Messages of God's Love: 1945

“O,” I said, “all the work of Christ for sinners was done. Now there is nothing to do, and there is nothing to pay. Suppose you owed me $5.00, and one day I met you, and reminded you of the debt.”

“But I have nothing to pay you with,” you reply.

“Very well, I will pay that bill for von, What would you say to me?”

“O, thank you, sir!” I would say.

“Now, then, if you just believe that Jesus has died for you; not only to say Jesus died for US; for that will not do, but to believe that ‘Jesus died for ME,’ When you get home just thank Him for doing all the work needed for your salvation for YOU.”

God’s terms are just as simple as put to the dear young girl; they are for each clear boy or girl who reads these lines; as it is written,

“When they had nothing to pay he frankly forgave them.” Luke 7:42.

ML 01/07/1945

A Wedding Invitation

Lena lives in a large city in the south. Her home is a hospital. She does not jump out of bed in the morning, as most of you do, and run or walk about. Lena is a cripple who must either lie in bed, or sit in a wheel chair. But she is not sad or unhappy for she knows Jesus as her Saviour, and He is her joy and peace. She knows, also, that when He comes, He will make her body beautiful and strong, a body of glory.

Not long ago such a happy event occurred in Lena’s life. She was invited to a wedding! But what about suitable clothes—a hat, dress and other things? And how was she to go and come? Well, the kind friend who invited her, sent everything Lena needed—hat, dress and even a taxi! All the dear girl had to do was to accept all these long favors, and enjoy the wedding—and this she did.

Some day soon there is going to take place the most wonderful marriage that ever was or will be. It is the marriagc of the Lamb, God’s Son. Now it would be a great privilege to be a guest at that wedding, but think what an honor it would be to be the Bride Herself. The Bride of Christ, dear children, is made up of sinners washed white and clean in His precious blood, YOU may form part of that glorious company.

“How?” you may ask. I will tell you. By His death Christ provided EVERYTHING you need to make you fit and, like Lena, you just accept all by faith. The “best robe” is all ready for any who will take his place as a sinner, and accept or take God’s free salvation: In His word He says to you,

“Come for all things are now ready.” Luke 14:17, and, “Whosoever will, let him take ... freely.” Revelation 22:17.

ML 01/07/1945

"I Beheld the Lamb of God"

A dear little girl in our Sunday school was converted only a few months ago, just while one of the teachers was giving a five minutes’ address at the close of the lesson, from the precious text,

“Behold the Lamb of God.” John 1:36.

I saw Nellie’s face beamed with a new joy, and asked,

“Are you saved, Nellie?”

“Yes,” she said, “Six weeks ago.” “How was that?” I asked.

“I beheld the Lamb of God, dying for me upon the Cross. I believed He took my sins away by His death, and I have been peaceful and happy ever since.”

So little Nellie might be. So will you if you “Behold the Lamb.”

ML 01/07/1945

The Wonders of God's Creation

Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? Declare, if thou hast understanding. Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the cornerstone thereof when the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy? Hast thou entered into the treasures of the snow? or hast thou seen the treasures of the hail?” Job 38:4-7,22.

“He putteth forth His hand upon the rock; He overturneth the mountains by the roots ... ..He made a decree for the rain, and a way for the lightning of the thunder; and unto man He saith, Job 28:9,26.

“Behold, the fear of theLord that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.” Job 28:28.

ML 01/07/1945

A Leper Made Well

Luke 5:12-17

In one city a man who was a leper came to Jesus. Sometimes that disease is only a few spots on the skin, but this man was “full” of the dreadful sores and no one could help him. If the law of the people had been kept, he could not have come near anyone, it said, “The leper ... .shall put a covering over his upper lip and shall cry, “Unclean, unclean!” ... he shall dwell alone.” Leviticus 13:45,46.

So the leper was to warn people not to touch him, but this man knew Jesus cured disease, and he was certain He could cure him. He believed Jesus was greater than a prophet; he believed He was the Lord, and he fell on his face, knowing he was not fit to be near, and said,

“Lord, if Thou wilt, Thou canst make me clean.”

Jesus did not fear or hesitate to touch the poor leper; He put forth His hand and touched him, and said, “I will be thou clean.”

Jesus then told the man to go to the priest for the cleansing required for one healed of leprosy.

In Leviticus 14 we are told just what must be done to cleanse such a one: first, the priest must carefully inspect, to be certain the disease was over; then take two live birds, and kill one and dip the other in the blood, and let it loose to fly away; the man was spriled seven times with the blood of the dead bird; later he was to take two lambs, and flour and oil to the priests to be offered to God for him; if he were poor he could bring two pigeons instead of one of the lambs.

When the priests at the Temple had all those offerings to make, and the blood and the oil to be sprinkled, as told, they surely would inquire how the leper had been cured, would they not? It is not likely they had any lepers cured, to cleanse, as Jesus said there were many lepers in Israel, but none of them was cured (Luke 4:27).

All that careful cleansing of the leper, taught those people that God was holy, and they must be made fit as He directed. But they did not understand. as we now, that the little bird killed, and its blood sprinkled on the leper, taught of One (Christ), to come from Heaven whose blood was shed for sinners. Or that the other little bird, with its feathers dipped in the blood was to teach of that One, raised from death, and going back to Heaven; and the lamb offered, also taught of Him. He is now our High Priest in glory, occupied with us.

When we hear of the power of the Lord Jesus, we may “come” to Him, though unworthy as the leper, and confess Him our Lord. The leper was not sure it would be the Lord’s will to cure him, but we know it is His will to save sinners. His words many times invite them to come to Him. Almost the last message of the Bible is,

“Whosoever will, let him take the water of Life freely.” Revelation 22:17.

Christ is Himself that “Water of Life.”

ML 01/07/1945

The Rock of Gibraltar

Many of the readers of “Messages of the Love of God,” may never have seen even a picture of this wonderful rock that stands so high up out of the water at the entrance into the Mediterranean Sea.

Many have advertised their business as being “strong as Gibraltar,” but after all, that is not so very strong or secure, for an earthquake could bring it down, and cover it with water. Then, too, there is a time corning when the earth and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

It is indeed good that our salvation is not like even strong Gibraltar, for there would be a time when it would fail and pass away; but Christ is the rock of our salvation, and He abides forever. No change can come to Him, and He has said.

“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.

Are you rejoicing in that blessed, competent Saviour, and can you say, “He is the One on Whom I am resting?”

If you can, then this Scripture shall be true of you.

“Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him.” Psalms 2:12.

“The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.” Nahum 1:7.

ML 01/14/1945

"Hoping"

I was one day visiting with a brother of mine, and having found out the time the train would leave to take the to my home, and that there was not a minute to spare, I started off and ran to the railway station, through the ticket office, and up the stairs to the platform: a train was waiting ready to go, into which stepped, and in a few moments we were out of the station. I took a seat, and made myself very comfortable, and expected I was on my way to my home, and that soon I should reach it. Yes, my little friend, I hoped I was going the right way.

In a little while the train stopped at a station, and looking out of the window, I saw the name of the station written up, and then found that I was going the wrong way. Yes, though, I was so comfortable in my seat, hoping I was nearing my home—yet, every time the wheels had gone round I was farther from it than before.

Well, I need hardly tell you that I quickly opened the door and left the train which was going the wrong way, and crossing the track, after waiting a little, asked for the right train, and soon got back again, and then on to my home.

This mistake only cost me a few minutes time, but there are a great many people who are making a mistake which will cost them eternity.

Yes, a great number of men and women, boys and girls, are going on day by day “hoping” that they are geing nearer to heaven, when all the while, as each day closes, it leaves them nearer hell than when it commenced.

My hopes did not take me to my home, and the hopes of poor sinners will not take them to heaven. O! how terrible it will be for poor lost souls to find out too late, that they have all their lives, been going the wrong way.

How did I make such a mistake? I was a stranger in the neighborhood, and did not ask a porter or guard, who would readily have told me that I was on the wrong platform. And how is it so many thousands of people think and, hope they are going to heaven at last, though they are in the broad road that leads to hell? It is because they do not look into the Holy Word of God; they do not search the Scriptures to see whether they are right or not.

My little friend, do not be satisfied with “hoping” you are on your way to heaven. God says, the only way of salvation is through the Lord Jesus Christ,

“For there is none other Name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12.

The Lord Jesus says,

“I am the way.” John 14:6.

The only way to heaven, by which a poor sinner can go, is through the Lord Jesus Christ, who died on the cross to save sinners, and who says,

“Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

ML 01/14/1945

One Saviour for the Good Child and the Bad Old Man

In one of the Western States there lived a little girl named Annie. When she was brought to the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ as her Saviour, the news spread through the place, and a friend, who had long been acquainted with her, said to her father,

“It’s all nonsense for your Annie to think she has been converted. She was just like a little angel always. I don’t believe in religion’s making her any better; she was good enough before. If Dan Hunter, now, could be turned round and made a Christian of, I’d believe in it.”

Little this man thought how his words would affect Annie, who was listening to them. They filled her heart with pity for poor Dan, a well-known bad character; and longing to share with him the glad tidings that had been blessed to her own soul, she went to his wretched home, and told him of the love of Christ for sinners, even the vist. She asked him if he, too, did not need. the Saviour whom she had found.

Poor old Dan! his heart was touched. Perhaps no one had ever before spoken so lovingly to him. And sometimes the hardest heart will be melted by love, while it is only made harder by severity.

So we find Dan on his knees, weeping and crying out,

“Lord, have mercy on the worst of sinners.”

We know that such a cry as that is always heard; and before Annie left, she had the joy of hearing the old man praising God for His goodness in saving a wretch like him.

And now Dan, in his turn, became a messenger of peace to others. In proclaiming the love of God, he would say,

“It’s the same gospel, the very same gospel, that so blessed little Annie. You wouldn’t think it could be, such dreadful sinner as I’ve been! But the same Lord who takes little children in His arms, and blesses them, saves the chief of sinners too. It’s true.

“Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

ML 01/14/1945

Pattie's Bible

In days when Bibles were not so cheap or so plentiful as they now are, a boy was very anxious to procure a Bible of his own. He went to a Sunday school, but he had no Bible at home, nor had he any money to buy himself one. But Pattie prayed to God to give him a Bible, and God heard his prayer.

One day while he was wading in the sea, gathering bait for his father’s fishing lines, he saw a book floating on the water. On picking it up, he found it was a Bible, which had evidently been lost from a passing ship. Pattie rejoiced in being the possessor of God’s blessed. Book, and read it eagerly.

He was saved, and became a true follower of Christ. He told to boys and girls in the Sunday school, the story of Jesus and His love.

What a grand thing it is to be saved, and a lover of the Book of God, whether we are young or old. This is the only way to a holy, happy and useful life, and there is no other road to Heaven and God, but through the Lord Jesus as Saviour.

“Here’s a message of love

Come down from above,

To invite little children to heaven;

In God’s blessed Book

Lost sinners may look,

And see, how all sins are forgiven.

ML 01/14/1945

Sins Forgiven

Luke 5:14-26

The Lord Jesus healed many more sick persons than could be written of; for “great multitudes came to hear, and to be healed by Him.” These all told others, and people came from all parts of the land to see and hear this great physician.

One day the house where Jesus was teaching was filled with people, and a crowd stood outside who could not get in. Some men came carrying a helpless cripple on his bed, but could not get to the door. Those men might have said they better wait until another time, but they did not do that: they were so certain Jesus could cure their friend, and so eager for Him to do it, that they took the man on his blankets, or bed, up unto the roof of the house, made an opening, and let him down into the room where Jesus was.

Jesus was pleased to see such trust, and He rewarded them more than they expected. He said, “Man, thy sins are forgiven thee,” To know his sins would not shut him from God, was better even than to have illness cured.

But some of the men in the room did not think Jesus had the right to forgive sins. They were leaders of the nation, scribes and lawyers, some called “doors,” meaning learned men; they taught the people and made decisions; the most strict were called Pharisees. These men seem to have said to each other that Jesus spoke “blasphemy,” words against God; they said, “Who can forgive sins, but God alone?”

Jesus knew their thoughts: He said to them, “Which is easier, to say, ‘Thy sins be forgiven thee! or to say, ‘Rise up and walk’?”

It might seem easier to cure disease than to forgive sins, yet sickness came into the world because of sin. So it needed, the same power to cure the sickness, as to forgive sins, Then Jesus said to the man, “I say unto thee, arise, take up thy couch, and go into thine house.”

The man stood up, lifted his bed, and walked away; he knew it was by the power of God he was able to walk, and he “glorified God,” praised Him.

But the wise teachers did not believe that Jesus was from God, although John, the prophet of God, had told them that Jesus was the Son of God, which meant He was equal with God, the Father; they had seen His great power to heal; He had known their own thoughts. They knew that even the greatest of their prophets had not healed all diseases; instead, they had healed only a few, so they should have thought He must be the promised Messiah. But they did not like Him to speak of sins, and after this always tried to accuse Him of wrong.

Many of the people thought much of this One Who forgave sins; they gave glory to God, and were “filled with fear,” meaning, reverence and awe.

Later in scripture we read: “Through this Man (the Lord Jesus) is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins; by Him all who believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.” Acts 13:38,39.

ML 01/14/1945

Decision for Christ

The case of Ruth and Naomi gives to us a wonderful picture of one who has decided for Christ.

Ruth heard about Naomi’s God and her country and her people, and she was set on going to that country and dwelling there. Her heart had been filled with sadness in her own land, so she wanted a better country.

Have you found this world to be a sad place, dear reader? There is nothing here to satisfy, and I trust if you have so found it, that you may be desiring a better place. If you do, we will not ask you to go to this poor world to find pleasure, as Naomi wanted Ruth to go back to the land of Moab, where she had found so much sorrow, but we desire to have you go with us to the home above by the only way that God in His grace has provided for us, and that way is Christ. Have you decided for Christ? Can you say

“Thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.” Ruth 1:16.

This is decision in the right way. If you have so decided, listen to these words of the Lord Jesus:

“No man cometh unto the Father but by Me.” John 14:6.

“Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

Decide now for Christ.

“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

ML 01/21/1945

Shall I Have to Bear My Own Sins?

I would not say one word to grieve you, or break in upon your youthful pleasures; but am I not your friend in telling you of One who would take away all your sins now?

Surely you cannot be happy at home, at school, at play, with your sins unforgiven!

Pause a little, dear boy or girl. Get into the presence of God, and ask your heart this question,

Shall I have to bear my own sins in the lake of fire; forever away from God, forever with Satan?

I am quite sure that the question is not a very pleasant one to think about; but I charge you before God, give the question a little thought, say half-an-hour, and let it be considered by yourself all alone with God.

Now, what has Jesus done? What has He suffered that our sins might be pardoned, that our sins might be blotted out? Read, more than once, the fifty-third chapter of Isaiah, and you will know something of what it cost Jesus to bear our sins,

1. He was wounded.

2. He was bruised.

3.He was afflicted.

4.He was oppressed.

5.He was stricken.

6. He was put to grief.

7.He was brought to the slaughter.

8.He was chastised.

9.He was scourged.

10.He was tormented.

11.He was despised.

12.He was rejected.

13.Why was the Holy One of God so treated?

Ah, my young friend, He was suffering in the very place where guilt and sin must put every rejector of grace, at a distance from God,

“My God, My God, why hast Thou, forsaken Me?” He cried.

He took the sinner’s place in grace. You, if unforgiven, are at a distance from God; and if death finds you unsaved, your doom will be fixed to all eternity.

But why will ye die, since Jesus died? Why not be saved now! Do you really believe that Christ bore your sins in His own body on the tree? that His precious blood cleanseth from all sin? Then you are one of whom it can be said,

“God will remember your sins and iniquities no more.” Hebrews 10:17.

“How happy every child of grace!

His sins are all forgiven;

This earth, he cries, is not my place

My happy home is heaven.”

ML 01/21/1945

For Charlie's Sake

A wealthy merchant sat in his office, busily engaged with the morning letters. A tap was heard at the door, and in response to the merchant’s “Come in,” a lame soldier in soiled uniform walked in, and taking off his cap, began to search his pockets, saying confusedly, “I have a letter, for you, sir.” The merchant returned to his desk, feeling annoyed that he should be interrupted so early in the day, by one whom he regarded as a beggar.

In the meantime the soldier had found the letter, and with a trembling hand, laid it on the merchant’s desk.

He was about to throw it on one side, and ask the soldier to come back at another time, when his eye fell on the envelope, the address of which he immediately recognized to be in the familiar handwriting of his only son, who was an officer, and had gone with his regiment to the battlefield.

That sight at once changed the merchant’s thoughts toward the visitor, and he immediately found him a chair; and asked him to be seated.

Opening the letter, he read—

“Dear Father,

The bearer of this is a soldier discharged from the hospital. He is going home to die. Do anything for him that you can, for the sake of CHARLIE, your son.”

The busy merchant laid aside his morning duties, and “for Charlie’s sake,” he found a resting place and other comforts for the needy soldier, and the following day, loaded with many gifts, he was sent on to his native place; where “for Charlie’s sake,” the wealthy merchant showed him much kindness for many years.

This touching story tells how God for CHRIST’S SAKE, is now dealing with needy sinners. In ourselves we deserve nothing, and have no claim upon God to show us kindness. But whenever the Name of Jesus is presented to God, whenever a sinner’s faith lays hold on that worthy Name, God at once saves, and forgives,

“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.

“I write unto you; little children, because your sins are forgiven you for His Name’s sake.” 1 John 2:12. And gives eternal life,

“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.

Apart from the Name of Jesus, God’s beloved Son, there is no salvation and no forgiveness. In that Name, the chief of sinners will be welcomed to God’s heart, and everlastingly saved.

ML 01/21/1945

Yes! All This for You

Question:

Will Jesus bless me if I come

Just as I am today?

I am so sinful and so weak,

And like a sheen I stray.

Answer:

Yes! yes! He calls you to Him now

His words are, “Come to Me!”

He will in no wise cast you out,

His grace is full and free.

Question:

Will Jesus save my guilty soul?

Will He forgive my sin?

Will He remove my every fear,

And give me peace within?

Answer:

Yes! yes! He suffered on the cross,

Himself for us He gave;

That we might peace and pardon know—

That He the lost might save.

Question:

Will Jesus fit me for His home,

To dwell with Him on high?

If He should come to call His own,

Or I am called to die?

Answer:

Yes! Jesus’ blood can make you white,

And fit in heaven to be

With Him above, in perfect love,

For all eternity.

“In whom we have redemption through His blood, even the foregiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:14.

ML 01/21/1945

In the House of Levi

Luke 5:27-39

In all the large towns of Palestine there were men at the gates or in the market places to collect the customs (tax) for the Roman government, which then ruled the land. These men were called publicans, they were Jews, but were despised by the leaders of their nation, who felt they were helping the Romans.

As Jesus walked through a town He came to the place where a publican, named Levi, sat. This man had no doubt heard Jesus’ words, as He had taught in all the places, and believed Him from God; and although he was despised by his nation, Jesus gave him the privilege to go with Him, saying, “Follow Me.”

Levi seems not to have hesitated to leave the work for the Roman ruler, although it meant his income; “he left all ... . and followed Him.” Then he wanted to honor Jesus, and to have others hear His words, so he made a feast at his house and invited many to come and Jesus and the disciples were there.

The scribes and Pharisees thought it was wrong to eat and be friends with publicans, and found fault to the disciples. This was Jesus’ answer to their objection,

“They that are whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.”

That meant Jesus was as a physician to those who knew they were sinners, and not fit for God, but those who thought they were “whole,” or fit for God, did not know they needed Him to save, or “cure” them.

The Pharisees also found fault that Jesus’ disciples did not fast often, and make public prayers. To go without food was a sign of sorrow; Jesus showed them His disciples were not then in sorrow, for He, as a Bridegroom, was with them; but He said the time would come when “the Bridegroom” would be gone, then His followers would “fast” with sorrow.

It is often told that Jesus prayed, and His disciples must have prayed, but not repeating long prayers in puic as these men expected.

Perhaps if you think of what Jesus said, that the “children”, or family, of the Bridegroom would “fast” when He was gone, it will help you to undetand why Christians do not enter all the pleasures of those who do not believe the Lord. While He is gone is not the time of great pleasure to them, although they joy in His love and care; their great joy will be in Heaven. When He comes to reign over the earth all here will rejoice, as the Psalms tell, (see Psa. 150).

“No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old ... and no man putteth new wine into old bottles.”

The law was the old torn garment, but the Lord Jesus was teaching them the new ways of grace and truth, which were to trust the person of the Son of God.

“The law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ,” John 1:17.

Wine spoke of joy, but the joys in Christ could not be put back in the “old bottles” of the law, for that could not hold the wonderful new joy in Him.

ML 01/21/1945

The Grandeur of Nature

What a lovely scene with the snow-covered mountains, and the beautiful road winding in and out among them. God’s work of creation is marvelous, dear children.

“HE HATH MADE EARTH BY HIS POWER, HE HATH ESTABLISHED THE WORLD BY HIS WISDOM, AND HE HATH STRETCHED OUT THE fLEAVENS-Y HIS UNDERSTANDING.” Jeremiah 51:15.

God has given us all these things to enjoy, but these will not tell us where we shall spend eternity. We shall have to go to the Word of God for that. The Bible tells us,

“All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23, so we must find some way to have our sins taken away before we can go to live with a holy God. God loved us and did not want us to go to hell and be lost forever, so He gave to us the best GIFT He had—His beloved Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to take upon Himself the sins of all who will accept Him as their own Saviour. He bore all the punishment from God their many sins derved, and now He is in heaven, calling to all to come to Him to be saved.

Dear children, please accept Him now as your very own Lord and Saour before it is too late.

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

“Were the vast world our own, With all its varied store,

And thou, Lord Jesus, wert unknown, we still were poor.”

ML 01/28/1945

Are You Insured?

A worldly young man was at the railway station the other day seeing a commercial friend off by train. After having bid him goodbye, and leaving, he turned back to the train, and addressing his friend, said,

“By the way, have you an insurance ticket?”

“O yes,” replied his friend, “I am insured.”

A Christian man, who was in the coach, turning to him, said very quietly,

“Are you insured forever?”

Apparently surprised, and, not undetanding what was meant, he answered,

“No, I only insure for a year at a time.”

“But,” said the Christian traveler, “I am insured forever.”

Still misunderstanding, he again replied,

“O, yes, I know you can do it by one payment, but it costs a great deal.”

“Yes,” said the other, “mine was done by one payment, and cost a great deal indeed. It cost me nothing, but it cost God His Son.”

The young commercial seemed astonished; he had seldom, if ever, perhaps, thought on such subjects.

