbliss, and to jointhe choir of saints and angels in the never-ending songs ofParadise.

THE DAY OF THE SAVIOR'S SECOND COMING WILL BEONE OF UNUTTERABLE JOY TO THE RIGHTEOUS. Withwhat transports of joy shall we,who believe in Jesus, hail thedawnofthatlong-promised,long-desiredday,whenweshallberaisedfromthedustofdeath, inthelikenessofourRedeemer,to hear His blessed sentence; to sit with Him on a throne ofglory;tobecomethecompanionsofholymenandangels;andtobecrownedwithallthehappinessofheaven!Itisimpossibleforusnowtoconceivethejoywhichwill fill thegloriousassemblyof theredeemed,when, in thegreatdayof finalaccounts, theyare accepted, acquitted, and presented faultless before thethroneofGod.Thenwillthesegloriouswordsbeaccomplished,'Yetwehavethisassurance:ThosewhobelongtoGodwilllive;theirbodieswillriseagain!Thosewhosleepintheearthwillriseupandsingforjoy!ForGod'slightoflifewillfalllikedewonhispeopleintheplaceofthedead!'Oh,itissweettothinkthatweshall awake from our slumbers, 'low in the ground,' to rejoicewitha triumphantSavior,and tosing thenewsongofheaven.What joywill fill therisingsaint,whenhesees thathehas leftbehindHimallsin,andsorrow,andpain,andtears;andthatHepossessesabodywhichisevertobloomwithyouth,andbeauty,andvigor, and to shineas the sun through theendlessagesofeternity! Then will have come the period of our completeredemption, when, arrayed with the beams of the Sun ofRighteousness,weshall liftupourheadswith joyunspeakableandfullofglory.

Thenwilleverybelieverreceivethatcrownoflife,towhichholyPaul looked forwardwithsuchrapturousdelight,whenhewasjust finishing his earthly course. 'I have fought a good fight, Ihavefinishedmycourse,Ihavekeptthefaith;henceforththereislaidupformeacrownofrighteousness,whichtheLord, therighteousJudge,shallgivemeat thatday;andnottomeonly,

butuntoallthemalsothatloveHisappearing.'Bythiscrown,allthe blessings of glory are represented- all the riches of thecelestial Paradise, with its tree of life, its immortal fruits, itsriversofpleasure,itsmansionsofbliss.Oblessedcrown!Itwillproduceinthemindofeverybelieverthemostjoyfulemotions.Itwillmakehimshineasthesuninthekingdomofheaven.Itfadesnotaway.Itwillbewornthroughceaselessages.Letitbeourdesirenow to engage in the good fight of faith, and to layhold on eternal life, so that, at the glorious appearing of theSavior,wemayreceivethiscrownofrighteousness,andrejoiceforevermore.

On themorningof the resurrection therewill beamost joyfulmeeting between Christ and believers. The Christian, while apilgrim here, is sometimes filled with supreme joy when hethinksofanabsentSavior.'Youlovehimeventhoughyouhaveneverseenhim.Thoughyoudonotseehim,youtrusthim;andevennowyouarehappywithaglorious,inexpressiblejoy.'Butwhatwill be the joywhenwe shallmeetHim in the judgmentday, to sit down with Him at the banquet of redeeming love!Howunspeakable!howfullofglory!WithwhatjoyshallwehearHimwelcomeus toHis glorioushome,whereHeHimselfwillrejoiceoveruswithjoy;restinHislove,andrejoiceoveruswithsinging!

ThemeetingofChristianfriendswillmakethedayofChristoneof exceeding joy to the righteous. With what indescribablepleasurewillwethenmeetthosepiousfriends,withwhomwesoreluctantlypartedontheshoresoftime,andoverwhosegravesweshedsomanytearsofsorrow!Christianfriendswillthenbereunited to be separated no more. This delightful truth isexhibited by the apostle as the grand source of consolation tobelievers now mourning the loss of pious friends. 'And now,brothersandsisters,IwantyoutoknowwhatwillhappentotheChristianswhohavedied so youwillnotbe full of sorrow likepeoplewhohavenohope.Forsincewebelieve thatJesusdiedand was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus

comes, God will bring back with Jesus all the Christians whohavedied.IcantellyouthisdirectlyfromtheLord:WewhoarestilllivingwhentheLordreturnswillnotrisetomeethimaheadofthosewhoareintheirgraves.FortheLordhimselfwillcomedown fromheavenwith a commanding shout,with the call ofthe archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, all theChristians who have died will rise from their graves. Then,together with them, we who are still alive and remain on theearthwillbecaughtupinthecloudstomeettheLordintheairand remain with him forever. So comfort and encourage eachotherwiththesewords.'

Oh,thejoyfulmeetingthatwilltakeplaceonthemorningoftheresurrectionbetweenthemembersofpiousfamilies-ameetingthatwillknowno separation through the infiniteagesofbliss!Then will our Christian friends rise from the grave, in theglorious image of the Son of God, tomeet us on the peacefulshoreabove,andtorejoicewithusinthepresenceoftheSaviorforeverandever.Oh,then-Howwillourjoyandwonderrise,WhenourreturningKingShallbearushomewardthroughtheskiesOnlove'striumphantwing!'

THE DAY OF THE SAVIOR'S SECOND COMING WILL BEONEOFAGONIZINGTERRORTOTHEWICKED. It is calledthe terror of the Lord. 'Knowing, therefore, the terror of theLord,wepersuademen.'Withwhatunutterableanguishwillhe,who has lived without God and without hope in the world,beholdthedawnofthattremendousday!Adayfarmoreterribletotheself-condemnedsinner thanall thehorrorsofdissolvingnature and a world on fire.What fearfulness will surprise theimpenitent, in that day of final separation, when he hears thesoundofthetrumpetofGod,andseestheheavensandtheearthfleeingawayfromthefaceofHimwhositsonthethrone!Howterrible to him will be the sight of the Judge coming in theclouds of heaven with power and great glory! Then every eye

shallseeHim,andtheyalsowhopiercedHim.Howcanhe,whohaspiercedtheblessedJesusbyhissins,anddespisedHisall-cleansing blood, beholdHim coming to judgment?And wherecan he now flee for safety? Can he hide himself from thepresenceofthegloriousJudgewhoseeyesareasaflameoffire?Will the everlasting hills, or the lofty mountains, conceal himfromthoseomniscienteyes?Oh,no!Invainwillhethencrytothehillstofallonhim,andthemountainstocoverhimfromthepresenceofanavengingLord!Theywillfleeaway,andleavethewretched transgressor exposed to his just and terrible doom.'Thenthekingsoftheearth,therulers,thegenerals,thewealthypeople, thepeoplewithgreatpower,andeveryslaveandeveryfreeperson-allhidthemselvesinthecavesandamongtherocksof the mountains. And they cried to the mountains and therocks,"FallonusandhideusfromthefaceoftheonewhositsonthethroneandfromthewrathoftheLamb.Forthegreatdayoftheirwrathhascome,andwhowillbeabletosurvive?" 'Oh,what a day of crushing trouble!What a day of confusion andterrortheLord,theLordAlmighty,hasbroughtupontheValleyofVision!Thewallshavebeenbroken,andcriesofdeathechofromthemountainsides.'

Theywho,throughlife,Byconscienceandreligion'swarningvoiceUnmoved,theirprostitutedheartsresignedTosin,withthekeenhorrorsofremorseAndanguishrent,callontheloftyhillsTocovertheirapostateheads.Alas!Toolatecontritioncomes:thedoomispast'

THETHOUGHTOFTHESECONDCOMINGOFTHESAVIORSHOULD LEAD US TO PREPARE FOR SO SOLEMN ANDIMPORTANTANEVENT.Weshouldnowfleefromthewrathtocome by accepting the offers of mercy through a crucifiedRedeemer.Thisistheonlywaybywhichtheguiltymayescapethat fearful doom which is rapidly coming on an impenitentworld.Without this reconciliation to God by Jesus Christ, we

will be exposed to that storm of divine vengeance which shallburst upon this sinful world when the trumpet of God shallsound, and the dead awake. It was the consideration of theterrors of the last day- the fearfulness of appearing before thejudgment-seatofChristwithoutaninterestinHisatoningwork-thatmadetheapostlespersuademen,withallearnestness,tobereconciled toGod throughHimwhowasmade sin forus, thatwemightbemadetherighteousnessofGodinHim.Nowletus,in this day of salvation, be persuaded by the solemn andimpressivewords of divine revelation, to lay hold on the hopesetbeforeus-toenterintotheArkofheavenlyrepose-ofperfectpeace and safety. 'Go home, my people, and lock your doors!Hide until the Lord's anger against your enemies has passed.Look!TheLordiscomingfromheaventopunishthepeopleoftheearthfortheirsins.Theearthwillnolongerhidethosewhohavebeenmurdered.Theywillbebroughtoutforalltosee.'

How,diligent shouldwenowbe, that, in thedayof judgment,wemaybe found in Christ Jesus. 'So then, dear friends, sinceyouare looking forward to this,make every effort to be foundspotless,blamelessandatpeacewithhim.'Itwasthethoughtofa future judgment that led Paul to give his solemn charge toTimothy, respecting the faithful discharge of the ministerialoffice.'AndsoIsolemnlyurgeyoubeforeGodandbeforeChristJesus-whowillsomedayjudgethelivingandthedeadwhenheappears to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Bepersistent, whether the time is favorable or not. Patientlycorrect,rebuke,andencourageyourpeoplewithgoodteaching.'Oh,letusnowprepareforthecomingjudgment:letusnowbewise,andlistentothedivineadmonition-'PreparetomeetyourGod.'Wemaynowdisregardthesesolemnwords,butwecannotescape thismeetingwithGod in thedayof judgment.There isnodarkness,norshadowofdeath,wheretheworkersofiniquitymayhidethemselvesfromtheomniscienteyeoftheJudgeofallmankind.Inthatsearchingday,whentherighteouswillscarcelybe saved, where shall the guilty sinner appear? If we are notsafely sheltered in the Ark, Christ Jesus, how shall we escape

utterruinwhentheraindescends,andthefloodscome,andthewindsblow?

Letusnowlookat thecomingtempest,andhastentotheonlyHiding-Place before the day of wrath dawns.How dreadful tothinkofmeetingthatstormunprepared-ofbeingsweptawaybyit into theregionsofsorrowanddespair! 'I see,' exclaimed theeloquentDr.Griffin,inaburstofthemostsolemnandpiercingeloquence,'Iseeastormcollectingintheheavens;Idiscoverthecommotionof the troubledelements; Ihear theroarofdistantwinds.Heavensandearthseemmingledinconflict;andIcrytothose forwhom Iwatch,A storm!a storm!get into the arkoryou are swept away. Ah, what is it that I see? I see a worldconvulsedandfallingtoruins; theseaburning likeoil;nationsrisingfromunderground;thesunfalling;thedamnedinchainsbeforethebar;andsomeofmypoorhearersamongthem.Iseethemcast fromthebattlementsof the judgment-seat.MyGod!theeternalpithascloseduponthemforever!'Oh,ifwearenottheninthedivinelyappointedArk,howcanourearsendurethatvoice,atwhichtheearthmelts-thatreproofatwhichthepillarsof heaven tremble, and are astonished? In that day the loftylooksofmanshallbehumbled,andthehaughtinessofmenshallbeboweddown,andtheLordaloneshallbeexalted.

Letusdaily thinkof that strict accountwhichwemustgive toHimthatisreadytojudgethelivingandthedead;for'everyoneof us shall give account of himself to God.' How solemn thethought,thatwemustrenderanaccounttoHimofourtime,ourtalents, ourwords, our actions. 'But I sayuntoyou, that everyidlewordthatmenshallspeak,theyshallgiveaccountthereofinthe day of judgment.' Let the young, the gay, the thoughtless,remember thesepiercingwords, 'Youngman, it'swonderful tobeyoung!Enjoyeveryminuteof it.Doeverythingyouwant todo;takeitallin.ButrememberthatyoumustgiveanaccounttoGod for everything you do.' Let us now seriously think of thejudgment to come, and turn to the Lord with all our heart.Absorbed in the pursuit of worldly objects, and looking so

attentively at the things which are seen, how seldom do wesolemnly contemplate the approaching advent of the Savior tojudgment! Let us endeavor, hereafter, to keep this scene ofdreadfulsolemnityandgrandeurbeforetheeyeofourmind.Letusoften thinkof theSaviordescending fromheaven in all thegloriesoftheGodhead-sittinguponHisgreatwhitethrone,andsummoningtheworldbeforeHisjudgment-seat.Inthestrikinglanguage of John Howe, 'Why do we not live as just nowentering into the eternal state, and as if we now beheld thegloriousappearingofthegreatGodourSavior,whenweareasmuch assured of them as if we beheld them?Why do we notoftener view the representation of the heavens vanishing, theelements melting, the earth flaming, the angels everywheredispersedtogathertheelect,andthemascending,caughtuptomeettheRedeemerintheair,evertobewiththeLord?Whatatriflewilltheworldbetousthen!'

