It was a lovely summer's day. The sun shone brightly from a cloudless sky, and the waters reflected its rays as from a mirror. All around was peaceful, and many visitors were seated along the beach enjoying the light sea breeze and sunshine.
It being Saturday, many were expecting their friends to spend the weekend with them, and were wending their way to the railway station to met the midday train.
Among them was a bright young girl, who expected a very dear friend, and as the train steamed into the station she was not disappointed, as the one she was looking for, jumped out to greet her.
They walked away together to her home where dinner was being prepared for the traveler. It not being quite ready and the day so warm, he thought he would go and enjoy a bathe while waiting. All were agreeable, and promising to be back soon, the young man went to the beach, and having hired a boat, pulled out into the bay. He was seen by the boatman to undress and dive into the water, and being a good swimmer, enjoyed the water so much, that having got into the boat and begun to dress, he was tempted to take another swim. The boatman saw him jump into the water, but alas! (from what cause was never found out), that young man was never seen again.
Though boats went out, and every search was made, no trace of him was ever found. What a cloud of sorrow and mourning passed over that town that day, as the sad news became known. I remember it well, as I was staying there at the time.
What a time of sorrow for that young girl and his friends, waiting for the return of their loved one who never came back. But the question that came to my mind first was, Was that young man ready for that sudden call? I do not know. He little thought when he stepped into the boat that he would never get to the shore again. Full of life and energy, he little dreamed of death being so near.
That is why I ask you, Are you ready? O, but you say,
"I am strong.”
So was that young man I told you of. Death may find you unprepared to meet God. You do not know what an hour may bring forth.
We entreat you to come to the Lord Jesus Christ now and be saved by Him for eternity, and then if you are called to pass through death, you will immediately go to be with Him, but if you do not, when death comes to you, it will mean for you an eternity in Hell forever.