Reader, are you insured? Is it a “Fire” or “Life” insurance? you may ask.

Both. The insurance that God has provided, insures against Hell-fire, which is the rightful portion of every sinner, and it also provides eternal life, and eternal security from the death of the unbeliever. You ask, where can I be insured?

There is only one place, and that is the Cross of Christ. There is no premium required, and well it is you have none to give.

But God in grace has met your need. His Son, Jesus Christ, by shedding His precious blood on Calvary’s Cross, has made full payment. All you are required to do is, by simple faith, to lay claim to the eternal insurance, which is provided for you as a sinner, and thank God for it. It cannot be done in any other way.

“God commandeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

“The blood of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, cleanseth us from all sin.”

ML 01/28/1945

The Faithful Sailor Boy

A bright-eyed boy stood up at the close of a meeting held for sailors in the port where the ship lay, and bore testimony to the saving power of the gospel of God, concerning the Lord Jesus Christ, in the following simple words,

“I have known Jesus as my Saviour for four years. I found out that I was not too young, or too little to go to hell, and I afterwards learned in the Word of God, the Bible, that I was not too young to be saved, and to go to heaven. Jesus came to save little sinners, as well as big sinners, so I came, to Him, believed on Him, and He has saved me. He is more to me than riches or lands; He is with me on the deep sea, and on the land. I seek to serve Him among my shipmates, and in my home. Who will have my Jesus as his own Saviour? I can testify that there is no life so pleasant, as that of following Christ.”

This is beautiful and true. What do you say to this, dear reader? Is not the boy right? Can you say with him, that Christ is yours, and that you find His ways to be pleasantness and peace?

No doubt he had his trials on board ship, among a godless crew,—and God does not promise to keep His saved ones out of such trials; He has promised to give them grace to bear them,—but the sailor boy had Christ, and in Him he conquered.

Are you afraid of the sneers of companions? If you have Christ, with the assurance of glory in your heart, you will not be afraid of what they say.

“Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for My sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven.” Matthew 5:11,12.

ML 01/28/1945

"I Hope so, Sir"

There were four bright children who lightly sprang into the train, and seated themselves, near to me.

After giving them some picture tracts, I began to speak with these little ones about the Lord Jesus, that loving One who took the little children “up in His arms, put His hands upon them and blessed them.”

I found they knew a great deal about this loving Saviour, and one of them, a little girl, told me she knew she was a sinner, but the blood of Jesus Christ had washed all her sins away, and made her whiter than snow. I asked this dear child if she would meet me in heaven, and she answered so simply,

“O, yes, sir.”

And when I asked her how she knew it, she replied,

“Because Jesus has died for me!”

I then turned to one of the others, a little boy of about ten years, and asked him the same question,

“Whether he would meet me in heaven?” But he could not give me the same answer, but said, “I hope so, sir.”

Now, my little reader, are you like the girl, who could say she was going to heaven “because Jesus died for her,” or like the boy, who could only say, “I hope I am going there?”

“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.

“I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish.” John 10:28.

ML 01/28/1945

The Crust of Bread; and the Bread of God

John 6:33

Little Charlie sat at breakfast,

Tiny mite of four years old,

With his loving parents near him,

Safely sheltered from the cold;

All he needed set before him:

What a happy, happy boy!

Better still, he knew the Saviour

Who could fill his heart with joy.

Hark! Who is the man that’s knocking

Early at his father’s door?

Now it opens. Charlie listens.

Soon he knows the man is poor;

For he hears, in whining accents,

“Give me but one crust of bread.”

“Mother,” then spoke little Charlie,

With this crust he can be fed.

“And these words please write upon it,

‘Jesus died for you’;” he said,

Soon his mother fed the stranger,

Satisfied his mouth with bread.

Then she told of One who loved him,

One who shed His precious blood,

So that He might save the sinner;

He, Himself, the Bread of God.

ML 01/28/1945

Two Sabbath Days

Luke 6:1-12

The sabbath day was the seventh day of the week, which we call Saturday. One sabbath day Jesus and the disciples walked by a field of ripe grain; the grain is here called “corn,” but that word long ago meant any grain; it may have been wheat or barley, as the disciples picked some and rubbed it in their hands to take off the chaff, and ate them as you may have done in a harvest time.

The people then were free to pick a small amount from thier neighbor’s fields, but the Pharisees saw what the disciples did and said they were wrong to do that on the sabbath day. The law of God to Israel was that no work should be done on the sabbath, and the leaders had made their own laws as to what was work.

Jesus answered them with a story from the Scriptures of what David once did: the men thought highly of David, and Jesus asked them,

“Have ye not read what David did, when ... . hungered... how he went into the house of God, and did take and eat of the showbread, and gave also to those with him?” 1 Samuel 21:6.

The “showbread” was the bread put in the house of God, fresh each Sabbath, and the old bread could be eaten by the priests, but by no one else (Lev. 24:5-9). So it was not lawful for David to take the bread. But David was the anointed of God to be king, but King Saul was trying to kill him; so when he and his men were hungry they were kept alive by the holy bread.

Jesus was the Anointed by God, greater than David, all belonged to Him, yet people did not provide for Him and those with Him. If the Anointed One was not honored, the laws had no force or use. He told the men that He was Lord, or Master, also of the sabbath; so His disciples could take the grain for food on that day.

Another sabbath day Jesus was teaching the people in the synagogue, and there was a man with his right hand so withered that all could notice it, and the Pharisees, who said the disciples were wrong to take the grain on the sabbath, began to watch to see if Jesus would heal the man’s hand, so they could accuse Him of breaking the sabbath.

Jesus knew their thoughts against. Him, and He told the man with the withered hand to stand up before the people where all could see his need. then He asked the question, “Is it laul on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? to save life, or to destroy?”

Jesus then told the man to stretch forth his hand; and as the man did so, his deformed hand became perfect as his other hand.

To see the Lord Jesus do this mircle by the power of His word, should have shown those men Who He was. But they still thought more of the koi of the sabbath day, than of the power of God, which only could do so wonderful a cure.

ML 01/28/1945

Answers to Bible Questions for November

“The Children’s Class”

1.“For the wages,” etc. Rom. 6:23

2.“For what,” etc. 4:3

3.“For I am,” etc. 1:16

4.“And we know,” etc. 8:28

5.“For if,” etc. 5:10

6.“But we are.” etc. 2:2

7.“All.” 3:23

Bible Questions for February

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in 2 Corinthians.

Write in full the verses with the words,

1.“Who knew no sin.”

2.“In the sight of the Lord.”

3.“Which is blessed for evermore.”

4.“The Father of mercies.”

5.“Nevertheless God, that comforteth.”

6.“But for a moment.”

7.Who beguiled Eve through his subtlety?

Answers to Bible Questions for November

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Rome. Romans 1:7

2.Father of the Jewish nation. Romans 4:1

3.The one through whom the law came. Romans 5:14

4.Abraham’s wife. Romans 4:19

5.Author of the 32nd Psalm. Romans 4:6.7

6.Father. Romans 8:15

7.All who did not speak Greek. Romans 1:14

Bible Questions for February

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in 2 Corinthians

1. Who Isaiah 13elial?

2.What was Achaia? (Use a dictionary)

3.Who was Titus?

4.Who was Aretas?

5.Explain, “when Moses is read.”

6.Who was Timothy?

7.Who was Abraham?

ML 02/04/1945

Joy Over Forgiveness

“Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.”

David knew what transgression and sin meant, he was a good man, but he was not free from sin, he had greviously sinned.

But, remember, he confessed his sin to God, and God heard his cry.

A little girl was told not to touch a bottle of ink on the table. When nurse was gone out of the room, she thought she would try to write a little, and in reaching to get the bottle she pulled it over, and the ink made the cloth in a fearful state. When the nurse came in she was very sorry to see what the little girl had done, but she forgave her. The cloth was washed, but the stains could not be washed out, so whenever the little girl went past the cloth on the table, she would be reminded of what she had done. The stains were left.

This teaches us what disobedience does.

The Lord Jesus Christ, however, is always ready to forgive us when we do wrong, He is even ready to blot out our transgressions, our sins. He was the great sin-bearer.

A little boy one day was not able to get his lessons because his father was angry with him (the reason was, he had disobeyed him), so the little boy went to his father and sought his forgiveness and confessed he had done wrong. Now his father was glad that his little boy had come to him in this way and gave him a kiss, and he went away able to get his lessons afterward. This little boy loved Jesus and Jesus forgave him. When you come to Jesus, He will forgive you and save you.

“In Whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.” Ephesians 1:7.

ML 02/04/1945

"What will Make You Happy?"

There were some services for young people held in the village, and Harry’s mother wanted him to attend them. This he was very unwilling to do, as he preferred to play with his ball. He said to his sister, who went with him,

“I shan’t listen to a single word the man says.”

But after they got into the hall, and one or two hymns were sung, he began to think it was not so dull as he expected. And when the preacher gave his address in a loving, earnest, and simple manner, Harry got quite interested and listened very attentively.

But he did not mean to be a Christian for all that, as he was afraid it might make him gloomy. And just as Harry was thinking like this, the preacher said, “Some of you, perhaps, imagine you would be gloomy if you became Chrisans; but it is Satan who makes you think so, as he does not want to see you happy. Jesus wishes to take away all that makes you unhappy, and to fill your hearts with the joy of heaven.”

On their way home, Harry said to his sister,

“Jane, I want to be happy, so I mean to be a Christian tonight.”

“That is good, Harry. Do you remember what Mr. May said would make us happy?”

“Accepting Jesus as our Saviour, and He will fill our hearts with joy and happiness.”

“But where is Jesus, Harry?”

“He stands knocking at the door of my heart.”

“What, then, have you to do, Harry?”

“Come to Him, and make Him my own Saviour. And I am going to aept Him tonight.”

“Jesus Christ, Whom not having seen, ye love: in Whom, though ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.” 1 Peter 1:8.

ML 02/04/1945

Teaching the Children

How our picture speaks to us of the loving interest the mother takes in the instruction of her children, and also of the attention shown by two of them.

It reminds us of those verses in 2 Timothy 3:14,15:

“Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus.”

May you, dear children, be eager to hear what God has to say to you in His Word, for there we get instruction for our whole path, and it shows us the way of salvation.

I expect most of our readers have learned before this how we can be saved, that God has provided the Saviour, and all we are asked to do is to accept Jesus, God’s beloved Son, as our own Saviour.

If we have done so, it is for us to learn how we should act, by looking at the Lord Jesus in His path while in this world.

He was a little child, a servant and a master, so we can have His life as an example for us.

“My son, hear this instruction of they Father, and forsake not the law of thy mother.” Prov. 1:8.

ML 02/04/1945

Twelve Men

Luke 6:13-16

Here are the names of twelve men whom the Lord Jesus chose from among the men who had believed His teachings, that He could teach them more, that they could better tell others of Him:

Simon Peter James

Philip Matthew

James Judas

Andrew John

Bartholomew Thomas

Simon Judas Iscariot

We notice there were two Simons, two James, and two named Judas. We have already read how Jesus called the two brothers, Simon and Andrew to follow Him, and also the brothers James and John, who all were fisheen, and they left their work to go with Him. Then He called Levi, the publican, also named Matthew, to come With Him, and He said the same words, “Follow Mc” to Philip (Matt. 4:18-:22; Matt. 9:9; John 1:43).

These men were not to follow certain laws but a Holy Person, the Lord Jesus. All who believed His teachings were His disciples and they all told others of Him, but these twelve He called apostles, which means “sent ones.” While He was on earth, He sent them often ahead in that land to tell of Him as the Messiah, and after His return to Heaven they were sent to all the world to tell of Him as Saviour and Lord. But they are not often called apostles until after His return to Heaven. They are called “His Disciples,” or “the twelve.”

They were in Galilee when Jesus chose them, and seem to have lived in the towns there, unless Judas Iscariot was from Judea, as there was a town of that name there, and persons were sometimes known by the name of their town. They were all Jewish men, and must have been taught to read, as were all boys of their nation. But the leaders of Jerusalem looked upon the people of Galilee as unlearned, because they were not taught as they, and later spoke of them as “ignorant men” (Acts 4:10).

But these men of Galilee had heard the books of Moses and the prophets read in the synagogues, and the words of John the Baptist, but best of all they learned of the highest Teacher, the Lord Jesus.

And all these men, excepting Judas Iscariot, the traitor, loved and truly “followed” the Lord Jesus, even though they suffered prison and death because of the learned men of Jerusalem, and are named again in Acts 1:13. And two wrote the life of Jesus,—Matthew and John,—so how much we learn from them!

You may wonder when you read Simon Peter called Cephas; that was the name for stone in the language spoken in Galilee; but in the writings of the gospels and epistles, the name. Peter was used most, as it was the Greek word for stone, so Peter and Cephas mean the same.

ML 02/04/1945

The Photo

Sit tight—and don’t move.”

“Click!”

There now, the picture is taken, and it looks as if each of these little ones held real still while the camera snapped.

It only takes such a tiny moment for the camera to click, that it must be about as fast as the twinkling of an eye.

And there is something else that is going to happen just that fast, one of these days. Can you guess what it will be? Something very wonderful.

The Lord Jesus is coming to call all His own to meet Him in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Every little boy and girl, and every big boy and girl, and every man and woman that believes that Jesus was punished for their sins, and died instead of them, will be suddenly caught up into heaven, and not a single one who trusts in Him will He leave behind. Doesn’t that make you glad to know that He won’t forget one single one, because we are too precious to Him, and He paid too much for us and loves each one too dearly to ever let us go?

Won’t it be grand to find ourselves all together up there, and best of all, to see with our very eyes and touch with our very hands, our Saviour, the preous Lord Jesus! He tells us to watch for Him, and to wait for His coming. Maybe some one thinks it takes bright eyes and sharp ears to be looking and listening for Him all the time, but it doesn’t. Even a poor blind or deaf peon can be doing so with their heart, because they love Him and are longing for the moment they will he with Him.

“IN A MOMENT, IN THE TWINKLING OF AN EYE ... AND WE SHALL BE CHANGED.” 1 Corinthians 15:52.

ML 02/11/1945

Leoni

When Leoni was a very little boy, he went with his father to the market. It was a very hard and trying life for the little fellow, and he was often weary at nights standing in the market around a crowd of ice-cream refreshment stalls. There were devoted servants of Christ who sought to reach the various national-ties that gather there, some by means of evening schools, others by meetings for working boys and girls. It must have been to one of these that Leoni went during the winter months. On the Sunday evenings, a meeting or sort of Sunday school was held in the same place, and to it Leoni after a time was invited to go. He was at first careless,—giving little heed to the speakers, although he liked to hear the hymns—but, after a few weeks, he became much interested in the Bible stories told, and especially about hean, which he had never heard of before. No doubt the Spirit of God was opening his mind to the great truths of the Gospel, and showing him his need of a Saviour. He became acquainted with several boys who had been converted, and they spoke lovingly and earnestly to Leoni about his salvation. He became convicted of sin, and scarcely missed a night at that humble room where the young men sought to reach others with the Gospel.

Leoni believed that he was a sinner and needed a Saviour, but anything he had heard of Jesus, was mixed up with masses, penances, and purgatory. It took some time to teach him that Jesus finished the work of salvation on the Cross, that nothing was left for him to do, but simply to trust himself to the precious blood that cleanseth from all sin. But the light of the Gospel did shine into his heart, and he weomed it and was saved.

He was never ashamed to confess that the Lord Jesus was his Saviour, and the Word of God his guide.

“I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.” Romans 1:16.

“Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalms 119:105.

ML 02/11/1945

The Power of a Smile

One day, recently, a lady was crossing a certain station, when an old man stopped her and said:

“Excuse me, ma’am, but I want to thank you for something.” “Thank me,” exclaimed the lady.

“Yes, ma’am. I used to be ticket collector at B., and whenever you used to go by, you always gave me a cheerful smile and a good morning, and you do not know what a difference it made to me. Wet or fine it was always the same, and I thought to myself, I wonder where she gets that smile from; one cannot be always happy, yet she seems to be, and I knew that smile came from inside.

“Then one morning you came by, and you had a little Bible in your hand, and I said to myself, perhaps that is where she gets her smile from. As I went home that night I bought a Bible, and have been reading it, and have found Christ; and now I can smile, too, and I want to thank you.”

“Whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.” Proverbs 16:20.

For Thou exceedest all the fame

Our ears have ever heard;

How happy we who know Thy name,

And trust Thy faithful Word.

ML 02/11/1945

Lydia, and Her Colored Text

Happy evenings in the old home, when, under my mother’s watchful eye, my sister Lydia and I sat drawing and painting texts for the sick and suffering ones in the hospital, which we visited once a week, giving little presents to the sufferers, and speaking a word of cheer to them.

My sister Lydia had a very pretty colored text, upon which she had spent great pains. The words of it were,

“The gift of God is eternal life.” Romans 6:23.

When Lydia handed the text to a cripple girl, who had been for many months in the hospital, she smiled, and pressing the text to her bosom, said,

“O how I love that text. It was the means of my salvation when I was a girl at school, and, although I am no longer able to run and enjoy life, as I was then, I have the gift of eternal life in my possession, and I enjoy it day and night.” Then patting Lydia’s cheek, she gently said,

“I hope the dear child who has taken such pains to paint this pretty text, has received God’s gift for herself, and knows that she is saved, too.”

Lydia said nothing in reply, but that word of the sick girl troubled her, as it afterwards did me. The fact is, we had been so accustomed to hear of Jesus, and, from our earliest years, to learn and repeat texts about Him and His great salvation, that it was taken by most of our friends for granted that we were both children of God. But grace does not “run in the blood”; therefore, although our parents were both earnest Christians, and made it their study to bring us up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, we had to be saved just as other sinners.

Lydia was troubled after that question. At first she thought it was rude, but, as she thought over it, she saw it was quite a proper and a needful question to ask. She told me in our bedroom one night, that she was not saved, for she had not received the gift of God. Although I was just as she was, unsaved, I said,

“Then do receive it, Lydia, and you will be saved.”

I believe it was either then or soon after, that my sister really took Christ as her personal Saviour, and when we next visited the hospital, she could tell the one who had first spoken to her, that she had now the gift of eternal life as her own. Lydia was a happy Christian, and it was chiefly through her clear testimony and Christ-like life, that I too was led to the Saviour. Now we are both happy in the knowledge of His love, that He has saved us, and that we shall dwell with Him and all our loved ones in glory.

It may be some of my young readers are as Lydia and I were in our early years—well taught in the Word, able to repeat it, make texts from it,—and yet unsaved. We had not then received the gift of God, which is the real beginning of the Christian life. Have you?

“The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

ML 02/11/1945

Words of Wisdom

Luke 6:17-38

Many of the talks of the Lord Jesus were to the people out of doors; such multitudes came from all parts of the country that there would not have been room in a building. Many came to be cured, and “He healed all,” as so many times, but He taught them also, and we read His words now.

The people then did not know they listened to the One Who had created the earth and all things: how wondeul to hear Him away from the disturbances of the towns! We can see what wisdom there was in all He said, how well He knew the lives of the people and their thoughts, just as He knows ours also.

Some of His words seem meant for the disciples who believed Him, yet all should believe, and they heard His plain words. He explained that if they were poor, hungry, weeping, and hated by men for the sake of the Son of man, they would most surely be blessed.

The law told that one who hurt another should be equally punished by him, but here Jesus gave “new ways” as He had before told there would be.

“But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them that hate you, bless them that curse you, pray for them which despitefully use you.”

This is not the natural way of any, but the way for those who follow the Lord Jesus, and the way of the kinom or rule of God,

“He is kind unto the unthankful and evil.”

“Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.”

All this showed that there would be wrongs and evil to suffer, but that the Lord would be a just judge, who would see all, and reward. He is the one who gives “good measure” of blessing for all done for Him; He told the people, “Give, and. it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over shall be given into your bosom” (vs. 38).

The law said they were to have just standards of weights and measure, then each man in his work or business was to use such exact and just measure, not to carry with him smaller measures, for gain to himself. Those who follow the Lord, would do even better than the “just” measure, they would “give”, which means, something not expected to be paid for. Men might never return the gift, or good measure, but the Lord will, His return will be “running over.” Even in this world His blessings of added peace and joy fully repay all done for Him.

Read of the just weights (Lev. 19:35, 36; Deut. 25:13-15).

So the words of the Lord Jesus are higher and fuller than the law to Moses: they show He may be honored in all the every day life of those who want to follow Him, but He did not promise lives free from trials, but that the reward of God would he sure. Many boys and girls must have been in the great company listening to the Lord, and understood His teaching, which is as true for us.

ML 02/11/1945

The Queen

With a plain, little chair for a throne, an old umbrella for a canopy, and a wreath of grape leaves for a crown, the youngest child makes a contented little queen.

Just outside the door you see the grape vines. The basket inside is full of fruit, and now the children are feasting on the grapes they have gathered.

The rest of the children are serving their queen very arrentively and kindly. You may learn from this that you should play contentedly with you little brothers and sisters, or friends. You should be unselfish, and ready to give them first place.

If you know the Lord Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour, you have eternal life, and you will take pleasure in seeking to please Him in all your ways. He is the unselfish One who gave up all that He had in order to save us. So let us seek to please Him in everything.

“BE YE KIND ONE TO ANOTHER, TENDER-HEARTED, FORGIVING ONE ANOTHER, EVEN AS GOD FOR CHRIST’S SAKE HATH FORGIVEN YOU.” Ephesians 4:32.

ML 02/18/1945

Profit and Loss

What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” Mark 8:36.

A young man who was seeking his pleasures in the gaiety of the world, in every way, and traveled to other places for this, had heard the above words, and they continually rang in his ears, and he did not find the satisfaction he craved.

God had His eye on him, and he could not sleep, but agony of soul was there instead. The Spirit of God had been working in his soul, teaching him the emptiness of that world’s wealth and splendor; the hollowness of its gilded charms.

One night he had stayed in a hotel, and after retiring he heard some one singing, in the room,

“How sweet the Name of Jesus sounds.”

He listened attentively, and looking through the keyhole, he saw the singer was an old man. After the hymn was finished, the man read his Bible and then knelt to pray.

The listener could resist no longer; He knocked at the door. A voice from within said,

“Who is there?”

He answered: “A young man in deep anxiety of soul.”

“Come in! Come in!”

There and then he pointed him to Jesus, the Saviour of sinners, and spoke of His precious blood which cleanses from all sin, and fits the vilest sinner who believes in Him, for the presence of God.