Wemustallsoonstandbeforethejudgment-seatofChrist.ThedayoftheLordisathand.Thescenesofthejudgmentwillsoonbewitnessedbyanassembleduniverse.Weshallsoonhearthevoice of the archangel and the trumpet call of God? WhataccountwillwethengiveatthebarofGod?Whatsentencewillwethenhear?WeshallsoonbewelcomedbytheSaviorto themansions of everlasting glory, or banished forever from thepresenceof theLord,and fromthegloryofHispower.Shouldnotthesesolemndeclarations,whicharefoundedonthewordofHimwhoisTruth,leadustogivealldiligencetoprepareforthat'great day for which all other days weremade?' Does not thissubject, which is so intimately connected with our presentcomfort, and future welfare, demand our most serious,undividedattention?

Andnow,willwepassoverthisthemeofinfiniteconsequencetous, and still sport with our salvation, on the very brink ofdestruction?Oh,inthisinestimablemomentletuscommitoursoulstothehandsoftheSonofGod,ourSavior,persuadedwithPaul,thatHeisabletokeepthatwhichwehavecommittedunto

Himagainstthatday.Howblessedarethosewho,inthedayofjudgment,arefounddependingonthemeritsoftheRedeemer-abiding inChrist! 'Andnow, little children, abide inHim, thatwhen He shall appear, we may have confidence, and not beashamedbeforeHimatHiscoming.'

Let the thought of the Savior's second coming excite us toconstancyinourChristiancourse,andtoholdfastthefaithoncedelivered to the saints. Let our faith and patience hold out alittle longer, and we shall safely reach the end of our briefpilgrimage,andbeforeverathomeinourFather'shouseabove-in themanymansions of celestial bliss.Will not the sound ofthat heavenly invitation, 'Come, you who are blessed of myFather,' abundantly compensate us for the sufferings of ourmomentary passage through life? Will not one moment'sexperienceofthejoysofheavencauseustoforgetallsublunarypain and sorrow? Oh, let this thought animate us to be stillfoundonthesideofChrist,contendingearnestlyforHiscause,amid the opposition of the world, the temptations of the evilone,andthedepravityofourownhearts.

LetusthroughlifefollowtheLordfully,sothat,atdeath,andinthejudgmentday,wemaybebroughtintothepromisedlandofheavenly rest. 'Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast,unmovable,alwaysaboundingin theworkof theLord, foryouknow that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.' Christianpilgrim, we shall soon behold that glorious morning of theresurrection, on which our happiness will be consummated.Thenwe,whohaveconfessedtheSavioronearth,willbeownedby Him before His Father and the holy angels. 'Whoevertherefore,'saysChrist, 'shallconfessmebeforemen,himwillIconfessalsobeforemyFatherwhoisinheaven.'Thenshalltheunutterable splendors of the New Jerusalem burst upon ourenraptured vision: then shall every child of God exchange thesighsofhisearthlypilgrimageforthejoysofheaven:thenshallwebeForeverwiththeLord!

'ForeverwiththeLord!Amen,soletitbe;Lifefromthedeadisinthatword,'Tisimmortality.'

BlessedJesus,prepareus;webeseechYou, forthesolemnandamazing scenes of the last day- for sharing in the gloriousresurrection of the just- for hearing the joyful welcome to lifeeverlasting. May we now have a saving interest in that peacewhich You have made by the blood of the cross: may we bewashedinthatfountainwhichhasbeenopenedforsinandforuncleanness: may we be covered with the robe of Yourrighteousness.Andinthatawfulday,whentheheavensandtheearthshallpassaway,oh,beourstrength,ourstay,ourshield,our exceeding great reward.With the glorious company of theredeemed-withapostles,andprophets,andmartyrs,clothedinwhite- may we then pass from Your judgment-seat to themansionsofheavenly felicity, tobe crownedwith immortality.Oh,then,mayournamesbefoundenrolled inthebookof life,andownedbyYou,sothatwemaybepresentedfaultlessbeforethepresenceofYourglorywithexceeding joy.Maywenowbeamong those who are waiting for You, and who love Yourgloriousappearing.MayourlifebenowhiddenwithYouinGod,sothatwhenYou,whoareourlifeappears,wemayalsoappearwith You in glory. Andmay that blissfulmorning soon dawn,when all Your ransomed saints shall awake to everlasting life,and shine as the brightness of the firmament- as the starsforever and ever. Why do the wheels of Your chariot tarry?Come,LordJesus!Comequickly!'ThedayofChrist;thelast,thedreadfulday;WhenyouandI,andalltheworld,shallcomeBeforeHisjudgment-seat,toheartheirdoomForeverandforever;andwhentheyWholovednotGod,far,farfromHimawayShallgo-butwherebanished?andwithwhom?AndtheywholovedHimshallbewelcomedhomeToGod,andChrist,andHeaven,andHeaven'sarray,

Angelsandsaintsmadeperfect-maythesceneOfthatdreaddaybealwayspresenthereHereinmyheart!Thateverydaybetween,Whichbringsmypassagetothegoalmorenear,Mayfindmefitter,byHislovemadeclean,BeforeHisthroneofjusticetoappear.'

THESAVIOR'SINVITATION

Time'ssunisfastsetting-itstwilightisnighItseveningisfallingincloudoverthesky;Itsshadowsarestretchinginominousgloom,Itsmidnightapproaches-themidnightofdoom!Thenhaste,sinner,haste,thereismercyforthee,Andwrathispreparing-flee,lingerer,flee!'

Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary andcarryheavyburdens,andIwillgiveyourest.Matthew11:28

The Spirit and the bride say, "Come." Let each onewhohearsthemsay,"Come."Letthethirstyonescome-anyonewhowantsto. Let them come and drink thewater of lifewithout charge.Rev.22:17

'COME; all things are ready. See, heaven is opened! Beholdangelsandthespiritsofjustmenmadeperfect,waitingforyourarrival! See the golden scepter of forgiveness extended beforeyou!Approach,andtouch,andliveforever.'-Dwight

COMETOTHESAVIOR

Jesus!refugeofmysoul,LetmetoYourbosomfly,Whiletheragingbillowsroll,

Whilethetempeststillishigh!Hideme,OmySavior!hideUntilthestormoflifeispast;Safeintothehavenguide;Oh,receivemysoulatlast.-CharlesWesley

IntheprecedingpagessomeofthemosttouchingscenesintheSavior's life, with reflections on the excellency and holiness ofHisnature,havebeenexhibited.GuidedbytheWordofGodwehavedweltonHisoriginalglory,whenHewaswiththeFather,rejoicing always beforeHim, andwhenHisdelightswerewiththe sons of men. We have followed Him in His wonderfultransition from heaven to earth, and listened to the song of amultitude of the heavenly host at His incarnation, ascribingglory to God in the highest, and proclaiming peace on earth,goodwill towardsmen.Wehave followedHim in someofHisworks of benevolence, when He went about continually doinggood,preachingthegospel,andhealingallmannerofsickness,and all manner of disease among the people. We havecontemplated Him in His amazing and mysterious agony inGethsemane, and in His painful and ignominious death onCalvary. We have seen Him laid in the silent tomb, and riseagainatthethirdday.WehavelookedafterHimasHeascendedtriumphantlyfaraboveallheavens,andviewedHimstandingatthe right hand of God, interceding for us in the heavenlysanctuary. And, lastly, we have looked forward through allcoming time, and fixing our eyes on that momentous period,whentheheavensaretoberolledtogetherasascroll,andwhenthe earth is to utter its expiring groan, we have contemplatedHimcomingagaininthecloudsofheavenwithpowerandgreatglory.

Now, we would ask, what impression have all these thingsproducedinourmind?Haveweconsideredthemseriously?AndhavetheybeenthemeansofguidingustotheblessedSavior,orof constraining us to esteem Him more highly? Have theypurifiedandgladdenedourheartswiththathopewhich'makes

not ashamed?' Have we made a proper application of thesesolemntruthstooursouls?

In this concluding essay we would endeavor to enforce morefully the great duty of coming to the Savior for the blessingswhichHehaspurchasedforusbytheobedienceofHislife,andHissufferingsanddeath-blessingswhichareofferedtousintheeverlastinggospel,withoutmoneyandwithoutprice- blessingswhichwillleadusintothe'greenpastures,'andbesidethe'stillwaters' of divine grace, as we journey through earth'swilderness, and bring us, at length, into that blessed state ofheavenly repose under the tree of life, and by the livingfountainsofwaters,inthemidstoftheParadiseofGod.

Ifwewouldenjoyallthegoodthatanimmortalsoulcandesire,wemustcometotheSaviorfortheblessingsofgracehere,andglory hereafter.Wemust enlist forthwith under the banner ofHiscross;fornowistheacceptedtime.TodaywemustlistentoHisvoice:tomorrowmaybetoolate.Foralltheblessingsoftheeverlasting covenant of grace we must come directly to Him,who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, andsanctification, and redemption. The blessings which aretreasuredupinChristforthesupplyoftheneedsofthosewhorepairtoHim,aresonumerousthatwehaveonlyspaceheretomentionsomeofthem.

COME TO THE SAVIOR FOR PARDON. Pardoning mercy isGod'sfree,graciousacceptanceofasinneruponthesatisfactionmade toHis justiceby thedeathofJesus. It is themost joyfulsoundthatcanfallontheearsofsinnersdoomedtodie.Itisoneoftherichestgiftsofdivinelove.Itdescendsfromheaven,andbringstheblessingsofpeacetothetroubledsoul.Itisapardonboughtwithblood- it issealed inthebloodofEmmanuel. It isthe remedy of all our guilt. It frees from the burden of sin,dissipatesthehorrorsofdespair,andsoothestheguiltysoul.Itremoves the sting of death, and enables the believer to enterwithnewsongsoftriumphintothejoyofhisLord.

Ifeeltheweightofnature'sguilt,BeneaththeponderousloadIgroan;Oh!maythebloodonCalvaryspiltForallmycrimsonsinsatone!BlestJesus!speakthepardoningword;Salvationtomyspiritbring!ThenwillYourgracethosejoysafford,WhichfromYourcrosstosinnersspring.Redeemedfromguiltandslavishfear,MysoulshallwingitswaytoThee!WhilefaithbeholdshertitleclearToblissfulimmortality.

In theGospel there is pardon for themost guilty. 'Comenow,andletusreasontogether,saystheLord;thoughyoursinsbeasscarlet, theyshallbeaswhiteassnow; thoughtheybered likecrimson,theyshallbeaswhiteaswool.'Thisisoneofthemostgracious and encouraging promises in theBible. It affords thegreatestencouragement to themostdepraved.But listen againto the voice of pardoning mercy. Hear the language of theinspiredapostlePaul-'Thisisatruesaying,andeveryoneshouldbelieveit:ChristJesuscameintotheworldtosavesinners-andIwastheworstofthemall.ButthatiswhyGodhadmercyonme,so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of hisgreat patience with even the worst sinners. Then others willrealizethatthey,too,canbelieveinhimandreceiveeternallife.'Whatsuper-aboundinggraceishere!Itextendstotheverychiefofsinners.Whilereflectingonatruthsoinspiringtothosewhoare conscious of guilt in the sight of Heaven, well may weexclaimwithwonder and joy: 'Where is anotherGod like you,who pardons the sins of the survivors among his people? Youcannotstayangrywithyourpeopleforever,becauseyoudelightinshowingmercy.Onceagainyouwillhavecompassiononus.Youwill trampleoursinsunderyour feetandthrowthemintothedepthsoftheocean!'

Now,wemust come to the Savior for this pardon. InHimwehave redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sinsaccording to the riches of His grace. 'Be it known unto you,therefore,menandbrethren,thatthroughthisManispreacheduntoyoutheforgivenessofsins.'Christhasborneouriniquities;anditisthroughHisbloodalone,whichisofinfinitevalue,thatwe can find this forgiveness of sins. His blood can efface thedeepest stains of iniquity. It has done so in innumerableinstances.Itcleansesusfromallsin.'ThebloodofJesusChristHis Son cleanses us fromall sin.' 'Iwill cleanse them fromalltheir iniquity,whereby theyhavesinnedagainstme;andIwillpardon all their iniquities, whereby they have sinned, andwhereby they have transgressed against me.' 'Whatever ourguiltinessbe,'saysRutherford, 'yetwhenit falls intotheseaofGod'smercy, it isbut likeadropofblood fallen into thegreatocean.'

'OSavior!inthattideWhichfromYourpiercedsideOnCalvary'smountwaspouredoutlikewine,Cleansemypollutedsoul,Thewoundsofsinmakewhole,AndbreatheYourSpiritoverthisheartofmine.'

Oh, the riches of this pardoning mercy of our adorableRedeemer!Mayitbetheburdenofoursongthroughalleternity.

