I KNEW a dear little boy (C. M. L.), eleven years of age, who was very desirous of knowing that he was saved, but could not understand how he was to receive it: he was told over and over again the true and simple way, but did not seem to obtain happiness. One day a Christian friend went to see the family, inquired his difficulties, and did his best to put before him the plain gospel, and concluded with the following illustration: “Suppose there is an apple on the mantelpiece, and you long for it very much, but will not reach forth your hand to take it. I say to you, ‘Take it, it is for you;’ but you only respond, ‘Oh, I wish it were mine! I wish I could have it;’ yet you will not take it. So it is with salvation; it is offered to you as a free gift, why don’t you accept it?” The child seemed thoughtful, but was called out of the room just at that juncture, and so was prevented answering; but when the gentleman was departing he rushed up to him, dragging hold of his hand, danced about with joy, and exclaimed, “I’ve got it, Mr. B―, I’ve got it, oh; how happy I feel!” And now, through grace, he walks in the knowledge and love of Christ.
I trust this may be for the help of those who are likewise anxious, and that it may induce them to accept the inestimable gift of eternal life and never-ending happiness, which is so freely offered “without money and without price.” (Isaiah 4:11And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach. (Isaiah 4:1).)
J. M. L. L.