Many years ago the magistrate of Barcelona needed a number of oarsmen for some galley boats. He decided on an unusual plan to get them.
He had a large table placed on the market square. On this table they placed some dice, and a large quantity of silver pieces. Then they invited whoever wished, to play. Any who won the game received a certain sum of money, but those who lost had to forfeit their liberty and become oarsmen on the galley boats. Although everyone knew how hard their work would be on such boats, and that they would be treated as thieves and slaves, yet there were many men who risked their lives at this wicked dangerous game. They played their well-being and liberty for a little money. In a very few days the required number of oarsmen were obtained.
Do not say these players were foolish, for if you are still unsaved you are in the same class as they. Many of them lost their present liberty in the vain pursuit of gain here, while you are playing with your precious soul which will live eternally in heaven or hell. They hoped to gain a sum of money and lost their liberty in the attempt; but if you reject the Lord Jesus as your Saviour there is no chance about it you will be lost forever in hell. Why continue to seek after the empty vanities of this poor world which can never satisfy, when you may have forgiveness and eternal life as a free gift? Accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour today.
ML 07/29/1956