Divine light shone into the young man’s soul, and he discovered the value and preciousness of the NAME of JESUS. Another repentant sinner had turned to God through the Lord Jesus Christ, for salvation. He went to bed and to rest, (real rest this time).

What the world had failed to give, he found in Christ.

“Come unto Me, ... and I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28.

Dear reader, have you found this rest in Christ?

ML 02/18/1945

Jesus Is Always Near

I should like, dear children, to tell you a little story that was told to me, and I do trust and pray that God may use it to lead some of you just to trust Jesus now.

I was sitting at the door of a house in a little town one bright day, enjoying the fresh country air, when I saw a woman coming up the street leaning on her husband’s arm. She was not old, but walked with great difficulty, and was evidently suffering. She stopped near me, and was thankful to have a comfortable chair brought out, and to rest before going home, about ten minutes’ walk further on.

After she recovered a little, she told me she had suffered from rheumatism for eighteen years, and that her illness was incurable, and gave her great pain.

Her face was not, however, unhappy-looking, and I wondered if she was looking to God, who is “a very present help in trouble.” So I asked her if she knew what it was to have Jesus near her in her trouble, as her Saviour and Friend.

“O! yes,” she replied brightly; “and what you are saying makes me think of a little story I once heard,

“A person who was anxious about her soul, and wanted to be saved, said to a friend, ‘I am seeking Jesus.’

“‘You need not do that,’ replied her friend, ‘for He is close beside you, just waiting for you to accept His offer, and to take Him as your Saviour.’

“And so He is always,” said the dear woman, as she rose and said goodbye, and went on her way home.

Now that you have heard my little story will you, dear child, who are not yet saved, take it to heart, and just take Jesus as your Saviour at this very moment?

He is near you today and will save you. Tomorrow may be too late. Listen to His Word,

“The Word is nigh thee... that if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from he dead, thou shalt be saved.” Rom. 10:8,9.

And for you, happy little Christian, who know Jesus as your Saviour, will you tell this little story to some of your little friends? that they, too, may find Jesus near, and, accepting His offer of salvation, be saved; for He has said,

“Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out” John 6:37.

ML 02/18/1945

Bill, the Telegraph Boy

I had a bright little boy in my Bible Class, a telegraph messenger, whose happy face and consistent life and testimony as a Christian had done much to interest the young folks in the Gospel. He was saved in the Sunday school, and says it was while one of the teachers was speaking from the lesson for that day which was Exodus, ch. 12, the blood on the doorposts, which made the first-born son safe.

“The blood of Jesus the Lamb of God, which I trust makes me safe, and the Word of God which says, ‘Whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe’ (Prov. 29:25), makes me sure,” was Bill’s bright testimony of the lips to the saving power of Christ.

Always rejoicing, as he delivers his telegrams to rich and poor alike, he is a true messenger of the Gospel as well, and testifies of Christ.

“It is the blood that inaketh atonent for the soul.” Leviticus 17:11.

“Without shedding of blood is no remission.” Hebrews 9:22.

“The blood of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

ML 02/18/1945

Saved in an Orphan's Home

Since I was a girl of ten, I have thought of eternity. My first awakening to the great question of where I would spend it, was while at school. I had been taught that salvation was to be obtained by prayer and diligent attendance at the church and the sacraments.

I went to act as “mother” in an orphan home, and there I found a new doctrine had been taught. It was this:

That a sinner could be saved at once and forever, without works, by looking to Jesus Christ alone.

Two of the helpers in my “cottage” were themselves happy in the assurance of their salvation. How I longed to be sure of mine. I was looking within, expecting some change, or some feeling to assure me I was saved. But it never came.

“Look unto Me and be ye saved” (Isa. 45:22), was the message that gave me light. I did look away from my good deeds and my bad deeds to Jesus, and He saved me.”

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us.” Titus 3:5.

ML 02/18/1945

Questions of the Lord Jesus

Luke 6:39-49

Sometimes we understand a subject best by a question, now notice the questions of the Lord Jesus:

“Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall in to the ditch?” He did not explain the questions, but they are said to be “a parable,” so there was a lesson hidden in them for the people to learn, and for us too. We know if a blind man lead another, he might go too near the edge of the road, and stumble into the ditch, causing the other to fall too.

There were leaders among the people who would not believe that the Great Teacher was the holy Son of God, because they did not want to think of their sins. And they did not look at, or “see” God’s words, so they were “blind” to the wondrous Person Who had come, and were leading others their way, and must all “fall into a ditch,” or trouble.

It is the same now, there are persons who do not believe that the Son of God came to earth; they do not listen to God’s words, or think they need the Saviour, and they try to lead others to think the same. Jesus’s questions were a warning not to be led by the “blind.”

This is another question He asked:

“Why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but perceivest not the beam that is thine own eye?”

A mote is a very tiny particle, as dust; a beam is a piece of wood. If you had a large substance in your eye, you could not see to remove even a tiny bit of dust for another, could you? But what lesson can this teach? Both the mote and the beam hinder good sight so must teach of wrong things which we say or do, that keep us from seeing, God’s way. So first we must “take out the wrong in us; to do that, we firs realize and say, “I was wrong,” then. “I am sorry,” and cease from the wrong, then we will be able to help another to be rid of his wrong.

The last words of the Lord’s talk we can easily understand: He said,

“Whosoever cometh to Me, and heareth My sayings, and doeth them, I will show you to whom he is like:

“He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.”

Those who hear the Lord’s words and believe Him, have a safe place on the “Rock,” which we know is the Lord Himself.

“But he that heareth and doeth not is like a man that, without a foundation, built a house upon the earth, against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.”

When we hear the Lord’s words but do not believe, we are the same as that man who built his house on the sand and not on the “Rock,” Christ, we will have no safe place, the storm of judgment from God will overwhelm us.

ML 02/18/1945

The Storm at Dunraven Castle

On the beautiful shores of Ireland, many storms have been witnessed, and many who were caught in them, have lost their lives, but those on the shore could stand and look at the wild waves with calmness of spirit, and have no fear, knowing they were on the solid rock that could not be moved by the storm.

The Dunraven Castle too, was not only built well and strong, but it was upon a solid foundation, so that when the great waves and terrible winds came, it did not move in the slightest degree.

There is a worse storm coming upon this world than has ever been witnessed, for God is going to pour judgment upon people for their sinful ways, and above all, for the rejection of His Son, whom He gave in His infinite love for lost and ruined people. How terrible it will be to be overtaken by that storm of judgment, for it will mean to be lost forever.

How is it with you, dear young reader? Have you accepted Christ as your Saviour, or are you still reject Him? Remember, there is no middle ground; you must either be an accepter or a rejector of Him.

But those who have accepted Him can say, I stand upon the solid rock, and can look on that coming storm without any fear.

We warn you to flee from the judgment. Accept Christ as your Saviour. He has borne the judgment for all who put their trust in Him.

HOW SHALL WE ESCAPE, IF WE NEGLECT SO GREAT SALVATION. Hebrews 2:3.

ML 02/18/1945

"It is I; be not Afraid"

The other day, my sister seeing many little birds seeking in vain for food in the garden on a very cold and frosty morning, carried out some bread crumbs, which she sprinkled, on the walk in front of the house.

As I watched our hungry little friends I thought, dear children, what lessons we might learn from them. In the first place they were all alike, cold and hungry, but just notice the difference in their behavior. First, came a number of little sparrows; they pecked up a few crumbs very hurriedly, looking all the time to see if any one were coming; at the slightest noise they all flew away to the shelter of a friendly tree, where they sat looking with longing eyes at the food which they so much needed.

But look again; here comes a great black-bird, he is not nearly so frightened as the sparrows, he seems to think that as the food has been placed there for him, he will eat until he is perfectly satisfied; he is not going away hungry when the food has been offered him. Now, dear children, you may think this a funny idea, but some of you remind me very forcibly of these little birds,

“O,” I think I hear some of ye say, “I am sure I never turn away when food is offered to me, and I am hungry; I am not so silly!”

Wait one moment, and think, dear child, if you never long for something you do not possess; well, this longing is just the kind of hunger I mean. Ah! my child, you are hungry, you are not satisfied, you want some food, but take care you are not like the little sparrows; for I am going to tell you of One who is offering you just what you long for.

There is a Saviour who is now standing close by your side, looking at you with tender pleading eyes. ‘Tis as if He said, I have been waiting far you to look up, and see Me stretching out My loving hands to receive you. Do you not remember how I walked on the water to Peter, and when he cried to Me,

“Lord, save me,” did I not put or My hand and hold him up? Now, children, here is a dear, loving Saviour, gentle, yet strong and tender. But, you say, What are those cruel wounds in your hands? Ah, little sister, little brother, you remember that day you disobeyed your Father, he said, yet must be punished for your disobeence; but, Jesus says, I have borne the punishment of sins instead of you, and these marks on my hands were just a little part of what I bore for you. Now will you not

“Come unto Me,”

“Come and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart?” But you say, “Why does He want us? Why does He call us?”

He wants to satisfy you fully, satisfy you with joy, and happiness.

“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come, he that hath no money, come ye, buy and eat; yea, come buy wine and milk without money and without price.”

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends,” But Christ died for His enemies,

If a dear school-fellow came and said to you, “Come home with me to tea,” you would either refuse or accept the invitation, would you not? So, just answer your dear Saviour; do not keep Him waiting, dear children; listen once again to Him,

“Behold I stand at the door and knock,”

He is waiting, He wants to be your dearest friend, your Saviour.

Think how He nursed the little children and blessed them, and He comes now with a message from His Father

“God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

If you are willing to let Jesus he all He wishes to you, just ask Him to show you how much He loves you, and longs for you to know Him as your Saviour, then you will be fully satisfied, just resting, “safe in the arms of Jesus.”

ML 02/18/1945

A Sermon of Eleven Words

I gave my Sunday school class a sermon in eleven words today,” said a friend of mine lately.

“I should like to have heard that,” I fancy some boy or girl would say, who reads this, “for I don’t like long sermons,” so I will tell you about this short one.

It was a showery morning, and shower and sunshine had been rapidly following each other, when a beautiful rainbow was seen stretching across the country.

Then the teacher turned to her class, and, as she pointed to the rainbow, said,

“That shows what a faithful God we have to do with.”

That was a short sermon, was it not?

Only eleven words, and yet how, much in them! Yes, God is a “faithful” God, true to His promises, for what He has promised He will certainly do.

Then the teacher and her class turned to Genesis 9:14,15, and read that four thousand years ago God had promised that He would not again destroy the earth by a flood; but that when He brought a cloud over the earth, the bow should be seen in the cloud.

Think of it, children; all these years, in spite of all the wickedness of men. God has been faithful to His promise, and still the rainbow is seen in the cloud. Is not that “a faithful God?” Can you fear to trust Him and His faithful word?

The bow in the cloud is the witness to God’s faithfulness in keeping His promise, in grace and for blessing. But if you turn to Hebrews 12:26, you will read that God has promised to shake not the earth only, but also heaven. And in 2 Peter 3:7, we read,

“The heavens and the earth by the, same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire, against the day of judgment.”

This promise is in judgment, and be sure that it, too, will certainly be performed. Yes, God is “faithful,” and His word is sure. His promise will.be kept, and judgment will surely come; but in grace He is waiting now, so that all who will, may escape while yet there is time.

Would you like to know the way of escape, that you may be safe when God fulfils His word and the judgment falls?

Listen, then, to this “faithful” word of “a faithful God”

“This is a faithful saying, and wohy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Tim, 1:15.

Will you accept this for yourself, dear boy or girl, and take Jesus as your Saviour, and know on the authority of God’s sure word that you are saved, for all eternity?

ML 02/18/1945

A Captain's Faith

Luke 7:1-10

When the Lord Jesus was on earth, the Roman nation ruled Palestine and kept soldiers in many towns to enforce the laws. A captain over one hundred of those soldiers was called a centurion. One of these men lived in a city where Jesus did so many miracles. He was a kind man who had done much for the Jewish inhabitants, and seems to have heard of Jesus from them. So when one of his servants was very sick, and dying, he sent men to ask Jesus to come to heal him.

Jesus started toward the centurion’s house, but before He reached it, men came with a message from the centurion, saying,

“Lord, trouble not Thyself, for I am not worthy that Thou shouldest enter under my roof ... .neither thought I myself worthy to come unto Thee; but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed.”

It seems the centurion had never seen Jesus, but, because of the wonderful things He had done, he knew Jesus was the Lord from Heaven, and had all power and authority, and felt himself unworthy for His holy presence. Yet he must have longed to see Jesus, and soon came himself to Him. For we read that Jesus said to him,

“Go thy way, as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee.” Matthew 8:13.

That Roman officer was not mistaken as to the power and authority of the word of the Lord Jesus; “in the selfsame hour” the servant was healed.

It pleased the Lord Jesus that this man, who had not always known the promises of the Holy One to come, (as the people of the land had), believed He was the Lord. Jesus said He had “not found so great faith” in Israel.

The centurion must later have known of the death of Jesus and learned that it was by His death that those who trust Him are made worthy to be in His presence.

What of the sick servant so suddenly made well? It is not told about him, yet we would think he surely must have wanted to see Jesus.

You often hear the word “faith’ spoken of, but perhaps you do not understand what it means. This story of the centurion explains it, as Jesus said he had great faith: he had not seen Jesus, yet he believed Him to be the Lord, because of the things Jesus had done, as no other could do.

So you see this captain’s faith was not in anything he himself had done or could do, although he held a trusted position; his faith was all in what Jesus had done.

We now have all heard of Jesus’ mighty deeds and of His words, and how, in spite of His power, He allowed men to nail Him on a cross, that He should die for our sins. If we believe Him our Lord and Saviour, and all our trust is in Him, that is faith.

Jesus once told the people that they should believe Him for the works which He did, (John 10:38), and He also said these words,

“Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” John 20:29.

“Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:13.

ML 02/18/1945

Answers to Bible Questions for December

“The Children’s Class”

1.“Therefore if,” etc. Rom. 12:20

2.“For God,” etc. 11:32

3.“For the.” etc. 14:17

4.“For there is,” etc. 10:12

5.“Now the God,” etc. 15:13

6.“The night is,” etc. 13:12

7.“The beloved Persis” 16:12

Bible Questions for March

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Galatians

1.Write in full the verse with the words, “Gave Himself for Me.”

2.Write in full the verse with the words, “Raised Him from the dead.”

3.Write in full the verse with the words, “By faith in Christ Jesus.”

4.Write in full the verse with the words, “Walk in the Spirit.”

5.Write in full the verse with the words, “An heir of God.”

6.Write in full the verse with the words, “God is not mocked,”

7.Whom did Abraham believe?

Answers to Bible Questions for December

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Servant of the Church at Cenchrea. Rom. 16:1.

2.Spain. Rom. 15:24.

3.Wife of Isaac. Rom. 9:10.

4.One of the twelve tribes. Romans 11:1.

5.A believer in whose house the church met. Romans 16:23.

6. Heathen idol. Rom. 11:4.

7. Paul’s secretary, who wrote down the leer to the Romans. Rom. 16:22.

Bible Questions for March

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in Galatians

1.Who are the Israel of God?

2.What was Sinai?

3.Who was Titus?

4.Who was Ceohas?

5.Where is Damascus? (use map).

6.Where is Arabia? (use map).

7.Where was Peter when Paul rebuked him?

ML 03/04/1945

Was it for Me?

O Lord, what love for sinners Thou hast shown,

To give Thy life for those by sin undone;

But is that blood, which Both for sin atone,

For me?

Was it for guilty sinners such as I

That Thou, O Lord, didst suffer, bleed and die?

And is that grace, which Thou doest now supply

For me?

Yes, if my hope is placed in Thee alone;

Yes, if I trust in Thee, th’ Eternal Son;

‘Then ‘tis for me that work which Thou hast done—

For me.

Yes, ‘twas for me, Lord Jesus, Thou didst come;

To me Thou givest pardon, peace and home,

And Saviour, on Thy loving breast there’s room

For me.

And till I meet Thee in that glory bright,

And when I walk with Thee in robe of white,

O Lord, I’ll find my sweet, my full delight

In Thee.

ML 03/04/1945

Charles and Jane

The Bible tells us that the way to be saved is to “believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.” To believe in Jesus, or to have faith in Jesus, means the same thing as to trust in Him. When Jesus hung bleeding and dying on the cross, He was suffering the punishment of our sins. And because He has suffered for our sins, we go free. We are pardoned and saved when we believe in Jesus, or when we trust in Him.

I was reading the other day about two little children—a brother and sister. Their names were Charles and Jane. They loved each other very much, and were generally good children. But sometimes they gave way to bad tempers; and then they had to be punished.

One day little Jane, who was but four years old, had been doing something wrong. To punish her for this her mother told her she couldn’t go out to play, but she must sit still in the corner of the nursery for half an hour. Presently Charles came in. He was older than Jane. Finding that his sister had to be punished for doing wrong, he said,

“Mother, please let me sit in Jane’s place, and take her punishment for her.”

His mother was pleased at his kiness, and said he might. Then he ran up to his sister and kissed her and said,

“Now Janie you may go and play, and I will stay here in your place.”

When Janie was gone he settled himself down quietly and seemed to be eaged in thinking earnestly about somhing. After a while he said,

“Mother, isn’t this like Jesus?”

“What do you mean, my child?” asked his mother.

“Why, didn’t Jesus take our punishment when He hung upon the cross, that we might not be punished forever, just as I have taken Janie’s punishment?”

That little fellow was right. He understood God’s way of salvation. His sister was out playing because he was bearing her punishment.

“He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iquities; and with His stripes we are healed.”

What any poor sinner has to do in order to be saved, is to trust in Jesus. This is what Jesus meant when He said, “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

“Whosoever believeth” — or trusth—in Jesus, “hath everlasting life.”

Jesus has done everything for us. There is nothing left for us to do for salvation but to trust in Jesus and what He has done. It is not our tears or prayers that saves us. It is not being baptized or receiving the Lord’s supper that saves us. It is Jesus who saves us. He saves all who trust in Him. Many people won’t believe this. They think they must do something themselves before Jesus will save them. But this is a mistake. And we never can be happy till we give up trying to do anything, and just trust in Jesus. He is the altogether worthy One.

ML 03/04/1945

Giving Thanks

Winter was thought to be over, and after all, a snow came, and it seemed just as disappointing as the first snow of the season was received with gladness and delight.

All things should be received with thanksgiving by those who know the Lord, for we know that important scripture,

“GIVING THANKS ALWAYS FOR ALL THINGS UNTO GOD AND THE FATHER IN THE NAME OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.” Eph. 5:20.

The people of the world do not think of thanking God for anything. They sit down and eat even their food, without thanking God; just like the poor dumb animals.

The cow knows who feeds her, and the chickens know the one who comes so kindly with their feed in a pan for them to eat out of, when the snow is on the ground, and they express their thankfulness as well as they know how.

We know that God, the Creator, is the giver of everything, so we should give thanks to Him, and remember too, the great love He had for us to give His only Son to die in our stead. Then we can say, seeing He loved us so much, that all things, pleasing or painful; dark or bright, must be the very best for us, and therefore we may thank Him for all things.

ML 03/04/1945

A Great Change

Luke 7:11-17

There was a city of Galilee, called Nain, which means beauty, or pleasant. It was built on the hillside, with a lovely view of the mountains, and we might expect all to be very happy there.

But many were sad the day Jesus and the disciples walked up the hill, for death had come in the pleasant city. And when Jesus and those with Him came near the gates, a funeral procession was coming out on the way to the tombs. People did not then use carriages, but walked, and men carried the dead person on what is called a bier, or stretcher.

The person who had died was not old, but a young man, the only son of a widow. This mother was weeping, and the many friends with her could not comfort her, or take the place of her dear son. She did not know that there was One near Who could change her sorrow to joy.

Jesus came to her and said, “Weep not.” Then He stepped to the bier and touched it. The men carrying it seed to feel His authority and stood still.

Then Jesus spoke to the lifeless body,

“Young man, I say unto thee, Arise!”

The young man sat up and began to speak; what he said is not told, but what a change to the dead body, so soon 7.O have been laid in the tomb! And what instant power came by the voice of the Lord Jesus!

The young man’s mother or his friends could have called ever so louy, and he would not have heard, but the voice of the Lord at once brought him to life. Wonder and joy must have filled his mother’s heart, and “fear,” or awe and great reverence, came to all the people beside that road. They said, “A great prophet is risen up among us,” Later they would learn that Jesus was more than a prophet—that He was the Son of God.

This account is given only by Luke; the story of the raising of the ruler’s daughter is given later (chs. 8). So this young man may have been the first person the Lord Jesus raised from death. His sorrow for that mother and His words, “Weep Not,” can still comfort those who mourn, and His power to raise that one, assures us that He will do so for all, as He later said. And it will be His same voice which will call the dead of all ages, for He said,

“Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear His voice (the voice of the Son of Man), and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.” John 5:28,29.

In the Bible, “the good,” or “the just,” are those who believe God’s words; “the evil” or “the unjust” are those who do not believe God. So these words tell, that those who believe God will be raised for blessing: those who do not believe Him, will be raised for judgment (in Revelation 20:5 a time is named between the resurrections). These are solemn words, how important to believe God and the Son of God, Whom He sent!

“He will swallow up, death in victory; arid the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces” (Isa. 25:8, Rev. 21:4).

ML 03/04/1945

Friends

The beautiful Angora cat, is the image of quietness and contentment, as she watches her five fluffy kittens, all having such pretty, mischievous faces.

The noble dog looks so gentle, and we know he would not hurt the little kittens as they frolic around him.

Kindness and patience are lessons we all need to learn, and from whom can we see these beautiful characteristics so fully manifested as in our blessed Lord Jesus? When He was in this world, He went about doing good to all, even to His enemies, and while they did not appreciate His kindness, He loved them, and longed for them to come to Him so He could give them Eternal Life, and thus be ready to live with Him in His bright Home above.

We hope not any of our friends will stay away from Him any longer, as He has many wonderful blessings to give you, if you will accept Him as your own Saviour.

Do not compel the Lord to have to say of you, as He did of others,

“Yes will not come to me that ye might have life.” John 5:40.

Of all those who do come to Him, He says,

“I give unto them Eternal Life, and they shall never parish.” John 10:28.

In which class are you?

ML 03/11/1945

Too Late!

Boom! What was that? In the stillness of the night the signal is sent, waking everyone out of sleep. Boom! Louder this time The lifeboat call; someone in distress, in danger!

A moment or two later, the patter of running footsteps is heard and the brave crew are hurrying to take their places in the boat. Donning their oilskins and lifebelts with the aid of willing hands, everyone is soon ready and the coxswain giving the word, the boat is released and running down the slipway, plunges into the sea on this errand of mercy.

