Messages of God's Love: 1908

WHILE a gale was blowing during a rough night in October, the Cyprian sailed from the river Mersey. She was bound for Genoa and the Mediterranean ports.

On the night of the storm there was shipped on board an unhappy little stowaway. He had watched his opportunity and slipped on board when he could do so without attracting attention, and hid himself under a shelf in the forecastle, as far as he could judge, about two hours before the ship left the dock.

Some hours afterwards he was discovered by several of the sailors, but they did not take much notice of his presence.

A stowaway is generally the last on the ship to expect or to receive good treatment. He has no right to 'his passage or his food.

The Cyprian had scarcely cleared out of the river before the captain and all his crew must have regretted that they ever left Liverpool. At the time of starting a half gale was blowing, but in a few hours it increased to a hurricane.

The seas were so violent that they swept the deck clean, and the only spot that was in any way safe was the waist of the ship and the bridge.

But soon came the earliest of many disasters to the steamer. For hours the ship had been laboring with these tremendous seas which had been beating and battering against her sides; for hours there had been that hideous heaving and groaning; which seem like the wailing of a vessel in distress, when suddenly the steering gear in the fore wheel-house gave way.

Then one of the boiler tubes burst, and put out the fire adjoining it.

All was confusion and horror.

No one had time to think of the stowaway who had by this time crept out from his hole, and was in presence of his first storm at sea.

The Cyprian now fell off broadside to the waves for want of steering power, and roller after roller broke over the deck and into the engine eroom, extinguishing the last of the furnaces.

The seas were so powerful that men were washed like feathers from one end of the deck to the other, and when it was found that the unmanageable steamer, rudderless and without any means of navigation, was drifting towards the Carnarvon coast, the captain called all on board up to the bridge, and told them it was a case of "everyone for himself."

Gradually the doomed vessel was drifted upon the Welsh coast and struck the rocks.

Death stared every human being in the face, and each one prepared as best he could for his own personal safety. The life-belts were served round, or seized upon, and one of them fell, as was right, to the captain, who had done his utmost to save the ill-fated vessel.

By this time the Cyprian was drifting higher up in the frightful sea which raged along the shore.

The distress signal could not be recognized and no lifeboat could live in such a surf.

There were a couple of hundred people waiting on the beach, ready to save, but utterly powerless; and at last the steamer grounded fast on a rock, and opened from stem to stern.

One after the other, those who had belts, dropped over the vessel's side into the water. Two firemen alone stood paralyzed, and !ooked hopelessly at the sea, and, going down below, were never seen again.

What was the captain doing?

He had seen the rest of the crew take to the sea, and he stood ready to jump, with the life-belt about his waist.

At this moment he noticed amid the wild confusion, the pale, terror-stricken face of the neglected stowaway.

The lad had shipped for a fearful voyage, hiding in the doomed ship! Indeed he was a wretched creature, left alone on the sinking steamer!

But the good captain remembered he was a human being, to be saved if possible.

He unbuckled the life-belt, and handing it to the boy, bade him save himself, if it were the mercy of Providence that this should be so.

"I can swim," said the captain; "take the belt."

Over the side of the vessel went the stowaway, lifted upon the surf like a cork, and, with the good captain's belt about his waist, was flung upon the Welsh coast, battered about, but alive.

The captain, too, went over the side; but swimming was impossible in such a sea, and he went down, never to be seen alive again.

What a noble deed, you will say! What a kind, brave man the captain was! I hope the poor little stowaway thanked him.

Yes, he was a brave, kind man; and am sure everyone who reads the true story of this noble deed will admire the generous-hearted captain.

Many will praise his name (and justly too) who have never praised the Blessed One who died for them:

This story faintly shadows forth the love of One who laid aside the glory which He had with the Father, and who died for us poor sinners.

What was there in the little stowaway to commend him to the good captain?

Nothing. He deserved only punishment for having acted unlawfully.

But we hear of no word of blame.

We only hear that his deliverer gave up his best chance of life for the unworthy, helpless child at his side. And one could shed tears to think of his bravery and self-sacrifice.

Now, my dear children, pause a moment, and turn your eye to Calvary's cross.

There the Lord and Saviour offered Himself up, and bore the suffering and penalty poor sinners deserved. He unbarred the gates of heaven that we, who were once rebels and outcasts, might enjoy the mansions of the Father's house forever.

But what are the conditions?

That we put our confidence and our trust in our Deliverer.

Had the perishing boy refused the life-belt he must have perished.

If we refuse the salvation Christ offers we shall perish, and be engulfed in the dark waters of eternal death.

Our perfect, blessed Deliverer not only saves us, but makes us fit to dwell in His presence for ever.

When there was no eye to pity, His eye pitied. When there was no arm to save, His arm brought salvation, at the mighty cost of His own life's blood, while He bore our sins in His own body on the tree.

Have you ever thanked Him, dear children? Have you bowed before Him in wonder, love, and praise?

If not, do not delay.

Friendly voices may be cheering you on now, but they will cease; and if you reject Christ’s great salvation a dreary night of endless woe must be your lot.

Remember, He is not only our deliverer —for the captain might have lived and been the boy’s deliverer—but Christ is our substitute.

He came to die, and through His death the believer lives.

“Now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation.”

Messages of God’s Love 1/5/1908

Salvation in View

SOLEMN and serious must have been the hours the three men spent on the float they had managed to make from the floating pieces of the wreck.

Hope, no doubt, had been in their hearts that in some way they might be picked up, but they could not be sure of it. Despair would seem to take hold of them at times, and then again, when lifted to the top of some big wave, the appearance of a boat in the distance, would bring hope afresh again in their hearts. At last salvation is near them—the life boat is coming with its able rowers but still they are not in it; only, their hopes are brighter than they had been since they saw the wrecked ship go down.

But when the life boat and the float have come side by side, no time is wasted. The float is willingly given up, and the safe lifeboat is welcomed with its able rowers and the three men are carried safely to shore.

Are you, my dear reader, in a condition, as to the welfare of your immortal soul, like these three men—tossed about on the tempestuous waves of life, or may be on the smoother waters of youth, but with only a hope that you may land safely in heaven at the end? Ah, these men had clung fast to the float they had made, but they would soon learn that they could not reach the shore with it.

Are you hoping to reach heaven on something you have done? If so, you will never reach there, any more than these men could get to shore on the float. Salvation is come near to you, will you accept it as eagerly as those men did? It was only a life boat for them; it is Jesus, the Son of God for you, who gave His life that you might live. Death is your portion because of sin, but Jesus has died in the place of poor sinners and whoever will come to Him will be saved.

Give up all your own efforts to save yourself, and take Jesus as your own Saviour, just as these men gladly gave up their poor float and took the life-boat.

Then you will be able to say, “NOT BY WORKS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS WHICH WE HAVE DONE, BUT ACCORDING TO HIS MERCY HE SAVED US.” Titus 3:5.

One there is above all others,

Well deserves the name of Friend;

His is love beyond a mother’s,—

Costly, free, and knows no end!

Those who once His kindness prove,

Find it everlasting love.

Which of all our friends, to save us,

Could or would have shed his blood?

But our Saviour died to have us

Reconciled in Him to God.

This was boundless love indeed,

Jesus is a friend in need.

Messages of God’s Love 1/5/1908

Bethany

IT will perhaps be interesting to my young readers to hear a little something of the “holy land.” We desire to say a few things about Bethany, a village of which many of you have often heard and read.

It is about three quarters of an hour’s walk from Jerusalem, and its meaning is “house of dates,” no doubt on account of the abundance of date trees. At the present it is a village of about forty houses, inhabited by Arabs who gave it the name El Azarije, that is, village of Lazarus. Like all other places in Palestina, it bears marks of God’s curse or judgment, which came on the whole land on account of Israel’s sin. Perhaps the time is near at hand when God will remove the curse, and then will Bethany, too, blossom again and bear fruit. The Lord says: “Behold the days come ... .the mountains shall drop sweet wine, and all the hills shall melt. And I will bring again the captivity of my people Israel, and they shall build the waste cities, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and drink the wine thereof, they shall also make gardens, and eat the fruit of them.” Amos 9:13, 14.

There are few places in the holy land, if any, like Bethany where such sweet memories are connected with it, the Lord being there so often, and that, not, as we see Him in other places, as the great Teacher, but as a dear Guest. It was perhaps the only place where He found a home in this world, through which He journeyed as a stranger. Of foxes and birds He could ‘say that they had holes and nests, but Himself had not where to lay His head. He was without home. How sweet then must it have been for His heart to ever find so warm a welcome in the little circle of Martha, Mary and Lazarus. He will certainly reward them richly for it, He who will not leave unnoticed a cup of cool water.

Toward the end of His earthly pilgrimage He often went to Bethany from Jerusalem to stay over night. Mark 11:11-12; Matt. 21:17.

Nazareth rejected Him. We read: “And they rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built that they might cast him down headlong.” Luke 4:29. Capernaum, the beloved city, where He taught so oft, and did so many miracles, refused His word. Jerusalem cried: “Crucify, crucify Him!” But in Bethany He found not only shelter and hospitality, but warm hearts for His word and for His love. You see, my dear young reader, though you cannot receive the Lord Jesus in your earthly homes as a guest, you can give Him an abiding place in your hearts. Have you done so? Is He reigning in your heart without a rival? Truly happy is every heart that sits at Jesus’ feet to be taught by Him. That is the “one thing needful.” Of Mary it could be said: “She has chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”

Precious portion for every soul, which finds its every joy in Him and keeps His word. In Luke 10, we read of Mary’s having chosen that “good part;” in Matt. 26 we hear of her “good work,” in that she anointed the Lord for His burial.

The “good part” was for Mary, the “good work” for the Lord.

Bethany reminds us also of the precious sympathy of the Lord in this world. At the grave of Lazarus, where He showed Himself as the resurrection, His sorrow over what sin had done, and all the misery it had brought into this world, was so great that He groaned once and again, and shed tears. How precious this is, for every soul in distress, in pain and in sorrow, who can say: The Lord knows all about my sorrow, He is full of sympathy and mercy.

“Touched with a sympathy within

He knows our feeble frame:

He knows what sorest trials mean,

For He has felt the same.”

Another time He wept as He came from Bethany and was going down the Mount of Olives, looking down on Jerusalem, over which the judgment was soon to break. Luke 19:41. That beloved city did not know the day of her visitation.

My dear young reader, may you be spared from causing such sorrow to the Lord as that city did, which hardened itself against His love. In warning words He says to you: “Today, if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.”

Then, it was from Bethany the Lord left to go to heaven. Luke 24:50. “And He led them out as far as to Bethany, and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. And it came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.” And when He comes again to save Israel and 1.o bless them, “His feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives,” Zach. 14:4. The inhabitants of the Land in that day will welcome Him gladly in, their hearts and will say: This is the day which the Lord’ hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it! “Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord!”

Messages of God’s Love 1/12/1908

Yet, Jesus Can Save Me

THE English general Havelock (who died in 1857) well known as a brave soldier, was also a Christian. Often would he take his little son into his arms to tell him of the Lord Jesus. One day he said to the little fellow: “Would my little boy like to go to heaven?” “Yes, papa.” “But how can you go there where that holy God is; your little heart is full of sin!” “But all are sinners, papa.” “Very true,” said the father, “but only those who are of pure heart shall see Him. You have no pure heart; how about it?” The little fellow became very sad; One could read the sorrow on his face. He pillowed his head on his father’s breast and burst into tears, then said. “Papa, yet, Jesus can save me!” He had confidence in the Saviour, he had often heard how His blood cleanses from all sin, and though he was very young, yet practically he knew what appropriation meant, he sought and found shelter in Jesus the blessed Son of God.

Have you done this yet, my dear young friend? Have you ever seen that your heart is full of sin and you cannot go to heaven with it thus? Come now, let yourself be washed in the blood of Jesus; confess to Him your sins. You have told many a lie, have you not? You have taken things which did not belong to yon, and many wrong things you have done. Those are sins. Bring them to Jesus, tell Him all, keep nothing back. He said: “Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out!” Have Him first as your Saviour, then as your Guide and Shepherd, who will lead you in the right way for His Name’s sake.

Messages of God’s Love 1/12/1908

The Power of the Word of God

WHO is the man in that last bed?” So asked a gentleman of the head nurse in one of Hamburg hospitals. He came, as was his custom, with his little daughter to visit the sick, and speak to them of Jesus.

“He is a French sailor, who, a few days ago met with a serious accident,” replied the nurse kindly. “He was brought here, but does not understand one word in German. His ship has already left port, and now there is no one to look after him; I cannot speak French. Cannot your daughter speak to him a little? I am sure it would do him good.”

The gentleman looked on his little daughter and asked: “Would you try, Anna, to say a few words to him?”

“But papa,” said the girl shyly, “I know so little French; how could I enter into conversation with a strange man; what could I say to him?”

Anna stood undecided for a few moments, then whispered to her father, “Shall I quote to him that verse I learned from my French Bible?”

“Just the thing, my child,” answered her papa, rejoiced.

Every eye was on the slender little girl, as she walked through the long room to the bed of the sick sailor, her own heart beating fast and loud as she looked on him, lying there with eyes closed, and the color of death on his haggard face; perhaps he was dead already. But no, he opens his tired eyes, and looks in astonishment on the little visitor.

The little maid gathered up courage and in the best of French she could, said:

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Then she returned to her father.

The sick man had understood every word very well. They made a deep impression on him. He must have heard them some time, but he could not remember when or where. He was too weak to think much, and soon his eye closed again, this time in a sound and healthy sleep. But even in his sleep he would dream of the words he heard. When he awoke again it was only to think of that verse quoted by the little girl; who could she be, who could have sent her?

Thus several days and nights passed. His condition physically was much improved, and along with his bodily strength came back also his memory. He remembered that those words he had heard were from the Bible, and that he had heard them often in his youth. But among those words the little girl had said, was one word which gave him quite a little uneasiness. It was the word “perish.” What if he should have to appear before God now?

One day his eye fell on a book on the chair close by his bed. He begged the nurse to give it to him. It was a French Bible some kind visitor had left there for him. Now, he had something to do, and as soon as he was strong enough, he would read. He read of the love of God that sent Jesus into the world to die for lost sinners, and thus provided eternal salvation, eternal redemption for all who accept Him as their Saviour. He read still further how the Lord Jesus Himself invited sinners to come to Him, and finally he read how God beseeches sinners to be reconciled to Him. It broke his heart. He could not resist such love any longer. He turned to God and found peace and the forgiveness of sins by faith in the shed blood of Jesus Christ.

Soon after this he was restored lo health and strength and was permitted to leave the hospital. But the little girl, to whom he was so deeply indebted, he never saw again.

Thus the Spirit of God uses one and another to speak a word in season, to awaken sinners from their dead-like sleep, troubles them about their sins, only to pardon them if they are sorrowing about them. “HE LOOKETH UPON MEN, AND IF ANY SAY, I HAVE SINNED AND PERVERTETH THAT WHICH WAS RIGHT, AND IT PROFITED ME NOT, HE WILL DELIVER HIS SOUL FROM GOING INTO THE PIT, AND HIS LIFE SHALL SEE THE LIGHT.” Job. 33:27-28.

Messages of God’s Love 1/12/1908

Talks With the Tiny Ones

MY dear little children, did you ever think as you use your active little feet and hands, or your bright eyes, or ready tongue, how you came to be so wonderfully made? Who made you? I think I hear you answering, “God made me.” Yes, He did indeed, and of what did He Make your soft flesh, and strong bones; the hair which covers your head, and the blood which runs through your veins? Does it seem strange to think—He made it all of dust? Could any man do that? Oh, no, only God; but how great and how wonderful He is. How different from the strongest or biggest or wisest man in the world. He is called the Creator. Can you remember that hard word? I will tell you what it means. A Creator is one who makes things out of nothing, and only God can do that. Men can make very strange things, but then they cannot make them of nothing. If a house is to be built, we see bricks, and mortar, wood, and nails, and many other things brought to the spot where the men are working, but when God made the world, He only had to speak and it was done. The Bible says, “By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth; For He snake and it was done.” Psa. 33:6, 9. Now, God did not only make the great big world, with its mountains and valleys, its oceans, and lakes, its tall trees, and tiny flowers, but He made you, and how wonderfully He did it. Did you ever think of how kind it was of God to give you eyes to see with, and ears to hear with, a tongue for talking, feet to run about on, hands to use for working or playing, and so many other things. I could not name them all. Yes, it was the great and good God who made all these, and not only did He make you, but He takes care of you all through the bright, busy day, and all through the dark, silent night, and best of all, He loves you so well, that He has provided a way by which you can come and live with Him forever, for “God so loved the world, (and that takes in you, little child) that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

Messages of God’s Love 1/12/1908

Contentment

SEE this little fellow sitting in that clothes basket. His mother has put him there while she is doing some work nearby; of course she is net very far off, for Baby might fall over and hurt himself, or get into some other mischief. He is content, too, because his mother has put him there. Those who love us truly, always wish for our good. And now if his mother is a Christian woman, she will do still more for her little boy than to watch over him, that no bodily harm can come to him. She will watch over his soul; she will early bring him to Jesus, like some mothers did in Judea and Galilee; only SHE will bring him to the Lord Jesus in prayer, and as soon as he is old enough to understand, she will make him acquainted with the One who said, “Suffer little children to come unto Me and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” How blest are children who have Christian parents; parents who fear the Lord, who not merely say prayers, but who pray. Yes, how blest are such children who grow up in such an atmosphere—the word of God and prayer. Think what it is for one to have to say, “I have never heard a prayer in my parents’ home; I have never heard the joyful note of praise, or the word of God was never read in my hearing; I was never pointed to Jesus as a Saviour, loving and tender.” But many have learned to know the Lord Jesus after they left their father’s house; someone else pointed them to the Saviour and Lover of their souls.

Children, do not put off giving your heart to the Lord Jesus; the longer you wait, the harder will your heart get, moreover many of you know already that God’s time is “Now,” and that you have no promise for tomorrow.

“TODAY, IF YE WILL HEAR HIS VOICE, HARDEN NOT YOUR HEARTS.” Heb. 3:15.

“Thousands have fled to His spear-pierced side,

Welcome they all have been, none are denied;

Weary and laden, they all have been blest,

joyfully now in the Saviour they rest.”

Messages of God’s Love 1/19/1908

The Arran Chieftains

AMID a grove of tall trees on the hillside overlooking the Bay of Lamlash, in the Isle of Arran, stands the roofless chapel of Kilbride, around which the graves of ten generations lie. Ancient sculptured stones, bearing strange devices, and names of the great of five centuries ago, stand crumbling around the ruined shrine. Concerning a strange stone, on which is the full figure of a kilted Highlander with sword by his side, the following story is told. Two petty chieftains, Walter the fair-haired, and Duncan the dark, were bosom friends and inseparable companions. A jealous chief who feared them both, swore he would alienate their friendship into mortal hatred. First he got Walter’s ear and told him that the friend whom he trusted was secretly aspersing his character, and only waited a chance to take his life. The same day he told Duncan the same villainous story, which was also implicitly believed. Next morning the two chieftains met on the Lamlash shore, and without a word, drawing their swords, closed in a fierce conflict for revenge. Walter the fair-haired was slain, and Duncan, mortally wounded, fell by his companion’s side, to learn how both had been deceived by a common enemy. With his last breath he requested that both might be buried in the same grave, and that rugged sculptured stone marks the spot where they lie. Whether fact or legend, the story aptly illustrates how Satan, the enemy of God and man, succeeded in bringing in that which caused estrangement, and broke the bond which existed between God the great Creator, and man the companion of his God in Eden days. Believing the serpent’s lie, man was estranged by sin from God, and is now by nature and practice His enemy. His very heart and mind are “enmity against God” (Rom. 8:8), and his thoughts are all against Him for evil. But here the similitude ends. No days-man or reconciler interposed between the Arran chiefs, no friendly voice exposed the enemy’s work, or sought to undo it. But blessed be God, in the case of the sinner this has been done. The offended God has become the Reconciler. He it was who said, “Deliver from going down to the pit, I have found a Ransom” (Job 33:24), and “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son” (John 3:16), “Who gave Himself a ransom for all (1 Tim. 2:6); and now Himself comes forth to men with the message, “Be ye reconciled to God”. (2 Cor. 5:20). Some believe the message and become “reconciled to God by the death of his Son” (Rom. 5:10), others despise the grace and continue in enmity against God., and pass on to judgment to find how cruelly they have been misled by that great arch-enemy who “deceiveth the whole world.”

Almost within sight of that nameless grave of Lilbride, a company of sinners saved by grace, reconciled to God, and now seeking to win others to Him, stand on Lamlash shore singing—

“Happy day, happy day,

When Jesus washed my sins away.” Then they tell, one after another, how, though once enemies of God, they were saved by means of “the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,” brought from the place of enemies to that of sons, and how the same grace awaits to save others. There is no middle, no neutral place. You are at this moment either, an enemy of God, estranged and ready to perish, or a reconciled and justified sinner, restored to God and brought nigh by the blood of Christ.

Messages of God’s Love 1/19/1908

Who Is to Take the First Step

JOHN Wesley, the much honored servant of the Lord, had a servant whose name was John, and who was converted through Mr. Wesley’s instrumentality, and also who was much attached to his master. But John was not always able to overcome his natural stubbornness.

Once he was told by Mr. Wesley to take a letter to a certain party and do it at once. But John replied that he would go to meeting first and hear Mr. Wesley preach; the letter, he thought could very well wait till next day. Mr. Wesley repeated the command that the letter must be delivered at once, but John still would differ with his master, so that Mr. Wesley finally said: “If you would be my servant, your first duty is to obey me, even if you should miss the meeting. You know the word of God says, ‘To obey is better than sacrifice;’ besides I have told you that I was in a hurry with the letter. If you refuse to obey me in this case, you cannot be my servant any longer, and we have to part company. Do you understand?”

“Yes sir; but I think that letter can easily wait till tomorrow.” So John remained to the meeting, sure enough, and since his master did not address him anymore he maintained stubborn silence.

The following morning John pushed the breakfast silently before Mr. Wesley, when the latter said: “John, have you thought over and considered what I said yesterday, that our ways must part from this on?”

“Yes, sir.”

“And must we really part after so many years?”

“Just as you say sir.”

“And will you not apologize for your behavior of yesterday?”

“No sir.”

“Very well, John,” said Mr. Wesley and rising from his chair he approached John with outstretched hand, “then I ask you to forgive me, for in my desire to have the letter off in good time to its destination, I may have spoken too hasty and too sharp.” Upon this, tears burst out of John’s eyes; his stubborn will was broken, and as he grasped the hand of his kind master, he covered it with kisses.

Does not this incident speak to some of my old and young readers?

Messages of God’s Love 1/19/1908

The Poor Fisherman

THERE was once a poor fisherman whose wife had gone to heaven, and left him with several children, whom he had to take care of all alone. One winter the weather had been so bad for a long time, that he could not go out fishing, and at last all his money was gone, and the bread too, so that there was nothing in the house, either for him or the little ones.

The poor children were crying for food. and the father did not know what to do. But he was one of those who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and he knew that Jesus loved him, and had given Himself for him. So, remembering that the Lord had said “Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do,” he knelt down, and told the Lord his great trouble, and asked Him to provide bread, for the hungry little ones. Then, wishing to assure his little girl, and make her forget her hunger, he put her on his shoulder, and carried her down to the village. Just then a pie-man went by, with some nice pies in a tray on his head, and the poor little girl stretched out her hand to take one, but her father with a sad heart, said she could not have one, for he had no money to pay for it. How it must have pained him to refuse his hungry child; and to add to his pain, she began, to cry so bitterly, that he was obliged to take her home again. Throwing off his coat, as he came into the house, he was astonished to see a shilling fly out of the pocket, and roll upon the floor. Then he remembered that just at the moment when his little child was crying for the pies, and he was obliged to say he had no money to buy any, a woman pushed against him, and, as he now saw, must have thrust that shilling into his pocket to help him out of his great trouble. You may depend upon it, he soon had his coat on again, and ran out to buy some food, and thus he and they were delivered in a way he never would have expected.

His walk down the village street, the passing of the pieman, the cry of the little child, the instant compassion of the stranger, all were arranged by Him, who said, “Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do.” Would not this teach him something more than he ever knew before of the pity of the Lord Jesus, show He feels for and with His people in their sorrows?

Messages of God’s Love 1/19/1908

Talks With the Tiny Ones

Part 2.

We were talking last week about the wonderful body God has given to each little child, but that is not all He has given you. The dog and the pussy cat have bodies, and they can run about faster than you can, and they can see and hear and feel, too. Now, what is the difference between you and the pretty purring pussy? Well, first of all God has made you able to understand about Himself. If I were to talk to the dog, or the cat about heaven or the Bible, would they understand? Why no! they would hear the sound of my voice, but it would have no meaning to them. Now, you can understand, for God has given you a soul, a never dying soul. A long, long time ago, God made the first man, and when He had made him, “He breathed into his nostrils, the breath of life, and man became a living soul.” Ts that hard to understand? It means that God put into the man, a spirit, a something which can never die, the body may die, but the soul, or spirit, will not die. You cannot see it, or feel it with your hands, but it is there just the same, and when the body dies, the soul still goes on living. Does it go into the grave, oh no! it leaves the body, and goes away, away. But where does it go? That is the most important thing. You have often heard of the two places; to one of which it must go. One is heaven, a beautiful home, where God is, and the Lord Jesus Christ. It is full of joy and love and praises of God. No one is ever sick or in pain there; no one is ever hungry or thirsty or tired; and no one is ever naughty.

The other place is oh! so different; it is always dark, and full of pain and suffering and sorrow and instead of the Lord Jesus, the devil is there. But God loves little children and grown up people, too well, to wish them to go to such a place. He wants to have them in heaven with Himself, and for this reason He sent His only Son into the world to become a man and to be punished for the naughty things men and women and children have done, and if you believe that the Lord Jesus has been punished for your sins, God will not punish you too, but will take you to ire with Himself in His happy home. God commendeth His love toward us in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Messages of God’s Love 1/19/1908

A Tomb in Hanover

THE wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.” 1 Cor. 3:19.

There was many years ago, in Germany. a countess who refused to believe that there is a God, or a resurrection, or a judgment to come. She was so anxious to show her unbelief that she caused to be prepared an extremely strong tomb, made of massive blocks of hard stone, joined together with great pieces of iron. Man’s utmost power was put forth to render it impossible to open this tomb when it should once be properly closed. On the heavy slab which formed the lid, or cover, were engraved the following words: “This burial place, purchased to all eternity, must never be opened.”

But “the weakness of God is stronger than man.” What could be weaker than a tiny seed decaying in the soil?

Well, the countess died, and was buried in her tomb, and such a seed found its way in with the moulds. Soon it sent out a tiny shoot, which by degrees, forced its way between the side stone and the upper slab. Slowly but steadily it grew larger and larger. until at length the iron fastenings were burst asunder, and the heavy lid was uplifted. And today, that countess’ grave may be seen, with its massive cover and side-stones resting against the trunk of the tall tree which grows up from the midst of the open tomb!

“THERE SHALL BE A RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD, BOTH OF THE JUST AND UNJUST.” Acts 24:15.

Messages of God’s Love 1/26/1908

The Only Refuge

AS I was walking down one of the dusty roads the other day, I saw a flock of sheep coming along, and behind them was a great dog; of course it barked at, and worried them, as shepherd’s dogs generally do.

But one poor lamb had strayed a little out of the way, and the men wanted to bring it back, so they spoke to the dog, and off he ran after it.

Now, the poor thing was so frightened to hear the dog at its heels, and so afraid that it would get bitten, that it ran as fast as ever it could, bounded behind a ladder, and seeing a little cottage door standing open, rushed in for safety. Then the poor lamb felt so secure that it turned round and faced the great dog, which stood outside and dared not enter. The dog looked quite surprised for a minute or two at what the lamb had done, and then trotted off and left if alone.

This took place one Sunday, and as I walked along I thought of some children whom I was going to teach that afternoon, and that some of them were very much like that lamb, for this world is full of danger for little children, unless they fly to a place of safety.

There is someone who “goes about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour,” and you have heard how lions prowl about it at night, and spring upon their prey when the poor little animals think all is safe.

This one is Satan, and he follows people just as the dog hunted the lamb.

Now the best thing you can do is to run to a safe place, and then he cannot touch you, but there is only one really safe place to hide, and that is in the arms of the Lord Jesus. He loves you, He knows that Satan wants to get you forever, so He throws open His loving arms and invites you to come to Him; and just as the door of the little cottage stood open, and the lamb sprang in and was safe, so Jesus, who is called the Door, stands ready to receive you.

Go to Him just as you are, for He invites sinners, and I know you are one. He will shelter you, and keep you from harm.

There is another little story I must tell you.

Once upon a time a gentleman was walking along, when suddenly, he saw, hovering in the air, a great bird. After looking at it for a minute, he saw that it was a hawk. Now, a hawk feeds upon little birds. It flies up high in the air, and there watches till it sees a sparrow or sonic other small bird, which it can pounce upon, and carry away to kill and eat.

Presently, as the gentleman was still looking, a sparrow flew straight towards him, and hid itself under his coat next his heart. Poor thing its heart was beating, and it trembled all over, whilst just above flew the great hawk.

The sparrow had seen the fierce bird, and knew that it wanted to pounce down and carry it off, so the little thing looked round for some safe place, and then flew under the gentleman’s coat.

Did he turn it away, do you think? Did he throw it to the hawk?

No, he took it gently in his hand, held it till all danger was passed; and then he carried it home, and let it fly in his own garden.

This you see, is the same kind of story as the other, and I want to show you that, like the little bird, you are in danger too. Oh! if for one moment you could really know what dreadful danger you are in (unless you are under the care and protection of Jesus), I think you would be very frightened.

Danger is around you, and any moment you may die and be lost forever; then you must be in Satan’s power, that wicked one who tries to prevent you from flying to the safe place.

But I want you to fly to the Saviour. If you go to Him He will not drive you away, but will keep you safely till danger is past, and then will take you to a glorious home which He is getting ready for those who love and trust Him. But how is it that He can receive poor little sinful children, for He is holy and good?

I will tell you.

He looked down from His beautiful home and saw the danger you were in, and He pitied and He loved you, so He came down here and died to put away your sin. He shed His blood to wash you clean from all the naughty things you have done; only you must believe it, and love and trust Him about it, and then it will be your delight, after you have fled from Satan to Jesus, to tell others about Him, and to try and please Him by keeping His word.

Many thousands of little children are now with Jesus, but they have no longer sinful hearts; they are washed white the Saviour’s blood, and He will cleanse you now if you go to Him.

He can hear you, though you cannot hear Him; He can see you, though you cannot see Him; and He promises in His Word to give you everlasting life if you trust in what He did for you.

I am sure you could not bear the thought of being shut out from heaven, and having to dwell in darkness and pain; but such must be your lot if you will not obey the voice of Jesus. Little ones who trust Him can say—

“Jesus, bless Thy little lamb,

Weak and foolish as I am;

Bear me in Thy mighty arm,

Safe from every fear and harm.

“Thou did’st call me to Thy side,

Trembling in the desert wide;

Bid me all my bleatings cease,

Hushed my fears and gave me peace.

“Call me nearer when I cry;

Let me in Thy bosom lie;

Turn these wandering eyes, I pray,

From teach vanity away.

“Lord, Thou art my Shepherd kind.

All I need in Thee I find;

But I fear my foolish heart,

Lest it should from Thee depart.

“And whene’er in folly’s way,

Thy poor lamb begins to stray,

By Thy dying love and pain,

Turn me, Lord, to Thee again.”

Messages of God’s Love 1/26/1908

Little Mary's Two Bibles

PERHAPS you are wondering how little Mary came to have two Bibles, and what she did with them. Well, I must tell you all about it.

Mary was born in that far-away country you have often heard of, India. Now I daresay you know that on account of the great heat. few English children can live in that country, and so they have to be sent away from their fathers and mothers when not more than 6 years old, and taken up to a cooler climate. And so it was that Mar, was sent to England to live with her grandmother, and her parents remained in India. The little girl had a good and kind grandmother. She not only took great care of her body, but she also tried to teach her about the Lord Jesus, and all He has done for us. She often told her too, of the little heathen children far away over the seas, who knew nothing about Jesus, and bowed down to images of wood and stone. One day, Mary received a nice long letter from her father, with some money in it.

“You will soon have a birthday, my darling,” he wrote, “and will be seven years old. Grandmama tells me, you are beginning to read quite nicely, so I am sending this money to buy you a Bible.”

Mary danced up and down and exclaimed, “Just what I wanted so much. O, Grandmama! when shall we go and buy it?”

“We will go tomorrow,” said Grandmama, “and father has sent enough money to buy you a very handsome Bible.”

Mary was quite willing to go early to bed so that tomorrow might come quickly, and with it, the pleasure of going shopping, to buy the beautiful Bible. She lay awake for awhile, wondering whether a blue or red or a green cover would be prettiest, and whether. the leaves would have gilt edges. But as Mary was dressing the next morning, a new thought came to her.

“After all,” she said to herself, “it is not the cover that matters so much but the beautiful stories about Jesus, inside. I can read them just as well if the cover is not so fine, and then if the money papa, sent is enough, perhaps I could buy two Bibles, and send one to a little heathen girl in India.”

As soon as she came down stairs, her first question was, “Grandmama, would the money papa sent buy two Bibles?”

“Yes,” said Grandmama, “there’s plenty to buy two Bibles, with nice print, and strong covers, but why do you want two Bibles, my child?”

“Because,” replied the little girl, “I want one for myself, and one to send to a little girl in India, just my age, so that she may learn about Jesus, too.”

So when the old lady and the child, went to the book store, they bought two nice strong Bibles. They had not gilt edges and handsome covers, but as Mary said, “The inside was just the same.”

Did you ever think what a wonderful book the Bible is, and how different from every other book? All other books were written by men, and tell us what men did, or thought. But the Bible is God’s book, and tells us what He has done, and what He thinks; and His thoughts are very different from ours. Did you ever carefully read in your Bible to find out what God says, and what He thinks about things?

Well, when Mary got home, her name was put in one Bible, and the other was packed up and sent out to India, with directions to give it to a little girl seven. years old, and to write in it, the child’ name, and who it was from. Mary did not forget the Bibles. She read in hers, and daily learned from its pages, more about the Lord Jesus, and all he had done for her. She read of His great love to her, and she learned to love Him in return, for we read, “We love Him, because He first loved us,” and each day she prayed for her unknown friend over the sea, that she, too, might learn to love Jesus. Years passed on; the little girl grew into a young woman, but as she grew older, she longed more and more for the salvation of the poor heathen women and children, and at last she went out to India for the purpose of teaching them. Not long after her arrival she was introduced to a young woman, a native of the country, but not a heathen—instead, Mary found her a bright, happy Christian.

“How did you learn to know about Jesus?” she enquired, and her new friend produced a Bible.

“I was sent this book, as a child,” she said, “and from it I learned to know that Jesus died for my sins.”

And, now, children, can you guess whose name Mary found in the beginning of that well-worn Bible? Yes, indeed, it was her own name, and I am sure von will not wonder, when I tell you that she thanked God many times for having thus answered the prayer of a little girl and brought a poor sinner to know the Saviour;

“Cast thy bread upon the waters; for thou shalt find it after many days.” Eccles 11:1.

Messages of God’s Love 1/26/1908

Bible Questions for February

Answers to Bible Questions for December

“Watch therefore,” etc. Matt. 25:13.

“Heaven and earth shall,” etc. 24:35

“Blessed is He that,” etc. “ 21:9.

“Go ye therefore,” etc. “ 28:19.

“Honor thy father and,” etc. “ 19:19.

“This is My beloved Son,” etc.“ 17:5.

“Thou are the Christ,” etc. “ 16:16.

Bible Questions for February

Answers to be found in Mark from chapter 9 to end.

Give the words after these, “So then after the Lord had spoken unto them.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Even,” “Midnight,” “Cock-crowing,” “Morning.”

Give the verse in which these words are found, “Tarry ye here, and watch.”

What did the voice that came out of the cloud say?

Write the verse containing these words, “He was much displeased.”

Give the verse containing these words, “Rising of the sun.”

Write the verse in which these words are found, “The servants did strike Him with the palms of their hands.”

Messages of God’s Love 2/2/1908

Bethlehem

WE would tell you this time a. little something about another little town from the holy land, it is Bethlehem, the meaning of which is “of bread.” In early time it used to be called Ephrath, which means fruitful. Both names signify how blessed and fruitful its fertile fields must have been; and to this day Bethlehem is considered to be of the best, most fruitful district in Palestine. The town is about four or five miles from Jerusalem, upon a rocky elevation surrounded by orchards and vineyards. Its population, of about 6 or 7000, is mostly nominal Christians, almost all belong to the Greek Catholic and the Armenian churches. There is a small evangelical congregation there, numbering about 50 souls.

Bethlehem’s history reaches way back unto the patriarchs, and accordingly would be about 3,500 years old.

The first time it is ever mentioned is in Genesis, and that at the birth of Jacob’s youngest son Benjamin, whose mother Rachel died after his birth and was buried here.

In the time of the judges, when God’s beloved people wandered so often in bad and forbidden ways, the lovely incident of Ruth took place.

She was a young Moabitish widow, a heathen, who through the Jew Elimelech had learned of the living God. Elimelech, in time of famine, had gone to Moab and while there, his son had married Ruth. But Elimelech and his son, Ruth’s husband, both died, and Ruth with her mother-in-law, whose name was Naomi, left Moab to go to the holy land. Ruth loved Naomi, but she loved the living God more. Thus the two widows arrived at Bethlehem, and there Ruth was to taste in full measure the grace and goodness of Israel’s God. She became not only the wife of the pious and wealthy Boaz, but you can find her name also in the New Testament in our Lord’s genealogy. (See Matt. 1:5.) How rich was she rewarded for her faith in Israel’s God! “For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed.” And again in another scripture: “He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” Yes, surely, “godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.”

Many things out of David’s life take us back to Bethlehem, yea, it is called the “city of David,” for here David, Israel’s great king, was born. As a shepherd boy he ha I gone over the rich pastures around the city, playing his harp; here also he killed the lion and the bear, in faith, as well as proved in many ways, God’s faithfulness.

The most precious incident of all which happened at Bethlehem was the birth of our Saviour. The prophet Micah had, about 700 years before it took pointed out this lovely spot as the Lord Jesus’ birth place, Micah 5:2. What precious, wondrous grace! God’s well-beloved Son come down from yonder glory, and as a child lies in Bethlehem’s manger; and over the pastures, where the Godfearing shepherds are watching their flocks, sounds the glad tidings of the angel: “Fear not, for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord!”

As often as you hear the name Bethlehem you may think of the glad tidings and rejoice. But true and lasting joy you can only have if that Saviour has come into your heart to abide. In Bethlehem, the Lord found no room in the inn; has He found any room in your heart, my little reader? He has room for you up there, for He says, “Yet there is room.” How happy for yourself and others, and what joy it would give the Lord Jesus, if you were to receive God’s word and believe it, that you like those shepherds, might praise Him and bear witness of Him. Of them we read: “An.1 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all thethings they had heard and seen.”

Not long after the birth of the Lord, noble guests came to Bethlehem, they were three wise men from the east, come to worship the child Jesus. They were wise, were they not? Yes, indeed all are that, who truly seek the Saviour. But children, what do you think of such whom the Lord came to seek, and save, and they keep out of His way, don’t want to be found of Him, nor saved by Him? Don’t you think they are unwise, foolish? Are you among the wise like the conies who make their home in the rock? These wise men are not deceived by the lowly and humble surroundings; they came to seek the Child whose star they had seen in the east, and they bow their knees and

worship Him, the King of the Jews and the Ruler of the universe. What the elders of the Jews refused and despised to do, these men did, whose hearts had been taught of God.

You see, children, God knows the pride and haughtiness of man’s heart, He resists the proud. The Lord Jesus made Himself of no reputation, that He might seek and save us, He became poor, that we through His poverty might be rich. How wonderful and precious that the Creator of all things, the Lord of glory, should be born into this world in Bethlehem and to lie in a manger.

Messages of God’s Love 2/2/1908

In the Midst of Life, We Are in Death

A SHORT time ago, mamma, papa, and I were at the wedding of a girl. friend, a Christian. There were a good many young people present, and we all gathered under the trees in the large garden, little dreaming of what sadness would fill our minds, and hearts the next day.

Among the company was a Christian young man, and our conversation, naturally drifted into that which, through our Lord’s mercy, was the bond among us all —the preciousness of belonging to Him, and we were speaking also, of the Lord’s coming and the resurrection.

One young lady said, “I cannot understand how that when we die, we go straight to be with the Lord, and our bodies remain here,” but this young man was so certain of it all and saw no difficulty about the soul going to be with the Lord, for it is His power that takes us.

On leaving, he remarked that he had enjoyed the evening, and said,

“Well, we shall have to postpone our conversation until we meet again,” to which one in the company replied, “We may never meet again together, there may be one of us missing,” and the thought flashed through my mind, Oh, that we all may meet around the throne above.

We all parted, having enjoyed ourselves very well. The next morning the sad and awful news was brought to us that B. J. was dead! He had gone home and told them there all about the outing, and had left them for the night. He had no sooner got into bed, than his friends heard a groan.

On going into his room, they found he was dead.

Just one or two hours after we had parted, he entered into the presence of the Lord, of which we had been speaking.

He had no pain, and had not complained of not feeling well, but looked perfectly well.

Oh, what a mercy that he was the Lord’s.

It has east a gloom over all our little town, as he was a favorite with nearly all who knew him.

Now, my dear young reader, if, as you go to bed tonight, God were to call you to pass into eternity, would you go to be “with the Lord?”

If you do not know Him as your Saviour, you would not go to be with Him. How dreadful it would be for you to be shut out from His presence forever! Turn to Him now, for soon it may be too late. Put off no longer accepting Him as your Lord and Saviour.

Messages of God’s Love 2/2/1908

The Wonderful Jewels

A LADY who had lost all her health in following the gaieties of the fashionable world was reclining on her bed, longing for the society and pleasure that she once enjoyed. She told her sick nurse to fetch the box that held her jewels, so that she might amuse herself in recalling to her memory the festive seasons when she had worn them to the admiration of so many. “Now, Nurse,” said she, “would you not like to have some of these jewels?”

“No, Ma’am, not at all, for I have jewels much finer.”

“How can that be, Nurse? Mine are the finest jewels in the land. Where are yours? You never wear them.”

The nurse held up her Bible, saying, “My jewels are in here.”

The lady, thinking that there were some hidden away in the book, said, “Take them out and show them to me.”

“Why, Ma’am, my jewels are so precious, I can only show you one at a time.” Then she opened her Bible and read—

“I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”—Phil. 4:11.

She told her of the treasure that she hail in heaven; how that, though poor, she had a loving Father, who provided for her, and the great happiness that she had in Him, and how she was patiently waiting for the kingdom to come.

“Why, Nurse, I never heard anything like that; how happy you must be to feel as you do! I wish I could do the same.”

The next day the lady said, “Nurse, I should like to see another of your jewels; the one you showed me was beautiful.”

The nurse again opened her Bible, and read—

“THIS IS A FAITHFUL SAYING, AND WORTHY OF ALL ACCEPTATION, THAT CHRIST JESUS CAME INTO THE WORLD TO SAVE SINNERS.” 1 Tim. 1:15.

From the few words that followed, the lady’s heart was opened to feel that she was a sinner, that Christ Jesus was her Saviour; and she soon found rest, peace, joy, in believing and trusting Christ Jesus as her Saviour.

Messages of God’s Love 2/2/1908

The Farewell from Mother

THE (laughter is bidding farewell to her mother. She is going to the distant city to occupy a position as a housemaid or servant. Perhaps mother is poor and the daughter in this way tries to earn some money and thus help her mother, instead of being a burden to her.

There may be another reason for the going away of the daughter; life may be too monotonous; everything too quiet for her, so she wants to go out into the world and taste a little of its pleasures. How dangerous! Do not such often fall a prey to the enemy? How many have thus gone and left the parental house and have been lost sight of, have been ruined in body and soul, even “as a bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it is for his life.” The preacher has quite a good deal to say to us all who are inclined to be wise in our own conceit, so he says: “Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.”

Again he says, “Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? There is more hope of a fool than of him.”

And, dear young friend, how much is that word of the apostle lost sight of, “Honor thy father and thy mother, . . . that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.”

How such, who leave their homes and parents need the Lord Jesus as their own Saviour. While we are always and all of us exposed to dangers from every side, yet how much more those who are young, inexperienced and about to leave or have left their natural guardians; and, boys and girls, who could wish you as well, and do as well for you as your parents, especially if they are Christians?

But should it become needful that you leave your parents, remember there is One above who loves you even more than your father or your mother, and may you carry the sense of that love with you, as you go among strangers, and to walk in His fear, will be your safeguard.

He will keep you from many temptations, yea, it is written that He gave Himself for our sins ,that He Might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father.

Notice in our picture how earnestly the mother is looking up in her daughter’s face and most probably is giving her some advice, exhortations and warnings. Perhaps the daughter, is not saved and the mother feels, therefore, anxious about her daughter, lest the enemy come and take away the good seed sown.

Dear young friend, whether at home or away, you have need of a Saviour, “Ye must be born again.” God has found a way to save sinners, and He invites them all, yea, beseeches them, to be reconciled to God. Salvation full and free is offered to all, is offered to you, who read these lines, now Christ has paid the debt you owed, “Christ has answered with His blood.” Why then are you waiting? Is it to make yourself better? Many have tried this before you, and, if you tarry till you’re better, You will never come at all.” Therefore come now, and come as you are, and let me assure you, the Lord Jesus will give you a hearty welcome. “CHILDREN, OBEY YOUR PARENTS IN THE LORD: FOR THIS IS RIGHT. HONOR THY FATHER AND MOTHER.” Eph. 6:1,2.

Messages of God’s Love 2/9/1908

The Man Who Died for Me

MANY years ago I wanted to go as a Foreign Missionary but my way seemed hedged about, and as the years came and went, I went to live on the Pacific coast, in California. Life was rough in the mining country where I lived with my husband and little boys. I heard of a man who lived over the hills, who was dying of consumption, and they said: “He is so vile, no one can stand it to stay with him, so the men place some food near him, and leave him for twenty-four hours.” And added, “They’ll find him dead some time, and the quicker the better. Never had a soul, I guess.”

The pity of it all haunted me as I went about my work, and I tried for three days to get someone to go and see him, and find out if he was in need of better care. As I turned from the last man, vexed with his indifference, the thought came to Me: “Why don’t you go yourself? Here’s missionary work if you want it.”

I’ll not tell how I weighed the probable uselessness of my going, or how I shrank from one so vile as he. It wasn’t the kind of work I wanted. At last, one day I went over the hills to the little abode or mud cabin. It was just one room. The door stood open, and up in one corner, on some straw and colored blankets, I found the dying man. Sin had left awful marks on his face, and if I had not heard that he could not move, I should have retreated. As my shadow fell over the floor, he looked up, and greeted me with a dreadful oath. I stepped forward a little, and there came another oath. “Don’t speak so, my friend,” I said. “I ain’t your friend. I ain’t got any friends,” he said.

“Well, I am yours, and “but the oaths came thickly, as he said: “You ain’t my friend. I never had any friends, and I don’t want any.”

I reached out, at arm’s length, the fruit I had brought him, and stepping back to the doorway, I asked him if he remembered his mother, hoping to find a tender place in his heart; but he cursed her. I asked him if he ever had wife, and he cursed her. I spoke of God, and he cursed Him. I tried to speak of Jesus and His death for us, but he stopped me with his oaths, and said: “That’s all a lie. Nobody ever died for others.”

I went away discouraged. I said to myself, “I knew it was no use.” The next day I went back again; and I went every day for two weeks, but he did not show the gratitude of a dog. At the end of that time, I said: “I’m not going anymore.” That night when I was putting my little boys to bed, I did not pray for the miner as I had been accustomed to do. My little Charlie noticed it, and said: “Mamma, you did not pray for the bad man.” “No,” I answered with a sigh. “Have you given him up, mamma?” “Yes, I guess so,” I said. “Has God given him up, mamma? Ought you to give him up till God does?”

That night I could not sleep. “That man dying, and so vile, with no one to care.” I got up and went away by myself to pray, but the moment I touched my knees, I was overpowered by the sense of how little meaning there had been to my prayers. I had had no faith, and I had not really cared, beyond a kind of half-hearted sentiment. I had not claimed this soul for God. Oh, the shame, the sham of my missionary zeal! I fell on my face literally, as I cried: “O Christ, give me a little glimpse of the worth of a human soul.” Did you, Christian, ever ask that and mean it? Don’t do it unless you are willing to give up ease and selfish pleasure, for life will be a different thing to you after that revelation. I stayed on my knees until Calvary became a reality to me. I cannot describe those hours. They came and went unheeded, but I learned that night what I had never known before, what it was to travail for a human soul. I saw my Lord as I had never seen Him before. I stayed there until the answer came. As 1 went back to my room, my husband said: “How about your miner?” “He is going to be saved,” I said. “How are you going to do it?” he asked. “The Lord is going to save him, and I don’t know as I shall do anything about it,” I replied.

The next morning brought a lesson in Christian work I had never learned. before. I had waited on other days until the afternoon when, my work being over, I could change my dress, put on my gloves, and take a walk while the shadows were on the hill-sides. That day, the moment my little boys went off to school, I left my work, and, without waiting for gloves or shadows, hurried over the hills, not to see “that vile wretch,” but, to win a soul. I thought the man might die. There was a human soul in the balance, and I wanted to get there quickly. As I passed’ on, a neighbor came out of her cabin, and said: “I’ll go over the hills with you, I guess.” I did not want her, but it was another lesson for me. God could plan better than I could. She had her little girl with her, and as we reached the cabin, she said: wait out here, and you hurry, won’t you?”

I do not know what I expected, but the man greeted me with an awful oath; but it did not hurt as it did before; for was behind Christ, and I stayed there. I could bear what struck him first. While I was changing the basin of water and towel for him, things which I had done every day, and which he had used, but never thanked me for, the clear laugh of the little girl rang out upon the air like a bird note. ‘What’s that?” said the man eagerly. “It’s a little girl outside who is waiting for me.” “Would you mind letting her come in?” said he, in a different tone from any I had heard before. Stepping to the door I beckoned to her, and then taking her by the hand, said: “Come in and see the sick man, Mamie.” She shrank back as she saw his face, and said, “I’m ‘frail,” but I assured her, “Poor sick man, can’t get up; he wants to see you.” She looked like an angel; her bright face, her eyes tender and pitiful. In her hand she held the flowers she had picked, and bending towards him, she said: “I sorry for ‘ou, sick man. Will ‘ou have a posy?” He laid his great bony hand beyond the flowers on the plump hand of the child, and the great tears came as he said: “I had a little girl once, and she died. Her name was Mamie. She cared for me. Nobody else did. Guess I’d been different if she’d lived. I’ve hated everybody since she died.”

I knew at once I had the key to the man’s heart. The thought came quickly, born of that midnight prayer, and I said: “When I spoke of your mother and your wife you cursed them; I know now that they were not good women,—you could not have cursed a good mother.” “Good Women! Oh, you don’t know nothing ‘bout that kind of woman. You can’t think what they was.”

“Well, if your little girl had lived and grown up with them, wouldn’t she have been just like them? Would you have liked to have her live for that?” He evidently had never thought of it, and his great eyes looked off for a full minute. As they came back to mine, he cried.

“Oh, God, no! I’d killed her first. I’m glad she died.”

Reaching out and taking the poor hand, I said, “The dear Lord didn’t want her to be like them. He loved her even better than you did. So He took her away where she could be cared for by the angels. He is keeping her for you. Today she is waiting for you. Don’t you want to see her again?”

“Oh, I’d be willing to be burnt alive a thousand times, if I could just see my little gal once more, my Mamie.”

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 2/9/1908

To Depart and to Be With Christ; Which Is Far Better

ANOTHER one of the number who has been answering the Questions has passed away to be with the Lord. Nellie Jones of Eulalia, Fla., passed away on 31St of Aug., 1907. She was one who knew the Lord as her Saviour, for some years, and for three years had responded to her Lord’s request “Do this in remembrance of Me.” One of her statements before she departed was to her mother.. She said, “Don’t worry or grieve after me for we will meet in heaven.”

How would it be with you, dear reader, if you were called away now from this life? You know not but that you might be the next one. Death take the young as well as the old and who knows how soon you will be taken. Ah, where will it be when you leave this scene? If you are not resting on Jesus and His finished work, nothing lies before you but everlasting woe. I trust it may not be so with you, but may you take Jesus as your own Saviour as Nellie did, and you will have joy in your heart while you are in this life and when called to depart, you will be forever with the Lord.

Messages of God’s Love 2/9/1908

The Return to Mother

THERE are not only lost sons, as we see one in the parable in Luke 15, but there are also lost daughters. In that parable we see the son proudly leaving his father’s house to spend his substance in riotous living.

You know how it went with him. At first all was joy and pleasure with him among his new found friends; but soon his money gave out, and then fled friends, and joy and pleasures. Then there was a mighty famine in the land, and he began to be in want, and we ace not very much surprised to learn that he went down step ‘by step into poverty and shame, until we find him a keeper of swine, seeking to satisfy his hunger on the husks the swine did eat, and no man gave unto him.

It was then that he came to himself. He held review so to speak of his past life; he looked over his whole misspent life, and the wrong path in which he had gone. He saw how all was wrong with him; how he had left his kind and loving father with all those comforts, and was led away by the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye and the pride of life;—three things ‘which God’s word tells us are not of the Father, but are of the world. Happy for the son, through this need of his, that there was a longing awakened in him for his father and the father’s house and the father’s plenty. “I will arise and go to my father;” there was repentance in his heart, for he determined to say to -his father: “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son; make me as one of thy hired servants.”

Then you know how he really started to go to his father. You know also how the aged father had hastened to meet his wayward but repentant son; how he fell on his neck and covered him with kisses, tokens of his never failing love. Then the son made his confession, only he could not speak of being a servant in his father’s house, after receiving such a warm welcome. The father orders the best robe, the shoes for his feet,- the ring for his finger; all the- rags and the filth of the far country had to give way to- those things which were suitable to the father’s house; not only so, but a great feast was prepared, the fatted calf was killed and there was great joy all through the father’s house, and by the ordering’ of the father, who said: “Let us eat and be merry for this my’ son was dead ‘and is alive again, he was lost and is found.”

As you know, dear children, the Lord Jesus, in this parable about the prodigal, shows us how God receives the repentant sinner in grace and-love.

But as mentioned above, there are lost daughters, as well as lost sons. Our picture shows us one such who returned, casting herself at her mother’s feet in all her sorrow and repentance over her misspent life.

In connection with this I desire to tell you the story of a girl from the country who left her mother to go to a large city. At first she was very prompt in writing I:: her mother; after a while letters became fewer, and their tone was colder and at last they ceased to come. The mother, for some time, waited patiently, but when no word came, she went to the city, thinking that she might possibly find her daughter. She failed, however, to find her and had almost made up her mind t return home, when the thought came to her to have her picture taken, and to place a copy in the windows of different/ places of amusement, in hope that her daughter might there see it, and longings be awakened in her to return home.

Sure enough, a few days later, the daughter on entering one of those places was attracted by the picture and said: “This woman looks just like my mother.” She then stepped a little nearer and exclaimed “Indeed, it is my mother!” Examining the picture more closely, she saw underneath in her mother’s own handwriting, these words: “Mary, I love you still!”

How those words pierced the heart of this thoughtless girl! Her happy childhood days; her kind, good mother, all came before her again, and, not least of all, hoW she had sinned’ against God. She could endure it no longer; she must return to her mother and to God, to own her guilt and her shame.

Well did Mary question: “Am I worthy to return to my kind, good mother and to stay at home again; will mother receive me?” But then she remembered those words: “Mary, I love you still!”

Yes, the mother’s love to her daughter was true and would give her daughter a warm welcome, should she return. Therefore- Mary allowed nothing to hindel: her; but hastening home, she cast herself at her mother’s feet, burying her face in her mother’s lap, and wept bitter tears of repentance, like the one in Luke 7:36, 50.