The pardon which the Savior has obtained is offered to all. Afree, full,glorious invitation isextendedeven to thosewhoaremostdeeplystainedwiththeguiltofenormoussins-tothemostguiltyandwretchedofearth's inhabitants. 'Untoyou,Omen,Icall;andmyvoiceistothesonsofmen.''Hearkenuntome,youstout-hearted, thatare far fromrighteousness: Ibringnearmyrighteousness;itshallnotbefaroff,andmysalvationshallnottarry:''Letthewickedforsakehisway,andtheunrighteousmanhisthoughts:andlethimreturnuntotheLord,andHewillhavemercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly

pardon.''Ho,everyonethatthirsts,comeyoutothewaters,andhethathasnomoney;come,buyandeat;yes,come,buywineandmilkwithoutmoneyandwithoutprice.' 'TheSpiritandthebridesay,Come.Andlethimthathearssay,Come.Andlethimthatisthirstycome.Andwhoeverwill,lethimtakethewateroflifefreely.'

'Savior!anddoYouspeakSuchgraciouswordstome?DoYouthewandererseekWhobaselyfledfromYou?WillYoumyfootstepsguideTowhereYoursheepbesideThelivingstreamsabide?Icome,Icome,withshameandgriefoppressed,Yourfeetembrace,andshelterinYourbreast.'

Let all, then; come to the Savior for this inestimable blessing-pardonofsins.Letnone,howevervileorunworthyhemaybe,excludehimself fromthispardoningmercy-amercywhichweall need, and without which we will perish forever. Let not asense of enormous sin keep us for amoment from coming toHim, who came not to call the righteous, but sinners, torepentance. In all our guilt anddepravity let us repair toHimthatwemayreceiveanabundantpardon.'Thosewhoarewholeneed not a physician, but those who are sick.' In the preciousblood of Jesus, the Great Physician of souls, our woundedconscienceswillfindhealing;andbyfaithinHisatoningblood,weshall finallybeadmittedintothatbettercountry,wheretheinhabitant shall not say, I am sick; for the people that dwellthereinshallbeforgiventheiriniquity.

Many,onaccountofthegreatnessoftheirsins,arediscouragedfrom coming to the Savior for pardon. They are so burdenedwith consciousguilt, that they seemto imagine their iniquitiesaretooaggravatedforeventheSaviortopardon.ThisisamostunjustandunreasonableviewofthatgraceofGod,whichbrings

salvation to the most vile. It is lightly esteeming the amazinglove and compassion of Him, who, in the very midst of Hisagonizing pains on the cross, prayed for His persecutors-'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.' TheSavior will exclude none on account of enormous sins. Let uscometoHim,feelingtheneedofHisforgiveness,andusingthepleaofthePsalmist,'ForYourname'ssake,OLord,pardonmyiniquity;foritisgreat.'Underthebannerofthecrosspardonisnowproclaimedtoallpenitents,thoughtheirsinsareasscarletandredlikecrimson. 'Ifweconfessoursins,Heisfaithfulandjust to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from allunrighteousness.'IfwenowcometotheSavior,weshallfindacordial welcome; our sins shall be forgiven; our robeswashedand made white in the blood of the Lamb; and our namesenrolled in the book of life, among the living in the NewJerusalem.

'Searchtherecordsof;thesaved,'saysaneloquentwriter, 'andyou will see names of the most atrocious offenders who werepardoned,andsanctified,andarenowwithGod.Askthemhowthey escaped the wrath to come, and entered the everlastingrest?Withonevoicetheywillexclaim,Helovedus,andwashedits fromour sins inHisownblood!Askall the familyofgracewho shall speedily join the celestial throng,how theyobtaineddeliverance from the curse, and access to that absolutely holyGod?Withequalunanimitytheywillreply,WeareacceptedintheBeloved!Thereis,therefore,redemptionthroughHisblood.Letthedoubting,disconsolatesinnerthrowhimself,withallhisguiltandvileness,intothearmsofthisforgivingmercy.Itneveryet repulsed any one who came in the faith of theMediator'sblood, and it will not begin its repulses with you. Go withoutdelay; gowithall boldness in thisblood; andyou shall findascordialawelcomeasgracecangiveyou.'

Oh, how soothing is the voice that whispers to our troubledspirits- 'I,even I, amHe thatblotsout your transgressions forMy own sake, and will not remember your sins.' 'But you are

washed,butyouaresanctified,butyouarejustifiedinthenameoftheLordJesus,andbytheSpiritofourGod.''Son,beofgoodcheer;yoursinsbeforgiven.''Thatwasthegrace,softerthanoil,sweeterthanroses,whichflowedfromHislipsintothesinner'swounds, and which being poured into the contrite heart, notonly heals, but blesses it, yes, and marks it out for eternalblessedness.' (Leighton).LetuseverbeholdJesusas theLambof God, who takes away our sins; and go on our way to thepeaceful andhappy shoresof thebetter country, extolling thatmarvelousgracewhichhaspardonedall our sins, andbroughtusneartoGod.

'Forgiveness!itisajoyfulsound,TorebelsinnersdoomedtodiePublishtheblisstheworldaround;Youseraphs,shoutitfromthesky!Itistherichgiftoflovedivine;Itisfull-outmeasuringeverycrime;Uncloudedshallitsgloriesshine,Andfeelnochangebychangingtime.Forthisstupendousloveofheaven,Whatgratefulhonorshallweshow?Wheremuchtransgressionisforgiven,Letlovewithequalardorglow.Cheeredbythehopeofpardoninggrace,WecomeYourmercy,Lord,toprove;LikeweepingMary,letustasteApledgeofYourforgivinglove.

BlessedJesus,wearyandheavy-laden,IwouldcometoYouforYourpardoninggrace.Iwouldturnmyeyestothecross:IwouldbeholdthestreamofsalvationflowingfromYourpiercedside:Iwould look to You and live. Forgive, I beseech You, all myiniquities,andreleasemyburdenedsoul.Oh,maythebloodofsprinklingbeappliedby faith tomyconscience,preservingmefrom guilt, and enabling me to walk in the light of Yourcountenanceallmydays,untilthemessengerofdeathshallwaft

me to the blissful home on high,where I shallmeetwith thatgloriouscompanyofprophets,apostles,andmartyrs,whohavewashed their robes and made them white in Your blood, andjoin them, in nobler strains than I can now reach, in songs ofpraisetoYou,whohaslovedus,andwashedusfromoursinsinYourownblood.'Oh,letYourpreciousblooddivineWashallmysinsaway!Thenshallmysoulresplendentshine,Throughheaven'seternalday.'

COMETOTHESAVIORFORPEACE. 'PeaceI leavewithyou;mypeaceIgiveyou.Idonotgivetoyouastheworldgives.Donot let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.' 'ThesethingsIhavespokenuntoyou,thatinmeyoumighthavepeace.'Thisisablessedgift,andwemustcometoJesusforit.ItisHisdelightfulworktoimpartpeacetothetremblingconscience.Oursouls can never enjoy perfect peace unless they are stayed onHIM, who is the Prince of life and peace. From the blessedSaviorproceedsthatheavenlypeacewhichgladdensourhearts,andbeautifiesuswiththefruitsofrighteousness,untothegloryandpraiseofGod.Therighteousareledforthwithpeace.'Greatpeace have those who love Your law: and nothing can makethem stumble.' 'And thework of righteousness shall be peace;andtheeffectofrighteousness,quietnessandassuranceforever.Andmypeopleshalldwellinapeaceablehabitation,andinsuredwellings,andinquietresting-places.''Thereforebeingjustifiedby faith, we have peace with God, through our Lord JesusChrist.'

Now,wouldweenjoythatsweetpeaceofGodwhichpassesallunderstanding?ThenletuscometotheSavior;andinHimweshall find this solid and permanent peace, to compose, andstrengthen, and uplift us in our journey through a world ofstormsandafflictions,untilwereachthepeacefulshoreabove,where, amid the unclouded splendors ofEmmanuel's land,weshall cease from our labors, and sorrows, and pains, and

conflicts,andenteruponthatrestwhichremainstothepeopleofGod.

'BlessedSavior,speakthehealingword,Bidallmysorrowscease;Oh,bemygreatatoningLord.Myrighteousnessandpeace.Youaremyrefugeandmyrest,SweetpeaceinYouInowmayfind;Thericheststreamsofheavenlygrace,Tosootheandcalmmytroubledmind.'

COME TO THE SAVIOR FOR JOY. Says Jesus toHis faithfuldisciples, ' These things have I spoken unto you, that my joymight remain in you, and that your joy might be full.' Allsublunaryjoyisvain,andquicklypassesaway.True,lastingjoyis a blessing which does not spring from earthly sources. Itdescendsfromabove;itcomesfromtheblessedSavior;itflowsfromafaithfulreceptionof thegospelofHisgrace.It isoneofthe fruits of the Spirit, and is promised to the believer. It is astreamwhichwillneverfail. 'Your joynomantakesfromyou.''Everlastingjoyshallbeuntothem.'Likeariver,deepandwide,it will flow through all time, invigorating and enriching thesaints of theMostHigh, until it empties itself in the ocean ofeternalfelicitybeforethethroneofGod.It isaholyserenityofsoul-ajoyunspeakable,andfullofglory.Itisthestrengthofthebeliever; it fills his soul; it purifies his affections; it lifts hissanctifiedmind above the sorrows of the presentworld to thelandofsupreme,everlastingjoy.

This sacred joy of theChristian springs up in all its rapturousemotionswhenthecrossappearstoourview-whenwebelievethatJesus,withalltheinfiniterichesofHisgrace,isours-thatGod is our reconciled Father- that heaven is our future home.How blessed in a world like this, where earth-born joys soswiftly pass away, to be assured that there are holy andrapturousjoysinChrist,whichcanneverperish!

'Thriceblessed,yousaintoftheLord;InJesusyourrefugeisfound;Oh!trusttoHispromiseandword,Andjoysshallincreaseandabound.Yes!joyshallincreaselikeastream;Yourpeace,likethewavesofthesea;Yourgraceintogloryshallbeam;AndJesusyourportionshallbe.'

Butwho candescribe this holy joywhich the Savior gives, thevoiceofwhichisheardinthetabernaclesoftherighteous?Itiscalled'theoilofjoy''thejoyoftheLord'.Oh,theunutterablejoythatarisesintheheartwhen,byfaith,theRedeemerisseeninHismediatorialglory-whenthesouleatsof thebiddenmannaand drinks of the living stream!Howmany of the servants ofGod, while on earth, have been favored with the largestcommunicationsofthissacredjoyoftheLord!Whatforetastesof the joys of heaven are sometimes vouchsafed to themwhilemusingonthegreatthingsofGod!

It was while in this heavenly frame of mind, that the piousDoddridgepennedtheselinestoabelovedfriend-'Itispleasantto read, pleasant to compose, pleasant to converse with myfriends at home, pleasant to visit those abroad- the poor, thesick- pleasant to write letters of necessary business, by whichanygoodcanbedone-pleasanttogooutandpreachthegospelto poor souls, of which some are thirsting for it, and othersdyingwithout it- pleasant in the week-day to think how nearanotherSabbath is;but,oh!muchmorepleasant to thinkhownear eternity is, and how short the journey through thiswilderness, and that it is but a step from earth to heaven.'Experiencing the same high and holy pleasure of mind, hewrote, at a later period, in this happy strain- 'Last Lord's daywasour sacramentday, and indeed itwas amost comfortableone tome;my joyat thatordinancewas sogreat, that I couldnotwell contain it. Ihadmuchado to forbear telling all about

me, as well as I could- for it would have been but in a veryimperfectmanner-whatadivineflameIfeltinmysoul.Wereitpossibletocarrysuchimpressionsthroughlife,itwouldgivethesoulakindofindependencefartoohighforamortalexistence.It was indeed, in the most literal and proper sense, a joyunspeakable and full of glory.' The eminent John Howe, in aremarkable record of his personal experience, inscribed in hisstudyBible, speaks of the sublime joywhich filled his soul ontwooccasions,andtellsusthatwhathe'sensiblyfelt'ononeofthese, far surpassed the most expressive words his thoughtscould suggest. 'I then experienced an inexpressibly pleasantmeltingofheart;tearsgushingoutofmyeyes,forjoythatGodshould shedabroadHis love abundantly through the hearts ofmen, and that for this very purpose my own should be sosignallypossessedofandbyHisblessedSpirit.

Anothermost remarkable outpouring of this stream of sacredjoy,whichcomesfrom theSavior, andwhich so transports thesoulof thebeliever,wasvouchsafed to thedevoutJohnFlavel.Beingonceonajourney,hesethimself to improvethetimebymeditation;whenhismindgrew intent, until at lengthhehadsuch ravishing foretastes of heavenly joys, and such fullassurance of his interest therein, that he utterly lost the sightandsenseofthisworldandallitsconcerns,sothatforhoursheknew not where he was. At last perceiving himself faint, healighted from his horse and sat down at a spring, where herefreshedhimself,earnestlydesiring, if itwere thewillofGod,that he might there leave the world. His spirit reviving, hefinished his journey in the same delightful frame; and all thatnight passed without a wink of sleep, the joy of the Lord stilloverflowinghim, so that he seemed an inhabitant of the otherworld.