The crowd melts away and returns home, but the men in the lifeboat are, using every effort to reach the vessel in distress. It is a small sailing boat which has overturned and the men are clinging to it in hope that help may reach them. But the waves are too much the exposure too long and both of them at last are drawn into the water to lose their lives at sea.

The lifeboat arrives but it is too late to save the men. They have perished. So,they take the sailing boat in tow and bring it to shore, a silent token which has a voice for each one of us that two more have been called into eternity, to await that time when the sea will give up its dead (Rev. 20:13).

All the energy and haste of the lifeboat crew proved to be in vain. They were too late! We must praise and admire these brave and unselfish men who go forth at a moment’s call to rescue others who are in need, whether day or night.

And what are your thoughts of Him Who came in response to a great cry of distress to save our souls lest we should sink into the waters of death without hope, unsaved, lost?

The Lord Jesus left the throne of glory and came down into the water of death to save, and there is still time to be saved today. God says NOW, not yesterday, not tomorrow, but NOW, this very moment. This golden opportunity is yours now. Will you let Him save you now? He is ready and willing, and has come all the way to where you are to save you.

To refuse, may be fatal. The moment may pass, and as far as you are concerned, you will not have another opportunity. O, embrace this golden moment, for, your eternal life depends upon it, and accept the salvation in Christ Jesus our Lord.

“The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Roomans 6:23.

ML 03/11/1945

Emily's Dream

How good it is to know that God is a God of love, and that He has many ways of speaking to us, if only we have ears to hear. I am going to tell you about Emily and how God spoke to her.

She had been sent away. from home to a boarding-school in the country, and it was while staying there that she had a remarkable dream which she has never forgotten to this day, for it was through the dream that she was led to seek and find a Saviour.

As her parents were Christian people; there is no doubt that she had often heard them speak of the Lord Jesus coming again to this earth, as we read in Scripture, to take away all those who love Him; and that was what she dreamed—that the Lord had come and taken her father and mother away, while she was left behind.

Although she was asleep, the thought was terrible that if her parents had been taken and she left, she knew that all hope of salvation for her was over forever.

Awaking out of her sleep in deep distress, she pulled violently at the bell, which instantly brought the school-mistress into her room to know what was the matter. She told her trouble to the matron, who being a Christian woman could easily understand her sorrow, and she was able to assure her that the Lord Jesus had not yet come.

Somehow this did not comfort her very much, and she thought if only she were at home with her father and mother, she would be quite sure that she was all right.

But the fact is, God was speaking to her about her soul, though it was only a dream, and by that dream she was led to seek Christ as her Saviour, and we know there is no other One who can fit us for the presence of a Holy God but the Lord, Jesus, who has loved us aiid given Himself for us.

I believe that God has often spoken to boys and girls by means of a dream, but we don’t always heed the voice or the warning as the case may be. As we read in Scripture,

“God speaketh once, yea twice, yet man perceiveth it not.”

Now that we have a complete Bible, there is no need for God to speak by an audible voice straight from heaven, as Fie did to Samuel in Old Testament ornes or to Saul on the road to Damascus. No, there is everything in His precious Book that we need to know, and though God may sometimes speak means of dreams, yet His usual way now is to bring some text of Scripture our notice that contains the message He has for us.

For instance, suppose we are in the Sunday-school, and someone gives an address on the text,

“All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

Many of the boys and girls may think nothing of it, yet there may be one or two that are arrested by it. The text strikes their attention, they think about it, they go home; but the text still seems to sound in their ears.

Why is this? ‘Very likely it is because God is speaking to them through that text, and they begin to think: If all have sinned, it must include me. Then they begin to say in their hearts,

“What must I do to be saved?”

When they reach that point, it is generally not long before they get the wer to the question,

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.”

Reader, have you believed on that blessed One?

ML 03/11/1945

Jesus Is Our Saviour

Jesus is our Saviour,

Full of tenderness

Now in Heaven He liveth

Little ones to bless.

Once He left His glory,

And the desert trod

As a lonely stranger,

Though the Son of God.

If our souls but trust Him

We can surely say,

All our sins so many

He has washed away;

For His blood most precious

Was for sinners spilt,

When He died on Calvary.

For our sin and guilt.

Jesus is our Saviour,

What have we to fear?

He will lead us onward

Through the desert drear.

Many sons to glory

He will surely bring

Jesus is our Captain,

Of His praise we’ll sing.

Jesus is our Saviour,

Who for us has died,

Jesus is our Shepherd,

Now to lead and guide;

‘Twas His grace that sought us,

Wandering far away;

‘Tis His grace that keeps us,

Near Him all the way.

ML 03/11/1945

A Question and the Answer

Luke 7:19-35

The wicked ruler Herod had put tthe prophet John in prison. Even there John heard of the wonderful miracles done by Jesus, and he sent men to ask Him this question:

“Art Thou He that should come, or look we for another?”

John had been certain that Jesus was the promised One to come from God, but being in prison was hard, and no doubt he supposed the Messiah would free him.

It seems Jesus did not answer the question right away; He kept on curing all the sick people about Him, casting out evil spirits, and giving sight to the blind. Afterward, He said to the men,

“Go your way, tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached.”

If those men did not see the dead raised, they could have the witness of many who had seen, even perhaps of the ones raised. All the wonderous things they saw, fulfilled the words of the prophets about the good to be done by the promised Messiah to come.

So Jesus’ answer taught John and Me men sent, that they could judge from the scriptures, which they knew, that Jesus was indeed “the One to come.” Even in prison John was to trust God’s words and believe Christ.

The promises of the Messiah freeing God’s people from all evil, was as true as the other good things; but the rulers did not accept Jesus as the Messiah. So the time did not then come for all evil to be stopped, and John was not freed from prison, and suffered a most unjust death.

Jesus told the people that John was the prophet written of long before:

“Behold, I send My messenger before Thy face, which shall prepare Thy way before Thee” (See also Mal. 3:1).

John came to announce the Lord Himself, so was the greatest of ad prophets; yet many did not believe his words, and such ones did not believe Jesus. They did not like John to live apart from them, and speak against their sins; neither did they like Jesus to live among the people, ready to forgive their sins. Jesus said,

“They are like unto children sitting in the market place, and calling one to another, “We have piped unto you and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you and ye have not wept.”

Jesus showed that the men, who were leaders of the people and should have been wise to believe, were like foolish, contrary people.

John the Baptist called them to mourn; they had no heart for it. Then came the Lord Jesus, bidding them, as it were, to rejoice at the glad tidings of great joy, but they heeded Him not, John was too strict, and the Lord Jesus was too gracious. They could not bear either, and in fact, man dislikes God. Whatever they might plead in the way of abuse of John or Jesus, “Wisdom is justified of her children.”

The children of wisdom (those in whom the wisdom of God worked) gave glory to it and its ways.

ML 03/11/1945

The Sea Side

It was a beautiful, bright day, and many people were spending it by the seaside. The waves sparkled in the sunshine, and, as far as the eye could reach, the sandy shore was a scene of pleasure and childish merriment—not a sad face was to be seen.

But will all of these dear children be always happy? They may be happy forever, if they have accepted the Lord Jesus Christ for their Saviour. And when they leave this world, they will live with Him in glory. He loved us so much that He came down from His home in heaven to die upon the cross to save us.

Now we desire to please zind it is a joy to the Lord to see His children making it their first and last object to know Him, and to live a life of thankfulness, loving and serving Him, because He first loved them.

May you be able to say from your heart,

“THE SON OF GOD, WHO LOVED ME, AND GAVE HIMSELF FOR ME.” Gal. 2:20.

ML 03/18/1945

The Happy Sunday Afternoon

A faithful servant of the Lord labored earnestly to win souls to Christ, and his efforts were much blessed, especially among those belonging to one of the Sunday schools. Among the scholars was E., the son of Christian parents, whose brothers and sisters were also the Lord’s. E. was often very anxious to be a Christian, and when his parents’ friends were speaking to each other of the things of God, he sometimes felt as though he would do anything if he could but partake in their joys, but he was very careful, through pride of heart, to hide his anxiety from those around him.

Many in the school, and also some of the boys in E.’s class, were brought by God to rejoice in the knowledge of the forgiveness of their sons, but E. remained unsaved and unhappy. One Sunday he left home for school, feeling utterly wretched. He had been very naughty that day, and had been punished, and was feeling the service of the devil to be hard, and was longing to know what real happiness and peace were! While waiting for the address—for there was to be an address in the school that afternoon—E. thought,

“The Bible says God answers prayer: why not ask Him to send some word to me this very afternoon?”

Acting upon the thought, he leaned forward and prayed earnestly for salvion that afternoon. He sat during the address anxiouly waiting for and expecting some word which would bring peace to his troubled heart, but none came Now, instead of believing what God says of all the work for salvation being done by Christ, he was looking for something which should change his heart and give him rest.

The address was finished and E. remained very wretched. Some of the school remained to pray, and then an who really desired salvation were asked to signify that they wished to be prayed for. E. longed to do so then, but the fear of what those around him might say, prevented him.

The meeting was over, and the Tempter began to fill E.’s mind with hard thoughts of God, saying to him, “You will never be saved. You asked God to save you this afternoon, and He says He answers prayer, but he hasn’t answered yours, so you may just as well give up all thoughts of it!”

While these thoughts were passing through his mind Mr. M., who had addressed the school, came up, and said to E.,

“You are Christ’s are you not?” E.’s only answer could be,

“No.” Mr. M. then drew him aside to a seat, saying,

“I thought you were a Christian. Tell me, do you believe you are a sinner, and that Jesus Christ, the Son of God. came down here on earth and died for sinner’s?”

All this poor E. did believe, and then Mr. M. said to him,

“What is to prevent your being saved now?”

At once the light from God flashed in on E’s soul; the Holy Spirit opened his heart to receive what God says, and he saw there was indeed no reason why he should not be saved_ Christ had done everything; he had only to accept Christ and to thank God. He knew that Jesus was his Saviour, who once was dead, but is now alive again—that there was nothing left for him to do but to thank and praise the Lord who had died for him.

Some time has passed by since that happy Sunday afternoon, and since that time E. has found how faithful Jesus is.

ML 03/18/1945

A Saviour and a Friend

Annie W. came to Jesus and found Him both a Saour and a Friend. By reason of her attention, and the pleasure she took in saying her text every Sunday for some time, I had thought that little Annie had something the other girls in her Sunday school class had not. So one afternoon I wrote her a little note, asking her whether she could say that Jesus was her Saviour.

The next Sunday afternoon, Annie brought me a note as follows: “Dear Teacher: In reply to your note, the Lord Jesus is to me a Saviour and a Friend; He died on the cross to save me from my sins and has washed me whiter than snow.

‘Whiter’ than snow’

‘Christ died for the ungodly’

‘The wages of sin is death.’

Your affectionate pupil,

Annie W.”

I have given her answer in her own words. Is it not a beautiful answer from a little girl? I wonder how many uf the girls and boys who read Messages of Love can say the same. It may be some of you are like another little girl, who wrote to me to the effect that she had no part nor lot in this matter! What a solemn thing to say!

O, girls and boys, if you did but know what is in the heart of this precious Saviour who died on the cross for sinners, how glady would you come to Him to receive blessing, and say, hear “I thy welcome voice,

Which calls me, Lord, to Thee,

For cleansing in Thy precious blood,

Which flowed on Calvary.”

He has said, “Him that cometh to Me will in no wise cast out.” Jno. 6:37.

ML 03/18/1945

The Game of Wishing

When, standing at the window

Awhile the other day,

I heard the sound of laughter

From little ones at play.

First one game, then another

Was chosen next as best,

Till Tommy’s younger brother.

Called out, “Now let us rest.”

“No! Let us tell our wishes,”

Said little Teddy Rose;

“My choice is always riches,

As everybody knows.”

They gathered round a doorstep,

To hear what each would say,

Well knowing it would only

Be spoken thus in play.

“I—I—I—I” came quickly

From half a dozen boys;

E’en Artie, though so weakly,

Was heard above the noise.

Each wanted to be foremost

To name some wondrous thing,

Although maybe the wishing

Were never known to bring.

Wealth, happiness, and pleasure,

Were spoken of by some;

They’d prove a fading treasure

When this life’s race is run.

“Now! Dickie,” cried the others,

“Come! speak, boy! like the rest,

And let us know what wonders

It is that you’d like best.”

Then Dickie, speaking slowly,

“I wish you all,” said he,

“But knew my blessed Saviour,

And with Him soon might be.”

“O taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man that trusteth in Him,” Psalms 34:8.

ML 03/18/1945

At a Supper

Luke 7:36-50

A man named Simon invited Jesus to come to his house for a meal. While they were eating, a woman came in and stood behind Jesus weeping.

The woman had not been invited, but had heard that Jesus was there, and she wanted so much to come to Him, that she seems not to have thought she was intruding, or of anything but of Him. Her tears fell on His feet and she wiped them with her hair and put on the ointment she had brought.

Why did she weep? It seems to have been because she was so grateful for something Jesus had done for her. And when she had heard He was there, she brought the best she could to honor Him.

It was a custom in that land, because of the warm, dusty streets, to remove the sandals at the door, and to bathe a guest’s feet, sometimes oil was then put on, and it was a mark of special honor to put oil on the head of a guest, also for the host to give a kiss of friendship.

Simon had not done any of those favors for Jesus, but the woman did much more, she wiped the dust from His feet with her own hair, and kissed His feet and put the oil on them. It was as though she did not feel worthy to place the oil on His head. It must have been the best ointment she could procure, as it was in an alabaster box, or flask, which are said to have come from Egypt, being used for expensive oil and perfumes.

But all she did was as a lowly servant, grateful to Jesus, and He was honored. But Simon was not so pleased; he thought to himself that if Jesus were a prophet He would have known this woman was a sinner, not fit to touch anyone.

Simon had heard Jesus talk to the people, and no doubt knew His great miracles, yet he doubted He was even great as a prophet. But Jesus knew Simon’s thoughts, and answered him, which should have made him realize that Jesus was even greater than any prophet. Jesus knew that the woman had sinned, for He said her sins were “many,” but He also knew she wept because of them, and notice what else He said of her sins, “They are forgiven.”

She had come humbly to the One who could forgive her all her sins, she loved and honored Him, and how His words before all must have comforted her! She had not even waited for what others might think a suitable time, she had come at once when she knew where Jesus was.

Some have thought this is the same woman as when the woman annointed Jesus a few days before His death, written of in Matthew 26; Mark 14, John 12, and both annointings were in the house of men named Simon, but this Simon is called, “a Pharisee,” and lived in Galilee.

That Simon is spoken of only as a leper, and lived in Bethany of Judea. This woman is not named; that woman was Mary of Bethany. The Lord said to Simon,

“Her sins, which are many, are forgiven.”

ML 03/18/1945

The Telephone

Most of you boys and girls have spoken over the telephone to some one who was at a distance. Is it not very wonderful to be able to speak to a person who may be thousands of miles away, and hear him, and he hears you as plainly as if in the same room.

Once a little girl I knew, discovered the furnace pipes red hot, and the house likely to take fire at any moment. Daddy and Mother were at a meeting where the Lord was being spoken of, and what was our little friend to do? Why, telephone to Daddy at once! This she did, and he told her how to check the furnace, and soon the danger was over. How good it was in this time of trouble, to speak right into the ears of her Daddy, even though he was a dstiance away.

This makes me think of another “telephone,” that is more wonderful than any made by man. Do you know of what I am thinking? Prayer is the Christian’s telephone, and by it we can speak right into God, the Father’s ear. O, what a wonderful ‘phone that is!

If we are God’s children by faith in Christ Jesus, we may use this ‘phone at any hour of the day or night. It is never “busy” as our earthly telephones sometimes are: the line is always open.

“The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open unto their prayers.” 1 Peter 3:12.

More wonderful still, the Lord somimes answers before we call, for He says,

“BEFORE THEY CALL, I WILL ANSWER; AND WHILE THEY ARE YET SPEAKING, I WILL HEAR.” Isaiah 65:24.

He invites us to use our prayer-telephone often. He says,

“Call upon Me.” He loves to have us speak to Him, as our earthly ‘Daddy loves to hear our voices. He says, “Let Me hear thy voice.”

So, in our joy or sorrow, let us use our “Royal Telephone.”

ML 03/25/1945

"He Giveth His Beloved Sleep"

There was a boy who loved the Word of God very much. He was accustomed to go by himself to read the Bible, and often would go down on the seashore for this purpose.

The neighboring boys would often make fun of him for this, and try to stop him, but he did not mind them, and kept on reading and enjoying the precious book.

One day, when they disturbed him more than usual, he got into a boat that was lying fastened to the shore, and went on with his reading. Now the boys, thinking they would have some sport, unfastened the rope of the boat, and let it go. Away it floated off in the tide, from the land, and before the little boy noticed, he was away out on the ocean. Was not that a condition of danger for the little fellow?

When he saw how it was, he began to use what means he had to get to shore, but it did no good. Away he floated out to sea, a helpless one, and night coming on, with all the dangers of storms and tossing waves before him, and possible starvation, too. But he was the Lord’s and he knew that He was near, and saw him in his loneless. And the Lord was preparing a way for his deliverance, in due time. But for the present he must know what it is to have faith in God. And besides, God meant to show the manner of His kindness, in the midst of the greatest danger. After all the efforts that the boy made were found to be in vain, at last, wearied out with watching for a vessel, the child fell asleep.

“He that keepeth Thee will not slumber. Behold He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.” Psalms 121:4,5.

Just think, out alone upon the ocear in a small boat, in the night, floating this way and that, and fast asleep. Yes, and it was by this sleep that God preserved him alive, and from anxiety, that he might not be able to know how badly off he was. Some have become insane by such things. But he was thus kept on through the night and day, too, while from a far-off distance a vessel was moving through the water towards him.

The captain looking out ahead saw something like a speck on the waves, away off in the long distance. Then taking a look through his glass, he thought it must be a little rowboat, that had got adrift from some vessel. So he turned the vessel toward it, lest there might be somebody in it. At last he came up to it, and saw that it really was a boat, and that some one was in it, lying on the bottom, but whether dead or asleep, he could not tell. He made a noise so as to rouse him. He threw something into the boat to startle him, and had the joy of waking up a boy, and the very boy of our story. He then took him and his boat into his vessel, and thus, as ‘the messenger that God sent, delivered him from death. The dear child had not really known the danger he was in for many hours, and though hungry, was refreshed in mind and body by the sleep. This was God’s way of keeping him, till deliverance should come.

“The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them.” Psalms 34:7.

Everywhere God is showing His kindness in these ways. But it reminds me of that One who came to deliver us, poor lost sinners, down here, floating along in sin and ruin, not knowing how lost our condition was. Well, Christ knew, and came to save us. Will you allow Him to take you up, as the captain did this boy? He will become the Captain of your salvation.

“Christ died for our sins.” 1 Corinthians 15:3.

“God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

ML 03/25/1945

Lost for Three Days

I want to tell you about a man who was lost, not for some hours, but for three days. This man went walking alone in a great forest; he had taken nothing with him but a gun and some eatables. When he had walked for some hours, it seemed to him impossible to find his way back again.

What three terrible days and nights he passed through there! They seemed to him as so many years. He was despairing of ever getting out, when he heard suddenly a gun-shot. You can imagine, what an effect this had on him. That shot sounded sweeter in his ears than the most beautiful music. Now he hoped to be saved. And what do you think he did? He answered that shot directly by shooting off his own gun. He did not wait; he did not put it off. O no! his position was too serious to allow of delay.

Scarcely had he fired off his gun, when an Indian appeared from behind the trees. Although the latter understood very little English, and our friend knew nothing of the Indian language, they managed to understand one ather. Our lost friend had but one desire, and that was, to get out of the forest, and to be brought to a safe place. The Indian agreed to be his guide, on condition that he gave him a certain number of dollars. The bargain was soon arranged. They set off, and after some time the wanderer was at home, and gladly paid the Indian the money he had promised him.

If the shot from a gun was such joy for the poor, lost man, how delightful must be the glad tidings of God’s grace to a poor sinner, who feels that he is lost! How earnest was the question of the jailor at Philippi:

“What must I do to be saved?” And how beautiful the answer of the servants of the Lord:

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:30,31.

Have you, dear reader, heard God’s glad tidings to lost sinners? O, yes! surely. It has come to you often. And have you acted as wisely as the waerer in the woods, who immediately answered the shot? In other words, is your soul now saved through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ?

ML 03/25/1945

Three Grateful Women

Luke 8:1-3

When Jesus went to every city and town about Galilee to tell people God’s words and to teach them, many women went with Him and the disciples.

They followed Him to hear more of His words and see the good He did for others, because they were so grateful for what He had done for them. Each one of them had been healed of some disease, or freed of evil spirits.

Three of these women are named: first Mary Magdalene, who may have had most to be grateful for, since Jesus had freed her of seven evil spirits. We may not understand these, but they were common in that land, where for many years the people had turned from God, and worshipped idols. The wicked spirits never did good, but distressed or hurt the person, so the condition of this woman would have been dreadful, and her heart was filled with gratitude to Jesus.

The next woman named is Joanna; her trouble is not told, but she was another Jesus had cured, and she was truly grateful. Her husband was a steward, or treasurer for Herod, the ruler of Galilee; that would be called a good position, yet Joanna thought more of hearing the Lord’s words and followed Him with the others, and must have walked over hilly, dusty roads.

The last woman here named was Susanna; no special thing was written of her, but she was another so grateful for the Lord’s goodness to her, that she also followed Him, and we may be sure these women all spoke to others of the good Jesus had done for them.

There is something else told of these women: “they ministered unto Him of their substance.” That means thee: willingly gave to Jesus of what they had, not because they were told to, or asked, but of their own wish; the. served Him with food or with money or clothing, happy to do for Him.

When Jesus made His last visit to Jerusalem, many women of Galilee were in the company with Him, still serving Him in what ways they could. Mary Magdalene is named as one of them, and no doubt Joanna was also, as both are named being at His tomb, and found He had risen. They had deepest joy then, and later Jesus Himself spoke to them (Matt. 27:55,56; Luke 23:55 and 24:10; Matt. 28:9).

These women did not weary of heang the words of Jesus, or of doing for Him. Others must have been helped by their trust, and the Lord Himself was honored. The women were not sent to preach the glad tidings, as the apostles were, yet this shows they held with needed things, and it was written that women now, even the younger ones, will know that the Lord is pleased with whatever is done from love to Him, because of the great good He had already done.

“As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all, especially unto them who are of the household faith.” Galatians 6:10.