There she found grace and pardon; yet

how much sorrow she might have spared herself and her mother, had she taken heed to the word of God she had been taught in her youth and had not departed from it. Therefore we would say\with the preacher: “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days cone not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them.” Did you ever know, dear young reader, that these pleasures of sin leave a bitter sting? They satisf / not; and if you are one of those who indulge, you will sooner or later find that the “evil days” come, and you will say all is vanity and vexation of spirit; but, friend you may have waited too long.

The Lord says, “MY SON, GIVE ME THINE HEART.” Prov. 23:26. And further: “Let thine heart retain My words, keep My commandments and live.” . . . . “I have taught thee in the way of wisdom, I have led thee in right paths.” They who seek Me early shall find Me, and “whoso findeth Me, findeth life and shall obtain favor of the Lord.”

Messages of God’s Love 2/16/1908

The Man That Died for Me

(Continued.)

Oh, friends, you know what a blessed story I had then to tell, and I had been so close to Calvary that night that I could tell it in earnest! The poor face grew ashy pale as I talked, and the man threw up his arms as though his agony was mastering him. Two or three times he gasped as though losing breath. Then clutching me, he said. “What’s that, woman, you said t’other day ‘bout tal’cing to somebody out o’ sight?” “It’s praying,” I said. “I tell Him what I want.” “Pray now, pray quick. Tell Him I want my little gal agin. Tell Ellin anything you want to.”

I took the hands of the child, and placed them on the trembling hands of the man. Then dropping on my knees, with the child in front of me, I bade her pray for the man who had lost his little Mamie, and wanted to see her again.

This was Mamie’s prayer:—”Dear Jesus, this man is sick. He has lost his ‘ittle girl, and he feels bad about it. I’se so sorry for him, and he’s so sorry, too. Won’t You help him? Do, please. Amen.”

Heaven seemed to open before us. There stood One with the prints of the nails in His hands and the wound in His side. Mamie slipped away soon, but the man kept saying, “Tell Him more, tell Him everything; but, oh! you don’t know.” Then he poured out such a torrent of confession of his life that I could not have borne it but for the One Who was close to us that hour. You, Christian worker, know how HE reached out after that lost soul. By-and-by, the poor man grasped THE strong hands. It was the third day when the poor tired soul turned from everything, to Him, the Mighty to save, “The Man Who died for me.” He lived on for weeks, as if God would show how real was the change. I had been telling him one day about a Meeting, and he said: “I’d like to go to a Meetin’ once. I never went to one of them things.” So we planned a Meeting, and the men came from the mills and the mines, and filled the room. “Now, boys,” said he, “get down on your knees while she tells ‘bout that Man that died for me.”

I found myself telling the simple story of the cross. After awhile he said, “Oh, boys, you don’t half believe it, or you’d cry; you couldn’t help it. Boys, raise me up. I’d like to tell it once.” So they raised him up, and between his short breathing and coughing, he told the story. He used the language he knew, —”Boys,” he said, “you know how the water runs down the sluice boxes, and carries off all the dirt, and leaves the gold behind. Well, the blood of that Man she tells about, went right over me, just like that; it carried off ‘bout everything. But it left enough for me to see Mamie, and to see the Man that died for me. Oh, boys’ can’t you love Him?”

The next morning the door was closed, and I found two of the men sitting silently by a board stretched across two stools. They turned back the sheet from the dead, and I looked on the face, which seemed to have come back nearer to the “image of God.” “I wish you could have seen him when he went,” they said. “Tell me about it.” “Well, all at once he brightened up ‘bout midnight, and smilin’, said, ‘I’m goin,’ boys. Tell her I’m going to see Mamie. Tell her I’m going to see the Man that died for me,’ an’ he was gone.”

Kneeling there, with my hands over those poor cold ones, that had been stained with human blood, I asked come to understand more and more the worth of a human soul, and to be drawn into deeper sympathy with Christ’s yearning compassion, “Not willing that any should perish.”

Messages of God’s Love 2/16/1908

The Escape

LITTLE Emily lives- with her mother in a quiet street of the old city of Norwich. It is rather a poor street, but the houses are neat and respectable, and sometimes in summer the tiny gardens are gay with flowers. Emily’s mother is a dressmaker, and has to work hard for a living, Emily has to run on errands, and help to keep the house tidy. I am glad to tell you that although young, she is a believer in the Lord Jesus.

Perhaps you may learn a lesson from the trouble that this poor fatherless family had to pass through, during two days, a few months ago. Their street is near the river Wensum and one Saturday the water began to rise. About tea time, water entered the little back kitchen. Emily and her mother and sister, and the aged grandmother took refuge upstairs with all the things they could carry with them. Poor Ellen thought she and her mother would have to die together. All night there was no sleep for them, and in the morning they looked out anxiously for someone to come and save them.

At last they saw some kind men they knew, coming in boats. Emily and Ellen called from the bedroom window, “Oh! Mr. come and save us.” “I am coming for you” they answered, Glad indeed were they when their deliverers helped them into the boats, and saved them from a watery grave. One of the kind men nearly lost his life in the effort.

How earnestly Emily and Ellen watched from the window, and how eagerly did they accept the deliverance their Heavenly Father provided for ,them. They all four love Jesus, and during that dark and sorrowful night the widowed mother remembered the words, “Put your trust in God,” and her soul was sweetly sustained and comforted.

What would you have thought of Emily and Ellen, if, instead of watching at the window, when their deliverers were drawing nigh, they had hidden themselves in a corner of the room?

Would not that have been very foolish? Surely the men would have said, “Either those persons are rescued, or they do not wish to be saved.” We can scarcely imagine any one being so unwise.

Dear children, if you are unsaved remember—

“Another flood is coming soon,

Of fiery wrath and woe,

On all whose hearts have here refused

The God of grace to know.”

“But Jesus is the living Ark,

Where all who will may come,

And find in Him a hiding place

A safe, a happy home.”

A deliverer has drawn nigh, the blessed Saviour who invites you to come unto Him.

Do not refuse. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.” How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation. Heb.2:3.

Messages of God’s Love 2/16/1908

The Squirrels.

WITH what delight the children look at the squirrels as they hop along the ground, and climb the trees, gather up the nuts, and hold them between their two front paws, while they eat them or run up the tree with them to feed their little ones. Their clear, round, bright eyes and bushy tail add to their beauty and attractiveness; but I wonder how many children stop to think of the One who created them, and what His power and wisdom must be?

Ah, dear children, it is well ever to remember that if the thing made is wonderful, the maker must be more wonderful, for you can only learn one part of his power and wisdom in each thing he has made.

So it is with God. If we examine all creation, we may see His power as a Creator and adore Him for His greatness, but by that we can never tell anything about His love. God wants us to know more about Him than creation gives us, so He has given us His written word to let us know all His ways with man, from the beginning of time to the end of time, and in it show what His love is for us, and His holiness and righteousness. Wherever we may look in creation we see the finger of God and when we read the Bible we hear Him speak to us. Oh, may you read it often then, dear children, as well as look at all the beautiful and wonderful creatures of God, for in the Bible you will get God’s wisdom, how He shows up our sinful state, measuring us by His holiness, and then tells us His wonderful way to save us, according to all the love of His heart. No love can compare with His, for although he has shown us that we, in our natural state, are enemies to Him, yet He could give His only Son to die for us, so that Be righteously could save us; and that, not only from the everlasting judgment which would have been ours, but to take us to His glorious home above to share all that is His Son’s. Is not that wonderful love? Oh, may you seek to get some time every day to read the word of God and learn His wonderful love and wisdom, and then you will be able to enjoy properly this wonderful and beautiful creation of God.

“IT IS A GOOD THING TO GIVE THANKS UNTO THE LORD, AND. TO SING PRAISES UNTO THY NAME, O MOST HIGH: TO SHOW FORTH THY LOVING-KINDNESS IN THE MORNING, AND THY FAITHFULNESS EVERY NIGHT.” Psalm 92:1, 2.

Messages of God’s Love 2/23/1908

The Shepherd of the Hills

WHEN spending a holiday among some English hills, I discovered, on the summit of one, an inscription, cut in the short turf, so as to show the white chalk beneath, which ran thus—”LOOK.

SINNER, LOOK TO JESUS!” A brief appeal to any sinner that chanced to climb that way, based on the words of God,-Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth.” Isaiah 45:22.

Reader, are you saved? The one who traced those words could answer, “Yes,” for he had looked where he wished other sinners to look. He was a shepherd, and known by the name of “Salvation Jack.”

One day I found him resting in the shade, as he watched his flock. I learned from him that he had been converted through a little book containing three verses of Scripture, all in the third chapter of St. John’s Gospel. The first was. “God so loved the world, that He gave His only only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” The second followed, and read, “For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved.” The third verse was narrower, and more personal. “He that believeth on Him is not condemned; but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”

Before his conversion, drink had been a great temptation, so he gave it up, determining to indulge in nothing unworthy of a Christian. “I tried to keep to elder wine at first,” said he, “but it seemed half-and-half work. The wife still has a little; but I felt the bottle the other day, and it keeps heavy; she might as well let it go guggle, guggle, guggle on the earth. I pray God not to let it pass my lips again.”

“The hill is His, and so is the shepherd,” said he; and thus put a heavenly trade-mark upon his place of business. Do you do this? Another of his inscriptions was—”Which Road, Heaven or Hell?”

“We are all going to one or other,” was his comment, adding, “A young woman read it, who died shortly after; they said she’d gone to heaven, but I don’t know. The tree falls as it leans, and it’s hard 1,-ork to rear it up the other way.”

Reader, are you satisfied to fall the way you lean?

Another day, near the foot of one of the hills, I read—”Prepare To Meet Him!” and while sitting by this inscription, the writer himself came up.“ I had a job to spell that first word, sir. I asked several, but they didn’t know, or wouldn’t tell; then I remembered it was in John 14:2: ‘I go to prepare a place for you.’ So I got my old umbrella, for it was raining, and the turf is easier to cut when wet, and putting the book before me, I cut the words.”

As we sat on that hill-side, everything seemed suggestive to my shepherd-friend.

“My sheep have just been marked, that I may know them; they have their red mark, and so have I, and the Lord knows me and will be my guard.”

“But there are no lions about here!” I remarked.

“Plenty of two-legged ones,” he replied, with a bright twinkle’ of the eye.

“There’s a field yonder, choked with weeds and rubbish,” said he, pointing over a hedge; “I sometimes think that’s like our hearts.”

Then he told me another thought that had struck him. “This morning, when I took my sheep to water, I sang them a little song—

“Jesus the water of life will give

Freely, freely, freely;

Come to that fountain, oh, drink and live!

Flowing for ev’ry sinner.”

A beautiful mansion, newly built, stood in the distance, and from it, too, the pious shepherd drew a lesson. “When they were building that,” said he, “they dug down to the rock; and so must we, if we would build aright.”

On one occasion he was out of sight, near one of his inscriptions, when some passers-by stopped and read it.

“These salvation-folks are about again,” remarked one.

Jack suddenly came round, and followed up the opportunity, saying, “Pleased to hear you call them ‘salvation-folks’ for they know what salvation is, and the man who cut them words has got it, and can say, ‘Sudden death would be sudden glory.’ “

He then told me how one day driving home in a storm with a companion, a flash of lightning cleft a tree close by them. His friend said, “If the horse bolts, we shall both go together.”

“To the same place?” asked the shepherd.

His companion was not sure.

I hope-to go to the God of the tempest, whose lightning just struck that elm, for I am saved and ready.”

“Be ye also ready” (Matt. 24:44), said the Lord Jesus. Then it is possible to be ready. Reader, are you ready?

“I have been thinking of cutting ‘Feed My sheep,’ “ Jack remarked to me, “if there won’t be too many texts about these hills. I’ve been praying about it,” and he quoted—

“What a Friend we have in Jesus,

All our sins and griefs to bear!

What a privilege to carry

Ev’rything to God in prayer.”

“You think, then, we may pray about such trifles?” I asked.

“Everything sir! I’d been out once with the drill all day over the land, and was tired. As I thought of the long walk home, I asked the Lord to let me see a cart going my way, so as to get a ride. I went into father’s, close by, and the very man came along as would give me a lift. Another day, sir, the master wanted a hare, and gave me the gun to go and shoot one. So I asked the Master above to let me see one. I did, but she were a long way off; however, I fired, and hit her right in the head.”

It was dinner time, and Jack left me; as he did so, he looked across the lake towards the distant mansion, and struck up singing—

“Oh, Beulah Land! sweet Beulah Land!

As on thy highest mount I stand,

I look away across the sea,

Where mansions are prepared for me,

And view the shining glory shore:

My heaven, my home for evermore.”

The words and the prospect seemed very appropriate. The sheep left alone, gradually showed their wandering nature. A road ran along the bottom of the hill, and downward, ever downward, strayed the sheep towards that bare, dusty road, and when, an hour after, I was leaving the spot, some of the foremost ones were just straying out of sight. At that moment the shepherd returned, and led them back, calling to me as he did so, “They are like us, sir; we soon stray if the Shepherd is not nigh us, and we nigh the Shepherd.”

Jesus is that good Shepherd who gave His life for the sheep. Are you one of His sheep? He says, “I give unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.” John 10:28.

Messages of God’s Love 2/23/1908

The Christian

See this small humble cot; how fares it here?

The signs of want and poverty appear;

The wind blows in, the fire is burning low,

And through the thatch is dripping melted snow.

An aged man sits in an old arm-chair,

His face is worn, and streaked with gray his hair,

Yet on his brow is peace. Before him lies

God’s holy Book, on which he feasts his eyes.

He has true Christian joy. Though lone and poor,

He has no care; his hope of heaven is sure,

No crowned king is half so rich as he,

Whose riches last through all eternity.

Messages of God’s Love 2/23/1908

Youth

Lord, Thy Word is such a comfort,

From my youth it has been so,

For like Timothy, I knew it,

Felt its cheerful loving glow.

Dear children, learn your verses well,

Store your minds with God’s own truth,

Better far than gold or silver;

It will guard your steps in youth.

For the child that loves the Bible,

Will not walk in sinful ways,

But from strength, to strength grow stronger,

Brighter, brighter, shines his days.

For true wisdom gives her warnings,

From the rocks and shoals to steer,

And that life is sweeter, clearer,

Brighter every passing year.

Jesus stands with charms unequalled,

For to win your love complete,

Pardon, love, and sweet compassion,

He for heaven will make you meet.

Messages of God’s Love 2/23/1908

Bible Questions for March

Answers to Bible Questions for January

“For what shall it profit,” etc. Mark 8:36.

“Go home to thy friends,” etc. “ 5:19.

“I came not to call the,” etc. “ 2:17.

“For Moses said,” etc. “ 7:19.

“Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.” “ 2:5.

“Whosoever shall be,” etc. . “ 8:38.

“Thou art my beloved Son,” etc. “ 1:11.

Bible Questions for March

Answers to be found in the first 12.chapters of Luke.

Write the verse following these Words, “Beware of covetousness.”

Give the words following these “And He said to the woman.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Glory to God.”

Give the verse in which these words are found, “Judge not,” “Condemn not.”

Write the three verses which give the Lord’s answers to Satan when he was tempting Him in the wilderness.

Give the verse in which these words are found, “More value than many sparrows.” .

Give the rest of the verse where these words are found “And the angel said until them,” etc.

Messages of God’s Love 3/1/1908

Duty or Love

ONE Friday afternoon in September, 1869, Albert Drecker went to close the drawbridge over the Passaic River, for a train of the New York and Newark Railroad to cross. His little boy of ten years old came running at his side, and playing on the bridge. While the watchman was engaged closing the bridge, he heard a scream, and saw his child fall into the deep water beneath. At this moment the train was not in sight, owing to a curve in the line, but he heard it already near at hand, and knew that no time must be lost. To save the boy’s life would have been an easy matter; but the whistle of the train made it evident that the rescue of his child would involve the loss of many lives that were in his hands. What was he to do?

We may well suppose it was a moment of supreme agony! His child was drowning before his eyes, but Drecker stood to his post; he did his duty, and the train passed safely over it. But what was left for him? His darling child was drowned.

With an overwhelmed heart, the father stole down to the brink of the river, and drew to him the lifeless body of his child. And then, what a sight to meet loving mother’s eyes, as he bore in his arms the precious burden! But the train passed on; the passengers were safe.

Our hearts are thrilled as we picture this scene. But what is it to that all-surpassing scene which happened at Calvary rather more than eighteen hundred years ago. The actors in that scene were God and Christ for the world. And by it, “God cornmendeth His love toward us, 11 That, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8).

This was the great question—Shall the people who have brought just wrath upon them on account of their sins be consigned to everlasting punishment, or shall God’s own Son bear the judgment due to them?

The blood of the cross is God’s ground of salvation to perishing sinners. His love and grace are most boundless and free. All, all I have to do is simply to believe God’s statements about Jesus, about His work and precious blood. Oh, dear reader, come now. Accept of salvation on the spot, and as you read this believe and you will at once pass from death unto life. Believe and live.

Indeed, faint is the story of Drecker when you think what it cost God the Father to give up His Son. With the one it was a point of duty; but with God, it was unsought grace. Oh! what a sacrifice was the Lamb of God’s providing when God “spared not His own Son.” Hear that cry in Gethsemane—”O my Father! if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me: nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt.” That cry was heard;n heaven; that cry was heard by the Father who delighted in His Son, and angels came and ministered unto Him. But if you were to be saved, if you were to go to heaven, there was no other way than that Christ should drink that bitter cup—that was the cup of wrath, full for you, the just reward of your deeds; but Jesus took it, Jesus drank it, to the very dregs when the billows of divine wrath against our sin swept over His soul, and He cried, “My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me!” Thus He suffered and died, that all who believe on Him might be saved.

“Yes! He came from Heaven, suffered in our stead!"

Praise to Him be given., our exalted Head.

Jesus, meek and lowly, came the lost to save,

He the Victim holy, triumphed o’er the grave.”

Messages of God’s Love 3/1/1908

Whatsoever Things Ye Desire

TELL me, are you going out, mother?” said a little boy of seven, looking up at a woman whose worn and weary face, told a tale of suffering and want.

“Yes, Bertie. I’m going to take home this work. It ought.to have gone last night, but I could not get it finished in time.”

“Mother,”—the words came half hesitatingly—”Mother, what are we going to have for dinner to day?”

“Bread and dripping, Bertie; that is all mother has.” “But we had that yesterday, and for so many days. Oh! I do want something nice. Mother I do want a sausage so bad.”

“And I want a beetroot, mother,” these words came from Bertie’s little sister. “Will you bring it Mother?” and a tiny wistful face looked up longingly.

“Mother can’t today, darling. She has to pay her rent with the money that will come for this work.” And a half sigh escaped from the lips of that weary woman, left to struggle as best she could to make a home and a living for herself and her two little ones. But God had not forsaken her, and amid all her sorrows and poverty, her faith in Him shone brightly; and her children had learned from her example to trust in Jesus for everything.

“Mother,” said Bertie “Jesus could send us sausages and beetroot, couldn’t He?”

“Yes, Bertie, He could, but,”—it might not be His will to do so, she was going to add, but the little boy said quickly.

“Then, I’m going to ask Him,” and down on his knees he dropped with Elsie by his side. He closed his eyes, and said in an earnest little voice, “Please, Lord Jesus, we do want something very nice for our dinner. I want sausages, and Elsie wants a beetroot, and Mother hasn’t got money to buy them for us, so will you please to send them, Amen.”

“Step into the kitchen, will you Mrs. Allen, while I take up the work to Mistress,” said the maid, and into the kitchen Bertie’s mother went to wait for the money, that must all go for rent.

“Ah, Mrs. Allen” said the cook’s cheery voice, “It’s just right that you’ve come along; the man made a mistake this morning and sent two pounds of sausages instead of one, and I expect you could do with them, couldn’t you? The children will like them, I guess.”

Was it any wonder that the tears came into Mrs. Allen’s eyes as the sausages were handed to her. Then the story of the children’s prayer was told and thy cook’s eyes glistened also, as she realized how the butcher’s mistake had worked into the purpose of God.

But there was yet another call to be made, ere Mrs. Allen went home, and that was to help her sister-in-law cut out some work. The errand had been done and she was just leaving, when her brother came in straight from his garden, carrying a basket of vegetables. “How are you, Jennie, and how are the children? Would you like a beetroot for them? I’ve got some beauties here, isn’t Elsie fond of them? Take a couple with you,” and into the basket they went beside the sausages.

“Mother, it’s nearly dinner time, but the sausages haven’t come,” said Bertie, as his mother opened the door. “But it isn’t quite time,” added Elsie. Then the mother opened her basket, and let the little ones look in. “Where did they come from!” cried both children at once, and the Mother answered, “The Lord Jesus sent them, and now let us thank Him together.”

Messages of God’s Love 3/1/1908

Return of the Flock

HE evening has come with its lengthening shadows from the slowly setting sun, and the faithful shepherd boy gives the assemblying call to the sheep, for it is time to gather them home. They are weary with their day’s toil in gathering their food; their feet are sore with the thorns by the way, and some may be scratched and bleeding; but as he gathers them in, he anoints the bruises with oil, and to the weary and thirsty one he gives a full and refreshing drink of water and then he closes them all in safety.

How precious is the thought that the Lord has spoken of Himself as the Shepherd, and the believers in Him as His sheep. So when one thinks of the shepherds in an eastern land, and the way in which they care for the sheep, the thought may well come to the heart, of the Lord’s tender care of His own while in this life, and how He will soon come and give that shout and call all His own to come home to be forever with Himself and to go no more out. They will not have any more sorrows or any more crying, but will be in the joy of His presence for ever.

But what will it be for those who are not His sheep! Ah, they will be left out in the darkness of the night and in righteousness He will have to come upon them as a thief in the night, when they are not expecting Him, because they had rejected Him. They would not have Him as their Saviour and Shepherd, and they must then take Him as their Judge.

Now, I ask you, young or old,-who may read this, which way will you have Jesus, as your Saviour and Shepherd, or as your Judge? If it will be the latter, it will be your own fault, but if the former, the precious thoughts of His tenderness and care and calling His own to be with Himself will all be yours.

“MY SHEEP HEAR MY VOICE, AND I KNOW THEM, AND THEY FOLLOW ME: AND I GIVE UNTO THEM ETERNAL LIFE; AND THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH, NEITHER SHALL ANY MAN PLUCK THEM OUT OF MY HAND. MY FATHER, WHICH, GAVE THEM ME, IS GREATER THAN ALL; AND NO MAN IS ABLE TO PLUCK THEM OUT OF MY FATHER’S HAND.” John 10:27-29.

Messages of God’s Love 3/1/1908

Drowned

WHAT a touching and solemn picture this is. Doesn’t it speak to us as we look at it, for everyone who looks at it feels that a human being has broken through the ice, gone down in the cold, dark waters and drowned.

How pleasant and healthy it is too, for children to go on the ice when free from duties, to play, to slide and to skate!

The eyes do shine brightly from under the cap and the cheeks do glow in the bracing air. but there is need of caution especially as the weather gets warmer, and the ice gets more brittle. Then there is danger also about going on ice not thick enough to bear up, and one can hear and read every winter of many persons, young and old who found an unexpected, cold, watery grave.

To those whose eyes have been opened by the Lord Jesus, many people around them seem to be walking on a thin crust of ice, thinking they are secure and journeying heavenward, because they lead an outwardly honest and religious life, when in fact they are dead in trespasses and sins. They take no heed to the word of the Lord Jesus in which He says: “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Ponder it well, dear reader, and prove yourself, whether your faith stands in the wisdom of men, or in the power and love of God; whether you trust your religious feeling and good works, doing no one any harm, living honest before all, keeping Sunday and going to church, saying your prayers, etc., or whether you trust God who sent His beloved Son into the world to save you, and whose blood has washed your sins away. If it is the former it is like a thin crust of ice that will sooner or later let you down. Oh, how dangerous! Is this the way to heaven? Has God asked this of you? Why, my dear friend, if you could go to heaven on that road, then did Christ die in vain. All those sufferings of Christ on the cross would be an extravagance on God’s part and quite useless if you can save yourself.

Everything in this life is uncertain, like the sheet of ice. on the water. And, like the ice cracks before it breaks and lets you down, so the sickness that comes on you at times, tells you how quickly you may be taken away by death. God sends out His warnings. No one knows our dangers so well as God, and therefore (knowing His great love for us)’ we ought to be warned when He warns.

If the faithful dog of our picture looks with longing and some pain after his master who had broken through the ice and disappeared under the dark waters, how much more are God s’ people moved, and above all God’s own heart, to see His creatures going on in a careless and indifferent way, heeding neither His warning nor His invitation until Some day it may be said, “he died’,” or “she died.” But, dear reader, we know from God’s word that not only is it appointed unto men once to die, but after death the judgment.

Messages of God’s Love 3/8/1908

A Boy's Testimony for the Lord

JULES had the privilege of having believing parents. They spoke to him from his infancy of the love of God, shown out so fully in giving His only begotten Son, pressing upon him the need of coming to the Saviour without delay, to know the forgiveness, of sins, and the joy of full salvation. But the boy’s heart was closed to all these things, preferring the world, which, alas, has such power on the young mind. Jules was unusually lively, even turbulent, and very irritable when things did not go his own way, but God is rich in mercy and abundant In means, and was going to use a very serious illness to bring him to Himself.

Our little friend was ten years old. He was particularly fond of horses. A neighbor yielded to his constant pleading and allowed him to mount on one of his. All went well for a time but a person with evil intentions frightened the horse who started off in a hard gallop. Jules was terribly frightened, but he remembered his mother’s instruction, and cried out “Lord. Jesus have pity on me!” Immediately the horse stopped as if by magic; his prayer was answered directly, and Jules got down from the horse as soon as possible with his heart full of gratitude. This fright was not in vain; the Lord was speaking to him in His goodness and love. A few months after this, Jules was seized with violent toothache, and the pain was so intense that he started out, bare headed and barefooted to a watchmaker, who was also a dentist. He lived about five miles from Jules’ home and during his journey he was overtaken by a hard rain, wetting him to his skin, and this undermined his health completely, having heart disease. Laid upon a sick bed face to face with eternity, he began to reflect upon the past. Where would he go if his soul was demanded of him? Though young, he knew he was a sinner, unfit for that place of spotless holiness. Had he not many times offended God in disobeying his parents, and grieving them by his utter indifference? He was in great distress, but in his agony, one thing gave him confidence, the Lord had heard his prayer when he was on horseback, and in great fear, he had cried to Him then. Had He not said “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out?” John 6:37. Would He refuse to respond to the desire of his young heart filled with deep regret, and truly repentant? “Come unto me, all ye that labor, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28. Was he not of that number? So by faith in Jesus Christ, the Saviour that God has provided, and of whom his parents had spoken so, so many times, became his own Saviour, and the result was perfect peace. The storm that had raged in his heart became a calm, the boy was a new creation, “old things had passed away; behold, all things had become new. (2 Cor. 5:17) From that time his thoughts and desires were set on things unseen. The Lord Himself was all his delight. That “great salvation” so filled his soul that he wanted others to know it. I le called the aged and experienced to his bedside, so he might learn more of the precious things of God. His progress in divine things was remarkable, and he grew in grace and piety. During all his long illness, Jules showed patience and gentleness, worthy of the One to whom he belonged, bearing testimony to his Saviour by actions and words, confessing with his mouth the Lord Jesus, to all who came to see him, and sending; for his school mates so that he could tell them of the Saviour’s love, for his heart was overflowing with joy.

Seeing their dear child so devoted, his parents thought perhaps the Lord might raise him up, so as to use him for His glory, so they asked him if he would not like to live a little longer, so as to serve the Lord.

“Oh! no,” said Jules, “I fear I should dishonor Him.”

A few days later, he departed to be with Christ in His twelfth year.

Dear children, it is never too soon to come to the Saviour. Would you not like to have time to serve Him “a little while?” His love was so great that He gave His life for you.

Messages of God’s Love 3/8/1908

God Makes No Mistakes

A YOUNG man of fine talents and capabilities for an active life, was paralyzed and left crippled for life, before he had reached thirty years of age. After having been in this condition for some years, a friend who had called to see him was bemoaning his sad fate, and his helplessness. The young man slowly rained his withered hand, and with great earnestness exclaimed, “God makes no mistakes!”

How noble, such an owning of God’s! None but a heart taught of could thus express itself. Eternal gain comes through temporal loss, to those who bow under the mighty hand of God.

Do you submit, dear reader, or do you murmur when trial comes?

“Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?”

Messages of God’s Love 3/8/1908

Talks With the Tiny Ones About Eyes

Number 1.

THERE was once a poor, blind man, who could not see one little bit; he had never seen the bright sunshine, or the green grass and pretty flowers, or the kind faces of his father and mother; no, it was always dark for him. He could not work like other men, for he could not see what he was doing. In these days they have schools where blind children can go, and learn lots of things—how to read and write and sew and knit and make baskets, but in the days when this poor man I am telling you of lived, there were no such schools, and so the Poor fellow had to sit by the side of the road, and ask the people who. passed by to give him a little money, to buy food and clothes. Though he could not see who passed by, he could hear their footsteps; sometimes he would hear just one person passing, and sometimes several, and at other times there would be the tramp, tramp of donkeys, or horses, or tall camels carrying heavy loads into the city. But one day he heard a very great noise, oh, so many. people coming. “What is all this?” he says to himself, “I must find out.” The noise of many steps came nearer and nearer, the crowd is close to him now, he can ask his question, “What does all this mean, what is happening?” he inquires, and what do you think was the answer? “Jesus of Nazareth passeth by.” Yes, it was Jesus, the Son of God, who had come into the world, to do good to the men and women and children down, here. Do you think that Jesus knew He was passing a poor blind beggar? Yes, indeed He did, not only because He could see him with His eves, but because He was God as well as man, and knew everything.

The Lord Jesus knew how much that poor man longed to be healed, and he was just waiting for the man to ask Him to do it. Now there were several things that might have hindered the man from asking to be made to see. He might not have believed that Jesus could heal him, or he might not have cared whether he saw or not, or he might have thought, “I daresay He would heal me, but I don’t suppose He wants to,” or he might have said, “I can’t make Him hear me among so many people.” But this poor man did want his eyesight, oh! so badly, and he felt quite sure Jesus both could and would hear him, so he never stopped to think of the crowd, he just called out with all his might, begging Jesus to have mercy on him. Some of the people in the crowd began to scold the poor blind man “Do be quiet” they said, “Don’t make such a fuss,” but the man didn’t care about them, he wanted to see and he might never get another chance, so he called louder and louder, “Jesus, have mercy on me.” And the kind loving Lord Jesus did hear him, for He never misses hearing anyone who cries to Him, and really means it, and He stood still, and told someone to bring the poor man to Him.. How kind that was, for He knew he could not get through the big crowd alone. And when at last, the man stood before Him, the Lord asked him, “What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee?” the poor creature did not have to stop and think, he knew exactly what he wanted, and he answered, “Lord, that may receive my sight,” so Jesus spoke the word, and in one instant those blind eyes were opened, and the happy man could gaze upon the face of the One who had healed him. Did he go back to his seat by the wayside? Oh, no! he was no longer a blind beggar, but a rejoicing follower of the One who had given him sight. But before they all went on their way again, the Lord Jesus said one more word to the man. He said, “Thy faith hath healed thee,” (N. T.) Do you-know what that means? Well, faith means believing, as you have been often told, and this man believed three things. First, he believed, first, that he was blind and could not make himself see; second, that Jesus could make him see; and third, that He not only could heal him, but was quite willing to do it. Now, my dear little child, do you believe three things? First, that you are a sinful child, and cannot make yourself better? Second, that Jesus is able to take away your sin, for the blood of Jesus Christ, cleanseth from all sin, and thirdly, do you believe that He is longing to do it? If you really believe these three things, and want to be saved as much as the blind man wanted to see. you will do what he did, cry to the Lord Jesus, as if you mean it, “Lord have mercy on me,” and He will hear you, for He says, “HIM THAT COMETH TO ME, I WILL IN NO WISE CAST OUT.” John 6:37.

Messages of God’s Love 3/8/1908

Come

Ohl come to Jesus now

Jesus is here;

Before Hine lowly bow,

Jesus is here.,

Too many go away,

Too many still delay,

Though Jesus bids them stay,

Jesus is here.

Messages of God’s Love 3/8/1908

Grandma's Story

MANY times with deep interest the dear grandchildren have listened to the faithful Christian grandmother’s stories, that were ever given in view of directing the young hearts to the Lord Jesus, and such we know must ever have good results. So, dear children, ever be ready to listen to the stories that God has given us in His written word; for there is no wisdom to be compared to God’s wisdom and He lets us know the follies and mistakes of His people and the results; so that if we take heed to His instruction, we will be preserved from many of the follies and failures of this life and be saved from the sorrow that must necessarily come. But not only does He give us instruction so far as this life is concerned, but as to the everlasting future after we leave this life. It is needful that we should listen and walk according to His precepts for the little while we are in this life; and in order to be enabled to do it we must first accept His wondrous offer of salvation through Christ Jesus. Have you listened to that beautiful story about Jesus? Ah, I am sure most of my readers have. Now, may I ask you, What have you done about it? You know that God loved this world so much that He sent His only Son down into it, and sent Him for the purpose of giving Him to die in the place of the sinner. He bore the sins of His people and the awful results of the sins, so He cried out when in that place, “My God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken Me,” then He said, “It is finished,” and bowed His head and died. But He rose from the dead, and God accepted Him in the glory for He had done what He was sent to do in this world. He gained the victory and thus delivers all from that everlasting penalty of sin, who would put their trust in Him, who will have Him as their Saviour, who will simply come to Him. This may be another time you are listening to this story, or it may be even your first, but I ask you, What are you going to do about it? Oh, believe in Him now, if you have not done so, and your eternity is secured; and then you may meditate upon all the instruction in the many incidents God has given in His word, and be preserved from sorrows and even have your heart filled with joy, and live to the glory and praise of the One who so loved you.

Messages of God’s Love 3/15/1908

A Child's Trust

I HAVE a sweet, true story to tell the clear children, who with bright expectant faces receive “Messages of Love” from week to week. It shows how tenderly the Lord Jesus honored the faith of a little child.

Harry M. is a great friend of mine. He is about seven years old. Harry has often heard of the Lord Jesus, the good Shepherd, who gave His life for the sheep, and, through grace, Harry’s young heart has been won to love the precious Saviour.

At the time of which I write, a dark cloud of trial had gathered over Harry’s home. For many weeks his dear father had been too ill to go to his daily work, and his mother found it no easy matter to pay the rent and provide food for the household. There was not any money to spare for new clothes or shoes, and Harry’s boots had worn so thin, that one morning his mother said, “Does my little boy know that he cannot go to Sunday-school any more till I can get him a pair of new boots?” “Oh, mother, I am so sorry,” was Harry’s answer. “Yes, dear, and so am I, but perhaps you may not have to wait long, for the Doctor thinks you father is a little stronger, and if it pleases the Lord to raise him up again, he will buy you boots.”

Harry sat down to consider matters. After a silence of some time, he said, “Mother, the last time I was at school the teacher told us that the Lord Jesus has all power; that He can do whatever He pleases; He could send me some boots if He pleased.”

“Yes, dear, 1 am sure He could; but perhaps He wants you to learn a lesson of patience, and so may keep you waiting. You will not mind if it is His will, Harry?” “No Mother, but do you think it would be wrong to ask Him? would say, just as you please, Lord Jesus.’ “

So taking his old boots in his hand, Harry went upstairs, and, kneeling down with clasped hands, and reverent face, for he knew he was speaking to a great and holy God, with the simple trust of a little child, he told out his need to the Lord in heaven.

Two or three days passed, and though Harry did not say one word about the hoots, his mother felt sure he was still praying, and also watching for the answer to his prayer to come.

Saturday evening came, and while Harry went out on an errand for his mother, a friend called to leave a few shillings which were sent by a gentleman, who, though he had heard of the illness of Harry’s father, yet did not know; of the little boy’s need or of his prayer. Upon receiving the gift, the mother said, “The Lord has sent the means, and Harry shall have the boots,” and with glad and grateful heart she went out to purchase them. On her return, string and paper were quickly unfastened; Harry with one long, loving kiss for his mother, pronounced them “such beauties,” then went quietly away. His mother gently followed, and found her little boy thanking the Lord for having answered his prayer.

Dear children, who know the Lord Jesus as your own precious Saviour, do you take all your need to Him in prayer? And do you not forget to thank Him when He gives you just what you asked Him for, or perhaps something better?

“My God shall supply all your need, according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Phil. 4:19.

Messages of God’s Love 3/15/1908

Talks With the Tiny Ones About eyes

II.

I TOLD you the story the other day of a poor, blind man, whose eyes were opened by the Lord Jesus, when He was a man down here. Today,] want to tell you about a man, whose eyes were opened by the Lord, although he was not blind. This man lived a great, great many years ago, in the beautiful land of Canaan, the land God had chosen to put His own people, the children of Israel in. And they should have been the happiest people in the world; for they alone knew about the true God, who made heaven and earth. But often these people for whom God had done so much, were very naughty and disobedient, and then of course they were unhappy, because you know sin and sorrow go together. Sometimes God punished His people when they were disobedient, as fathers and mothers, have to punish their children when they are bad. One way that God punished them was by sending people from other countries to fight against them, and take away part of their land. At the time my story happened, a wicked heathen king had gathered a number of soldiers, and some down to the land of Canaan. He meant to hide in some place, and when the king of Israel passed by, rush out unexpectedly and fight against him. But the Lord did not let that heathen king do what he intended to. He knew just where he was hidden, and He told His faithful servant, the prophet Elisha all about it.

Then Elisha sent to the of Israel and warned him, “Do not pass by that place” he said, “the king of Syria is there with his soldiers.” This happened several times, and the heathen king could not understand how his secret places were always found out. At last one of his servants said, “I can tell you all about it; why, it is Elisha the prophet who tells the king of Israel, all your secrets.” How surprised the Syrian king must have been to hear this, He knew nothing about the great and mighty God, who knows everything that we do or say or even think, so he sent a captain and a number of soldiers, and horsemen, to the little town where Elisha was staying, and told them to bring the prophet to him. I wonder what he wanted to do with him? Could it have been to kill him, or put him in prison, or do you think he wanted to talk to this wonderful man who seemed to know so much? Well, the soldiers arrived with their fine chariots, and prancing horses, and when the people of the town waked up in the morning, what did they see but horses, and chariots and soldiers all ‘round the town. I do not know how the people of the town felt, but I daresay they were frightened enough. One young man was, anyway. He was Elisha’s servant, but I do not know his name. When he got up early arid went out, he saw all the soldiers, and he cried out in his fright, ‘Alas my master! How shall we do?” But the good old prophet was not afraid, he knew the Lord would take care of him, “Fear not” he said to the young man, and then he prayed this short prayer, “Lord, I pray Thee, open his eyes, that he may see.” Was the young man blind? Oh no! He could see those horses and chariots very well indeed, but there was something he could not see, until God opened his eyes, and gave him the power to see it; and what did he see then? Such a wonderful sight! Why, he saw the mountain full of chariots and horses of fire round about Elisha all there to take care of him and keep him from evil. Presently the soldiers came to take him, and then Elisha prayed another short prayer, but very different to the last, it was just this “Smite this people I pray Thee, with blindness.” And the same God who had opened one man’s eyes to see such wonderful things, smote the others with blindness, so that they could not take His servant. And now, little children, what, can we learn from this story? God does not please to open our eyes as He did the young man’s but if He did we should see angels around us too, taking care of us, and keeping us from harm and danger. The angels are God’s ministers, always ready to do what He bids them, and He sends them forth to minister to, or care for, His dear children and we know that they care for little children too, and watch over them by night and day. Here are two nice verses, about the angels who are round about us, though we cannot see them as Elisha’s servant did, because God’ has not been pleased to open our eyes; this is one, “THE ANGEL OF THE LORD ENCAMPETH ROUND ABOUT THEM THAT FEAR HIM, AND DE-LIVERETH THEM.” Psa. 34:7. The other verse is, “Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation. Heb. 1:14.

Messages of God’s Love 3/15/1908

The Converted Jew

Would you like to hear something about a converted Jew, and how he spent his vacation? Some years ago my daughter and I went to visit a pretty seaside place in Summershire, England, and as we were staying only a minute’s walk from the sands, we used to go out every morning to sit and watch the sea. One morning, on taking our usual seat, two men appeared; one was tall and slender, the other was short and dark; you had not to look long before you could decide that the dark man was a Jew. These men took their stand just opposite us, and the short, dark man began to speak about Jesus and His love—the One whom he once had hated.

The people came closer together to: hear him speak, until quite a good number stood around him. He told us how he once hated the word of God, but now it was his guide in all things; he had tried for many years to get away from God, but God had set His mind upon him, and he could not get peace until he believed the word of God all through.

This Jew was in earnest about precious souls. Are you in earnest about even one soul? it may be your brother or sister or even a little friend of yours. Do you, dear children, pray about them? Jesus shed his own precious blood that you and I should find a place in His Father’s home above: and Oh, how dear are the little children to His heart! He said when living down here, suffer little children to come unto Me.

“Blest Lamb of God, Thy precious blood

“Shall never lose its power,

“‘Till every ransom’d saint of God

“Be saved to sin no more.”

“Suffer little children, and forbid them nit, to come unto Me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Matt. 19:14.

Hark! the Saviour’s voice is speaking.

Words of kindness and of love;

“Come to Me, ye little children,

I will give you rest above.”

Hark! the Saviour still is speaking.

“Suffer them to come to Me;”

Come to Jesus, conic, dear children,

You will ever happy be.

Messages of God’s Love 3/15/1908

Diligent Hands

OBSERVE, dear young reader, how diligent the little girl in our picture is Without interruption she keeps her eyes steadfast on her work. It is only a little piece of work for her aunt to set a lamp or something else on, but it is to give joy to her aunt, and it is to give joy to herself also, therefore each stitch in it has to be taken with care, for no one could have pleasure in a faulty or unclean piece of work, be it for the schoolroom, house or business. Therefore each stitch had to be taken with care, for the whole work consisted of individual stitches.

It is well, to be employed; it is not good to be idle; idleness will lead to mischief, and, dear children, don’t think because you are children, your work consists only of play; it is a great mistake,

because children can be a help to father or mother, to themselves and one another; they can do useful things. Many a step they can save mother, even when they are quite small, and how much better to grow up a joy to your parents, rather than a grief.

Now, as the stitches in the work of our little girl had to be, each one, just so, to make it, when completed, a good work, so our lives,. if they are to be well pleasing to the Lord. Do not our whole lives consist of so many years, months, and days, yea each day of so many hours and minutes? Then if our whole life is to be pleasing to the Lord we must watch that we drop no stitches, that we do not soil or mar it.

I know well, children, that we cannot in our own strength live to God. We must first have forgiveness of sins and God’s Holy Spirit. Yet even then there has to be a continual watch set over our hearts, so sinful by nature, otherwise there will be failure upon failure. The Lord Jesus therefore tells us “Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.” “If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” Many are the warnings given us in God’s word like these, and is not this the only way to prove our love to Him, if we keep His word? It certainly is.

But you may say, “I am only a little child, and you cannot expect much from me.” This may be true, and yet children can go on in a God-pleasing way. Look for instance at Samuel. He pleased God when he was quite a little boy. Joseph is another; David also and Daniel and others. All these are proofs that children may g6 on in a pleasing way to God; and if you do, you may, like them, have to suffer for it, but how sweet will be the suffering. Such it was to St. ‘Paul, who said: “For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.”

“LET ALL THOSE THAT PUT THEIR TRUST IN THEE REJOICE: let them ever shout for joy, because Thou defendest them; let them also that love Thy name be joyful in Thee. Far Thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favor wilt Thou compass him as with a shield.” Psa. 5:11-12.

Messages of God’s Love 3/22/1908

Story of a Little Infirm Girl

HELENE was ten years old when she went to live with her grandmother in an old Swiss town. She had been sick ever since she was six years old. She had spent a year in a hospital where she went through several operations, which left her a helpless cripple, and she could only walk with the aid of crutches. Naturally she was rather reserved, of ,a gentle quiet character, bearing her sufferings with great patience; but she .was-often sad, for she did not yet know the Lord Jesus, who alone could make her truly happy. God in His grace had His eyes upon her. She met an Aunt at her grandmother’s who knew the Lord Jesus, and spoke to her of His love for poor lost sinners. For nearly three years this little girl listened attentively to all this precious instruction from the Word of God, and yet showed no sign of really knowing Christ as her own Saviour; this caused her Aunt much anxiety, and led her to pray constantly for her, as she loved her very dearly. But the time was coming when God was going to answer her prayers. Helene’s Aunt had a friend come to visit her, with the intentions of talking about her soul’s salvation, as she was very unhappy-, because she felt what a sinner she was before God. The conversation soo.1 turned to that most important subject. Bible in hand the Aunt sought to lead her distressed . friend to the One who alone, can give peace and rest to t1.- troubled soul. “Come unto Me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and will give you rest,” are His own precious words. Two hours passed; the Aunt had paid little attention to the sick child, who was in bed that day, and it was in her room all this conversation took place. Helene had not lost one word, for the Lord had used the words spoken to the friend, for blessing to her soul.

The visitor left; the Aunt accompanied her to the door, and what was her surprise when she returned to find the child in tears.

“Aunt, dear Aunt,” she exclaimed, “I have long sought Him, now I have found Him.” What joy for both! and they talked over the wonderful grace and love of that Saviour who said, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me,” and had revealed Himself to this little lamb.

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 3/22/1908

Talks With the Tiny Ones About Eyes

III.

WE have talked about the poor blind man who had his eyes opened by the Lord Jesus and also, about Elisha’s servant who had his eyes opened, although he was not blind, and now I want to talk to you today about how we may have the “eyes of our understanding” opened. I daresay you say, “I do not know what the eyes of my understanding are.” Well, I must try to explain it to you. When mother says, “Mary go and buy me some apples and some onions, and here is a quarter to pay for them, and be sure to bring me 5 cts. change,” perhaps she will add, “Do you see?” and Mary will say, “Yes mother, I see,” and off she goes. Now, What does Mary see, not the apples and onions certainly, for they are away over in the shop. No, what Mary means is that she understands; she sees with the “eyes of her understanding.” Again Jack says, “I do not see how to work this sum,” What does he mean? Why that he cannot understand how to do it. Now there are many things we can see with these “understanding eyes,” but just as Elisha’s servant could not see the horses around him, and the chariots of .fire, until the Lord opened his eyes, no more can we see the wonderful things in the Bible until the Lord opens our eyes. There is a little verse’ in the Psalms which says “Open Thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law.” That is a nice prayer for any -little child to say, for oh! there are such very wonderful things in God’s Holy Word, if we only have eyes.to see them. I knew a little girl once who was quite sure she had never done anything naughty, she knew her brothers and sisters had very often, but she never had. Her eyes were blind you see, to the state of her heart, if they had not been she would have known that she was a sinful child. It is very sad to be blind like this, because if little boys and girls do not see any sins they cannot see that they need a Saviour, for He came to save sinners. I am glad to tell you that this little girl soon afterwards had her eyes opened, and she was able to say, “I have found out now that I am a sinner, but I am so glad because I know that the Lord Jesus died for sinners, and He died for . me.” Once there was a Very poor little girl in far away Scotland. She had no friends, and she lived in a big hotel, where she spent all her time peeling potatoes, and washing dishes. I daresay you think she was not very happy, and I am sure you are right. One day a kind gentleman came to this hotel and he happened to see poor little Maggie. He felt sorry for her, and he began to talk to her about the Lord Jesus, how He had died for sinners. But Maggie did not feel much interested in what he said; her eyes had never been opened to see how naughty and sinful she was, so she did not feel any desire to have a Saviour. At last the gentleman said, “Maggie I want you to do this for me, every day—kneel down and say “Lord, show me myself.” The little girl promised to do this, and her kind friend went away. Sometime afterwards he returned, and when he got a chance he asked her mistress how Maggie was getting on. “Why,” said she, “I do not know what to do with her, she is constantly crying and saying what a bad girl she is.” “May I speak to her?” said the gentleman, and Maggie was called up, “Well, my little girl,” he said, “have you been saying your little prayer?” “Oh, yes Sir,” said Maggie, “and oh, I am a sinful girl. Every time I say it, I seem to think of more bad things I have done.” “Ah! Maggie,” said her friend, “the Lord has answered your little prayer, and has opened your eyes and showed you yourself. But you must not stop here; you must now say another little prayer, which I will teach you, “Lord, show me Thyself,” and giving her ‘a Testament he rode away. Maggie prayed the second prayer, and she read her little Testament, and the Lord Jesus answered her second prayer, as He had done the first, and He showed her that though she was a sinful child, He had come into this world and died on the dreadful cross, and there bore the punishment of all those sins she grieved over, so now she found they were all forgiven, all put away, and she could be a happy rejoicing child, seeking every day to please the One who had been so kind as to open her eyes and turn her from darkness to light. Dear little reader, will you too, say these little prayers, and may the Lord answer them by opening the eyes of your understanding.

Messages of God’s Love 3/22/1908

Forgotten

THERE was a little city, and few men within it; and there came a great king against it and besieged it, and built great bulwarks against it: now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same poor man.” Eccl. 9:14, 15.

The city is the world. Satan is the enemy. Jesus is the poor wise man; He is the “Wisdom of God.” He has accomplished the mighty work of redemption. Have you ever thought of Him? We read that no man remembered that same poor Man. Have you ever from your heart thanked the Saviour for accomplished redemption?

In Romans 1:21 and 28 the apostle sounds a warning because of forgetfulness and unthankfulness. We learn that God punished some because they failed to thank Him for blessings and mercies received, and because they did not like to retain God in their knowledge. The greatest mercy and blessing was that God sent His Son into this world to become our Saviour, and to deliver us from our adversary. Jesus our Saviour died for us.

If you are forgetful of that poor but blessed “Man” who though He was rich, yet for our sake became poor that we through His poverty might be rich, you have no part in Him nor His salvation. You are going through this world without God, and without peace, and therefore cannot count on eternal happiness.

We read: “The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.” Think you, dear reader that you can journey on through this world without love and thankfulness in your heart to Christ the Saviour, and yet go to heaven? There is no room up there for such; and you would be out of harmony also with all the surroundings, for nothing that defiles enters there, but His own redeemed ones are praising Him there without ceasing. What is their song? Here it is: “Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father, to ‘Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” Rev. 1:5, 6.

Messages of God’s Love 3/22/1908

The Little Ferry

IN many places on beautiful Lake Washington can be seen the little ferry boats which private families have to convey them from one part of their land to another, or to their neighbor’s land; as well as the larger ferries that take anyone who wants to go to the different landings. Some people go for the sake of the pleasure of the trip and to get a view of the beautiful scenery, but whatever the object, boats are used and are the suitable means of getting from one place to the other. , The writer went to one of these landings one day with the desire to board a boat to go to another part, but found he had to wait quite a while as it was not the time appointed for that ferry to leave. He had not seen that ferry before nor the place he wanted to go to, but he believed the official time table he had received, and purchased a ticket at the office and sat down and waited the appointed time.

This gives us a little illustration of our way to heaven, we are unable of ourselves to go there,, we need a means of getting there and we need a ticket or title to go. Jesus said, “I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE: NO MAN COMETH UNTO THE FATHER, BUT BY ME.” John 14:6.

The Father is in Heaven, how shall we go to Him? Only through Jesus. He has gone before us and He is a man now as well as God’s Son, and God has accepted Him and has Him at His right hand. You may say, He is that far like the ferry boat, to. take people from earth to the Father’s house, but what do we need to pay for our ticket or title to go there? Ah, the fare is very great and we are unable to pay it. Jesus is not only the way, but in becoming the way, He paid the fare to give us a title to heaven, and that was, He gave His life for us, for we had forfeited our life, by our sin, and were unfit to go into God’s presence. But now the believer in Jesus can go in through Him and God will accept such, for Jesus has paid the debt we owed and put’ our sins away. There is nothing for us ‘to do in all this; Jesus has done it all and we simply have to accept Him; to come to the Father by Him.

So as the writer believed the official time table about the boat he had not seen, so we are to believe God’s word that tells us about this blessed Saviour who is the way, who has paid the fare and will come again and take us to the Father’s house.

“Now is the accepted time;”

Now is the day of grace;

Then, children, come without delay,

And seek the Saviour’s face.

Messages of God’s Love 3/29/1908

Story of a Little Infirm Girl

(Continued.)

FROM that time, Helene was much happier, and she loved to hear of the Lord Jesus, who had drawn her so tenderly to Himself. She showed such a meek and gentle spirit that all those around her were surprised. Notwithstanding her constant suffering, she loved to occupy herself about others in her little way, seeking to give them pleasure, and you could see a group of little girls from the neighborhood gather round her every day. Leaning on her crutches, she would cut out doll dresses, skillfully, or teach them to embroider little things, as her Aunt had taught her to do. Her’ grandmother, with great perseverance, had taught her to read, as the dear child had never been able to go to school.

Great was her joy when she could read the New Testament her aunt had given her. The death of Christ interested her the most, and her eyes would fill with tears when she thought of how much He suffered for her.

Two years passed without any change in her disease. But in the spring of 1901 her condition grew rapidly worse, and the Doctor seemed to think the end was near. As the disease made its ravages on the poor little deformed body, her spiritual intelligence increased, so she was a comfort to her dear Aunt, who cared for her with the most tender affection.

One day she said to her, “Well! dearie if the Lord should come and take you home to day, would you be happy?” Fixing her large blue eyes on her Aunt, she said, “Why not, since I am quite ready?” What happy moments they spent together, when the dear little invalid did not suffer too much. Her great joy was to have her Aunt near her, reading the Bible to her, and speaking of the Lord Jesus whim she would see very soon. One day she said to her Aunt, “Oh! how the Lord loved me, bringing me here, so you could tell me of Him! Since. He has beconie the light of my soul, I have been so happy and before I was so sad.” When she spoke of her departure, it was with the greatest assurance; she was full of joy and delight. The minister often came to see her, going away edified. On the 14th of September, she would be sixteen years old, and she said to her Aunt, I think the Lord will come for me on my birthday. . But the day passed without any change, except increased suffering; it was a disappointment to her, and she was very silent all the evening. The next day she said to her Anut, “I thought I was going to depart and be with Christ yesterday, but since He leaves me here, it is that I may learn something more of Him.” She lived on twelve days longer talking constantly of her joy at the thought of meeting her Saviour.

One day the Doctor advised them not to give her much to drink, though her thirst was terrible. She said, “It is very hard not to be able to drink, when I am so thirsty, but when I am with the Lord, I shall ‘never thirst.’ “ So she consoled herself, and was grateful for all that was done for her. She would often say, “He will reward you for all the trouble I have given you.”

One day when her Aunt was showing her her tender affection, she exclaimed, “Dear Aunt, how happy you make me!”

One Sunday morning, the last she spent on earth, her Aunt went to the meeting, and when she returned she found the dear child very happy. She said she had felt the Lord’s presence and had been able to pray, adding, “I. talked so much to Him about you.”

A few days later, on the third of October, a complete change came over her. So far, her chest had been spared, but suddenly, it too became involved, and it was evident her end was near. She was very calm, and asked to be put in her chair.. As she could no longer lie down, she was made as comfortable as possible with cushions, and, for a while, seemed unconscious to all around her, when all at once she began to pray aloud, ending with, “O Lord, answer the prayer of Thy weak lamb. Thou seest how I suffer!” These were her last words. A few moments later she fell asleep in the arms of the good Shepherd who had given His life for the sheep, and she waits with Him, that happy moment when the poor body sown in corruption, will be raised incorruptible, a glorious body like unto His own!

Messages of God’s Love 3/29/1908

Talks With the Tiny Ones About Eyes

IV.