Letus come to theSavior, thatHis joymay remain inus, andthatourjoymaybefull.Andthoughwemaynot,whileonearth,experience such transports of holy joy as were vouchsafed tothosemenofGod,whoseexperiencewehavejustrecorded,yet

thetimeisathandwhenJesusshallappeartoourjoy-whenweshallcometoZionwitheverlastingjoyuponourheads;whenweshallexperiencea joytrulyunspeakableandfullofglory.Thenwill be fully accomplished the words of the prophet; 'Be glad;rejoiceforeverinmycreation!Andlook!IwillcreateJerusalemasaplaceofhappiness.Herpeoplewillbeasourceofjoy.IwillrejoiceinJerusalemanddelightinmypeople.Andthesoundofweepingandcryingwillbeheardnomore.''Theywillshoutwithjoylikewarriorsdividingtheplunder.'Thenwillhavecomethatmorning of joy, which shall never be followed by a night ofweeping.

We beseech you to come to the Savior for this heavenly joy,whichHeiswaitingtogiveyou:andthen,amidallthechangingscenes of your earthly course, you may sweetly sing- 'Eventhoughthefigtreeshavenoblossoms,andtherearenograpeson the vine; even though theolive crop fails, and the fields lieemptyandbarren;eventhoughtheflocksdieinthefields,andthecattlebarnsareempty,yetIwillrejoiceintheLord!Iwillbejoyful in the God of my salvation. The Sovereign Lord is mystrength!Hewillmakemeassurefootedasadeerandbringmesafelyoverthemountains.''IwillgreatlyrejoiceintheLord;mysoulshallbe joyful inmyGod; forHehasclothedmewith thegarments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe ofrighteousness.'

'HowsweetthesacredjoythatdwellsInsoulsrenewedbypowerdivine;WhereJesusallHisgoodnesstells:Oh!maythisjoybeevermine!DescendandblessYourservant,Lord,YourlovingSpiritnowimpart;SpeakYoutheall-enliveningword,Andsealsalvationtomyheart.Fromearthandallitsfleetingtoys,Beallmyfonddesireswithdrawn;Oh,fillmysoulwithheavenlyjoys,

Ofendlessblissthegloriousdawn.Thenshallmyrapturedspiritsing,Instrainsofpurecelestiallove;Whenborneonsomekindseraph'swing,Isoartobrighterworldsabove.'

COMETOTHESAVIORFORREST.Howprecious isHisowninvitation, 'Come to me, all of you who are weary and carryheavyburdens,andIwillgiveyourest.Takemyyokeuponyou.Letmeteachyou,becauseIamhumbleandgentle,andyouwillfind rest for your souls. For my yoke fits perfectly, and theburden I give you is light.' Our wearied souls will neverexperiencetruerestuntilwecometoJesus.Invainwillweseekfor perfect, uninterrupted rest in earthly things. This fleeting,sin-stained world is not the place of our rest. The sacredcommandis-'Arise,anddepart;forthisisnotyourrest:becauseitispolluted,it;shalldestroyyou,evenwithasoredestruction.'

Now, where shall we go for this blessing except to Him, whocamefromHeaventobringperfectresttoourwearysouls,andwhohasreturnedagaintothoseblessedmansionstoprepareaplace of eternal, joyful rest for us- a sweet repose beyond thestorms of life,where sin and care nomore disturb-where thewicked cease from troubling, andwhere theweary are at rest?Let the weary pilgrim of earth come to the Savior, who haspromisedtogivehimrest.'ForthussaystheLordGod,theHolyOne of Israel, In returning and rest shall you be saved; inquietness and in confidence shall be your strength.' Are youburdened with guilt and fears? Are you heavy laden withinnumerabletransgressions?Haveyouriniquitiestakenholdonyou,sothatyouarenotabletolookup?Anddoesnotyourheartfailyouwhenyouthinkofallthis?Now,doyounotdesirerestforyoursoul?ThencometoJesus,andlaydownyourburdensat the foot of His cross; look up with the eye of faith to Hisbleeding side; plead for an interest in 'the blood of sprinkling,thatspeaksbetter things than thatofAbel;'andyouwillenjoyrestonearth-spiritualrest,peaceofconscience,asweetserenity

ofsoul-andbeyondthegraveyouwillrestforeverintheblissfulhomeoftheredeemed;inthebosomofAbraham;inthearmsofJesus. Comply with the Savior's gracious invitation: come toHim, and He will surely give you rest- a rest from theaccusationsofaguiltyconscience-thecondemningpowerofthelaw- the corroding cares of life- the sorrows of theworld- thefear of death, judgment, and future punishment. Cast all yourcaresuponHim;restinHislove;trustinHispromises;andlookforwardwithjoytothatlong-desireddaywhenyouhopetorestwithHiminthemansionsofbliss.

Oh,divineSavior!bemyportion,thelotofmyinheritance.ThenshallIrejoiceinthemidstofsorrows,andbecalminthemidstof storms. Oh, speak peace to my troubled soul, and then allshallbestill.BlessedRedeemer!allwhocome toYou findrestunto theirsouls;andIwouldnowcome.Receiveme inmercy.CausemetoknowYouasmySavior,andtorejoicedailyinthejoyfulsoundofmercyextendedtothechiefofsinners.

'There'sahandofmercynearme,Thoughthewavesoftroubleroar;There'sanhourofresttocheerme,Whenthetoilsoflifeareover.Happyhour!whensaintsaregaining,Thatbrightcrowntheylongedtowear;Notonespotofsinremaining,Notonepangofearthlycare.Oh!torestinpeaceforever,Joinedwithhappysoulsabove;WherenofoemyheartcanseverFromtheSaviorwhomIlove.'

COME TO THE SAVIOR FOR COMFORT UNDER THE ILLSOFLIFE.TheChristian'sjourneythroughthisworldisattendedwithmanytrials,afflictions,temptations,andsorrows.Ifhehashis hours of holy joy, he has also his seasons of severe trial,when he needs the supporting arm of Jesus, his faithful,

almightyFriend,tokeephimfromsinkingbeneaththewavesoflife's ocean. 'In the world,' says the Savior, 'you shall havetribulation.' 'Wemust throughmuch tribulation enter into thekingdomofGod.' 'Manthat isbornofawoman isof fewdays,andfulloftrouble.'Someoftheillsthatwearecalledtoendurein our passage to the better country, are the loss of worldlysubstance, the opposition of an unbelieving world to ourChristianprofession,thecorruptionsofourownhearts,andtheassaultsof spiritual foes, bodily afflictions, and the removal ofourfriendsbydeath.

In this world of mutability we are exposed to continualvicissitude of fortune. In a day, or an hour, all our worldlysubstancemaybesweptaway.Thesunshineofprosperitydoesnotalwayslast;cloudsofadversitysuddenlyarisetodarkenoursky. 'For riches arenot forever; anddoes the crownendure toevery generation?' Change is written in the most legiblecharacters on everything connectedwith human affairs. Todaywe may be in the most prosperous circumstances; tomorrow,reduced to extreme poverty. 'Will you set your eyes upon thatwhich isnot? for riches certainlymake themselveswings; theyflyawayasaneagletowardsheaven.'

In theworldwewilloftenmeetwithoppositionat thehandofthe unrighteous. But as then he that was born after the fleshpersecutedhimthatwasbornaftertheSpirit,evensoitisnow.But while reposing in the Savior, the Christian is happy evenamidthehatred,thescorn,andderisionofthosewhohaveneverexperienced the true pleasures of a religious life. 'Blessed areyou,'saysChrist,'whenmenshallrevileyou,andpersecuteyou,andshallsayallmannerofevilagainstyoufalsely,formysake.Rejoice, and be exceeding glad, for great is your reward inheaven; for so they persecuted the prophets who were beforeyou.'

As longasweare inthisworldofsin,weareexposedtomanytemptations and weaknesses. In the best of saints there are

remainsofsin,whichwillneverbeentirelyeradicateduntiltheperiod of our complete redemption comes. While contendingwith the depravity of our hearts, we are, at the same time,exposedtotheattackofspiritualfoes.Howsevereistheconflictwhichthesaintisoftencalledtoendurewiththeenemiesofhissalvation!Howoften,inthecourseofhisearthlypilgrimage,ishereadytocryout,fromasenseofhisinwardcorruptionsandhis exposure to the assaults of the evil one: 'O wretchedmanthatIam!whoshalldelivermefromthebodyofthisdeath?' 'Ishallnowperishonedaybythehandofmyfoes.'Whilelookingaround him for help, he sees that none but Jesus is able todeliver him- he flees to Him for refuge, and is safe. In thatpreciousbloodwhichwaspouredoutuponthecross,heismorethan a conqueror over all his inward corruptions, and hisspiritualfoes.Hislanguagenowis: 'I thankGodthroughJesusChristmyLord.'

Here,weare subject tonumerousphysical ailments.Themostviolent diseases invade our system, and we are speedilystretchedonbedsofpain.'Heischastenedalsowithpainuponhisbed,and themultitudeofhisboneswithstrongpain.' 'Youhavetestedus,OGod;youhavepurifieduslikesilvermeltedinacrucible.Youcapturedusinyournetandlaidburdensonourbacks.'TothechildrenofGodafflictionsaresentinmercy.Theyaredirectedbylove.TheyaredesignedtouniteusmorecloselytotheSavior, tomortify indwellingsin, topurifyourhearts, towean us from earth, to elevate our affections to that blessedworldwherethereshallbenomorepain.'AndhaveyouentirelyforgottentheencouragingwordsGodspoketoyou,hischildren?Hesaid,Mychild,don'tignoreitwhentheLorddisciplinesyou,and don't be discouraged when he corrects you. For the Lorddisciplines thosehe loves,andhepunishes thoseheacceptsashis children.' 'As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten.' 'Mychild,don'tignoreitwhentheLorddisciplinesyou,anddon'tbediscouragedwhenhecorrects you.For theLordcorrects thosehe loves, justasa fathercorrectsachild inwhomhedelights.''Happy are thosewhomyoudiscipline, Lord, and thosewhom

you teach from your law. You give them relief from troubledtimesuntilapitisdugforthewicked.'

Here, death removes our dearest friends from our sight, andconsigns them to the silent grave.How soon are the tenderestearthlytiesbroken!Inaninstant,deathentersthehappyfamilycircle, and removes a kind husband, or an affectionatewife, abelovedsonordaughter.Howfrequentlyareseveralmembersofthe samehousehold, atnearly the same time, stretchedon thebedofdeath;whiletheheartsofsurvivingrelationsarerentwithpiercingagony!Thus'friendafterfrienddeparts,'thus'starafterstardeclines,untilallarepassedaway.'Now,howdelightfulisittotrustintheSaviorinthetimeofbereavement,whentheheartis crushed and earth made desolate! How blessed, at such aseason, is the privilege of coming to Him, who is theResurrectionandtheLife;andofhearingHisvoicewhisperingin our ears the soothing words, that our pious father andmother,brotherandsister,husbandandwife,sonanddaughter,shall live again; and that we, if followers of them, shall soonmeettheminaworldwherepartingisunknown-wherethereisan eternal calm for those who weep, a blissful rest for everywearyChristianpilgrim!InthedayofbereavementwecanfindnosupportlikethatwhichJesusgivestoourfaintingsouls.

HowcheeringisitthentoopentheVolumeofInspiration,andread the glorious declaration: 'For since we believe that Jesusdiedandwasraisedtolifeagain,wealsobelievethatwhenJesuscomes, God will bring back with Jesus all the Christians whohavedied.'Nowwill theSaviorbeunspeakablyprecious tous;nowwillheavenbestillmoreattractive,whenbyfaithwebeholdourpiousfriendstranslatedtothathappierworldtoshineinthelightofaperfect,uncloudedday.Oh,howexhilaratingtothink,withregardtothosewhohavediedintheLord,that'everygemwhichdeathrudelytearsawayfromushere, isagloriousjewelforever shining there;' that 'every Christian friend that goesbefore us from this world is a ransomed spirit waiting towelcomeusinheaven!'

Now,wherearewetolookforsupport,whenencompassedwiththese,earthly ills,unlesstoHimwhohassokindlyassuredus,that His grace is sufficient for us; for His strength is madeperfect in weakness? And how cheering in the dark night oftime,whentheChristianistossedbythetempest,anddrivenbythestorm,tolookupward,andbyfaith'seyediscern,beyondthesurroundinggloom,theBrightandMorningStarstillguidingusonward to the portwhere all is calm and peaceful; to aworldwhereallisirradiatedbythesplendorofaSunthatneversets-where the last grief is banished, and the cupof everlasting joyplaced in every hand! 'The Great Counselor,' says ThomasBrooks,'putscloudsanddarknessroundaboutHim,biddingusfollowatHisbeckthroughthecloud,promisinganeternalanduninterruptedsunshineontheotherside.'

