IT was on the seashore that a bright little boy was slowly walking along. All around merry children were at their play, making sand-castles, sailing ships, paddling or bathing. But a good many were gathering for a happy seaside service. Bright hymns, bright addresses, bright faces seemed to mark the meetings, and the boys and girls gladly came. An invitation was given to our young friend, and he was also asked if he was among those who were forgiven and saved and made happy by the Lord Jesus.
He was evidently interested, and answered earnestly,
"I hope to be before I die."
That reply showed that he had the idea of coming to Christ in order to be ready to die some little time before that dread event took place.
Like multitudes of children, and older people as well, he thought that that would be time enough. Of course, if it were the case, it would be important to come to Christ at once, for none of us know when we may die. Boys and girls, as well as men and women, are cut off. Indeed, it is said that half the people who are born die before they are twenty-five. So we all ought to be ready.
But to be a Christian is not to be ready to die only. It is when we are Christians that we begin to live. Then we can indeed enjoy a life worth living. Knowing that our sins are blotted out, knowing that God is our Father and loves us and cares for us, knowing that the Lord Jesus is living on high to help us and hold us up; knowing, too, that heaven is our home and that soon the Lord Jesus is coming for us—knowing these things gives a deep joy and peace that those who are not converted never can know.
Christ gives real, abiding happiness now. He brings heaven's sunshine into our souls now. Why should we wait for this blessedness until just before we die? Moses said,
We who have known the Lord as children, as growing boys and girls, as men and women, have beeen given joy and gladness all our days.
What He has done for us He will do for you. Come to Him now.
Messages of God’s Love 11/13/1932