“God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have showed toward His Name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” Hebrews 6:10.

ML 03/25/1945

Answers to Bible Questions for January

“The Children’s Class”

1.“But now is,” etc. 1 Cor. 15:20

2.“And when,” etc. 11:24

3.“For I,” etc. 2:2

4.“Therefore let,” etc. 3:21

5.“For after,” etc. 1:21

6.“For ye are,” etc. 6:20

7.“That they may be saved.” 10:33

Bible Questions for April

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Ephesians

1. Write in full the verse with the words, “Raised Him from the dead.”

2.Write in full the verse with the words, “The forgiveness of sins.”

3.Write in full the verse with the words, “Christ also loved the church.”

4.Write in full the verse with the words, “Who is rich in Mercy.”

5.Write in full the verse with the words, “As the servants of Christ.”

6.Write in full the verse with the words, “Forgiving one another.”

7.What “passeth knowledge”?

Answers to Bible Questions for January

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Christ. 1 Corinthians 10:4.

2.A man and wife who had the church in their house. 1 Corinthians 16:19.

3.Disciples at Corinth whom Paul baptized. 1 Corinthians 1:14.

4.A servant of the Lord. 1 Corinthians 9:6.

5.One who saw the Lord after His resurreion. 1 Corinthians 15:7.

6.“Let him he accursed, the Lord cometh.” 1 Corinthians 16:22.

Bible Questions for April

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The answers are to be found in Ephesians

1.Where is Ephesus? (use map).

2.Who are Gentiles?

3.Who was Tychicus?

4.List in order the five gifts to the church.

5.Who is the Corner Stone of the church?

6.Who is the Head of the church?

7.Who is the Seal of the believer?

ML 04/01/1945

Why Am I Not a Christian?

Is it because I am afraid of ridicule? “Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of Me, and of My words, ... ..of him also shall the Son of Man be ashamed.” Mark 8:38.

Is it because of the inconsistencies of professing Christians?

“Every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” Romans 14:12.

Am I not willing to give up all to Christ?

“What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” Mark 8:36.

Am I afraid that I shall not be accepted?

“Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

Is it that I fear I am too great a sinner?

“The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

Is it because I fear I shall not “hold out?”

“He which hath begun a good work in you, will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6.

Am I thinking that I will, do as well as I can, and that God ought to be satisfied with that?

“Whosoever shall keep the whole law and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.” James 2:10.

Is it because I am postponing the matter, without any definite reason?

“Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” Proverbs 27:1.

ML 04/01/1945

The Widow's Bible

A widow woman was mourning over a son who had enlisted for a soldier. One day another young man from the same town was going to join the army, so he called on the widow and asked her if she had any message he could take to her son.

She replied that she was very poor, and had no money to send but that she would send him a Bible. She also added,

“Give my love to him, and tell him it is my earnest wish that he would read this book, and, beginning at Matthew, read one chapter every day.”

The young man took the Bible, and after joining the army found his friend, who asked him,

“Well, have you seen my mother, and how is she?”

“She is well,” he replied, “and has sent you this Bible with the request, which may perhaps be her last, that you would read a chapter of it every day.”

“Well,” said he, “I will do so if you will join with me in reading it.”

The agreement was made, and they started reading chapter by chapter till they reached the third chapter of John’s gospel, which seemed somehow to strike them both. A Christian soldier explained that chapter to them, and God by His spirit blessed it so that they both had the joy of knowing their sins were forgiven. The peace of God filled their hearts.

Soon after this they were called into battle, and the son of the widow was wounded and carried to the field hospital.

At night his friend went to look for his comrade, and found him with the same Bible open, as if he had been reading it, but his spirit had gone to be with the Lord.

“The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” Psalms 19:7.

ML 04/01/1945

Moses

Moses’ father and mother were Hebrews and lived to Egypt, and the king ol Egypt, Pharaoh, had said that all the baby boys that belonged to the Hebrews were to be cast into the river.

God’s eye was upon this baby, Moses, for He was going to make him a great man when he was grown up, so God was caring for him.

The parents of Moses had faith that God would protect him, so they hid their baby boy for three months, then his mother did a very strange thing.

She took an ark or basket of buushes and covered it with pitch so no water could get in, and she put the child in it and laid it among the flags by the side of the river.

One day the king’s daughter came along and found the baby and wanted it for her own.

He grew up to be a man in Pharaoh’s court, and could have been the greatest man in the country next to the king. but he knew he was one of God’s people, and had faith in God, and refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.

He had his eyes fixed on eternal realities, and he esteemed the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt.

“YEA, AND ALL THAT WILL LIVE GODLY IN CHRIST JESUS SHALL SUFFER PERSECUTION.” 2 Tim. 3:12.

ML 04/01/1945

The Parable of the Sower

Luke 8:4-21

And when much people were gathered together, and were come to Him (Jesus), out of every city, He spake by a parable:

“A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it.

“And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture.

“And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up with it, and choked it.

“And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold.”

We have read this parable in the books of Matthew and Mark, but it was a most important one, told also by Luke. And, since the Lord told it when such a great crowd of people were present, “out of every city” of that district, He must have wanted all to think of it carefully. After He told it, He spoke loudly, saying,

“He that bath ears to hear, let him hear.”

What could be plainer than that? We are all to be sure we think of, and believe these words. Even small children can understand about sowing seed.

We know a parable has a lesson hidden in the story, but we cannot mistake the lesson in this parable, because Jesus Himself explained it. He said, “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.”

His next words explained that “the ground” where the “seed” could “grow” was the minds and hearts of people who, heard God’s word.

And “the good ground,” Jesus said, “are they, which in an honest and a good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit, with patience.”

An “honest heart” knows it is not fit for God, and a “good heart” believes God’s words. That is what God wants of us, to be honest about ourselves, and to believe His words. Then His words “take root and grow.”

One who hears God’s words, but lets others tell him they are not true or are not needed, is like the wayside wher the seed is trodden on, or the birds or Satan snatches it away, and it can never take root. Satan is afraid they, will believe the Word and be saved.

One who hears God’s Word and thinks of it some, but if friends tempt or ridicule, gives it up; it is like the plants which wither away on stony ground.

Others who hear God’s Word, but think more of their work, or their pleasures, or something they have, are like the ground where the thorns choked out the good seed. They are utterly indifferent to God’s words.

Let us each ask ourselves, “which kind of ground” is my heart? Do I let the good “seed” of God’s Word “take root and grow” in my heart?

First be honest and confess to God that you could not save your soul, then believe His promise of the One to save—, the Lord Jesus.

ML 04/01/1945

Spring

Lord, we thank Thee for the sunshine,

For the sweet and balmy air;

All around us Thou hast lavished

Lifts which tell thatbThou art here.

Lord, the leaves to us are speaking,

Waving gently in the breeze;

“Life is short,” they seem to tell us,

“Not for long we grace the trees.”

Ah! Lord Jesus, Thou hast told us,

As a leaf we all do fade;

But in death we hail the advent

Of a life beyond the grave.

Spring is ours, as well as autumn,

An eternal, fadeless spring;

On the Resurrection Morning

Perfected, Thy praise we’ll sing.

Never more shall we be weary,

Never bear one taint of sin

Speed the wings of time, Lord Jesus,

Love’s eternity begin.

“Surely I come quickly. Amen, ever so, come, Lord Jesus.” Revelation 22:20.

ML 04/08/1945

How a Chinaman Got His Dinner

A poor old Christian Chinaman called Joe had a cousin, a Buddhist priest, who took pity on him, and used to call every dinnertime when he was near to leave him a bit of dinner, and Joe would always say,

“Grace be to the Lord Jesus because of His bounty,” and when he had eaten,

“Thanks to the Heavenly Father.” One day the cousin got rather cross, and said to Joe,

“Why do you always say those words?”

“‘Well,” said Joe, “because it is the Heavenly Father who gives it to me.”

“No, it is not,” said the Buddhist priest; “it is I who bring it. Wait until tomorrow, and then you will see if your dinner comes from your Heavenly Father, or from your cousin.”

Tomorrow came, and dinner-time, but the Buddhist priest did not come, and Joe had no dinner, so he went to his room and prayed aloud, something like this:

“Heavenly Father, my cousin said that it is not You that sends me my dinner. He says it is he that sends it, and, Heavenly Father, he has not come today, so I do not have any dinner.”

Hearing a noise outside, he paused. Then, rising from his knees, he went outside his house and saw a large bird with something in its beak, and another one fighting it, when flop came the meat into Joe’s yard.

“It is the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ,” he said. He put the meat into a pot, and was feeling very happy. While it, was cooking in came his cousin, in,

“Well, and where is your dinner?” he said.

“Look in the pot and see,” said Joe. He looked, and smelt it was something good.

“Where did you get it from?”

“The Heavenly Father sent it, and when He sends a dinner, He always sends a good one,” replied Joe, as his heart swelled with gratitude to the God of whom it is written,

“Trust on the Lord and do good; so shalt thou be fed.” Psalms 37:3.

“This must be a strange God that you worship. I worship idols, I pray to idols, but I never heard of such a wonderful answer to prayer. Your God must be a wonderful God. I would like to worship Him.”

He became interested in the Christian religion, was soon an anxious inquirer and eventually that Buddhist became a Christian. He was one of the martyrs who laid down their lives for the Lord Jesus Christ.

“All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Matthew 21:22.

“Hitherto ye have asked nothing in My Name, ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.” John 6:24.

ML 04/08/1945

"Wait or Me"

Among the passengers in a street car, in which I was riding not long ago, were some little children with their father and mother. At a certain place the car stopped, and the mother got out, taking two of the children with her. The father was the last to leave, carrying in his arms a dear little boy of about five years of age, when suddenly the little fellow cried out in a frightened manner, “Wait for me.”

You can guess how everybody smiled at the little one’s fear of being left behind, while his father’s strong arms bore him safely out to the others. And yet how much this is like many who love the Lord Jesus!

I expect you remember that beautiful parable of the lost sheep—indeed, I hope you often read your Bible—where the Lord Jesus Himself tells that woerful story of the sheep that strayed away; how the shepherd went after it, and did not cease to seek until he found it. When he had found it, he laid it on his shoulders rejoicing; and never did he once let go his precious treasure.

What would you think now, if the sheep had said out to the shepherd,

“Wait for me?” Why, you would say, “Where the shepherd went, the sheep went, too; because it was on his shoulders.”

And so I would just say to you, dear boys and girls, who have put your trust in the Lord Jesus, that you are in quite as safe a place as that poor sheep that was found, and that the Shepherd who has found you will never leave you, nor forsake you, and you will never need to cry to Him, “Wait for me,” for until He brings you to that bright home in the skies, He will make you His constant care all life’s journey through.

“He shall feed His flock like a shepherd: He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom.” Isaiah 40:11.

Yes, Jesus is the Good Shepherd, and in order that He might find us, and have us with Him forever, He had to give up His own life, to suffer on the cross for our sins, and shed His precious blood to make us clean and pure, whiter even than the snow, that we might be made fit to dwell with Him in that place where nothing enters in that defiles.

May you still trust His tender care,

Until He brings you safely there.

ML 04/08/1945

Safety in Obedience

In Prussia once (the tale’s oft told),

A man had to attend

To switch the railway lines, that trains

Straight on their way might wend.

As from afar two trains came on,

He saw his boy at play,

Unconscious of the danger near,

Within the rails one day.

The father dared not leave his post,

The rails must be set straight,

Or swiftly would the trains collide

If he should be too late.

What should he do?

What agony then rent the father’s heart!

His darling child, or hundred lives

Depended on his part.

He soon resolved his work to do;

Then, knowing that his son

Implicitly his word obeyed,

He cried, when that was done;

“Lie down, my son, at once, lie down”;

The boy the word obeyed;

He knew his father’s will was right,

Between the lines he laid.

With noise of thunder sped the trains;

O, how the father feared,

Till every carriage passed the spot,

When, safe, his boy appeared!

What pleasure filled that father’s heart!

How clasped he to his breast

His darling child, thus saved from death,

By doing his request!

So God commands all everywhere,

“Repent—own Christ as Lord”;

And all are saved from hell, who now

Obey His sovereign word.

And those who heed His loving voice

And trust the Saviour now,

Are brought to know God doth rejoice

When they to Jesus bow.

“Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near.” Isaiah 55:6.

ML 04/08/1945

In a Storm

Luke 8:22-40

How it came to pass on a certain day, that He (Jesus) went into a ship with His disciples; and He said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth.

“But as they sailed, He fell asleep; and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy (danger).

“And they came to Him, and awoke Him, saying, ‘Master, Master, we perish.’ Then He arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water; and they ceased, and there was a great calm.”

The men had seen the power of Jesus to cure the sick and raise the dead, yet they greatly wondered that He could quiet a storm. They said to one another,

“What manner of man is this! for He commandeth even the wind and water and they obey Him.” See also Mark 4:35-41.

The disciples. did not then realize that Jesus was the Son of God, the One with God the Father when the seas and land were made,

“All things were made by Him.” John 1:3.

He taught them by their danger, more of Who He was, and showed them they had little trust, When He had said, “Let us go to the other side,” would they not surely reach there? Was He not with them?

His word was sure, they would not sink under the stormy waves.

But Jesus’ words, “Let Us go-to the other side” are for us too. He said,

“Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:20.

We cannot see Him as the disciples did, yet He is still with His own in spirit, and is teaching them by the troubles to trust Him more.

“The Lord hath His way in the whirlwind and in the storm.” Nahum 1:3.

No storm of trouble, but He can give peace. We shall surely reach “the other side,” which for us is Heaven, for He also said, “They shall never perish.” John 10:28.

That day when Jesus and the disciples landed on the shore, they saw a man living among the tombs, and very fierce, because of wicked spirits living within him. He had been bound with chains, but broke them.

In spite of his dreadful condition, thc Lord Jesus had power to free him, and commanded the evil spirits to leave him. They did so, but went into a herd of swine feeding near, and the whole herd ran “violently” down steep hill into the lake and drowned.

What of the man who had been so tormented? He sat down quietly at Jesus’ feet, thankful for what Jesus had done for him, and wanting to be with Him. But the saddest part of this story is that, when the men who kept the swine, ran to tell the owners what had happened, they, with many other people of the town, came to Jesus and begged Him to leave their lands. They were afraid more. of their animals would be lost, and that meant more to them than that Jesus should save persons fruit, such awful misery as that man. So Jesus went away.

ML 04/08/1945

Crossing the Stream

We shall have to cross the stream without steppingstones today, Tim; and I must carry you on my back, the water will be so deep after all this rain.”

Tim clapped his hands, for he thought this would be fun.

When they got to the stream, the water was higher than Nancy expected; but she sat down and took off her shoes and stockings, and put them into the basket. Then she lifted Tim on her shoulders, and told him to keep still, and she would carry him safely over. After this she stepped carefully into the water.

“It is not very wide,” said Nancy to herself; “but the water is very strong. How it dashes along! I hope I shall get over.”

She was in the middle of the stream now, and Tim, instead of keeping still, began to throw his arms about.

“O, do keep quiet,” said Nancy; but as she spoke, Tim gave himself such a jerk, that she was obliged to let the basket go, and to use both hands to keep him from falling. But away floated the basket.

“It will be lost! it will be lost!” said Nancy. But Frisk, the dog, swam after the basket, and seizing it with his teeth, managed to drag it to the other side of the stream, where he stood beside it wagging his tail.

So they went over safely,—Nancy, Tim, the dog and the basket! Little Tim was asked to put his trust in his big sister, and let her take him across the water.

Well dear readers, you and I are to put our trust in the Lord Jesus for our soul salvation, just in the same simple manner as Tim did in his sister.

“Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.” Psalms 2:12.

ML 04/15/1945

"Hath"

One day over nineteen hundred years ago, the Lord Jesus. was speaking to a number of people about His Father. He told them some of the wonderful things which. His Father had power to do. He also said the following-words,

“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.

Although the above wonderful words were spoken such a long time ago, yet theya re as true now as they were then.

I sincerely trust that my readers will be wise, and believe and accept the Lord Jesus as their own Saviour and Lord, and will then he possessors, and not rejecters of

EVERLASTING LIFE.

ML 04/15/1945

A Boy and His Sheep

In an old cabin on the side of a mountain, a boy lay very sick. It was such a poor home, his bed was only a heap of straw. His father brought a kind man to talk with him.

The man asked him how he got such a dreadful cough, and the boy told him this story: One stormy winter day he had gone to hunt a lost sheep. The snow covered the ground and the wind blew cold and the mountain paths drifted over.

“Did you find the sheep?” asked the man.

“O yes,” said the boy, “I kept on till I did, I was so anxious to find it.”

“And were they were,—father, mother, and the neighbors.”

“I just laid it on my shoulders and carried it home.”

“And were they glad to see you?”

“Sure enough they were,—father, mother, and the neighbors.”

Then the man told him his story was like one in the Bible of a man who hunted for a lost sheep, and carried it home on his shoulders. Then he told him that the Lord Jesus came from heaven to save people who were lost through their sins, how He died because of our sins, and every one who trusts Him He will take safe Home-to Himself.

The boy had never learned to read, and did not know before of the Saviour’s love, He believed the words read to him, and was happy for the Lord to take him Home. His last words were,

“Jesus, my Saviour and my Shepherd.”

The story read was Luke 15:4-8. You may have heard it often, but do you trust in the Good. Shepherd’s love as this boy did?

“What man ... , having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine ... ., and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it he layette it on his shoulders rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.” Luke 15:4-6.

“The Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10.

ML 04/15/1945

A Well Known Text

Auntie brought us a text; it was worked with her own hands, in blue letters on a white ground, and neatly mounted in a black and gold frame. There it hangs, where all who enter the room can see it; and it is a beautiful, beautiful text!

Now, dear children, it was while I was looking at the well-known words that I felt it calling upon me to be aays telling you of the love of Jesus; and it spoke afresh to my heart of many wonderful things. It pictured bore my eyes a scene that occurred many years ago, one of the most toucng that the world has ever known—a scene artists have loved to paint, and poets have loved to write about; but far beyond all, a scene which the Spirit of God has set before us in His word, in such simple, home-like language that the heart of a little child may be moved by the very words themselves, although they tell of One now at the right hand of God, even of His Son, Christ Jesus. Yes, this is the text:

“Suffer the little children to come unto Me.”

You all know those beautiful words, and from whose gracious lips they fell, but do you know Him as your own Saviour? And who, of all those who love Jesus, could refrain from telling you of Himself, after He has said,

“Suffer the little children to come unto Me?” Mark 10:14.

Now, many of you, dear children know something of the love of Jesus for yourselves, and when little brothers and sisters ask you to tell them a story; or sing, or read aloud to them, remember that Jesus said,

“Suffer the little children to come unto Me,” and talk, sing, and read of His love.

Only a book for a child to read,

But what is the theme of its story?

Telleth it aught of a Saviour’s love,

Of the risen Man in the glory?

Only a song for a child to sing,

But what is the note of its sounding?

Is it of Him, whose wonderful love

Is ever and all-abounding?

Remember the charge, concerning that child,

That to you in His word is given: “

Suffer the children to come unto Me

For of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

ML 04/15/1945

Trusting Jesus Only

I would follow Jesus

Closely in the way,

Going where He pleases,

Loving to obey;

On His arm be leaning

In this weary place,

Constantly be tasting

Of His precious grace.

Learning very sweetly

Lessons of His grace,—

Catching through the portals,

Glimpses of His face;

Shining from the glory

Of my Home above,

Shedding sunshine o’er me,

Telling of His love.

Trusting Jesus only,

Keeping by His side,

Taking Him who’s worthy

As my trusty Guide;

Gently to the haven,

Nearing day by day,

I would walk with Jesus—

Jesus is “The Way.”

ML 04/15/1945

The Ruler's Daughter

Luke 8:41-56

In one city where Jesus came, the daughter of the leader, or ruler, in the syagnogue was dying. Her father had no doubt heard Jesus teach, and knew the miracles He had done for so many, and he hurried to Jesus, asking Him to come to his house and heal his little girl.

But before they reached the home, messengers came to say the girl had died. They said,

“Trouble not the Master.” They thought it was too late for Jesus to help. But the Lord knew differently: He told the father,

“Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.”

They went on to the home, and found the friends and relatives weeping and “bewailing” the girl’s death. These people cried aloud when there was a death, because they knew death had come into the pleasant earth God had made, because God was disobeyed. Now, people decorate the room, and the dead person, to hide that death is a sad thing.

Then by the law of God whoever touched a dead person was “defiled,” or “unclean,” not fit to enter the Temple or worship God, until cleansed as the law required. (Num. 19:1-13). But even the animal, “without spot, or blemish,” slain for their cleansing, taught of Christ Who by His own death was to “deliver them” from fear of death, and cleanse them from the sin which caused death (Heb. 2:14-15).

Even then Jesus had power over death, and did not hesitate to go near or touch the dead; He was holy and could not be defiled (Heb. 7:26). So that day He went into the room, and took the little girl by the hand, and said to her, “Arise.” Her spirit came again to her body, she arose to the great joy of her father and mother.

It seems the Lord did not want this great act told: perhaps that people, should not follow Him merely to see a miracle. But He brought great comfort to the father and mother who believed Him.

Jesus spoke of the girl as “asleep,’ so now those who die “in Christ,” their bodies are said to be “asleep” in Him; and their spirits already “present the Lord” (2 Cor. 5:8). Before He comes to call His people to rise, there are still needy ones to save, as, that day He and the anxious father could not pass quickly on the way, because of the crowd, and He stopped to speak to one poor woman.

This woman had a serious sickness a long time and no doctor could help her. She had heard of Jesus, and she thought if she could only touch His clothes, His power would heal her. So she pressed close behind Him in the crowd and touched the hem of His garment, Her great trust was rewarded; she was at once well.

But Jesus knew He had been touched by one needy, and He asked who had done it. The woman feared He was displeased, and trembled as she knelt before Him and told Him. But Jesus spoke most kindly to her:

“Daughter (a friendly name), be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.”

ML 04/15/1945

Mount Corcoran

We have here a picture of a mountain in the western part of the United States. Perhaps some of our readers live near enough to this mountain to see it from their homes.

It is a very beautiful sight with the pretty lake and big trees in the foreground.

“As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the Lord is round about His people from henceforth even forever.” Psalms 125:2.

So those whom the Lord is protecting can never he harmed.

“The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and Be shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, ‘Destroy them’,” Deuteronomy 33:27.

There is one enemy who would like to keep away from the Lord all those who do not yet know Him; and draw away from Him all who do know Him. This enemy is Satan. But Jesus says,

“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.” John 10:27- 28.