DID you ever hear the story of Hagar? She was a poor slave belonging to Abraham, and, her business was to wait upon his wife, Sarah. But after a time a great change came in the life of the poor slave, from being Sarah’s maid, she was raised to be Abraham’s wife, and then she grew proud, and her ways displeased Sarah so much that she treated her unkindly. Hagar got angry too now, so angry that she made up her mind to run away, and have nothing more to do with Sarah. But where could Hagar run? She did not know, but she started off, and after a while she found herself hot and tired, sitting beside a well. She was glad to get some water I am sure, and I daresay she thought it would be a good place to rest. How lonely she must have felt. Perhaps she began to feel sorry for what she had done. As she sat there, all alone, she suddenly heard a voice; someone had come to look for her and had found her. Who could it be? Was it her husband Abraham? No, Was it her mistress, Sarah? No, Someone quite different, was the angel of the Lord. Yes, the Lord was thinking about that poor slave, and seeking her out; He told her to go back and to do what her mistress told her. The Lord never is pleased if people are disobedient you know, and Hagar went back, but her heart was filled with wonder and astonishment to think of the Lord noticing her, and she called the name of the well she sat beside, “Thou God seest me.” The Lord does not come now and sit by people and talk to them but He sees each one of us, and knows just what we are doing. And we need not be surprised at this for in the Psalms we read, “He that formed the eye shall He not see?” (Psa. 94:9). There are many millions of people in this world, some are white, and some are black, and some are yellow. Some live in hot countries and some in cold, some are rich, very rich, and some are poor, very, very poor, some know about -God, and many do not, but how down to images of wood and stone, and yet God sees them all. He knows the name of each, and all about them. Can you understand this, little child? Oh, no, the wisest man cannot, Job said long ago, “Can’st thou by searching, find out God?” and it is still true. And yet though we cannot understand the marvelous power of God, we can believe it, for the Bible says The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.” Prov. 15:3. We can’t understand how God is looking at everyone, but is it not nice to be able to say, like Hagar “Thou God seest me,” little me, a little weak child, sometimes feeling afraid when all alone? Yes, God is watching over you, and He never forgets you. There is a sweet verse about it in Psalm 33:18. “The eye of the Lord is upon them that fear Him.” When a mother puts her baby on the floor, she keeps her eye upon him. Baby wants to creep down the step, but mother sees him, and pulls him back. Baby wants to creep close to the stove, mother is watching, and he is put in a safe place again. Now perhaps the wee man thinks mother unkind, not to let him go where he likes, but you understand all about it, and know he would have a fall or a burn, if that wise eye was not on him.

And little children, God is watching us in the same wise loving way, and He cannot always let us do what we wish, sometimes He has to let us be sick, or sorry, or disappointed, but it is always just what is the very best thing for us. God sees us too, when we are naughty; he sees if we take even a very little thing that does not belong to us, he sees us even if no one else can, if it is quite dark, for He says, “The darkness hideth not from Thee.” Oh, little ones, remember this, if you are trying to hide some naughty thing from Mother or Father. The Lord sees us now, as we have said, sees everyone, and we cannot see Him; but a time is coming, when the Lord Jesus will come back to this earth, and then every eye shall see Him, and will they be glad? No, they will be filled with fear, for He will have come to judge the world. His own dear people will have been taken away, before this to be with Himself, where in heaven they will see His face, and rejoice before Him forever. Little child, He sees you now, but you will see Him some day. Will it be as a judge whose eyes are as a flame of fire, or will it be as a loving Saviour, who has given His life for you?

How shall I meet those eyes,

Mine on Himself I cast,

And own myself the Saviour’s prize

Mercy from first to last.”

Like Him! Oh grace supreme!

Like Him before Thy face,

Like Hirn to know that glory beam

Unhindered face to face!

Messages of God’s Love 3/29/1908

Bible Questions for April

Answers to Bible Questions for February

“He was received up into,” etc. Mark 16:19.

“Watch ye therefore,” etc. “ 13:35

“And saith unto them,” etc. “ 14:34.

This is My beloved Son.” “ 9:7.

“But when Jesus saw it,” etc. “ 10:14.

“And very early in the,” etc. “ 16:2.

“And some began to spit on,” etc. “ 14:65.

Bible Questions for April

Answers to be found in Luke from beginning of 13th chapter to end.

Write the verse in which the words “Except ye repent,” are found.

Give the verse following these words, “The powers of heaven shall be shaken.”

Write the verse in which these words are found, “And thou shalt be blest.”

Write the verses in the 23rd chapter containing the words, “No fault in this man.” “No cause of death in Him.”

Give the verse in which these words are found, “Days of Noah.”

Write the verse containing these words, “Praising and blessing God.”

Give the remaining part of the verse in which these words are found, “Ye shall not see me until the time come when ye shall say.”

Messages of God’s Love 4/5/1908

Jericho

We continue to-day our meditations on the towns and villages of Palestine. “But.” will some of my little readers say, “what kind of a picture are you giving us today?”

Jericho was a beautiful and rich city; called the “city of palm trees” in God’s word. Deut. 34:3; 2 Chron. 28:15. And what indeed has become of all that glory? As you see, that beautiful city has been turned into a heap of ruin, and those most fertile fields were changed into a desert under the chastening hand of God.. The present Jericho being about one and one-half miles distant from the ancient one, consists of about forty to fifty mud-houses in which live several hundred of the poorest of people.

Moses had in his day spoken to the children of Israel that if they would not hearken to the voice of the Lord to do His will and to keep His commandments, He would send them hail instead of rain, sickness instead of health, poverty instead of prosperity; that He would break down their cities and lay them waste; instead of many, He would make them few; instead of being strong they should be weak and to flee when no one pursued them. This curse has Utterly been fulfilled.

So will it be with all those who in this present day of grace do not turn to the Lord when He may be found;—and that unanswered question is now before you who read these lines, dear friends: “HOW SHALL WE ESCAPE, IF WE NEGLECT SO GREAT SALVATION?” Heb. 2:3. Don’t you think, you who have heard so much about that Saviour and His cross, that this especially means you? I believe it does; you, who have heard in the Sunday-school; who have heard the gospel of God with its invitations; you who have heard God beseeching you to be reconciled to Himself, —He means you—you answer that question to your own heart, How shall you escape His righteous judgment? He in His mercy and grace says to you: “Today, if ye will hear His voice, harden not your heart!”

Jericho has experienced the goodness as well as severity of God. Those fruitful fields and the riches of the city were a proof of God’s goodness, which should have led them “to repentance.” And when the host of Israel with Joshua as their leader, laid low their glory, and made it level with the ground because they opposed Israel, then they learned also in a very. practical way the severity of God. Their high walls were no

While the city thought itself in its greatest security, sudden destruction came upon it, as it will in a not very distant day come upon this world, when it says, “Peace and safety.” The inhabitants of Jericho perished by the sword, and Joshua by the word of the Lord cursed the man who should undertake to rebuild the city.

But neither the goodness nor the severity of God made any impression on the people around. How true is the word that every imagination of the thoughts of man’s heart is only evil continually, and that the heart itself is corrupt beyond all recovery. It is incurably wicked. God’s grace alone can save ruined man. This grace Rahab and her relatives proved when God entered into judgment with Jericho. And why was this woman saved? \Vas she good and honorable? Just the contrary of all this, she has led a sinful life up to that time. But God’s dealings with Egypt and all the way God had led Israel through the wilderness had reached her ear, it produced terrible fear in her heart, then led her to repentance and to faith in God. She heard the report, and “faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.” She received the spies and messengers of God, she herself fled to God for refuge, trusting in Him for grace and mercy for herself and house in the day of Jericho’s downfall.

O, dear reader, the judgment of this world has been a settled thing with God for a long time, and in His word He has told us of it, even that the day is set. All who believe this flee to God to be saved; to-day He is a Saviour, soon He may be a Judge. He invites all to come to Him and be saved. God has sent His beloved Son to us as our Saviour, and that Son said in John 5:24, that those who hear His word and believe on Him who sent Him has everlasting life, shall not come into judgment, but is passed from death unto life.

You have noticed above that Joshua pronounced God’s curse over the city; that curse came on a man named Hiel, who in the days of that ungodly king Ahab rebuilt the city and his two sons died according to the word of the Lord. 1 Kings 16:34. “Be not deceived, God is not mocked.”

Elisha later on removed the curse. “The men of the city said unto Elisha, Behold I pray thee, the situation of this city is pleasant. . . . but the water is naught, and the ground barren.” “And Elisha cast salt in there and said, Thus saith the Lord, I have healed these waters; there shall not be from thence any more death or barren land.” Thus Jericho is a picture of this world which is under God’s curse, for He had said “Thorns and thistles shall it bring forth;” sickness and death reign, until Jesus comes to remove the curse. We read in His word: “There shall be no more curse.” And further in another place: “The creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption.” ,

How wonderful will this be! All who are now saved will then rejoice in this deliverance, yea they are walking now in the path of life, while all the rest are like the man who went from Jerusalem, the place of blessing, to Jericho the place of curse and those who were left have died by the wayside. Dear sinner, the true Samaritan still lives, the Saviour of sinners. He is right at hand for every needy one. “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither His ear heavy, that it cannot hear,” but mark God’s complaint, “Your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid His face from you, that He will not hear. Your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity, your lips have spoken lies, your tongue has muttered perverseness.” Isaiah 59:1-3.

We also read in the New Testament quite a little about Jericho. There were the two blind men, who desired to be saved as the Lord Jesus passed nearby. Zacchaeus too the rich publican lived in Jericho and took advantage of the nearness of the Saviour. Bartimaeus was told to hold his peace, but he cried all the more: “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” He had his desire. Zacchaeus, heedless of the sneers of the people went up into the tree to see Jesus, and was permitted to hear those words: “This day is salvation come to this house.”

If the world like Jericho is going to be judged, then dear friend take advantage of this present day of grace, and allow the Lord Jesus to save you! He loves you; He is able and willing to save, to bless, to guide and to keep.

Messages of God’s Love 4/5/1908

My Dear Young Christian Friends

I HAVE long felt a desire to write a word of warning in “Messages of Love” to you, in regard to your daily walk before the world and other young believers as well. We are told in God’s word to live soberly and righteously in this present evil world. Why are we admonished to live thus? Is it not because we are prone to frivolity? Do we not, when meeting other young people, talk and laugh in a very light and frivolous manner, and that very often after listening to a very solemn sermon by some older brother? Do you think this is pleasing to God? No, we feel that it is not. Many times there have been words spoken that has reached the conscience of some young person who has not yet come out full for Christ, and Satan comes in by your light talk and takes up the solemn words of warning and they are lost, and the one whose conscience has been touched, is farther away than he was before. It is a solemn thing, my dear young friends. If you had gone to the one whose conscience was exercised and spoken to him of Christ who died on the cross for his sins, and who was in grace patiently waiting his acceptance of the great sacrifice He has made, do you not think the result would have been very different? Yes, I think it would. I do not think young Christians intend to do wrong in this way; they are simply thoughtless, but God’s word tells us we have to give an account of every idle word spoken. I hope these few words may exercise your consciences, my dear young friends, and may God have all the glory.

Messages of God’s Love 4/5/1908

Come

Come, dear little children,

Unto Christ the Lord!

Come, for He has called you;

Listen to His word.

Come, while young and tender,

To His loving arms,

Prove His sweet compassion,

And His matchless charms.

He has died to save you

With His precious blood,

Died to make you happy

And forever good.

Would you live without Him?

Could you live in -sin?

This would be but folly,

And to sorrow bring.

Listen then, dear children,

Trust in Jesus now,

Trust Him as your Saviour,

In His footsteps go.

Then you will be happy,

Then you will be free,

Soon come and take you

With Himself to be

In His home in Glory,

There on high to sing

Glory, honor, blessing

Unto Christ the King.

Messages of God’s Love 4/5/1908

A Happy Family

THIS is the picture of a happy family. Look at the mother’s face and you will see a sweet calm look on it These people do not live in a fine big house, filled with costly furniture. The father has to work hard every day, for it takes all the money that he is able to earn, to feed and clothe so many little ones. The little children are just having breakfast. So are Tabby and Floss her little kitten. Do you see the bird in the cage on the stool? The little girl standing near it has a spoon in her hand. I suppose she thinks the bird wants something to eat too.

On the table are three plants which are. blooming and they make the room seem very pleasant and homelike. How contented they seem to be. If they believe in the Lord, they are indeed happy people for in 1 Tim. 6:16 we read that “Godliness with contentment is great gain.”

Are we content with what we have or do we look about us and envy those who have more of this world’s goods than we? When the Lord was here, He was poor and despised. Why should we expect anything from a world that hated the Son of God?

Messages of God’s Love 4/12/1908

Talks With the Tiny Ones About Eyes

I WONDER whether my dear little readers are tired of talking about eyes? It is such a wonderful subject that I think we might talk about it a great deal more but little folks get tired of one thing, so this must be the last talk about eyes. Did you ever think what useful little servants your eyes are? How could you get along without them? and yet some poor little children are blind and have never had the pleasure of looking at all the pretty things you have. When you were a tiny baby you could look at the bright wall paper, or the carpet, or the fire, and that kept you good and happy. Then as you got older, you noticed more and more things, till you learned to know the names of everything around you, and what they were used for, and now I daresay you go to school, and use those pretty black, or brown, or blue, or grey eyes to look at books and blackboards, and slates and copy books, oh! how useful your eyes are, and how very kind God has been to you, to give them to you. But if God has given you two eyes to use, some day you will have to tell Him how you used them, whether it was all for yourself, or whether you ever thought about using them in a way that would please Him. Perhaps you think, my eyes couldn’t do anything naughty, my hands might slap and my tongue might say bad words but my eyes just look at things. That is all true, but here is a verse in God’s holy word, which says “Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity.” What is vanity? Well, doesn’t it mean foolish things? If Jennie stops to look at the pretty things in the store windows, instead of hurrying home from school, when she knows mother wants her, I think she might say that little prayer; and I have known little girls and boys too, whose eyes are so busy reading story books that they never see when mother is tired and wants help. Now, next time you are asked to look for Grandmother’s spectacles, or Mother’s thimble, or to “keep an eye” on baby, just think to yourself, God has given me these eyes to use for Him, and if you are a little boy or girl who is trying to please the dear Lord Jesus who has died for you, it will make you very happy to think your bright eyes can be used in His service.

I heard of a good preacher once who said, “I was so helped in my preaching today, a little girl sat in front of me, and she looked right at me all the time, as if she wanted to hear every word.” Would you like to help the preacher, or Sunday-school teacher, or day-school teacher that way? Or are you like some little children, who look around this way and that wav, all through meeting, and never once think of listening to what is being said? Oh! you answer, I could not understand if I did listen. Well, do not be so sure of that. Try next Sunday, and keep your eyes on the one who is speaking, and I think you will find something you can understand, and if it is only a very little it will be better than looking at the hats or coats of your little companions, or the flies on the window. And there is one more thing I want all the little children who are able, to do, and that is to use their eyes to read at least one verse of God’s word every day. We are told in Psa. 119, that it is a lamp unto our feet, and a light unto our path, and in this dark world, we need something to show us our way, and the more you read God’s word with your natural eyes, and pray to Him to open the eyes of your understanding, the more wonderful and beautiful things you will find in it, till you can say, “How sweet are Thy words unto my taste! yea sweeter than honey to my mouth.” Let us each one learn to say this verse. “THY HANDS HAVE MADE ME, AND FASHIONED ME: GIVE ME UNDERSTANDING, THAT I MAY LEARN THY COMMANDMENTS.” Psa. 119:73.

Messages of God’s Love 4/12/1908

Jamie

ONE Lord’s day, in winter, I thought I would go and see the father and mother of a little boy and girl belonging to our school. I was very much interested in the father, an intelligent man, who always seemed to listen to what one had to say about God, but who could hardly ever be induced to attend the preaching; his excuse usually being the want of clothes, or, “It ain’t no use to begin if you can’t stick to it.”

He was ashamed to say in so many words what it was that kept him from “sticking to it,” and from having as decent a suit of Sunday clothes as any other working man, but he knew full well that I was quite aware of the reason, which, as I daresay, you have already guessed—was the love of drink.

He was one of the few men in our hamlet who could read, and when not spending his evening in the saloon, was usually to be found at home, reading the newspaper, or some book, not infrequently the Bible; and I hoped to find him thus employed that evening. But when I reached his home, which was situated in a very unattractive row of cottages, no light was to be seen through any of its cracked and rag-stuffed windows, and I began to think no one was in, and that I had denied myself the pleasure of going to the preaching for nothing. However, I did not like to go back without knocking, which was no sooner done, than I heard someone get up to open the door. The footsteps were those of Jamie, my little scholar, at that time an extremely bright and interesting boy of eight years. Though brimful of fun, Jamie seemed quite harmless and inoffensive to every creature, excepting in the bird-nesting season, when, to tell the truth, he robbed so many nests, that it was a wonder there were any birds left to sing in the porch.

“We always likes Jamie to go with us when we goes bird-nesting. He knows where all the nests are!” said a boy to me one day.

I have myself robbed him of whole pockets-full of poor little yellow-beaked, half-naked birds, which I knew to be in his keeping, yet on these occasions he never seemed cross or sulky afterwards. I think the real sorrow I could not help showing for his little captives used to awe and puzzle him too much for that.

Jamie was not only the best bird-nester; he was also the best scholar in his class, as well as the best singer in the school.

When I heard his footsteps, I felt my visit would not be in vain, for a chat with Jamie was always worthwhile.

It was so dark when the child opened the door that I could not see him. I said, “Well, Jamie, are you all alone in the dark?”

“No. Gov’ness, Sarah Ann’s in.”

“Are not your father and mother at home?”

“No, Gov’ness, father’s been gone to B. since last night, and mother’s gone to hunt for him.”

“Would you like me to come in for a little while?” I then asked.

“If you likes, Gov’ness,” he said in a half sad tone and I stepped inside. Bidding him poke the dull fire, which smouldered in the grate, I found my way to the chair upon which little Sarah Ann, only four years old, was resting her sleepy little head, and sitting down beside her I tried to waken her. This was soon accomplished with the help of something from my pocket.

After a chat with Jamie, who had seated himself on the fender, by the now flickering fire, I proposed that we should sing a hymn together. Sarah Ann was allowed to choose the hymn, and she chose the one I was quite sure she would:

“Jesus loves me, this I know,

For the Bible tells me so,”

at that time the favorite hymn of the school.

When we had finished singing, I talked to them about it, and especially about those two lines

“He will wash away my sin,

Let a little child come in.”

"'In, where?" I said.

"Heaven," said little Sarah Ann, quite promptly.

Then I told them as well as I could, how beautiful the Bible says the New Jerusalem is-of its jasper walls and gates of pearl; its golden street, where the white-robed saints walk ; and of the throne of God and of the Lamb. Around that throne, I told them, thousands of children will stand, who were once poor and sinful like themselves, but with their sins washed away in the blood of Jesus.

I told them too of the beautiful river which makes glad the city of God, and of the beautiful trees bearing twelve manner of fruits, and yielding their fruit every month which grew in the midst of the street, and on either side of the river, and how the Lamb leads His people to living fountains of waters, "And do you remember, Jamie," I asked, "what gives them light in that glorious place?"

I expected him to say "no," or "the sun," or "God," and was prepared to explain to him those beautiful words, "And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon to shine in it; for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light (or rather lamp) thereof." "And there shall be no night there: and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light." But to my surprise he gives me, at once, this beautiful answer, "God's face."

"Yes, Jamie," I said, "God is light, and would you like to go there?"

His answer surprised and pained me, for it was, "No, Gov'ness."

"Why would you not, Jamie?" "Because my sins ain't washed away," he replied.

Poor Jamie! there was such a tone of sober conviction of the truth of what he was saying, in his voice, that I felt quite touched, and pitying him from my heart, I did my best to show him how true those lines of the hymn we had sung together are:

"He will wash away my sin, Let a little child come in."

I pitied him, yet I felt glad he had been brought to feel that an unwashed sinner cannot stand the light of "God's face," or ever be happy in heaven.

I stayed as long as I could with the poor lonely little things, and when I had to go, it was with a sad heart. They were of tender years to sit up for a drunken father. I heard later that neither father, mother, nor brother came home that night, and that the little ones dragged. themselves up to bed, and were all night alone in the unlocked house. But "their angels," who always behold God's face, were there, and no harm came near them.

Jamie's father soon took him away from school to work with him at his own, occupation of stone-breaking.

Let us hope that the lessons learned in early childhood may have sunk deep into his heart, and, you dear readers, who are doubtless more favored than Jamie, may you find no rest until you know your sins are washed in the blood of Jesus, and made fit to walk in that street, paved with pure gold, like unto transparent glass, in the light of the smile of God's face; and may our dear readers who have accepted. Christ as their own Saviour, pray for such as Jamie and his little sister.

Do you not know of any such, who have not the advantages you have, to whom you could send "Messages of Love" after you have read them, and pray for God's blessing to follow them?

Messages of God’s Love 4/12/1908

Good Company

MARY has always played with the big dog which you see at her side. Its name is Curly. Why do you think the dog is watching her so eagerly? I’ll tell you. She is afraid something will happen to the little puppy which Mary has in her hands. I’m sure the little girl will not hurt it, for she loves them both dearly. Mary has no brothers or sisters and she lives away out in the country and so does not often have boys and girls to play with. When she is not in the house, her mamma looks out of the window and if she sees Curly frisking about, she is sure Mary is all right for they are always together. She feels sure, too, that her little girl is not learning anything wrong. Sometimes our playmates are bad, and little boys and girls who love the Lord should not do the things they see them do. This is what the Bible tells us to do when we are tempted to do wrong: “ENTER NOT INTO THE PATH OF THE WICKED, AND GO NOT IN THE WAY OF EVIL MEN. AVOID IT, PASS NOT BY IT, TURN FROM IT, AND PASS AWAY.” Pro. 4:14, 15.

Messages of God’s Love 4/19/1908

Tell the Truth

YOU, no doubt, have heard of that great French revolution, in which King Louis XVI with hundreds of others were beheaded. The French people in those days intended to do away with Christianity, and do away with kings and rulers. All churches were plundered and destroyed.

Among those who had to flee for their lives was a godly school teacher, Peillon by name. He and his friend had safely passed Bayonne in their flight and were nearing the Spanish border line. On top of one of the hills there stood an inn, and for this the two fugitives were heading, having a letter of commendation to the host, for the “love of Christ” to help these two on their way. And the host did this, too, for Christ’s sake, all he could do; he set before them the best he had for their supper, ordering a room to be in readiness and heated for these guests. But the two fugitives had scarcely finished their meal, when in the distance, and coming up the hill, was heard the clatter of many hoof, and though darkness was quickly setting in, yet one could see in the distance a troop of soldiers on horseback, galloping toward the Inn.

In one part of the living room stood an immense large bed, such as were often seen in the country in France. Mr. Peillon and his companion had only time to crawl under this bed, and draw the curtains in front of them:

“Should they ask, for you” said Adrian the host, “I will tell them that you had, after eating, continued your journey.”

“Yes, this will be all right,” replied Mr. Peillon’s companion.

“No, no, this will never do” replied the school teacher as he looked up from under the bed. “Hear what I tell you, dear friend; should any ask you of our whereabouts, you will tell them the truth, tell them that we are under the bed. If you tell them otherwise, I will come out and deliver myself up.”

Meanwhile the soldiers had come up, and some had dismounted and entered the house.

“Hello, citizen!” cried the leader, “we are on the track of a fugitive and have traced him here. Where is he?”

No answer.

“Of you do not answer, a few of those rifles—-well you understand!” threatened the man.

The host turned pale.

You will have it so, do von?” thundered the leader.

“See, here is the supper in which they have been disturbed, as evidence. Now, tell us where are they?”

“There, under the bed” said the host, trembling with fear.

“Do you want to fool me yet?” cried the leader in a rage, “to gain time that they may get away? Up, you people after them upstairs, down in the cellar, out in the stable—don’t let them get away.”

The soldiers obeyed, but could find no one, but a pair of tired horses, which could have told their own story.

“They can notice far off, perhaps in the woods near by quick, after them!” cried the sergeant.

“And you” he said, turning to the host, “I have a great desire to shoot you on the spot for telling such a barefaced lie.”

“Had we not better look under the bed?” suggested a soldier.

“Nonsense! that this fellow may have the laugh on us?”

No, no, let us hurry on!”

As soon as the soldiers had departed, Mr. Peillon and his companion came from their hiding place.

“Notice, my dear friend,” said he to the host, “God can accomplish what He wants to do, without our trying to help Him with a lie.”

An hour later the two fugitives departed toward the Spanish line, where they would be free from their persecutors.

If any were excusable for telling a lie, these people were, for two lives were at stake, but how blessedly true it is, that God honors those that honor Him. None shall ever be confounded who trust in Him. But who knows His ways? In their sore need He allowed some to be captured and put to death, others He delivered with a great deliverance; in all He will be glorified.

“God sits as sovereign on the throne,

And ruleth all things well.”

Messages of God’s Love 4/19/1908

The Saviour

A MISSIONARY from the continent of Africa writes: “It was a long time before I learned the language of the Negros well enough to converse with them over the things of God.”

Thus it was that for two and one-half years I sought in vain for the word “Saviour.” How difficult it was to make these people understand the gospel without that word; they could not understand me.

I asked Kikuwi and other natives for help in this matter but ever without satisfactory results. I shall never forget the time when my longings were gained.

It was a very dark night, black clouds chased each other and hid the brilliancy of the southern sky. I had seated myself with the natives around their fire, while they were telling each in his turn what had happened to each during the day. Kikuwi, being the brightest among them was relating how he delivered another from a lion. I was an attentive listener, thinking I might hear the word “Saviour,” “Redeemer” or “Deliverer.” I had almost given up all hope, when Kikuwi added in conclusion: “Bwana nukuthaniwa na Kikuwi.” (“Yes, Kikuwi has saved him.”)

I could have shouted for joy as I heard him say this, but to make sure I reversed his sentence and asked him: “You became his Saviour?” And when he answered in the affirmative, I said to him: “See Kikuwi, this is the word I have been searching for so long. I wanted to tell you that Jesus, the Son of God had come—” .

“Yes, yes,” he interrupted me quickly, and his black face shone: “I know it now, I understand now how Jesus came from heaven to kuthania (redeem, save) us from our sins, to kuthania us from the hand of Muinm (Satan).

I never heard more precious words. At last, at last had I found the word which should prove the key to the hearts of these black people.

Arriving at home I sank down on my knees in thanksgiving and praise.

The next day was Sunday. I sat early in the morning singing and playing on the guitar, a hymn I had translated. Kikuwi came to me telling me there were some people outside to see me. I. sang that song for them—but I should also preach to them.

“Kuthania” (Saviour) came for the first time over my lips. I had scarce begun, when one of the men interrupted me with a question, which was of great encouragement to me, for I could see that these people had real longing for peace.

What was my astonishment when Kikuwi begged so earnestly: “Master, let me speak once!”

And in a most wonderful way he brought the good news of God’s salvation before these, people. What was it that had filled this man with this wonderful light, he who hitherto had been able to grasp the truth only in little fragments? It was through that word “Saviour” of the preceding night that light had shone into his soul, light from above.

From childhood I have prayed to my “Saviour”, my “Redeemer.” I have had the privilege to witness for Him for years and to preach Him, to others, but since that night, that word “Saviour” had to me new, heavenly music. Dear child, is He precious to you? “Behold,” said the angel to the shepherds, “I bring you good tidings of great joy, for unto you is born this day a SAVIOUR.” The work of salvation has long been completed on the cross; and He calls to you, dear children, “Come, for all things are now ready.”,

What are you waiting for?

“Thou shalt call His name Jesus: for He shall save His people from their sins. Matt. 1:21.

Messages of God’s Love 4/19/1908

That Heavy Burden

A GREAT American statesman,—in fact he was one of the presidents,—was one day surprised by one of the foreign ambassadors, while he was on his knees in prayer. The ambassador had an important matter to bring before and speak over with the president, and in his eagerness, stepped into the audience room too soon and thus surprised the Chief Justice on his knees. The ambassador sought to withdraw embarrassed, but the president quietly rose and said: “Perhaps you will be surprised to find me in prayer; but the burdens and cares that rest on me are too many and too heavy for me, they bring me down on my knees.”

Hear what this man says, and he was one of the greatest and best of America’s presidents.

In scripture we read of a great state-man and chancellor who prayed often. It was Daniel. We read of him: “And his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God.” Dan. 6:10. Believe me, dear reader, there never was a more able, competent and wise statesman and chancellor in the world’s history than Daniel.

Messages of God’s Love 4/19/1908

What Shall It Profit?

“What shall it profit a man, it be shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul?” Mark 10:35.

A SUNDAY School teacher once remarked, “He who buys the truth makes a good bargain.” He then asked if any scholar recollected an instance in scripture of a bad bargain.

“I do,” replied a boy, “Esau sold his birthright for a mess of pottage.”

A second said “Judas made a bad bargain when he sold his Lord for thirty pieces of silver.”

A third boy observed, “Our Lord tells us that he makes a bad bargain, who, to gain the world, loses his own soul.”

Which, think you, dear young reader, is the worst of the three in his bargain? How is it with you? Are you buying the truth, and thus making a good bargain: or are you gaining the world, and thus making the fearful bargain of losing your soul?

Messages of God’s Love 4/19/1908

Things Well Pleasing to God

I. THE OBEDIENCE OF CHILDREN:

“Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.” Col. 3:20.

II. HELP IN THE LORD’S WORK.

“But I have all and abound, having received the things which were sent from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well pleasing to God.” Phil. 4:18.

III. EVERY FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IN US.

“Now the God of peace. . . . make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ.” Heb. 13:21.

“Do those things that are pleasing in His sight?” Col. 3:22.

Messages of God’s Love 4/19/1908

A Day in the Woods

WHAT a nice quiet time these girls are having in the woods. Do you know what they are doing? Have you ever woven a daisy chain? That is the way they are amusing themselves, after eating the good lunch, which they brought in the basket near them. I think they are sisters for they look so much alike. They left the city early in the morning, to spend a whole day in the woods, and they seem to be enjoying the beautiful things which God has given. Look at those fine old trees, which are shading them from the hot rays of the afternoon sun, while beyond these trees, light fleecy clouds are floating by. Birds too are flying about, adding their songs of gladness, to make the summer day even more perfect.

If these girls love the Lord they will be thankful and praise Him for the blessings they are enjoying, and look forward to the time when there will be nothing to mar perfect rest and joy with Him. While here, summer changes to cold bleak winter, sunshine to clouds and all life to death. We can be sure of nothing here. “FOR WHAT IS YOUR LIFE? IT IS EVEN A VAPOR, THAT APPEARETH FOR A LITTLE TIME, AND THEN VANISHETH AWAY.” James 4:14.

Messages of God’s Love 4/26/1908

God's Microscope

THE little incident I am about to relate to you took place many years ago over in the far east, in India, when microscopes were not as plentiful as they are now. A missionary there received one of those instruments from England, his native country. A young Hindu, who occasionally came to see the missionary looked with undisguised astonishment and delight at the instrument and the things it revealed.

The missionary took a drop of water, put it under the magnifying glass and let the Hindu look at it.

The expression of joy and delight disappeared from his face to give place to that of horror and fear. He begged to look at it a little more closely. What horror • filled him! Why, that water which he drank every day, in which he also performed his holy washings, was full of life—little horrid looking creatures twisted and squirmed and swam through the water.

“Does this thing speak the truth?” asked he earnestly, first’ looking at the glass then at the missionary.

“Even as God speaks the truth, so does this glass,” replied the missionary.

“If this be so, then I am destroying living creatures” cried he horrified, “and break the command of my religion! I, a good Hindu, a holy man!”

He went his way but returned the next day with a sack of corn, and with a sad erpression on his face offered to buy the microscope from the missionary. You children have no idea how that man suffered. He had hitherto been proud of his punctuality in keeping every command of his religion, but now had this awful microscope been showing him that he was guilty of one of the greatest and best known.

The missionary did not care to sell his microscope, but his young friend, like the widow in the 18th chapter of Luke, who would not be put off because of her importunity, continued.. to beg, until the missionary yielded, well knowing he could soon get another instrument from England.

Who was happier than the Hindu! He gladly paid the price and ran off with it as fast as he could into a thicket, the missionary following him, wondering what he was going to do with the instrument. The Hindu then cast it down to the ground with all his strength, thus breaking it in pieces; then stamping it with his feet in perfect joy and glee like a maniac.

The missionary stood looking at the man, wondering whether he had been bereaved of his senses. What did he mean?

When our Brahmin was somewhat quieted, he said: “That drop of water is to blame for it all. I could neither eat, drink nor sleep since I saw all those little animals in it. I said to myself, It can’t be true. I wished it was not true, therefore I wanted to destroy that wicked glass which has opened my eyes.”

He stopped speaking and looked with triumph at the missionary. Senseless man! there are many more microscopes in the world, though he destroyed this one, and even if there were no more, the little creatures would be there still and millions more. The microscope did not create them, it only showed them to the eye.

There are many ‘people just as foolish as this Hindu. Take King Ahab tor instance in I Kings 22,when he had to listen to unpleasant things about his sins, he threatened to cast the prophet into prison. The prophet was to him God’s microscope to make known his sins to him.

King Jehoiakim was another who would cast the book of Jeremiah into the fire to destroy it, because in it were written his sins and the punishment for them, and he did not want to hear about it.

Indeed the Bible, God’s word is like a microscope showing us the sins of our hearts and of our lives. Many people therefore hate the Bible, and all , tracts too, and gladly would destroy them all, because, they are exposed in them. But their sins would remain if they would destroy all the Bibles and tracts; what they need is a remedy for their sins,—a Saviour.

Messages of God’s Love 4/26/1908

Two Mothers

IN one of the state prisons of the United States was a young German criminal. A man of God, who was wont to visit the prisoners, had been permitted to see this young man and talk with him, but was struck with the hardness of his heart. Often he visited him to read the word of God to him and pray with him, but ever with the same result, —the hateful and sarcastic smile on his face was proof of what passed in his heart. One day as the servant of the Lord made his usual rounds from cell to cell, he read again some portion from God’s word to our young German, and before leaving kneeled down to pray. In his prayer he asked God to answer the prayers of God-fearing .mothers td save their sons and daughters, and as he did so, the young prisoner cast himself on the floor of the cell, weeping, sobbing and groaning. When asked for a reason for his strange behavior, he explained that he, too, had a Godly mother, and that it a11 came back to him how he treated her when she pleaded with him to turn to the Lord and forsake his sinful life. “I became wearied of being talked to so much,—though I often felt sorry for my mother when I saw her crying—and I resolved to leave home. One afternoon I came home intoxicated, telling my mother of my intention to go to America. She begged me to stay but I refused. Then she said: John, come let us bend together once more in prayer before we part. 1 became angry and struck her a blow, whose love for me was so unselfish and so great. I then rushed from the house, but as I went, I could hear her voice: ‘O, my son, my son! Lord Jesus, forgive him. save. him, follow him with Thy Holy Spirit!’ My race was downhill; my sinful course and my crimes landed me in prison as you see.”

Several weeks he went on sorrowing over his past, truly repenting of his sins against a loving mother and against a holy God. One morning as the preacher entered his cell he took him in his arms while tears of joy rolled over his cheeks. “Oh, that my mother knew this,” he cried out. “Her prayer has been answered. God has forgiven and saved me.”

Several years ago, the incident I want to relate to you took place in a courtroom in New York city. A young man who was the prisoner at the bar was tried for a very grave crime and found guilty. After the Judge had read the verdict, the young man stepped quickly over to a woman there present, and before any could prevent him, struck her and knocked her to the floor. When he was asked a reason for his strange behavior, he explained: “This woman whom I knocked down is my mother. When I was a boy I stole a chicken the first I ever stole—and brought it home. My mother cooked it and we ate it, and I was not reproved. That was my beginning in crime. Today, I am here found guilty, and my mother is in a large measure to blame for it. I have paid her my first payment for it.”

Even though his mother was very wrong in not showing her son how wicked stealing is, and she deserved to be punished, her son was, certainly not the one to give the punishment.

Children who have praying parents, how blest and favored are they, and how the prayers of their parents follow them, even though they should go and walk in bad and slippery places for a season.

Our hearts truly go out to those children who are brought up and never hear the name of Jesus reverently, who never hear the word of God, who never hear prayers in their homes, perhaps surrounded by lawlessness and crime. We would like to reach such in this way through the columns of “Messages of Love” and to tell them that God loves them. How much, you say? “God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Yes, He is mindful of you, though you may never think of Him. All are lost, the children of godly as well as ungodly parents, you must be born again. God loves you in all your sin (though He hates sin,) and invites you to come to Him to be saved. Come then, and come now to a Saviour who has long been wanting to save you from your sins and all the awful consequences of them.+

Messages of God’s Love 4/26/1908

Be Sure Your Sin Will Find You Out

Num. 32:23

A TRAVELLER who had fallen into the hands of some robbers, was murdered by them. In his last moments, seeing some ravens flying over his head, he exclaimed to them, “I call upon you to avenge my death.”

Three days after, the robbers, going into the neighboring town, saw some ravens on the roof of the inn where they were carousing. One of them said, sneeringly: “I suppose those are the ravens come to avenge the death of the traveller we despatched the other day.”

The servant overhearing these words, ran and repeated them to the magistrate. who had the robbers taken up. On enquiry being made, they were convicted of the murder and hanged.

How true it is that our sins will find us out. We may think we have things well covered up, but nothing can be covered from God’s sight, and He will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, sooner or later.

May we ever remember that word, “Thou God seest me,” and seek to walk before Him, as those who are under His eye: then will true wisdom be ours; for “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” But to the wicked, who have “no fear of God” before their eyes, retribution must come. God could use ravens to feed Elijah, and He can use ravens to condemn guilty men. He can also make their own mouths to condemn them.

“God is in heaven: can He see

If I am doing wrong?”

“Oh, yes, He can; He looks at thee

All day and all night long.”

“God is in heaven: would He know

If I should tell a lie?”

“Yes; if thou saidst it soft and low,

He’d hear it in the sky.”

“God is in heaven: does He care

Thence to send good to me?”

“Yes; in His Word He Both declare

All good He giveth thee.”

“God is in heaven: would He save

A little child like me?”

“Yes, little child; for Jesus gave

His life for such as thee.”

Messages of God’s Love 4/26/1908

A Letter to Our Readers

ANOTHER year has rolled by since we began our ninth volume and now we have the pleasure of thanking our kind, Christian readers and Sunday-school teachers. for their fellowship in getting others to subscribe for the paper, and also subscribing themselves for their friends and neighbors who are willing to read them but have not been willing to pay. We trust, too, that much more of this will be done during this year we are entering upon, and that much prayer from such will be offered for God’s blessing to accompany each paper. We have now an edition of eight thousand per week and we would be glad to see that number doubled, if we are to be left here another year. But we do not know what God is going to do; whether He will still wait in patience for sinners to turn to Him, or whether the Lord will come and take all His own out of this world to be with Himself. He. has said “Surely, -I come quickly,” so it becomes those who are His to be spreading the gospel in every direction, and by whatever means He gives; to be much in prayer and walking pleasing to Him.

There are those, no doubt, who are not saved that will read these lines, and such we would affectionately entreat return to, the Lord now and believe in Him as the One that has died for you. If you do not; remember, when the Lord comes and takes away His own, you will be left behind for judgment.

We are thankful to relate that God still encourages us in letting us know of blessing through “Messages of Love,” but there is a day not far distant when we will get the Lord’s estimate of all the work done here and then we shall be able to know what He has seen fit to use for blessing, and to Him will be all the praise.

We shall be thankful to get letters from our readers relating cases of conversion, or asking questions on Scripture, and answers will be given, as the Lord enables us.

Messages of God’s Love 5/3/1908

Bible Questions for May

Answers to Bible Question for March

“For a man’s life,” etc. Luke 12:15.

“Thy faith hath saved,” etc. . ” 7:50.

“Glory to God,” etc. “ 2:14.

“Judge not,” etc. “ 6:37.

“Jesus answered him,” etc. “ 4:4.
“And Jesus answered,” etc. “ 4:8.
“And Jesus answering,” etc. “ 4:12.

“But even the very hairs,” etc. “ 12:7.

“Fear not.” “ 2:10.

Bible Questions for May

Answers to be found in first 11 Chapters of John’s Gospel.

Write the verse , following these words, “In the resurrection at the last day. Jesus said unto her.”

Write the words following these, “Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them.”

Write the words following these, “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying,”

Write the verse in which the words “Door,” “Enter,” are found.

Write the words which follow these, “The Jews then murmured at Him because He said.”

Write the whole verse containing the words, “Shepherd,” “Life,” “Sheep.”

Write the words which follow these, “Say ye of Him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said,”‘

Messages of God’s Love 5/3/1908

A Child's Question

HOW strange are God’s ways to bring to Himself one and another of the children of men. This was certainly the case with Mrs. A.—whose heart and conscience were awakened for, the first time through the simple question of a little girl.

Mrs. A.— was in good circumstances, had been brought up the child of a godly mother, but, though she had a quiet and sober disposition, she had never learned to know herself in God’s Presence.

Having been married but a short time she lost both husband and child, and having no other relatives, it left her lonely indeed. In addition to all this, the little money her husband left her was soon used up, and she was left in pitiable circumstances. That all this was ordered by a kind and loving God she did not know at that time. Well did she sigh, and pray and go to church regularly, but she was not broken down before God.

But God dealt very graciously with her. She got a position in a wealthy family as a governess, and soon she felt herself quite at home. She loved the children who were under her care, especially the smallest one, little Marie, she was very much attached to, and they all were fond of their governess.

One Lord’s day morning, Mrs. A.—was about to go to church, taking with her one of the older girls, Marie being too small to go. Mrs. A.— was looking for her little pet to bid her goodby, and in her hand she had a beautifully bound prayer book with gold clasps. Joyfully, little Marie ran to give her beloved governess a farewell kiss, when her eyes caught sight of the nice book.

“What is this beautiful “book you have here?” she asked curiously.

“This is my prayer book, my darling” replied the widow tenderly; “in it is printed what I am going to say to God.”

Little Marie was thoughtful for a moment, then said, fastening her eye earnestly on Mrs. A.—: “Did you write the book?”

The widow was embarrassed. What a strange question! As a matter of course she did not write the book. The thought came to her as quick as lightning, what folly it was to address God in words and sentences written down by another person whom she did not even know. Her thoughts ran quickly farther: If she had anything which burdened her heart to ask of God, she alone could say it to Him in her own words; if, till now, she had prayed from her prayer-book only, was it not proof that she had never really prayed at all?

But the child was waiting for an answer; what could she tell her? Should she tell a lie? No, under no circumstances. She must tell the truth whatever impression it would leave.

So she answered in a husky voice: “No, my dear, the book has been written by a strange gentleman whom I do not know.”

In the eyes of our little pet you could read undisguised astonishment. Her bright face grew very earnest and sober, and she said in a low tone: “How can a strange gentleman know what you want to say to God?”

Mrs. A.— stood as rooted to the floor.

Her heart beat fast and loud. These words from the lips of the little girl reached her ears like a peal of thunder. Had she been struck with blindness all her life?

God had said, “My son, give Me thine heart,” and would He take heed to any prayer but those that come from the heart? Could she repeat, like a parrot, what another had written down for her? In her agitation, she pressed the little girl to her heart, cast away the prayer-book and hurried out of the house. For the first time in her life, she listened eagerly to the words of the preacher, as he spoke of the sacrificial death of Christ on the cross; to accomplish redemption for poor lost sinners. She could scarcely hold back her tears.

Arriving at home she went to her room and locked the door. She fell on her knees and cried to God from her inmost heart for mercy and pardon, owning that all her life had been but a blank, hollow, empty, religious ceremony; she had never feared, loved nor served God. And when did God ever turn away an anxious, seeking soul? Mrs. A.— left her room a pardoned one. She was able to give thanks and praise to God for all. He had done for her.

From that time on Mrs. A.— was more attached to little Marie than ever before, you may be sure. And does our little narrative end here? No.! Mrs. A.— had the blessed privilege to sow the precious seed of God’s word into little Marie’s young and receptive heart, and to lead her to Christ. The prayerbook was not opened any more, but Mrs. A.— laid it away to remind her of the hour when God, through the lips of a little child, spoke to her, and awakened her out of her dead sleep, and Himself shined into her dark heart.

Dear reader! I know you have often heard of God; but have you ever opened your heart to Him? Have you turned yourself over to Him? If not, then cast aside indifference and outward religion; both will lead you to eternal ruin. Job says at the end of his book, “I have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear; but now mine eye seeth Thee. Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.”

May this be the language of your heart! God’s answer will not be long in coming. He will give you all things for time and for eternity, according to the riches of His grace.

Messages of God’s Love 5/3/1908

The Safety of the Little Ones

THE little tots in our picture this week are too young to be able to read, but they can look at pictures, and are interested in doing so; and are sitting so quietly and peacefully.

While pictures cannot save a soul nor teach us God’s thoughts, yet the little ones are often so interested by them, that do not rest till the father or mother or same older person than themselves, reads what is written about the picture.

We desire then, while interesting the little ones with a picture, to draw their attention to what God has to say to them.

Many beautiful statements are given to us in Scripture about children, and there are two of these I would like to have your notice drawn to. The first is, “IT IS NOT THE WILL OF YOUR FATHER WHICH IS IN HEAVEN, THAT ONE OF .THOSE LITTLE ONES SHOULD PERISH.” Matt. 18: 14. The second is “Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto Me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Matt. 19:14.

Precious is the thought, that not one of these. little ones perish. If they die, they go to be with the Lord Jesus who came to save them; and He does not want anyone to hinder their coming to Him now in simple faith, and He says “Of such is the kingdom of Heaven.”

Is not the love and care of God for you wonderful, dear children? And Jesus is the One who has come and told us the Father’s love, and Jesus is the One who says, “Suffer little children to come unto Me.” Ah, yes, Jesus loves you, and although you are little and cannot do great things, He takes notice of you, and knowing you could not take yourselves to heaven, He came down and died for you and will save all who come to God through Him.

Oh, come to Jesus, children, come,

Don’t delay.

Secure a place in heaven’s bright home,

While ‘tis day;

That blessed home is filling fast,

And mercy’s day will soon be past,

Soon earth shall hear the trumpet’s blast:

Come away.

The youngest one in our picture is looking intently on the book while the older one is turning round as if to say, please read this story to us.

lf you are not able to read, be sure and get someone to read the gospel stories to you; and if you are able to read them, try and find someone else to read them to, and thus help to point them to the Lord Jesus.

Messages of God’s Love 5/3/1908

Washing Day

HOW busy these little girls are. It is washing day and they are trying to help mother. Two of the sisters are washing some clothes in a little tub, while another is, hanging some on a line. See how they have tied the line to the chairs. I suppose the baby thinks she is helping too. Perhaps she undressed the doll, which she is holding, so that its clothes could he washed with the others.

Do you think they are washing only the doll’s clothes? Look at the ones on the line and I think you will say they are too ‘large for dolly. Some of them belong to baby, who is small and needs a great many clean clothes.

In the picture you can see a door opening into an outer room. There is the mother putting clothes into an old-fashioned boiler. It must make her very happy to see how hard the girls are trying to help her and how happy they are while doing it. ,There are many boys and girls who are not always willing to help others. We all should be glad to do what we can for those who need help. “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.” Eccl. 9:10.

We can learn another lesson from this picture. Boys and girls ought to work or play together without any quarreling. These sisters seem to be very kind and loving. That is why they can work or play together so nicely. In Eph. 4:32 we read: “BE YE KIND ONE TO ANOTHER, TENDERHEARTED, FORGIVING ONE ANOTHER, EVEN AS GOD FOR CHRIST’S SAKE HATH FORGIVEN YOU.”

Messages of God’s Love 5/10/1908

Eternity

A MINISTER was dying, and he called his son, who was a thoughtless lad, to his bedside. “Tom,” he said, “will you promise me one thing before I die? I only ask that, when I am gone, you will go every evening alone for fifteen minutes and say, ‘What is eternity? and where shall I spend it?’

The he promise was given, and faithfully kept. At first the lad thought little of the words; but he went on doing as he had promised his dying father, until, at last, he was not able to face the awful question any longer, and was led to give himself to Jesus.

Where will. you spend eternity my young reader? You do not wish to spend it in the lake of fire: but have you fled to the only place of refuge from that icar:u1 place of woe?

Messages of God’s Love 5/10/1908

Is God Able?

IS God able to save me?” was the question of one who was manifestly in the power of the great enemy. “Yes,” I answered, “God is able to save you. That is a settled matter. But the question is, Are you willing to be saved?” This set things in a new light, and my enquirer had to look into himself for an answer to the question, Why was he not saved? Now, unsaved reader, God is willing you should be saved, so willing that He has given His Son; that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16). He is so willing that you should be saved, that He has imposed no hard conditions; He has fixed no price to be paid; He has appointed no tine during which you must wait. You are invited to make the gift of eternal life yours, and the only condition is that you receive it. You are not asked to come although you are a sinner, but because you are a sinner, for it was to save the “lost” that Jesus came. You ask when may this gift be yours. God answers, Now. “Come now,” He says (Isaiah 1:18). “Acquaint now thyself with Him, and be at peace” (Job 22:21). “Behold, now is the accepted time.”

Oh, tell it unto all around,

Jesus died,

‘Tis such a precious, blessed, sound

Jesus died.

Entreat dear children to rely

On that which brings the guilty nigh;

E’en to the blood of Christ to fly;

Jesus died.

Soon heaven shall raise the happy song,

Jesus died.

Which endless ages shall ‘prolong,

Jesus died.

fly virtue of that precious blood

Believers are brought nigh to God;

Oh, spread the glorious news abroad—

Jesus died.

Messages of God’s Love 5/10/1908

First Things First

WHILST young and still sowing wild oats, I formed a strong friendship for a young man who was engaged in the same business as myself. We had many things in common, but he seemed to have one overruling passion, which he often expressed in the words, “I must get rich first.”

When urged by one of the partners of the firm (who took an active part in Christian work in the district) to “seek the Lord while He may be found,” the one thought that pressed upon his mind was “I must get rich first before I become religious,” for, as he said, he had a vague idea that if he did not get rich before becoming religious he had little hopes afterwards.

When pressed by some of the “Goody-goody chaps” (as we called them) in the warehouse that “It is time to seek the Lord” (Hosea 10:12), he invariably cut them short with his uppermost thought, “I must get rich first.” He had one overruling desire—to become rich. For this he toiled, and to this end he devoted all his time and thoughts.

One Sunday he was passing a church and went in. The preacher’s text was, “SEEK YE FIRST THE KINGDOM OF GOD, AND HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS; AND ALL THESE THINGS SHALL BE ADDED UNTO YOU.” Matt. 6:33. These words went home like an arrow to his heart, and he resolved within himself that he would turn to the Lord and seek the salvation of his soul. But immediately afterwards he said to himself, “I must get rich first!” How many dupes has it led to find their portion in outer darkness, where, alas! they have “Time enough” to lament their mad rejection of offered pardon.

In the unsearchable ways of God he was led the following Sunday to go into another church. The minister gave out his text, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God,” etc. Struck with this remarkable coincidence, he once more began to think of God’s claims upon him, and of his soul’s deep need. These feelings were again awakened on a third occasion, when on another Sunday he was, in another town, and from the lips of a Third preacher God sent him the same message. But instead of recognizing the love of God in thus inviting him to possess himself of “Th. true riches” he became troubled, and even annoyed at being thus harassed. He could not but feel that God was speaking to him, but he would not be importuned. He wanted to “get rich first.” He was young, and there was time enough. He would think of God, but not just yet. So, to avoid the liability of being again warned to flee from “the wrath to come,” he resolved not to go to church any more. He saw God was inviting him to be saved, but he was not willing to allow eternal claims to come in between him and his cherished, desire.

My friend’s one great object was to become rich, and rich he became; but, as he said to me, his heart was as hard as a stone. He had rejected God’s offered mercy, and now God had left him alone to eat the fruit of his own ways.

I left the neighborhood, and after some time I was led, by God’s grace, to see my ruined condition, and to trust in Him whose precious blood has been shed on Calvary to make atonement for sin. The result was that unspeakable peace which the belief of the Gospel alone can impart. In my new found joy I remembered my old friend, and thought I would go and speak to him about his soul.

Arriving at home and inquiring for him, my mother said, “Did I not tell you that had gone out of his mind, and was in the asylum? The only thing he says when he sees people is ‘Seek ye first the kingdom of God’.”

The next time I visited my native town I found that my old friend had gone back to his own house; but he was the wreck of his former self. I called to see him, but the only thing he said to me, in an idiotic way, was “Seek ye first the kingdom of God,” and these were his last words when dying. They show how, to the very end, the grace which he had rejected was the one sad, hopeless thought which ever dwelt in his mind.

Friend, this is no fiction, and were the secrets of each heart known, the experience it reveals would perhaps be found no very unusual occurrence. It may be that you yourself have often listened to the thrilling and earnest entreaties of some faithful servant of Christ, as he told you of God’s love to a guilty world, as made known to us in the Gospel. God is holy, and cannot admit sin into His presence. His righteousness demands that sin shall be judged, and therefore, in His love to us, He has given His Son to stand in the sinner’s place, and bear the punishment due to sin. So that now He is sending a loving message of free pardon and eternal salvation to all who will believe in Christ and receive Him as their only all-sufficient Saviour. But how have you treated His message? Have you resolved to spend a little more time in the indulgence of those sins which caused His heart’s blood to flow? Such a thought shocks you, and ‘yet are you not, in act, saying this, when, after a solemn appeal to seek the Lord while He may be found, you reject His Word and say, “Time enough yet”?

Let this story be a warning to you, ere it is too late, and you find to your horror that you have rejected the last message you are ever to receive. If yon will not listen to the voice of love and of pardon, as God speaks to you even now, through this appeal; the next words you heat- from Him may be, “Depart from Me!”

Oh! we beseech you, as you value your soul, let God’s invitations be no longer neglected. “Now is the day of salvation.- “Him that cometh to Me,” saith the Lord, “I will in no wise cast out.” You cannot save yourself. Accept, then, God’s message of pardon. which is still freely offered. believe in Jesus, and then, God’s happy forgiven child, your bright prospect will be to dwell forever in That blessed abode which Ile has prepared for all who love and serve Him.

Messages of God’s Love 5/17/1908

A Remarkable Answer to Prayer

The incident I am about to relate is a true one, one that has been of great value to me in demonstrating the love and goodness of God.

It occurred in the southern part of Manitoba near the village of La belle, eighteen miles south of Winnipeg, in the month of July, 1901, while Father and I were spending the summer on a farm. In this section, the land is low and covered with long grass, and frequent stagnant pools where great numbers of mosquitoes swarm. They were so numerous that it was necessary to build a smudge for the cattle and in the house for ourselves and to wear nets over our faces in the field.

On this day we had just started a smudge near the door before sitting down to our midday meal, and had just given thanks to God for the meal before its, when we heard an awful roaring. We both sprang to our feet and upon looking out, saw our whole stack of hay one mass of flames. Now our shack and tent where we slept were on the north side of the stack and the wind was blowing strong from the south, driving the flames and sparks over both shack and tent.

We both became greatly excited, as was only natural, and were doing our utmost to put out the flames. However we found it of no avail and so tried to save some of the grain and household effects. Father had just started to carry a lot of heavy sacks of grain from the granary when I saw that all we could do would be of no avail. In the midst of the roar and excitement, I shouted to Father, “Look to God.” Praise be to His blessed name! He had His ear inclined even to poor wretched creatures like us, for no sooner had Father cried to God for help, than the wind blew from the north. Everything was saved, although the fire had burned some of the ropes on the tent, and even the hay right up to the edge of the tent.

Dear Reader, is not this an example of the poor, unsaved soul of today, trying with his utmost strength to save himself from eternal torment? Do be wise, if still unsaved, and in the midst of your worry and dread of eternity, halt and look to God this moment. Ask Him to save you, for, Christ, through the shedding of His precious blood has made atonement even for your sins.

As we did, so will you find Him with His ear inclined to hear your entreaties. He is just as willing to help you, for He is just the same yesterday, today and forever. In the Gospel according to John, the third chapter and sixteenth verse we read this precious promise, “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Do not delay, yesterday is gone, tomorrow never conies and today is the accepted time.; now, is the day of grace, and you may not live to see another sunrise.

Messages of God’s Love 5/17/1908

Ready to Pardon

HOW many there are who have a mistaken idea of God! They think that He wishes to judge, forgetting His own word, which says He is ready to pardon, and that judgment is His “strange work.”

Do you think that God likes to see a sinner perish? “As I live saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked” Ezek. 23:11. “The Lord is not willing that any should perish, but, that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9, and that surely includes you!

We know too, that this does give Him pleasure. Can you read Luke 15, and still doubt it?

We never read in God’s word that a repentant sinner was turned away. Take the thief, for instance. He deeply felt his guilt and confessed it. Did the Lord turn away from him and refuse his request because he was such a sinner?

Listen to His gracious answer, “Verily, I say unto thee, To-day shalt thou be with Me in paradise.” Luke 23:43. Ah! He does indeed “exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.”