'Oh!whocouldbearlife'sstormydoom,DidnotYourwordofloveComebrightlybearingthroughthegloom,Apeace-branchfromabove!Thensorrow,touchedbyYou,growsbright,Withmorethanrapture'sray,AsdarknessshowsusworldsoflightWeneversawbyday!'

By such cheering views of spiritual things our souls will besustainedinthehourofadversity;forwewillthenperceivethatJesus isonourside,andthateverybreezeofearthlysorrowisonly wafting us to those high and heavenly abodes, wheretemporal illsare foreverunknown.Wewill thenriseabovethestormsof life,andbeenabledtosaywithPaul, in themidstoftrouble;'Iamfilledwithcomfort,Iamexceedingjoyfulinallourtribulation.'Oh, then,whenpressedbypursuing foes,orwhenready tosinkunder the accumulated ills of life, let us come toHimwhoisthehopeofIsrael,theSaviorthereofinthetimeoftrouble.Our help is fromHim.He is our defense.Hewill notallowourfoottobemoved.Hewillkeepoursoulsinsafety.His

eye will ever watch over us. He will preserve us from all evil.'The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge intimesoftrouble.AndthosewhoknowYournamewillputtheirtrust inYou; for You, Lord, have not forsaken thosewho seekYou.' 'You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me fromtrouble;Youshallcompassmeaboutwithsongsofdeliverance.''Heshalldeliveryouinsixtroubles:yes,inseventhereshallnoeviltouchyou.'

Weary mariner on life's tempestuous ocean, when afflictionscloudyoursky,andbillowsroararoundyou,clingtotheSaviorin grateful, confiding love. Amid all your difficulties anddangers,Hewillwhisper consolation toyou, and support yourfainting soul. Yes, amid floods of tribulation, if you are foundrelying onHim, a 'still small voice'will be heard, reanimatingandcheeringyouwith the richest consolationand the choicestpromises.Youwillthenbeenabledtobearwithcomposurethetrialsoflife,knowingthat,liketheCaptainofoursalvation,youmust also be made perfect through suffering; and that theselightandmomentaryafflictionsareworkingforyouafarmoreexceedingandeternalweightofglory.

Youwill thenexperience the sweetnessof thedivinepromises,and in the midst of outward trouble, enjoy inward peace.Yieldingthepeaceablefruitofrighteousnessinyoursoul,thesetrialswillbringyourfaithandloveintolivelyexercise,composeyouragitatedspirit,andenableyoutoglorifytheLordeven 'inthe fires.' And 'when He gives quietness, who then can maketrouble?'

Itistheblessedprivilegeofbelievers,intheirafflictions,tohaveOneliketheSonofGodwalkingwiththeminthemidstof thefire.Inalltheafflictionsof thesaints,Christ iswiththem;andHewillbringthemoutofthe 'furnace'asgoldtriedinthefire-purifiedseventimes.'InalltheirafflictionHewasafflicted,andthe angel of His presence saved them.' 'Though I walk in themidstoftrouble,youpreservemylife;youstretchoutyourhand

againsttheangerofmyfoes,withyourrighthandyousaveme.'ThricehappytheywhocometosuchaSavior-whoenjoysuchaconsolation! 'Happy are you,O Israel,who is like unto you,OpeoplesavedbytheLord,theshieldofyourhelp,andwhoistheswordofyourexcellency!''Happyisthatpeoplethatisinsuchacase;yes,happyisthatpeoplewhoseGodistheLord!'

'Oforabreezeofheavenlylove,Towaftmysoulaway,Tothatcelestialplaceabove,Wherepleasuresneverdecay.Come,mySavior,OmySavior,ComeandblessYourpeoplenow,WhileatYourfeetwehumblybow,Ocomeandsaveusnow;Thenwewillsingoursufferingsover,AndpraiseYouevermore.EternalSpirit,deigntobeOurPilotherebelow,Tosteerthroughlife'stempestuoussea,Wherestormywindsdoblow.Fromrocksofprideoneitherhand,Fromquicksandsofdespair,OguideussafetoCanaan'sland,Througheverylatentsnare.Anchorusinthatportabove,Onthatcelestialshore,Wheredashingbillowsnevermove,Wheretempestsneverroar.'

COME TO THE SAVIOR FOR SUPPORT IN THE HOUR OFDEATH.Weareallstandingontheshoresoftime,andbeforeusstretchestheunfathomableoceanofeternity.Tothisvastabyssthemillionsofearth'sinhabitantsarefasthastening.Everydaythat closes, everyhour thatpasses, everymoment that flies, isbringing us nearer to it. On its mighty surface every humanbeingmustsoonembark;forwhatmanishethatlives,andshall

not see death? 'Generations come and generations go, but theearthremainsforever.'Thegrave is thehomeappointedforallliving. Everything passes away. A great and mighty river, foragesandcenturies,hasbeenrollingon,andsweepingawayallthat ever lived, to the vast abyss of eternity.On that darknesslightdoesnotrise.Fromthatunknowncountrynonereturn.Onthat devouring deep, which has swallowed up everything, novestigeappearsofthethingsthatwere.Andstill-

'Theairofdeathbreathesthroughoursouls,Thedeadall'rounduslie;Bydayandnightthedeath-belltolls,Andsays,"Preparetodie!"Thelovingoneswelovethebest,Likemusicallaregone!AndthewanmoonlightbathesinrestTheirmonumentalstone.'

Deathisthemessengerthatconductsusintotheinvisibleworld;andthismessengermaybeverynearus.Onestepmore,andhisicy handmay be laid upon us to remove us from our dearestfriendsonearth, todissolveall theattachmentsof life, tohidefromusallearthlyscenes,andtoopentoourview the solemnrealities of an eternalworld. It is appointeduntomenonce todie-andwhowilldenythatit isamostseriousthingtodie-toappear before the bar of God- to leave this world, and enteruponanuntriedstateofexistence?

Now,willwenotneedmorethanhumansupportinthatsolemnandtryinghourwhentheskillofphysiciansisbaffled-whenthetears of friends areunavailing-when the cold sweat standsonour aching brow-when the pulse is ceasing to beat-whenourbody isabout toreturn to thedustas itwas,andour spirit, toGodwhogaveit?Wherethenisthisdesiredaidtobefound?InthedivineandcompassionateSavior.Yes,allthesupportthatisnecessary to smooth, and enlighten, and cheer our passage tothetomb,isfoundinJesus.ThebelieverwhocomestoHimfor

sustaining grace in his last hour, will find that death is adisarmedfoe-thatthegravehasbeenhallowedforhisreposebyourLordandSaviorJesusChrist.StandingontheRockofAges,he can look down into the gloomymansion of the grave withcomposureandevenwithtriumph.IndeaththeSaviorwhomhehaslovedinlife,willbeverynearhim,showingHimselfaverypresenthelpintrouble,consolinghimwiththepromisesofHisgrace, and cheering him with a blissful hope of immortality.Then will He indeed speak peace to the departing believer,whosedeathispreciousinHissight.

Howsoul-comfortingtohearthevoiceofJesus,speakingtousin tonesof the tenderestkindness,asweapproach the riverofdeath- 'When youpass through thewaters, Iwill bewith you;and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you;when youwalkthroughthefire,youshallnotbeburned;neithershalltheflamekindleuponyou.'Thatvoicewhichhassooftenspokentousinlife,throughthewordandordinancesofdivinegrace,willnotbesilentwhenwecometodie.It istheblessedprivilegeofbelieverstohearthewordsofJesus,whilestandingonthebanksofJordan.

'Yes,indeath,Amidthetumultofthebody'spain,Thatvoiceisheard,tellingthesuffererOfcomfortingsandofsupportings,throughJordan'scoldwaters;anditsmellowtonesLingeruntilthelast,thenbreakinallTheravishing,exultingairsofheaven.'Howblessed then tohave thearmsofJesus, theConquerorofdeath, upholding our shrinking souls, shielding us from allalarm, sweetening our passage through the dark valley, andconductingussafelythrougheverytempest,andthrougheverybillow,intothepromisedrestabove!

To the saint death is an unspeakable advantage, as it is thepassage from the wilderness of this world to the heavenly

Canaan; the entrance to our Father's house, in which are the'many mansions' of glory. It delivers him from all the evilsincident to humanity- terminates his period of discipline, toil,trial,conflict-andbringshimintoastateofperfectholinessandhappiness before the throne of God in the highest heavens.Hence,wereadonthesacredpage,'Blessedarethedeadwhichdie in theLord fromhenceforth:Yes, says theSpirit, that theymay rest from their labors; and their works do follow them.'DeathisnumberedamongthetreasuresofaChristian.Whether'life ordeath- all are yours.'1L22. It ishis great gain.The lastdayofhislifeistohimtheopeningofimmortality.'FortometoliveisChrist,andtodieisgain.'Assoonasdeathterminatesthebeliever'sexistenceonearth,heentersupon the inheritanceofallthoseexceedinggreatandpreciouspromiseswhichtheWordof God holds forth to the children of faith. He passes at oncefromthedarknessofearthtothelightandgloryofthecelestialworld.Heputsoffthemortalbody,forthatbuildingofGod,thathouse not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. Heexchangesthisvalleyoftearsanddeathforaworldfromwhoseblissfulmansionsallsorrowfleesaway,andwherethereshallbenomoredeath.Hegoestomeet,onahappiershore,thefriendshe loves- his companions in faith- and to share their heavenlyrest,andtojoinwiththemintheircelestialmusic.

Hedeparts to bewithChrist; andoh,what sincere follower ofthe adorable Redeemer, who is now enthroned amid heaven'sineffableglories,wouldnot ratherbeabsent from thebody, tobepresentwithHim!WithwhatearnestaffectiondidholyPauldesiretobewiththeblessedSavior,whoisnowholdingoutthecrownoflifetothefaithful-whoisreadytoembraceusallwithHisgraciousarms! 'For I am ina straitbetween two,havingadesire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better.'Viewing our latter end in this scriptural light, may not everychildofGod,ashethinksoftheblessingswhichdeathbringstotherighteous,saywithJob:'Iwouldnotlivealways.'

'Who,whowouldlivealways,awayfromhisGod,

Awayfromyonheaven,thatblissfulabode,Wheretheriversofpleasuresflowoverthebrightplains,AndthenoontideofgloryeternallyreignsWherethesaintsofallagesinharmonymeet,TheirSaviorandbrethrentransportedtogreet,Whilethesongsofsalvationunceasinglyroll,AndthesmileoftheLordisthefeastofthesoul?'

We inviteyou tocome to theSavior for support in the solemnhour of death. Would you be filled with the blissful hope ofimmortalityasyoustandonthebordersoftheoceanofeternity?Thencome to theSavior!Therighteoushashope inhisdeath.And it is the religion of Christ alone that inspires this blessedhope in the departing believer. TheGospel is that glasswhichgivesafairanddelightfulprospectofthosehillsofParadiseandpleasurethatliebeyondthegrave.Wouldyoubedeliveredfromfear,whilewalking through the valley of the shadowof death-whilestandingonthebanksofthatriverthroughwhichwemustallpass?ThencometotheSavior;andyoumayconfidentlysay:'Yes,thoughIwalkthroughthevalleyoftheshadowofdeath,Iwill fearnoevil; forYouarewithme;Your rodandYour stafftheycomfortme.'ItisthegloryoftheChristianreligionthustoraisethe soul above the fear of death.Would youbedeliveredfromthepowerofthelastenemy?ThencometotheSavior,andyoumay say- 'Godwill redeemmy soul from thepowerof thegrave;forHeshallreceiveme.'Wouldyoubedeliveredfromthestingofdeath?ThencometotheSavior,exercisingfirmfaithinthebloodofHiscross;andyoumayexclaiminthelanguageofexultation,whiledescending thebanksof theJordanofdeath,andabout to step into itsdarkwaters- 'Odeath,where isyoursting?Ograve,whereisyourvictory?Thestingofdeathissin;and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be toGod,whogivesusthevictory,throughourLordJesusChrist.'Howcanweendure the thoughtofmeeting themessengerofdeathwithoutthesupportingarmoftheSavior?Willnot'theterrors'ofthelastenemy fall heavily on us, if we are not found in Christ, thesinner'sFriend,ouronlystay?Howcanourwearysoulsengage

inthatlast,mortalconflict,iftheCaptainofoursalvationisnotleadingusontovictoryandtoglory?

