We are called to wait and watch for the Lord. The two words do not carry quite the same thought, and 1 cannot better explain the difference than by giving an illustration which suggested itself to the when speaking to a company of fishermen.
The fleet had all gone to the fishing grounds, when a furious and long-continued westerly hurricane burst upon them. Rapidly pulling in their nets, they were driven before the strong wind. Each day it lasted took them farther and farther from home, where now great anxiety prevailed as to their safety. At length the gale spent itself, and, the wind veering to the southeast, the boats made for home.
On their way, they managed to get a telegram transmitted. "All safe, Coming home.”
The good news spread like wildfire through the village, bringing joy to many a troubled heart. They came at a good pace, having a fair wind and a flowing tide. The old skipper of the leading craft had a telescope, and as he came within sight of the pier-head, he used it. After a good long look, he said to the crew.
“The whole village is out on the pier watching for us.”
As the boat drew near, the skipper used the telescope again and this time he said, half under his breath, “God bless her, the dear soul," while a tear rolled down his weather-beaten cheek.
“Who do you see?" asked Jim, the mate.
“I see my wife standing at the very end of the pier watching for me," and another tear or two fell on the deck.
“Do you see my wife?”
“No. Jim. I cannot see her: maybe she's there, but she's not visible.”
By this time the boat had neared the harbor, and loving greetings passed between the old couple.
No special greeting awaited Jim, who, rather dejected, trudged up to his home. Peeping in at the window, he saw his wife sitting by the fire, reading a book. Jim opened the door. She heard the click of the latch, and looking up, said, “O. Jim, my dear, I'm glad to see you back; I was waiting for you.”
“Very likely, but the skipper's wife was watching for him at the pier.”
May God give you and me to be true watchers for the return of His Son, our blessed Lord.
Young Christian