But perhaps you are like the Pharisee (Luke 18:11) and think you are better than many you see around you. If that is the case, may God open your eyes to see your lost condition, that you may cry like the publican, “God be merciful to me a sinner.’ And then it will not be long before you see that Christ died, “the Just for the unjust.’’ 1 Peter 3:18.

A king once visited a prison with the intention of releasing one prisoner. He asked several of them why they were there; three laid the blame on others, and one on the jury; but one confessed that he deserved the punishment, and the king said to him, “You are the man I will release” so he let him go free.

Those who take that ground, and confess that they deserve punishment, receive God’s pardon and go free.

Messages of God’s Love 5/17/1908

The Invitation Accepted

A little face on a pillow,

The hospital nurse close by,

Watching a little sufferer,

Who, the doctor says, must die.

“What will he say?” thus she ponders,

“When he learns the sad, sad truth,

That death, with its icy finger,

Will bear him away in his youth?”

“But I must tell him now, dear lamb!”

And low she bends o’er the bed;

Soft and tender her tone of voice,

While the dreaded words are said:

“You are not so well today, dear,

And soon you’ll not need our love,

Home to Jesus you are going—

To His own bright home above.”

And she gazed on the fair young face,

But she read no sorrow there!

Only a look of glad surprise,

Relieving her heart of care.

Oh! that will be so nice,” he cried;

“And what do you think I’ll say

To the Lord who loved the children

And would not send them away?”

“Lord Jesus! when You were on earth,

You bid little children come,

.11id so I’m coming, coming soon,

To live in Your own bright home!”

Dear little ones, who read this tale

Do you know the love of God?

And have your sins been washed away

1 n the Saviour’s precious blood?

Only that blood can make you clean,

And fit for heaven above.

For all is pure and holy there,

In that home of light and love.

Messages of God’s Love 5/17/1908

Dora's Papa

THIS little girl’s name is Dora. Her papa is the captain of a fishing-schooner, and he has to go away on long trips. I suppose he has just come home and that Dora and her mother went down to the beach to meet him.

Dora is not like other little girls, for she plays with a boat instead of a doll. Her papa loves his boat and the water and Dora is like him. She puts the little boat, which you see in her hand, on the water and plays it is her papa’s boat, on a fishing voyage.

It must make the father feel very sad to go away from those he loves so much, but they need food and clothing, and he has to earn the money, with which to buy the things needed. This is the way he shows his love for them for we try to serve those whom we love. Dora is too young yet to know how much her father and mother love her, and how much they do for her each day but we know there is One who has done more for us, and who loves us more than father, mother or anyone else on earth, for “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13. “GOD COMMENDETH HIS LOVE TOWARD US, IN THAT, WHILE WE WERE YET SINNERS, CHRIST DIED FOR US.” Rom. 5:8.

Messages of God’s Love 5/24/1908

The Last Shilling Lost

IT was a cold, dismal-looking morning in the month of November; the winter had set in early; and the usually thronged streets of L. were not yet overflowing with the moving mass of men of business and men of labor, which, at a later hour of the day, might have relieved the eye of a looker-on by the variety it presented. The quiet of a great commercial town has always a something melancholy in it, arising from the association of ideas; its recent bustle and re-commencing hum giving to the immediate and brief pauses of temporary dullness some vague and indefinable connection with moments between the successive shocks of an earthquake, or the” loud howlings of the storm, when the sullen interval only silently announces the approach of additional violence. Mrs. S went to the window, looked out, sighed, and again sat down. The Bible was open before her; she had been reading in it; but there was a restlessness about her feelings which prevented her deriving all the consolation she otherwise might have done from the sacred page. Two children stood beside her, one six years old, the other four. “Mamma,” said the eldest,’ “James and I are very hungry, do let us have breakfast soon.” “I cannot, my dear boy,” she replied, “till you have brought me some little things from the next street; and I have been watching the weather all this time, that you might not go out till the rain had ceased. It, is now clearer; put on your cap, and hold fast the money which I now give you, till you ‘reach the shop. It is my last shilling?’

Little Francis liked very much to run mamma’s errands. He was an affectionate, lively child, and contrived to find amusement wherever he went, without losing much time, or forgetting any of his commissions. But he had one little trick, which, had he known how rude and disagreeable it is, he would never have practiced. Whenever he was running alone, he would draw a small stick across the iron paling of the areas he passed, just to have the pleasure of hearing the hopping of the stick, and the twanging vibrations of the metal; on this occasion he forgot his stick and ran off promptly, promising to be careful and expeditious. He passed one large house, then another, wished he had his wooden companion, tried his naked hand on the iron rails, shrunk from the cold, and then applied the edge of the shilling. Alas, alas! It pitched with force and rapidity into the area below, and disappeared. The house was without a tenant; no search could be made; and poor little Francis turned deadly pale, as it struck on his heart; his mamma’s last shilling was lost!

There is no sight under heaven so interesting as a Christian in calamity. Nothing proves so convincingly the value of religion, as the aids it supplies “when waves and storms go over the head.”

Mrs. S had long known the Gospel of Christ to be “the power of God unto salvation.” In early youth she had become a “partaker” of that “precious, faith,” by which, “without the deeds of the law,” we are “justified freely through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” Her family had been highly respectable—her prospects in life bright and prosperous—her mind intellectual and cultivated; but when she decided to choose, with Mary, “that better part,” everything else became tributary, and of minor importance. The first of her kindred to receive “the love in the truth thereof,” she “behaved herself wisely in a perfect way;” and by her conciliating yet devotional spirit—b:\, her prudent yet exemplary conduct—by her speech being “always with grace,” she was made instrumental in winning most ‘ of them to walk in “wisdom’s ways,” which “are pleasantness,” and in “her paths,” which “are peace.”

But after years brought affliction to purify the gold; through many a furnace of this kind had she passed; still she maintained her integrity—lost nothing, save dross—and sweetly shone with light reflected in successive nights of sorrow. Her husband feared God, but he had embarked a large capital in an unsuccessful business, became a bankrupt, gave up everything to his creditors, and was, at the period when my little tale commences, in a distant land, struggling with adversity, and remitting from time to time all he could earn to his beloved wife and children. He had left her in lodgings in L , six months before, with four children; now, two of them “were not,” for God had taken them. In rapid succession they were consigned to the grave, “taken from the evil to come.” And when the bereaved mother had paid the doctor’s bill and funeral expenses, she found herself possessed of so very little means of support, that nothing but the most rigid economy could make it sufficient to satisfy their urgent wants, till the morning to which I have adverted.

She had eaten little for some preceding days. The dear boys had just enough of bread and milk to keep them uncomplaining during the day before, and a small portion which they insisted mamma must eat, had been by her secretly abstracted, and carefully kept, almost as by presentiment, till morning.

Francis entered. “Oh, mamma, what shall we do?. I have lost the shilling.” He burst into tears, and was violently agitated. “My child,” said the heroic mother, clasping him to her heart, weep not, it cannot be recalled. The Lord will provide!” She placed him and his brother at their little table, produced the crust of bread and cup of milk, and drying the eyes of poor Francis, and kissing the cheek of little James, she retired to her bedroom, and carefully locked the door inside.

Reader! art thou taught of God to pray? Knowest thou the felicity of calling Him Father, feeling the relationship, and exulting in the deep consciousness of His paternal regards, when thou drawest near to a “throne of grace?” Have there not been seasons when thy rapt spirit, regardless of the cross that pressed, the difficulties that surrounded, the dark cloud that impending gave a sable hue to every earthly object, held communion with God; and . time. unheeded flew, whilst thou wast rolling thy every burden on the Lord, and feeling that He sustained thee? Then may thy eye penetrate the hallowed seclusion of that chamber, thy gaze rest on that Christian mother, thy heart imagine her soul-engrossing engagement. She had a Friend, and there she went to meet Him; that Friend was ever “swift to hear,” strong to deliver, good to redeem, “mighty to save.” “In six troubles” He had been with her, nor did He forsake her in the “seventh.” Mark her clasped hands, her bended knees, her look of humble, confiding, grateful adoration. She pleads the promises, and recounts how often they had been already fulfilled. “Let not my Lord be angry; I will speak again; deliver my children from perishing; send us help, and that speedily, for we are cast upon Thee.” Such was the prayer of one of the Saviour’s followers; as like Jacob she wrestled, like him she prevailed. Her petition was granted, and, as in the case of Solomon, more than she asked was given. Her soul was filled with “joy unspeakable.” No pain was felt, no grief endured; all was a delightful conviction that God was “for” her, and would, “in due season,” make “a way of escape,” and till then enable her to bear up, and “go forward.”

A loud knocking at the door at length aroused her. “Madam,” cried the mistress of the house, “do come down-stairs immediately; here is the strangest sailor-man I ever set my eyes on. He has got a book for you, and he won’t give it to no one till as how he sees yourself, just as if I could not carry the book without soiling it. He says he promised to give it to you, and he’ll do it, that he will; and I may keep my sixpense, he’s no porter.”

Mrs. S——-went to the sailor, received the book, and on opening it, found a letter from her husband, giving hopes of a permanent provision, and enclosing five pounds for the present needs.

Reader, whoever thou art, remember the words in Job. 22:21, “Acquaint now thyself with Him, and be at peace, thereby good shall come unto thee.” Seek ye the Lord; never rest till thy sins are forgiven, through faith in His blood, and thou canst claim the inheritance of the children.

“Delight thyself also in the Lord, and He shall give thee the desire of thy heart.” Psalm 37:4. Closely cleave to Him; faithfully serve Him; give Him thy heart in youth; keep it with all diligence; and “When thou passest through the waters, He will be with thee, and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee; when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.” Isa. 13:2.

Messages of God’s Love 5/24/1908

Seven Things Which Caused Great Joy

The birth of the Lord Jesus. Luke:10.

The sight of the star. Matt. 2:10.

The sight of the empty tomb. Matt. 28:8.

The sight of the risen Saviour. Luke 24:52.

The receiving of the gospel. Acts 8:8.

The news of many conversions. Acts 15:3.

The experience of love. Philemon 7.

Who of our readers will look up those scripture verses and copy them nicely, underscoring the words “great joy”?

Messages of God’s Love 5/24/1908

A Song of Praise

Written by a sick boy.

I am redeemed from Satan’s chain

I am redeemed from eternal shame.

I am redeemed!

I am redeemed through Christ’s own blood,

I am redeemed for eternal good:

I am redeemed!

I am redeemed by God’s own Son,

I am redeemed and rejoicing run,

I am redeemed!

I am redeemed, soon to be free,

I am redeemed, my song of triumph be;

I am redeemed!

Messages of God’s Love 5/24/1908

In the Lord

Will you search for these verses?

“Rejoice in the Lord!” Phil. 1:— Verse?

“Stand fast in the Lord!’’ Phil. 1: Verse?

“Salute the beloved Persis which labored much in the Lord.” Rom. 16:— Verse?

“Your labor is not in vain in the Lord. 1 Cor. 15:—Verse?

“In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord.” Eph. 2:—Verse?

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord.” Eph. 6:—Verse?

“Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.” Rev. 14:—Verse?

Messages of God’s Love 5/24/1908

The Sheepfold

THE last rays of the sinking sun have found their way into the fold; the sheep have left the green pastures to the darkness, and have been gathered into this place of safety.

They are tired and thirsty and seem to be enjoying the cool water, which their kind shepherd has provided for them.

Perhaps there was no water in the pasture where they have been all day, or perhaps it is not so good as that which they are now drinking. How much this reminds us of that good Shepherd, the Lord Jesus, who is gathering His sheep into His fold ere the darkness overtakes this world.

He says in John 10th chapter and 11TH verse “I am the good Shepherd: the good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.” .

And in the 14th verse of the same chapter He says: “I am the good Shepherd and know My sheep and am known of Mine.”

And just as the shepherd of these sheep has given them water, so the Lord Jesus gives life to all who will take it.

In Revelation 22:17, He says: “Let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” He also says to the woman of Samaria, “WHOSOEVER DRINKETH OF THIS WATER SHALL THIRST AGAIN. B U T WHOSOEVER DRINKETH OF THE WATER THAT I SHALL GIVE HIM, SHALL NEVER THIRST; BUT THE WATER THAT I SHALL GIVE HIM SHALL BE IN HIM A WELL OF WATER SPRINGING UP INTO EVERLASTING LIFE.” John 4:13,14.

But Jesus says there are other sheep which are not of this fold. Them also I must bring and they shall hear My voice and there shall be one fold and one shepherd.

Oh! what a blessed truth to know that He shall bring us, that is all those who have been redeemed by His precious blood, together and form one happy band, where we shall praise Him, for all His wonderful works. But, oh, how sad it will be for those, who are not safe in that fold, and the darkness overtakes them. But that time has not come yet, when the door of mercy will be closed.

Dear unsaved reader, I beseech to to enter into that fold; hear His voice and follow Him; now, while the Saviour is waiting and willing to receive you.

“Come unto ME all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28.

Messages of God’s Love 5/31/1908

The Faithful Slave

AN OLD colored slave gave me the following account of his past life.

“My master’s son gave me lessons every evening of all he had learned during the day. Thus I learned to read. Then we read, verse by verse, all through the New Testament. We learned we were sinners, and began to pray earnestly for the salvation of our souls. Through the grace of God, we were saved by the blood of Christ. Some time after we began to have meetings among the slaves, for prayer and reading the word, seeking to lead them to Christ. My old master was very angry when he knew his son had become pious. Under penalty of the whip, he forbade me to continue these meetings. I paid no attention to his threats, I preached the gospel every Sunday, and regularly every Monday, my master beat me with a terrible whip, so that my back was sore from Monday to Monday. It was with difficulty I went about my work, during the week. Thus a year and a half passed by. One Monday morning as usual, my master ordered my fellow slaves to strip me of my clothes, and tie me to a tree to be whipped. They obeyed him: He stood before me, a dark look on his face, the whip hanging by his side. His conscience was stirred up; he had come to a decided moment in his life.

“James,” he said, “your back is covered with wounds and scars. I do not know.where to strike you. miserable creature. How long are you going to keep on in this determined. way?”

“Master,” I replied, “I shall keep on as long as God gives me life to do it.” “Why are you so obstinate?”

I replied, “At the morning of the resurrection, after my poor body has been raised from the dust, I want to show, these marks as a proof of my faithfulness to God.”

.My master was silent. Then he told the slaves to untie the ropes that bound me, and send me back to my work, in the field.

Late in the evening he came to me.

“Sit down, James”, he said, “and tell me the truth. For a long time your back has been covered with wounds; you have to work very hard, and you are only a miserable slave. Tell me, notwithstanding all these trials, are you really happy?”

“Master,” I said, “I do not think there is a happier man in the world.”

He was silent for some time, then he said “James, you told me once that your religion taught you to pray for your enemies. Will you pray for your old master?”

“With all my heart,” I said. We both knelt down, and I prayed for him. From that time he would often come to me in the fields, always asking me to pray for him. At last he found peace through the blood of the Lamb. Then we lived as brothers in the Lord. On his death bed he gave me my freedom, asking me to preach the gospel as long as I lived.

I saw him depart from this life, with the assurance of meeting him in heaven. Since then I have met many Christian, whom I love with all my heart; but never have I come in contact with any to whom I was so closely united as my old master. Yes, I shall meet him in heaven.

This is a true story dear children. How faithful this slave was He rejoiced that he was counted worthy to suffer for the One who died for him. Many of you too, know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour. Will you. not speak a word for Him, and show by your ways that you love Him who first loved us?

Messages of God’s Love 5/31/1908

The Heap of Hay

‘Twas little Jenny, and she sat

Upon a heap of hay,

Beneath the shadow of a tree

And read the “Peep of Day.”

The blackbird sang his merry song

Above her curly head,

And hopping boldly at her feet

Was little robin red.

But Jenny did not care to hear

The merry blackbird sing,

Nor watched the robin redbreast smooth

His pretty shiny wing.

For bending o’er her book she read,

Of Jesus in the sky,

And how He left His glory bright,

For sinful “man to die.

The aged gardener working near

Would often look that way,

And wondered why Miss Jenny loved

Her reading more than play.

At length he close and closer drew.

And, “Little Miss,” said he

“You have a pretty book; I wish

You’d read a bit to me.”

And little Jenny’s eyes of blue

They sparkled as she said,

“I’ll read about the death of Christ,

And how He left the dead.”

“The death of Christ?” the gardener asked;

“First tell me, who was He?”

Said Jenny, “Don’t you know the Lord,

Who died for you and me?”

“Ah, miss, I never went to school,”

The poor old man replied;

“It seems as if I’d heard His name,

But nothing else beside.”

The tears came into Jenny’s eyes.

And, “Oh, how sad!” she said; “

What! have you not in all your life

The Holy Bible read?”

“No; I was never taught at all,”

The aged gardener sighed;

“A single word I could not speak

When both my parents died.”

“Oh, dear!” said Jenny;you like

come here every day,

And sit beneath this shady tree

And teach you, if I may.

“Come, sit beside me on the grass,

And let us now begin

To read about the Lamb of God,

Who took away our sin.”

With many thanks the gardener sat.

The gentle girl beside,

And heard her tell of Jesus’ love,

So boundless, deep and wide.

And when she closed her pretty book

He scarce a word could speak;

His heart was full of thought and tears

Were on his withered check.

That night, as lost in slumber deep,

The aged gardener lay,

He dreamed that holy angels bright

Stood round the heap of hay.

And often, as he worked next day,

Across the field he’d look

To see if little Jenny kind

Was coming with her book.

She came at last—that happy child—

At summer morning bright,

Plucking the king-cups in her way,

And pink-edged daisies white.

The gardener he had shaken up

Her soft and fragrant seat,

And swept a pathway through the hay

For Jenny’s tripping feet.

And down again they sat and read;

And all the summer long

He listened to that pleasant voice,

As sweet as wild bird’s song.

And when that lovely field was cleared

Of all the scented hay,

The gardener suffered none to move

Miss Jenny’s heap away.

The sunbeam struggling through the leaves

That clothed the elm-tree tall

Upon the light locks and the gray

Day after day would fall.

But when those leaves so deeply green

Looked yellow in the sun,

And down upon the grass below

Came floating, one by one.

The aged man and blue-eyed child

Sat talking there no more,

For stretched upon a bed of pain

He lay in suffering sore.

And now the dear, attentive girl

Would seek his darkened room,

With words and deeds of comfort kind

To cheer him in the gloom.

And he would talk of God and heaven

And Jesus as he lay,

And how he learned the love of Christ

Beside the heap of hay.

But weaker every day he grew,

For he was very old;

And in the churchyard he was laid

Before the winter cold.

There, often as she came from school,

Would little Jenny go,

And leave around the gardener’s grave

Small footprints in the snow.

And oftener still when spring came back

She sought the favorite spot,

And planted on the grassy mound

The blue Forget-me-not.

And thought upon that happy soul,

Safe in the realms of day,

Who learned of her the way to heaven

Beside the heap of hay.

“Be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Cor. 15:58.

Messages of God’s Love 5/31/1908

Bible Questions for June

Answers to Bible Questions for April

“I tell you, nay,” etc. Luke 13:3, 5.

“And then shall they,” etc. Luke 21:27.

“And thou shalt be,” etc. Luke 14:14.

“Said unto them,” etc. Luke 23:14
“And he said unto,” etc. Luke 23:22.

“And as it was in the,” etc. Luke 17:26.

“And were continually,” etc. Luke 24:53.

“Blessed is He that,” etc. Luke 13:35.

Bible Questions for June

Answers to be found from John chapter to the end.

Write the words following these, “Whom seek ye? They answered Him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them.”

Write the words which follow these, “They are not of the world, even as,”

Write the words which follow these. “I came out from God.”

Write the verse containing the words, “vine,” “Father,” husbandman.”

Write the verse containing these words, “Without Me ye can do nothing.”

Write the words following these, “How can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him,”

Write the words which follow these. “Go to my brethren and say unto’ them.”

Messages of God’s Love 6/7/1908

The Leap of the Shepherdess

FOR centuries past, many sheep have been shepherded in the Northern part of Italy, among the foot hills of the Alps. This indeed has been, and still is, a means of livelihood among the poorer classed, of whom there are many in that land. Men, women, boys and girls may be seen daily going forth with their flocks in the morning to the hills, and returning with them in the evening. These flocks will number somewhere from forty to two hundred sheep, and in some cases as many as three hundred.

Something over a century ago, a young shepherdess had, as usual, led her little charge to a lone spot near a huge, cragged rock, which rose almost perpendicularly from the valley below.

While patiently looking after the sheep and the lambs as they grazed on the fresh, tender grass, she saw three men approaching, whom she supposed were robbers who would carry off part of her flock, and who would perhaps do her harm. Depredations of this kind were very common, and her alarm was well founded. In terror the poor girl fled to the rock nearby. It was for her a moment of supreme danger; the robbers were pressing on behind, a fearful precipice was before her, and no human means of escape was at hand. What her thoughts were on reaching the rock, and whether she stopped for a moment to consider, as she gazed down those dreadful steeps to the valley far below, we may not say. But this we know, she leaped from that dangerous crag. And while in mid-air she was not alone; for the Lord, in whom she believed, had given His angels charge concerning her. Instead of being dashed on the jutting rocks, and her body mangled and broken, she was borne by invisible power safely, gently down, far down to the valley below. And, unhurt, she went to her home. This marvelous escape, we can well imagine, would be talked of far and wide, and had it happened in our day, the shepherdess would no doubt have become a noted heroine.

Sometime after this wonderful event our shepherdess was again on the hills in the same spot where she had so often tended her flock, but this time a girl companion was with her. They were, perhaps, engaged with the oft-repeated story which could never lose its wonder. However this may be, the girl who was with the shepherdess said to her, You cannot do it again! Alas for the pride that fills the human heart. The shepherdess said she could make the same jump again and she would do it, thus showing her friend that she was not afraid. And suiting the action to the word, she sprang from the rock.

Did the Everlasting Arms bear her in safety this time? No! The poor creature was so literally dashed to pieces” that it is said there was not a piece of her body larger than her ear left when she reached the valley below. How shocking!

The Lord had made known His loving care when the trembling girl was in a situation of great peril: He had given His angels charge concerning her, and they had borne her up so that she was not dashed against the jutting crags. And they had set her unharmed in a place of safety. See Psa.91:11, 12. But when her heart was inflated , and she would show what she could do, she was allowed to be dashed to pieces. How solemn the lesson! Those who know the Lord may safely trust Him, even in the hour of supreme danger. But woe to those who presume. When the three Hebrew men were cast into the burning fiery furnace, God preserved them not allowing the fire to have any power over their bodies—not even to the singing a hair of their heads. But should you presumptuously cast yourself into a burning furnace, the fire would be allowed to do its dreadful work. It does not do to tempt God. Let us learn then, always to trust—never to tempt the Lord.

The above incident is well authenticated. May it carry its lesson to every heart. Such an event as the wild leap of the shepherdess may not be hidden. God will get His glory out of it. And the second leap, taken in sheer folly, should carry its warning with it for all.

Messages of God’s Love 6/7/1908

The Driver and His Dogs

I SUPPOSE few of my readers have ever seen the Esquimaux or his dogs but very likely have seen pictures of them.

It is very interesting to see how these creatures work faithfully for their master, and they seem to be the creatures God has provided for that district to be the beast of burden, although they are only twenty-two or twenty-three inches in height. So you can understand why it takes so many of them to pull a small load.

When they are harnessed to the sledge, the dogs obey the movements of their leader who is always a faithful and experienced old dog. This is the only means of guiding the dogs, for each clog is simply tied to the sledge by a leather strap and the driver uses his voice and whip to direct them but the one in front, which is the leader, understands the sounds and the rest follow.

Another dog is used as a beast of burden as well as the Esquimaux dog, and that is the Newfoundland dog. It is employed during the winter months in dragging carts of hewn wood to their destination, and is very often unkindly treated by the very men who derive the most benefit from its exertion.

It is wonderful the provision God has made for man on this earth. Animals to help him in his labor. Silk, linen, wool and cotton and indeed everything in this world has been put there for man’s use in one way or another. Food in great variety, and at the beginning placed him in a garden already for him, and yet he disobeyed God and listened to the voice of Satan. Nevertheless, God so loved man that He sent His only Son into this world to enter into the place sin had plunged him, and that was death, and at a distance from God. So Jesus—God’s Son was given to die for man on Calvary’s cross and be forsaken of God there in man’s place. Then instead of leaving man here on this earth, where he had provided him so wonderfully with everything he needed, He takes him to the glory to share with the Lord Jesus all that belongs to Him.

Oh, dear reader, think of all that God has done for you, and let me ask you, are you rejoicing and thanking Him, not only for all His temporal gifts down here, but for the unspeakable gift of His own Son as a Saviour for you and through Him giving you all things? What praise and thanks should ascend from these hearts of ours, and how it calls for our whole lives to be spent to His honor and glory.

“PRAISE YE THE LORD: FOR IT IS GOOD TO SING PRAISES UNTO OUR GOD; FOR IT IS PLEASANT; AND PRAISE IS COMELY.” Psalm 147: 1.

Messages of God’s Love 6/7/1908

The Bible in Korea

A COLPORTEUR is a man who goes about the country selling Bibles and good books. He goes to all the scattered houses he may pass, and when he comes to a village, he goes from one door to another, trying to persuade people to buy his precious wares. It is not an easy life, I can assure you. Often he may travel all day and perhaps not sell one Bible, or even a tract. In many places the door is roughly shut in his face, or the dog set upon him, for few people have a desire to obtain the Word of God. You may guess that in heathen lands a Colporteur has an especially hard time, and needs to be a “good soldier of Jesus Christ,” brave and true and steadfast to his Master, to go on with such difficult and even dangerous work.

But sometimes he meets with hungry souls, who are longing for the bread of life, and what joy he has in ministering to them.

Here are two little stories I have lately heard of a Colporteur’s experience in that far away land of Korea. This man’s name was Kim, and he was a native of the country. One day he found his way into the village of Chang-Chu-Ton. He had no better reception here than elsewhere, but at last sold one Bible, and went on to other parts of the country. Four years passed by, when it happened that a stranger came to this village of Chang-Chu-Ton. He came to visit some of his relatives there. They thought he was peculiar in many ways, but when they noticed that he bowed his head, and remained in silence for some moments before eating, they. asked for an explanation, and listened in wonder as he replied, “There is a power that creates the grain, and gives the sun and rain to make it grow. This power comes from God. I am a worshipper of God, so I thank Him for the food before I eat, for I take it as a gift from Him.” With this as a starting point he went on to tell them about Jesus, who has been in this world, and has died upon the cross for sins, and is now seated at the right hand of God.

“What!” exclaimed his hearers at this point, “do you know about Jesus? We have a book about Him, but we need someone to explain it.”

Then one of the villagers went to his out house, and from where it was hidden above the rafters brought out a “Gospel.” I do not know which of the four. The Christian friend was begged to read and explain it to a number of the villagers. They listened with great interest and when he went back to his home, they continued to read and study it for themselves. This was the beginning of a work of God in Chang-Chu-Ton, and now there are only three houses in which the Word of God is not read and loved, and many of the villagers are true believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. “In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand; for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good.” Eccles 11:6.

Messages of God’s Love 6/7/1908

Morning Greeting

HOW very pleasant is the face of this young girl! I think we may judge by the picture that she has a kind heart. How fearless the little calf is! It seems to have been her habit, as she goes about her early morning work, to bring it some dainty green, and now it comes forward to take it. The geese follow close behind her, giving an occasional reminder that they do not wish to be forgotten. She always brings something in her basket for them, too. I think we may learn two very important lessons from this picture.

First, that we should show kindness and consideration to God’s creatures. Did you ever stop to think that every living creature belongs to the Lord? In Psalms 50:10, 11, it is written: “For every beast of the forest is Mine and the cattle upon a thousand hills. I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are Mine.” How careful this should make us in the way we treat His creatures. Would we not be very displeased if someone should abuse our dog or our horse or cattle? Don’t you think the Lord must be very grieved when we treat them cruelly? In many places of the Bible we read of the tenderness of the Lord, so much so that He would not allow the children of Israel to “seethe a kid in its mother’s milk.” “A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast.” Prov. 12:10. He cares for the wild beasts and the fowls. “He giveth to the beast his food and to the young ravens which cry.” Psalm 147:9. Think how very gracious our God is; when Jonah was angry with the Lord for not destroying Nineveh, the Lord asked him if he did well to be angry and said, “Should I not spare Nineveh, that great city, wherein are more than six-score thousand persons that cannot descern between their right hand and their left hand; and also much cattle?” The Lord remernbered the cattle. When Jonah preached’ to the people they repented and put on sack cloth and fasted and they also made the cattle fast and put sack cloth on them. It says in Psalm 148 that “beasts and all cattle; creeping things, and flying fowls,” shall praise the name of the Lord.

I think the second lesson we learn from this picture is cheerfulness and contentment. The girl in the picture looks very poor, yet has such a cheerful countenance. It may cost her a great deal of pleasure to have to go out to work so early. It is written in Prov. 15:13, “A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance,” and in 1 Tim. 6:6, 8, “Godliness with contentment is great gain. Having food and raiment let us be therewith content.”

We found first how the fear of the Lord will cause us to be kind to His creatures, and secondly, that if the Lord is our portion, we will be content with very little down here, and wear cheerful countenances, knowing that .”the Lord will provide.”

“BE CONTENT WITH SUCH THINGS AS YE HAVE; FOR HE HATH SAID, I WILL NEVER LEAVE THEE, NOR FORSAKE THEE.” Heb. 13: 5.

Messages of God’s Love 6/14/1908

Will God Write My Sins in His book?

WHEN I was a child I used to sing a solemn verse of a hymn. It seldom failed to fill my young mind with awe. I write it now for those young readers to whom I tell this story of a little girl, who feared lest her wicked deeds should be recorded in God’s book. This is the verse:

“There’s not a sin that we commit,

Or wicked word we say,

But in thy dreadful book ‘tis writ,

Against the judgment day.”

In a school that I know very well, the teacher has a book wherein is written the name of each scholar, a list of marks for various lessons and general behavior being added. It goes by the name of “The Mark Book.” and is considered a book of great importance by both teacher and scholars. This book, then, will give my young readers some idea of the one wherein God writes an account of our’ doings. One morning the teacher heard some little girls talking about the wrong-doing of one of their school fellows. The teacher looked very grave, and rising from her seat she went to the corner of the room where Lizzie was sitting. “Is all this sad story true?” she inquired. The child’s face turned crimson, and her eye fell as the teacher stood before her, but she made no reply.

“Lizzie,” continued the teacher, “I want you to tell me the truth. Remember, God is looking at you; He reads your heart. Did you indeed take the money from your mamma’s pocket?” “Yes, miss” faltered the child; “but I thought mamma would not miss the money, and I wanted to buy some candy.”

“Your kind mamma would not have refused you.” “I did ask her before I took the money, and she said she could not give me any this morning.”

“Lizzie,” said the teacher, “not only have you been guilty of theft, but you have willfully disobeyed your mamma. What a black list is written against you in God’s book this day.” “Has God put down in His book all that I have done?” said the surprised child. “Indeed He has, Lizzie.”

“Oh dear, I never thought of that. What shall I do? He will not wash away my sin unless I tell mamma, and I cannot tell her.” “My child, if you are really sorry, you will not mind telling your mamma. Now go to her at once, for whatever punishment she inflicts will be only what her love to you demands.” Afternoon came, and Lizzie again appeared in the school room looking very unhappy.

“Well, Lizzie,” said her teacher, “I suppose you have told your mamma everything.”

“No,. indeed, I have not,” the child replied. “ I tried to tell .her, but the words would not come. I know she will be so angry with me. How much I wish that I had not touched what did not belong to me.”

“My poor child, you are reaping the fruits of your sin, and you cannot feel happy till your conscience is clear. Your mamma must be told by you or by me. Consider the matter well, and let me know at the end of the lessons which of us had better tell her.”

As the children left the room at dismissal, Lizzie waited behind, and when the last lingerer closed the door she went up to the teacher, saying, “Miss——-I have made up my mind as to the right thing to do; I am going now to tell my mamma. And do you thing that God will rub my sin out of His mark book?”

Lizzie had caught hold of her teacher’s hand, and her large dark eyes were gazing into her face. “My poor child, what trouble you have brought upon yourself!”

“But,” repeated Lizzie. who was now weeping bitterly, “Miss——you haven’t told me; will God rub my sin out of His mark book?”

“Listen to what God says in His Word,” answered the teacher, “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.’ Isaiah 1:18. ‘Whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins.’ Acts lo:43. Dear child, can you trust Jesus? His blood cleanseth us from all sin. If you truly believe, God will not bring you into judgment for the sins, which are written in His book, from which book the wicked will be judged when He sits upon the great White Throne; but your name is written in the Lamb’s book of life.”

Lizzie was comforted by her teacher’s words and she ran to tell her mamma at once of her naughtiness, saying: “I deserve all the punishment she will give me.

Dear young reader, do you fear to stand before God when His books shall be opened? Is your name written in the Lamb’s Book of Life?

Messages of God’s Love 6/14/1908

Still Believing

IN a little town, a children’s meeting was being held. The room was full and the children listened attentively as the preacher told them of Jesus and His love.

“I wonder.” he said, at the close of the address, “ how many children in this room will trust Jesus, and believe in Him as their Saviour?”

Many little hands were lifted in answer to his appeal, and after a few more words the children left the hall to go to their homes.

Among them were little Frances, aged five, and her brother Herbert, nine years old. “Mother,” said the little girl, as they went into the house, “Mr. P. asked us tonight how many of us would believe in Jesus, so I held up my hand.”

“Did you, dear?” said her mother; “and what about you, Herbert, did you hold up your hand, too?”

“No mother.”

“And how was that, my boy?”

“Why, mother, I thought he meant who would trust Him for the first time tonight, and I trusted Him years ago,” was the child’s reply.

Little Frances was not able to write, but she very much wanted to send a letter to the preacher after he had gone home. Her mother asked what she would like to say to him.

“Tell him I am still believing in Jesus.”

Perhaps some of you who read this are older than these little ones. Can you say, “I trusted Jesus years ago?” Are you “still believing?”

“Oh,” you say, “I should like to be a Christian, but I am afraid I shouldn’t be able to keep on.”

It is not you who have to keep hold of Jesus, but Jesus who will keep hold of you. The Lord said to His Father in the 17th of John, “Those that Thou gayest Me, I have kept.”

If the Father gives you to Jesus, you are safe for eternity. He who loved you, and died for you, will never let you go.

“Oh, who’s like Jesus, Who died on the tree! He died for you, He died for me, He died to set poor sinners free. Oh, who’s like Jesus, Who died on the tree!”

Messages of God’s Love 6/14/1908

The Bible in Korea

HERE is another little story of how the Word of God can bring light into the dark hearts of the poor heathen. A missionary traveling in Korea, heard of some Christians who lived away up in the mountains. He writes as follows: “I procured a guide, and after a long and dangerous climb came upon a cabin sheltered just under the highest peak. The people live up there by growing a certain root that is very highly prized for medicinal purposes.

To say that my reception was cordial is to but feebly express the experience. This was the first missionary ever to come near them, and they were simply delighted.

They told me that they had been praying for years, that God would send then someone to teach them more clearly the Way of Life. They first became interested through a copy of St. Matthew’s Gospel an English missionary had given to the father when he went to have a look at the foreigner’s house in Longdo, eight years before. When they discovered that it was I who had given the book their delight knew no bounds, Though shut off from the rest of the world, in their high rocky home, the Light of Life had penetrated even to them, and they had accepted the Gospel in all its simplicity. How true is that verse, “Cast thy bread upon the waters, and thou shalt find it after many days.” Ecces, 11:1

Messages of God’s Love 6/14/1908

The Gorge

THE Gorge, which our picture shows, is a narrow strip of land in Victoria which is nearly level, and the sea comes in a way above the spot where the bridge crosses. When the tide comes in, it looks like a river flowing and rippling over the rocks but when the tide goes out it looks as if the river had changed its course and was flowing the opposite way. So one not acquainted with the place in looking down from that bridge at the time when the tide is corning in, and then when it is going out, would be very much surprised.

There is something this reminded me of, and that is how the grace of God is, flowing out to man at this time, but soon it will flow no longer, bringing its immense blessing with it, but the tide will turn and as it departs, judgment will be flowing over this poor world.

What a surprise that will be to many. They think not of the goodness and mercy of God now, and how He is beseeching- man to be reconciled to Him. Some treating it with indifference, others with contempt and others as a matter of course, but soon they will wake, up to the fact that the opportunity for them to be saved is over and they will find that the Lord has come and taken away His people and they will cry, “Lord, Lord, open to us.” Ah, the tide will have turned by that time and they must receive God’s judgment. How is it with you dear reader? Have you been looking at the blessing of God which many have received and yet never accepted Christ as your Saviour? Ah, remember that if you do not accept Christ now, the tide may turn at any moment and it will be no longer grace for you in offering Christ freely to you as a Saviour, but it will be His judgment.

“THE LORD JESUS SHALL BE REVEALED FROM HEAVEN WITH HIS MIGHTY ANGELS, IN FLAMING FIRE TAKING VENGEANCE ON THEM THAT KNOW NOT GOD, AND THAT OBEY NOT THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.” 2 Thess. 1:7, 8.

“Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousand of His saints, to execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.” Jude 14, 15. But “Behold, now is the accepted time, behold, now is the day of salvation.”

Messages of God’s Love 6/21/1908

What Think Ye of Christ?

Matt. 22:42

I THINK this is a test to believers, as well as those who are not. These are Christ’s own words. If we go on day by day in a heedless, careless way, giving no thought as to our walk or our associations, and not taking a firm stand for Christ, who gave Himself a ransom for us, does it not show that our estimate of this work on the cross falls far short of God’s estimate? It surely does. He has given Him a name above all others, that every knee to Him should bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Our faithfulness is very dear to the heart of our blessed Lord and Master.

Many seem to think that to remember the Lord in His death is all that is necessary, while the reading and prayer meeting are of little consequence, and so the seats are almost empty. I make a plea now particularly to the young Christians. In days gone by the seats were filled with the young as well as the old. How is it now? Two or three young persons are all that are out. Do you think, my dear Christians, that this is pleasing to the Lord? No, I am sure it is not. Does it not seem just as essential, if not more so, for the young to be there as learners, as for the older ones? If the Lord should tarry the Older Christians will depart to be with Christ which is far better, but who are to take their places? The young Christians, to be sure. How are they to do it, if they have neglected to fit themselves for it by learning of Him at the reading and prayer meetings? Oh, my dear young Christians, this state of things should not be. You are dishonoring the blessed Lord by your unfaithfulness. May the Lord bless this word of exhortation to your souls.

Messages of God’s Love 6/21/1908

Go and Do Thou Likewise

WHO is my neighbor?” This question was asked by a very poor boy, named William of his Sunday-school teacher.

“Why do you wish to know?” said his teacher with a smile.

The boy replied. “Because, I read in the 10th of Luke, 27th verse, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.”

What do you find so hard in this passage?” asked the teacher.

“Alas,” replied William, “ I know I do not love God as I should, and I so often forget. When I think of His goodness, and how He cares for us every moment of our lives; gives us food an:1 clothing, and above all, gave His only begotten Son to die for us, then, then—” “Then, what, my child?”

“Well, it seems to me we are obliged to love Him, at least I feel it is my duty to love Him in return, but the second part of the verse, I do not understand, ‘Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.’ “

“And, why not?” .

The boy was silent a moment then he continued; “I am going to tell you frankly, I did not know if I ought to tell, but I do want to obey God. My next door neighbor is a very bad man, he drinks and swears. His wife is often drunk, too, she quarrels with her husband frightfully, and they even send their children out to beg. Well! Am I to love these people? No, I can’t love them, even if I want to; at all events, I do not want to have anything to do with them.”

“Well, we will look into this a little closer. You think these words compel you to be intimate with these people, when the word of God tells us to keep away from bad company?”

“Certainly it does,” said William. “Can you quote me a passage?”

“Oh! yes,” said William, “we have just been learning this lately, ‘Evil communications corrupt good manners.’ I Cor. 15:33, and the other is, ‘Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil.’” Proverbs 4:14.

“That is correct and Scripture never contradicts itself. We are never to make companions of those who are going on in a wicked course. The Lord Jesus explains it Himself when the lawyer in Luke 10 asks the same question. The Lord tells him about the man who fell among thieves, and who stripped him of his raiment, leaving him half dead. The priest and the Levite pass by, but the Samaritan binds up his wounds, pours in oil and wine, puts him on his own beast, takes him to the inn, where He continues to care for him.

What is the answer the lawyer gives to the Lord, when He asks “Which now of these three, thinkest thou is neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves?”

And he said, “He that showed mercy on him.”

Then said Jesus unto him, “Go, and do thou likewise.”

“Does not this show who you should show the kindness of a neighbor to?” asked the teacher.

“Then it is any one to whom I can show kindness and love,” replied the boy.

“Yes,” answered the teacher, “these wicked people of whom you spoke are not your neighbors because they live next door to you, but, if you could in any way show them love and kindness, you would be showing in some measure the love the Lord Jesus has shown you when He loved you and died for you. He is the only One who has fully loved His neighbor as Himself, but you would be going directly against the word of God if you sought their company, and amused yourself with them. If, on the other hand, you saw them in misery and sickness, and went to visit them, telling them of Jesus and His love, helping them in any way you could, doing as you would be done by, if in the same position then, you would be proving by your actions that you love your neighbor.”

“But I have nothing to give,” said William. “My parents are poor, and we have only just enough. How can I carry out this word?”

“My dear child,” said the teacher, “you have often heard the proverb, ‘where there is a will there is a way.’ You know the parable of the talents. One servant received only one talent, and instead of using it for the Master, he hid it. You cannot do much towards caring for the sick, feeding the hungry, or providing them clothes, because you have not the time nor the means, but you can treat all with whom you come in contact in a kind, amiable way; you can set a good example to those around you, and since you know the Lord, you can pray for those in need, but remember, it is the love of God that is the motive. Just as His love flows into your heart you will be able to show love to your neighbor. If you are in prayer, and sincere before God in heart, it will rejoice you to bring others to that God of love, who expressed His love in such a wonderful way, giving His Son to die for lost sinners. Our neighbor then is anyone whom we can serve in any way. No matter how small the service, if it is done in faith and love, it will rejoice the heart of God, so you see how much anyone can do, if the heart is filled with love for Christ. You can lead others to Him. In His sight it will be far more than giving great gifts to the poor.” Thus spoke the teacher and William seemed satisfied.

Some years passed. William had a good position in a commercial house. Though his parents were poor, they had sent him to school regularly, he also went to night school so as to get all the information he could. He had always applied himself diligently.

At one time he showed an unusual activity. As soon as he reached home, he would take his little Bible from its stand and go out, knowing it was too early for night school. His father followed him one evening, feeling sure he must have an object in view, and where do my young readers think he found him?

In one of the rooms of a very poor little cottage where a boy lay dying. William was sitting by the bedside reading the Bible to this poor, afflicted boy, who could not read for himself. He had wanted to know who was his neighbor, and now he had found hini. He had wanted to show that great love the Lord Jesus had shown to him when He gave Himself for him, and the Lord had given him an opportunity to do it. He had found in reality, “Where there is a will there is a way.” William had heard of this boy and of how much he suffered and at the same time unsaved, and that he so much feared the thought of death. William pressed by the love of Christ, hastened to go to him with the water of life, and the thirsty soul of the dying boy drank in the words of eternal life, hearing them for the first time. In his last moments he was drawn by faith to that one who says, “Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out.” “He that believeth in me though he were dead, yet shall he live.”

“Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Thus William carried out what he had learned. He made use of the talent God had given him in his feeble way.

Dear readers, if you know Jesus as your Savior, go, and do likewise. If you have not yet been washed in the blood of Christ you can know nothing of what it is to love your neighbor in this way. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved,” is the word to you and then, like William you can lead others to Him.

“We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” 2 Cor. 5:8.

Messages of God’s Love 6/21/1908

The Pet Bird

ONE, two, three, four little children—two brothers and two sisters, and look at them so gentle and careful with their little pet bird, giving it something to eat and with such happy faces as they see the little thing enjoying the food; you might say, Surely they know something of the grace of God! We hope they do, and that my dear, reader may indeed learn a lesson from this peaceful and quiet scene.

Many boys and even some girls take delight in teasing animals, and watching them fight sometimes, and that is very wicked and is of Satan. He delights to see God’s creation groaning and suffering. It is what he has brought into this scene; but how different with the Lord Jesus—He relieved the sick, He fed the hungry and comforted the broken hearted; yea, last of all His gave His life that we might live. He suffered in our stead rather than have us suffer for our sins forever. I am sure that those who know the Lord Jesus and can say, “He died for me,” must seek to show that same grace and tenderness to all around them. Give relief to the suffering where you can; if you see two quarreling, seek to make peace. “BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS: FOR THEY SHALL BE CALLED THE CHIT&DREN OF GOD.” Matt. 5 9. It is what will characterize a child of God. Meekness, gentleness and a tender heart will all come as a result of knowing and enjoying the grace of God.

How is it with you, dear reader? Have you accepted and thanked God for the love He has shown towards you? If you have, be sure you seek to show this same love to others.

Messages of God’s Love 6/28/1908

Hymn of Praise

Nearer, my God, to Thee—

I cannot be;

Christ’s blood hath made me nigh,

Praise, praise to Thee!

Now blest in Christ Thy Son,

Thy love to Him my own,

This shall be still may song,

Praises to Thee!

Pilgrim and stranger here,

I journey on;

Upward my heart now turns,

Heaven is my home;

Thy love constraining still,

Henceforth to do Thy will;

Praises my spirit fill,

All praise to Thee!

Now, let my walk and ways,

More Clirist-like be;

Ever delighting in

His love to me:—

Till I shall see His face,

Owning Thy sovereign grace,

That brought me to this place—

Nearness to Thee.

Lessons, on desert sands,

Now taught by Thee;

Causing my heart to sing,

More praise to Thee!

Trials thus sent do bless,

Partaking Thy hOliness,-

Peaceful fruits of righteousness,

Bring praise to Thee.

Sweet is the blessed hope

Given us by Thee;

Glory with Him who died,

On Calv’ry’s tree!

Oh! what a song we’ll raise,

Singing His worthy praise,

When on. Himself we gaze—

And like Him be!

Messages of God’s Love 6/28/1908

Out of the Mouth of Babes and Sucklings Thou Hast Perfected Praise

DEAR children, how many times you have read in “Messages of Love” of very young children being brought to know the Lord, sometimes in very trying circumstances, showing the truth of the words He has given you.

The little account given here will, we trust, show you “the riches of His grace.”

Elizabeth was a little girl whose heart had been won by the grace and love of God at an early age.

The Lord Himself had so attracted her, she saw herself a lost sinner, and that there was salvation through Him, her peace, her faith, her confidence was never shaken.

The Lord prepared His little lamb for the terrible suffering through which she had to pass, and thus He glorified Himself through them.

Elizabeth was obliged to leave school when she was 9 years old. She regretted this deeply, but she was attached with the disease which took her home three years later. She did not develop as other children. Her body remained small, but it was not so with her mind. Gradually and silently the Lord was caring for her and preparing her for Himself. In the spring of 1904, after a very painful attack, the Doctors told her parents that the heart was affected and her cure hopeless. “She may have many such hard spells, and may succumb in one of them.”

From that day, Elizabeth knew how serious her condition was, but it caused her no sorrow, she trusted the Lord so fully, she knew Him as her own Saviour. She thought of all He had borne for her on the cross, and she had perfect peace. The summer was very warm and trying in every way to the poor little sufferer. Her cough was terrible, so hard, that the blood would rush up in her throat, and cause such excessive weakness; for hours after, she would be in fearful pain. But not a complaint ever passed her lips.

One evening, after one of these spells, her mother noticed she was very quiet; her eyes were fixed on the window.

“What are you thinking of,” said her mother.

“I am waiting,” said Elizabeth; “perhaps the Lord is going to come and take me.”

“Would you be happy to go with Him?”

“Oh! yes, happy when I think of myself, but when I think of you and the others, I am sad.”

Some weeks later after one of the same spells, a similar conversation took place, but at the end of it, she said, “Now, I am happy in every, respect, for you as well as for myself, for I know you will be happy to feel I am with the Lord, and He will comfort you.”

All sorrow was past, during the two and a half years that followed. She never expressed one regret at the thought of leaving this world or her loved ones. Her heart was filled with love for her Saviour, and joy at what she knew was awaiting her, when she would be with Himself.

During the year of 1905, there was a .change for the better, but in June, 1906, her condition became so much worse again; her spells became harder, and more frequent, but the thought of meeting her Saviour at any moment filled her with joy. It was agony for those who loved her so, to see her sufferings, but she would encourage them herself by saying, “The Lord suffered so much for me, ought I not to suffer a little for Him without complaining? What are’.my sufferings compared to His?”

Once when they were reading Luke 22 to her, she stopped them at verse 44, “And being in an agony, He prayed more earnestly; and His sweat was, as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.”

A shudder passed over her as she thought of her Saviour sweating drops of blood. “Why should I not be happy to suffer a little for Him here when He suffered so much?” and her face, filled with anguish at the thought of her Saviour’s sufferings, became calm and serene. At another time she expressed a desire that the Lord might take her without such awful suffering, but a moment after she said, “Lord, forgive me. I have neither to ask, nor to choose. If I suffer it is because it is Thy will. I know how Thou hast loved me, Lord Jesus. Thou doest all things for our good.”

Through waves, through clouds and storms,

He gently leads the way,

We wait His time, so shall the night,

Soon end in perfect day.”

One day after her father had read part of John 10 and the 23rd Psalm to her, he spoke of the good Shepherd and how secure the sheep were in His hand, for time and for eternity. Elizabeth was particularly happy, a sweet childish look of perfect trust came over her face, she said, “I am carried in the arms of the good Shepherd, how precious is His love! I feel I am the particular object of it.” The power of that love and grace so filled her heart, that she felt pressed to speak of Him to all those who came in contact with her. Days passed, though it seemed as if she could not be worse, still the disease progressed, and pain increased. What weeks of suffering, days and nights without any intermission or rest. We repeat it again, the Lord, in a most wonderful way, sustained this dear child, enabling her to bear her suffering without .a murmur. “If He keeps me waiting, He has a purpose, He never fails and He never deceives me.” Once when in terrible agony, yet still quite conscious, a sigh escaped from her.

“Mother, why must I suffer so?” “The Lord Himself will tell you, my dearie” and an expression of assurance and joy came over her face, as she said, “Yes, very soon.”

The Lord took her to Himself, 16 hours after. She asked them to pray and sing; her face showed the intense physical suffering she was passing through, it was impossible. to describe it, but her words were full of peace and confidence.

What a day that was, my dear young friends. Picture to yourselves that little sufferer, her bed surrounded with relatives and Christian friends, weeping yet praising God by singing hymns, their hearts were full. Had you been there, you could not have helped feeling the Lord’s presence, for without Him they would have been crushed with sorrow. Dear Elizabeth passed away in a last and terrible spell of suffering. There was a suppressed cry of thankfulness from all to the Lord for gathering His tender lamb to Himself; by His pure grace, her heart had sighed for Him, during all those days of suffering, and now the end had come, she is with Him, in eternal rest.

Now, dear young readers, this account has been very much shortened; our object is not to fix your attention on little Elizabeth, but only to glorify the wonderful grace and power of the Saviour, shining out in such a poor, feeble, little body, and may you appreciate more and more the privilege of being brought up in the fear of the Lord. Remember, if you are thus privileged, so much greater is your responsibility. Your dear parents have prayed for you from your birth till now. You have been set apart for Him, You have been taught that “there is one God, and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all.” 1 Tim, 2:5, 6. Even for the little ones. Will you not answer to His love? There will be joy in heaver, and joy in your own hearts, as well as in those of your dear parents, who have prayed without ceasing for you.

Messages of God’s Love 6/28/1908

Faithful in That Which Is Least

Be not looking to do some GREAT thing in order to serve God; but seek grace from Him that, in the many LITTLE things which make up your life, you may so and that the Lord shall by and by say to you, ”Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Messages of God’s Love 6/28/1908

Bible Questions for July

Answers to Questions for May

“I am the resurrection,” etc. John 11:25.

“I am the bread of,” etc, “ 6:35

“E am the light of the,” etc. “ 8:12

“I am the door,” etc. “ 10:9

“I am the bread which,” etc. “ 6:41

“I am the good Shepherd,” etc “ 10:11

“I am the Son of God,” etc. “— 10:36

Bible Questions for July

Answers to be found in the first fourteen chapters of the Acts.

Write the verse containing the words, “confirming the souls of the disciples.”

Write the verse in which these words are found, “silver and gold.”

Give the verse containing these words, “God was with him.”

Write the verse containing these words, “gazing up into heaven.”

Write the verse containing these words. “looked up steadfastly into heaven.”

Write the verse in which these words are found, “white apparel.”

Write the verse following these words, “laid Him in a sepulchre.”

Messages of God’s Love 7/5/1908

A Chain of Blessing

The First Link

NOT long ago I was reading to a little fellow of six, a list of the things which a young prince once said he would not allow when he became king; amongst others, he said he would not permit any sin in his kingdom.

“Ah! but” interrupted my little friend, “he will find that he has got sin inside of him, and what will he do about that?”

Yes, that is the question: what is to be clone about that? It is not very pleasant to find out that we all have sin inside of us, that we are sinners everyone, but this discovery is the FIRST LINK in the chain of blessing.

The Second Link.

A lad was sitting about at the close of a Gospel meeting, and I said to him, “Do you wish to speak to me, my boy?”

“Yes,” he said, “I want to tell you’ that I have trusted in Jesus tonight.”

“Oh, I am glad to hear that,” I said, “but what did you say to Him?”

I said, “I am a poor sinner, Lord,” was his happy reply.

Well, there you have the SECOND LINK. The first is to find out that you are a sinner, and the second is to tell it to Jesus, for He is the only One who can settle so great and terrible a question as that, and He can settle it because He came into the world to save sinners, big and little.

The Third Link

“I’m saved tonight, sir,” said a little negro boy to me after a Gospel meeting in Jamaica.

“Oh! how do you know that?” I asked. “It was the word that you spoke,” he replied.

“Tell me what word.”

“ ‘If thou shalt confess with, thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead,. thou shalt be saved.’ While you were speaking I believed in my heart, and when you finished I told Tommy about it,” was his bright answer.

Here we have the THIRD LINK in the chain of blessing. Bring your sin and need to Jesus, believe in Him in your heart, and then confess Him with your mouth—that brings salvation, and God’s salvation is well worth having.

The Fourth Link

“I do wish everybody would trust in Jesus and be saved,” said a girl who was rejoicing in the Saviour herself.

“Well, you will never be afraid of speaking about Him, will you? and then, perhaps, through your words, someone may believe in Him,” I said in reply. And I found that she was not ashamed of speaking about her Saviour whenever she had the opportunity, and her desire for, the salvation of others made her very bold. She invited people to the meetings, too, and had the joy of seeing some of them trust in the Saviour.

What a precious link in the chain is this, to be here in a needy world to confess the Saviour’s Name and win others for Him. This brings me to the last link in the beautiful chain.

The Fifth Link

Jesus said, “Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.” (Matt. 10, 32). “Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess Me before men, him shall the Son of Man also confess before the angels of God.” (Luke 12, 8).

What a glorious prospect for every confessor of Christ. Heaven with all its joys has been secured for all who trust in Jesus’ precious blood.

Messages of God’s Love 7/5/1908

Mary Jones and Her Bible

Part I

NOT very long ago, we had a story in “Messages of Love,” of a little Mary who was fortunate enough to own two Bibles, but the Mary I am going to tell you about today, had no Bible, nor had she any money to buy one. Mary Jones was born in the little country of Wales, in the year 1784. Her father was a weaver, and his big loom filled up a large corner of the cottage, but there were not a great many other things to put in the kitchen, so that did not matter very much. Jacob Jones and his wife Molly, were certainly very poor and they both had to work hard to “make two ends meet” as people say, but though poor in this world, they were possessed of great riches in the sight of God, for by faith in the Lord Jesus, they were children of God, and “if children, then heirs; heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ” Rom. 8:17. Is not that a portion worth possessing? As soon as their one little child could understand anything, Jacob and Molly delighted in teaching her all they knew about the Bible, and Mary would listen with the greatest pleasure to all the beautiful Bible stories, Abraham and Joseph. David, Elijah and Daniel, were like old friends to her, and she also learned to repeat many verses, and by the time she was eight years old she had learned nearly all that her parents could teach her.