'Ifyouhave runwith the footmen,and theyhaveweariedyou,then how can you contend with horses? and if in the land ofpeace,whereinyoutrusted,theyweariedyou,thenhowwillyoudo in theswellingofJordan?' Ifwewillnot come toHimwhohas conquered death for believers, who will smooth andenlighten our passage through the rough and shadowy valley?Who will still the tossing of the stream of death and hush itsroar?Whowillcalmourfears,andsustainourspiritinthelasthour of its earthly struggle?Whowill command the billows ofdeathtowaftus to thedesiredhavenofeternal rest?Whowillhold out for us the crown of life?Who will disclose to us thebeauties and glories of heaven? Who will bring us to themansionsoffelicity?Whowillfeeduswiththebreadoflife,andleadustothelivingfountainsofwaters?NonebutHewhohasthekeysofdeath,andoftheinvisibleworld,canperformallthisforus.ItistheSavioralone,whocanturnthenightofdeathintothemorning-evenamorning'withoutclouds'.

Hewill guide us safely over the ocean of life to yonder shore,where there is uninterrupted sunshine and ineffable joy. 'ForthisGodisourGodforeverandever.Hewillbeourguideevenuntodeath.'Oh,then, 'seektheLord,andyoushall live!'Cometo the Savior for all these blessings. Come; for all things areready.Then,inthehourofdeathChristwillbeyourrefuge;thenwillHiseverlastingarmsbeunderneathyou; thenwillHisrodand staff comfort you; thenwillHe bewith youuntil the last;andyoushallawakeamidtheunutterablesplendorsofheaven,to be foreverwith the Savior inmansions of light and felicity.Thenwillthewordsofprophecybefinallyaccomplishedinyourhappy experience: 'I will ransom them from the power of thegrave; Iwill redeem them fromdeath.O death, Iwill be yourplagues,Ograve,Iwillbeyourdestruction.'

Happy,indeed,willbethedepartureofhimwhohastrulycome

totheSaviorforsupportinthehourofdeath.Thoughdarknessmay sometimes gather over his soul, yet it will speedily bedispelled by the piercing beams of the Sun of Righteousness.Withhimalliscalmandserene;forhissinsareforgiven.Hehaspeace within: joy beams in his countenance. His soul isdelighted with joyful prospects beyond the grave. He is filledwith strong consolation. The sweet thought of going to hisheavenlyhomenowoccupieshismind,elevatinghisviews,andcheeringhisspirit.Hethinksof thegloriesofhis final rest- itsfullness of joy- its blessed inhabitants- its delightfulemployments- its never-ending pleasures. He feels, that whileearth is passing from his view, the portals of those blessedmansionsof light are opening for his entrance, andhe knows,thatinyonderhomeoftheredeemedhewilldienomore.Nowishejoyfulinglory;nowdoeshesingaloudonhisbed.

Said a pious minister of the Gospel, who was remarkablysustainedbytheSavior inhis lastearthlymoments: 'Oh,thatIhadstrength to shout! I feel sohappy; Ihope soon tobe able.Oh, the precious Savior; what is the world to me, with all itsvanity?GivemeJesus.Donotweepforme,Iamgoinghome.'How well are the feelings of the departing Christian, who ischeered and consoled by the sight of these gloriousmansionsloomingthroughthemistsofthedarkvalley,expressedbythesebeautifulandtouchinglines-'Myheavenlyhomeisbrightandfair;Norpain,nordeathcanenterthere.Itsglitteringtowersthesunoutshine,Thoseheavenlymansionshallbemine.I'mgoinghome,I'mgoinghome,I'mgoinghome,todienomore!MyFather'shouseisbuiltonhigh,Far,farabovethestarryskyWhenfromthisearthlyprisonfree,Thatheavenlymansionmineshallbe!Whilehereastrangerfarfromhome,Affliction'swavesmayroundmefoam;

AndthoughlikeLazarus,sickandpoor,Myheavenlymansionissecure.Letothersseekahomebelow,Whichflamesdevour,orwavesoverflow,Beminethehappierlottoown,Aheavenlymansionnearthethrone.Thenfailthisearth,letstarsdecline,Andsunandmoonrefusetoshine;Allnaturesinkandceasetobe,Thisheavenlymansionstandsforme!I'mgoinghome,I'mgoinghome,I'mgoinghome,todienomore!'

Let us admire the rich grace of the Savior, who has providedsuchstrongandblessedconsolationforbelieversinthehourofdeath- a consolation which enables us to say: 'Though ouroutwardmanperish,yettheinwardmanisreneweddaybyclay.''Myfleshandmyheartfails;butGodisthestrengthofmyheart,andmy portion forever.' Let us rejoice, that even in the darkvalleyofdeath,andintheswellingofJordan,JesusappearsastheStarofMorning,toguideustothelightandblessednessofheaven's unclouded day. Let us keep our eyes fixed on thisbright and Morning Star amid all the events of our earthlypilgrimage,untilthegloryofEmmanuel'slandbeamsuponus-until we take up the song of salvation on the eternal bliss ofParadise.

LordJesus,brightandMorningStar,bemyguidethroughlife-mysupportindeath-myportionthrougheternity.Inthesolemnhourofmydeparturebeverynearme, tosustainmydroopinghead,tofillmewithhopeandjoy,torollbackthefoamingwave,andtosmoothmypassagetotherealmsofday.OYou,who,inYour amazing love for sinners, did condescend to assume ournature,andtodie forus, illuminatewithraysofheavenly lightmypathwaythroughtheshadowyvalley,dispelallthegloomofthegrave,andleadme,withsongsofvictory,intotheregionsoflife and immortality- the promised land of rest, beyond the

swellingofJordan.Yes-'Whenthevalleyofdeathappears,Faintandcoldthismortalclay,KindForerunner,soothemyfears,LightmethroughthedarksomewayBreaktheshadows,Usherineternalday.'COMETOTHESAVIORFORTHEFELICITIESOFHEAVEN.No created being can tell how great and invaluable thoseheavenly blessings are, which the Savior has procured for Hisfollowers.'Eyehasnotseen,norearheard,neitherhaveenteredinto the heart ofman, the things whichGod has prepared forthosewholoveHim.'IntheWordofGod,however,weobtaina'glimpse' of the glory of the redeemed before the throne, andwiththeblessedVolumeofInspirationinourhands,letushere,briefly,museonsomeoftheirineffablejoys.

TheredeemeddwellinaCityoflight,thenewJerusalemabove,whose walls are of precious stones, whose gates of pearl, andwhosestreetsofpuregold.Howmagnificent is thedescriptionwhichtheapostleJohngivesofthisgloriouscity,whichhesawcoming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a brideadorned for her husband!- 'So he tookme in spirit to a great,high mountain, and he showed me the holy city, Jerusalem,descendingoutofheavenfromGod.ItwasfilledwiththegloryofGodandsparkledlikeapreciousgem,crystalclearlikejasper.Thecitywaspuregold,asclearasglass.Thetwelvegatesweremade of pearls-each gate from a single pearl! And the mainstreetwaspuregold,asclearasglass.Notemplecouldbeseenin the city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are itstemple.Andthecityhasnoneedofsunormoon,forthegloryofGod illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its light. Its gatesnevercloseattheendofdaybecausethereisnonight.Andallthe nations will bring their glory and honor into the city.Nothing evil will be allowed to enter-no one who practicesshameful idolatry and dishonesty-but only thosewhose namesarewrittenintheLamb'sBookofLife.'

Whatafloodoflightispouredoverthatgoldencity,whosegloryemanatesfromtheuncreatedOne,withwhomisthefountainofalllightandfelicity!LetusascendtheMountofPisgah,andbythe eye of faith, view the grandeur and magnificence of theheavenly City- that Citywhich has foundations,whose builderand maker is God. See! no shadows fall on those blessedmansionsintheCityofourGod.All,allisbrightnessthere-nonightthere.ForthereHe,whoisthebrightnessoftheFather'sglory,theSunofRighteousness,shineswithunveiledsplendor,making endless day. It is the blessed vision of His face thatrenders the City so glorious; for the Lamb is the light of it.There,nonatural luminary isneeded; forwe shallwalk in thelight of Emmanuel's countenance through an unending day.'Andtheyneednocandle,neitherlightofthesun;fortheLordGodgivesthemlight:andtheyshallreignforeverandever.'Oh,whoisnotreadytowelcomethe longsweet lightof theCityofour God- the unbroken, eternal sunshine on the banks of thepureriverofthewateroflife,clearascrystal,proceedingoutofthethroneofGodandoftheLamb!

The redeemed enjoy the best society. 'No, you have come toMount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenlyJerusalem, and to thousandsof angels in joyful assembly.Youhave come to the assembly of God's firstborn children,whosenames are written in heaven. You have come to God himself,whoisthejudgeofallpeople.Andyouhavecometothespiritsof the redeemed in heaven who have now beenmade perfect.YouhavecometoJesus,theonewhomediatesthenewcovenantbetween God and people, and to the sprinkled blood, whichgraciously forgives instead of crying out for vengeance as thebloodofAbeldid.'

They dwell with God, and behold His face in righteousness.'Behold, the tabernacle ofGod iswithmen, andHewill dwellwiththem,andtheyshallbeHispeople,andGodHimselfshallbewiththem,andbetheirGod.' 'Blessedarethepureinheart:

fortheyshallseeGod.'Noheartcanconceivetheblessednessofthis beatific vision. To see Him who is invisible- to see theblessed God with the eye of the mind- to enjoy perpetualcommunion with Him- is a source of the purest and mostrapturous joy. Oh, to dwell forever with God in that blissfulrealm of love, where we shall see Him not through a glassdarkly, but face to face- where we shall know as also we areknown!Whatclearandenrapturingviewsof theperfectionsoftheDivinenaturewill therebeaffordedus!Onthoseshoresoflife and immortality none will ever have reason to say withafflictedJob- 'Oh,ifonlyIknewwheretofindGod,Iwouldgotohisthroneandtalkwithhimthere!Behold,Igoforward,butHeisnotthere;andbackward,butIcannotperceiveHim:onthelefthand,whereHedoeswork,butIcannotbeholdHim:HehidesHimselfontherighthand,thatIcannotseeHim.'

The saints in light behold the glory of the Redeemer, sit withHimonHisthrone,andenjoyHiscompanionship.SaysChrist,'Father, Iwill that theyalsowhomYouhavegivenmebewithmewhereIam;thattheymaybeholdmyglory.whichYouhavegivenme.' 'TohimthatovercomeswillIgranttositwithmeinmythrone,evenasIalsoovercame,andhavesatdownwithmyFatherinHisthrone.'TobewithChrist,tositwithHimonHisthrone, to enjoyHis companionship, to beholdHis glory- willconstitute the very heaven of the redeemed. Oh, with whatraptureofspiritwillwethenbeholdHisglory,whenweseeHimasHe is, investedwithall theperfectionsof thedivinenature,shiningastheBrightandMorningStar-asthebrightnessofHisFather'sglory,andtheexpressimageofHisPerson!

Inheavenweshallhavethesocietyoftheinnumerablecompanyofholyangels;andthereweshallalsositdownatthebanquetofredeeminglovewithAbraham,Isaac,andJacob-thereweshallmeetthesaintsofallagesandnations-agreatmultitude,whichnomancannumber-andminglewiththeminblissfulharmony,celebratingthepraisesofHimthatsitsuponthethrone,foreverandever.

The redeemed sing the song ofMoses and the Lamb, the newsongofsalvation. 'Andtheysanganewsongwiththesewords:"Youareworthytotakethescrollandbreakitssealsandopenit.For you were killed, and your blood has ransomed people forGodfromeverytribeandlanguageandpeopleandnation.Andyou have caused them to become God's kingdom and hispriests.''UntoHimthatlovedus,andwashedusfromoursinsinHisownblood,andhasmadeuskingsandpriestsuntoGodandHis Father; to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever.''After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from everynationand tribeandpeopleand language, standing in frontofthethroneandbeforetheLamb.Theywereclothedinwhiteandheldpalmbranchesintheirhands.Andtheywereshoutingwithamighty shout, "Salvation comes fromourGod on the throneandfromtheLamb!"

How ravishing is this song, the themeofwhich is salvationbythe cross of Christ! Standing before the throne of God, andserving Him day and night, the redeemed are swellingforevermorethestrainofpraisetoHimwhooncewas slainonCalvary.Itispleasanttosingthissongofsalvationaswejourneyhomeward;butoh,howsweettosingitongoldenharpsbythebanksof thepure riverof thewaterof life, in themidstof theupper Paradise,when all the ransomed ones shallmeet, 'fromsinandsorrowfree!'Howunspeakablethebliss!'AndIheardasound from heaven like the roaring of a greatwaterfall or therollingofmightythunder.Itwaslikethesoundofmanyharpistsplayingtogether.ThisgreatchoirsangawonderfulnewsonginfrontofthethroneofGodandbeforethefourlivingbeingsandthetwenty-fourelders.Andnoonecouldlearnthissongexceptthose144,000whohadbeenredeemedfromtheearth.'