ML 04/22/1945

I Shall be Satisfied

Rose was ten years of age, and a very plain child; so much so, that her companions made fun of her and called her “the ugly child.”

Now Rose did not like this, but so well trained was she in the ways of truth and peace, that she answered nothing, but was all the more grieved at her infirmity, as she thought.

Being a little Christian, she began to wonder why God had not made her pretty and attractive, that instead of scorn she might have the love and friendship of those around.

This led her to search the Bible for some verses to comfort her, and teach her why all are not alike. Soon she came to that beautiful passage:

“I shall be satisfied when I awake in Thy likeness.” Psalms 17:15.

O, how sweet to know that she would be like Jesus in heaven, pure, sinless, and lovely, with not a tear to dim her eyes, nor a grief to burden her little heart.

Musing thus, a whisper seemed to echo through her, “Tell the little girls at school that when you see Jesus you will be like Him.”

Next morning after school was over, several girls were walking home with her when one said,

“I do like pretty people, don’t you, Selina? but not ugly ones like Rose.”

This was meant to reach her, so turning round she looked at them and timidly said,

“I shall not always be ugly, for I shall be pure, sinless and beautiful when I awake in my Saviour’s likeness, for I shall be like Him, and with Him forever.”

O, what a look of surprise came over the children’s faces, and bursting into a loud laugh they ran off, exclaiming, “I wonder when that will be?”

A few days after this incident, Rose was not at school, being ill; so, many of the little girls called at her house, among whom were the children mentioned as laughing at her.

They were very sorry now for all their unkindness to her, and when they saw her pale face, and heard that she was very ill, they thought of her words, and longed to be as sure of Jesus she was.

Daily they inquired for her, but still no improvement.

One sunny morning they came to the house, but fear made them stop in their eagerness to knock, for all was quiet. No need to ask why, no occasion to ask how Rose was.

Gone? Yes; to be forever with Jesus, who had loved her more than any one, and transplanted His little flower to a fairer realm above; wsshed in His precious blood and made, pure and sinless through believing on Him.

Whilst standing in mute astonishment and sorrow, the door was softly opened and Rose’s father came out, tearful and sad. When he saw the children, he took their hands and said,

“She is gone, my dears, to be forever with Jesus, and sent you a message: Tell my little school girls I did pray for them, and want them to trust the Lord Jesus; and when they come to die, they will not be afraid, but willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8.

Her words sank deeply into their hearts, and when tempted to despise anything which God’s hand had made, they thought of her and the Saviour whom she had gone to dwell with.

From thinking and longing to be free from sin, they prayed for faith in Christ, and I hope at last trusted in Him who had so loved them, and given Himself for them.

“God so loved the world, that He gave His only Begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not parish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

ML 04/22/1945

Percy's Letter

Percy’s father was chief engineer on board a trading steamer, and was often away from home for months at a time. Every Saturday, Percy wrote a letter to his father, giving him the week’s news, with all their family joys and sorrows.

The absent father was always glad to hear of his loved ones, and although sundered from them by land and sea, he carried them on, his heart, and prayed for them daily at the throne of grace.

His great desire was to see his boys — of whom Percy was the eldest — saved, and serving the Lord. During his time at home, he had frequently seen Percy anxious to be saved, but these impressions had passed away, once and again.

On a Saturday afternoon, Percy sat down to write his father’s letter. It had been an unusually busy week, and there was much to tell of. Over and above the usual news of home and school, he had to give his father an account of a week’s special services, which had been conducted by an earnest evangelist in the town at which he and his mother had been every night. Many of the young people had been converted, and others were deeply impressed. Percy himself had been spoken with several nights, and his mother believed he was concerned about his soul, but he had said nothing of it either to her or to his brothers. As he sat at a table writing, his mother passing by, and Percy, looking up, said,

“Mother, if a person believes in Jesus and accepts Him as his Saviour, will he always be saved after that?”

“Certainly, my boy,” said his mother; “for Jesus says,

‘He that believeth on me hath everlasting life’” John 6:47.

“Whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:15.

ML 04/22/1945

The Little Children's Saviour

JESUS SAID:

Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God... And He took them tin in His arms, put His hands upon them, and blessed them.” Mark 10:14,16.

Little babes with Jesus resting,

Nothing know of sin or care;

Naught of sorrow they are tasting,

Naught of pain or sickness there.

Every trouble left behind them,

Never to be felt again,

If remembered, would remind them,

Of their great and endless gain:

Of their first and fallen nature,

Far from God and born in sin;

And how such a ruined creature

God to heaven could welcome in.

Babes who have not known transgression,

Yet are helpless, hopeless, lost:

But to make them His possession

Jesus paid a priceless cost.

Happy babes! with Jesus resting,

Safely on His bosom laid;

Nothing ever there molesting,

Nothing there to make afraid.

How they love their tender Saviour,

Thank Him for His precious blood,

And for such a home forever,

Home of pleasures there with God.

ML 04/22/1945

Food in a Desert

Luke 9:1-22

Jesus sent His disciples to the towns about the land to tell people about the time of God’s kingdom or rule on earth. This time was written of in the scriptures, and the prophet John had told them to confess and leave their sinful ways, to be ready for God’s time of blessing.

In that time all must be done righteously, there would be none poor or in pain or trouble, and Jesus gave the disciples power to do great miracles to show the people the power of God’s kingdom. He said the people should receive them to their homes and do for them as God’s messengers.

It is not here told how they were treated by people where they went, but that they told Him all when they returned. After that, Jesus had them go with Him to a wilderness land for a time of quiet. But people heard where they had gone and ever so many followed them.

Jesus taught them again and healed all who needed healing. When it came near evening, the disciples thought the people should start for their homes. But Jesus did not like them to go without food, as no doubt it was a long distance to walk, and He said for the disciples to give them food.

The men said all the food was only five loaves of bread and two fish; that would feed only a few of the many people. Yet Jesus said to have them all sit down. Perhaps you know the rest of this wonderful event, how Jesus gave thanks to God for what they had, then broke all in pieces, and in His hands the pieces became many, for there was plenty for all.

Do you know how many thousand men were led that meal, from the five loaves and two fish? And there were twelve baskets of pieces left. We do not know the size of the loaves, perhaps quite small, as a boy had them (John 6:9), but we know it was a great miracle that many were fed.

This showed the people how surely they would be provided for, by Jesus as their Messiah; all were cared for alike and enough for all. They had all heard how God had sent the small flakes from heaven, called manna, to provide food for all their nation for forty years in desert lands; and this would teach them it must be the same care and power of God, that day. It was a promise of God’s rule that Christ would satisfy the poor with bread (Psa. 132:15).

The people wondered which one of the great prophets Jesus was; his disciples were certain He was greater than any prophet. He asked them, “Whom say ye that I am?”

“The Christ of God,” Peter answered.

There was no doubt to Peter that Jesus was the Christ, or The Messiah, (which means the same), the Anointed One from God.

Jesus did not tell them that He would soon take the throne as Israel’s King, as they expected Him to do. Instead, He told them sad words, that He would suffer many things from the “elders, chief priests and scribes”, who were the leaders of the people. Jesus told His disciples plainly that He would die. but that He would rise the third day. He knew that He was to be refused as the Messiah.

ML 04/22/1945

The Hungry Quartette

Poor hungry little kittens! How they do long for the milk they usually find in the little white bowl. The grasshopper seems not to understand their plight. When milk was put in regularly, do you suppose they appreciated it? Human beings are inclined to take the supplying of their daily needs for granted, and then complain when these provisions are cut off.

Now, as many know, the word “milk” is often used to mean the Word of God. How easy it is now to obtain a Bible and to read it, and thus obtain the necessary food for our souls. Yet this food is not prized as highly by a great many people as it was when people had to save their earnings for many months, and then walk perhaps fifty miles to buy a Bible.

The empty bowl suggests two things which show the necessity of feeding well on the “sincere milk of the Word” while we can do so. One is, we may lose our eyesight, and we then would wish we had read the Bible more, and learned more about the Lord Jesus. The other is the fact that in some countries people are not allowed to own a copy or to read the Scriptures.

We cannot tell how long we may have our eyesight, or how long we may be permitted to read God’s Word. If we have taken Christ as our Saviour we do know that whatever of this blessed Book we have fed upon and hidden in our hearts, is ours to enjoy throughout all eternity.

“Thy Word have I hid in mine heart that I might not sin against Thee.” Psalms 119:11.

“The scripture saith, whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.” Romans 10:11.

ML 04/29/1945

His Love and His Power

The question was asked in a Sunday school, “When the Good Shepherd found the sheep, how did He bring it home?”

Many of the dear children answered the question correctly, “On His shoulders.”

I have sometimes heard it read, “On His shoulder;” but this is not true. A butcher might unfeelingly sling a poor sheep over one shoulder, but the Shepherd could not do so. How uncomfortable the poor thing would be, with its head hanging over the shepherd’s back! No, the Good Shepherd holds all the legs firmly, two in each hand, and places the sheep gently on His shoulders, its poor weary head resting on His loving bosom. What a place of love and peace, ourselves the object of that love and power!

A dear aged servant of the Lord twould often ask the question,

“On Whom does it depend now whether the poor, silly, straying sheep gets safely home?”

Does it depend on the sheep at all when once he is securely placed on those powerful shoulders, “which urild the governMent of worlds?” The Shepherd is responsible now, and He is all-powerful and all-loving. No fear of His footsteps slipping, or His strength failing, until His sheep is placed safely in the home which He has prepared for it.

“Now unto Him that is able to keep you front falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.” Jude 24,25.

ML 04/29/1945

At the Crossroad

“Knock, knock.”

Let’s open the door and see who’s there.

“How do you do,” says a-friendly looking, stranger, who takes his hat off, and adds rather abruptly,

“Say, I’m lost.”

Way out in the rolling hills of the wheat country, about ten miles from town at a crossroad; —it isn’t surpring that we have many travelers stop to inquire the way, in spite of the signposts here and there. But this was the first person that came out honestly and frankly with the admission that he was lost; though the majority of all inquirers are in exactly the same fix, and prove so by pointing west and at the same time saying “North” and keeping a very straight face all the while.

We are all travelers, toward our destiny, Are you sure you are on the road to the right destination?

“Straight is the gate and narrow is the way, and few there be that find it.” Matthew 4:14.

How is it, then, that most everybody with the most vague and flimsy ideas, will assure themselves and others, that “in the end everything will turn out all right?”

“Are you saved?” a man was asked.

“No.”

Well, are you lost?” another questioned,

“No.”

Finally, Mr. Borland from behind, leaned forward and quietly asked,

“Where is a man, when he does not know where he is?”

“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way, and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:6.

All right now, you have arrived at a most vital crossroad in your life,

“The Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10.

What then does God’s sign post say?

“I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, no man cometh unto the Father but by Me.” John 14:6.

Will you not say in your heart,

“Jesus bore the punishment for my sins on the cross, and I now accept the way He has opened to heaven for me?”

ML 04/29/1945

Little Elsie

A little girl named Elsie,

Of four or five years old

(Whose parents were in heaven

And safe in Jesus’ fold),

Was taught in early childhood

To love His precious name;

And in His Word believing,

A Christian thus became.

Now, Elsie had a brother,

And Jesus was his joy,

She also had another—

A wild and wayward boy.

And by his naughty manners,

His sister’s heart he grieved,

She wished he loved the Saviour,

And on His name believed.

One day her elder brother

Met Elsie on the stairs,

Hcr face seemed full of sorrow,

Her mind seemed full of cares,

“What ails my little Elsie?

And what has made her cry?”

But Elsie seemed unwilling

To tell the reason why.

Elsie seemed unwilling

To tell the reason why.

He lovingly embraced her

And asked her yet again—

“What is the little trouble

Which gives my sister pain?”

At length she gently whispered,

While looking on the floor,

“I’se just been asking Jesus—”

And then she said no more!

Her brother seemed astonished,

But joy was in his face,

To find his little sister

Had sought the throne of grace.

Then Elsie, gaining courage,

Her secret told to him

“I’se just been asking Iesus

To save dear brother Jim!”

“Pray on, my little sister,”

Her brother then replied,

“And always go to Jesus,

And in His love confide:

For He is ever faithful

To those who trust in Him;

And may our gracious Saviour

Soon save dear brother Jim.

“For even naughty children,

Are objects of His care;

No doubt that He will answer

My little sister’s prayer.

He bids us not be weary,

But always watch and pray.

And from a child’s petition

He will not turn away.

And. though He is in glory,

And angels worship Him,

He hears the prayer of Elsie,

To save dear brother Jim.”

“This is the confidence that, we have in Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us: And if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions we desired of Him.” 1 John 5:14,15.

ML 04/29/1945

A Glimpse of Glory

Luke 9:23-36

The Lord Jesus knew that He would not be accepted as the promised Messiah, or King of Israel, and that He would suffer death. He knew His disciples would suffer for His sake, but as a comfort to them, He spoke of that time of glory yet certain to come. He said some of them should see that glory before their death.

Not long after that He took three of the disciples with Him up on a, mountain away from all others. While Jesus prayed the disciples fell asleep; when they awoke they saw the appearance of Jesus was changed, and His garments were white and shining, and glory was about Him.

Two persons were talking with Him. They were Moses and Elias, (Elijah), who had taught God’s words to Israel long, long before. They had believed God would send One to rule on earth, but that was not what they talked of. Instead, we read, they talked with the Lord Jesus of His “decease”, which means His death.

The disciples seem to have known who Moses and Elijah were, though their appearance is not described for us. Peter felt such honor was due these great prophets that he spoke to the Lord Jesus that three dwellings should be made there on the mountain, one for Jesus, one for Moses, and one for Elijah. At that instant a cloud came over them, and a Voice spoke to them from the cloud, saying,

“This is My beloved Son, hear Him.”

The Voice from Heaven and the brightness, made the disciples fear, but they learned by those words that Jesus, the holy Son of God, was far greater than the most useful prophets, and tb way to honor Him was not by a moment, or a high place, on earth, but by listening to His words. They were to “hear Him,” believe Him.

The glory of Jesus had not been shown before, and He had lived among them as a humble man, so this event is called His transfiguration, which means change of form or appearance. But He did not then stay in that form of glory, but came down the mountain with the disciples to continue His work for all. When Peter later wrote of this time of glory, he said,

“We were eyewitnesses of His majesty,” 2 Pet. 1:16-18.

And it is wonderful to read that the One Who lived so humbly here will appear at last with the glory due Him. But only those who accept Him as the sacrifice for their sins, can rejoice in His glory.

“Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, ... to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever.” Revelation 1:5,6.

ML 04/29/1945

Answers to Bible Questions for February

“The Children’s Class”

1.“For he hath,” etc. 2 Cor. 5:21

2.“Providing for,” etc. 8:21

3.“The God,” etc. 11:31

4.“Blessed be,” etc. 1:3

5.“Nevertheless,” etc. 7:6

6.“For our,” etc. 4:17

7.“The serpent.” 11:3

Bible Questions for May

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Philippians and Colossians

1. Write in full the verse with the words, “Peace through the blood.”

2.Write in full the verse with the words, “The wrath of God cometh.”

3.Write in full the verse with the words, “At the name of Jesus.”

4.Write in full the verse with the words, “To me to live is Christ.”

5.Write in full the verse with the words, “Let your requests be made.”

6.Write in full the verse with the words, “Seasoned with salt.”

7.For whom did the apostle suffer the loss of all things?

Answers to Bible Questions for February

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.The devil. 2 Corinthians 6:15.

2.Another name for Greece. 2 Corinthians 9:2.

3.Messenger of Paul. 2 Corinthians 12:18.

4.King in Damascus. 2 Corinthians 11:32.

5.Moses was the author of the first five books of the Bible. 2 Corinthians 3:15.

6.Paul’s associate in the salutation of this second letter to the Corinthians, 2 Corinthians 1:1.

7.Father of the nation of Israel. 2 Corinthians 11:22.

Bible Questions for May

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in Philippians and Colossians

1. Who were the Pharasees? (consult dictiory).

2.Who were Euodias and Syntyche?

3.Who was Luke?

4.Who was Epaphras?

5.Who was Epaphroditus?

6.Where is Macedonia? (use map).

7.Who was Onesimus?

ML 05/06/1945

Saved on the Spot

On my way home the other night, a Christian woman stopped me and begged me to go and visit a friend of hers who was dying of consumption. So the next day, on my way to the office, I turned aside to see her.

“Well, Mr. S., I am glad to see you, I have been waiting for you all day, and I have been wondering every moment if you would come, and whenever there was a knock I thought it was you,” were the first words of greeting. I immediately took the chair set for me by the head of the sofa.

“And why have you sent for me?” I said.

“I want to know how my soul is to be saved,” was her deeply earnest answer, with her eyes riveted on me.

“‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved’ is God’s word—can you trust it?”

“I wish I could!” was her reply.

“If you were drowning in a river,” I said, “and a man was on the bank, and threw you a rope, what would you do?”

“I should seize it,” she said.

“Well, you are drowning; God has seen your lost state, and has given Christ to save you, and now He is waiting for you to accept Him as your Saviour.”

“I wish, I wish, I could,” she said.

“Well,” I said, “if you owed a month’s rent, and I were here this afternoon with the money in my hand ordering it to you, would you lie there, and keep saying, ‘I wish I could take it! I wish I could take it!’ “

“No, I should take it at once.”

“Well, do so with Christ, and you will then have the joy of His salvion.”

She paused, and replied in deep earnestness,

“I will accept Christ.”

“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

“How shall we escape, if we neect so great salvation.” Hebrews 2:3.

ML 05/26/1945

Do You Know the Lord?

Do you know the Lord Jesus as your own Saviour?”

I asked this question of a woman, who had passed by some years the “seventy” appointed to man, and whose snowy hair showed that the winter of life had settled upon her. Her reply was— “I trust Him night and day. I’ve no one else to trust.”

No one else! Who else is needed? Who so worthy of our trust as the blessed Son of God? and who so faithful to the confidence placed in Him? What saith the Scripture?

“Blessed (or, Happy) are all they that put their trust in Him.” Psalms 2:12.

“Whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.” Proverbs 16:20.

ML 05/06/1945

God Holds Our Hand

A little two-year-old girl went with her daddy to call on her grandmother, who was leaving that day on a trip. After telling her grandmother goodbye, they started to leave, the father holding the little girl by the hand. As they were going down the steps, the little girl stumbled, and would have fallen, but her father, who held her hand firmly, supported her, and kept her from going down.

The dear grandmother, who had a knack of bringing spiritual lessons out of little everyday incidents, and whose joy it was to speak for her Lord, immediately saw the lesson in this little incident, and said,

“Now that is just what the Lord does for us. We may miss our step, but God holds our hand, and He will keep us from falling.”

“I the Lord have called thee in righousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee.” Isaiah 42:6.

“I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.” Isaiah 41:10,13.

“Hold Thou me up, and I shall be safe.” Psalms 119:117.

ML 05/06/1945

Wonderful Works of God

All things bright and beautiful.

All creatures great and small;

All things wise and wonderful,

The Lord hath made them all.

Each little flower that opens,

Each little bird that sings;

He made their glowing colors,

He made their tiny wings.

The purple-headed mountain,

The rivers running by,

The sunset, and the morning,

That brightens up the sky.

The cold wind in the winter,

The pleasant summer sun;

The ripe fruits in the garden,

He made them every one.

The tall trees in the green wood,

The meadows where we play;

The rushes by the water,

We gather every day.

He gives us eyes to see them,

And lips that we might tell,

How great is God Almighty

Who has made all things well.

“O LORD OUR LORD, HOW EXCELLENT IS THY NAME IN ALL THE EARTH! Psalms 8:9.

ML 05/06/1945

Children Who Saw Jesus

Luke 9:37-62

When the Lord Jesus returned to the people after His time of glory on the mountain, the first one He is told of helping was a child. It was a boy in dreadful distress, worse than any we have known. The father grieved to see his boy suffer, and had brought him to the disciples, but they could not help him.

When the man saw Jesus, he begged. Him to help; Jesus said, “Bring thy son hither.” And at the word of Jesus, the boy was made well. The father could take him home, which must have been a happy time for that family.

Many people of that land had done the ways of Satan, who has always been a cruel master, and even caused children to suffer, and only the power of Jesus could change. There is to be a time when He will show His power over all sin and suffering (see Romans 8:22,23.)

Another child is told of here, not a sick child, but a little one, perhaps plang near where Jesus was. He took it and set it by Him, and said to the disciples,

“Whosoever shall receive this child in My Name receiveth Me;... for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great.”

The little child was not great or important, but Jesus loved it; and He wanted the disciples to be humble as a little child, and do for even the weakest ones for His sake; and not to think of their own honor or high positions, as He knew they were thinking.

How happy for that child to stand beside the Lord Jesus, and to know that He cared for it! Children, now, do not see the Lord on earth, but He loves all, and calls them to Him by His words, “Come unto Me”, so they can love Him. One of the disciples afterward wrote to those who did not see Jesus when He was on earth, and said,

“Whom having not seen, ye love.” 1 Peter 1:8.

The disciples learned to be very humble, and gave their lives for the Lord Jesus, without high positions on earth.

There was one man who asked to follow Jesus, whom Jesus told that He had no home. It is not wirtten if the man followed anyway, but Jesus’ words were:

“Foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man hath not where to lay His head.”

A fox is a small animal and we might say of no use, except for its fur, but it has the instinct to dig a hole for itself; and the birds can all make nests. Yet the Lord Jesus, Who was Creator of all things, had no home on earth.

To have a home means to settle, or rest, and the Lord could not do that because of sin everywhere. He gave the people the great privilege that He would stay with them. In one village the people did not want Jesus to lodge there even for one night, and the disciples asked if they should not be destroyed, but Jesus answered,

“The Son of Man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.” Luke 9:56.

ML 05/06/1945

The Serpent and the Tiger

I have been looking for some time at the picture, but I cannot see that there is much hope for the poor tiger. He may open his mouth, and look very angry at the huge serpent, who has wound around the tiger his beautiful but deathly coil; but he cannot get away, and will be crushed to death before he has the chance to make any resistance. You see the serpent has a small, smooth head, which he could slip under the tiger when it was asleep, and before the poor victim would be aware of it, he would have twined his powerful body around him.

There is an enemy of ours, dear children, called “the god of this world” (Cor. 4:4), who keeps himself out of sight, but who draws people, old and young, farther and farther from God, until they find themselves cast forever into the place prepared for the devil and his angels (Matt. 25:41).

But many have been most thankful to learn the power of Christ, “stronger than he,” and they have put themselves into His mighty hand, that He may keep them from “all the power of the enemy.”