One day she said to her mother, “I wish I knew ever so many verses.”

“How glad I should be if your father and I could teach you more,” said her mother; “but its years since we learned, and we’ve got no Bible, and our memories are not as good as they used to be.”

“Why haven’t we a Bible, Mother?” asked Mary.

“Because Bibles are scarce, child, and we’re too poor to pay the price of one. Still, precious as the Word of God would be in our hands, more precious are its teachings in our hearts. I tell you, my little girl, they who have learned the love of God, and who are trusting the Saviour for their pardon, and know that they have eternal life through Him, have learned The greatest truth that the Bible can teach.”

“Yes, mother,” said little Mary, “I dare—say that is all true, but every time I hear something read out of the Bible, I long to hear more, and when I can read, sit will be harder still.”

Perhaps the children who read this little story are surprised that a girl of eight years old had not even begun to learn to read, but they must not forget that in the mountainous country where Mary lived, there were very, very few schools, and there was not one for miles and miles around her home, I wonder whether you are all as anxious to learn as she was, and for as good a reason?

“Oh! if I only could learn to read,” she exclaimed one day, to a kind friend, Mrs. Evans, who was visiting them. “If I only could, I would read all the lovely Bible stories myself and not trouble anyone to tell them.”

“You forget we have no Bible,” said her mother, “and we can’t afford to buy one either, they are so scarce and dear.”

“Yes” replied Mrs. Evans, “it’s a great want in our country; the scarcity of Welsh Bibles is getting to be spoken of everywhere. Even those who can afford to pay for them get them with difficulty, and the poor can’t get them at all. But, my dear little girl,”- she added, turning to Mary, “remember as soon as you can read, you shall come to our farm whenever you like, and read and study our Bible. Would it be too far for you to come?”

“It’s only two miles, that’s nothing!” said sturdy Mary, looking down at her strong little bare feet.” I’d walk further than that for such a pleasure, ma’am, at least if ever I do learn to read.”

“Never mind little woman,” said kind Mrs. Evans, “Remember, Mary, when the multitude that waited on the Saviour were hungry, the Lord did not send them away empty, though no one saw how they were to be fed, and He’ll take care you get the ‘bread of life’ too, for all it seems so unlikely now. Good bye, and God bless you, my child,” and Mrs. Evans got into her little pony cart and drove away. Mary watched her, till she was out of sight, then she clasped her small brown hands, and her thoUghts formed themselves into a prayer something like this, “Dear Lord, who gayest bread to the hungry folk in the old time, and did’st teach and bless even the poorest, please let me learn, and not grow up in darkness.”

Messages of God’s Love 7/5/1908

Peace and Stubbornness

BESIDE the silvery stream and under the shady trees, the old cow wisely goes to get her refreshing drink; but the little calf, willful and obstinate as usual, has to be held in with a rope and bridle. It has not the sense of the old cow, and so altogether makes trouble for itself and those who take care of it.

As we look at them we might say what a lesson for ourselves in this life. How like that calf, we often arc in our actions. We want our own way and we are unable to tell what the end will be. If we go on according to our own thoughts, we are sure to end in sorrow, but if we submit to what God has given to us in His word, we will be led into the shady, cool retreat and have His blessing.

The Scripture says, “Good understanding giveth favor, but the way of transgressors is hard.” Prov. 13:15.

Disobedience to parents would make one a transgressor and will bear bitter fruit.

Disobedience to the Word of God in any connection will bring a bad result; so let all ever remember “the way of transgressors is hard.”

We need the wisdom which is from above and the way to get it is to believe in the Lord Jesus as the One whom God has sent to die for us that we might escape the judgment for our sins and have them forever washed away. If we believe thus in Him, we may be very conscious of our lack of wisdom but again the Scripture says, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” James 1’5.

Then again, “THE WISDOM THAT IS FROM ABOVE IS FIRST PURE, THEN PEACEABLE, GENTLE, AND EASY TO BE INTRE A.TED, FULL OF MERCY AND GOOD FRUITS.” James 3:17. Let us each one seek for the paths of peace and gentleness and through the grace of God put far from us the stubborn will and disobedience.

Messages of God’s Love 7/5/1908

On Your Knees

ALL of my dear young friends who read the “Messages of Love” are no doubt going to school. If they did not, they could not read it. Now there are things in school, as well as in the house, which are difficult to learn, hard to take up with. I would therefore remind you that in every difficulty, yea, in all things, you may take the matter to God in prayer, seeking help and wisdom. He can and delights to give you both.

Bring God into your work, or your trouble, and you can easier get your lessons, and do your work, with more pleasure and satisfaction.

One day, a servant of the Lord was much downcast on account of his continued labor and so little result. He took a walk, following a narrow lonely path to the timber with a heavy heart.

Along by the wayside, he met a man hard at work breaking rocks, which you must know is hard work. After greeting the man he addressed him thus: “Well, Peter, hard at work, are you?

Don’t you ever sigh at this work of yours? You surely find rocks that are hard to break.”

“You are right, sir,” was the answer, “such stones” I find not a few, but I have a way of getting at them that the hardest of them Ain have to give way. I go down on my knees as you see, and the work becomes easier and with better results. Yes, this doing of one’s work on one’s knees, I tell you, ‘tis a wonderful thing!”

The minister understood that old Peter would remind him to pray more to God and thus bring down all help and blessing from above. He did not think that because he prayed to God, that there was no need of his working; no, he prayed and then he used his mallet, he dealt hard blows just because he had been praying. He wanted to manifest his confidence in God by diligent work.

Therefore, dear children, pray to the Lord in heaven that He may bless, keep and sustain you. But be diligent and faithful in your .work. “Ask and ye shall receive.” But first of all you must give Him your hearts; receive and confess Jesus as your Saviour; put your whole trust in Him and listen to His voice; and He will lead you in the “paths of righteousness for his Name’s sake.”

It is a happy thing to belong to the Lord Jesus and to be one of His lambs. The strong hand of God the Father, and the faithfulness of the Shepherd will guide and protect and keep such on their journey through this world. Therefore take heed to my words and turn to God; go to Him with your sins, your cares, your burdens, through faith in Him become one ofHis, and thus be blessed for time and for eternity!

“BLESSED IS THE MAN THAT FEARETH THE LORD, THAT DELIGHTETH GREATLY IN HIS COMMANDMENTS.” Psalm 112:1.

Hear His gracious invitation—

“I have life and peace to give—

I have wrought out full salvation:

Children, look to Me and live.”

Messages of God’s Love 7/12/1908

Oh, Missus, Is We Free?

T the close of the terrible civil war which raged so long between the North and the South, President Lincoln issued his famous Emancipation Act, thereby, liberating every slave in the Republic.

Multitudes of the poor negroes were unable to read, and slave owners were not particularly desirous that they should know that they were free.

A story is told of Miss Sarah Smiley, a well-known Christian worker, who, whilst travelling through the Southern States, shortly after the conclusion of the war, entered a country inn, in an out-of-the-way place, to obtain rest and refreshment. She was ushered into a dirty, untidy room, by a colored woman, who appeared the very picture of listlessness and indifference. Miss Smiley said, “Aunty, I’m from the North, and you know we Northerners set you people free and you ought to make us comfortable when we come.”

After a short absence from the room, Miss Smiley returned, and was surprised at the changed aspect of affairs. The room had been swept and dusted, and “aunty” looked a different person. No longer indolent, and apathetic, she moved about like a young girl. Advancing to Miss Smiley, she said, “Oh, missus, is we free?” “Of course you are,” said Miss Smiley. “Oh, missus, is you sure?” “Certainly. Did you not know it?” “Well, we heard tell we was free, and we asked massa, and he, ‘lowed we wasn’t, and we went to the col’nel, and he said we would better stay with ole massa; so we’ve just been off and on. Sometimes we hoped we was free, and sometimes we think we isn’t. Now, missus, if you be sure we is free, tell us all about it.” Miss Smiley told of the war; of the defeat of the South, and of President Lincoln’s Emancipation Act. “Aunty” listened with breathless attention, her eyes lighting with a new fire as she learned from Miss Smiley’s lips that she was no longer a slave. She heard, believed, and rejoiced in the glad tidings. and walked from the room a free woman. saving, “I’se free. I am not going to stay with ole massa any longer.”

One cannot help feeling deeply touched at “aunty’s” earnest request, “Now missus, if you be sure we is free. tell us all about ,it.” Would that “white” slaves were as eager to hear the story of the great “Emancipation Act,” issued from the court of heaven, as this negress was to hear of President Lincoln’s proclamation! At one time or other we were all slaves of sin and Satan; though, thank God, some of us are so no longer—we are free men in Christ. We tried to free ourselves from our galling yoke, but failed. We sought to break the bonds that bound us, but were utterly unsuccessful. What man could not do, Christ has accomplished.

“He breaks the power of cancelled sin; He sets the prisoner free.

His blood can make the foulest clean; His blood availed for me.”

On the Cross, Christ bore sin’s penalty. There He paid the ransom price for our soul’s deliverance—”Who gave Himself a ransom for all” (1 Tim. 2:6). That ransom was accepted. Because of the atonement made by Christ, liberty to the slave, deliverance to the captive, pardon to the guilty, is proclaimed. “Be it known unto you, therefore, men and brethren, that through this Man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins, and by Him all that believe are justified from all things” (Acts 13:38-39). On the ground of Christ’s ransom, you are welcome at this very moment, to life and liberty. “All that believe are justified from all things.” Not only is he who believes pardoned; he is justified; obtains eternal life, and will never perish ( John 3:16-36; 5:24).

“All thy sins were,laid upon Him;

Jesus bore them on the tree.

God who knew them laid them on Him,

And believing, thou art free.”

“Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32), Has the reader believed on the Lord Jesus and become free? “If the Son, therefore, shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed” (John 8:36). Or has he been imagining that Christ has not done enough? Has he been waiting to feel that what God says is true? Has he been “off and on;” sometimes thinking that he is saved, and at other times that he is not? Sometimes believing the “Col’nel”—Satan—-and therefore doubting the Word of the living God? Why not believe the “royal proclamation” of Acts 13:38-39, and rejoice in the liberty that Christ alone can give, and say, like old “aunty,” “I’se free. I am not going to stay with ole massa any more”?

If, however you do not believe the glorious Gospel of God’s grace, the glad ‘tidings of great joy, you are guilty of the awful sin of calling God a liar! “He that believeth not God hath made Him a liar, because he believeth not the record that God gave of His Son: and this is the record that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in His Son” (1 John 5:10- 11). Believe then on Him who suffered on the Cross of Calvary, that you might be redeemed from the slavery of sin and Satan, from the dominion of death and hell, “and thou shalt be saved.”

Messages of God’s Love 7/12/1908

Mary Jones and Her Bible

Part II

I HAVE told you how little Mary earnestly prayed to the Lord, that He would open a way for her to learn to read, that she might be able to read His own precious Word. God heard Mary’s prayer, and in His own time He answered it, but she had to wait a long time. God does not give us all we ask for, the minute we ask Him. We should never learn patience if He did and patience is a wonderful lesson to learn. In the Epistle of James we read, “Let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” So Mary waited on day after day, doing the work that came to her hand, sometimes it was outdoor work, for she had the hens to look after and the eggs to search for; the bees to tend and the little garden to weed, and sometimes it was indoor work, sweeping and dusting, and washing dishes, for Mary’s mother had to help a great deal in the weaving, and so left many things to her little daughter, which she had not time to do herself. But at last the long waiting time .came to an end and one evening when Mary was ten years old, her father came in from the neighboring village, with a beaming face, and soon the good news came out. A school was to be established, and only two miles from their little home. Many of the little boys and girls who read this, know what it is to have two miles to walk to school. I wonder whether they are all as eager to go as this little girl, and I wonder too, whether they are as thoughtful for their mothers, as she was. After her first exclamations of delight, on hearing the glad news, she said slowly, “But, mother, can you spare me?”

“Spare you, indeed I will,” said the kind mother; “though I can’t deny as how it will be difficult for me.”

Mary put her arm around her mother’s neck and kissed her. “Dear, good mother!” she cried. “But I don’t want you to work too hard. I’ll get up an hour or two sooner, and do all I can before I go.” And this was no empty promise, day by day, Mary got up early, did her work; and then started off to school. No one could find any fault with the way her work was done at home or at school. And what a delight it was to the bright eager little girl to be able to learn. In a very short time, she had mastered the difficulties of reading and writing, and soon could help the younger and more backward children with their lessons.

Now came a new joy. A Sunday-school was begun, and the very first Sunday that children were taught there, behold our little friend, as clean and fresh as soap and ester could make her, and with bright .eyes and eager face, showing the keen interest she felt, and her great desire to learn all she could of God’s own Word.

That evening after service in the little meeting house, as the farmer’s wife, good Mrs. Evans, was just getting into her pony cart, she felt a touch on her arm and a sweet voice said, “Please, ma’am, may I speak to you?”

“Surely, my child,” replied Mrs. Evans, “what have you got to say to me?”

“Two years ago, please ma’am, you were so kind as to promise that when I learned to read, I should come to the farm and read your Bible.”

“Yes, I remember,” answered Mrs. Evans, “and can you read now?”

“Yes,” said Mary, “and now I -am going to Sunday-school, and shall have Bible lessons to prepare, so may I come on Saturday, when I have a half holiday, and learn out of your Bible?”

“Indeed you may,” was the kind reply, “and may the Lord make His word a great blessing to you!”

And Mary went home, with a heart overflowing with joy and thankfulness to God, who had heard her childish prayer. and had now given her the desire of her heart. Surely she might have said with the Psalmist, “The law of Thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver.” Psa. 119:72.

“‘Tis written, Man shall not live alone.

By the perishing bread of earth;

Thou givest the soul a richer food

To nourish the heavenly birth.”

Messages of God’s Love 7/12/1908

The Balloon

IT is a strange and uncommon sight to see a balloon sailing; through the sky; so we need not wonder at the farmers stopping their work to gaze at it as it glides along as fast as the wind can carry it, passing in and out of the clouds.

A stranger thing than that will one day take place in the clouds, a thing that has never taken place before, and will never take place again. All who believe in the Lord Jesus will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and then they shall be forever with the Lord. (1 Thess. 4:15-18.) The unbelievers will be left behind, but they will not be standing gazing as these farmers are doing, for it will all take place in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, (1 Cor. 15:51-58) so it will be done before they notice. They may miss the Christians, and if they were religious, they will cry, “Lord, Lord open to us,” but only to be reminded of that word “I know you not.” (Matt. 25:1-13.)

I would like to ask you, dear reader, Where will you be when the Lord descends from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God? Will you be among those who will be caught up, or will you be among those who will be left behind for judgment? You need not be among the latter, for all that is required of you is to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the One that God has sent to die for the sinner, to enter into the awful results of sin—death and separation from God. But if you will not believe that He is the One God has sent for you, you must bear the awful results yourself for your sins. Dear reader, if you have not yet believed in the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, I beseech of you to do so now. He may come at any moment and if you are not His when He comes, you will not get the opportunity to be saved after that, for the Scripture says, “GOD SHALL SEND THEM STRONG DELUSION, THAT THEY SHOULD BELIEVE A LIE: THAT THEY ALL MIGHT BE DAMNED WHO BELIEVED NOT THE TRUTH.” 2 Thess. 2:11, 12. If you are still an unbeliever after reading these lines you will be without excuse in that day.

Oh, come to Jesus, sinner, come,

Secure a place in heaven,

That blessed home is filling fast, F

or you a place is given.

Oh, come, and don’t delay!

Oh, come, and don’t delay!!

For mercy’s day will soon be past,

Oh, come, acid don’t delay!!!

Oh, sad if thou should’st be too late,

Arise and come to Him,

A loving Saviour you will meet,

And cleanse you from your sin.

His blood can wash the vilest clean,

Oh, come, confess thy sin;

A full salvation, vast and free,

Through Christ the Lamb once slain.

Just as thou art with sin defiled,

Wait not to be improved,

He only, can your load relieve,

Oh, haste be not deceived.

The Spirit and the bride say come,

O, sinner, ‘tis for thee;

A Saviour and a home above

To thee is offered free.

Messages of God’s Love 7/19/1908

The Winning Side, Or, Who'll Be On My Side

I AM sure most of my young boy friends will have played at football many a time. Well I remember hearing an incident which happened where a lot of lads were gathered together after school hours for the purpose of having a game. .

One of their number,. Tom by name, was a splendid player, and his team nearly always won; so when they all gathered together, Tom shouted out—

“Who’ll be on my side?

Now lads, who’ll be on my side?” And oh, you should have seen the rush: they all wanted to be on his side, because they knew who would win, and of course they all wanted to be on the side that won; each one shouted above the other—”Pick me, pick me, I’ll be on your side,” and all over the field you could hear these words —”I’ll be on your side, pick me.” Oh how eager they were!

After a lot of pushing and argument and such like, Tom got his chosen ones together, and told them that if they were to play for him, they would not have to be afraid of kicks and rough usage, because he meant to win the day.

The game was started and went on, and Tom’s players, urged on by himself, played splendidly, which ended in a complete victory for them.

Now, dear children, you will have witnessed many a scene such as this; but why have I related it to you, you ask. Ah! it is because it reminded me of another Person, who wants all you boys, yes, and you girls too, to be on His side, And who do you think that is? I fancy I can hear your answer—”JESUS”—yes, you know the story well. Your dear Sunday-school teacher has told you Sunday after Sunday about that Blessed One, and has urged you week after week, to come to Jesus, but is it not true that you have put it off? Satan has been whispering to you. and saying “You are far too young, there is plenty of time yet, wait till you are a bit older, and then come to Jesus;” but what does God, in His word, say? listen: “Remember NOW thy Creator in the days of thy youth;” and again, “Behold NOW is the day of Salvation.” But what I want to ask you is —will you not come to the SIDE OF JESUS now, even while you read this little paper? because, remember,

His is the Winning Side

and I know none of you want to be on the side that loses. Therefore, I would impress upon you, that if you have never come to Jesus and accepted Him as you,. own personal Saviour, you are on the SIDE OF SATAN, and that is, you will all admit the losing side. Oh, think of it, unsaved boy or girl, if you were to die to-day you would be lost for ever! You would go to that place where there is a continual weeping and gnashing of teeth!

I do not like to speak of such a place. but, out of faithfulness, I must warn you of what is ahead of everyone who rejects God’s Christ—JESUS. But this blessed J esus that I present to you wants to snatch you from the grasp of Satan, and take you Himself; and if you are on His side, depend upon it, you are in safe keeping, because Jesus Himself says, speaking of those that put their trust in Him—”They shall never perish;” Is not that grand? Well, that’s

The Winning Side

And do you know what the Bible says of those who have not put their trust in the Lord?—”They shall perish;” that’s

The Losing Side

I do plead with you, I urge you, as Jesus now says to you by His Spirit, “Who’ll he on My side?” Just say to Him who has done so much for you by dying at Calvary, “Lord Jesus, I’ll be on Thy side;” and He will gladly receive you, for He is longing for you.

When Tom picked his players, he only wanted eleven, and those over that number had to go away disappointed; but Jesus, blessed Jesus, receives ALL who come to Him, for He says—”Him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out.”

Now, I conclude, I again plead with you, before you lay this little paper aside, to accept Jesus as your own real living Saviour, and then you will be ready to die; or if the Saviour should come first, to meet Him in the air, to be forever with Him, and you will also have the great joy of serving Him down here.

Oh, that I could get you boys and girls to 1, e as eager to come to Jesus as Tom’s schoolfellows were to be on his side! There are only two sides: The Winning Side, “They shall never perish” (John 10:2S); The Losing Side, “They shall perish” (Psalm 1:6). Which is it to be?

Messages of God’s Love 7/19/1908

Mary Jones and Her Bible

Part III

THE first time Mary went to the farm house, she felt shy and timid, for it was a much larger and finer place than any home she had hitherto seen. But no one could long be shy with kind Mrs. Evans and as soon as the child had warmed herself by the bright ire, she was taken to the parlor, where on the table in the centre of the room, and covered carefully with a clean white cloth, was the precious book.

Do not think that this was a sign however that this Bible was never used. It was always read night and morning, and whenever the farmer had a spare half-hour. And now Mary found herself alone with a Bible for the first time in her life. With trembling hands, she lifted the cover, and opened the book at the 5th chapter of John. Her eyes caught these words, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of Me.” “I will, I will,” she cried feeling as if the words were spoken directly to her by some Divine voice. “I will search and learn all I can. Oh, if I had but a Bible of my own!”

When Mary had finished studying the Scripture lesson for the morrow and had enjoyed a plentiful meal in the cosy kitchen, she said good bye to her kind friends, and set off for home. Her mind was full of the one great longing, out of which a resolution was slowly shaping itself. It was formed at last.

“I must have a Bible of my own!” she said aloud, in the earnestness of her purpose. “I must have one, if I save up for it for ten years,” and by the time this was settled in her mind the child had reached her home.

The Christmas holidays had now come, but this would have given little Mary no pleasure, so bent was she upon learning, had it not been that during the holidays she had determined to try and earn something towards her Bible.

Without neglecting her home duties, she managed to undertake little jobs of work, for the neighbors. Now it was to mind a baby for a busy mother; now to pick up sticks and brushwood in the woods for fuel; or to help to mend and patch the poor garments in another family. For these services Mary got very small pay, generally a cent, or even a farthing, which you know is only half a cent, but each little coin was put into a rough money box her father had made for her, with a hole in the lid. One day she had the good fortune to find a purse, and on restoring it to the owner, he gave her sixpence. This was a great addition to her little store. Mrs. Evans, too knowing the child’s earnest desire, made her a present of two hens, and the money for the eggs they laid, was always put in the box.

But nothing ever hindered the little girl from going, to the farm on Saturday afternoon to study her Sunday-school lesson, and sometimes she would get so engrossed with it, that darkness would overtake her on the lonely hills as she returned home. Then her mother would get uneasy, but the child would say, “Why, mother, you need not have been afraid. God knew what’ I was about, and He would not let any harm come to me. The more I read about Him, the more I want to know; and I shall never rest until I have a Bible of my own.”

One evening she came bounding in with a beaming face, “Oh, father,” she exclaimed, ”I’ve brought home a big bit of the Bible today,” then seeing her mother’s surprised look, she added, “only in my head, of course, and in my heart.”

“And what is the bit?” asked her father.

“The seventh chapter of Matthew,” said Mary. “Our lesson was the first 12 verses, but it was so beautiful, I learned it all. Shall I repeat it to you?” And sitting down, she repeated the whole chapter, without a mistake.

What do you think of that, little children, who often find it hard to learn one verse for Sunday-school, and so often cannot say even that one without a mistake?

It seemed as if little Mary could say with the prophet Jeremiah, “Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of my heart.” Jer. 15:16.

Messages of God’s Love 7/19/1908

Affection

HOW kind sister is to little brother! She takes care of him, and in the early summer morning has taken him into the garden with his little basket, and has gathered some fruit for him, and now she takes him on her knee, and holds the basket for him to help himself. Do you think God is well pleased with us when we show kindness and affection for one another? Ah, yes, He would have us with tender hearts and He exhorts His own to love one another.

The way in which we can truly love one another is to know the love that God has shown to us. Where He has expressed it the most, is when He gave His own Son to die in our place. He loved us so much that He did not want us to suffer for our sins, and thus be sent away forever from His holy presence, so He punished His Son in our stead.

May we, dear readers, enjoy this in our souls and then we will be able to manifest that love to others. So the Scripture says, “THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS LOVE, JOY, PEACE, LONG SUFFERING, GENTLENESS, GOODNESS, FAITH, MEEKNESS, TEMPERANCE: AGAINST SUCH THERE IS NO LAW.” Gal. 5:22, 23.

All who believe in Jesus from the heart have God’s Spirit, and the fruit of the Spirit is the character of God, and will be shown in some measure in our ways, if we are His. What a blessed path the believer in the Lord Jesus has, and what joy to himself, and happiness to others as well, if he walks in it.

“Teach me Thy way, O Lord; I will walk in Thy truth: unite my heart to fear Thy name. Psa. 86:11.

Messages of God’s Love 7/26/1908

Mary Jones and Her Bible

Part IV

Six years have passed away, and still we see Mary Jones, busy collecting all she can towards her Bible. Sometimes through all those years, her heart had been discouraged, but she went bravely on, saying to herself, “The time will come when I shall have my Bible. Yes; though I have waited so long, the time will come,” and then on her knees by her little bed she had prayed aloud, “Dear Lord, let the time come quickly.”

And now at the end of six long years the time had come. The last penny had been earned, and Mary had enough money in her little box, to buy a Welsh Bible, dear as it might be. But where was she to get it? She could not take the money in her hand and go to a book store and buy one, as most of you could do today. No, the nearest place where a Bible could be procured was Bala, twenty-five miles from Mary’s home. And how could Mary travel twenty-five miles? There was no train, no stage, no pony for her to ride. All those miles must be travelled on her own feet, and bare feet too, for her one pair of boots must not be worn out by such a journey. No, they must be carried in her little bag to put on when she entered the town. But Mary, if she did feel afraid, had too much courage to draw back now. She got up early in the morning, and after her breakfast, and prayer for special safe keeping and blessing on her journey, she kissed her parents good bye and set off.

It was a lovely day in spring; the larks were soaring up from the meadow; the rabbits peeped out from nooks and corners; the squirrels, as they sprang from branch to branch looked down at her; everything seemed to be wishing her “good speed.” About the middle of the day Mary stopped to rest by a little stream, and there eat the simple lunch her mother had provided for her. After this little refreshment she plodded on again, but now she had come out on a dusty road, with no shade. Her feet became blistered, and cut with the stones. Her head ached with the heat of the sun. and she could hardly drag herself along. A drink of butter milk at one cottage, and a little bread and milk offered her kindly at another, helped her over the last few miles, and at last she reached her destination.

She had a home to stay at in Bala, the house of a Mr. David Edwards, and here she passed a peaceful night, her body and mind both resting, her faith sure that her journey would not be in vain, but that He who had led her safely thus far, would give her, her heart’s desire.

Early next morning, Mr. Edwards took the young girl over to the house of Mr. Charles, who was the only man in that part of the country, from whom a Bible could be procured. Mr. Charles was very kind; he made Mary tell him all her story, all about her home and her parents; how she had longed for a Bible when quite a little child, and how through six long years, she had saved up her little earnings, in the hope of purchasing one.

At first Mr. Charles gave Mary little hope of being able to supply her need. He said, “The Bibles I received last year are all sold out months ago except a very few copies, which I am keeping for friends. I am unable to get any more, and what to do to get Welsh Bibles to satisfy our country’s need, I know not.” Poor Mary! when she heard this sad news she felt as if her heart would break. She covered her face with her hands, and sobbed and cried in her deep grief. Mr. Charles could not withstand her.

“I see you must have a Bible. It is impossible to refuse you,” he exclaimed and going to a book cupboard, he opened it and drew forth a Bible, and placing it in her hands, he said, “Read this carefully, study it diligently, treasure up the sacred words in your memory, and act up to its teachings.” And Mary paid heed to what he said. The Bible for which she had toiled, and waited, and prayed and wept, became each day more precious to her. The Word of the Lord indeed nigh unto her, even in her mouth and in her heart.

Chapter after chapter was learned by heart until she could repeat whole books Bible. Nor was this all. For though to love, and read, and learn the Bible are good things, the Lord has said, “If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” The holy truths that sank into her heart, were but the precious seed in good ground which brings forth fruit an hundredfold, and the more that young heart learned to know the Lord, and to understand all that He had done for her, the sweeter became even the commonest duties of life, because they were done for Him. Mary Jones lived to be an old woman. She married and had a large family, but all through her long life, she kept her Bible as her most precious treasure, and when at the age of 82 years she passed away to be forever with the Lord, she left it to a Mr. Griffiths, and it is still to be seen in England, where it is kept safely, as a remembrance of brave Mary Jones.

Messages of God’s Love 7/26/1908

The Birds

CONSIDER the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have store house nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?”

Dear children, did you ever notice the birds how they hop from twig to twig and peck away at the bark? They are hunting for the eggs of insects stored there. I speak now of the birds that stay with us all winter; the Blue Jay is, one of them. Is he not a beauty with his bright blue and gray plumage? and he is very tame, and you can see him’ almost any time you look out, and hear him, too, for he has a very shrill discordant voice, not at all in keeping with his beautiful coat of feathers, and he sends it forth as he flies from tree to tree in search of food. The most of our birds are insect eaters and if it was not for our many beautiful birds that eat the insect’s eggs and the insects too, we would not have any fruit which I know. von all enjoy eating-, for the insects would take it all. Now I have seen little boys who were-cruel and killed the birds and robbed their nests; girls sometimes join them in this cruel pastime, I am sorry to say. But I hope none of you who read the “Message of Love” would be so cruel and wicked, for it is very displeasing to the Lord, and I hope you want to please Him, for God has made the birds and given them the instinct to eat the insects and their eggs, and so our fruit is saved. He also gives the rain and sunshine that our fruit may mature. Oh, what a gracious God we have to give us so many things for our enjoyment. He says not one of these dear little birds falls to the ground without His notice. He also has numbered the hairs of our head. God also takes notice of the flowers. He says, Consider the lilies how they grow, they toil not, they spin not; yet Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

This shows God’s care for the birds and flowers. Do you not think we ought to care for them too? Did you ever set out a pan of water under the trees for the birds and see them come and drink and bathe? If you have not try it and see how they will come and get in the water and make it fly in every direction. The Lord also says, Suffer little children to come unto Me and forbid them not for of such is the kingdom of heaven. Have you dear children come to Him? Have you given yourselves into His keeping? If so you are safe from Satan’s power. Satan is always trying to keep us from serving God. If you have not come to Him do so now—today is the accepted time. We know not what tomorrow may . brin:x forth, so do not wait but come ere it is too late.

Messages of God’s Love 7/26/1908

The Officer's Mistake

AN officer in the British Army was one day accosted by an artillery-man, who asked to speak with him.

The officer granted him his request. After a few words the man, with evident earnestness, asked, “Are you saved?”

“Well,” replied the officer, who was a doubting believer, “I hardly know what you mean, but if you had asked me if I am going to heaven, I should have said, ‘I hope so.’ “

The man looked straight at the officer, who, not being in uniform, supposed himself unrecognized, and said, “If I were to ask you if you were an officer in His Majesty’s army, would you say, ‘I hope so.’?”

From that day the officer never had a doubt as to his salvation; he took the Word of God just as it stands:—

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

“By Him all that believe are justified from all things.” Acts 13:39.

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” John 3:36.

Dear reader, if you are a true believer, you belong to Christ, and God, and heaven, as much as that officer belonged to the British Army, and it is your privilege to be certain of it, for “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God, that ye may know that ye have eternal life.” 1 John 5:13.

Messages of God’s Love 7/26/1908

God Loves Sinners

A FATHER once heard one of his little boys say to his brother, “If you are naughty, father won’t love yen!” His father called him, and said, “My boy, you must never say that. It is not true.” “Is it not true father? Will you love us if we are naughty?”

“Yes,” said his father. “When you are good, I love you with a love that makes me glad; but when you are naughty, I love you; but it is with a love that makes me sorry.”

That is like God’s love. He loves the sinner, but it is a sad love, a love which longs to see the sinner different; and God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son. He commends His love to us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Messages of God’s Love 7/26/1908

Bible Questions for August

Answers to Bible Questions for June

“I am Ile,” etc. John 18:5.

“1 am not of the world.” “ 17:16.

“I came forth from,” etc. “ 16:28.

“1 am the true vine,” etc. “ 15:1

“I am the vine,” etc. “ 15:5.

“I am the way,” etc. “ 14:6.

“I ascend unto My Father,” etc. “ 20:17

Bible Questions for August

Answers to be found in the Acts from beginning of chapter 15 to the end.

Write the verse following- these wards, “1 know that thou believest.”

Write the verse following these words. “from house to house.”

Write the verse following these words. “Received all that came in unto him.”

Write the words following these words “What most I do to be saved?”

Write the. verse following these words “Commandeth all men everwhere to repent.”

Write the words following these, “not sparing the flock.”

Write the words following these, “Remember the wards, of the Lord Jesus, how He said,”

Messages of God’s Love 8/2/1908

Would Death Be Gain to You?

Does Mrs. H. live here?” “Yes, Miss, I am Mrs. H.” The speaker glanced at the face of the person who had just opened the door, and answered her question. There was an expression of great peace there she thought, and as she continued, “I hear ‘you are a Christian; is “it so?” the quiet and decided reply in the affirmative did not surprise her much. After a little conversation, Mrs. H., at the request of her visitor, related the story of her conversion.

I was brought up by a kind person whom I was accustomed to call Aunt. She took pains to instruct me in the Scriptures, and sent me to a Sunday-school, where a dear Christian clergyman taught me and many others the way of salvation.

When I was thirteen, a young governess came to stay with us. One day, not quite a week after, she went to hear a sermon which was preached in the village. Being deeply impressed by it, on her return she related to us all she could remember. .1.s my Aunt and I listened, we noticed her heave a deep sigh; she rose, but before we had time to ask what ailed her, she sank upon her knees and her head fell ,upon her breast. We bent over her—she was dead! My Aunt hurriedly told me to fetch the doctor, but I was so frightened, that when I arrived at his door I could not utter a word. At last, however, two physicians came. One look at the kneeling figure sufficed—Emma was quite dead. She had died, they said, as she heaved the deep sigh which first startled us.

In the course of time the poor young thing was to be buried, and on the following Sunday, our clergyman begged that all the young women of the village should sit opposite to him, in the gallery, as he wished to ‘Speak in his sermon that day of the solemn, and sudden death which had taken place in our midst.’ The day came, and we took our places as he had desired. The text chosen was, “For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Phil. 1:21. Fixing his eyes upon us, he earnestly, asked, “Would death be ‘gain’ to you?” Again and again the question was repeated. “Gain!” I knew death would not be that to me. ‘‘I am not ready,” I said within myself, “I am not saved.” How his question rang in my ears! ‘While the only answer my heart could give was “No,”

The service was over, and we wended our way home? but how different all was to me now! Everything seemed changed; my happiness had vanished, and in its place there came a deep gloom. I could not speak to anyone of the sorrow and anxiety that I felt, so I bore it in silence; but my Aunt wondered at the change she saw in me, and one day she said, “It’s no use your fretting yourself ill like this, grieving so for poor Emma; it can’t do her any good; and as for you, it’s unfitting you for everything.” She was, however, ignorant of the real cause of my sorrow.

Some weeks passed slowly by, when one day, a young clergyman called upon my Aunt. “Well,” he said, “the death of that young thing should be a lesson to each of us, don’t you think so? Like a voice bidding us be ready.” Sitting at the further corner of the room, I heard what he said, and though had I tried to speak about my soul at any other time, I should have found it impossible, vet in that moment I forgot everything in the pain -that his words caused me. “I am not ready to die,” I sobbed. Mr. W. came across the room: kindly and soothingly he told me of that which could fit me perfectly for the presence of God; of One who did not spare His own lifeblood in order to save me—of His perfect love, love too great for me to understand, but in which I could share. He told me God’s own message of peace and pardon. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31. After this, he used to make me go to his house, that he might read and pray for me.

I knew that I was a sinner; I dared not even think of meeting a holy God as I was, unwashed, unforgiven; but God’s grace and mercy met me. Peace came at last, as, one day, the kind friend, who had so often tried to lead me to look outside myself, and “unto Jesus,” pressed upon me that “The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7. I believed it. Believed His blood was enough to put away all my sins; believed on Him who suffered, that might not; who atoned for sin, that God might be glorified. ‘Tis years since then; and though alas! I have often sinned, and grieved the God, who, in love brought me to Himself, I have never lost the peace He then gave me..

Reader, death may come suddenly: Would it be gain to you? You may be young—so was Emma; yet, she was “cut down as a flower of the grass, which today is. and to-morrow is cast into the oven.” Earth may attract you, and hold your heart, but if you put off this great question, in order to pursue and “gain the whole world,” what gain will it be in the end, if you lose your own soul? (Mark 8:36).

Messages of God’s Love 8/2/1908

A Little Messenger

A GENTLEMAN was passing through one of the busy streets of a city, when a little boy ran up to him, and touching his arm, offered him a tract. He took it, and the boy went on giving tracts to one and another of the passersby. Mr. M.’s attention was arrested. “I wonder who this little boy is? I will not let him off like this,” thought he. So he followed, and stopping him, asked—

“My boy, why are you giving those tracts away?”

He answered, “Oh! sir, I am so happy, I cannot help it.”

“But what makes you so happy? I see many happy boys and girls who are not giving tracts away.”

The lad looked up with a smile, as he said, “I know I and saved. I know that the Lord Jesus died to put away my sins, and that makes me happy.”

“I am glad to hear that, but how do you know it?” Mr. M. questioned again. “Sir! the Word of God says so.”

“Where does it say so? can you tell me any verse?”

The boy paused thoughtfully, and then said, “There are so many verses, I hardly know which to choose, but it says, ‘He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.’ “ John 3:36.

“It was through that verse I was converted, nineteen years ago,” said Mr. M.

Just then a lady came up, who said she was the boy’s mother, adding, “and I am

saved too.”

Three of the Lord’s loved ones were together; they had found something in common. Although never having met before, they rejoiced together there, in the crowded street.

Then Mr. M. told his young friend that he had been asked to go that evening to speak to some boys and girls about the Lord Jesus, and that he had been hesitating a little as to what he should do. “What would you have me do?” he asked.

“Oh! go, sir,” the boy answered.

“Why?’’

“Jesus is coining, and it may be the last time,” was the answer.

“What shall I tell them? Can you give me a message for them?”

“Yes. Tell the boys and girls to give their hearts to Jesus now.”

This was the message this little servant of the Lord Jesus Christ sent to the young people at that meeting, and it is the message we would give to you, readers. We do want you to be saved, and to he saved now, and then, like our little friend, you may seek to lead others to the Saviour.

Messages of God’s Love 8/2/1908

Begging

Poor doggie and kittie want a share in their little master’s lunch, and just watch how they beg, in their own way, and it seems as if he would not pay any attention to them! They evidently mean it too, they are not acting as if they were doing it for fun, still he keeps it all to himself. What would you call a little boy like that? Would you not call him selfish? I am sure you would. But very likely he is kind at times. How unlike this is to the way God has done with man. If we look back to the book of Genesis, we learn that Satan said to Eve, “Ye shall be as gods.” Ah, he was putting into her mind that God had kept something good from Adam and herself and so they were deprived of getting as much as He could have given them and they believed Satan, which produced the desire to be something more than God had made them. But they soon found that Satan had lied to them, and they had disobeyed God and were afraid to meet Him.

Satan would still try to make people think God was not good to them, and that He is holding something back from them; but it is not so, for God has answered Satan’s lie by giving His own Son (whoever was the dearest object of His heart) to die for man and thus bear the awful results of sin. So instead of letting man bear the result himself for his disobedience, He gave His Son to be a sacrifice on Calvary and charged Him there with sin and turned His face away from Him and left Him alone, just where Adam and Eve felt happier to be than in God’s holy presence, after they knew they had sinned. And that is not all that God has done for man; for, all who believe in Jesus not only escape the punishment they deserved for their sin, but, He gives them to share with the Lord Jesus where He now is at God’s right hand.

So, all that belongs to the Lord Jesus, He will share with those who believe in Him.

Ah, truly God is a giving God, and He is not giving all that blessing and showing that wonderful love because we are begging Him to give, but He is offering such a full, free salvation to whosoever will accept it:

My dear reader, what are you doing about it? Are you taking it and thanking God for it, and now seeking to live to His praiSe, or are you treating it with indifference?

“HE THAT SPARED NOT HIS OWN SON, BUT DELIVERED HIM UP FOR US ALL, HOW SHALL HE NOT WITH HIM ALSO FREELY GIVE US ALL THINGS?” Rom. 8:32.

Messages of God’s Love 8/2/1908

King Alfred in the Swineherd's Cottage

THERE is an old story in one of the ancient chronicles, that King Alfred, after he had been defeated in battle, took refuge in a peasant’s hut. It is said that the good woman, wanting to go out, set him to watch some cakes that were being baked before the fire. King Alfred, thinking more of his kingdom, and of the bow he was making, than the cakes, allowed them to burn, and the woman on her return gave him such a scolding as a king rarely gets. He evidently forgot he was not in the position of ruling, but being dependent on that woman for shelter in her house, he ought to have done as he was told.

There is quite a lesson we may learn from this incident. It is very difficult for man to take a low place, and it is a very easy thing to show authority and rule and scold, like this woman, when the chance presents itself.

This is not only the case with men and women, but with boys and girls, too.

Now the opposite of all this we see in the Lord Jesus. He was the One who knew what it was to lay aside His glory and come down to this world of sin and pride, and instead of wanting a high place, “made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”

He thus honored and glorified God, for He sought no honor for Himself but learned what it was to be obedient, and, as man, He obeyed God in everything and at the close of His path down here He could say, “I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do.” His path was not one of seeking honor and glory, nor forgetting, when He was in the place of a servant, to obey.

That path of the Lord Jesus is one for every child of God to follow in, and in the case of King Alfred and the woman we see a picture of our own hearts.

Many children like to be dressed well and feel themselves better than some poorer children, and it makes the poorer ones feel envious. Others glory in being smarter in school than some others and it makes those who are not blessed with as much brains to be discouraged, but the Lord was ever doing that which was for the good of others. May all of my readers seek first to know that One as their own Saviour and then follow in His steps.

Messages of God’s Love 8/9/1908

The Sailor's Search

EARLY in the fifteenth century, a brave and intrepid Spanish sailor, named Juan Ponce de Leon, set sail from the harbor of Porto Rico with three ships, in search of an island, in which there was said to be a spring of water, of which when old men drank they became young again. Not alone the ignorant and credulous, but many of the wise men or Europe believed this story, and longed to drink the water of this wonderful well, so that their youth might be renewed to them. The Spanish navigator sailed around the Bahamas, and drank from many a well, but not with the desired effect. His grey hairs and wrinkled brows remained, and not a whit more youthful in appearance or in spirits did he become. Turning his ships, he sailed in another direction, and anchored off a shore on which the trees were laden with their Spring blossoms and the fields covered with fragrant flowers, to which he gave the name of “Florida.” Three months sojourn amid its beauties failed to discover the looked for spring, or restore to him the beauty and freshness of perpetual youth. A third attempt on a different route brought a new group of islands into view. Landing on the nearest, he found that the only inhabitant was an aged Indian warrior, with wrinkled cheeks, ready to die. So Leon gave up the search, and returned to Spain a poorer yet an unsatisfied man. Men may not be so foolish now, as to search for lands of eternal summer, or for springs to yield the freshness of perpetual youth, but they seek for satisfaction in a world where neither is to be found.

“Earth’s pleasures are -like. Poppies spread,

You seize the flower, its bloom is shed;

Or like the snowflake on the river,

A moment seen then gone forever.”

“I have sailed three times round the world, and set foot on all its five continents; I have wandered on the coral shores of the South Pacific, sailed through ice-floes of the Arctic Seas, stood on India’s sunny plains, and on Africa’s desert sand, have made a fortune and lost it in a day, dug for gold and precious stones, and tasted life in all its varied aspects, but I do say this, that not until I came to “the place which is called Calvary,” and saw there the Son of God, the Saviour dying in my stead, did I know what true rest or real life is. It was just when I came to know Jesus Christ as mine, my Saviour, my I,over and my Lord, that I really entered into life, and knew what it was to have something worth possessing which the longer you have the better it becomes. Thirty years have come and gone since I first knew the Lord and received the gift of eternal life (Rom. 6:23), and bless His name I can say to-day as the Psalmist, “Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things,- so that thy youth is renewed as the eagle’s.” Psa. 103:5.

The speaker was a middle aged fisherman sitting on the side of his boat by the seashore, well known in his village as a happy and earnest Christian man, who had a smile and a word of cheer for everybody, and who preached with his lips and still more by his life, that grand and ever fresh and fragrant Gospel, that Jesus saves and satisfies all who come unto Him.

What a contrast was that happy, that Christ-satisfied fisherman, to whom the Son of God was a daily satisfying portion, whose love gladdened his heart, whose daily strength’ renewed his youth, to the unhappy Spaniard who sought for health and wealth and perpetual youth, where neither was to be found. And yet there are thousands and tens of thousands of all nationalities, of all ages, vainly seeking in the things of earth the happiness and the buoyancy of youth. They dread old age, they dare not think on the end of earthly life and what comes after death—the judgment; so they seek to drown the thought in the cup of earthly pleasure. But old age with its attendant frailties comes all the same, and death closes their eves to all the heaven they ever will 1, now. Alas! for the poor worldling, whether in poverty or wealth, who has no Christ, no salvation and no title or fitness for heaven beyond.

That which the heart vainly seeks in all earth’s springs and fountains, is found in Christ, and the eternal life He ,gives, the living water He imparts to all who come to Him. Of all earth’s fountains, Jesus says, “He that drinketh of this water shall thirst again, but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst, but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water, springing up into everlasting life” John 4:13, 14:. “Springing up,” not “going down,” increasing as the days go by, and the glorious end, everlasting life and perennial joys in heaven. Would you know this as a present experience, as a joyful possession now? You may. God has put it within your reach, and the last word of the Son of God from the heavens, in which He waits for your acceptance of His great love gift is, “Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Rev. 22:17. You can gain nothing by waiting. You are welcome now.

Messages of God’s Love 8/9/1908

Something to Love That Will Never Die

THERE was a little boy who had some pets, and he fed them and cared for them. A little Bantam rooster and hen and a large brown hen came to him one day. The hens laid eggs, and the large hen on the cold nights would sit on the perch with her wings spread over the little Bantams, as if she wanted to keep them from the cold. But one morning during the winter, the boy went out to feed them, and came running in crying, and said, “Something has raided my chicken coop. My Bantams are both gone and my hen is killed!” It was too true. Some dogs had entered and torn the large hen to pieces, and the Bantams could not be found. A few feathers in the next lane, told a tale that was sad for the little boy to think about. How uncertain are all earthly pleasures, even of such an innocent kind. In a moment they are all swept away.

It made me think of a story I had heard: A little boy had a dear little sister, but one clay the Lord took her to Himself and the little boy mourned over his loss. He had also a pet canary, but soon the little canary died, and he was very sorry, and felt sad about it. One day, after he had thought about it, he came to his mother, and said, “Mother, I want something to love that will never die.”

“Something to love that will never die!” Can such a treasure be found, you may ask? “Yes,” we can reply.

“Those who know the Lord Jesus have a living object in Him: one that never disappoints.

“And oh, the more I know Him, “

And all His grace explore:

“It only sets me longing.

“To know Him more and more.”

And we can say of Him:

He died for our sins on the cross;

He lives and intercedes for us in the glory:

He is coming again to receive us unto Himself.

Dear reader, do you know Him as your Saviour and your Friend? What will you do without Him when the end comes? How can you get on without Him now?

I saw a little girl in the train one day, and she commenced to sob. I saw she was in great trouble. On sitting down beside her. I asked her to tell me what she was troubled about. She said, “I am going, to B. and the conductor said, ‘This train does not stop at B.’ “

“Well,” I said, “you have made a mistake. This train stops at B. I am going there and if it takes us past B., I will bring you back with me. So you will be all right.”

Just then an official came along and I stopped him and asked him to tell this little girl if the train stopped at B. He told her “yes.” She was so satisfied with our words that she commenced to play with her doll, then fell asleep and at B Station I wakened her up to get her off.

This is like the good news of a Saviour to an anxious soul. If we believe it and trust the Lord, we have His promise of everlasting, life. “HE THAT BELIEVETH ON THE SON HATH EVERLASTING LIFE.” John 3:36. And this Saviour is a friend that cares for us and will guide us through life, for Tie says, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Heb. 13 and this love will go on even unto the end, for He says, John 13:1, “Haying loved His own which were in the world, He loves them to the end.” That will be when He comes again, for He says, “I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where am, there ye may be also.” John 14:3.

Is not this something or somebody to love that will never die? Your father and mother; your brothers and sisters, all must be separated; except those who love the Lord Jesus, and even those here on earth are often separated, but when the Lord Jesus comes, all who love Him will be together again in a love that will never die.

Children, are you ready to be caught up .to meet the Lord in the air? or will you be left behind with nothing but sorrow and desolation before you forever?

Messages of God’s Love 8/9/1908

Jesus Saved Me

POOR negro illustrated his salvation thus: He took a heap of leaves, made it into a circle, placed a worm in the center, and then set fire to the leaves. As the poor worm felt the heat it wriggled first one way and then the other, but whichever way it turned the fire met it.

He then stooped, picked it up; and placed it in safety. “There,” said he, “that is how Jesus saved me!” Even so, every one that is saved is not only saved for heaven, but from hell.

Messages of God’s Love 8/9/1908

Enchantment

WHAT a fascinating sight a fire is, as the flames dance, an the coals crack and the appearance of a rabbit, a lion’s head, a man’s face and many other things come to the vision as one looks intently at it, like the little boy in our picture! It is constantly changing, and last of all dies down and out, unless it is fed; and so it seems to say “It is not enough.”

Soon the little boy will get tired, too, and it will be all over.

Everything that God has given us down here is good in its place, and we must be thankful to God for all, but may we never forget that this is a passing scene, and we are to use all that He has given us here with that in mind, or we might set our hearts on these things, and then great sorrow comes to our hearts when the times comes that they leave us. We need to remember that word, “The fashion of this world passeth away.” 1 Cor. 7:31. It is the character of all that is here.

But there is one thing that God has said shall never pass away and that is His word. The Scripture says “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall not pass away.” Matt. 24:35. Then surely it is good that we take heed to God’s word—to hear what He has to say to us—for it is to abide forever. It shall give us God’s wisdom for our path and preserve us from our foolish thoughts and ways, and let us into the secret thoughts of His heart and acquaint us with eternal things, things that shall never pass away. Ali that He occupies us with in His word, centers around His beloved Son—the Lord Jesus Christ. He abideth forever and all who believe in Him are to be with Him, and rejoice in spending eternity with Him for He loved them and gave Himself for them.

May each little believer, who reads “Messages of Love,” take his delight more in reading and meditating on God’s word, and while having to do with the things here for this short life, may it ever be with the sense that it will soon be done and pass away like the fire we have often gazed at.

“THE THINGS WHICH . ARE SEEN ARE TEMPORAL; BUT THE THINGS WHICH ARE NOT SEEN ARE ETERNAL.” 2 Cor. 4:18.

Messages of God’s Love 8/16/1908

Little Richard, Or, The Closed Door

THE children of a village school were invited to a treat which they all knew would be very delightful. Mr. Lane, who was deeply interested in the young of his native place, had returned home after an absence of several years. He had visited many foreign lands, and had brought with him a large number of rare and curious things.

He had collections of strange looking insects and animals, stuffed birds, shells, corals, mosses, and seaweed. He had, besides, the costumes of the people of various countries; dresses from China, India, Russia, and Turkey, and many articles of wonderful design.

He invited the children on a certain day, and at a certain hour, and he promised to give them “a little lecture” and relate many interesting anecdotes to them.

Mr. Lane made one condition, “I do not wish to be interrupted,” said he “after you are all in the hall, and therefore I wish you to be there before two o’clock. At that hour the door will be closed, and no one can be admitted afterwards.”

The day came. Many a dinner was hurried through that there might be no danger of losing such a treat, and when the clock struck two and the door closed, such a large and merry party were gathered together that you would have felt sure all the children were there.

Time passed—five, ten, fifteen minutes after two by the village clock, a boy panting and heated from hard running came to the door. He looked up as he raised his hand to open the door. His eyes fell upon some lines in large handwriting on a ,paper fastened there, and his countenance Changed—

“Closed at 2. No Admittance.”

Poor Richard! Too late! The sound of glad voices reached his ear from the happy company within, but in their joy he could have no part. He knew it was of no use to knock or try to open the door. His disappointment was bitter indeed, and with difficulty keeping back the tears and sobs that struggled to come up in his bosom, he slowly walked home. His mother looked up as he entered.

“Why, Richard, how is this? I thought you had gone to Mr. Lane’s exhibition. You have been talking about it for a week.”

Richard broke down now, and covering his face with his hands, he sobbed, “I couldn’t get in, mother, the door was shut;” and then he confessed that, though he left home in season he had stopped at the blacksmith’s to see the men work upon an anchor, and after that he had play ed by the river with Diver, his uncle’s dog, and did not think of the time till he heard the clock strike two, and then he ran all the way and tried to get in but failed.

“Richard, if this were the first time you had suffered from being too late,” said his mother, drawing the little boy to her, “I should not think much about it, and would try to comfort you. But have you forgotten that you lost the ride your cousins enjoyed last week because you were away about something else when they started? Have you forgotten that only yesterday you lost the pleasure of seeing your uncle George who loves you so much because you did not come home from play at the time he wrote us he would be here, though you knew it in the morning, and he would not wait?”

Mr. Lane made one condition—the children must be in the hall before two.

God our Heavenly Father has promised to the children of this world a free pardon for their sins and a glorious home for ever with never-ending joys, and such sights as human eyes have not seen, and such sweet sounds as human ears have not heard.

There is one condition. Pardon must be sought now, a right to enter there must be obtained now. When Christ shuts the door none can open it, none can enter.

It is in this life we can obtain mercy; in this life we can obtain forgiveness and receive the Holy Spirit. Then as God’s dear children we have a right to enter in because we belong to Christ, and as the gates of heaven will open wide for Him, so will they open wide for all who are His own. Do you long for peace and pardon now, and that happy home for

ever? Then seek the Saviour now, and listen to His words and believe them. He assures you that He bore a load of guilt upon the cross, that He put it away —that He wants you to believe it and be happy, and tell the good news to others. Dear child, do not try to save yourself, but thank Jesus for His work for you, for His salvation. Beware of being Too Late! To-day go alone, by yourself, and speak to Jesus and thank Him.

Blessed Jesus! Do not doubt His love, dear young reader.

God loved the world of sinners lost

And ruined by the fall;

Salvation full, at highest cost,

He offers free to all.

E’en now by faith I claim Him mine,

The risen Son of God;

Redemption by His death I find,

And cleansing through the blood.

Love brings the glorious fulness in,

And to His saints makes known

The blessed joy and rest that spring

From faith in Christ alone.

Believing souls, rejoicing go,

There shall to you be given,

A glorious foretaste, here below,

Of endless life in heaven.

Messages of God’s Love 8/16/1908

The Word Or The World

AH! neighbor, there is only the difference of one letter between us,” said a sick woman to the occupant of the next cottage, who had looked in to see after her neighbor a little, “you love the world and I love the Word.”

Reader, which lovest thou? This poor passing world, which has cast out and crucified the Lord of glory, and is now hastening on, heedless of the gospel of the grace of God, to a sure, certain, and eternal judgment: Is this the object of your love? or, is the Word of the Lord, which unfolds the glories of that

blessed One who was rejected here, and tells of His finished work and of His sure return to take His loved ones home, unfolding too the present portion and privileges of the believer—is this your delight? Remember,

“The World

passeth away, and the lust thereof” 1 John 2:17; but

“The Word

of the Lord endureth for ever.” 1 Peter 1:25.

Messages of God’s Love 8/16/1908

Be Honest With God

IT was a passing word spoken solemnly, though hurriedly, by one on a busy railway platform, to a passenger in a train just about to start. The words still ring in my ears, “Be honest with God.

Art thou honest with God my reader? Maybe thou art moral, upright, and respectable before thy neighbors, and among thy friends; and honest enough in the eyes of those who surround thee day by day,—but, Art thou honest with God?

Hast thou taken thy true place: owning the need, and poverty, and sin, which He knows so well: owning that thy whole life has been spent for “self”?

Thou art a sinner,—hast thou owned this?

Thou deservest nought but judgment, —hast thou owned this?

Thou hast never thanked God for the gift of His Son,—never been grateful for all His care. Thou hast slighted His word, despised His counsel, refused His reproof, neglected His so great salvation, —hast thou owned all this?

God looketh upon men, and if any say, “I have sinned, and perverted that which was right, and it profited me not,” then, THEN,—He is gracious unto him, and saith, “Deliver him from going down to the pit; I have found a ransom.”

Be honest with God now, my reader; confess all; and blessing, salvation, eternal life await thee.

