“Whosoever shall lose his life for My sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it” (Mark 8:35).
Lord Jesus, this Thy twofold thought
Must surely twine around
Till in that love at length we bask,
Who in Thy path abound.
“For My sake and the gospel’s!” How
Remindful is the word
Which links love for the gospel now
With love for Thee, my Lord!
For great the sacrifice may be,
Yet Thy discerning eyes
Must see if it is made for Thee—
In this its value lies.
We would not love our Master’s work
More than our Master dear,
Nor would we try our cross to shirk
While following Thee here.
Loss, sufferings and labors sweet
The servant’s cross still make;
Borne still for Thee, our Object meet,
And for the gospel’s sake.
Lord, may we yield our all, we ask,
To Thee for all Thy love,
The hearts in which Thy grace has wrought,
At rest with Thee above.
S. J. B. Carter