HE was only a pauper—so the world might say! Anyhow he felt his position so much that he asked whether the writer would object to his company in a railway carriage. At first I thought to say, "If you have your ticket, you have as much right here as I have," but presently I understood his meaning, having learned that he was returning to the work-house after a day's holiday.
So I took the opportunity of pointing out that in God's sight there was "no difference: for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." But before I could quote much more to him, he interrupted me as follows, "I'm no scholar, but I'm one of His sheep.”
I soon found that I was speaking to one who was practically answering to the word, “Rejoice in the Lord alway." He spoke of his daily task, but only to express his gratitude to the Lord, who gave him the needed strength to perform it.
The writer was truly cheered, both by the clearness of this confession of Christ, as well as by the evidence of the fruit of the Spirit. Also, one realized that precious truth, “Every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him."
How real a thing is Christianity! What else could have given such settled enjoyment of heart, in view of that which men look upon as a hard lot? The world is surprised at such a state of soul, and well it may be, for it knows nothing of the source of this blessedness. Some of my readers may, as yet, see little value in that confession, "I'm one of His sheep," but it spoke volumes to me. It came from one who had answered to the Shepherd's voice. He knew that his sins were all forgiven, for had not the Good Shepherd laid down His life in his stead? As for the present, he was provided for, and deeply enjoying the reality of knowing the Good Shepherd. The future was bright with the prospect of soon being at home with the One who had redeemed him at such a cost. With the latter thought on our minds we parted, probably never to meet again on earth.
Unsaved reader, this has a voice to you. In whatever way you may have tried the world you have found it to fail. You know that it will leave you without a hope in view of eternity. The believer can ever face the future with calm assurance, but you dare not think of it, for it can only speak of judgment to those who are yet in their sins. Beware then lest Satan rob your soul of real satisfaction whilst here, and of eternal bliss hereafter. Heed the gospel invitation, “Come; for all things are now ready."'
C. W.