A day is coming when all will have to be “honest,” when every man shall give an account—-a plain, unvarnished account of himself,—to a holy God; then, nought but judgment will be thy portion, if thou hast sought to cloke and cover thy sins.

Again I say,

“Be honest with God.”

Messages of God’s Love 8/16/1908

Jesus Lives

The terrors of the cross are past,

Jesus lives.

Redemption’s work, so grand, so vast,

Jesus lives,

Although a crown of thorns He wore,

And all man’s wicked hatred bore,

Those dreadful suff’rings now are o’er,

Jesus lives.

Captivity is captive led,

Jesus lives.

Death and the grave bear nought of dread,

Jesus lives,

Released from sin and Satan’s hold

We soon shall enter joy untold—

With rapt delight His face behold,

Jesus lives.

Messages of God’s Love 8/16/1908

Have You Trusted the Lord Jesus?

I ASKED a boy how he knew he was saved, and as near as I can remember, he said, “I was anxious to be saved. After tea, I went up to my bedroom and kneeling clown, said, ‘Lord Jesus, I take Thee as my Saviour.’ So,” he added, “I have never doubted that I was saved, and a child of God ever since.”

Messages of God’s Love 8/16/1908

Sparrows

THERE is no bird so common, or of as little value as the sparrow. There are not only a great many of them, but their feathery coat is not beautiful and their song is not sweet, like many other birds. But there is one thing that is good to remember, that God’s word lets us know that He takes the same needed care of the sparrow as He does of other birds. The word is, “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without Your Father.” Matt. 10:29. And it continues, But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.”

How many there are who, fret and trouble themselves about the affairs of this life and so occupy their time in putting forth great effort to gain something in this life, so that they have little or no time to give to God’s word, or to pay attention to eternal things. They forget that God cares for all and provides food and raiment for all His creatures, and thus He is the preserver of all men but especially of those who believe. So, it is wrong for the unsaved to be worrying about how they can get along, but how much more so for those who believe,. to be worrying, for God has loved them so much as not even to spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for them all.

May each one, young or old, who reads these lines, seek first to know and confess the Lord Jesus as the One whom God has sent for them, and rejoice that they are such objects of His care, that the hairs of their head are all numbered, and that they are of more value than many sparrows...”MY GOD SHALL SUPPLY ALL YOUR. NEED, ACCORDING TO HIS RICHES IN GLORY BY CHRIST JESUS.” Phil. 4:19.

Messages of God’s Love 8/23/1908

Are You Working for Jesus? If so, Why?

THE other day as I was travelling by train between, two of our large cities, a gentleman in clerical attire stepped up and took a seat beside me in the coach.

“What Bible school are you travelling for?” he asked of me. He had evidently noticed my giving out a few tracts, and was interested to know my religious position.

“I am not travelling, for any Bible house or school, sir, but only seeking to give out the truth of the Gospel of the grace of God. If is a wonderful thing to know the salvation of Gdd in Christ isn’t it?”

“Yes, there’s great- need in this country of religious work. So few people believe anything. But it takes a long course of careful study to come to understand the Bible. Theology is a hard study just as Philosophy, or Metaphysics.”

“Well, friend,” I replied, believe that the best school on earth for the study of God’s Word is for the soul to get alone with God and the Word, and with the Holy Spirit as his teacher, to learn of the things of God.”

To this statement my companion took strong exceptions and began to reason as to the possibility of a believer possessing the Holy Spirit’ at all, and questioning the right of the believer to interpret the word.

“I belong,” he said, “to the church which preserved the Bible to us, and we believe that the Church and the Word have equal authority. You ‘cannot have one without the other.”

“You are a Lutheran then, I suppose?” I questioned.

“No, I’m a Roman Catholic.”

I was, to say the least, surprised to find that I had been in conversation with a Roman Catholic priest, but I nevertheless determined with the help of the Lord to put the Gospel of the grace of God before him while the opportunity was mine.

“It is a blessed thing to know that we are saved by the grace of God and that not of ourselves, isn’t it?” I asked, hoping thus to bring before him the fact of God’s free grace in saving lost sinners.

“Yes, but we have to do the works before we can get that salvation,” he said. “Doesn’t James say that salvation is of works?”

“I understand James to say that faith is not faith at all if it is not accompanied with good works, but that the good works follow because of the faith in Christ; not the works in order to get salvation.”

Then I proceeded as best I could to put before this man the free gift of God, but he seemed to be thoroughly taken up with the thought of the necessity of his own good works to get him to heaven.. Before we had proceeded very far with our conversation he had reached his station, and as he got up to leave me, these were the words he uttered, “So you think that good works are not necessary to salvation? Well. I wish they were not, and I’d have a gay old time in the world.”

Here reader, was a man, gowned as a professional servant of God, who was working what he called “Good works” in order to get to heaven.

Are you working for Jesus, and if so, why are you doing it? Is it to earn vour way to heaven, or is it because you want to pour out some of the treasure of your appreciation of His blessed love to you, by being found as His faithful servant? If the former, your works are as reeking filthy rags to Him. If the latter, He will reward you for it at the judgment seat of Christ.

Messages of God’s Love 8/23/1908

The Lord Will Provide

MY dear young friends. I would like to tell you of an event that happened come time ago, which plunged a Christian family into the deepest sorrow. It occurred in a town in France, and as I recount it, I want you to see the consequences that may follow disobedience to parents.

It happened on a hot day, the 18th of last July. Mr. J. started out with his son, who was then sixteen years old. He was a good, intelligent youth, very fond of work. They were going to a village quite a, distance from the town where they lived.

The father’s object in going to this place was to preach the gospel to the people in the village, as the priest had been removed some time before. This circumstance had led our friend to think and hope a favorable time had come to speak to these friends of the love of God, towards poor sinners, for these poor people were plunged in darkness.

From the railroad station to the village, there was a distance of several miles. As they went on their way, the son said to his father, “Papa, what will you do to gather the people together so as to tell them of the love of God?”

The father answered, “Do not trouble yourself. When we are there, the Lord will arrange all.”

Alas! at that moment neither the one nor the other knew what means God was going to use to bring this about.

It surely brings before us Gen. 22:7, 8. Near the village where they were going was a deep river. This they crossed safely in a boat. It was one of the hottest days of the summer, and before going in to their repast, they wanted to refresh themselves by taking a bath. The father alone could swim, consequently he directed his son to a sandy spot where the water was shallow, and he could bathe without fear, as long as he remained in the spot he had directed him to. Unhappily he did not do so. The sand felt so delightful under his feet, that he allowed himself to go on and on, unmindful of his danger, getting nearer and nearer to the inclined plane, at the end of the sand bar. The sand yielded under his feet, the weight of his body, pushing him forward. In a short time the water was up to his chin. Seeing his danger, he cried to his father for help. At this moment his father was near the opposite shore. He heard his son’s cry of distress, and agony, and swam as quickly as possible to help him. But the current was against him, for it was a mill stream. The poor father could not reach his son from behind, as he intended. He knew full well that drowning persons always clutch at any object near them. This he tried to avoid, so that his movements might not he impeded, but unhappily, instead of taking him as he intended, he was driven by the current face to face with his son. The poor boy seized both his father’s arms as he stretched them out to swim. Instantly his movements were paralyzed, and both went to the bottom. The father did not lose consciousness, and with a tremendous effort, both came to the top of the water, but only for a moment, for the poor boy’s legs became entangled with those of his father’s, and both went down again. Then, my dear young friends, the poor father passed through the most agonizing time. There was no means for both to be saved, but by disentangling himself from the clutches of his son, who in all probability had ceased to breathe, the father reached the top of the water. The body of the unfortunate boy had disappeared for the current had carried him away, and the body was found two hours afterwards, a long distance from the scene of the accident. No one was near who could give a helping hand, and the heart rending accident occurred in less time than I am taking to tell you of it. The News soon spread through the community, tind in a short time many people gathered to the river’s edge to hear all about the fearful catastrophe. The father was pressed with questions, and, notwithstanding the anguish he was passing through, answered them, and told them of the love of God and the work of salvation accomplished by His Son, Jesus—and lastly, told them of his hope for the future of the one who was no more, and also of his own. The funeral took place two days afterwards, the 20th of July. It was held at 12 o’clock, but even at 11, a number of persons were already gathered in the cemetery. Everything went on in a quiet, orderly manner, not a sound was heard. The village people sympathized deeply with the afflicted family. The word of God was read, and the gospel of the grace of God was presented to this crowd of people, who listened with deep respect. Old men wept, as they listened to the good news. A large number of the Gospel of John were given away. Tracts were distributed, and accepted with eagerness. Twelve days after, a stone was placed on the grave, with this full and beautiful passage on it, John 3:16, “God so loved the word that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Many from the village near the scene of the catastrophe came; also, many from other places, and it was the occasion of again speaking from the word of God in 2 Cor. 5:1-8. Again there was profound attention. After that, the way was opened to speak to them in private and many listened with pleasure.

‘Now, my dear young friends, what will be the result of all this seed sown?’ God, only knows. He alone can give the increase and reach the heart through the word, but I want to call your attention to the means God used to accomplish the deep desire in the father’s heart. Surely we can say, “God moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform.”

What deep sorrow it caused,. yet, can we not hope it brought glory to God? and that, through it, He accomplished His purposes of love, in that place.

Dear young friends, may this sad event show you again the need of being prepared to leave this world at any moment.

May I ask you, are you ready? Had you seen that dear, boy start out, his new hat on his head so happy to have a ride, full of youthful spirits, seeming like a bird on wings, and yet Death so ready to catch his powerless victim.

Oh! dear young friends, can you affirm positively that Death is not near you? Is it wise to put off your salvation? His word is, “Today if ye hear His voice, harden not your hearts.”

Our young friend, Louis, for some time before his death, had seemed more serious, often asking questions on the word of God, and often showing signs of a work of God in his soul. His conduct was exemplary. When his drawing Master heard of his death, he said, “I have lost my best pupil.”

May this simple story of an event that caused so many tears, be used of God to bring you to a sense of your danger, and may all who read it, be led to the precious Saviour.

“Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” This is the earnest wish and prayer of the writer.

Messages of God’s Love 8/23/1908

The Watering Place

DOWN by the old bridge is the well beaten path where faithful Ned has been led many times to get his refreshing drink from the clear sparkling stream. But today not only does David take him, riding on his back, but little brother and sister, too, ride with him, so delighted to get the ride; but little thinking of the need for Ned, at the close of the (lay’s work, to get his thirst quenched. David has thought of that, and that is why he takes Ned there several times a day.

What a picture this presents to us of all the pleasures this world gives. There is apparent satisfaction for the time, but soon the thirst is there again, and the longing is to get something more.

Some people have a great desire to travel, but they get tired of it in time; it has not satisfied them. Others like to hear some new thing, but that does not satisfy. So the Scripture says, The eve is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.” Eccles. 1:8.

Solomon—the man of great wisdom and wealth—tried all that was under the sun and found nothing here that could satisfy; and he had to say “All is vanity.”

But there can be satisfaction, peace and joy known in the heart of every one who puts his trust in the Lord Jesus. Peace, because he knows that Jesus has died for him and there is no judgment for him, for the Scripture says, “VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO YOU, HE THAT HEARETH MY WORD, AND BELIEVETH ON HIM THAT SENT ME, HATH EVERLASTING LIFE, AND SHALL NOT COME INTO CONDEMNATION; BUT IS PASSED FROM DEATH UNTO LIFE.” John 5:24.

Joy, because he has the Lord as his portion and the Scripture says “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again- I say rejoice.” Phil. 4:4, and, “Whom (Jesus Christ) having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory; receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:8, 9. Ah, dear reader, the only real satisfaction, peace and joy that can be had is in knowing Jesus as your Saviour and having Him as the portion for your heart. It makes no difference whether you are old or young, there is no rest apart from Him; so there is nothing to lose in coming to Him, but everything to gain.

Messages of God’s Love 8/30/1908

I Wish I Could Believe

THE above words were spoken to a young woman as she travelled from one of our college towns where she had been teaching, to her home for the summer’s vacation.

When the young lady entered the train and found it crowded, she accepted a seat by an elderly gentleman near the front of the coach. Hours passed before any words were spoken by either, during which the gentleman seemed deeply absorbed in thought.

Presently, however, the train stopped and among others who got on, one man in particular drew the attention of almost every eye. He was short in stature, but heavy, and had features which clearly betrayed his nationality. His countenance was far from pleasing and his manner gruff.

As he moved to the front of the coach, the young lady marked a change in the strangely absorbed man at her side. He raised his head and scanned with meaning glance the shaggy face of the new passenger.

“Marked wherever they are found! outcasts of the world, and despised—all because they did not accept the Christ: do you believe the Bible?” uttered the gentleman, all in one breath, as he turned to the young women at his side.

“Indeed, I do, every word of it,” she replied, “I find more comfort in it than any other book in all the world.”

“And tell me, are you a Christian?” he asked.

“I am very thankful to the Lord to say that I am; there is no real joy in this world if we do not know Him,” she immediately responded.

“Oh, if I only could believe,” he said in a tone of despair. Then this strange man at her side proceeded to relate the following story of his own sad life. He spoke in an undertone as though talking to himself.

“When I was a young man, I was possessed with an insatiate thirst for knowledge and in an effort to satisfy this desire I was permitted to enjoy the best which our country affords in Universities and Colleges. I was very successful in my school work and after earning several degrees, I obtained a most responsible position and thus had in my possession every comfort this world could give. My home was among the best. My family were not surpassed in culture and respectability. There seemed to be but one thing lacking to make them happy, that was that I might myself be happy, but that I could not. My parents, and. both my grandparents were avowed infidels, and I, no doubt, would have been the same save for an incident that occurred in connection with my grandfather’s death. I was but a child at the time, and of course did not understand much that transpired, but this one incident has been burned into my memory so that I will never forget it. Grandfather had called the family to his bedside, and had bidden them goodbye, assuring them that his death would be the end of him. He then urged them all to leave the room. I, however, for some reason, crept into the room after all had left, and was just in time to hear my old grandfather say in his last breath, ‘My God, My God, how can I meet Thee?’ I was terrified by the expression on his face and there God spoke to my very heart, and new thoughts now came before me. There must then, after all, he a God. I was sure of a future now, and my grandfather’s words rang in my ears. I could not get rid of them.

Time went by and many spoke to me about my soul, but all appeals have been in vain. I had many ambitions that I wished to realize before I became a Christian. In the early years I gave not much heed to those who begged me to accept Christ Jesus as my Saviour, but the older I got the more I became concerned about the words of my grandfather, which still rang in my ears.”

“Now,” he said in a tone of agony, “I cannot believe; how I wish I could believe. In my wide travel I have purchased books of every kind on religious subjects and I have filled my library with such. I have given my every leisure moment in reading such, and yet, I can’t believe.”

The young woman was deeply touched at the pitiful, despairing condition of this poor soul. She could only say as she looked into this noble, intelligent face, so careworn and unhappy, that she would pray to the Lord to help him believe and begged him to read God’s Word in faith.

The lady was nearing her destination, and nothing further was said. She soon left the train and the gentleman was left to his own meditation. May each who knows the Lord pray that this poor man may find Jesus, and have faith in Him as His Saviour.

Reader can it be that you are in the condition of this man? Have you been spoken to about your soul’s salvation? And have you remained indifferent? Accept Him now, we pray. May you never come to the moment when you must say, “I’ve neglected too long; I wish I could believe.” Remember, God had said,

“My spirit shall not always strive with man.”

“He that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.” Prov. 29:1.

Messages of God’s Love 8/30/1908

The Concealed Bible

Part I

HAVE you ever been to London? If you have, you know what a great, crowded, busy -city it is, and if you have not, you have heard a good deal of it, for everybody has heard about London—of its wide streets, with the constant stream of coaches, omnibuses, wagons and carriages of all sorts—and of its beautiful shops, that look so splendid at night, when they are lighted up. You can almost fancy what London is like now; but three hundred years ago it was a very different city. What are now bustling streets, crowded with vehicles and foot passengers from morning to night, were then green fields, where the worthy citizens, with their wives and children, used to take their country walk on a summer’s evening, after the business of the day.

Then the streets with shops were very different from what they are now. f hey were very narrow, and the tall old-fashioned houses looked as if the upper stories were going to say, “How d’ye do,” to their opposite neighbors.

The storekeepers had their goods set out quite open to the street, and they used to call to the passers-by asking, “What d’ye lack?” and bawling out a description of the fine things they had to sell. Some of the best stores were in Cheapside.

Come with me into one of the largest houses in that street; you see the name over the door— “Gilbert Croft.” He is one of the richest merchants in the city, and buys shiploads of goods from foreign countries. His house is generally very quiet and orderly, for Gilbert Croft is a grave man, and but seldom permits his children’s voices to be heard. It is plain, to-day however, that something extraordinary has happened to disturb the wonted quiet of the house. The father’s voice is heard in loud, angry tones —the children are crying, and standing before him like guilty culprits—while their mother sits by, silently weeping. What can be the cause of all this? I will tell you.

Gilbert Croft had been away on a journey for a month. A few days after he was gone, a great quantity of goods arrived from the Continent. On the day it. was unpacked, Edmund the eldest boy, was in the warehouse. As one of the men was unrolling a bale of carpet, a little book fell out.

“Here young master,” said the man, “here’s a fine book that has got shipped in by mistake, I reckon; you had better take it away, for I be no scholar.”

Edmund picked up the book, and ran away to his own room, eager to examine his prize. Now, you must remember that books were not so common in those days as they are now. Printing had not long been invented, and books were scarce and dear, so you may imagine that it was a great delight to Edmund to get a new book.

He found that, though it had come from a foreign country, it was in English. On the title-page was printed, “The New Testament of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” Edmund had never heard of this book before. He knew who Jesus Christ was, because he had heard the priest at church mention His name, when all the people kneeled down before the great golden cross;. besides he knew that the suffering figure he had seen on the cross in pictures, represented Jesus, the Son of “the blessed virgin.” But this was nearly all he knew about Him.

He began to read at the first chapter of Matthew and read on without once looking up until he had finished the last chapter, which you know tells of Jesus ascending to heaven. Just then his mother came in. Edmund started.

“O, mother,” he cried “I have got such a beautiful book,” then he told her how he got it, and read over the title to her; for like many others at that time she could read very little.

She then said, “I have heard of that book before, and I believe it contains many beautiful stories; you shall read it to me my son, as I sit at my spinning wheel.”

Hour after hour, that night, and for many nights, did the boy read aloud this wonderful book, until long after the usual hour for retiring; and when it was laid down, each one had much to ask about what was read, but, alas! There was no One to answer the questions. The mother was nearly as ignorant as her children, of the blessed gospel, and felt how greatly she needed that some one should teach her.

She was especially struck with the words of Jesus in Matt. 11:28-30, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” She thought they were very different words from what the priest taught. “When I confess .my sins to him,” she said, “I cone away. feeling the burden of them just as heavy as before. After I have said all the paternosters, and performed all the penances he has bid me, I never know whether God is satisfied with me or not. Now, here, Jesus says, ‘I will give you rest.’ That is just what I want —I wonder if He says it to me.”

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 8/30/1908

Bible Questions for September

Answers to Questions for July

“Confirming the souls of,” etc. Acts 14:22.

“Then Peter said,” etc. “ 3:6.

“How God anointed Jesus,” etc. “ 10:38.

“Which also said,” etc. “ 1:11.

“But he, being full of the,” .etc. “ 7:55.

“And while they looked,” etc. “ 1.10.

“But God raised Him,” etc. “ 13:30

Bible Questions for September

Questions for September to be found in the first eight chapters of Romans.

Write the verse containing the words “By the law is the knowledge of sin.”

Write the verse containing the words “Wages.” “Gift.”

Write the verse in which the words “Disobedient to parents” are found.

Write the verse containing the words “Cannot please God.”

Write the verse in which these words are found, “Gospel of Christ,” “Power of God.”

Write the verse in which these words are found, “Freely give us all things.”

Write the verse containing the words, “The resurrection from the dead.”

Messages of God’s Love 9/6/1908

Blessed Are the Meek

JESUS preached meekness, and he practiced meekness. He says, “Blessed are the meek.” In another place He says, “Learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly.” Jesus was wonderfully meek. He never spoke an unkind word to anybody.

Many years ago there was a little girl at school in France. One day, she was walking with her companions in one of the public gardens in Paris. It happened that there was a soldier then on duty. He was suffering from thirst, and was not able to leave his post to go and get a drink, so he begged these young ladies to bring him a drink of water from a fountain not far off.

The little girl’s companions passed proudly on, and said it was very rude and impertinent for a common soldier to speak to them. But little Lucy had a kind and tender heart, full of meekness and gentleness, and she couldn’t think of leaving a fellow creature in want, so she ran and got some water, though her companions scolded her for doing so.

When she brought the water to the soldier, he drank it eagerly, and then he thanked her heartily for it, and asked her name and the number of the house and the street she lived in.

Not long after this a dreadful massacre took place in that city. Hundreds and thousands were cruelly murdered. But that girl was saved. The soldier had not forgotten her. He had been accustomed to scenes of cruelty and bloodshed, but that one kind action had made-a deep impression on him. He sought out the little girl while the massacre was going on, and took her to a place of safety.

So she found that her small act of kindness came back to her and saved, her life.

“Whosoever shall give to drink unto. one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you; he shall in no wise: lose his reward.” Matt. 10:42.

Messages of God’s Love 9/6/1908

The Concealed Bible

Part II

ONE evening Edmund was reading the 3rd chapter of John. When he had read the 16th verse, his mother stopped him, and bade him read that verse again. He did so—the verse was— “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” “Oh! I understand it now,” exclaimed she, with. tears in her eyes; ‘whosoever’ then that means me; and now I remember a sermon I once heard about that very same thing.

It is now many years ago. Your father and I were walking, and saw a crowd of people going into St. Dunstan’s church; we went in with them, and heard such a sermon! I shall never forget it.”

“Tell us about it, mother,” asked Edmund and younger sister Anne, who was also listening.

“The preacher’s name was William Tyndale. He was a grave-looking„ earnest man; He seemed to look through one, and I thought he must have known me, for he told all about me, better than the priest could have done. That was his text you have just read; and many a time since then I have—wondered who told him such things; but now I remember, he read out of a book, no doubt, it was a New Testament.”

Soon after this, Edmund’s father, “Master Croft,” arrived home. He had much to tell of all that had befallen him on his journey, for there were no trains three hundred years ago, you know, and the roads were bad, and the conveyances clumsy. When he had finished the account of his adventures, he asked his wife to tell him how things had gone on in his absence. But when she told him the story of the Testament, and of the joy the reading of it had given them, her husband looked angry—more angry than she had ever seen him before; he rose from his seat, and striding backwards and forwards across the room, said at last:

“Wife, you have done wrong! where was your sense, to let such a book as that remain in the hands of foolish children? Don’t you know that it is a most dangerous book, full of deadly poison? Why, it- was only last week that his highness, our King Henry gave orders, and proclamation was made accordingly, that every one of these heretical books should be seized and burnt, and I understand that a great heap of them have been found and burnt at St. Paul’s Cross. I met Miles Grimby on my way up. He told me that the officers of the king are making most diligent search for them.

Now, suppose they should hear’ of this unlucky book; what if it were found! A fine disgrace truly, to have it said Gilbert Croft kept a heretical book in his house.”

To all this Mistress Croft could only say she was sorry; she had no idea the book was heretical; she had never heard of the king’s command, and she added, “How could a bad book contain such good things.” But Gilbert Croft would not listen to her. He called his children, and. sternly rebuking them, took possession of the offending volume. Matters stood thus when the family were just introduced to my readers. Gilbert Croft was not an unkind man, and when he saw the distress of his wife and children, he said no more about the matter, but putting the book in his pocket, went to his private office. But he did not burn it, as his wife supposed. He sat down to see what there was in it, that could so attract his wife and son, and so displease the king and clergy. He was surprised to find the book both interesting and easy to be understood.

Three months passed away, when Mistress Croft was one day delighted beyond measure by her husband bringing out the Testament from his pocket.

‘Then you have not burnt it,” she cried joyfully“ No,” he replied, “I have carefully examined it, and I shall have no objection to read you a chapter from the less difficult parts now and then.” You may fancy the joy of the wife! She thanked God with a full heart for thus answering her prayers; she had been hungering for the Word of God, and now she might have it.

The chapters were read more and more frequently, and it was not long before Mistress Croft found the rest for which she longed; she trusted herself to Jesus, the Lamb of God, and He forgave her sins, gave her that “peace which passeth all understanding.”

You see how God can bless the reading of His Word, even without a teacher. If we want to find the way to heaven, we must read the Bible, as this good woman did, and God will teach us, too.

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 9/6/1908

The Lost Ones Found

IN the Highlands of Scotland the common occupation, is taking care of sheep, as the hills cannot be cultivated; so it is an easy matter for the sheep to wander away in such places in search of a little better pasture. Then the shepherd and shepherdess, may go out in search till they find them, and then very often carry them home, as they are generally weary and worn. Had they only stayed where the shepherd had put them, what an amount of trouble the little things could have saved themselves. But, no doubt, they are glad they are found and the shepherd and shepherdess rejoice, too, that they have found their lambs.

The Lord Jesus, while He was here on earth, uses an instance like this to show His love for the lost and straying sinner. In that well known 15th of Luke, He says, “What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, cloth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbor, saying unto them, ‘Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.’ I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.”

The Pharisees and scribes were finding fault with the Lord Jesus because He was receiving sinners, so the Lord Jesus shows them that sinners are like lost sheep, and He was like the shepherd that was going after them, until He found them, and that He would have joy in bringing the lost ones home.

May each of my readers take the place of the lost sheep, if you never have done so before, and know that the Lord receives such and will take them safely home to the glory. I trust that the following lines may be the utterances of all my readers.

“Now I have seen Thee and found Thee, For Thou has found Thy sheep; I fled, but Thy love would follow, I stray’d but Thy grace would keep. Thou’st granted my heart’s desire, Most blest of the blessed is he

Who findeth no rest and no sweetness. Till he resteth, O Lord, in Thee.”

“ALL WE LIKE SHEEP HAVE GONE ASTRAY; WE HAVE TURNED EVERY ONE TO HIS OWN WAY; AND THE LORD HATH LAID ON HIM THE INIQUITY OF US ALL.” Isa. 53:6.

Messages of God’s Love 9/6/1908

Extracts From Letters

“Mr. E. B. Hartt. Dear Sir. I have decided to try to answer the questions in Messages of Love for I find it is a great benefit to my soul. Tonight as I was looking up some of your splendid questions I read some things that were very startling, but true, and made me re. alize the great love, also power of God. Oh! the Bible is beautiful Sir. I am not a Christian. Tonight the reality of God’s great love and tender care dawned on me and I could hardly keep from crying out.

I am thirteen years of age, my next birthday being Aug. 15th, 1908. Here are the required answers to your questions. I did as directed, that is getting no help from others or concordance.

Kind Sir! I think the questions you have published will deliver my soul about to stray into darkness. I have very seldom read my Bible given me as a present by Mr. Henry Gravelle which is both French and English. I will now try with the help of God to get my mother and father to flee to the arms of Jesus, for I am doing that now. Please write me a letter of encouragement.

Your grateful friend. L. C.”

Messages of God’s Love 9/6/1908

The Heron

THE well-known Heron was one of the commonest European birds, but owing to the draining of swamps, which were so acceptable to this bird, there are comparatively few. Nevertheless it is well known over there as well as here.

I suppose most of my readers like well to see the Heron in flight. It is a grand sight. The head, body and legs are held in a line, stiff and as if immovable, and the gently waving wings carry the bird through the air with a rapidity that seems the effect of magic.

Man may try to make ships to sail through the air and he finds that it is a very difficult thing. But when we look at the Heron rise from the ground and sail through the air with such gracefulness and ease, we may well think of God’s creative power and wisdom, for none but God could ever have made such and given the ability to fly around. Man may imitate and try to learn lessons from it all, but whatever he may attain to in imitating, he ever falls far short, and one thing he never can do and that h to give life. That belongs to God alone. It is beyond man to understand life, and indeed all that comes from God’s hand Is beyond man to fully comprehend.

If we turn to the Scriptures, we should be convinced of the same for it is so marked. Thoughts are given to us that are beyond man ever to have conceived—such as, Christ dying for His enemies, but the limit of man’s love is to give his life for his friend. Man cannot conceive anything beyond himself. He may understand what God has said to him, but he cannot comprehend it or conceive the idea. Wherever we look, at creation or Scripture, all is marked with the same hand of wisdom. So, dear reader, if you look at all the wonderful creatures that have come from God’s hand, whether it is the Heron or some other, may you seek to discern God’s hand and turn to His word and learn what He has to say.

“THE FEAR OF THE LORD IS THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM: A GOOD UNDERSTANDING HAVE ALL THEY THAT DO HIS COMMANDMENTS.” Psa. 111:10.

Messages of God’s Love 9/13/1908

The Concealed Bible

Part III

It was not easy, in those times of persecution, for a person to read the Bible long without being discovered. Edmund and Anne had been charged by their mother, on no account to talk to their young companions, or indeed to any person, of what they had read, or to hint to anyone that they had a New Testament in the house. They were obedient children, and took care to keep the secret. But their mother had quite forgotten little Maude, and through her the priest discovered that Master Croft possessed a New Testament.

You may imagine the priest was not very long in giving information to the officers whose duty it was to search the houses of those who were suspected of having New Testaments in their possession.

That very day, as Mistress Croft was sitting quietly at her spinning-wheel, her husband came into the room with a troubled look.

“Wife,” said he, hurriedly, “it is as I feared by some means or other, the search-officers have got to know that we have a testament—they will be here in half an hour—the nurse is just come in, and says that her brother, who is one of the officers, gave her a hint of their intentions, so the good creature hurried back to warn us. Where shall we hide it? Come—think.”

“Oh, then you will not give it up!”

“Give it up! no, indeed, not as long as there are holes and corners to hide it in.

I must say, I like the book; and, if I did not, I would not give it up at the bidding of a meddling priest; and as for my lord, the king, why, I think he should make up his own mind what to believe, before he punishes his faithful subjects for not being able to change their notions as fast as he does himself.”

Meantime, Mistress Croft was not idle—she had thought of a place in which to hide) the precious book. Without saying a word to her husband, she took it from its usual hiding place, put it in her capacious pocket, and with a plate of bones in her hand, went out to the court-yard where there was a large mastiff chained to a kennel. Neptune barked with joy at seeing his mistress. She caressed him a little, and then taking the treasured volume from her pocket, placed it on the straw inside his kennel, saying—”Mind it, Neptune—mind it, good dog!” and then gave him the bones she had brought, and left him. She knew that the book was as safe under his keeping as it would have been if guarded by a file of soldiers; for, clumsy and ugly as he was, he knew very well what she meant, and would have torn any one to pieces that had attempted to take it from him.

His good mistress then returned to the house, and informed her husband, she had found a safe hiding-place, but she would rather not tell him where, unless he wished it; so she and the dog had the secret between them.

Presently the men came to search the house.

“I have had information against you, Master Croft,” said the foremost of them, handing him a warrant, “that you have in your house, contrary to the express prohibition of his gracious highness, one of those injurious, dangerous, and heretical books—a New Testament. I ask you if this is true?”

“Save your fine speeches, sir; and spare yourself the trouble of asking questions which will not he answered. If I understand it rightly, your warrant authorizes you to search, but not to question and examine your betters. Do your work, sir.”

The man bit his lip, mortified at being unable to show off his self-importance; he and the others set to work, and examined every part of the house, but unsuccessfully. Corners into which a mouse could scarcely have squeezed itself, were eagerly looked into. Beds, pillows, and cushions, got many a rough shake; but it was all of no use, and the men were getting quite impatient. They had ransacked every part of the house, the shop, and the warehouse; as a last effort, they went into the court-yard to examine the out-buildings. Neptune seemed to consider this a most impertinent invasion of his territory, and saluted the intruders with his most angry growls and barks.

“Do you see that dog, how he is placed close against the stable?” said one of the men. “I’ll warrant now, that’s the place where these heretics have hid their book.”

“Ay, then we’ll cheat them, that will we” said the leader—”Ho, there! down, sir! he down, brute!”

Neptune had no notion either of lying down, or of letting them pass him; but when his master made his appearance, and ordered him to be quiet, he durst not but obey, and sat at the mouth of his kennel, showing his teeth most fiercely, and with low, deep growls saying to himself that, for once, he knew better than his master, and would very much like to make the intruders keep their distance.

Of course, the search was unsuccessful. The men were obliged to go away disappointed and Neptune barked in triumph till he was hoarse. It was quite plain he knew he had done his duty well, for when his mistress (who had watched all from an upper window) came to take the book from him, and patted his rough, shaggy head, he wagged his tail, and looked the happiest of dogs. “Ah, Neptune,” said she, as she went back to the house, “thou little knowest what thou hast saved!”

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 9/13/1908

They That Were Ready

IT was a summer’s evening. Two children who had been amusing themselves in different ways for some hours had grown tired of their games, and had sat down to rest. They were brother and sister, and were always together, either at lessons or at play. As I have said, they were tired of playing, and tired too of being alone. Their father and mother were out that evening. They had gone with others to read the Word of God together, and in this way to hear of Jesus, God’s own beloved Son, Who had come many years ago to die on the Cross for men, women, and children.

It was growing late, and these children were becoming anxious at their parents being so long away. “I wonder why father and mother do not come home,” said the sister to her brother.

‘I don’t know,” said her brother.

“Do you think the Lord Jesus can have come and taken them away?” the boy asked. Their fears increased, for though these two children had heard of Jesus, they did not know Him. Do you know Jesus, dear young reader? Well, this boy and girl did not.

At last a bright thought struck them, and Emma, for that was the little girl’s name, said to her brother. “Harry, let us go over and see if Mrs. H.——is at home. You know she loves the Lord Jesus, so that if He has come He will have taken her up to heaven.”

So over they went and rang the bell, and when the maid came to the door they asked if Mrs. H.——were at home. Great was their relief when they found she was still there, and they went back home with thankful hearts, and soon their father and mother returned, and the children told them how frightened they had been because they thought the Lord had come.

Why were they frightened? Because they were not ready. Dear child, are you?

I want you to get your Bible, and read for yourself what the Lord Jesus says in the 25th chapter of Matthew and the tenth verse, of those that “were ready.” “They that were ready went in with Him to the marriage: and the door was shut.” You see, they that were “ready” were shut in with Jesus; they were safe and happy for ever. But what about those who were not ready? They came after “the door was shut,” and said, “Lord, Lord, open to us.” Did they get in? No, no, the Lord answered, “I know you not.” And they were shut out.

Dear reader, young or old, which will be your portion? Shut in, or shut out? Jesus says, “Behold, I come quickly.” It is not likely that everyone where you or I live will die tonight, or tomorrow, but Christ may come! He has said, “I will come again.” He “was once offered to bear the sins of many.” Jesus came into this world to die “once.” He is coming again to take all who have put their trust in Him to Himself, and the door will be shut. Where, dear young readers, will you be? Outside, or shut in with Jesus? Which? It must be one or the other, and that for eternity. “Someone will enter the pearly gate,

By and by, by and by,

Taste of the glories that there await,

Shall you? Shall I?

Some one will travel the street of gold,

Beautiful visions there shall behold,

Feast on the pleasures so long foretold

Shall you? Shall I?

Some one will knock when the door is shut,

By and by, by and by,

Hear a voice saying, “I know you not,”

Shall you? Shall I?

Some one will call and shall not be heard,

Vainly will strive when the door is barred,

Some one will fail of the saint’s reward:

Shall you? Shall 1?

Some one will gladly his cross lay down

By and by, by and by,

Faithful, approved, shall receive a crown,

Shall you? Shall I?

Some one the glorious Lord will see,

Ever from sorrow of earth be. free,

Happy with Him thro’ eternity:

Shall you? Shall I?”

Some one will sing the triumphant song,

By and by, by and by,

Join in the praise of that blood-bought throng

Shall you? Shall I?

Some one will greet on the golden shore,

Loved ones of earth, who have gone betore,

Safe in the glory for evermore:

Shall you? Shall I?

Messages of God’s Love 9/13/1908

Maggie's Birthday Gift

IT was Maggie’s birthday. The morning post brought many letters, cards and gifts, from uncles, aunts and little cousins, and Maggie was awake early that morning to receive them.

She had been confined to the house for over a week with a severe cold, and had been told by the doctor to keep her bed for a few days.

Tier birthday presents were all very pretty, and presented quite an attraction on the table by her bedside; but there was one in which her interest seemed to center. This was a pretty Bible, sent by her only brother, a bright Christian boy of eighteen, who had gone to learn his trade with an uncle. On the fly-leaf of the Bible, was the following inscription written neatly by her brother’s hand—-

Maggie’s aunt, as she sat by her bedside, sought to improve the opportunity of pressing home upon her conscience, and heart, the truth of God. Maggie was an obedient and loving girl, but she was not a true Christian. She had not been born of God, or seen herself to he a lost sinner, in need of a Saviour. But these words written by her Christian brother on her birthday gift, with her aunt’s explanation and application of them, were used by the Spirit of God to show Maggie that she needed to be born again. During that day she had many questions to ask her aunt, especially how she was saved, and how she knew it. The whole afternoon was spent talking about God’s way of salvation, and Maggie confessed, seeing that it was by faith in Christ alone. Her aunt went out on an errand for about half-an-hour, and when she returned, the first words she heard were, “O aunt, I am saved now!”

“IF THOU SHALT CONFESS WITH THY MOUTH THE LORD JESUS, AND SHALT BELIEVE IN THINE HEART THAT GOD HATH RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD, THOU SHALT- BE SAVED.” Rom. 10:9.

Messages of God’s Love 9/20/1908

The Concealed Bible

Part IV

THAT night, as the little family sat reading their beloved Testament, it seemed sweeter than ever, and Mistress Croft thought she would be ready to die, as so many were now called to do, rather than give up that .blessed book and its truths. Her husband said little; but, as he read Christ’s words, “Fear not them which kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do,” he paused, looked thoughtfully at his wife, and repeated the words again—”have no more that they can do.” As he shut the book, he said—

“Mistress, I’ll go no more to mass—every time I have gone since I read this New Testament, I have felt more and more what a foolish affair it is. I would that I knew more of these people’ that are called Christians, it seems to me that their teachings are very like what we have been reading; and if it be so—why it is better to be right with a few than wrong with the many.”

“Ay, even if we should suffer persecution for it,” said his wife.

“Father, what is that Jesus says about people who love Him being treated like Him?” asked Edmund.

“Oh, you mean, ‘If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you.’ “

“Yes, that’s the verse. Then I see now why Smith, the man that was burnt yesterday, bore all his sufferings so calmly. The boys at school were talking todlay about him; he was killed because he would not go to mass, or kneel to the wafer. Some of the boys saw him as he was led to the place where he was burnt. They went along with the crowd that followed him, and they said that nearly everyone was pitying him, and yet he looked and spoke quite cheerfully, and even sung a hymn. They said no one could have thought he was going to suffer such a cruel death. They stayed some time, but when the flames rose round him, they ran home, they could not bear to see it. Hugh. Langford said it was only pride made him bear it so well, and that if anyone .dared to kill him, he would scorn to let them think he feared for the pain; but the boys who had seen him said it was not pride, for he looked quite mild, and kneeled down and prayed for those who were killing him; and I thought of Stephen that we read about the other day, father, but I did not say anything.”

“Ay, boy, Smith was a better Christian, I believe, than King Henry or any of his priests; I would that we were like him I”

One morning, Gilbert Croft told his family that he expected a merchant named Hans Stolbach, from Brussels, to visit him a week from that day. On the day named, Stolbach made his appearance, and was kindly welcomed. That evening, Gilbert Croft thanked him for the book he had accidently packed in a bale of carpet twelve months before. Hans told him that it was not put in by accident, but was placed there, hoping it would fall into the hands of some person who would read it. Gilbert then related to his visitor and I have told you, and much delightful conversation they had about the truths of the gospel, and heartfelt thanks did they render to God for sending His word to them.

Hans Stolbach told them the Testament was printed by Tyndale in Flanders.

“Tyndale!” cried Mistress Croft—’’why that is the name of the preacher you and I heard in St. Dunstan’s Church, Master Croft.”

“The same man,” continued Hans; “He did preach there, then he went to Germany and Holland, and printed his Testaments, though many a time his printing-presses were seized, and he had to hide in holes and corners in fear of his life. He went about in this way from town to town, till at last he was seized, tried, and put to a cruel death. He was strangled, and then burnt.”

“Ah, me! and that was what he got for printing the gospel for us!” said Mistress Croft.

“Yes,” said Hans—”but that was not all; he has got his Master’s ‘Well done, good and faithful servant,’ and has entered now into the joy of his Lord.”

“Ay, and it was no trifle, either,” said Gilbert, “to know that he was sending God’s Word to enlighten many a dark place. Thank God it has reached here!”

The good merchant took his leave of the happy Christian family, exhorting them to be strong in the Lord, for they would probably be called to suffer for His sake. And so they were;—Gilbert Croft was ordered to quit the country with his family, and give up all that he possessed to the king. This he did without a murmur. Many were the hardships and privations of this little family in Holland, where they took refuge; but they counted all joy for the sake of Christ Jesus their Lord.

Henry the Eighth found, that great though he had thought himself, there was a mightier monarch than he. Death came, and he was forced to submit.

When his pious son, Edward VI, came to the throne, God’s hidden ones could raise their heads once more, and then Gilbert Croft returned with many other banished ones, to live in their own land in peace, to worship God as they pleased, and read their Bibles openly.

Now, I have finished my story—but I want you to stay one moment while I ask you a question—Do you love your Bible? You have seen how this persecuted family valued theirs; you have heard what trouble and danger those good men were in who translated and-printed it. It cost them much—their comfort—their lives, that you might have an English Bible. Prize it—read it.

Messages of God’s Love 9/20/1908

Jack's New Suit

JACK was a little fair haired, blue eyed boy of six years old. He was an orphan, and his home was with a good, kind auntie, who loved him•. very dearly. Money, however, was not very plentiful in that little home. Auntie Al. had to support herself and her little nephew by doing fancy work, and often she worked all day and late on in the evening, to earn enough to buy what was necessary. But just at this time, when spring was, coming on, and not only all the children round, but even the birds and flowers, seemed to be putting on fresh, bright clothing, Jack began to look at his Sunday suit, and he noticed that it was very old and very shabby, so of course he went to Auntie Al. as you would go to your mother in such a case, and he said, “Auntie, am I not to have a new suit soon?”

Auntie looked a little troubled, but she said, “Yes, dear, as soon as possible you shall. It cannot be for next Sunday though.”

Well, Sunday came, and Jack got ready for Sunday-school. His face and hands were nicely washed, and his boots blacked, but, oh! when the spring sunshine fell on the little suit, how faded and shabby it looked, and how the patches and darns showed up.

“Never mind, Jack,” said Auntie cheerfully, “your overcoat you know is good, and it will cover up the suit. You need not take it off,” but Jack still looked grave.

“I wore it last Sunday,” he said, “and I was so very hot.”

“Ah, well, think of next Sunday then I promise you, I will have a nice sailor suit all ready for you.” Jack looked up, through rather tearful eyes into his Aunt’s face, “Will it have braid and brass buttons?” he asked, and as she kissed him good bye, she answered, “Yes, dear, if you like.”

Now, it is easier to make a promise sometimes than it is to keep one, and so Jack’s Aunt found that week. Work came pouring in, day by day, and no one was willing to wait for it. She worked every minute of the day, and far into the night, but there seemed no chance of there being time to make a little suit that week.

“I must go to the store and buy one readymade,” she thought, “for I cannot break my promise to my little lad,” but she dreaded the extra expense. Money was scarce you know. And what do you think Auntie did then? I wonder whether you would have done the same? Why she knelt down, and told her kind loving Father, in heaven, the whole story,—that Jack’s clothes were too shabby to go to Sunday-school, and she had promised him new ones that very week, and that she had neither time to make them, nor money to buy them. And when she rose from her knees, and went back to work, her heart felt quite light, for she had many times before taken her troubles to the Lord, and He had always been her help and comfort.

There is a verse in the Bible which says, “Ask, and ye shall receive,” and another, “If ye shall ask anything in My name I will do it.” And these verses really mean what they say, not something quite different. Jack’s Aunt knew this, and having laid her trouble before the Lord, she quietly waited.

When Saturday came, the little boy began to ask about his clothes again, and the answer he got was, “I have not got them yet, but I have asked the Lord to provide for you, and I do not think He will forget you.” Bedtime came, and no clothes yet, but before the little man was asleep, there came a knock at the door—just a parcel, left by a stranger, and when it was brought in, there was Jack’s name on it, and inside—are you surprised?—a little blue sailor suit, with braid and brass buttons. Do you ask where it came from? Well, a young friend, in a distant town, had had it laid on her heart to make it, and an opportunity had come that very day to send it. Was it all chance? No, indeed, my dear little friend, it was the love and care of our gracious Lord, who not only feeds the birds, and beasts, and creeping things; not only causes the trees and flowers to grow, but loves and cares for little children, and knows all their wants, even before they ask Him. For do you know that little suit had been made and ready for Jack two weeks before he got it.

“Your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask Him.” Matt. 6:9.

Messages of God’s Love 9/20/1908

Never Till Now Have I Had Peace

THE writer was ‘recently speaking to a dear old lady who for years had been in uncertainty as to how she stood with regard to the salvation of her soul.

Some years before, she had confessed the name of Jesus, but like many others she had never heard a full gospel, and consequently knew nothing of that full deliverance into which God would bring His people. Hers was the old story of hoping and doubting—hoping that in some way, by hook or crook she might at last get to heaven, but doubting, when she thought of her many failures, whether she would be successful. But now the gospel had been simply and plainly set before her, and she had evidently been drinking in the good news until her soul had been set at liberty from the bondage of “doing.”

In reply to what had been said, she exclaimed, “Why, 1 have been sixty-five years trying to get to heaven by my own good works, until I came here, where I heard the true gospel, that, instead of doing,

All Has Been Done

Oh!” she said, “it is no wonder people commit suicide, when I think of how I worked and worried. Never until now have I had peace.”

The old lady had found peace through trusting in the finished work of Christ. While trying to work her way to heaven she would frequently say, “If I could only hear the doors of heaven close behind me, I would feel safe.”

But all is changed now, and she has lost all fear that heaven’s door will shut her out.

Should this meet the eye of someone who is still trusting in his own goodness, and is trying to reach heaven by “doing,” instead of “believing,” we would tell you that Jesus has finished salvation’s work long, long ago. If you are ever in heaven, you will be there through the work of another—not your own.

“TO HIM THAT WORKETH NOT, BUT BELIEVETH ON HIM THAT JUSTIFIETH THE UNGODLY, HIS FAITH IS COUNTED FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS.” Rom. 4:5.

Messages of God’s Love 9/27/1908

Stories About Sunday Schools

Number 1
Robert Raikes of Gloucester.

I LOVE going to Sunday-school,” said a little boy to me, the other day, and I felt very glad to hear him say so, and glad, too, that he had a Sunday-school to go to, where he might hear the beautiful stories of the Bible, and better still. learn to know his sins for given through faith in the Lord Jesus Did you ever think, boys and girls, that there was a time when there were no Sunday–schools; when the only difference to many children between Sunday and other days, was that they had more time to spend on the streets, in idleness and mischief? Yes, indeed, sad though it may seem, such was the case, and I want to tell you to-day something about the man who first thought of having classes on Sunday for the neglected children around him.

Robert Raikes was the name of this good man, and he lived in England, in the fine city of Gloucester. Mr. Raikes was a printer, and also, published a newspaper. He was a rich man, lived in a large house, and was always handsomely dressed. But he had something better than earthly riches. He was a-humble believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, and so he possessed the true riches, which no man could take from him, and he says in one of his letters, which is still preserved, that his greatest desire was to follow in the steps of his Master, “Who went about doing good.”

There were Many rich, well-dressed people in Gloucester at that time, and they went to church on Sunday, and sent their children to school during the week, but there were three or four times as many people in that same city, who were poor, so poor that you can hardly imagine how wretched they were. Their homes were on filthy lanes, where the garbage lay in piles in front of the houses. The houses were dark and dirty; the men were dressed in ragged knee breeches, and ragged shirts or “smock frocks;” if the weather was cold they wrapped their feet and legs in straw, and threw an old sack over their shoulders. The women were dressed little better than the men, and as for the poor children, they are described by a writer of that time, as “ragged, filthy and disgusting.” Their time was spent in fighting and quarreling on the streets and lanes, and playing .1 game they called “chuck.” Their fathers and mothers had never learned to read, and they saw no need of their children knowing more than they did. But perhaps the worst thing of all was the terrible language they used. It was so mixed up with oaths and curses, that it was truly awful to hear.

What a difference between these poor, unfortunate, little creatures, and the bright, clean, well-dressed children who now flock daily to their comfortable schools, and on Sundays are gathered together to hear sweet stories about the Lord Jesus, and all He has done for them. Yes, outwardly, the difference is immense, but, do you know, in the sight of God your hearts are naturally no better than theirs?

“Why,” you say, “I am not like those bad, wicked boys and girls.”

No, you are not, because you have been taught better, but your heart is no better. Listen to what the Word of God says about it, “For there is no difference, for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

Another thing I want to remind you of is, that God in his great love is just as ready and willing to save those who are outwardly wicked, as those who are outwardly good, for the Lord Jesus has said with His own lips, that “He came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”

But we must go back to Mr. Robert Raikes. as I told you, he had a great desire to do good, and to help the many poor around him. When he was quite a young man, he began to visit the prisons. There were two of these in Gloucester and they were such terrible places, I hardly like to tell you about them, but one thing you must know is, that there was always a bad fever, called prison fever to be found there, and it was so infectious that every time Robert Raikes went to these places he risked his life. But God preserved him, and for twenty-five years he visited these prisons, reading to the poor ignorant men and women he found there, and telling them of the God they had scarcely ever heard of before.

The laws in this city, as in many others, were very severe at this time. People were often hanged for stealing quite a small thing, as a handkerchief, but the severe laws did not make good people. It is not fear which leads people, big or little, to do right, but love.

We are told that “the law was given by Moses.” It was a .very strict law, and every offence against it was punished with death, but did it make the people who received it good?

No, it only showed out the wickedness of their hearts. It did not make their hearts any better.

But “grace and truth came by Jesus Christ” and that grace leads us as repentant sinners to a God who can forgive us all trespasses, because His only beloved Son has already suffered, “the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God.”

Messages of God’s Love 9/27/1908

Lost and Found

LITTLE Janet Bruce lived in a pretty village in Scotland. Near to her home was a large wood. If you were to go in to it without a guide, you might go on for miles before you could find your way out of it. In some places no path is to be seen, and tall trees and creeping plants cast a deep shadow over the ground.

Janet was the only child of a poor widow, but God who cares for the widow and the fatherless, had raised up many friends for them; so that they had never wanted for anything. One evening, late in the autumn Janet sat at the door of her mother’s cottage. She had been told never to go far away from the house, lest she should be lost.

But on this evening, as she looked over the fields, she saw some bright blue flowers, and as she was very fond of making little bouquets of wild blossoms, she thought she should like to pluck them, and when she had got these, she saw more a little farther off, and forgetting her mother’s words, on she went. Janet did not disobey her mother on purpose, but it brought her into trouble just the same.

Do you remember a verse which says, “How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation.” Heb. 2:3? If you are not obeying the word of the Lord, but just forgetting about it day by day, because you are seeking things which please and interest you, are you not disobeying Him, just as Janet disobeyed her mother? All of a sudden the little girl felt a drop of rain, and the cool wind blew through her. She turned quickly round, intending to run home, but alas! she could see no cottage, nothing but trees, and shrubs all around her. She ran backwards and forwards, seeking for a path, each moment getting deeper and deeper into the dark wood. At last wearied and footsore, the terrified child sank upon the ground, and burst into tears. She was lost, and she knew it.

If you are still an unbeliever, you, too, are lost, do you know it? Have you ever said to yourself, I am a lost sinner, nothing that I can do, can take me to Heaven? Well, Janet felt she could do nothing. Over and over again she sobbed, “Oh! why did I disobey my mother? What a naughty girl I am!” Poor little child, are you sorry for her? at last she dropped asleep, there in the cold, wet wood. All night long as she slept, the neighbors were looking for her, but she did not hear their calls, and they did not find her. As soon as the daylight came again, she awoke, and felt very hungry, but there was no nice breakfast for her, and no loving mother to kiss her. She was alone in that great wood. She rose up and walked on; but not so fast as before, for she was cold and stiff, and faint for want of food.

After a time she came to a place where she saw some dark-looking people seated on the outside of a little tent. They were gypsies. Poor Janet felt very frightened, but at last she went up to them and told them she was lost. They told her to sit down by their fire, and gave her some food out of a large iron kettle that hung from three upright sticks.

But did they take her home? Oh, no! they took off her nice frock and gave her a ragged one, and told her she could stay with. them and be their little servant.

The pathway of disobedience is always a hard one. The Lord Jesus told a story when He was down here of a young man who left his home, and went off to please himself, and do you remember how unhappy he became, and how, hungry and friendless, he had to go out and feed somebody’s pigs? And yet in that far country, that young man was learning a lesson which we all need to learn. He was learning that he was a sinner; that he did not deserve anything but punishment. Have you learned that, dear little child? I know you have not run away from home like little Janet, but you have been a disobedient child for all that. You have sinned against God, time and again, and you know it. Yes, you, too, are lost, but the Good Shepherd has not forgotten you, and He is longing to have you in His arms, just as the Father in the parable, was longing for His son, and as little Janet’s mother was longing for her child. Next week I must tell you how she got home again.

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 9/27/1908

Bible Questions for October

Answers to Bible Questions for August

“Then Agrippa said,” etc. Acts 26:28.

“Testifying both to the,” etc. “ 20:21.

“Preaching the kingdom,” etc. “ 28:31.

“And they said, Believe,” etc: “ 16:31.

“Because He hath appointed,” etc. “ 17:31.

“Also of your own selves,” etc. “ 20:30.

“It is more blessed to,” etc. “ 26:33.

Bible Questions tor October

Answers to be found in Romans from beginning of chapter nine to the end of the Epistle.

Write the verse following these words, “Your reasonable service.”

Write the verse in which these words are found, “Confess to God.”

Write the verse following these words, “Be not wise in your own conceits.”

Write the verse in which these words are found, “Every one that believeth.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Shall be saved.”

Write the verse in which these words are found, “Thou shalt be saved.”

Write the words following these, “Let love be without dissimulation.”

Messages of God’s Love 10/4/1908

Lost and Found

(Continued.)

Last week we were hearing of a poor, little, lost child, and how helpless she was to find her way home, and were speaking too, of how everybody, even children, are lost. The Lord Jesus likened the sinner (and you know we are all sinners) to,a lost sheep, wandering farther and farther away from the Shepherd, but He did not end His story there; He told how the Shepherd went to look for the sheep, and did not cease looking until He found it. Has Jesus, the Good Shepherd found you, dear child, or are you still wandering away from Him? If you are, will you not ask Him to make you willing to be found?

I am sure little Janet Bruce was longing to be found. She was very unhappy with the gypsies; she missed the loving care of her kind mother; she missed the good food and comfortable bed she had been used to, and more than all, she shrank from the idle, wicked words she heard around her. She never heard the Bible read, nor did she even know when Sunday came. Was it any wonder that she grew thin and pale, and constantly fretted for her home? The gypsies saw how weak and sick the child was, and they began to fear that she would die, so they told her that in a short time they would be back again in the woods near her home, and then they would let her go home. Oh! what joyful news for the poor, lonely, little girl! How she counted the days and even hours. How long the time seemed! But it came at last. The woods were reached, and the gypsies showed Janet the pathway which led to her home. How quickly she went down it. Was she not going to her home, and mother? Do you remember how the prodigal son we spoke of last week, came back to his Father’s house, saying, “I, will arise and go to my Father, and will say unto Him, Father, I have sinned”?

