Frank and Peter were hurrying through the fields toward their favorite stream. It was a school holiday, and they were going to make the best of the bright warm sunshine.
There had been a lot of rain, and this was the first sunny day for a long time. When at last they came to the stream, they found that it had risen a lot, and was rushing along much faster than usual. This only added to their delight, and they threw sticks in the water and hurried along the bank to watch their “boats” race with the current.
“Frank,” said Peter, “don’t go too near the edge. That water is pretty deep.”
“Don’t be afraid. The bank is good and solid.”
“But that rush of water might have washed away some of the earth, and the sod might give way and let you down.”
“Just you watch,” said Frank. And with a run and a jump he landed right on the edge of the bank—and disappeared! The sod gave way beath him and with a splash he was down in the rushing water.
It was a good thing that they had played there before, for Peter at once remembered a little foot-bridge that crossed the stream not too far down. Just as fast as his feet could carry him, he raced along the bank toward the bridge, bounded out into the middle and lay down on his stomach just in time to see Frank come splashing and struggling down with the current. With one hand holding the bridge, he made a quick grasp with the other and caught Frank by the collar.
“Hold me tight!” cried Frank.
I am sure you would not have wanted to be in poor Frank’s place. His rescue from the water depended altogether on what someone else could do for him. Unless you have taken the Lord Jesus as your own personal Saviour, your condition is even worse. You are rusng toward the punishment that your sins deserve. But Someone is ready, and willing, and able to save you. Yes, the Lord Jesus Christ is “long-suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish.” 2 Peter 3:99The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9).
With a great struggle, Peter was able to pull his friend out of the water, and safely to the shore. But it cost the Lord Jesus His own life to rescue me. Yes, He died for me. He bore the judgment of God for my sins, on the cross, and I know He will hold me tight, for He has said,
ML 10/17/1954