Oh,whenshallwe listen to themelodyofheaven?Whenshallwerisetojointhemusicofthosebrighterskies?Whenshallwesing in exalted strains the song ofMoses and the Lamb?Howardentlyhavethechildrenoffaithdesiredthisheavenlyfelicity!

Howhave they longed to reach thepeacefulheaven- tominglewiththechoirsofsaintsandangelsroundthethrone,totakeupthe heavenly harps, and sing the hallelujah, blessing, honor,glory,andpower, toHimthat sitsupon the throne,and to theLambforeverandever!

'Thatheavenlymusic!whatisitIhear?ThenotesoftheharpersringsweetintheairAndsee,softunfoldingthoseportalsofgold;TheKingallarrayedinHisbeautybehold!O!giveme,O!givemethewingsofadove!LetmehastenmyflighttothosemansionsaboveAy,itisnowthatmysoulonswiftpinionswouldsoar,Andinecstasybidearthadieuevermore!

The redeemed rest from sorrow and pain, and all the ills andburdens of the present life. Emmanuel's land is one of sweet,everlastingrepose.Whenwelandonthatpeacefulshore,wherenobillowseverbeat,whereno tempestsever roar,ourdaysoftoilandsufferingwillhaveforeverended.TherethelastteariswipedawaybyourFather'shand. 'AndGodshallwipeawayalltearsfromtheireyes;andthereshallbenomoredeath,neithersorrow,norcrying,neithershalltherebeanymorepain:fortheformer things are passed away.' 'Therefore are they before thethroneofGod,andserveHimdayandnightinHistemple:andHe that sits on the throne shall dwell among them.They shallhungernomore,neither thirstanymore;neithershall the sunlightonthem,noranyheat.FortheLambwhoisinthemidstofthe throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto livingfountainsofwaters:andGodshallwipeawayalltearsfromtheireyes.' Oh, blessed world, where sin, and sorrow, and sighing,anddeathnevercome;whenshallyourineffablegloriesopentomyenrapturedview?Whenshall I see theKing inHisbeauty,andthelandthatisveryfaroff?

WhilesittingundertheshadowoftheTreeofLifeinthemidstofParadise, how delightful will it be to look back on theway by

whichtheLordhasledusthroughthewildernessofthisworld,and to think of those great tribulations out of which we havecome!Howwill the thought sweetenourheavenly repose, andcauseustoascribeunceasingpraisetoHimwholedusforthbya right way, that wemight go to a city of habitation- that wemight enjoy a peaceful rest in the heavenly Paradise. Oh, thesweetthought- 'Thereremains thereforearest to thepeopleofGod.'Yes-'Thereisanhourofpeacefulrest,Tomourningwanderersgiven;Thereisatearforsoulsdistressed,Abalmforeverywoundedbreast,Itisfoundabove-inheaven!Thereisasoft,adownybed,Itisfairasbreathofeven',Acouchforwearymortalsspread,Wheretheymayresttheirachinghead,Andfindreposeinheaven!'

Theredeemedwillneverdie.'Andthereshallbenomoredeath.'In the resurrection the saints will rise to immortality, and beclothed with bodies like unto Christ's glorious body. Eternalhealth and vigor, strength and beauty, will be given to them.Thendeathwillbeforeverswallowedupinvictory.Howunlikethisregionofmortality isyonblessedworld!Here,ourdearestandmostvaluablefriendsareremovedfromusbytherelentlessarmofdeath.There,theyshallliveforevermore.Here,wemustsoon,verysoon,partwith thosewe love thebest.There, thereshall be no more separation- no more change through thecirclingyearsofeternity!

The felicity of the redeemed will be eternal. In those brighterskies the Sun of Righteousness will never set: there He shallalways shine in meridian splendor; and from His gladdeningand life-giving beams all mourning shall forever flee away.There,Godwill beourGod forever andever.Blessed thought!Eternity is the crowning glory of the felicity of the redeemed.

'But Israel shall be saved in the Lord with an everlastingsalvation: you shall not be ashamed nor confounded worldwithoutend.''Andtheyshallreignforeverandever.'Thecrownwhichtheywear isan incorruptibleone-acrownofglory, thatfades not away. The kingdom which they inherit is aneverlasting one. The house which is prepared for them by anascended Savior, is 'eternal in the heavens,' and from it they'shallgonomoreout.'

Howdelightful,inaworldlikethis,wherethedearesttiesaresoquicklybroken,wherethecupofjoyissosoonemptied,tothinkof that unchanging day beyond the grave- of those blessedscenes of permanent delight- of joys themost rapturous- of afellowship themost sweet, intimate, and enduring- of awholeeternityoflove!Whatconsolationisthereinthethoughtoftheendlessness of heaven's joys!How it expands the affections ofthesoul,andraisesthemabovethispassingworld!Howitbearsusabove thecares, the trials,andafflictionsofourpilgrimage,and causes these very tribulations to redound to our future,everlastingwelfare!

Now,whoisnotreadytocometotheSaviorforthoseheavenlyfelicities?Hehaspreparedthemforbelievers:anditisHisroyalprerogativetobestowthemuponallwhocometoHim.Hisownlanguageis; 'Igiveuntothemeternal life.'This includesall theblessings of glory.How clear and emphatic the language! Yes,Jesus will bring His redeemed ones to the City of light, theheavenlyJerusalem,dwellwiththem,putnewsongsofpraiseintheirmouths,removefromthemallsorrowandpain,givethemfullness of joy, invest themwithwhite robes, and crown themwithimmortality.And now, shall we remain away from the Savior, since thefountainofeternallife-ofsupremebliss-iswithHim?andsinceHeso freelydispensesHisdivine favors?Letus repair toHimforthesefelicities,andHewillenrichusevermore.Letuscomewith faith in the blood of His cross; and when we pass fromearth, we shall dwell in those mansions which have been

preparedbyHisgrace,andenjoyallthosepleasureswhichflowinthepresenceofGod.

COME TO THE SAVIOR NOW. 'Behold, now is the acceptedtime; behold, now is the day of salvation.' How solemn andimportantarethesewords;andhowdeeplydotheyconcernuspilgrimsof aday, pressingon to an eternal abode!Now is thetime forus to come to theSavior:now isourdayof salvation.Today, if youwillhearHis voice,hardennot yourhearts.'Thepresentmomentonlyisours;theverynextmayfindourspiritsbefore the bar of God. How invaluable then, to us, is thismomentforsecuringasavinginterestintheSavior,andthejoysofheaven!Theinvitationsofthegospelaregiveninthepresenttense, because of the shortness of time, the brevity anduncertainty of life, and the impossibility of obtainingredemption beyond the grave. Let us here reflect on thesemomentoustopics.How many souls have gone down to the pit of the lost, byrefusingorneglectingtocometotheSaviorinthisacceptedtimeand day of salvation- now. Many still imagine they will havetime enough to attend to the important concerns of salvation.Before them longyearsofearthlypleasureriseup inprospect;while,perhaps, tomorrowthecurrentof lifewill suddenlystopintheirveins,andtheicyhandofdeathlaythemlowinthedust.'Todayman is, tomorrowhe isnot seen.' In theScriptures thebrevityofourlifeisexpressedundervarioussimilitudes,suchasthe flower of the field- the wind- a leaf driven to and fro- ashadow- a runner- the swift ships- an eagle hastening to theprey-anhandbreadth-aspan-avanity-adream-atalethat istold.'Mydaysareswifterthanaweaver'sshuttle,andarespentwithout hope.' 'Behold, You have made my days as anhandbreadth;andmyageisasnothingbeforeYou:verily,everymanathisbeststateisaltogethervanity.''Ourdaysonearthareasashadow,andthereisnoneabiding.''Forwhatisyourlife?Itis like vapor, that appears for a little time, and then vanishesaway.' 'All flesh is grass, andall the goodness thereof is as theflower of the field: the grasswithers, the flower fades.' 'In the

morning it flourishes, and grows up; in the evening it is cutdown,andwithers.'

'Liketenderflowers,weopenthebud,Andgreetthemorningray;Butbeforeitisnoonwedroopandfade,Thecreaturesofaday.YetonthislittledayoflifeWhatmightythingsdependEternaltorments,orthejoyThatknowsnoboundnorend.'

We should come to the Savior now because our time is short,anditscontinuanceeverymomentuncertaintous. 'Rememberhow short my life is, how empty and futile this humanexistence!' 'The time is short.'Oh, thebrevity of time!Oh, therapidityofitsflight!Lookbackonpastyears-howquicklyhavethey gone! And how swiftly does the presentmoment fly, stillbearingourlifeaway!Howfewproperlyweighthevalueoftime!Whatmultitudesspenditsgoldenhoursonemptyjoys,refusingto come to the Savior for the glories of immortality! And howmanyneverstoptothinkoftheendlessjoysorgriefswhicharesuspended on time's flying moments! Let us regard the voicewhich calls us to the Savior now- this precious instant, Now.Thismoment'strivetoenterinatthestraitgate.''SeektheLordwhile He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.''Whateveryourhandfindstodo,doitwithyourmight;forthereisnowork,nordevice,norknowledge,norwisdom,inthegrave,whereyougo.'

Letusseriouslyreflectontheshortnessoftime,thatwemaybeled to seek the Savior now, while the day of grace continues-whilethegoldenscepterofforgivenessisextendedtous.Todaytheportalsofheavenareopenedforus;tomorrowtheymaybecloseduponus FOREVER.Then let us not saywith Felix, 'Goyourway for the time;whenIhaveaconvenientseason, Iwillcallforyou.'LetusinstantlyfleetothecrossofJesus.Whenwe

havesuchabriefspaceinwhichtoattendtotheinterestsofoursouls, should we put off those momentous spiritual concernsuntilwhatwecallamoreconvenientseason,since'deathstandswatchingatour side, eager to stop the living tide?'What folly,what infatuation for pilgrims, who tarry here but a night, topursueacourseofprocrastination inmattersof religion! IfwerefuseorneglecttocometotheSaviornow,wemayneverhaveanother opportunity. Tomorrow's sunmay rise on our lifelessremains. The gravemay be ready to receive us, and the greenturftocoverus.Suchhasbeen thecasewith thousands,whoweredreamingoflong years of earthly happiness, and neglecting the blessedSaviorandHisgreatsalvation.Whileinhealth,deathhascomeupintotheirwindows;andtheyhavesuddenlypassedawayasavisionofthenight.Someofthem,doubtless,thoughtofcomingtotheSavior infuturedays,butalas, 'tomorrow'neverroseonthem.They failed to improve thepresenthour;andnow,alloflife's precious moments have fled- they have forever lost that'inestimabletreasure,time'-theyhavelosttheirsouls-theyhavelostheaven-theyhavelostallthatisgood,andincurredallthatisevil. 'Howaretheybrought intodesolation,as inamoment!they are utterly, consumed with terrors.' 'One dies in his fullstrength, being wholly at ease and quiet.' 'Moreover, no manknowswhenhishourwillcome.Likefishinanetorbirdsinasnare,peopleareoftencaughtbysuddentragedy.'

Howlittledowethinkoftheshortnessoftimeandthenearnessof eternity. And how seldom do we take into seriousconsiderationtheweightyconcernswhicharesuspendedonthepresenthour.Ifwehadmorejustconceptionsofthevanityandbrevityofourlife,wewouldbemorediligentinattendingtoourspiritual concerns at the present time. Look again at theshortness and frailty of human life. Look at past generations.Where are they now? In the grave- the land of darkness andforgetfulness. How brief has been their existence! They havepassedawaylikethemorningcloudandearlydew.Lookatthepresent generation. How it vanishes! In a little while, every

living thing thatnowmoveson the faceof theearth,willhaveforeverdisappearedfromit.Lookforwardtofuturegenerations.Thesamegreatchangewilltakeplacewithregardtothem.All,all are marching to the grave and their places on earth shallknow them no more. Oh, that we might be induced by thesereflections to come to the SaviorNOW.Oh, thatwemight laythese things to heart. 'Oh, that they were wise, that theyunderstoodthis,thattheywouldconsidertheirlatterend.''Yourfathers,wherearethey?andtheprophets,dotheyliveforever.''Where are the men,' asked Chalmers, in one of his mostthrillingandsolemndiscourses-'Wherearethemenwhoafewyearsagogavemotionandactivitytothisbusytheater?Wherearethosefarmerswholivedonthegroundthatyounowoccupy?Where are those laboring poor who dwelt in your houses andvillages?Wherearethoseministerswhopreachedthelessonsofpiety, and talked of the vanity of this world?Where are thosepeoplewho, on the Sabbaths of other times, assembled at thesoundofthechurch-bell,andfilledthehouseinwhichyouarenow sitting? Their habitation is the cold grave, the land offorgetfulness.....Andwearethechildrenofthesefathers,andheirstothesameawfulandstupendousdestiny.Oursisoneofthemanygenerationswhopassinrapidsuccessionthroughthisregionoflifeandofsensibility.ThetimeinwhichIliveisbutasmall moment of this world's history. When we rise incontemplationofagesthatarepast,themomentarybeingofanindividualshrinksintonothing.Itistheflightofashadow;itisadreamofvanity;itistherapidglanceofameteor;itisaflowerwhicheverybreathofheavencanwither intodecay; it isa talewhichasaremembrancevanishes;it isadaywhichthesilenceofalongnightwilldarkenandovershadow.Ina fewyearsourheadswillbelaidinthecoldgrave,andthegreenturfwillcoverus.Thechildrenwhocomeafteruswilltreaduponourgraves;they will weep for us a few days; they will talk of us a fewmonths; theywill rememberus a few years; then ourmemoryshalldisappearfromthefaceoftheearth,andnotatongueshallbefoundtorecall it.Howperishableishumanlife,yetnomanlaysittoheart!'