Does any child who reads this paper long for the Father’s house, and the Father’s welcome? Then turn to God, and tell Him just that same story, “I have sinned.” Will He receive you? Did the Father receive that willful son? Did Janet’s mother receive her disobedient little girl? When Janet got out of the wood, she came to a field, where some men were reaping the wheat. They looked at the dirty, ragged child in surprise, but she exclaimed, “I am Janet Bruce, please take me to my mother.” And did they refuse? No, indeed, they made a seat of boughs, and put her on it and carried her towards her home,

Some went before—men, boys and women—and some followed after; others as they went, they sang aloud for And her mother—we cannot describe her feelings, as she clasped her beloved child once more in her arms. Did she wash her and change her clothes before she kissed her? No, that came afterwards. First, there was the welcome, and the joy, then the rags were taken off, and the child made fit for her mother’s house.

And in the parable we have been considering, it is just the same. We’ read, “When he was yet a great way off his Father saw him, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.”

Messages of God’s Love 10/4/1908

Stories About Sunday Schools

Part 2 Number 1
Robert Raikes of Gloucester

I HAVE told you how Robert Raikes, for many years, visited the prisons, and also, tried in other ways to make his fellow citizens better and happier. But he felt that he had not accomplished much after all, for the children all around were growing up as bad or worse, perhaps than their parents.

Off his printing office, Mr. Raikes had a small room, which he called his “den,” and here he used to sit and read or write for his newspaper. Now the window of this room looked out into a lane, called “Bolt lane,” and here day by day, dirty, ragged children played and fought, and shouted to one another in language too awful to be thought of.

All at once a new thought came to this good man, and surely it was God who put it into his heart. The thought was this, Why not try to teach the children to do right, and then when they are grown up, they will not be as ignorant and vicious as their parents. But who was to teach them? It seemed a hopeless task; but one little word encouraged him; it was this, “Try.” And he did try. He engaged an old woman for the sum of one shilling a week, to teach a class in her kitchen. Then he went round to some of the very poor streets, and invited the children to come on Sunday afternoon. He only asked the boys at first, and you may be sure the old lady had a hard time of it. I don’t think those little boys “loved going to Sunday-school.” You see, it meant sitting still, and keeping out of mischief for an hour, and that seemed very hard to them. Some of them were marched from their houses with logs of wood and weights tied to their legs to prevent their running away. And a story is told of a boy named “Winkin Jim,” who brought a young badger under his rags, and let it go in school, to make the teacher jump. Mr. Raikes lived quite close to where his little school was held, so if the boys were very bad, he used to be sent for, and sometimes he flogged them himself, and sometimes took them home to their parents, and insisted on their punishing them, waiting himself to see it done. You see, before these poor little children could be taught anything they had to learn to sit still and pay some ‘ attention, and I sometimes wonder in these days, how the children who come in their pretty frocks- and best suits to Sunday-school, expect to learn anything, when they listen so very little to what is said, and fidged about so very much. But little by little Mr. Raikes saw his plans succeed. He began to take his boys to church after awhile, and where he found they stuck pins into one another and fought and swore, he came and sat close beside them, and soon they learned how to behave.

People, rich people, laughed at Robert Raikes for the trouble he took over these dirty little boys, and called him “Bobby Wild Goose,” but I do not think he minded much. If we are really trying to do good, like the Lord Jesus, we must expect to be laughed at. Did they not mock at Him, and say all manner of evil against Him falsely, and finally put Him to a cruel death, because they hated Him, could could not bear His holy presence among them?

It was not long before the little girls began to wish to come to the new Sunday-school. They saw how much nicer their brothers looked in better clothes, and with clean hands and faces, and I suppose their vanity was excited. At first, they were worse than the boys, and Mr. Raikes would not punish them, so they were hard to manage; but that little word, “Try” still encouraged their kind friend, and he persevered, until he succeeded. In three years’ time, he had six or eight schools in Gloucester, each with about thirty pupils. The children had learned a great deal; not only to read, but many verses out of the Bible, and many things about the Lord Jesus and what He did for poor people when He was in this world. They had also learned to repeat, and sing many hymns.

I need not tell you, that from this time Sunday-schools went on and prospered. You know yourselves, that now, in every city and town, and all through the country, you may find Sunday-schools, where children gather together to learn to know the Bible; but perhaps it would interest you to know how many children and teachers all through the world, spend their Sunday afternoons in this way. Well the number a year or two ago, was calculated at twenty-six millions, and all this has come from the efforts of one man, a hundred and twenty years ago.

Messages of God’s Love 10/4/1908

Trying to Feed the Statue

THY heart is not right in the sight of God.” Acts 8:21. Such were the words spoken in judgment upon the man who presumed that he could purchase the gift of God with money. Do you say he was a very bad man? Yes, I think so too; but it is not so important to you to know what I think about this man’s heart, as it is for you to know what God thinks about your heart. If you are not a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ you have a heart as hard as stone, so far as there is anything in it that would honor God. That natural heart of yours cannot thank God for anything, for the natural heart is not thankful. Did you ever read what Jesus says you may expect from your natural heart? Just turn and read it with me in the Gospel of Mark, seventh chapter. “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness.”

Can you expect such a heart as that to appreciate the love and grace that God is trying to bestow upon it? No! “Thy heart is not right in the sight of God.” One might as well expect a statue of stone to partake of food, as for the natural, unconverted heart to love. God’s ways as given in His Word. You must come to Jesus and have your evil heart purified by, faith, and then it is that you will find your joy in feeding on His Word. Here are some of the fruits that come from the purified heart. “Love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance.”

“And if our heart condemn us God is greater than our heart and knoweth all things. Beloved if our heart condemn us not then have we confidence toward God.”

“TAKE MY YOKE UPON YOU, AND LEARN OF ME; FOR I AM MEEK AND LOWLY IN HEART: AND YE SHALL FIND REST UNTO YOUR SOULS.” Matt. 11:29.

Messages of God’s Love 10/4/1908

Saved at the Sea Side Service

ONE lovely summer evening, a good many years ago, some 600 or 700 had assembled at the Children’s Service on the shore at one of our most fashionable watering-places. There were lots of dear little children five, six, seven and eight years old, and plenty of big children—twelve and fourteen; while a great number of young men and maidens, fathers and mothers, and even aged, white-haired people, had come to hear what was said to the children, and listen to the sweet singing. Several nice stories were told to the children, and a short prayer offered. Then, while another hymn was being sung, I whispered to a friend “Will you speak now, and give me a few minutes’ rest?” He kindly promised to do so, and, at the conclusion of the hymn, opened his Testament at the third chapter of Romans, and read from the twenty-second and twenty-third verses, these words: “THERE IS NO DIFFERENCE; FOR ALL HAVE SINNED AND COME SHORT OF THE GLORY OF GOD.”

The gentleman gave a most earnest address, and showed how the Word of God distinctly says that rich and poor, old and young, children as well as grown up people, are all alike sinners! “There is no difference.” And because all are alike sinners, all are alike in danger. and all are alike in need of someone to deliver them from that danger, and to put them into a place of safety. And just as the children in a ‘sinking ship would be in as much danger of going down to the bottom of the sea as their parents, so the children in this sinful world, which is very much like a wrecked vessel, are in as much danger of being lost as their parents; but just as the children who jumped from the sinking ship into the lifeboat would be safe, so sinful boys and girls who jump into the loving arms of Jesus will be quite safe!

After the address I gave out a closing hymn. Just as we were going to sing, it, a young lady fifteen years of age, who had been listening with rapt attention, came out of the crowd, and said, “May I ask you a question, Mr. S.” “Yes certainly,” I replied; “but will you wait a few minutes until we have sung the hymn and closed with prayer?”

She assented and went back to her seat on the sand. As soon as the prayer was over, she came up again and exclaimed with great feeling, “Is it true?” “Is what true?” I said. “Why, sir, is it true that there is no difference? That gentleman said just now that we were all sinners alike, and that there was no difference—is it true?”

I replied, “Let us see what God says to us in His Word,” and turning to the third chapter of Romans, read slowly, “There is no difference; for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” I told her that it was not my friend who said there was no difference but the great God, and we might be quite sure that what God said was true; and, if He declared that all were sinners alike, of course she must be a sinner; and as God assured us that He could not have any sin in heaven, she could not enter that holy and beautiful city unless she came to the sinner’s Saviour to be cleansed from all her sins in His most precious blood.

The young girl was deeply moved. I believe that the Holy Spirit opened her eyes that night to see, and feel, and confess that she was a sinner, and opened her heart to accept and receive the loving Saviour. I told her that the only way in which it was possible for her to be saved was to come just as she was to the Lord Jesus Christ, and trust Him as her own personal Saviour. It was a solemn moment—all was so still; the crowd had dispersed; the daylight was fast fading away; the waves were rippling gently on the sand behind us, as in silent prayer Annie told the Saviour that she wanted all her sins forgiven, and would trust Him- alone to save her. She believed, and she was saved.

When I saw her the next day, the happy, peaceful • look upon her face seemed to say, “It is all true:

‘I came to Jesus as I was,

Weary, and worn, and sad:

I found in Him a resting-place,

And He has made me glad.’”

Perhaps some young reader of this sea-side story may be thinking—”Well, if that young lady, brought up in a beautiful, large house, and surrounded by rich and kind friends, was a sinner, and had to he saved just in the same way as the poorest or the wickedest people in the world, I fear that I, too, must be a sinner, and need Jesus to save me!” “There Is none righteous, no, not one. There is none that doeth good, no, not one. There is no difference. For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Rom. 3:10, 12, 22, 23.

Messages of God’s Love 10/11/1908

Stories About Sunday Schools

Number 2
How Ragged Bill Was Won for Jesus

ABOUT a hundred years ago. there lived in a town in one of the New England States, a little boy, by the name of Bill. As both his father and mother were in the habit of drinking too much, you may imagine that his home was not a very happy one; in fact he did not spend much of his time in it, but ran about the streets, ragged and dirty, playing at marbles with a number of other little boys very much in the same condition as himself.

Do you ask why he did not go to school? Well schools were not free then, as they are now, you know, and if you read our paper about Sunday-schools last week, you will remember that Sunday-schools had not been established very long, and were not nearly as common as they are today. However, in the town where Bill lived, there was a Sunday-school, and it was in the charge of a very earliest Christian man. His heart yearned over the destitute and ignorant children whom he constantly met, and would start for the school quite early on Sunday afternoon, and walk around, trying to bring fresh scholars with him to learn something of the love of the Good Shepherd, whose heart, too, yearns over the lost sheep and lambs.

One day as this gentleman was walking along, he spied Bill and his companions busy over their favorite game. As soon as they saw him, they all scamp, erect off, except little Rill, whose rambles were lying beside the large pump near which they had been playing.

The gentleman picked up the marbles, and as he handed them to the little boy, he began to talk to him about the marbles he used to play when a child. Bill was interested, and soon was talking in quite a confidential way to his new friend. After awhile the gentleman asked him to come with him to Sunday-school, but the poor boy shrank back, “Oh, no!” he said, “1 am too dirty” and he looked at his hands and clothes.

“Well,” said the gentleman, “T will pump for you, and you can soon wash clean.”

“You pump for me,” exclaimed Bill in surprise, as he took off his ragged hat, and soon he was enjoying the luxury of a good wash; but when a clean white handkerchief was lent him to dry upon his surprise became very great. He looked up earnestly at the gentleman saying, “Do you like me?”

It is hard for the natural heart to understand a love which is willing to “do good hoping for nothing again,” and how few really believe in that pure love of the Lord Jesus, Who while we were enemies, loved us well enough to die for us.

Poor little Bill was won by the love and interest which this good man showed. He followed him to the Sunday-school, but there he hesitated, “I am so ragged” he said, “the fellows will mock at me.”

They shall not,” said his friend, and as he spoke he• looked up in prayer to God, to incline the heart of the poor child to enter; his prayer was heard, the boy seized his hand in both of his own crying, “You will take care of me, will go in.”

And now a new life began for little He heard such wonderful stories; he listened to such sweet singing. He was both surprised and delighted; his little heart had been won by human kindness first, but now it was won for the Lord Jesus. As he heard the marvellous story of His love for sinners, for poor wicked boys, he accepted it at once, and felt that the One who had died for him, was his Saviour and his Friend.

But Bill could not be content to keep the good news to himself. Very soon he had persuaded his sisters, and little brothers to come with him to the school and after a time, his mother consented to go with him to hear the gospel preached.

The gentleman who had first brought Bill to the Sunday-school, left the city before this happened, and though he often prayed for the boy, he did not see him again, until, years afterwards, they met in a Western town. Ragged Bill was a man now, in a good position in business, but this was the least of the blessing he joyfully told of. His mother had been brought to the Lord, and had died rejoicing in her Saviour. His sisters and brothers, grown up and scattered, were all children of God, by faith in Christ Jesus, and seeking to live for the Lord. For himself, he could only speak of how precious the Lord was to him, and he told of his own efforts to gather boys, ragged as he had once been, into the Sunday-school, which it was his delight to teach in.

“Cast thy bread upon the water, for thou shalt find it after many days.” Eccles. 11:1.

Messages of God’s Love 10/11/1908

A Fading Flower

Some years ago I. went to stay

In a country village small;

While there I met a little girl,

She was pale and thin and tall.

Her health was poor, and like a flower

Touched with a sad decay,

Or blighted by an early frost,

She faded day by day.

She smiled and answered when I spoke

Of birds or book or flower,

Or of the sewing which she did

Beneath a shady bower.

She spoke quite freely of such things,

But if I spoke of God,

Or of that Happy. Land above,

Or of the Saviour’s Blood,

She would not speak one single word,

But kept her lips shut tight;

She did not want to speak of Him

Who is our life and light.

I knew the child was dying fast,

And felt that I must speak

Quite plain to this poor weary one,

So helpless and so weak.

I told her of the Saviour’s love,

Who died on Calvary’s tree;

That nothing but His precious Blood

Could save and make her free.

But not an answer could I get:

Saddened I went away,

Feeling that I could do no more

But daily for her pray.

When I returned to that sweet place,

I heard that she was gone,

But that before she died she had

Believed in God’s dear Son.

She freely talked of Jesus then,

And wished that I was there,

That she might tell me God in love

Had heard and answered prayer.

The words I spoke were used of God

That little girl to save;

She learned to trust in Jesus’ Blood.

Herself to Him she gave.

But, ah! how many dear young folks

Live, die, and go away,

To that dark place where never more,

Shall shine the light of day.

Friends speak to them of God’s great love,

But careless they remain,

And so there’s nothing else for them,

But endless grief and pain.

Oh! boys and girls, be warned in time;

While you are young and strong,

To Jesus come, then you shall sing

The everlasting song.

Messages of God’s Love 10/11/1908

A Teacher's Conversion

THE instrument used to carry home to my heart the arrow of conviction of my sinful state and need of a Saviour, was a little girl, one of my own pupils. One day we were engaged as usual at the Bible lesson. The subject was, “The Brazen Serpent.” After the chapter had been read, I went on to explain it, as I was in the habit of doing to the girls. I noticed they were more interested than usual, but I thought the familiarity of the subject might account for that. I sought to explain to them, that the serpent of brass was a type of the uplifted Saviour, as He Himself said to Nicodemus. Imagine my surprise, when at the close of the lesson, one of the girls asked, “Will we be saved all at once by looking to Jesus on the cross, as the Israelites looked at the serpent, Miss C.—?” I felt rather confused at this kind of question. I had not been accustomed to anything of the sort before, and had never thought much about it, in that matter-of-fact way. Before I had time to collect my thoughts and give an answer, my pupil went on to say, “My sister Laura says we will, and that she had looked and been saved.” An opportunity was given me of speaking with Laura a few days after, in the play-ground. She was a bright, happy girl, open-minded and free. I told her what her sister had said, and asked if it were true.

“Yes, I have been converted for several years, and am happy in the knowledge that my sins are forgiven, and that Christ is mine.” I asked her how she knew.

“I looked away from myself to Jesus; I believed He died for me, and that by His death I had life. That was all, was her reply.” I was dumb. Never before had I heard an argument like that. It simply shut me up to one of two things. Either I must confess myself an unbeliever, and a rejector of Christ, or if a believer in Him, then a possessor of life everlasting. Light dawned upon me through that simple word, and I believe it was then I passed from death to life.

Dear Laura: it was not , long after, when I stood with my pupils around me, near the same spot, looking at the coffin that contained her body; but I know she is with the Lord.

Dear reader how will it be with you? If you were taken this moment, would you go to be with the Lord Jesus?

“AS MOSES LIFTED UP THE SERPENT IN THE WILDERNESS, EVEN SO MUST THE SON OF MAN BE LIFTED UP: THAT WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH IN HIM SHOULD NOT PERISH, BUT HAVE ETERNAL LIFE.” John 3:14, 15.

Messages of God’s Love 10/18/1908

The Little Boy Who Did What He Could

For Young Believers

SOME years since, a vessel was ready to be launched in Philadelphia; all the arrangements were completed; the last stay and prop had been knocked away, and yet she moved not. The workmen were then summoned to try their strength in pushing her off, but still she remained stationary. A little boy, who was standing by, said he could not push much more than a pound, but he was willing to do what he could. He joined his strength with others, and off went the ship majestically into the river.

In this present evil world which, till the Lord comes, “lieth in wickedness,” God is making “known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which He hath afore prepared unto glory;” and you, dear readers, can render some help towards the accomplishment of His gracious purpose. Doubtless there are those who, in an especial manlier, are raised up by God to be “workers together with Him;” but you, however young in the divine life, have been saved that you may be useful, and blessed that you may “he a blessing.” You need not ask, Who are we, or what can we do? since “it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” “Say not, I am a child,” was the word of the Lord to Jeremiah when he feared to speak in His name; and though you are not called to be prophets, yet if you shrink from helping on the work of God because you have but “a little strength,” the words which rebuked him may rebuke you also. Neither “the child Samuel,”: nor the stripling David, was too young for the Lord to use in His service; and “in the days of His flesh,” the blessed Saviour not only took little children “up in His arms, put His hands upon them, and blessed them,” but “out of the mouth of babes and sucklings” ordained strength to still the enemy and to perfect praise. And since then, who knows, save the Lord Himself, the various ways in which young Christians have labored to promote the cause of Christ, and to what extent their labors have been blessed? Some, after much trial of faith and patience, have been the means of bringing their parents and grandparents, their brothers and sisters, to know the Lord; and others, outside their own immediate circle, have pleaded so earnestly for the Saviour that those who had long rejected Him have owned and felt His power to save.

Then, besides those by whom you are immediately surrounded, there are others in this and distant lands who “sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,” and if you feel for them as the “little maid” who “waited on Naaman’s wife” felt for her master, you will long for their conversion, and do what you can to help them to the gospel.

Your talents may be small, and your spheres of action limited, but remember, God often uses the feeblest instruments to accomplish His will. Be assured, where there is a will there is a way to glorify the Lord and serve Him acceptably. Wait therefore on Him, put yourselves into His hands, and beseech Him to use you for His glory. And do not forget that it is only as you abide in Christ, and have His words abide in you, that you will be “meet for the Master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.” God grant that you may be “steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord,” so that when your earthly course is finished, it may he said of you, They have done what they could.

Messages of God’s Love 10/18/1908

Stories About Sunday Schools

Number 3
Mary’s First Scholar

THE two stories I have already told you, have been about good and wise men, and how they were used of God to the blessing of others. But God does not .always use great and wise instruments to do His work. He sometimes uses small and foolish things. Robert Raikes, of whom I told you lately was one day teaching a class of his “ragged robins,” (as he sometimes called them) when he took out of his pocket a magnet, and a packet of needles, and he showed them, what, I dare say, you have often seen, how the magnet drew the needles to itself; then he explained to them, how the Lord Jesus drew children to Him, by His love and grace; and taking one of the needles which had touched the magnet, he showed that it too had the power of attracting other needles to itself, “And so,” said Mr. Raikes, “if you children have learned something of the love and goodness of God, you must now attract other children to Him, and lead them to the knowledge of their Saviour.”

The little girl I am going to tell you of had been attracted to the Lord Jesus, as the needle to the magnet, and yet, for a long time she was unable to say that she knew herself saved. She had often been told that the way to be saved was to “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ,” but she would say to herself “What am I to believe?” One day as she sat in a corner of the sitting room, she heard two ladies talking, and one said out loud, what Mary had often said in her heart, “You say, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus,’ but what am I to believe?”

The other lady said, “You are to believe that He died on the cross for your sins.”

“I believe that” said the little girl to herself, “then I must be saved,” and a new peace and joy took possession of her soul.

But perhaps you are saying, “I want to hear about her scholar now.” Well you must know that Mary lived in what arc called lodgings in England. The house belonged to a woman called Mrs. Black. She had a sick husband and two little boys, and she was glad to earn money by renting the greater part of her house, and cooking for her tenants. Mary did not often see Mrs. Black’s little boys as they were busy at school, and helping their mother, and she had her own lessons, too, but one Saturday night, before she went to bed, she went to the pantry to get some bread and butter, and presently another little person came to the same place, I daresay for the, same purpose, and you will not be surprised to hear that they began to talk.

“Tomorrow will be Sunday,” said Mary. “What do you do on Sunday?” “Oh! nothing much,” said little Albert, who was about nine years old, “father is too sick, and mother too busy to take us to church or anywhere else.”

“Don’t you go to Sunday-school?” asked Mary.

“No,” said Albert, “mother won’t let me, but I would like to.”

“I will lend you a book of Bible stories, if you can read,” said the little girl.

Albert shook his head, “I can’t read well yet,” he said, “but I would like to hear the stories, what are they about?”

“Oh, lovely stories,” said Mary, “all about Jesus, and what He did down here. You know He was called Jesus, because that means Saviour, and He came down here to save us from our sins.”

But Albert did not know anything about it, and when Mary said shyly, that perhaps she could read the story to him to-morrow afternoon, if his mother and hers were willing. The boy agreed at once. So on Sunday afternoon, both mothers being agreeable, little Albert appeared at the parlor door, in his Sunday coat, looking very smiling and very shy, but he found his young teacher all alone, and very soon he could think of nothing but the beautiful story she was reading from the Bible, of how the Lord Jesus came into this world, as a little baby, and was born in a stable and had a manger for His cradle. Mary had printed a text on a piece of paper for her little pupil. It was this, “Thou shalt call His name Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins,” and when the story was quite finished, she made him read the text over, till he knew all the words, and could learn it for next Sunday.

Mary’s class did not get any larger, for the younger boy, could not be persuaded to. come, but every week, she diligently taught her one pupil, until some months later, she left the city with the rest of her family. And what did Albert do then? Why he had enjoyed his weekly Bible stories so much, that he begged hard to be let go to Sunday-school and hear more, so his mother, who could not withstand his entreaties, gave her consent and soon afterwards Albert and little Fred might be seen going every Sunday afternoon to a large room not far off, where some ladies were in the habit of gathering in little children to teach them the “Old, old story, of Jesus and His love.” Perhaps you think it was a very small thing to read the Bible to one little boy, and not worth talking about, but God does not forget even a little effort, by a little child to teach another about His dear Son, and I have told you this simple story to encourage some other little Christian boy or girl to go and do likewise.

Messages of God’s Love 10/18/1908

Where Is Your Treasure?

IT is told of Constantine the Great that one day, when speaking to a miser, he took a lance and Marked out a space of ground of the size of the human body, and as he did so he said to the man, “Add heap to heap, accumulate riches upon riches, extend the bounds of your possessions, conquer the whole world, and in a few days such a spot as this will be all that you will have.”

What an awful thought for a man who is grasping all that he can lay his hands on in this world, that he can take nothing with him, and will only have a narrow bed of earth when his life here is over!

What a beautiful thought for the Christian that he has treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor mist can corrupt, so that though he may be very poor here, his, riches are there!

Where is your treasure, dear friend?

Remember, “the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” 2 Cor. 4:18.

Messages of God’s Love 10/18/1908

Was It Worth Climbing For?

A PARTY of tourists from the south were spending the day amid the rugged scenery of Argyle, on the west of Scotland. Wandering by lock and glen, they reached a waterfall, over-hung by precipitous rocks, one especially rising to a giant height, on the upper ledges of which grew charming flowers. One of the party, a young man known as an athlete, and noted for his agility in race and strength in wrestling, declared he would climb to the top of the, highest crag and secure by his own hand a bunch of the flowers growing on its ledge, to send by mail to his sister in London. Knowing the danger of such a freak, his companions remonstrated, and sought to dissuade him from making the dangerous climb, but in spite of all their warnings, he threw off his coat and began the perilous ascent, climbing cautiously and laboriously, until he reached the top, where raising his cap he gave a cheer to his companions below. The still more dangerous work began of procuring the flower which grew on the rock’s uttermost ledge and was rewarded with success; the coveted flower for which he had risked his life being held aloft in the view of his companions, who sat watching him with no little anxiety as he performed the hazardous feat. Then he disappeared, and began his descent with the treasured flower secure in his breast. What followed no one knows but in all likelihood, his feet slipped on the treacherous rock. A loud cry, followed by a sound of something falling, rang through the narrow glen echoing among the rocks and making the blood of the tourists run cold, for well they knew what it meant to their foolhardy companion who, in spite of all their protestations, had exposed himself to the needless danger on that rugged rock for the sake of the honor of climbing it, and of possessing the coveted flower which grew on its ledge. Hastening in the direction from which the cry came, they found their companion’s mangled body lying at the foot of the rock on the far off side, with the which had cost him his life. broken and crushed in his bleeding bosom. The journey back was a sad one; its silence broken only by vain regrets of their companion’s folly, and resolutions never to risk their lives in so needless a cause. The incident has its lessons for us all: There are tens of thousands doing exactly the same in regard to eternal things, as that daring young man did in risking his life for a fading flower and a little fame. They are losing their souls, neglecting a present salvation, and missing an eternal heaven, to secure the fading joys and honors of a passing world. In some cases pleasure is the, bait, in others wealth, but whatever it may be, if it costs the soul, if it means a worldling’s life, a sinner’s death, and a ‘Christ= less eternity, it is the greatest folly to climb for it. Are you such a fool, reader? Do not be offended at the question; it only means your good. If you have nothing better than a worldling’s heaven, nothing more enduring than what earth can give, and death ,sever from your grasp, you are poor enough. I invite you to come and share something infinitely better, “the salvation of God,” (Acts 28:28), the “unsearchable riches of Christ” (Eph. 3:8), “joy unspeakable” (1 Pet. 1:8), and “eternal. glory” (1 Pet. 5:10), All these are within your reach, without climbing, without effort, without merit, and without price. They are all offered you, and he who receives Christ (John 1:12) becomes God’s child and Christ’s co-heir (Rom. 8:17) of all that unmeasured wealth of love and glory which now and forever is His. Alas! for the man who has nothing to call his own beyond that for which the worldling climbs, on which he sets his hopes, and which when obtained, is only as a fading flower which death deprives him of and hurries him from into an unknown eternity.

“WHAT SHALT, IT PROFIT A MAN, IF HE SHALL GAIN THE WHOLE WORLD, AND LOSE HIS OWN SOUL? OR WHAT SHALL A MAN GIVE IN EXCHANGE FOR HIS SOUL?” Mark 8:36, 37.

Messages of God’s Love 10/25/1908

Nothing to Pay, To Do, Or to Fear

“It is Finished.”—John 19:30.

Nothing to pay?—no, not a whit:

Nothing to do?—no, not a bit:

All that was needed to do or to pay,

Jesus has done in His own blessed way.

Nothing to do?—no, not a stroke:

Cone is the captor, gone is the yoke:

Jesus on Calvary severed the chain,

And none can imprison His free-man again.

Nothing to fear?—no, not a jot;

Nothing within?—no, not a spot;

Christ is my peace, and I’ve nothing at stake,

Satan can neither harass nor shake.

Nothing to settle?—all has been paid;

Nothing of anger?—peace has been made:

Jesus alone is the sinner’s resource,

Peace He has made by the blood of His cross.

What about judgment?—tm, thankful to say

Jesus has met it and borne it away:

Drank it all up when He hung on the tree,

Leaving a cup full of blessing for me.

What about terror?—it hasn’t a place

In a heart that is filled with a sense of His grace:

My peace is divine, and it never can cloy,

And that makes my heart over-bubble with joy.

Nothing of guilt?—no, not a stain,

How could the blood let any remain?

My conscience is purged, and my spirit is free—

Precious that blood is to God and to me.

What of the law?—ah, there I rejoice.

Christ answered its claims and silenced its voice:

The law was fulfilled when the work was all done,

And it never can speak to a justified one.

What about death?—it hasn’t a sting;

For death has been conquered, the grave has been spoiled,

The grave to a Christian no terror can bring,

And every foeman and enemy foiled.

What about feelings?-ah! trust not to them;

What of my standing?—”who shall condemn?”

Since God is for me, there is nothing so clear,

From Satan and man I have nothing to fear.

Nothing to pay?—no, thanks be to God,

The matter is settled, the price was THE BLOOD,

The blood of the victim, a ransom di-vine—

Believe it, poor sinner, and peace shall be thine.

What am I waiting for?—Jesus, my Lord,

To take down the tent, and roll up the cord;

To be with Himself in the mansions above,

Enjoying for ever His infinite love.

Messages of God’s Love 10/25/1908

Stories About Sunday Schools

Number 4
“Ask and ye shall receive.”

ALTHOUGH over twenty millions of children go to Sunday-school, ‘there are still many who do not, and who have never heard of the Lord Jesus, and all He has done for us. I am not speaking now of children in heathen lands, nor yet of those in remote country places. No, I mean children in our big cities, who live in crowded tenement houses, or in tumbled down cottages in dirty courts. Fulton Street was one of these districts. A dirty, squalid place, where men and women and boys and girls lived, and died, and thought of little else except the struggle to procure food, and clothing. Yet each one of them had a soul, and it must live somewhere for eternity; but where?

This was what Margaret Bell was thinking as she walked slowly down the street. She had only lately come to the city, and the sight of such misery and dirt and poverty was an astonishment to her, and yet she felt she must go that way again—must try in some small measure to help or teach those neglected children.

“Could I gather some of the little ones round and tell them of Jesus?” she thought, and again and again the longing to do this came, but she was very young and very timid, and she felt she dared not try. Once, indeed, she procured some tracts, and left one at each house, but they were so ill received, that she hardly liked to try that again.

“There is nothing I can do,” she cried in despair, and then came the thought of prayer, “If I can do nothing, God can do all things, and He can help the poor little things.”

So as she walked up and down this street, which she always did when she got an opportunity, she would pray that the Lord would work amongst these poor people, and do for them what she longed to do, and could not. Many, many times she prayed, for the people on that street were continually in her mind, but no answer was given, and after a time she left the city, and new scenes and new faces came before her, and she ceased to pray for the people on Fulton Street. Now you shall hear whether the, Lord forgot these people, too, or if He answered those simple prayers.

Five or six years had passed away, when once more Margaret came back to the city. She had been there some months, perhaps, when one Sunday’ two friends came to her house.

“We have come,” they said, “to know whether you can help us this afternoon. We have procured a little Mission Hall on Fulton Street, and we are now going over to try and gather in enough children to begin a Sunday-school.”

You may be sure Margaret did not refuse, and they were soon on their way to the Hall. How her thoughts went back to those walks on that same street and the many prayers unknown to any but God. Well, the hall was soon opened, and then after prayer together, the friends went out, and began to invite the children in. In about half an hour, thirty or more children were collected. They were divided into three classes, and the school began. Nine or ten little girls fell to Margaret’s share, and her heart was very full of thankfulness to God, as she sat down to teach them. He had heard her prayer, and had done for her more than she had asked or expected. The lesson was on Luke 10, the beautiful story of the Certain Samaritan, and how, when the poor man, wounded and robbed by thieves, and neglected by his countrymen, lay on the roadside half dead, that wonderful Stranger, came where he was, and bound up his wounds.

I daresay, you have often heard that sweet tale, but it was new to these little girls, and they listened attentively as their teacher told them Who that Samaritan was, and that although they were like the poor traveler, helpless and ruined by sin, the Lord Jesus had come down all the way from the bright glory of heaven, to find them where they were, and to give His life for them, that He might have them with Him in His home in heaven. When the lesson was over and a hymn had been sung, the children were invited to come again, and then let go. And they did come 1gain next Sunday and brought more scholars with them, and the school grew by degrees quite too large for three teachers. By and bye a little Gospel meeting was begun to which the mothers and fathers were invited, and the little hall was full each week, with hungry souls, who heard with gladness of God’s love even to them, and many were known to receive the good news, and go on their way rejoicing.

Messages of God’s Love 10/25/1908

Not Ashamed of Christ

A miner lad who was lately converted, and works in the pit among a lot of godless youths, took down his Bible with him to the pit the day after his conversion. He was met with a volley of abuse by the ungodly young men as they gathered in a group to play cards and invited him to take a “hand” as he had done before. “I’ve changed my master,” said the young miner, “and if you are not ashamed to own your master, neither am I to own mine.” So he sat down a little way off from the group to read his Bible by the light of his pet lamp. When they saw that he was determined to “stick to his colors” they let him alone, and in a short time a number of them gathered around Davie to hear him read the Word aloud, and God blessed it to the conversion of several of them. Never be ashamed of Christ. The servants of the devil are not ashamed to own their master. Why should those who are the servants of Christ?

Messages of God’s Love 10/25/1908

Bible Questions for November

Answers to Bible Questions for September

“Therefore by the deeds,” etc. Romans 3:20.

“For the wages of sin,” etc. “ 6:23.

“Backbiters, haters of,” etc. “ 1:30.

“So then they that are,” etc,. “ 8:8.

“For I am not ashamed,” etc. “ 1:16.

“He that spared not,” etc. “ 8:32.

“And declared to be the,” etc. “ 1:14.

Bible Questions for November

Answers to be found in the first 8 chapters of 1St Corinthians.

Write the verse in which._ the words. “suffer yourselves to be defrauded” are found.

Write the verse in which these words are found, “wise,” “vain.”

Write the verse in which the words, “Christ our Passover,” are found.

Write the verse in which these words are found, “One God.” “One Lord Jesus Christ.”

Write the verse in which the words, “The Lord of Glory” are found.

Write the verse containing the words, “No divisions.”

Write the verse in which the words, “Abide with God,” are found.

Messages of God’s Love 11/1/1908

A Swearer Reproved

A MERCHANT and shipowner was standing at the entrance of his warehouse, conversing with a gentleman on business. A pious sailor, belonging to one of his vessels, came to the warehouse to enter it, but observing that the door was occupied, modestly stepped aside, not willing to interrupt the conversation.

While waiting there, he heard the name of Jesus profanely used, and, on turning to look he observed that it was his employer who was speaking. Instantly changing his, position, and standing, in front of the gentleman, with his head uncovered and his hat under his arm, he addressed the merchant in this language:

“Sir, will you excuse me if I speak a word to you?” The gentleman, recognizing him as one of the crew of his vessels recently arrived, and supposing he might have something to say about the business of the ship, told him to speak on.

“You won’t be offended then, sir, with a poor sailor if he tells you his feelings?” said he.

“Certainly not,” replied the merchant.

“Well then, sir,” said the honest-hearted sailor with much feeling, “will you be so kind as not to take the name of my, blessed Jesus in vain? He is a good Saviour. He took my feet out of ‘the horrible pit and miry clay, and established my goings. O sir, don’t, if you please, take the name of my Master, the Lord Jesus, in vain! He is your Creator as Well as mine, and He has made you and preserved you, and is always doing you good.”

This was said with so much earnestness and feeling, that the gentleman was quite touched. His eyes filled with tears, and he said “My good fellow, God helping me, I will never again take the name of the Lord Jesus Christ the Saviour in vain.”

“Thank you, sir,” said the honest tar; and putting on his hat he went away to his work.

“Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless ,that taketh His name in vain.” Exod. 20:7.

Messages of God’s Love 11/1/1908

Stories About Sunday Schools

Number 4 Part 2
“Charity Never Faileth.”

IF the children at the Mission school, of which I told you last time, had all continued to behave as well as they did that first Sunday, it might have been a model school, but soon a very troublesome set of boys made their appearance. There were six or seven of them all about fourteen years old, some were bright lads, and some dull, but they were all dirty and all bad. No one knew why they came; it certainly was not to learn and they disturbed all the test of the classes. They came stamping in at a late hour, and Aen they took their seats, they talked, swore, and chewed tobacco. One teacher after another took this class, but each had, to confess after a few trials, that he could do nothing with it. One Sunday, when the children had been dismissed, the teachers remained to consult as to what could be done. One suggested one idea, another, a different one, but at last someone said, “The best teacher to get for those boys is Miss Clark.” Everyone
exclaimed in astonishment, If a man could not manage the class, surely not a slight, delicate lady. But as nothing else presented itself, she was invited to try on the next Sunday.

Now, I must tell you a little or perhaps I should say great secret about this young lady. She was one who had long been in the habit of taking everything great or small to the Lord in prayer. She had gone through many deep trials, but each seemed to have drawn her nearer to her God and Father. God was a reality to her—a real, Father to whom she could come and spread out every difficulty and every perplexity. When she spoke to the Lord, or of Him, you felt you were brought into His very presence; you felt that you had a real unchanging Friend, One who cared for you, with a love truer and deeper than any human love could ever be.

But to go back to our story, and our bad boys. They all looked in surprise at their new teacher, and winked at one another, as they planned new mischief. Their teacher appeared not to see this, and began to talk to them in her gentle voice, asking their names, occupations, etc. They were quite ready to talk, and by the end of the first hour, she knew a good deal about each one, and the poor lads felt they had found a friend. Next Sunday they all came early, and gave her a noisy welcome as she came in. Several had tobacco in their mouths, but when Miss Clark remarked, that she did not think gentlemen “chewed”, when talking to a lady, the tobacco was thrown away. There was no more trouble in that class, and each week the lads became more earnest and more attentive, and the power of the Spirit of God began to work amongst them, as they listened with delight to the story of God’s love to sinners. For, mark, dear children, these boys knew very well that they were sinners; there was no doubt of it in their minds. They knew that they were quite too bad to appear before God as they were, and it was good news to them to hear of a way by which sin could be forgiven; to hear of One who had loved even bad boys so much, that He was ready to be punished for the evil they had done.

Well, weeks and months passed and then a great trouble came to those earnest, Christian men and women, who were seeking to teach the Gospel of God to the poor, ignorant ones around them. The Hall they had rented was required by its owners, and no other could be had in the neighborhood. Several of the mothers offered a room, but they were quite too small, and very unwillingly the school and week day meetings were given up. A week or two later, one evening Miss Clark was surprised by a visit from the whole of her class. She lived a very long way from their homes, and had never expected to see them.

“We have come,” they began, “to ask whether you will not go on teaching us, if we come to you on Sunday afternoons?”

You may be sure their request was granted, and for two years, those boys came regularly every Sunday. As the knowledge of God sank into their hearts, even their appearance improved. They took pride in being clean, and wearing respectable clothes. They no longer took the name of the Lord in vain, and each one tried to procure steady employment. But all this did not come in a day, there were many break downs, many sad confessions of sin to their much loved teacher. But what joy to her to be able to point them each one to the “Lamb of God who taketh away the sin of the world,” and to tell them “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.”

By degrees of course they grew older and then began to scatter, as their daily work led them in some cases to distant towns. All began to feel that the happy Sunday afternoons must come to a close. One day they all appeared together, and asked to see Miss Clark. When she came down stairs, they presented her with a pretty work box, which they had united in buying, and then one tried to read a little address, in which they told her of their gratitude for all she had done for them. But it was not finished, for the poor lad’s heart was too full, and he broke down, sobbing as a little child; and he was not alone, every boy joined him and teacher and scholars wept together. They are all scattered now; I know not where, but I believe that when the Lord comes to gather His own to Himself, not one of those boys will be missing.

Messages of God’s Love 11/1/1908

What Is the Time?

THE artist has given to the above picture the name, “What O’clock Is It?” I presume that most of my readers have taken the Dandelion seed balls and blown off as many• seeds as was possible in one breath, and by keeping tally on the number of breaths it took to blow away all the seed, you were able, as you said, to tell the time. Such, no doubt, is what these two interesting children in the picture are doing, and as far as we may judge from the picture, they are earnestly seeking to find out the time by means of the Dandelions.

Did you ever think of it, children, that God in His Word has told us the time? Not the time by the clock, for God doesn’t count time as we do. No, not that, but He has written it in letters easy to be understood, “Behold, Now is the accepted time; behold, NOW is the day of salvation.” That does not mean tomorrow, does it? or when you get older, or when you get to be a man or a woman? Well, then, when does it mean? “Now” doesn’t mean when you get to be a better boy or girl, or after you have heard that next sermon, or when you feel more like being saved. But for you, it means, that, just now as you read this little paper, you may look up in faith to Jesus, and say, “Lord, Thou hast said that NOW is the time for me to be saved and I accept Thy time, and do just now confess to Thee that I am a lost sinner, and I accept Thyself as my salvation.” If you have done this, you are saved, for He has said, “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.”

“COME NOW, LET US REASON TOGETHER, SAITH THE LORD: THOUGH YOUR SINS BE AS SCARLET, THEY SHALL BE AS WHITE AS SNOW; THOUGH THEY BE RED LIKE CRIMSON THEY SHALL BE AS WOOL.” Isa. 1:18.

Messages of God’s Love 11/1/1908

Repose

No soul can be heavy that has Christ for its rest;

No heart can be lonely that has Him for its guest;

Then pillow thy head on His bosom of love,

Till the dawn of His morning thy night-time remove.

Messages of God’s Love 11/1/1908

Honesty Rewarded

HARRY had been a cripple from infancy. His parents died when he was very young, so he never knew the tenderness of a mother’s love. He had an only sister, and the two orphan children were cared for by their aged grandmother, who lived in a single apartment in the outskirts of a busy manufacturing town. I cannot tell if the aged woman knew the Lord Jesus as her own Saviour, but she taught her two grandchildren to be truthful and honest, and although this did not make Harry and Matty Christians, or give them a title to heaven, it was good for them that they learned their grandmother’s lesson, as my story shows. Mattie went errands for the neighbors, for which she received a few pennies, which were a help to granny; and Harry, poor boy, was left very much alone all day. The neighbors employed him to mend their children’s toys, and other odd jobs, at which Harry was very handy. One day on his way down the lane, he saw something glittering in the sun, and picking it up. he found it was a chain. He showed it to Mattie, and she said “It’s gold, Harry. Somebody must have lost it.” A group of boys overheard the remark, and immediately surrounded Harry and his sister. One remarked,

“Sell it, it’s yours, you found it.” Another offered money for it. But Mattie kept a grip of the chain, and hurried home. Granny made her go to the Man or House and show it to the gate-keeper; for she was sure it would belong to some of the people of the Manor House. And so it did, for the only daughter of the Squire had that morning dropped it as she walked into town. The honesty of the two poor children was rewarded by a handsome gift to granny, and the young lady, the owner of the chain, took a special interest in Harry. He was sent to school, and in a few years was taken into the Office on the Squire’s estate.

Best of all Harry was converted. He trusted Christ, and became a follower of His, and in the village, where he began life as an honest orphan boy, he n looks after a big Sunday-school, while Mattie, who is his house-keeper, has a fine class of girls.

“BEHOLD, I COME QUICKLY; AND MY REWARD. IS WITH ME, TO GIVE TO EVERY MAN ACCORDING AS HIS WORK SHALL BE.” Rev. 22:12.

Messages of God’s Love 11/8/1908

Stories About Sunday Schools

Number 5
A Class in the Woods.

I SUPPOSE most of the Sunday scholars who read this, have their schools in peasant rooms with benches or chairs to sit upon, and texts or bright Scripture pictures on the. walls. How would you like to have school in, the green woods, with only grass or moss to sit upon, and no roof or walls but the tall shady trees around you? I daresay, you would all find it very pleasant, and so did the little children I am going to tell you about.

The teacher lived in a little log house, overlooking the broad Assiniboine River, and high hills rose behind the house, but around it, on either side stretched the green prairie, or shady woods. When first. she came to this /quiet spot, with the rest of her family, it was cold winter weather, the river was frozen up and snow banks lay all around; it was a lonely spot too, for there was no other house, for many miles; not much chance for a Sunday-school, you say. Well, winter does not always last, you know and the bright, April sun shone out, and the snow quickly melted, and the ice broke up in the river, and went rushing down in great masses, and very soon the grass got green and little flowers, blue violets, and purple crocus, and white daisies perked up their heads, and all looked cheerful and spring-like again.

With the spring, visitors began to come to the lonely valley; people with ox-carts, and tents and baggage. They wanted to settle on the other side of the river, lint the trouble was to get across. So the lithe white tent was pitched on the river’s brink, and soon a fire was burning beside it, and the bedding taken out of the wagons, and the children,, tired with their long drive, were• skipping merrily around. Two or three families remained just where they first put their tent, but others only stopped until their goods could be taken over the river. First the wheels had to be taken off the wagon and carried over in a small boat; then the wagon box was towed over, and bit -by ‘bit all the rest of the stuff, and last of all, the big clumsy oxen had ropes put round their horns, and were coaxed into the water, where they soon swam across, though I do not imagine they enjoyed it very much.

And, now, you can guess where the children came from for the Sunday-school. The Lord put into the heart of the young lady in the little log house, a great desire after the souls of these little wanderers, and she began to wonder whether she could not get them together on Sunday, and teach them something about the Lord Jesus, and how He loves little children.

The log house had but two rooms, and they were always full, so she could not have the children there, but why not in the pretty wood? Ah, that was the very place. So she asked two ‘little boys to go round on Sunday morning, and tell the people in each tent that there would be Sunday-school, in the wood by the river, at 3 o’clock.

Do you think anybody came? Why I don’t believe there was one child left in the tents. And how they enjoyed it!

The wood was so pretty, with the water gleaming through the trey, and the little birds making music for them, and the saucy squirrels peeping at them through the boughs. But I think they enjoyed the stories best of all, for they were new to most of them; and i5 it not something to make you glad to hear of a loving Saviour, who has come down from heaven because He wanted to have you up there, and who has borne the punishment of your sins upon the cross? These little boys and girls were, oh! so interested in what they heard; they would creep closer and closer to their teacher, and look up so earnestly at her, as she told them these “glad tidings of great joy.” When the story was finished, and some verses learned, she would tell them they might go home now, but only two or three of the very smallest would run away.

“Do tell us more, please, tell us more,” they would say, and you may be sure they were not refused. So, sometimes, Sunday-school lasted for over two hours.

One day as all were intent on their lesson, and their teacher was talking very earnestly to them about Jesus and His love to little children, she looked up suddenly and what lid she see, but an old man hidden behind a tree. I do not know how long he had been there, but he had a heart that was hungering to know his sins forgiven, and perhaps he thought the Saviour who cared for little children would care for big people, too. Do you think He would? Not very long after that Sunday, the poor man died, but before he died he had learned to know that Jesus had suffered on the cross for his sins, and he knew himself saved. It was through reading a little tract this man got peace, and that may encourage us to hope that God used many of the tracts given to these little emigrants, and carried by them across the great river to far away parts of the country.

Well, summer soon comes to an end, and the weather got cold after a while. The last Sunday it was too cold to sit in the wood, but the children who came collected on a pile of lumber, in a sunny place, to hear the sweet story just once more. The next Sunday, the tents were gone, and the log house empty; but what about the Word of God, taught to the little ones? That must be left to the care of the Lord, who has said, “In the morning, sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand; for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good.” Eccles. 11:6.

Messages of God’s Love 11/8/1908

The Debt Is Paid

THERE are many who really desire to know Jesus as their Saviour, but find it hard to realize that the work is finished without any help from themselves. I am going to give you a true story of a poor old woman, hoping it may help others to see the finished work of Christ, and that our readers may get the same blessing.

Her name was Betty, and as I said, she was poor, very poor, and not only so, but she was sick, and confined to her bed. Sickness is a great trial, and a still greater one when poverty comes with it. Just now Betty carried even a heavier burden. She was filled with doubts and fears as to her soul’s salvation. She had heard over and over again that Christ had died on the cross; that He had borne the punishment instead of us. She had believed, as she thought, still, her mind was dark and sad, as the thought of the future, and the distance between her and a holy God, and the way seemed all a mystery.

Mrs. Pax was a kind friend, who often visited her. Again and again she had sought to put the simple plan of salvation before her, showing that when Christ died on the cross, He finished the work; paid the debt in full; and, “being justified, by faith, we have peace with God,” but no matter how simply the truth was put before her, she found no relief.

Betty was very old, and at last she was laid upon a sick bed, and at the point of death. One day as Mrs. Pax entered, she found Betty in great distress. She had pulled the sheet over her head, and was sobbing violently, just as if her heart would break; the very lded shook under her.

“Dear Betty,” said Mrs. Pax, “what has happened to make you so unhappy?”

“Oh, Mrs. Pax, I can’t pay my rent, and the landlord is going to take my bed from under me. I shall die! I shall die!—” Her distress was so great and all that her friend could say seemed useless. She had not a cent, and the debt must be paid, or her bed taken.

Just at this moment they heard a violent knock on the door. This brought on a fresh outbreak of grief.

“There they are! There they are!” she cried.

Deeply touched at her sorrow, Mrs. Pax descended the stairs softly, and found the two men at the door, expecting to take the furniture.

“Well,” she said, after they had explained their errand, “you know this poor old woman cannot pay her rent.”

“Of course, madam, but we can’t help that. If she has not the money we must take the furniture.”

“But it is terribly cruel; she is dying!” “Madam, that is not our business; we must have the money or the furniture.” “Well, tell me, how much it is?”

The men told her, so, drawing the money from her purse, she said, “Give me the change and a receipt.” This they did, and Mrs. Pax put the receipt between the leaves of her Bible, and went tip stairs to reassure Betty that all was settled as to her bed, etc., little thinking that God was going to use this act of kindness for a far greater blessing

to the troubled soul of this poor old woman. She found her in dispair, expecting every moment to be pulled out of bed, and laid on the floor.

Her friend sat down by her, saying quickly, “Betty, don’t worry!”

“But, I must worry. I shall die!”

“But the debt is paid, Bettie.” The poor creature threw the sheet off her face, and looked round her in wonder. What had she heard? She could not believe her ears. Mrs. Pax repeated again those comforting words, “I assure you, Betty, you need not trouble yourself any more. The debt is paid,” and opening her Bible, she showed her the receipt, saying, “Here, Betty, this is the receipt. Read it for yourself and be convinced!”

The poor old woman spelled it out as well as she could. Suddenly, a very happy expression came into her face, and the sadness was gone. Her expression was bright, as if the cloud was lifted. She raised her hands and cried, “I understand! I understand! Jesus has paid my debt of sin. I can now die happy.”, It was so, she turned on her pillow, and committed her happy spirit into the hands of Him who had paid the debt.

And, now, dear reader, do you understand? Do you know Him of whom it is said, “They shall call His name Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins”? Do you think He needs any help from a sinful child? Did He not say, “Come unto Me,” and, “Suffer little children to come unto Me,” “We have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.” Do not think your works can help you. The words of Jesus on the cross were “It is finished.”

Messages of God’s Love 11/8/1908

A Tributary of the Amazon

WE have a picture this week of one of the tributaries of the great river Amazon. No doubt there are many such beautiful scenes in that rich tropical country, all speaking to us of the wonderful wisdom and power of God; but I will not write of hat line of things this time, but give you what another has written of an incident that occurred at the wide mouth of that river.

“A vessel had been sailing near the north-east of South America, when owing to some accident, and also some miscalculation as to where they were, the ship’s crew had become short of water. Day after day they had drifted on under the scorching rays of a tropical sun, until at last the exhausted seamen lay scattered on the deck, totally unable to guide the vessel. Just as hope had died out of every heart, a sail hove in sight. It was espied by one of the sailors, who, staggering to his feet, feebly gasped through a speaking-trumpet the cry of ‘Water, water, give us water; we are dying of thirst!’ Quickly and distinctly came back the answer, ‘Dip it up!’ It seemed a mockery, but they obeyed. The water was fresh. They had been drifting for days about the mouth of the Amazon, just where the tide affects the fresh water. They had been dying of thirst and yet surrounded with water on every side.”

What an illustration this gives us of man’s state as a sinner. He has tried to satisfy himself with the things of this world, but never, got satisfied. He is drifting on and on through life, and death is before him, but what a mercy if he, like these sailors, is aroused to a sense of his need; sees that after death comes the judgment and instead of crying out for “Water, water,” cries out, “Save me, save me!” Well may the answer be given. “Dip it up.” God has provided it for man, and His word is, “WHOSOEVER WILL, LET HIM TAKE THE WATER OF LIFE FREELY.” Rev. 22:17. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31. “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12. If a weary soul reads these lines, feeling that death and judgment are lying before him, Oh, friend, all that is required of you is to take salvation now from the Saviour—the Lord Jesus Christ who is right by your side.

Hark, the voice of Jesus calling—

”Come ye children, come to Me;

I have rest and peace to offer,

Rest, dear children, now for thee.

Take salvation—

Take it now and happy be.”

Messages of God’s Love 11/15/1908

A Touching Incident

A PASTOR was talking to a young mother about her maternal responsibilities, and urged the duty of constant and believing prayer for the early conversion of her children. She assured him that it was her daily practice to carry her little ones in supplication to the throne of grace, and yet complained of a want of faith and of definiteness in asking for them the special blessing she so desired for them.

“Do you pray for each child separately and by name?” inquired the pastor.

“No, that has never been my habit,” was the reply.

“I think it of much importance, Mrs. Huston, especially as a help to our faith, and to the clearness and intensity of our desires on their behalf. You pray with them, I trust, as well as for them?”

“Sometimes I do, but not often. They seem a little restless and inclined to whisper together while my eyes are closed; and so I have felt less embarrassment and more freedom in supplication to be alone at such seasons.”

“Let me persuade you, dear Mrs. Huston, to try a different plan. Take your little son and daughter each separately to the place of prayer, and, kneeling with them before the Lord, tell Him the name, the daily. history, the special want of each, and see if your heart is not opened to plead for them as you have never done before.”

Tears were in the eyes of the young mother, as she said with trembling lips, “I’ll try.”

When the evening came she had not forgotten her promise, but as she saw that Sarah, her daughter, was unusually peevish, she thought best to take her little son first to her chamber. Willie was a bright and pleasant boy of five years; and when his mother whispered her wish to pray with him, he gladly put his hand in hers and knelt by her side. As he heard his name mentioned before the Lord, a tender hush fell upon his young spirit, and he clasped his mother’s fingers more tightly as each petition for his special need was breathed into the ear of his Father in heaven. And did not the clinging of that little hand warm her heart to new and more fervent desire as she poured forth her supplication to the hearer and answerer of prayer?

When the mother and child rose from their knees, Willie’s face was like a rainbow, smiling through tears.

“Mamma, mamma,” said he, “I’m glad you told Jesus my name; now He’ll know me when I get to heaven. And when the kind angels that carry little children to the Saviour, take me and lay me in His arms, Jesus will look at me so pleasant., and say, ‘Why, this is Willie Huston: his mother told Me about him: how happy I am to see you, Willie!’ Won’t that be nice, mamma?”

Mrs. Huston never forgot that scene. And when she was permitted to see not only her dear Willie and Sarah, but the children afterwards added to her family circle, each successively confessing the Lord Jesus as his Saviour, she did indeed feel that the pastor’s way was the right way. So she resolved to recommend it to praying mothers by telling them this touching incident.

Messages of God’s Love 11/15/1908

Stories About Sunday Schools

Number 6.
School in a Log Cabin.

Do you remember the story I told you not long ago, of the young lady who had a Sunday-school in the woods? Perhaps to-day’ you would like to hear something about another school she once had in a log cabin. This little school was a long way from her own house, almost too far to walk, so she used to ride over on a small Indian pony. First, a little river had to be crossed, and then a wide stretch of plowed land. This led into a wood, and it was a pretty wood, full of flowers and berries, but so very, very full of mosquitoes, you wanted to hurry all you could over that part of the road. After the wood, came a couple of miles of what is called, “rolling prairie,” and it was very pleasant to ride up and down these green slopes. On one little hill stood a tiny cottage, with just one room for father and mother, six children and about thirty hens; but you see they were just beginning, and you cannot have everything at once.

Three little French children came from this house, and two more, joined them a little farther on. But when the teacher reached the end of her journey, such a lot of little bare headed, barefooted children rushed out to greet her, and they were so glad to see her; it made up for tiredness, and mosquito bites, and everything else. All had been got ready; two benches put in their places, and a board across them to make another seat, and mother’s . rocking chair placed in the middle for the teacher. What a queer place it was; only one room, to hold three big beds, a stove, a table, a sewing machine, and many other things. The floor was rough; made of hewed logs, and it did not go under the beds so the water in spring collected there, and the baby, creeping round, was in danger of a cold bath, but then it was of use, too, for the young ducks swam in it.