“TRUST YE IN THE LORD FOREVER: FOR IN THE LORD JEHOVAH IS EVERLASTING STRENGTH.” Isaiah 26:4.

ML 05/13/1945

The Little Girl's Answer

One day a little girl sat reading outside a cottage door. By and by a tourist came along, and asked her if she would give him some water to drink.

“O! yes, sir,” said the child; “if you will come in, mother will give you some milk and water.”

Thus welcomed, the man, who was very thirsty and tired, entered the cottage where he was kindly received by the little girl’s mother, from whose hands he obtained the refreshing draft of which he felt the need.

Meanwhile the child sat down again, and went on with her reading.

After taking a short rest, the traveler rose to go, but stopped to say a few words to the little girl before passing on his way.

“Are you getting your lesson?” he inquired.

“No, sir; I am reading the Bible.” “But you are getting your lesson out of the Bible?”

“O! no, sir; it is no task to me to read the Bible. I love the Bible.”

“And why do you love the Bible?” asked the traveler.

This question seemed greatly to surise the little girl; and looking up earnestly into the questioner’s face, she meekly answered,

“I thought everybody loved the Bible.”

This simple yet beautiful answer, coming from one so young, set the stranger to thinking. He well knew that he did not love the Bible, and he felt rebuked.

From that day he carefully read the Book he had always neglected and despised. The result proved, it was God who had led him near the home of that dear young believer, and that she was the Lord’s messenger to his needy soul; for in reading the Word of God, which she loved so much, he soon learned he was a lost sinner, for whom there was no escape from eternal judgment but by the blood of Christ. Believing this, through the Word of God, which liveth and abideth forever, he received the gift of eternal life, as well as full and free forgiveness of his sins through faith in the Saviour’s Name.

“Redeemed... with the precious blood of Christ.” 1 Peter 1:17,18.

ML 05/13/1945

The Bible First, Papa

A famous machinist was seated by his fireside. Near him, playing, on the floor, was his only child; a fine little boy of rare intelligence and gentleness. It was early the day’s work had not yet begun; and the father took up the daily paper to read. The child, climbing on his knee, and taking hold of the paper, exclaimed,

“No, no papa! the Bible first, the Bible first, papa!” — a recollection of his departed mother’s request. It was a fresh confirmation of the words, “Out of the mouth of babes... hast Thou ordained strength.” Psalms 8:2.

The child’s hand was stronger than a man’s. The child’s words were—under God—the turning point (it is believed) of the father’s life. He there and then resolved that, by divine help, the Bible should be “first,” before any business of the day.

In the crush and throng and engrosent of a daily-increasing, and ulmitately enormous business, the father went forth to his daily work with recoition of a higher Master.

“The Bible first, papa!” was ever ringing in his ears. It became his watchword.

ML 05/13/1945

Simple Thanks

One day little Dora was walking out with her aunt. The sun had not been visable all the morning, when suddenly a ray of brightness darted full in their faces, and little Dora exclaimed,

“O auntie, how beautiful! I do like the sun!”

“Does my darling know who made the sun to shine?” asked the aunt, with a smile.

“Yes,” replied the child, pointing upwards; “It was the good God in heaven.” And the little girl kissed her hand up to the sky three times; then turned to her aunt, and said,

“Auntie, I have sent three kisses to the Lord, and He will be sure to have them, because the angels will carry them to Him. Perhaps He will send me some back when I’m asleep.”

Auntie looked fondly at the little prattler as she asked,

“Why did you send the kisses, Dora?”

“To thank Him for sending His sun out,” replied the child. And the aunt thought,

“This little child is thanking God for one of His most common mercies; yet not only common but special mercies have often been unacknowledged by me!”

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” Psalms 103:2.

ML 05/13/1945

Little Johnnie

Little Johnnie was quite sick and his mother and the doctor decided he need some medicine but he does not like the remedy, so he fights against it, but he really needs it.

This is just the way a great many people do about salvation. They do not want it, and they fight against it, and want to blame God for having a hell for them, when there is not the first bit of reason they should go there, for God has provided the remedy.

The Lord Jesus Christ is God’s beloved Son, the dearest object of God’s heart; and God, in His love for lost men, women and children, gave that dear Son of His to die for sin-sick sinners, so that they need not go to hell. Christ, therefore, is the remedy God has provided. All ought to be very thankful for God’s Son, and accept Him as the only remedy—the only Saviour.

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save. sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.

If any person is lost, and thus goes to hell, it will be his own fault.

How is it with you, dear children? Have you accepted Him, or are you rejecting Him? If you have not aepted Him yet, do so now.

“Behold, now is the accepted time: behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

ML 05/13/1945

Cities Which Refused Jesus

Luke 10:1-22

People used to walk long distances, lodging nights on the way. When Jesus was to make His last journey from Galilee to Jerusalem, He sent men ahead to tell the people on the way that He would soon come to them.

This was to be done promptly, so they were not to stop to “Salute”, or talk to friends by the way; they were not to carry supplies, because the people should receive them as God’s messengers, and they were to do the people great good, for the Lord gave them power to cure the sick and to cast out evil spirits.

Jesus knew all would not welcome them, and He told of cities which had already refused Him as Messiah. He spoke of Capernaum, where He had done the greatest miracles, cured the lepers, the sick, the lame and blind and raised the dead: He said the people had been “exalted to heaven”, in their pride, yet the city would be “thrust” from its high honor, because the people did not believe Him.

Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum were later destroyed by armies which came through the land.

Perhaps if we had lived in those cities we would not have found the people more wicked than in cities now; the great sin was they did not want Jesus to be their Messiah or King.

Yet the Lord would have every one told of Him: He likened the people to a harvest field, needing workers, saying,

“The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He send forth laborers into His harvest.”

It is not easy to work the long hours in a harvest field, cutting or carrying grain, and the Lord knew it would not be easy to go to people with His words, for many would not believe, even though they were words of blessing.

All the world is now as a “harvest field” for men to labor to tell people of the Lord Jesus; not now as King, but as their Saviour. It is not easy, for there is still unbelief, but we can pray God to send the workers.

When the men whom Jesus had sent, returned, they were very happy because they had cast out wicked spirits by His name. But Jesus said not to rejoice for that, but “rather rejoice, bause your names are written in Heaven.”

What do you think that meant? Names are written that there be no mistake; so we know the Lord meant the men could be certain there was a place for them in Heaven. He did not say, would be written when they died, but He said, “are written.”

Those men believed in the Lord Jesus; can the same promise be for those now who believe Him? Yes, for He said,

“My sheep hear My voice (believe Him), and I give unto them eternal life”. John 10:27,28.

“The Lord knoweth them that are His.” 2 Timothy 2:19.

ML 05/13/1945

Watchful Mac

Mac is a lovely dog. He lives with his young master, Clarence, on a farm in Ontario. One day Clarence went to an all day meeting. Mac thought that Clarence was gone a long, long time, but he was sure that Clarence would come back home. While Clarence was gone, Mac had done his duties: he brought in the cows, kept the chickens in the yard, and watched the house. But all the time Mac was wishing that Clarence would come. Then he went out and looked up the road as he thought Clarence would be coming soon. He stood quietly and watched carefully, and soon there was a Cor up the road. Was it Clarence’s ear? Yes, indeed it was. When Mac was sure, he wagged his tail and barked heartily to welcome Clarence back home again.

The one who believes in the Lord Jesus Christ as his own personal Saviour should be watchful like Mac. Mac watched for his master to come, and the one who is saved should be quietly and carefully watching for the cong of the Lord Jesus Christ. Let us go on quietly and, as Mac wagged his tail when Clarence came, so we shall rejoice at the coming of our Lord.

We are told in the Word that the Thessalonian saints.

“TURNED TO GOD FROM IDOLS TO SERVE THE LIVING AND TRUE GOD; AND TO WAIT FOR HIS SON FROM HEAVEN?” 1 Thessalonians 1:9,10.

He tells us, also, to “Occupy till I come.” Luke 19:13.

We, too, like Mac, have our neeul duties to perform, doing all as to the Lord, but ever longing for and watching for Him to come—waiting AND watching.

“Blessed are those... whom the Lord, when He cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that He shall gird Himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.” Luke 12:37.

“Surely, I come quickly.” Revelation 22:20.

ML 05/20/1945

A Warm Companion

I was in a cold and backslidden state of soul. In fact, the only desire I had was to get on in the world and make money. When I was a stranger among strangers, I would very soon have drifted along with the world. In my new situation, my fellow-worker, a young lad of fifteen, was a warm Christian, and before I was in his company an hour, I felt the power of his godly, honest life.

He asked me if I was saved and when he found out that I was, he soon let it be known throughout the warehouse. So that I found myself a marked man the first day. When the evening came, he took me with him to his home and after spending an hour or two happily, we knelt down together. He prayed for me so earnestly, and asked God to ‘help me to take a decided stand for the Lord.’ My soul has been restored to the Lord, and I am very happy. I thank God for my warm companion.”

Dear young saints, has your warm and bright testimony been the means of bringing some backslider back to the Lord, or does your worldly walk and talk drag others down?

“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 he saved.” Romans 10:9.

ML 05/20/1945

Fear Not, nor Be Faint Hearted

A Sunday school teacher was telling a friend that he was afraid he would have to discontinue the school, as he had seen no fruit whatsoever of his labors.

At that moment a little boy came in and asked him if he would come and see his brother, who was very ill. He went with him into one of the lowest streets of the city, and on entering the room was struck with the utter misery of it. The sufferer lay on a mere heap of rags in a corner. The teacher said, “My poor boy, what can I do for you? Can I get you a doctor?”

“O no, sir,” said the boy.

“Shall I find you a nurse, and have you removed to a nice bed?”

“O, no sir, not that; but tell me, tell me, did you say that Jesus died for everybody?”

“Yes, I did.”

“And that He will receive any one who comes to Him?”

“Yes, indeed I did, dear boy.”

“Well, then, I know that He has reived me,” he replied, and in a few moments his soul had entered into rest.

“In due season we shall reap if we faint not.” Galatians 6:6.

ML 05/20/1945

Charlie's Text

I knew a dear little boy called Charlie. He had an aunt with whom he lived who loved Jesus. The greatest wish in her heart, and the prayer she prayed oftener than any, was that little Charlie might have Jesus for his Saviour too.

Charlie liked his aunt to tell him stories out of the Bible, but he never said much about himself to her. He was very shy, like many other children, and he felt as if such things were too deep down in his heart ever to get up to his lips.

So Charlie kept secret for a very long time what it would have made his dear aunt more happy than anything else to know. He had felt very sorry for his sins and had taken them all to Jesus, and Jesus had washed them away in His blood. He had filled Charlie’s heart with love to Him.

At last the time came for Charlie to go to school. The night before he was to start, his aunt went up to his bedroom to kiss him, and say “good night.” Charlie’s was such a pretty little bedroom. It had a pink bed in it, and there were rosebuds all over the wall. Lots of pretty pictures hung everywhere, and beautifully illuminated texts. Over his bed hung the present his aunt gave him on his birthday—a beautiful scroll, with the words painted on it,

“My Father, Thou art the guide of my youth.”

As she said “good-night,” his aunt whispered, “I wish I knew that my dear little Charlie was taking Jesus to school with him! Is my little boy afraid to tell auntie about himself?”

Charlie’s face grew rosy with shyness, and he sat up in bed, and put his finger on the text over his bed, “That’s my text, auntie,” he said.

And auntie knew what he meant, and her heart was so glad and overflowing with thankfulness to God!

There are many of my young friends as shy as Charlie who love Jesus in secret. They are like Nicodemus, and come to Him in the dark. I was just as shy myself when I was a little girl, so I know all about it. But there is a remedy for shyness—tell Jesus about it and ask Him for courage! We miss a great deal of happiness and help from other people who have got further on the way to heaven than we have, by being too shy to speak about those things. And we don’t get on so fast by ourselves. God means Christians to help one another. If nobody knows that you are a Christian, you won’t be able to help anyone! Now, try my plan —tell Jesus. Tell Him every time you feel shy, and He will give you courage.

I tell it all to Jesus,—

The trouble and the pain;

And, O, He sends in answer,

Such blessed peace again!

I tell my wants to Jesus,—

And O, He gives to me,

The very things I needed,

In measure full and free!

I tell my joys to Jesus,

And thank Him for them too;

And He rejoices with me,

As no one else could do!

I soon shall go to Jesus,

My gracious, heavenly Friend!

And up in heaven I’ll praise Him,

With songs that never end!

ML 05/20/1945

The Lawyer's Question

Luke 10:23-37

Many years before the Lord Jesus came to earth, God gave laws to Moses to write in the scriptures, for the people of Israel to know the right ways to live on earth. Men who taught those laws were called lawyers.

But many of those men did not study the scriptures, or believe God’s words, and when Jesus came, they did not believe Him, although they called Him Master, or Teacher, and tried to pule Him with hard questions. One said to Him,

“Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”

To “inherit” is to have some claim upon; eternal life is life which has no end, and God gives it, but none earn it. Jesus knew this lawyer did not bieve God’s words, but He wanted him to think of them, and asked what he read in the law.

The man answered with words which Moses repeated to Israel before they went into their land:

“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.” (See Deuteronomy 6:5; Leviticus 19:18.) God had said,

“Which if a man do, he shall live in them.” Leviticus 18:5.

The people of Israel did not keep it, for they are all dead, and thus proved they did not keep the law.

No one has ever kept the law, except the Lord Jesus Christ, and thus He glorified God, and He has redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us.

No one can inherit eternal life, all have sinned, and deserve God’s judgment.

No one can work for eternal life, for it is God’s gift to all who will accept the Lord Jesus as his or her Saviour.

“The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

Before God gave the law, He gave promise of One to come to bless, He had also shown them of sacrifice, and with the law He gave many words of sacrifice for sins, which all taught of One to take their place. Those who had believed God’s words, believed Jesus.

God gave the just and good laws to Israel so the people would see that they did not live pleasing to Him, and would want One to come to save them. If we have a wooden rule and break it, we know how much short it is by holding it beside a perfect rule.

So if the people compared what they did, by God’s perfect laws, they could realize how wrong they were. The law is called “a schoolmaster... up to Christ.” (See Galatians 3:19-26; Rom. 3:20).

If that lawyer had been honest he would have said to Jesus,

“O Master, I have not kept God’s laws, I am a sinful man.”

Then the Lord Jesus could have shown him, as He did others, that all who believed Him were given eternal life (John 3:15).

Instead, this lawyer tried to “justify”, or excuse, himself, as though God had not made His laws plain; he asked, “Who is my neighbor?”

To answer that question, Jesus told him a very interesting story, which we will read another time.

ML 05/20/1945

Just a Peep

Ah! they have caught him, just taking a peep while playing at blind man’s buff. But this is not fair, it is cheating they say, because he is uncovering his eyes so as to see where they are, while he pretends to have his eyes covered all the time. He is trying to deceive them. Some may think this does not matter much, because it is only at play; but acting a lie is as bad as telling a lie, and if it is allowed in play, it will soon be thought nothing of in connection with what is not play.

Well, God is so thoroughly just and right in everything, that He cannot allow even that sin to go unpunished; so what will we do, dear children? Must we bear the punishment ourselves? No, we need not, for the word about the Lord Jesus is,

“HE WAS WOUNDED FOR OUR TRANSGRESSIONS, HE WAS BRUISED FOR OUR INIQUITIES: THE CHAISEMENT OF OUR PEACE WAS UPON HIM; AND WITH HIS STRIPES WE ARE HEALED.” Isaiah 53:5.

“God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

O, what a wonderful thing this is, and how thankful we, who believe, should be to Him who has borne the punishment from God for our sins, so that we should never have to bear it. He said on the cross, “It is finished.” Then instead of perishing, we receive “everlasting life.”

If you believe in Jesus as your own Saviour, may you not only thank Him for what He has done for you, but may you seek in all your ways to please Him.

ML 05/27/1945

Growing Like Him

It is a common saying that “we become like those whose company we keep.” This is true in the highest sense of those who “keep company” with the Lord Jesus. They become like Him: they reflect His character. As they walk in His company, day by day, “with open face beholding His glory,” they “are changed into the same image” (2 Cor. 3:18). As they listen to His voice, and follow in His steps, others take knowledge of them that they have “been with Jesus.”

Thus it was with Moses, after he had been forty days and forty nights on the mount, alone with God. He came down among the people, his face shing with the glory of God. Others saw it, and knew where he had been. So it is with some now. When you meet them, there is something so Christ-like about them. Their words, though few, are full of blessing; their very spirits savor of the presence of Jesus. We know easily where they dwell, and whose company they keep.

Like ships bearing spices from afar, their savor points them out; they do not need to advertise themselves. The same principle holds good of our companions. We become like them.

What a blessing many a young believer has found in a truly godly companion, one who has lived near to God, and whose aim in life was to lead others into “the secret place.” Seek such a companion, dear young believer.

But there is another side to this. A carnal worldly believer can drag a spiritual one down to his own level, if he keeps company with him, and how often this is done. How many once-bright and happy saints have been led into backsliding through keeping company with foolish talkers, and light, flippant professors?

Shun the company of such, and seek the companionship of Christ.

“Be ye not unequally yoked togetr with unbelievers.” 2 Corinthians 6:14.

“Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven.” But whosoever shall deny Me bore men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 10:32,33.

ML 05/27/1945

"Don't You Love Him Back?"

Barbara, who was one of the lambs of the Good Shepherd, was a strong, high-spirited little child. She was one day lying on the floor busily engaged in playing with and arranging her toys, of which she was very fond, when suddenly a thoughtful expression passed over her face, and stopping short in the midst of an animated conversation with her doll, she rushed up to her mother, and said,

“Mother, tell me, is it really true that God loves little me; does He really love little Barbara?”

“Yes, my child,” said her mother. “God really loves you, little Barbara, and loved you so much that He sent His Son to die for you. He loved you, but He did not love your sins, which made you black all over in His sight, and it was because He loved you so much that He sent His only Son, Jesus, to suffer for you an the cross, that being washed in His Blood you might be made perfectly clean and white, and thus fit to dwell with Him in glory.

He loves you so much that He wanted to have you with Him, and He knew that nothing less than the precious Blood of Jesus could make you clean and white, and so God sent His Son to bleed and die on the bitter cross, that all who believe in Him might not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16). And you know,

‘We love Him, because He first loved us.’” Looking in mother’s face, Barbara said,

“Does Jesus love me more—better than you do, mother?”

“Yes, my child, far better. I have never died for you; the Lord Jesus has.”

“And does Jesus love me now?”

“Yes, my child. He loves you now, this moment, although He is in the glory.”

“Then I love Him! Then I love Him! Then I do love Him!”

“We love Him, because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19.

Thus was the little girl led to rejoice in Christ’s love to her. From that day forward Barbara was a living testimony that she was the Lord’s. All around her noticed a marked change in her little ways. She would also always try and tell others how Jesus loved them, in her own childish way, with a beaming smile on her face, and if they did not heed it, or seemed touched with such divine love, she would look up, and say in the saddest tone,

“But don’t you love Him back again? I do.”

If little children knew the love

Which dwells in Jesus’ breast,

How would they come to Him by faith,

All anxious to be blest!

“Come unto Me,” He sweetly cries;

“Come, little children, come!

Come to My open arms and heart,

Come, to My happy Home!”

Thus Jesus speaks; who makes reply,

“O Lord, I come to Thee;

Thy precious love has won my heart.

Thine henceforth will I be.”

O, precious choice! If such be thine,

Then thou indeed art blest;

Peace thy companion here shall be,

There, everlasting rest!

ML 05/27/1945

God's Gift

O! how God delights in giving,

Little, helpless one, to thee!

Every moment that you’re living,

Some kind gift from Him you see.

All the care, so fond, so tender;

All the love which round you flows;

He makes loving hearts to render—

For your infant need, He knows.

But no mother’s fond caresses,

Of His mighty love can tell;

No one God’s own heart expresses

But His Son He loves so well;

He Who left His home of Glory,

Where His Father’s heart He knew,

Came down here to tell the story

Of His Father’s love to you.

All that God loved best He gave you—

Jesus, all He had, gave too;

Laid His birthright down to save you,

Now that birthright shares with you.

For He’s sitting in the glory,

All His Father’s grace to give,

If you will believe the story,

That He died that you might live.

Here, by living and by dying,

Jesus told God’s love, and died,

Wicked men His love denying,

Would not listen—turned aside.

They, like Esau—O sad story!

Threw God’s precious gift away;

That same Jesus, now in Glory,

Is God’s gift to you this day.

“The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Rons 6:23.

“Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.” 2 Corinthians 9:15.

ML 05/27/1945

The Kind Stranger

Luke 10:25-37

This is the story which the Lord Jesus told the wise lawyer, who asked Him, “Who is my neighbor?” “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.

But a certain Samaritan, as he joeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

And on the morrow when he darted, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said, “Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.”

The men who did not help the poor man, were from his city, Jerusalem, but the man who helped him, was from another country, Samaria, and altogether a stranger to him. Jesus asked the lawyer which of the three men he thought was neighbor to the man who fell among the thieves.

“He that showed mercy on him,” the lawyer said. That was a right answer, and our neighbor, also, is whoever needs our help.

But the Lord seems to have been teaching something more than about his neighbor. You know the lawyer thought he kept the laws of God, but he had not; he had sinned, and really was helpless to do for God, as the poor hurt man by the road, who had gone away from the city of God, to go to Jericho, the city of the curse (Josh. 6:26).

The priest could not go to the man, because, if dead, the law forbade him to touch him; if the Levite touched what was unclean or dead, he was unfit for the work with the holy things of the temple (Lev. 21:1; Deut. 10:8; Num. 19:11).

But the Samaritan was not under the law, and he could go to the man, and was very sorry for him. The lawyer and all the people had left God’s way, and been robbed by sin; the law had no power to help them.

But there was One like the kind stranger, Who was very sorry for the people: that was Jesus, Who came “where they were”, showing love and kindness to all; doing even more than the good Samaritan, giving His own life to heal the wounds made by sin. Sin has robbed us all of strength to do for God; no priest or work we or others could do, could fit us for Heaven. How good of the Lord Jesus to come to do all for us! The hurt man would be eager to see the kind traveler when he returned, and how happy we will be to see the Lord when He comes again!

“When we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungoy.” Romans 5:6.

ML 05/27/1945

Answers to Bible Questions for March

“The Children’s Class”

1.“I am.” etc. Gal. 2:20

2.“Paul, an,” etc. 1:1

3.“For ye are,” etc. 3:26

4.“This I say,” etc. 5:16

5.“Wherefore thou,” etc. 4:7

6.“Be not.” etc. 6:7

7. “God.” 3:6

Bible Questions for June

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in 1 and 2 Thessalonians

1.Write in full the verse with the words, “Jesus died and rose again.”

