Little Georgy or Doi’ee as he called himself, was taken ill with scarlet fever when he was only four years old. He had it so very slightly, however, that he was one day allowed to be up and to play in the nursery.
He seemed happy, but rather restless first wanting some flowers; but when they were brought to him, he did not seem satisfied, and then asked if he might have on his little white summer coat.
This wish was also gratified, but still he was not at rest, and presently he asked a dear lady of whom he was, very fond to sing some hymns to him.
After she had sung several, the dear little fellow looked up into her face and said,
“Doi’ee is very ill, and getting worse.” This he repeated two or three times at intervals. So the doctor was sent for, but was detained until the evening, when it became evident that little Doi’ee was passing away.
His friend asked him if he loved Jesus.
“O yes!” he said; “Jesus loves me and died for me: Doi’ee do love Jesus.” When he saw his mother crying he said,
“Mamma, do not cry; Doi’ee going to be with Jesus.”
Soon after this, he pointed upwards with his little hand, and looked of steadfastly as if he saw the Lord, and so his spirit passed away, leaving a happy expression upon his dear little face.
I have told you this true story, dear children, because it shows you how quite a tiny child may have to die; and I do want you to notice that when this little boy was asked if he loved Jesus, he not only could say,
O yes!” but could also give the reason, because “Jesus loves me and died for me.”
Yes, dear children, had Jesus not loved us first, and died for us, none of us would ever have loved Him; and how happy it would he if every little child of four who hears this true story could give the same answer!
Then they would be ready either to die and go to Jesus, or to live down here to serve and please Him.
Will every little child of three, four or five learn these sweet words from the Bible,
“We love Him, because He first loved us,” (1 John 4:1919We love him, because he first loved us. (1 John 4:19)), and I do hope you will all love that precious Saviour, and know that He has died for you.
ML 08/25/1946