Howshort is the spacebetweenusand thegrave!What isourlife? It is trulya vapor, thatappears fora little time, and thenvanishes away. What is time? It is a stream which is rapidlybearingusalltotheboundlessoceanofeternity.Inalittlewhileamighty angelwill standwith one foot upon the sea and oneupontheearth,andwithupliftedhandsswearbyHimthatlivesforeverandever,thattimeshallbenolonger.Letusaskagain,withallseriousness,WHATISTIME?

Iaskedanagedman,amanofcares,Wrinkled,andcurved,andwhitewithhoaryhairs;"Timeisthewarpoflife,"hesaid,"Ohtell,Theyoung,thefair,thegay,toweaveitwell!"Iaskedtheancient,venerabledead,Sageswhowrote,andwarriorswhobled;Fromthecoldgraveahollowmurmurflowed,"Timesowedtheseedwereapinthisabode!"Iaskedadyingsinner,beforethetideOflifehadlefthisveins-"Time!"hereplied;"I'velostit!ah,thetreasure!"andhedied.Iaskedthegoldensunandsilverspheres,Thosebrightchronometersofdaysandyears;Theyanswered,"Timeisbutameteorglare,"AndbadeusforEternityprepare.IaskedtheSeasons,intheirannualround,Whichbeautifyordesolatetheground;Andtheyreplied(nooraclemorewise),"Tisfolly'sblank,andwisdom'shighestprize!"Iaskedalostspirit,butoh,theshriekThatpiercedmysoul!IshudderwhileIspeak!Itcried,"aparticle!aspeck!amiteOfendlessyears,durationinfinite!"OfinanimatethingsmydialIConsulted,anditmademethisreply-"Timeistheseasonfairoflivingwell,Thepathofglory,orthepathofHell!"IaskedmyBibleanditsaid,

"Timeisthepresenthour,thepastisfled;Live!livetoday!tomorrowneveryetOnanylivingbeingroseorset!"IaskedOldFatherTimehimselfatlast;Butinamomentheflewswiftlypast-Hischariotwasacloud,theviewlesswindHisnoiselesssteeds;whichleftnotracebehind.Iaskedamightyangel,whoshallstandOnefootonsea,andoneonsolidland;"ByHeaven,"hecried,"Iswearthemystery'so'er;"Timewas,"hecried,"butTimeshallbenomore!"

WeshouldcometotheSaviornow,becauseisatthedoor.Andwhatiseternity-vast,boundlessETERNITY?Whocanproperlyspeak of it?Who can unfold the mighty import of this singleword, ETERNITY? No one. And let us remember that we arecandidatesforeternity-heirsofeverlastingblissorwoe!Oh,then,letusendeavortofeelthatwearewalkingontheveryborders of the eternalworld; and prepare, by comingtheSaviornow,forthatlandofsolemn,unchangingrealities-foraneternityofgloryinheaven.

LetuscometotheSaviornow,becausethesalvationofoursoulsisprecious,andtheirlossunspeakablygreat.Thepresenttimeiscalledthedayofsalvation;andthepassinghoursaregiventous,thatwemayattendtotheall-importantconcernsofourundyingsouls.Andhowsolemnthethoughtthat'everymomentthatGodgives toman, shall return at the appointed day, andmake itsreportofeverydeed,andwhisper,andthoughtbeforethejudgment throne!'The soul is ofdivineorigin, and it shall livethrough all eternity in supreme bliss; or inconceivablemisery.Howimportantthenisthesalvationofanimmortalspirit!Whocanproperlyestimatethevalueofasinglesoul?Itisworthinfinitelymorethanthewholeworld.'Forwhatshall itprofit aman,' asks theSaviorHimself; 'if he shall gainthewholeworldandlosehisownsoul?Orwhatshallamangiveinexchangeforhissoul?'Howdreadful,

beyond conception or description, for an immortal spirit to behastening to the pit of the lost, despising the merciful,invitationsoftheblessedRedeemer!Whocandescribethemiseriesofa lostsoul,whenthedoorofthebottomlesspithascloseduponitforever?InthethrillinglanguageofRobertHall,'Butwhat,mybrethren,ifitbelawfultoindulgesuchathought,whatwouldbethefuneralobsequiesofalostsoul?Whereshallwefindthetearsfittobeweptatsuchaspectacle?Orcouldwerealize the calamity in all its extent, what tokens ofcommiserationandconcernwouldbedeemedequaltotheoccasion?Woulditsufficeforthesuntoveilhis light,andthemoonherbrightness; tocover theoceanwithmourning,andtheheavenswithsackcloth; or, were the whole fabric of nature to becomeanimatedandvocal,woulditbepossibleforhertoutteragroantoo deep, or a cry too piercing, to express themagnitude andextentofsuchacatastrophe?'

Topreventsogreatalossasthatofthesoul,letuscometotheSaviornow,castourselvesatHisfootstool,andimploreHisrichmercy. Let us now listen to His entreating voice, and beholdHim knocking at the door of our hearts. Let us now open thedoor,andHewillcomein,andsupwithus. 'Behold,Istandatthedoor,andknock;Ifanymanhearsmyvoice,andopensthedoor,Iwillcomeintohim,andwillsupwithhim,andbewithme.' Then all things will be ours- all the blessings of theeverlastingcovenant- all the glories of heaven. Then,whenweare about to finish our earthly course- when we stand on thebanksofJordan,andseethecrownofgloryshiningforusinthepromised landbeyond the shoresof time,wemay sweetly andjoyfullysing-

'Myraceisover,theprizeiswon,Myeverlastingblissbegun,Andeveryevilgone.See,see,thetroopingangelscome,Upontheirwingstobearmehome,

SentfrommyFather'sthrone.IseethepalmthatIshallbear,Andcrownofglorymyheadshallwear,BoughtwithmySavior'sblood;WarmonmyheartIfeelthejoy,Whichevershallmyharpemploy;Iliveonangels'food.Mybreastinfireseraphicglows,IdrinkthestreamoflifethatflowsPurefromthethronedivine.MySavior'sfaceInowshallsee,Whodiedandroseagainforme,AndinHispresenceshine.Now,nowIshallforevershareTheplaceofrestHishandsprepare,Andjointhehymningband,Thatsing,whilekindlingraptureswellsEachbosom,endlessglorydwellsInourEmmanuel'sland.Comenow,attendingangels,come,Andwaftmetomypromisedhome;Haste,haste,theskiesexplore-Imount,Ifly,Iburstaway,Iminglewitheternalday,Andsinandweepnomore.'

Beforeclosingthisvolume,wewouldoncemoreearnestlyinviteyou, as you value the salvation of your soul, the favor ofGod,andthejoysofheaven,tocometotheSaviornow,andlearnofHimthepathtoglory.DailymeditatingonHisPersonandHisredeeming work, come to Him for those heavenly blessingswhichHealone can confer, andwhichwillmakeyoueternallyrich.MaytheHolySpiritbringthesetruthsbornetoyourheartwithdivineefficacy,constrainingyoutolovetheblessedSavior,toextoltherichesofHisgrace,andtolivetoHisgloryonearth,until inheavenyoushineasa star foreverandever.MayyourlanguagenowbethatoftheapostlePaul,'ForIdeterminednot

to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ and Himcrucified.' 'God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross ofourLordJesusChrist,bywhomtheworldiscrucifieduntome,and I unto theworld.' On life's dark and troubled ocean,mayJesusbeyourSTAR,toguideyousafelytotheportofheavenlypeace.Oh,whileHisvoiceofmercysoundsaloud, listen tohisgraciouswords, 'IamtheRootandtheOffspringofDavid,andthebrightMorningStar.TheSpiritandthebridesay,"Come!"Andlethimwhohearssay,"Come!"Whoeveristhirsty,lethimcome;andwhoeverwishes,lethimtakethefreegiftofthewateroflife.'

BlessedJesus,whileYouarewaitingtobegracious,maywebeenabledbyYourgracetocometoYou,thatourguiltysoulsmaybewashed in Your precious blood; that wemay be clothed inYour spotless righteousness, andprepared for themansions ofnever-endingbliss.Yououronlyhope,our trust,ourstay;andmayallourwell-springsbeinYou.MaywenowembraceYouasour divine Redeemer; and daily live on Your infinite fullness.Deeply interest us in the everlasting blessings of Youratonementandintercession;andmaywebenolongerinsensibletoYourwondrousloveasdisplayedintheworkofredemption.May Your love pervade our hearts, and bring us that peacewhich passes all understanding. May we daily search theScriptures, which testify of You, and be made wise untosalvation.

Maywenowattendtotheonethingneedful,rememberingthetimeisshort;thatthenightcomesinwhichnonecanwork;andthatthereisnosalvationinthegrave,onthevergeofwhichwestand. May our souls be weaned from the vanities of thistransitory world, and placed on the sublime, and holy, andunending joys of the saints' rest, in the upper Paradise. MayYour name and Your work be very precious to us in all ourwanderingsaspilgrimsofearth.MaythesincerestdesiresofoursoulsbetoknowmoreandmoreabouttheinfiniteexcellenceofYour Person, and themarvelousness of that grace, which You

havesoabundantlymanifestedtotheworldinYourdeathuponthecrossfortransgressors.Maythegreatmysteryofgodliness-Godmanifestedintheflesh-bethesubjectofourhighandholymeditationinthehouseofourpilgrimage,untildeathshallbearustothecourtsofthecelestialZion,whereweshallseeYoufaceto face,and learnthenewandeverlastingsongsof thegeneralassemblyandChurchofthefirst-born.

MaywenowlovetothinkofYouinYouroriginalglorywiththeFather,before the foundationof theworldwas laid,or the skyspreadout,whenYourdelightswerewiththesonsofmen.MaywedelighttocontemplatetheobjectofYourgloriousmissiontoearth,andtotraceYourblessedfootstepsthroughthisvalleyoftears, from themanger to the cross, and from the graveup toGod's right hand. May our hearts be cheered by the sweetthought of Your continual intercession for us in heaven; andmaywegreatly rejoicewhenwe look forward toYour gloriousappearing at the last day. Awaken us from our spiritualslumbers; and deeply impress on our minds the interesting,important,andsolemnlessonswhichthesesacredtruthsteach.May the bright beams of Your grace shine into our hearts,causingustobeholdYoursplendorastheSunofRighteousness,andtorejoiceinYoursalvation.

O blessed Savior,maywe be truly guided to You; enlightenedandsanctifiedbyYourgrace;andsafely carried in thearmsofYour love through all the agitated scenes of life to the land ofeternalrestbeyondtheswellingofJordan.IndeathmaywesingofYourlovingkindness,andYourpowertosaveoursouls;andwhenwepassthevalleyofmortality,ohmaywefindmansionsofglorypreparedforusinYourFather'shouse,whereYoushallfeedus,andleaduntolivingfountainsofwaters,andwipeawayalltearsfromoureyes.Oh,grant,thatinthoseblissfulrealmsofeverlastinglight,wherepeaceandrestforeverdwell,we,maybeamong that happy throng who shall encompass Your thronewith the songsof salvation; andbeholdwith rapturousdelightYourgloryasthatoftheonlybegottenoftheFather;astheglory

oftheStarofJacob-theBrightandMorningStar.

'Whenmarshaledonthenightlyplain,Theglitteringhostbestudthesky;OneStaralone,ofallthetrain,Canfixthesinner'swanderingeye.Hark!hark!toGodthechorusbreaks,Fromeveryhost,fromeverygem;ButonealonetheSaviorspeaks,ItistheStarofBethlehem.OnceontheragingseasIrode,Thestormwasloud,thenightwasdark,Theoceanyawned,andrudelyblowedThewindthattossedmyfounderingbark.Deephorrorthenmyvitalsfroze,Death-struck,Iceasedthetidetostem;WhensuddenlyaStararose,ItwastheStarofBethlehem.Itwasmyguide,mylight,myall,Itbademydarkforebodingscease;Andthroughthestormanddanger'sthrallItledmetotheportofpeace.

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