WE often hear stories of self-sacrifice, and of life endangered on the behalf of others, which touch the heart, and call forth a note of praise on the behalf of those who risk their own lives for that of their fellows.
The following story reminds us of the wonderful grace of Him, “who, though he was rich, yet for our sakes became poor, that we through his poverty might be rich.”
In the year 1796, during the month of January, a transport ship went ashore in Plymouth Sound, thereby endangering the lives of between five and six hundred precious souls.
The commander of His Majesty’s ship “Indefatigable,” on hearing of the disaster, ran down to the beach, and found that most of the officers had left their post of duty, and abandoned the ship. He urged them to return, and, in vain, offered pilot-men and others rewards if only they would board, the wreck, and seek to save some of the drowning men, but all refused, thinking the task too hazardous to be attempted. Seeing that none would go [ to the rescue, the brave commander said;
“I WILL GO MYSELF!”
There was but a single rope, with which the officers had come ashore, whereby communication with the ill-fated vessel could be made, but by means of this he was hauled through the surf on board. He at once assumed command, although he had received an injury in the back which kept him in bed for many weeks afterward. Through his promptness and energy he was instrumental in saving the lives of all on board, and faithful to his charge, he stayed there until all were safely of the doomed vessel, and a few minutes after he had left her she went to pieces.
We rightly admire the bravery of the gallant commander. But how shall we sing the praises of the Lord Jesus, who, beholding us in our lost condition, doomed to an everlasting hell, with no one to come to our rescue, laid aside His glory, stooped so low even to the death of the cross, enduring there its shame and agony, and undergoing the wrath of God against sin, that by the giving up of Himself He might save us from the wrath to come, and have us with Himself in glory. Upon the throne of God He now sits, His mighty work all done. And from that throne of glory the good news of salvation is sent to thee― “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”
“I gave My life for thee,
My precious blood I shed,
That thou might’st ransomed be
And rescued from the dead;
I gave My life for thee,
What hast thou given for Me?”
E.E.N.