A great many children came to this school—French children, Half-breed children, English children, big boys, and little toddlers. They were not very good either. They had never been accustomed to sit still for a minute, or to learn anything, so they did not know how. And when twenty-five or thirty of them got packed together on the beds, on the benches, on the board, and the smallest on Teacher’s knee, it was hard to keep them still. One day, a boy had a kitten under his coat, just to make the others laugh, and sometimes the big boys would upset a bench and tumble all the tiny ones on their backs; and more than once there was a cry of, “The pigs are in the garden,” and all the boys were out through window or door in a second to drive them away, but they soon came back, and school went on as usual. Besides these troubles, a number of grown people would collect round the door; not to listen, but to talk about all kinds of things, which was very disturbing. But you must not think it was all difficulties. No, there were many bright days too; days when the young teacher’s heart was made glad by the earnest attention of the children. One day she told them about to birth of our Lord. It was the first lesson, and she began by asking if they had ever heard of Jesus, but all shook their heads. They had never heard that sweet and precious name, and when the story of His coming into this world as a little baby, He who was God over all, was told to them, they listened with the most intense interest.

You have heard all these stories, perhaps, since you were very small, but these neglected children had never heard of God. They did not know who had made the stars, and the sun and moon; the green trees, and the grass, and the animals and birds and insects, and as they heard, they were filled with astonishment. And may not we feel the same, when we think of the power and the wisdom of God? Can we not exclaim with David, “When I consider Thy heavens, the work of Thy fingers; the moon and the stars, which Thou hast ordained: what is man, that Thou art mindful of him?” Psa. 8:3. And yet God has been mindful of man. He has looked upon him in his misery and his sin, and sent His only begotten Son into this world to bear the punishment of those sins.

This was the good news these dear naughty little children heard. Did they believe it? Ah! that I cannot tell you, but if they did, why, then you know, they were saved. Have you believed it, are you saved?

One day the boys were very bad, and their kind friend went home with a heavy heart,. must she give them up? was it all of no use? No, she could not give them up. Had they not precious souls, that must live forever, somewhere? and there was no one else to tell them of the way to the Father’s house. She must go on, but there was one thing she could do, and that was to pray. All through the week she prayed, and the gracious Lord who has told us, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble,” heard when she called. Next Sunday every child was quiet; the boys all sat still and listened, and the teacher went home with a heart filled with thankfulness to God. I could tell you more about these boys and girls, but my story is growing too long, and I daresay, you are all tired, so We will leave them now, trusting that God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, has ere this shone into many of their dark hearts, and showed them something of His own beauty and worth. Do you know anything about this?

Look to Jesus, look and live;

Mercy at His hands receive;

He has died upon the tree, .

And His words are, “Look to Me.”

Come to Jesus, come and live;

He has endless life to give;

He from sin will set you free,

For His words are, “Come to Me.”

Rest in Jesus, there repose,

Shelter find from all thy foes;

Let His name be all thy plea,

For His words are, “Rest in Me.”

Messages of God’s Love 11/15/1908

Impatience

POOR Dick can’t wait in the morning for his little playmate to wake up, so he has to jump up on her bed, and scrape with his paws, and pull the cover off her, until he gets her fully awake, and then he expects a romp.

But why, you say, did he not wait; it would only have been a little while; and the little girl would have been awake, and he would have had his play just the same, and she would have had her full rest? Yes, why? just because he was impatient. And are you never impatient? can’t wait till the time comes for some particular thing and even act ugly about it? Ah, how often we see that and the papa or the mamma has to say, Have patience; wait till I can give it to you, or wait till the time comes for it, and so on. Ah, patience is a great virtue. God is spoken of in Rom. 15:5 as, “‘The God of patience.” There is one way He shows it above all others, and that is, in waiting on poor sinners to accept His offer of salvation through Jesus’ Christ. So the Scripture says, “THE LORD IS NOT SLACK CONCERNING HIS PROMISE, AS SOME MEN COUNT SLACKNESS; BUT IS LONGSUFFERING TO USWARD, NOT WILLING THAT ANY SHOULD PERISH, BUT THAT ALL SHOULD COME TO REPENTANCE.” 2 Peter 3:9.

Some people think because the Lord does not come right away and punish the evil-doer, that He has not meant what He said; but it is His patience or longsuffering, not willing that any should perish. What patience He has shown in waiting all these years on man, and is still waiting! Ah, may you not keep Him waiting on you, for the time is near when He will wait no longer, and all who have not come to Him through the Lord Jesus Christ, will have to take His judgment.

But perhaps someone may say, How can we learn to be patient? There are, perhaps, two ways we may learn it. One is by believing and meditating on the long suffering of God to us, and it enables us to be patient with others.

Another way is through troubles and trials. The Scripture says, “Tribulation worketh patience.” Trials, to the believer in the Lord Jesus, cause him to be cast on the Lord and he receives them from His hand and becomes patient through them. So this great virtue is to be learned in God’s presence through trials of different kinds. May all from their early day, seek to be patient, and learn from the impatience of little Dick what a selfish thing that is.

Messages of God’s Love 11/22/1908

Charley's Message

A True Story for the Young

The sun was looking fiercely down

One long, hot August day,

And each side of the glaring street

Had caught his burning ray.

The clock in old St. Mary’s church

Struck out — One — Two—Three Four

So slow, as if it wished to say,

“I never can strike more.”

And as the last long sound died out

Amongst the din and heat,

A young man came, as slowly, round

The corner of the street:

“But four o’clock! Then just two hours

Must thus go creeping on

Before the train that takes me home

Will start from Paddington!

“If I could only find some shade!

The Park?—That is too far;—

But better than the streets would be

The Baker Street Bazaar.”

And as he turned to go, he heard

A supplicating tone,

Which seemed to come from one who had

“A crossing of his own.”

Before him stood a little lad,

Not more than eight years old,

Whose large and worn-out clothes hung down

In many a tattered fold:

He held a great old giant broom,

With stick so tall and strong,

It looked as tho’ it might have swept

The boy himself along:

And he was all begrimed with dirt,

His head and feet all bare,

And on his bony, thin, long face

There was a look of care:

Yet the eyes that sparkled in that face

Seemed charged with childish fun:“

One copper, please, good gentleman,

One copper, only one.”

“And if I give you one, my boy,

Say, shall ybu spend it well?”

“I shall buy victuals with it, sir,

Please, sir, I boards myself.”

“Have you no mother, then, poor child,

No home to call your own?

Or, perhaps, you have got other friends

Somewhere in this great town?”

“I got no mother, gentleman,

She’s dead, and father, too;

So now I sweeps to keep myself,

I’ve nothing else to do:

“I lives with Biddy, she is kind,

And lets me sleep with Pat:

But then, please, sir, I boards mysel’,

And what I earn’s for that.”

His face flushed up with honest pride

As he stood and looked so true:—

It seemed to say, “I help myself.

God helps me so to do.”

“Well, here you are, my little man,

This ‘change’ will just be right;

Do what you can with it—’twill buy

Your supper for to-night.”

But as he spoke he felt quite sad,

Then said with kindly tone,

“What can he do? he is too young

To brave the world alone.”

But the boy’s heart beat fast with joy,

For as he sprang aside,

He saw the paper held three pence,

And a halfpenny beside.

“O thank ye, thank ye, jintleman,”

And he danced across the way,

Wondering whether ‘twould be right

To spend so much that day.

But scarce was reached his corner post

When a loaded ‘bus swept round;

And, ere he saw, the foremost horse

Had knocked him to the ground.

There was no time to move;—the wheels

Rolled on just where he lay;

And the senseless form of that poor child

Was bleeding on the way.

A crowd rushed up and gathered quick;

The child they thought was dead;

But the kind gentleman was first

To raise his drooping head.

Placing his hand on the child’s heart,

He felt a gentle beat,

But soon found out there was no power

To use his legs or feet.

Just then came a policeman up,

And the poor child they bore

Into a druggist’s shop hard by,

A few-doors off, or more.

The druggist was a kind, good

He was a doctor, too,—

He said, for the poor little one

He’d try what he could do.

On a soft couch, in a quiet room,

He had him gently laid;

But when he saw the dreadful hurts

The little body had,

He shook his head, and did not speak

Till, said the boy’s first friend,

“Which is the nearest hospital?

I’ll for a carriage send.”

“The hospital! No need of that;

You cannot move him more;

I do not think that he will live

Much longer than an hour.

“Poor little fellow!

We will try To ease him of his pain;

But much I fear he will not speak

Here in this world again.”

For half an hour they knelt beside

The little unknown one;

They bathed his forehead, rubbed his hands;

Ah! what more could be done?—

For he was dying fast, they knew;

His breath came slow and weak;

When all at once he looked and smiled,

And seemed to try to speak.

His first kind end then said to him ,

“Do you remember me?”

He gasped”, ‘You’re just the jintleman

As the coppers gived to me.”

“Try once again, and ask him now

If he no message sends

To any one with whom he lives,—

Perhaps we can find his friends.”

But no, his eyes grew fixed and dull,—

He could not understand:

While still “the coppers” tight were clasped

In his cold little hand.

The young man stood with pitying eye,

Much wondering whence he came,

Thinking how sad that he should die,

And no one know his name;

Yet sadder if this little one,

With nought on earth to love,

Should know not of the Father’s home

For such as him above!

And soon he thought he’d try once more

If the poor child could speak,

Although it seemed almost too late,

His breath it was so weak.

So in a soft, low, earnest tone,

Said, bending o’er him low,

“Listen, my poor boy, what I say

I wish that you should know;

You have been very badly hurt,

And must die very soon:

Is there no message you would like

To send to any one?”

“Yes, place,” he murmured, as a smile

Broke o’er his dying face,

And his weak little hand he tried

In his kind friend’s to place:

“Yes, plase,—my Sunday lady tell,—

And give her—Charley’s love,—

And that going to Jesus, now,—

To Jesus,—’ome,—above.”

“Where does she ‘ive?” the young man asked,

“Or what’s the lady’s name?”

But there was silence when he spoke,

No other answer came.

The little head had fallen back,

The smile gone from his cheek;

That feeble voice in this sad world

No other word would speak!

A moment more, then all was still;

The happy soul was gone,—

Called to the heavenly home above,

This little unknown one,

To hear his Father’s loving voice

Along the gold-paved street,

Which cannot soil his pure white robe,

Nor hurt his tender feet;

Where he’ll ne’er feel the burning heat,

Nor piercing cold, or rain;

Nor want of food, or friend, or love,

Can ever know again!

Silent beside the lifeless form,

With sad and silent gaze,

Awhile the young man stood;—a tear

Fell on the dead child’s face.

I Iark! The slow clock strikes out once morel—

One — Two — Three — Four — and Five,

‘Tis just an hour since first he saw

This poor dead child alive!

The funeral!—he talked of that

With Charley’s other friend;

Then knew he must not longer stay,

He’d no more time to spend.

The train rushed on which bore him far

From London dust and heat;

But still he heard the old clock strike,

Still saw that shop and street;

Still sat beside the little couch

The faintest word to hear;

And Charley’s dying message still

Kept falling on his ear.

The “Sunday Lady’s” home and name

The young man sought in vain;

Perhaps she knows not why that child

Ne’er came to school again.

So the message has not yet been told

To her for whom ‘twas given;

And Charley now may give it her

Himself, one day, in heaven.

Messages of God’s Love 11/22/1908

The Indian Chief

In our picture we see two Indians in their canoe, which is a common thing for them to have, for they like to go out fishing and it is the easiest way they have of travel from one place to another. But the little story I want to tell you, is not illustrated in our picture, for it is the case of a little Indian girl who led her father to the Lord Jesus.

God sometimes uses the children to touch the parents’ hearts, and thus encourages us to go on sowing the seed, not knowing where the gospel may be carried.

Amongst the Sioux Indians there was a chief who had a beautiful little daughter. He had, for a long time, watched the life of the missionaries, and one day he carried his child to them, asking that she might be brought up like a white woman, and not like a wild Indian one. Of course, the missionaries very gladly undertook the charge, and taught her in their school amongst the other Indian children. There she heard of Jesus for the first time, and her young heart opened to Him, and she trusted Him as her own Saviour.

After a time she was taken ill, and the chief was sent for. As he sat by her side, she told hint “the old, old story, of Jesus and His love,” in her own simple language, and begged him to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as the One who had died for him, and soon after this she passed away.

The chief sorrowed much for his lovely flower, but he remembered her words, and sought to learn about Jesus from the missionaries.

His heart, now so soft, was easily won for Christ, and he was the first of the tribe- to be baptized.

Thus a little child was used of God to lead her father to the Lord Jesus.

“God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.” 1 Cor. 1:27.

I trust this may encourage all my young readers, who can say, “I know the Lord Jesus is my Saviour,” to take every opportunity to speak of that blessed Saviour to others, and entreat them to accept Him now, while it is the day of salvation.

“COME, SEE A MAN, WHICH TOLD ME ALL THINGS THAT EVER I DID: IS NOT THIS THE CHRIST?” John 4:29.

Messages of God’s Love 11/29/1908

Habits

EVERY Christian child should seek to form good habits—habits which will help them in life. Now shall we link a word with each letter of the word Habit which may remind us of some useful habits to form?

Let H stand for

Helpfulness,

then. Let us seek to be of use to others.

Let A stand for

Application.

It is a great thing to give ourselves to whatever we are engaged in, whether it be work or play. If we apply ourselves we shall succeed.

Let B stand for

Brightness.

Look on the bright side of things. As the hymn says, “Count your many blessings,” and as the psalm. says, “Forget not all His benefits.”

Only this morning I was reading a strange piece of poetry about two poor old women, one named Sarah Ann and the other Mary Jane. Sarah. Ann always grumbled, for she looked on the dark side. Mary Jane always rejoiced, for she looked on the bright side. Sarah Ann was miserable. Mary Jane was happy. It is a good poem to read.

Let I stand for

Industry.

Do not waste your time. Fill it with what is profitable and good and useful. “Killing time” is no employment for a Christian. We should seek to gather up the fragments of time, that nothing be lost, and give yourselves to useful employment.

Let T stand for

Truthfulness.

“In fun and in earnest be true,” is a good reminder for us all. Be exact. Do not exaggerate, never deceive by word or deed. It is said of George Washington that truthfulness so marked him that “he could not tell a lie.” Let your life he such that this may be able to be said of YOU.

There are many other good habits, but these are all of which 1 must speak now, and they cover a good deal of ground.

Children, form good habits, and shun bad ones as you would venomous serpents, for they bite.

Messages of God’s Love 11/29/1908

The Two Nephews, Or, Fearful and Faithful

THE young man whom I shall call Fearful was a fine young fellow to look at. He was so much taller than all his companions that if you had seen him pass down the street you would have stopped to look at him, and would probably have exclaimed, “What a giant!”

One day, some of the animals belonging to his father were missing. I do not know how it happened. Perhaps the man in charge of them had forgotten to fasten the gate of the pasture in which they were kept. Anyhow, they were gone.

His father called young Fearful, and told him he must do his best to find these straying animals. Perhaps he would , find traces of their hoofs along the dusty roads; or perchance he might meet someone who had seen them go by, and could give him some clue to their whereabouts.

So Fearful started out upon his quest, accompanied by one of the servants from his father’s farm. For a long time he could hear nothing of the lost animals. At last, when he was almost disposed to give up the search and return home, the servant suggested that they should go on to a city near by, where a wonderful man lived who was known far and wide as “The Seer.” They thought that perhaps he would be able to tell them the way they should go.

On the way to the place where “The Seer” lived they met a group of young girls going to fetch water from a spring. From these they learned where “The Seer” was to be found; and, going a little further on, they met “The Seer” himself.

They were not disappointed in their expectations, for “The Seer” knew all about the straying creatures and could tell them that they had been found.

But “The Seer” had something to say to young Fearful that filled him with surprise. He invited him to come to dinner with him. He had a large company at his house that day, for thirty people had been invited. To his great astonishment, Fearful was asked to sit in the best seat, as if he were the most honored guest. A special dish of meat was brought by the cook and set before him.

That night Fearful slept at “The Seer’s” house. Early next morning “The Seer” awoke him, and said that he would accompany him part of the way home. They told the servant to go on ahead. When they were alone, “The Seer” took out a small flask of oil, arid poured some of it upon Fearful’s head. Then he told him that God had chosen him to be the king of the country. A crown would be put upon his head and a sceptre in his hand. He should sit upon a throne and reign over his fellow-countrymen!

What a marvelous secret was this that “The Seer” had to tell Fearful! We should have thought that he would be filled with impatience to get home and tell his father and friends the wonderful news.

While on his homeward way he met his uncle, who wanted to know where he had been, and what “The Seer” had said to him.

Fearful replied: “He told us plainly that the asses were found.”

But he did not say a word to his uncle about the wonderful good fortune that was to be his.

Perhaps he thought his uncle would laugh at him and refuse to believe a word of it. Anyhow, he kept his lips closed, and lost an opportunity of telling his uncle of the great honor that had been promised him.

Long years had rolled by, when tidings came to the ears of another young man, whom I will call Faithful, that his uncle’s life was in great danger. He had been arrested, for no other crime than that of preaching the gospel, and had been imprisoned in a strong castle.

His enemies had planned to ask the chief captain to bring him to trial the next day, and about forty of the more violent ones had formed a plot to kill him on his way to the court.

His young nephew, Faithful, chanced to hear of this plot, and he resolved to save his uncle’s life by revealing the conspiracy to the chief captain.

Full well he knew that his uncle was the most hated man in all that city, and that if it were known that he, too, was on the side of the Lord Jesus, his life also would be in’ danger.

But the brave youth did not hesitate. He said, as it ‘were: “I care not who knows that I am on the same side as my uncle.” He faced the wrath and malice of the cruel persecutors in order to serve the one that was suffering for Christ’s sake.

My story is ended; and now I will ask you: Which would you rather be like, Fearful or Faithful? Would you rather be ashamed of being known as a Christian, or be a bold confessor of Christ?

Perhaps you would like to know the real names of Fearful and Faithful. I cannot tell you Faithful’s real name, but his uncle’s name was Paul. You can read the story for yourself in Acts 23. Fearful’s real name was Saul, and his story is told in 1 Samuel 9, 10.

Boys and girls, think over what I have told you about Saul and his uncle, and Paul and his nephew. And remember these two texts:—

“The Fearful and unbelieving. . . shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone.” Rev. 21:8: “Be thou Faithful until death, and 1 will give thee a crown of life.” Rev. 2:10.

Messages of God’s Love 11/29/1908

What Will You Do With That Voice in Eternity?

A MINISTER of Jesus was struck with the surpassing sweetness of the voice of a young lady who sat near him. Being afterwards introduced to her, he inquired, with much anxiety, whether she loved the Saviour, and belonged to His fold. She replied, without evincing much interest in the subject, “I am not a Christian, and so I suppose that I do not love the Saviour.” “Then, my dear young friend,” said the minister, “what will you do with that voice in eternity? Shall it be spent in uttering the wafflings of the lost, for ever and ever?” He said no more, but turned, with a saddened heart, and left her to her own reflections. But that solemn question followed her everywhere—it rang in her ears by day, and mingled with her dreams in still hours of the night. Nor did it ever leave her till she found peace in believing in Jesus—till she was prepared joyfully to sing the song of redeeming love with the people of God on earth, and now she waits to join the song that shall ascribe all honor and glory and blessing unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb, for ever and ever.

Messages of God’s Love 11/29/1908

Bible Questions for December

Answers to Bible Questions for October

“And be not,” etc. Romans 12:2.

“For it is written,” etc. “ 14:11.

“Recompense to no,” etc. “ 12:17.

“For Christ is the,” etc. “ 10:4.

“For whosoever,” etc. “ 10:13.

“That if thou.” etc. “ 10:9.

“Abhor that which,” etc. “ 12:9.

Bible Questions tor December

Answers to be found in 1 Corinthians from beginning of chapter 9 to end of the Epistle.

Write the verse containing the words, “He was buried.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Christ,” “woman,” “man,” “God.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Watch,’ “Stand fast,” “Be strong.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Without charge.”

Write the verse containing the words, “God hath prospered him.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Standeth,” “Fall.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Yet in your sins.”

Messages of God’s Love 12/6/1908

The Dead Sea-Gull

No doubt, many of my young readers like to look back and think of their summer holidays, and the pleasure they had in the country. Some of you were by the seaside; others in the hilly country, and others in the cities, and had the opportunity of enjoying the fresh air in the parks at times. But, I am sure, wherever you were, and however much you may have enjoyed the scenery around you and were thankful to God for it, you surely have not missed noticing the fact that death marks the whole scene.

Look at that little company of children playing happily on the rocks by the shore. They have discovered a dead sea-gull. They stopped their play and the little boy picked it up by the wing, as if he disliked to have much to do with it, but curious enough not to let it alone. Ah, everything around us reminds us that sin has come in. It is not how the fair creation that came from God’s hand, but it is marred by sin. Beautiful even now as it is, letting us see God’s wonderful power as Creator, it is nothing 10 be compared to what it must have been before sin came in.

It is a wonderful thing that God has not only brought death upon this world, as the result of sin, but He sent His Son into this world and had Him die and He willingly came to die.

Why, we may ask, did God and His Son do that? I trust all my readers know and believe that the Lord Jesus Christ was absolutely holy and because He was holy, death had no claim upon Him. That death of His was for man because of his sin, and He tasted death for every thing, and by His death He will deliver the whole creation from the bondage of corruption. So while sin has ruined God’s fair creation, and death reigns on every side at present, that blessed result of the death of the Lord Jesus will yet be realized, and God will finally have all things perfect, and never allow sin to come in again and mar His works.

Do you think you would like to see that perfect scene, and never do another wrong thing, and be able to enjoy all that God has done, and be happy in His presence? Ah, that will be your portion, if you believe that Jesus died for you. He said on that cross, “My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me.” He was there in the sinners’ place, and all who will believe in Him, will never be forsaken of God, but will be- accepted and their portion to enjoy will be all the blessed results of His death. May all who read these lines believe and rejoice in what He is and what He has done.

“THE WAGES OF SIN IS DEATH; BUT THE GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE, THROUGH JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD.” Romans 6:23.

Messages of God’s Love 12/6/1908

Sambo's Love for the Bible

THE story I am going to tell you is about a negro’s love for the blessed Book that tells us the way of salvation. The African’s name was Sambo, and he lived with his mother on an estate in Jamaica. The planter on whose estate they worked was a kind master; and his slaves, therefore, were much happier than the slaves of many other planters.

Sambo’s mother had a small part of the New Testament, which she highly valued; and,, as Sambo could read, when his mother, who was an old woman, came to lie on her death bed, she bade her dear boy farewell, and with her last breath told him to read his book; by which she meant the little portion of the sacred volume of which I have just spoken. Sambo loved his mother, and did not forget her dying words; but read his book every day, so that he could, in time, repeat a great deal of it by heart, and used to repeat it to his companions, while they were at work together.

But with constant use, poor Sambo’s book, as he called it, became less and less, until it was nearly all worn away; and although he could remember what had once been in it, his comrades would laugh when he repeated it to them, and say, “Ah! it may be all very true, Sambo; but show us in de book, show us in de book.”

Now, Sambo could not do this; but he heard that in Kingston, the chief town in Jamaica, there lived a missionary, who kept a store of Bibles, to sell to anyone who wished to purchase them.

I should have told you before, that when Sambo got old, his kind master gave him his freedom; but allowed him still to live in a cottage on the planter’s estate, and to cultivate the little garden attached to it. Kingston, where the missionary lived, was fifty miles from Sambo’s home, and the negro was now an old man; yet he determined to go all that way on foot to buy a Bible; and he actually did so. He went to the missionary’s house; and when he saw the nice-looking Bibles, contrasting them in his mind with the “book” he had thought so much of, he was delighted and surprised, and eagerly exclaimed, “O, Massa! how large! how fine! how great! how good!”

“Yes, my friend,” answered the missionary, “that is very true; they are large, and fine, and great, and good.” Sambo then expressed his wish to purchase one, and inquired the price.

“A dollar and a half,” replied the missionary. The negro’s countenance fell instantly.

“What is the matter, my friend?” asked the missionary, observing the sudden change.

“O, Massa!” said poor Sambo, “dis all me hab,” showing a dollar. The missionary then told him, that even at the price the book was offered, it was considerably under the expense the Bible Society had been to in publishing it; but the poor negro could only say, “Massa, me berry sorry, me hab no more dan dis.” The missionary then inquired of Sambo what his name was, and from whence he came; and he was greatly astonished when he found how this negro had traveled on foot in that hot climate, in his eagerness to obtain the book of God; and knowing the negro’s master, after a little consideration, he said,

“Well Sambo, you have come a long way, and I do not like to send you home empty; will you promise, if I let you have a Bible, to pay me the half-dollar as soon as you can obtain it?”

“O, Massa,” replied the African, “me will, indeed me will!” and having received the precious volume, he set off on his way homewards.

I do not know how long Sambo was in travelling the fifty miles; but it was on an evening that he came in sight of home, just as his companions were leaving their work, who, as soon as they saw him said—”Sambo! well Sambo!” Sambo held up his book, while he shouted “Joy! Joy!” They soon gathered around him; “Read, Sambo, read,” was the general cry. The old negro, weary as he was, sat down and read a chapter; he then closed the book.

“Go on, go on!” they said. “No,” answered Sambo, “me no go on, it no paid for; how much you, Jack? how much you, Tom? how much you Betty?” and thus he went on until he had obtained from them in subscriptions enough to complete the payment of his Bible; and after the lapse of only one day, Sambo again set out for Kingston; so that by the time he returned home, the poor old negro had journeyed on foot two hundred miles to obtain a Bible to read to his companions.

The story of Sambo’s love for the Bible, and his self-denying exertions to get one, was told at a meeting of the Bible Society, by one of its agents. May it stir up all who may have the Bible at their doors, without taking a long journey to get one, nor needing to pay such a price today as he had in these days, to seek to possess and to value the precious treasure, which is able ‘to make them “wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Tim. 3:15.

“I will delight myself in Thy statutes: I will not forget Thy word.” Psa. 119:16.

Messages of God’s Love 12/6/1908

Little Tollie

ONCE you might have seen at our Sunday-school a little child of five or six years old.

We well remember a preacher who is a great favorite with the children coming to address them one afternoon. He spoke with earnestness and power, and at the close asked any little boys or girls who would trust in Jesus to put up their hands. Up went Tollie’s hand, but no one paid particular attention to her that afternoon.

The next Lord’s clay before the school opened, the superintendent spoke to us. He told us, With quivering lip and tear-filled eye, that early in the week he had been sent for to visit Tollie. He had not been able to go the same day, but found opportunity to do so the day after.

When he got to our little scholar’s home, he found the blinds all down.

He knocked at the door, which was opened by the child’s mother, who burst into tears and told him that her little girl was dead.

She had died in convulsions. Between the attacks, however, she was always singing one of two hymns. It was either

“Jesus loves me, this I know,

For the Bible tells me so:

Little ones to Him belong,

They are weak, but He is strong”;

“The heavenly Bridegrooni soon will come,

To claim His bride and take her home,

To dwell with Him on high.

Trim your lamps and be ready,

For the Bridegroom’s nigh.”

When Mr. J____ told us all this, we all remembered how our little girl had put up her hand just the week before, and we all were glad indeed that she had really trusted Jesus.

Evidently in her sharp, short illness thoughts of Jesus’ love filled her little heart.

Think of her between those agonizing convulsions, singing with her weak little voice in the dismal court.

She had taken the love of Jesus home to herself and believed it.

Her voice is hushed on earth, but being dead she yet speaketh, and 1 am sure, could she now speak to you, her message would be: “Come to Jesus and trust in Him; He will save you.”

She did not know how soon she had to go; neither do you. So, if you are not saved yet, as you read this put your trust in Jesus. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved” Acts 16:31.

Messages of God’s Love 12/6/1908

Protection

ONE bright summer morning, there could be seen at the garden gate on an old farm, a little girl on her way to the barn yard; but just as she got to the gate what should she meet but two geese and their little goslings; they hissed and hissed at her, as. much as to say, You must not touch our babies. The little girl had no intention of touching them, and would have been afraid to go near those big geese, but they could not understand that, so they hissed at her to keep her away. As she managed to get to one side, she could pass them, and then the geese were quiet again, and no doubt felt they had accomplished a great deal in protecting their little ones.

The love of the parent, whether of many of the lower animals or the human family, is very great, and in many instances have put themselves in the danger, and suffered so as to screen their children.

I learned of a mother, whose little girl was in danger of being burned, and she ran through the fire and got badly burned about the face and head, but she saved her baby. She suffered with those burns for a long time, and finally they were healed, but they left terrible scars, and no one liked much to look at her. Her little girl grew up to be a big lady, beautiful, and attractive, and she was ashamed of her mother, and did not like to let people know she was her mother, because she was so disfigured.

I think I hear some of my readers say, What a shame that she should have felt so, seeing her mother had loved her so much as to be burned in order to save her. She should have loved her mother all the more, and been glad to tell others of her mother’s great love.

There is a love that surpasses the love of a parent, and that is the love of God. He has “so loved. the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” He knew the danger we were in, and that it would mean that we would be banished from His presence for ever and ever, and the Lord Jesus—His Son was willing to come and take our place as poor helpless sinners. M any of my readers do believe in Him, and let me ask such, Are you ashamed to confess Him before others and tell them of His love and what He has done and that, now, He has wounds in His hands and His side, and is as a lamb that has been slain? Or are you like the girl who was ashamed to confess her mother before others? If it was wrong of her to be ashamed of her mother after such great protecting love as she had shown, what a shame it would be if any of you would be ashamed to confess the Lord Jesus, after He so loved you, as even, to die under the judgment of God on Calvary’s cross for you a sinner.

May the little incident of the geese and their protecting love for their little ones, cause you to think of the greater love of God giving His Son, and of the love of that Son to be willing to come from the glory and die in your place; and then seek not to be like the young lady with her mother, but confess the Lord Jesus and delight in doing so.

“WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH ON HIM SHALL NOT BE ASHAMED.” Rom. 10:11.

Messages of God’s Love 12/13/1908

All's Well That Ends Well

THAT does not mean that a man may live an ill life and be all right at last, for a wrong road can never lead to the right goal, and there is a great deal of truth in that old English proverb, “Good beginning maketh good ending.”

When a youth takes his “first glass” because it seems manly to do so, or lays his first quarter on a horse in order to be like some older folks, he has entered a road which cannot possibly end well, because it is thoroughly bad at the start, and downward it winds, and darker it becomes, the adder lurking on it with poisened fangs to strike and sting, and ere long he who starts on such a road may find himself unable to stop, like the stage driver who when dying moaned, “1 am going downhill, and I can’t find the brakes.”

Sin is a terrible thing. It may at the start appear fair and pleasant as . the bubbling spring, but the end is a dark and tempestuous sea. It always ruins where it reigns; when it is finished it brings forth death.

There is a saying that “chickens come home to roost.” Certainly sins do: you may think that you have flung the consequences of them far away from you, but like the Australian boomerang, they may return to the feet of the thrower.

You may excuse yourself by saying that your sins are small ones, but remember the little foxes spoil the tender grapes, and a small leak may sink a great ship; the edge of the wedge may be thin, but if the devil handles the hammer to drive it home, the breach will soon be wide.

My advice is, leave the crooked road to crooked folk, and make at once for the only road that can end well, and let your decision be, “Christ for me now and for ever.”

A good many people want to be on the right road, but they also love the wrong one. They remind me of a little fellow of whom I have heard. He had made some very fine mud pies and was sitting beside them crying bitterly. Someone who knew him passing by, inquired as to the cause of his grief. “I want to go borne to dinner,” he sobbed. “Well, my lad, it is just dinner-time; run along home at once.” “But I want to stay here,” cried the little fellow. And because he could not do both he sat and wept.

Ah! that is: a true picture of a good many lads: they would like to have both —the mud pies and the bread of life, the one now and the other hereafter. But it is quite clear that the prodigal boy of the parable could not sit by the swine trough and the father’s table at the same time: one must be left if the other is to be enjoyed; so if you would walk in the road that ends well, you must leave the road “the end of which is death.”

I hope I shall not be accused of harping too much upon one string if I continue for a while longer to warn you as to the downward way, It may seem right to you, and those who tread it may appear as merry as the day is long, but you will be wise, dear lads, if you look on to the end, remembering that only that is well which ends well; then let us ask the question, “How will it end?”

A young man at one of the universities declared that he would pluck the fruit of every tree of pleasure that grew in this paradise below, and he did his best to carry out his vow. He was a talented man, “a lord of language” he called himself, and he spoke the truth. But the end of it was a felon’s cell and a dishonored name and grave. It did not end well, and only that is well that ends well.

The farmer sows his seed with the harvest in view; a bad sowing means a bad harvest. As you make your bed, so you must lie; as you build, so will be your house; an ill life makes an ill end.

Now let us consider that which ends well. A noble warrior when laying aside his shield, and sword, and buckler, said, “1 have fought a good fight, I have

finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall, give unto me.” Ah! Paul finished well, and it is well with him forever; but he would never have reached such a glorious end if he had not said, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?”

There must be a bowing to the Lord Jesus; only surrender to Him can put your feet in the right way. You cannot direct your own steps. We need first a Saviour, then a guide: the Lord Jesus is both. He is the way, the truth, and the life, and all who trust in Him have all they need for ever. Do not be afraid to commit yourself in simple trust to Him. He will lead you in wisdom’s ways, and all her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace.

If the past troubles your conscience, bring it to the Lord Jesus. His blood can cleanse away all its stains. If you fear as you look into the future, bring it to Him, for He can make you safe for ever. If the present is full of difficulties, bring it to Him, for He can clear the way and give you peace and joy from day to day. In short, come with your past, present, and future to Him, and let Him put you right, then all will be well along the road, and all will be well at the end of it too.

Messages of God’s Love 12/13/1908

Four Little Boys

What they heard and what they did.

A SHORT time ago, as a servant of Christ was preaching on the coming of the Lord in a seaside town, four little boys, belonging to a boarding school there, happened to be among the audience. The preacher showed from Scripture that when the Lord comes He will first of all take every believer to Himself All such who have “fallen asleep” since the beginning of the world, from Abel or Adam, down to the moment that Jesus rises from His Father’s throne, will be raised in glorified bodies, and all who are living on the earth at that time will he changed and caught away -together with them to meet the Lord in the air” (1 Thess. 4:16, 17; Phil. 3:21; 1 Cor. 15: 51, 52). Then “when they that are ready” through faith in Christ have thus gone in with Him to the marriage the door is shut” (Matt. 25: 10). It will be of no use then to knock at the door, saying, “Lord, Lord, open unto us;” for it will be too late (verse 11, 12); for, of course, all who are not ready, all who are not believers, are shut out and left behind, so that they come into all those terrible judgments foretold all through the books of prophecy, as to be poured out on this earth.

Well, these four little boys went home to their boarding school thinking and talking- solemnly of what they had heard, and what do you think they did? \\Thy, as they were very much concerned about it, and knew that their kind governess was a real disciple of the Lord Jesus, in whose teaching and prayers they had full confidence, they put their young heads together and wrote the following little letter, a touching appeal when you consider that it told how anxious they were to be saved:

“Miss____. We find from Mr. R—’s sermon that you and all the believers may all be taken away to heaven, and we left behind. We should like you to pray with us about it.”

Having all signed their names to this, they quietly laid it on her Bible and left it there.

I have no doubt at all that the cry of their young hearts has been heard, and the prayers of their Christian guide and teacher on their behalf answered by Him who proved His love for the little ones when He was here on the earth (Mark 10:13-16), and who is “the same yesterday, to-day, and for ever.” My purpose in telling you of it is to show you that even little boys can understand this solemn truth connected with the coming of the Lord, namely, that only those who love Him will be caught away to meet Him in the air above the clouds.

Now, as this may take place at any moment suddenly, I ho -)e. that if you are not yet “ready” by believing in Jesus, you will not rest until you arc so, but be in earnest to get salvation at once by the blood of Christ like the four little boys.

Messages of God’s Love 12/13/1908

Trust in the Good Shepherd

Jesus, bless thy little lamb,

Weak and foolish as I am;

Bear me in Thy mighty arm

Safe from every fear and harm.

Thou did’st call me to Thy side,

Trembling in the desert wide;

Bad’st me all my bleatings cease,

Hushed my fears, and gave me peace.

Lord, Thou art my Shepherd kind;

All I need in Thee I find;

But I fear my silly heart,

Lest I should from Thee depart.

Call me nearer, then, I cry,

Let me in Thy bosom lie;

Turn these wandering eyes, I pray,

From each vanity away.

Teach me what that sorrow meant,

When those crie,, to heaven were sent;

When in blood and tears and grief,

Thou did’st call—but no relief.

Let my childish follies be

Drowned in that deep agony;

Let Thy death, Thy wounds, Thy woe,

Make me all sin’s vileness know.

A ml when’er in folly’s way,

Thy poor lamb begins to stray,

May Thy dying love and pain

Turn my heart to Thee again.

Messages of God’s Love 12/13/1908

Gethsemane

IN our picture this week we have a view of the Garden of Gethsemane as it is at the present time; but as we look at it, our thoughts turn to that time when the Lord Jesus Christ went into it, before He was betrayed into the hands of sinful men, and where He was in a great agony.

Have you thought, dear reader, what caused the Lord Jesus Christ to be in such agony of mind that night? There was no one else troubled like Himself. He had told His disciples He was to be betrayed and they were sorrowful about that, and wondered who would do it; but they knew not what the great sorrow was that the Lord had to pass through. They had been with Him in many other temptations, but at that time the Lord was going to be alone. He took three of them apart to have them watch and pray with Him, but He goes a little way from them and they, instead of watching and praying, fell asleep while He was in great agony before God His Father about the awful cup of judgment He was about to take for sinners. He was in communion with His Father, but soon He was to be forsaken of God, Ah, dear reader, you may never have been troubled about your sins, nor the judgment you have deserved for them, but the Lord Jesus could not think of sins, and the awful penalty and what it would be to be under them all, without it giving Him great agony; and He prayed that the cup might be taken away from Him, but He said, “Not My will but Thine be done.” If God was to be glorified, and we were to be saved, the cup must not pass away from Him.

So the Lord takes it from His Father’s hand. All that would happen to Him by sinful men, was received from His Father, but, when on the cross, God dealt with Him for sin, and sins were charged to Him, and God did not commune with Him then, but forsook Him on account of His being the sin bearer. That was the time when He was drinking the cup of judgment in all, its fulness from the hand of God. So He said “My God, My God, why halt Thou forsaken Me.” Ah, God could not look on His beloved Son when my sins were laid upon Him, but Jesus was superior to all the sins and judgment, and after He had taken all and left none for me, He said, “It is finshed.” Oh, what a Saviour to take my place willingly, and take all the judgment I deserved, and, unsaved reader, your sins and your judgment too, if you will but believe in Him.

If you will take Him as your Saviour, you can then say along with those who believe in Jesus, “WHO HIS OWN SELF BARE OUR SINS IN HIS OWN BODY ON THE TREE, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.” 1 Peter 2:24.

Messages of God’s Love 12/20/1908

I Learned to Read When I Had a Beard

WHAT a strange title, is it riot? You will soon see the meaning of it.

It was the favorite saying of an old Christian, named, Worsuph, who lived near the Pyramids. He once belonged to the Coptic church, and was as ignorant of God, and the ways of salvation as any of the poor Copts. Worsuph was not taught to read when he was a child. It is different now;; there are very few children who are not taught to read, and it is an easy matter to teach a child, but you can have no idea of the trouble and toil it is for a grown person to learn to read, no matter how intelligent he or she may be. I once tried to teach a grown girl to read, and she took great pains, but she got on very slowly.

There are not many things which children can do better than grown people, but they can learn better, and more easily.

Worsuph was a grown man when he said to the Coptic priest in his village: “My father, could one as old as I learn to read?”

“Yes, my son,” replied the kind-hearted man. Then fetching some paper, he wrote out the Arabic A, B, C, very clearly.

“Learn this, and then come to me again,” said he, handing Worsuph his first lesson book.

When the scholar returned, having mastered his alphabet, the priest wrote a short verse from the Bible for him. Would you like to know what it was? You will find it in your English Bible, for it was the first verse of one of the Psalms of David, (Psa. 32): “Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.”

What wonderful words! We cannot doubt that the Holy Spirit put it into the heart of the Coptic priest to write this verse for his scholar.

“Learn this by heart,” he said, “and then write the words out.”

Worsuph did so, and on his third visit, he received a copy of the Lord’s prayer to be learned, and then written, as before. Next he had a part of the New Testament given him, and at last a Bible. Before very long, Worsuph had quite conquered the difficulty of learning to read, and even began to read from his Bible in the Coptic church. All his friends were astonished.

“Yes,” said Worsuph ,”I can read from God’s Book; I have learned from my father.” He called the good priest “father,” because it was the custom to do so, and, indeed, he had reason to have love and gratitude to him who had so patiently taught him, and thus giving him a treasure which could never be taken away.

As Worsuph read his Bible, he now and then came to something which made him stop and think. When reading the law God gave to His people of old, he found in Exodus. 20:3, 4, 5, that He had commanded them, saying, “Thou shalt have no other gods before Me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing. . . . Thou shalt not bow clown thyself to them, nor serve them.”

“How is this?” he said, “Our Coptic church is full of pictures!”

Another day, Worsuph read those words of the Lord Jesus to His disciples, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by Me.” John 14:6.

“This is strange,” said he; “our church teaches us that we must draw nigh to God, not in the name of Christ only, but we must pray to the saints, and to the good angels. We have forgotten this word of our Lord, who says, ‘I am the way.’”

At last, someone told Worsuph that there were some people, who said as he did, that it was not according to the word of God to worship pictures, or images; or to pray to saints and angels, and he traveled a long way that he might see them, and learn from them. At the end of his journey he found some missionaries, who had come from the far-off land of America, to teach the people in Bible lands of the Saviour whom they loved. They joyfully received Worsuph, and wondered at all he had learned all alone.

“We can teach you nothing,” they said.

We need not be surprised at this, for Worsuph had the word of God, which is truth, and the Holy Spirit to guide him into all truth. Whenever he wished to encourage anyone to learn to read, he would say, “Look at me; I learned to read when I had a beard.”

Dear readers of “Messages of Love,” this is an old, but true story, and it shows us that Worsuph was in earnest, and you see how God blessed him. We are not told how long it took him to learn to read, but we can conclude it was a long time. You all know how to read, but do you put your knowledge to such good advantage? Are you learning from that blessed Book the way of salvation? Do you know Him as your own Saviour, who said, “I am the door; by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved”? (John 10:9.)

Messages of God’s Love 12/20/1908

Lost

A SHORT time ago, I saw a little boy standing in one of the streets of B—, crying very bitterly. His loud sobs drew a great many people around him, some of whom soon began to ask him what was the matter. Poor little fellow, his distress was so great, that he was a long time before he could say. At last he cried, “I’ve—lost—my—mother.” He had left his mother’s side to look into the store windows, and when he looked round again, she was gone. Inquiries were made, his parent was searched for, and at last was found; and the little boy was soon again by his mother’s side, much to their mutual joy.

I thought as I beheld the scene, what a picture of the condition of every little boy and girl, yea, man and woman too, —by nature lost!

My dear little reader, such is your position by nature, and condition, too, now, if you have not believed in Jesus, the Saviour of the lost. Oh, how fearful a position to be in! Think of it, my dear little one, and may God by His Spirit bring you to know your need of Jesus, the, “good Shepherd,” who came all the way from heaven to seek and to Save such; who, when He was here upon this earth, “took little children up in His arms and blessed them.” Dot hear you say, “I should like to have been with Him then”? Well, dear little one, He is the same loving, gentle Shepherd now

as He was then. He loves “the little children” still, and He is as willing to save you now. Will you not come to Him? He has said you may. “Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” The words which He spake, when down here—”Suffer little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of God”—are as true now as when He first uttered them. Oh come, then, dear little one, to Him, believe on Him He has said, “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” Observe, dear child, what the little boy did when he knew he was lost; he (lid not wander from street to street in search of his parent, for in doing this he would have got farther off from her. No; he stood still, and cried: hence he was soon found.

Now, my dear little one, I would ask you if the case of this little boy in any wav describes your own. Do you feel that you are a lost sinner? God’s word declares you are, that you are dead in trespasses and sins. Young as you are, you have done that which you ought not to have done; hence the truth of God’s word: “All have sinned.” You were born in sin; and what a hateful thing “sin” is in God’s sight! for even the holy Jesus. when He was made sin for us on the cross, was forsaken of God.

It is a sense of this that I want you to have, because it will bring you to feel your need of Christ. When a little boy or girl, or any one, is sick, they need a physician; and it is their being so that brings them to feel their need of him. May the sense of your need of Jesus, dear little one, bring you by faith • to Him: He alone can save you.

Messages of God’s Love 12/20/1908

Enoch and Methuselah

(Gen. 5:21-27.)

“The dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”—l. Cor.

15:52.

“And Enoch walked with God”—how blest was he,

Translated, so that death he should not see!

And soon a multitude shall thus arise,

Changed and caught up in glory to the skies,

With millions ransomed from the cold dark tomb,

Who wake with joy to see their Saviour come.

He died”—the longest life was closed at last;

Nine hundred years and sixty-nine were past!

Methuselah, as many a one beside,

Had run his earthly race, and then “he died.”

Yes, “once to die” is man’s appointed doom,

But after this the judgment,” sure to come.

The young, the old, are carried to the grave,

Nor human power nor skill from death can save;

nut rook to Jesus, and your soul shall live,

He died that life eternal He might give;

Then, if alive or summoned from the tomb,

What joy ‘twill be to see your Saviour come!

Messages of God’s Love 12/20/1908

Last Words of an Aged Christian

“God has spoken.

He has spoken in grace to my soul.

I have heard Him.

He is a faithful God.

I rest in His word.

I am satisfied.”

Messages of God’s Love 12/20/1908

Old Age and Youth

WHAT a contrast we see between the little girl and her grandpa. The bald head of old grandpa and the spryness of the little girl in climbing upon the chair and little stool, and then on the arm of grandpa’s big chair, in order to hold the mistletoe over his head and kiss him. He, too, not long ago, was just a little child like her, and could jump and climb around, but now he is stiff and does not care to be climbing like his little granddaughter; yet he rejoices to see her do so and, also, to see her love manifested to him.

His thoughts are very different than hers. He can look back and think of the time when he was young, like her, and it seems only a little while ago, and now he is old, and knows that, while his little darling might be taken away from this world before him, yet he must go very soon; for that is the course of this life.

Now, young or old, who may read these lines, I would ask you, Where will you go when you leave this world? God has shown us in His word that there is an eternity of woe and an eternity of bliss, and that we all have our choice as to which one we will go. How important it is that we should have that question settled right now, as we do not know what moment we may have to leave this scene. Does someone say, How can we settle it, and be sure about it while we are here? Let us listen to what the Lord has to say to us in the Scripture “Verily, verily I say unto you, he that heareth My word and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation but is passed from death unto life.” John 5:24.

Ah, meditate on every word in that verse and you will find the only way to escape the awful place Of woe, and find the place of bliss. It can only be by believing in the Lord Jesus Christ as the One whom God has sent to die in the sinner’s place. How simple and easy God has made salvation for us, but the thing is, have we chosen the Lord Jesus to be our own Saviour or are we choosing the pleasures of this world instead? Oh, remember, time is fast flying, and you know not what moment you may be taken away from this world, whether you are old or young. The old must go and the young are taken, too, so you know not how soon your life here will be over. If you have not accepted Christ as your Saviour, I beg of you to do so now, for the present is your opportunity.

“HOW SHALL WE ESCAPE IF WE NEGLECT SO GREAT SALVATION.” Heb. 2:3.

Messages of God’s Love 12/27/1908

How Blind I Was Not to See It Before

HOW blind I was not to see it before—it’s so simple!”

Such was the language of a new-born soul, who for ten years had been an unconverted church member. From early boyhood Mr. Fenton had been taught to read the Scriptures and say his prayers, attend church and Sunday-school, and even when quite young had been the subject of deep religious convictions. As he grew older he joined the Bible class, was eventually made a Sunday-school teacher, and took an active part in Christian work.

On getting married he was strongly advised by his friends and relatives to join the church. Dr.—, being spoken to on the subject, said it was the right thing to do, and showed him certain Biblical “questions” which were usually proposed to candidates. By diligent study of the church standards, at the time appointed he was able to pass a creditable examination, and was duly admitted a member. Neither the clergyman nor any of the office-bearers asked him if he was “born again” (John 3:3). He was admitted on the ground of being able to answer correctly certain questions regarding the facts and doctrines of Christianity. “Are your sins forgiven?” “Are you saved?” No such questions were asked. If they had, he might have been prevented from sitting at the Communion Table and committing the terrible sin of eating and drinking judgment to his soul. For nearly ten years Mr. Fenton was a church member, partaking of the “sacrament” twice a year, imagining that if he did his best, he would have a “good chance” of reaching heaven at last.

Though he said prayers and read the Bible, attended church, and observed “family worship,” his “religion,” instead of being a source of joy, was the heaviest burden he carried. The reading of the Scriptures, excepting historical portions, was generally a dry, wearisome task; and the “family worship” was an empty form, with no worship in it.

Mr. Fenton had a relative, Mr. Tennant, an earnest, happy Christian, who was regarded by him and his friends as “eccentric.” He professed to know that he was saved, and declared that if he died at any moment he was sure of going to heaven. Whenever they met, Mr. Tennant spoke pointedly to Mr. Fenton about his spiritual state. Mr. Fenton sought to entangle his friend in religious controversy, but failed. Mr. Tennant listened patiently and said, “There is no use in discussing such points with you; you cannot be expected to understand them, not being a Christian. Get the great question settled first, and we can speak about other matters afterwards.”

Eventually Mr. Fenton became concerned about his soul’s welfare. He saw that his relative had something which he did not possess, and he determined at all costs not to rest satisfied until he obtained the assurance of salvation. One evening, towards the close of the weekly prayer meeting, the minister made the announcement that, “Mr. Fenton will lead us in prayer.” He had not prayed in public before, and felt much annoyed, but complied with the request, sitting down in a state of profuse perspiration, inwardly determining he would never be “caught” in that way again. A day or two afterwards he called on the minister, and the following is the substance of the conversation:-

Mr. Fenton. ”I have called to see you, sir, about the prayer meeting.”

Minister. “Indeed! What did you wish to say’ about it?”

F. “At the close of last meeting you called on me to engage in prayer, and I have come to ‘say that unless you promise’ not to do so again I shall have to stay away from it in future.”

M. “As a member in good standing, it is your duty to take part in all the exercises of the church when called upon to do so.”

F. “But the trouble with me is that 1 cannot say that I am a child of God. 1 have been thinking about this subject very seriously for some time past, and I am quite satisfied there is such a thing as being saved, and knowing it, and until I obtain, this knowledge I don’t wish to make a hypocrite of myself by calling God my Father in public.”

M. “Oh, I think your are in a very satisfactory condition, indeed; in fact, I don’t like to see people too sure about their salvation; and it is well known that some of the best Christians have lived and died without having the assurance of forgiveness.”

F. “I don’t understand how other people can know that a man is saved if he does not know it himself, and until I know that I am saved I don’t want to take part publicly in any meeting.”

Not long after this conversation, Mr. Tennant paid Mr. Fenton a visit. In the evening, after the household had retired to rest, they sat by the fireside to have a chat. The conversation was opened by Mr. Tennant, who said, “Have you got the matter settled yet?”

“No,” was the reply; and then he mentioned the interview with the minister. Without pausing to make any remark regarding that, Mr. Tennant asked, “Why are you not saved?” Then the following conversation ensued:

T. “Do you believe that the Bible is the Word of God?”

F. “I am, quite satisfied that it is what it professes to be—a Divine revelation.”

T. “Do you really believe that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came into the world, died upon a cross, was buried in a grave, rose again from the dead, and ascended into heaven?”

F. “I do.”

T. “Why did the Son of God do all this?”

F. ‘To save sinners.”

T. “Are you a sinner?”

F. “Certainly I am; and the more I look into my own heart the more I am satisfied there is nothing but sin in me.”

T. “If, then, you are a sinner, and the Son of God came into the world and died to save sinners, how is it that you are not saved?”

F. “That’s just what I cannot understand. I cannot see through it at all. My heart has not been changed, and until it is I cannot believe that I am saved.”

T. “The reason why you are not saved is simply this, you don’t believe on Jesus.”

F. “But I do believe on Jesus.”

T. “If you really believed on Jesus you would not doubt God’s Word; which says, ‘He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.’ (John 3:36). The result of the conversation was that Mr. Fenton was saved. He saw that Christ had suffered and died for him, and through simple faith in His finished work he had everlasting life. For the first time in his life he was enabled to praise God for saving him, and for weeks afterwards he could not help saying to himself, again and again, “How blind I was not to see it before—it’s so simple. Jesus did it all, and I had only to believe on Him and be saved for ever.” (John 3:16; 6:37; 1 John 5:13).

Does the reader know that his sins are forgiven? If not, why not? You may be saved now. Christ bore sin’s penalty. Everything that, was necessary for your deliverance was completed. Men may tell you that it is “presumption” in any one to say that he knows he is saved.

But what of that? Let God be true, and every man a liar.”. “Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life” (John 5:24). Believe now, and eternal life is yours.

Messages of God’s Love 12/27/1908

Kept

“Kept by the power of God.”-1 Peter 1:5.

“That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.”—Col. 1:10.

Kept for the Lord Jehovah,

Kept for His use alone,

Kept evermore rememb’ring

That we are not our own.

Kept to go forth and serve Him—

It may be in irksome ways,

Kept to be always living,

That we may bring Him praise.

Kept to reflect His image—

More like Him daily grow,

Kept to be all for Jesus,

In this dark world below.

Kept for His name and honor,

Kept for His glory now,

Kept as the jewels gathered

With which to deck His brow.

Kept to be used by Jesus

Just when and where He will—

Kept as a vessel emptied,

Made meet for Him to fill.

Kept for the Lord’s good pleasure,

That we may give Him joy,

Kept that our highest glory

Be in His best employ.

Kept till the Heavenly Bridegroom

Claims us His chosen Bride,

Kept then to be forever

Close to His blessed side.

Kept His “peculiar treasure,”

Ransomed by precious blood—

Kept to be found well-pleasing

In everything to God.

Messages of God’s Love 12/27/1908

Messages of God's Love: 1908

Table of Contents

Bible Questions for January

The Little Stowaway, Or, He Was Drowned; I Was Saved

Salvation in View

Bethany

Yet, Jesus Can Save Me

The Power of the Word of God

Talks With the Tiny Ones

Contentment

The Arran Chieftains

Who Is to Take the First Step

The Poor Fisherman

Talks With the Tiny Ones

A Tomb in Hanover

The Only Refuge

Little Mary's Two Bibles

Bible Questions for February

Bethlehem

In the Midst of Life, We Are in Death

The Wonderful Jewels

The Farewell from Mother

The Man Who Died for Me

To Depart and to Be With Christ; Which Is Far Better

The Return to Mother

The Man That Died for Me

The Escape

The Squirrels.

The Shepherd of the Hills

The Christian

Youth

Bible Questions for March

Duty or Love

Whatsoever Things Ye Desire

Return of the Flock

Drowned

A Boy's Testimony for the Lord

God Makes No Mistakes

Talks With the Tiny Ones About Eyes

Come

Grandma's Story

A Child's Trust

Talks With the Tiny Ones About eyes

The Converted Jew

Diligent Hands

Story of a Little Infirm Girl

Talks With the Tiny Ones About Eyes

Forgotten

The Little Ferry

Story of a Little Infirm Girl

Talks With the Tiny Ones About Eyes

Bible Questions for April

Jericho

My Dear Young Christian Friends

Come

A Happy Family

Talks With the Tiny Ones About Eyes

Jamie

Good Company

Tell the Truth

The Saviour

That Heavy Burden

What Shall It Profit?

Things Well Pleasing to God

A Day in the Woods

God's Microscope

Two Mothers

Be Sure Your Sin Will Find You Out

A Letter to Our Readers

Bible Questions for May

A Child's Question

The Safety of the Little Ones

Washing Day

Eternity

Is God Able?

First Things First

A Remarkable Answer to Prayer

Ready to Pardon

The Invitation Accepted

Dora's Papa