2.Write in full the verse with the words, “In truth, the word of God.”

3.Write in full the verse with the words, “Your faith ciroweth exceedingly.”

4.Write in full the verse with the words, “Who believed not the truth.”

5.Write in full the verse with the words, “Be not weary in well doing.”

6.Write in full the verse with the words, “With all his saints.”

7.Write a verse containing only two words.

Answers to Bible Questions for March

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Believers among the Jews. Galatians 6:16.

2.The mountain where Moses received the law. Galatians 4:24.

3.A Gentile convert of Paul’s. Galatians 2:1-3.

4.Peter, a pillar of the church. Galatians 2:9.

5.In Syria, north of Palestine. Galatians 1:17,

6.The country lying east of Palestine. Galatians 1:17.

7.In Antioch. Galatians 2:11.

Bible Questions for June

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in 1 and 2 Thessalonians

1.Who was Silvanus?

2.Where is Athens? (use map in Bible).

3.Where is Philippi? (use map in Bible).

4.Who is “that Wicked”?

5.What is Achaia? (use map in Bible).

6.What is Judaea? (use map in Bible).

7.Who is Satan?

ML 06/03/1945

Jesus Loves the Children

Jesus loves the children dearly,

In His Word He tells them so;

Once He took them up and blessed them

Many, many years ago.

We are little lambs of Jesus’;

He, our Shepherd kind and dear,

Speaks, and though we do not hear Him,

In our hearts His voice we hear.

ML 06/03/1945

Philip

When Philip was a little boy, he went to a country school house to Sunday school. A man who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour, went to this little school house every Lord’s Day afternoon, and told the children who came, about Jesus. And Phillip was one of the chiren who was saved. He now believes on the Lord Jesus Christ Who died for him and rose again that Phillip might go to be with Him for eternity.

Now Phillip is a man, and he still goes to the school house on Lord’s Day afternoons, but now he tells the children about Jesus, just like the other man did when he was a child. He tells them that Jesus loves them, and wants them to love Him, too.

How many of you children go to Sunday school every week? Perhaps there is someone waiting to tell you about Jesus. It is nice to read your “Messages of Love” papers each week to learn more of the Lord Jesus Who loves you.

You have all heard of Timothy, the voting man of whom Paul spoke, and who became a preacher of the Word. Is it not lovely to know, too, that he heard the Word when he was a little boy, his grandmother, Lois, and mother, Eunice, both telling this dear child of the wonderful Saviour that each knew and loved and teaching him the holy scriptures.

Do you wish to be wise? Then listen, “The holy scriptures are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Tithy 3:15.

Do you wish to be rich? One of old said, “The law of Thy mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and sinner.” Psalms 119:72.

Children, seize every opportunity to hear the Word of God! To be under the sound of God’s blessed word, is the greatest blessing one can know in this life. Through this Word ALONE can we find life eternal, joy, peace, forgivess of sins, and all the boundless riches which are for you and me in Christ.

I beg of you to give earnest heed to these things NOW. Soon, soon, the Lord will come. If we have taken Him as our Saviour, we shall go to be with Him. If we have neglected to do this, then we shall be left for judgment. How solemn! Be wise therefore, in time.

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3:36.

ML 06/03/1945

The Sparrow's Song

I’m only a little sparrow,

A bird of low degree;

My life is of little value,

But there’s One who cares for me.

He gave me a coat of feathers—

It is very plain, I know;

With never a speck of crimson,

For it was not made for show.

But it keeps me warm in winter,

And it shields me from the rain;

If bordered with gold or purple,

Perhaps it would make me vain.

And now that the spring-time cometh,

I will build a little nest,

With many a chirp of pleasure,

In the spot I like the best.

I have neither barn nor store-house,

And I neither sow nor reap;

God gives me a sparrow’s portion,

But never a seed to keep.

If my meal is sometimes scanty,

Close picking makes it sweet;

I’ve always enough to feed me,

And life is more than meat.

I know there are many sparrows—

All over the world we’re found,

But the rather in heaven knoweth,

When one of us falls to the ground.

Though small, we’re never forgotten,

Though weak, we’re never afraid,

The Father in heaven keepeth

The life of the creatures He made.

I fly through the thickest forest,

I light on many a spray,

I have no chart, nor a compass,

But I never lose my way.

And I fold my wings at twilight,

Wherever I happen to be,

The Father in heaven watcheth,

And no harm can come to me.

I’m only a little sparrow,

A bird of low degree;

But I know my Father loves me,

Dost thou know His love for Thee?

“Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?” Luke 12:6.

“FEAR YE NOT THEREFORE; YE ARE OF MORE VALUE THAN MANY SPARROWS.” Luke 12:7.

ML 06/03/1945

Two Sisters

Luke 10:38-42

There was one village on the way to Jerusalem, where Jesus was made welcome, at least to one home, that was the home of two sisters, Martha and Mary. They had a brother named Lazarus, and Jesus may have been at their home before, on His way to the feasts.

When so many refused Him, it must have been a joy to Him that these welcomed Him. In those times guests sat or reclined on couches, and others might sit on low stools or on the floor near Mary, who, perhaps, was the younger sister, sat at Jesus’ feet so she could listen to all His words.

Martha was worried about serving the meal to this guest, and thought Mary should come to help her. No doubt she wanted to serve a nice meal, and it seemed most neccesary of all things to her; she did not consider how important to hear each word of the Lord Jesus, the most wonderful Teacher there could be. She went to Jesus and said,

“Lord, dost Thou not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.”

Jesus answered Martha kindly, but showed she had not chosen the most important thing as she thought. He said,

“Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: but one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”

What had Mary chosen? To listen to the words of Jesus, the Son of God. The meal served would soon be over, but the words Mary heard were for always. Perhaps Martha could have come and listened too, except she planned a great meal, for it says, she “was cumbered (burdened) about much serving,” and “careful and troubled about many things.”

If Martha had followed the example of the meals Jesus served, it would have been simple. He twice had served the people a meal of bread and fish, and after He was risen from the dead, He served another meal of bread and fish (John 21:9,13).

Martha seems to have learned from the Lord’s answer, because later it is written that she served Him and others, and no complaint, or “much serving” is written. (John 12:2). His answer so shows that He would rather wait for Himself to be served, than to have them miss His words.

When Mary listened so intently to Jesus, she learned what no one else did, not even the disciples; that He was to die as the sacrifice for her, and others, and because of that, she later brought the precious oil to anoint Him, which honored Him so greatly, He said it should always be remembered (John 12:3,7).

It is right to share the tasks of a home and to do for others, for His sake, but first to plan to learn more of the Lord Jesus. Even work for Him is not so needed as that. Do we not often, like Martha, miss listening to the Lord’s words, because of work we plan to do?

ML 06/03/1945

God Feedeth Them

Look at these five sweet little birds. How contented and happy they all look! They have no thought of care.

Who gives them their food? Who cares for them?

You will no doubt answer, “It is God who cares for the little birds,” and that is quite right.

Dear boys and girls, you are of more value than the birds, and God cares for you!

“YOUR FATHER KNOWETH WHAT THINGS YE HAVE NEED OF.” Matthew 6:8.

Read Matthew 6:25 to 34.

But God has shown greater love to you, He has given His own dear Son that you might have everlasting life, if you only believe on Him as the One who has suffered for your sins.

Have you thought of His love and His care? Do you trust Him?

How many of you can say, Jesus is mine?

ML 06/10/1945

I Know What It Cost

Two gentlemen were riding by a beautiful park. The one said to the other, “How much do you think this estate is worth?”

“I don’t know how much it is worth,” was the answer; “but I know what it cost the late owner of it.”

“How much?”

“His soul,” was the startling reply. “The owner of it died a wretched death, stating on his deathbed that all his misery was due to his love of money, which had often led him into fraud and sin.”

“What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” Mark 8:36.

ML 06/10/1945

Answers to Prayer

It gives all who love the Lord Jesus great delight to record how God answers prayer. I can recall one evening, some years ago at our weekly prayer meeting, prayer was made for a young woman who lay very sick, that God would come in and save her. We learned shortly afterwards that just as we had made this request she had trusted in the Lord Jesus for salvation, and soon after she went to be with the Lord.

Then a few weeks ago at the close of our Children’s Meeting, five dear girls waited behind, desirous to trust the Lord Jesus as their Saviour. I spoke simply to them of their need and God’s great salvation, and all professed faith in the Lord Jesus. Three are girls in my own class, and it gives great joy and encouragement to see these girls saved in their early days.

My further prayer now is, that they shall so live, that they may be able, even though quite young, to show that they are indeed saved, and may they shine for the Saviour in these dark days.

May we never forget that not only is the soul saved, but also the life, when they trust Jesus.

Thus may we take fresh courage and unceasingly bring our scholars and others before our Father, that it may please Him still further to add to the number of the saved.

“All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Matthew 21:22.

“Hitherto ye have asked nothing in My name; ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.” John 16:24.

ML 06/10/1945

"Do You Want to Be Saved?"

A boy had been troubled because of his sins, and he had tried to find peace, but somehow he did not find it.

“Tommy, did you ever hear how Jack was saved?”

“No, sir, how was it?”

Jack had a crippled foot, and he was sad that he would grow up that way, and he told me about it.

“I’ll tell you what you can do,” I said. “I have a friend who is a doctor. Put yourself in his hands.”

Jack went to the doctor and talked things over.

“If you’ll quit depending on that brace, and put yourself in my hands, I will cure you.”

Jack did that very thing. He took off his brace and put himself in the doctor’s hands. He did as the doctor said. He depended on him. The doctor fixed his bad foot. He gave him some special treatments. And he made good his promise.

“God makes you a promise just as that doctor did. He says, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”

“That means, put yourself in Jesus’ hands.” Tommy drew a long breath.

“Why, sir,” he said, “is it as simple as that? I can trust Him to save me right now.”

Tommy did just that. He put himself into the hands of Jesus. He depended on Jesus to save him. And he found the peace that passeth understanding—it is the peace of heart that Jesus Christ gives to all who really trust Him.

The Bible makes it very clear that one does not become a Christian when he reaches a certain age, nor because his father and mother are Christians; that one does not become a Christian because he goes to Sunday school and church, nor because he tries to be honest and truthful. He becomes a Christian only by believing on Jesus as his Saviour.

These three verses tell you how to be saved.

“God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3:36.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

ML 06/10/1945

Little Camine

The was a bright, happy wee lassie and for nearly two years, attended very regularly a school kept by a lady in the city of Constantine, Algeria. Her parents took no interest in teaching their little girl their own religion, nor did they hinder her from being told the sweet story of Jesus and His love. Camine was a very quick learner, and in addition to being able to read well, she learned a daily text, which she repeated to her teacher every day. She was also very fond of the hymns, many of which she could sing well. Her favorites were— “The great Physician now is near.”

“I have a Father in the promised land.”

Camine really believed that God was her Father, because she had trusted in Jesus as her Saviour, and had been saved,—was a child of God—as all who truly believe in Jesus are.

Camine was quite bright and happy then, but a short time after, she took diphtheria, and died. One day, in the hot month of June, a terrific thundetorm passed over the town, and when it had passed, the sound of loud wailing was heard coming from the house where Camine’s parents lived. It was the wail for the dead. But while her teacher was sad at losing her happy little scholar, she did not wail as one who had no hope of seeing her again, for she knew that she had gone to her “Father in the promised land,” and that one day she would meet her in the happy home above, where all God’s saved ones from every clime and country, gather—all washed from their sins in the blood of the Lamb. No doubt, little Camine will be there. Will you? If not, where?

“Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood... to Him be glory and domion forever and ever.” Revelation 1:5,6.

ML 06/10/1945

All Are Welcome

All ye weary, come to Jesus;

Still He calls, O, come away;

All are welcome to the Saviour,

Come to Him without delay.

Trust upon His sacred promise,

All who come to Him are blest;

He will save you, come to Jesus,

He alone can give you rest.

ML 06/10/1945

Prayer

Luke 11:1-14

The disciples wanted to honor God and to pray to Him in a right way, and asked the Lord Jesus to tell them how. He told them these words:

“Our Father Who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in Heaven, so in earth. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.”

Perhaps you have said these words many times without thinking of the meaning: that cannot honor God Jesus’ words taught them first that God is holy, His name is holy, and must not be said carelessly, but always with the most possible respect. But they were to pray to Him simply, asking Him as a loving Father, Who cared for them.

The disciples had been taught of the time of God’s rule or Kingdom, and then prayed for that time to come, when Christ will be honored and men will be obedient. But not long after these words were said, Jesus was refused as King, and died as men’s Saviour.

So now those who believe Him, pray most for others to believe in Him now, before that time when all that is wrong will be punished. The people then, like the disciples, will have great trials, and will pray earnestly, words like this prayer, as shown in the psalms and prophets.

But even now we are to trust God for our food and all we have, He can send storms, drouth, or blight, to spoil all. And we need also to forgive any who have done us wrong, for we have many wrongs to be forgiven by God.

Small boys and girls can thank God for His care, and learn to pray, but when older, to understand, it is not the repeating of words, or “saying prayers” that pleases God, but to tell Him what you feel in your heart.

Jesus said God will surely hear, and do for those who ask Him: He said, if a friend came in the night to ask for bread, because a traveler had come, even though a trouble, it would be given as needed. And God would not do less for those who ask Him in need.

Jesus reminded them that one of them would not give his child a stone if it asked for bread, so God would give good gifts. He told them of the Holy Spirit to be given those who believe God, and later He said the Spirit would teach them all things, and they should ask God the Father in Jesus’ Name (John 16:13,24).

So Jesus taught how simply but earstly those who believe His words, can pray, and that God will do for them. But they will not be praying just for what will please themselves, but for what will honor the Lord Jesus Who has done so much for them.

What are the promises of Luke 11:9,10?

ML 06/10/1945

The Singing of Birds

There are many of my little readers who are delighted by the singing of birds, even if it be but the chirp of the city sparrow.

I was once in a place where each morning there was such exquisite music of birds, as only you who live in the country can know.

God wants praise, not only from the birds, but from people, though how little is given to Him. It is only those who are washed from their sins in the blood of Christ, that can sing songs of praise to Him. This is one of the happy songs of praise:

“Unto Him who loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and hath made us kings and priests to God, even His Father; to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever.” Revelation 1:5,6.

There is also a New Song to be sung in heaven that never has been sung there before; even the angels listen to this song in adoration and wonder. And what is so wonderful about it, is that none but blood washed sinners can sing it:

“AND THEY SUNG A NEW SONG SAYING, THOU ART WORTHY.... FOR THOU WAST SLAIN, AND HAST REDEEMED US TO GOD BY THY BLOOD.” Revelation 5:9.

ML 06/17/1945

Blue Peter

Who was Blue Peter and how came he to have such a strange name? Well, let me tell you the story as it was told to me.

A harbor, as you know, is a place of safety for ships, where, though the sea may be very rough outside, they may drop their anchor inside and feel perfectly safe.

One day a visitor came into the harbor although not invited or desired, in fact, it was a sea monster called a shark. It was seen to swim about in the harbor, seeking what food it could find.

Having come once into the harbor and found no danger there, it came again and again, so that after a while the sailors got used to seeing it from time to time, and though they tried several times to catch and kill it, all their efforts were in vain; it always seemed to escape them, so they began to look upon the shark as an old friend, and gave it the name of Blue Peter.

But though they might let the shark live, and give it a friendly name, they could not alter its nature, for it is ever an enemy to us all. It is something like Satan, our great enemy, whose nature can never be changed.

One day a young man went for a swim in the harbor, and while there, the people on the shore suddenly caught sight of Blue Peter coming towards him. Of course, they shouted as loud as they could, to warn him of his daer, and when he caught sight of the shark, he was so frightened that he could only swim slowly, and if help had not come from another, he must have been killed.

Just like you and me, we have no power against Satan, and if the Lord Jesus had not died for us to put away our sins, we should have been in his power forever.

But there was a colored man looking on named Sambo, who worked for the young man’s father, and seeing the danger of his young master, was eager to do what he could to save him. He jumped into the water at the risk of his own life, and seizing the young man round the waist with one arm, he struck out for the shore with the other.

O, how eagerly the people looked on from the shore, for they saw that the shark was swimming faster than Sambo could, and it had almost reached him when Sambo made one final effort which landed them close to the shore. But, alas, the shark was close behind them, and before Sambo could get away, it opened his huge jaws and caught him by the leg.

The people on the shore caught hold of Sambo and pulled with all their might. At last the shark dived away into the water, but carried with him Sambo’s leg. Sambo saved his master, but lost his leg, while the Lord Jesus gave up His life to save thousands of boys and girls, men and women, from eternal misery.

Samba was taken to the hospital, and in time his leg healed up, but he ever Afterward had to go about with a wooden leg.

One day when Sambo was able, he started out in a boat armed with some special weapons to try and find his old enemy. He rowed about for a long time, but at last he caught sight of Blue Peter. He had a large piece of bait, which he threw to the shark, and tempted it to come near his boat, and an hour or so later Sambo returned to the shore dragging the shark behind him quite dead.

Satan thought when Jesus was crified that he had got the victory, but Jesus rose from the grave triumphant over Satan, having secured salvation for you and for me. Let us, then, put our trust in Him as our Saviour, and praise and thank Him for all His love.

“Thou art worthy,... for Thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by Thy blood.” Revelation 5:9.

ML 06/17/1945

Be Decided

There is a short rhyme which you can easily learn by heart.

BLACK for SIN — as black as Coal.

RED—Christ’s BLOOD, that makes us whole.

WHITE the ROBE — as white as Snow.

GOLD for GLORY—will you go?

Have you ever seen people wearing a ribbon or some other badge on their clothes? Well, it is to let everyone know that they are just according to their badge.

Now, just as they wear this badge to make it known to all, will you not, dear young Christian, carry the name of JESUS on your lips and in your ways, that every one may know you are for Him?

Some years ago, a boy named George jumped into the sea, and, at great risk of his own life, saved a little boy from drowning. Do you think that little boy is ashamed to own George? Not a bit. He is always glad to tell people who saved him and how he did it.

Then how much more ought it to be a pleasure to tell that Jesus even died on the cross to put away your sins; that He has saved you, you belong to Him, you are for Him, and He is your Lord.

But, dear reader, if you are not for Jesus, the Prince of Life, you are for Satan, the Prince of Darkness. Now be decided. Which are you for—Jesus or Satan?

“If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt bieve in thine heart that God raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9.

ML 06/17/1945

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 He’ll 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.

ML 06/17/1945

The Greatest One

Luke 11:29-54

You remember the story of Jonah, whose name in the New Testament is written Jonas. He was a prophet who lived long before the Lord Jesus was on earth, but the pele Jesus talked to knew how Jonah was sent by God to an eastern city to warn the people their city would be destroyed because of their awful sins.

The king and people of the city bieved the words of Jonah, and soowed greatly for their sins, so God did not then destroy their city.

Jesus told the people who stood about Him that they were not wise as those who heard Jonah: they were listening to a far greater Prophet than Jonah, yet they did not believe His words of judgment to come, and were not sorry for their sins.

Then Jesus spoke of King Solomon, who had lived in that land and was still highly honored by the people for his wisdom. Jesus reminded them of the queen who came a long, hard journey from the south to see Solomon because she had heard of his wisdom.

Yet, when the Son of God, by whom Solomon was given his wisdom, came to that same land, and they could hear His wonderful words so easily, many did not want to listen. It was because they were not sorry for their sins, as the people of the wicked city were.

The Lord Jesus was greater than any prophet or king, and the people would have believed Him if they had not let their hearts be hard from sins.

One man invited Jesus to a meal at his home, but he seemed one looking to find fault with Him. Jesus went to his home and sat down to the table without first washing His hands.

The man thought that was a great sin, for he and others were very careful about washing, and had many ways of just how it should be done. Jesus did not mean that it is wrong to wash soiled hands, but He knew how careful these men were of their laws of clean hands and dishes, while they were careless of the pride and sins in their hearts, which made them unclean for God. He took this way to show them their wrong. He said they “made clean the outside of the cup and platter,” but within was “wickedness.”

They made laws for the people, which they did not keep: they were proud of having a high seat in the synagogue, and to have the people greet or bow to them in the marketplace, yet they did not believe God’s words.

The laws to this nation were for all to give a portion of their crops or herds or wealth for the work of the temple and the men there. This nation was called a tithe. Jesus said these men were very careful to weigh or measure a tithe of such small things as mint, or other herbs they had, but did not consider the great things of God’s love or His judgment of sins (Lev. 27:30).

Jesus knew the men’s hearts and how wrong they were doing and spoke plainly to show them. There is a lesson for us also to think of no matter how well we wash our hands and faces, God sees into our hearts and knows if we believe His words.

ML 06/17/1945

Dead or Alive?

Most likely every one looked at the picture of the squirrel before beginning to read, but perhaps you had better look closely before deciding this question. It will take sharp eyes, but see if you can tell if its a picture of a real live squirrel, or just a toy one that you might buy at a toy shop.

All right, now, see if your answer and reasons are the same as these: It must have been a live squirrel, bause it looks so perfect. No flaws or stitches can be discovered where it might have been sewed together, its eyes are bright, and the fur is glossy, and does not have the appearance of a stuffed specimen. It looks very much alive, and able to take its nut and scamper up a tree quick as a wink. Isn’t that the way God does everything?

“God saw everything that He had made, and, behold, it was very good.” Genesis 1:31. He alone can give LIFE.

The second reason can be found when you think why that food is put out in front of it. It was a “bait.” Squirrels do not come down out of their trees to pose before a camera. O, no, they have an instinct that makes them fear man, and it is well that they do, for many of them have been trapped and killed.

Let’s all learn a lesson from this furry little animal. When we think of the snares Satan would use to try to make us captives to Sin, we should walk carefully and prayerfully.

“My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.” Proverbs 1:10.

ML 06/24/1945

Obedience

“How am I to know if I am obeying the Lord Jesus?” This is a question I have long had on my heart, and perhaps you, too, have wonrdered about it. Maybe an illustration will help us.

You and I can tell fairly well when we are doing things that are pleasing to our fathers and mothers, can’t we? Sometimes we can tell by the way they look at us. Other times, if we continue to displease them, they have to come to us and let us know they are not pleased, in some other way. And day by day, we learn to know our parents more and better. We learn to know what they like, and what they don’t like. And if we love them, we want to do just what they like.

So it is with the Lord Jesus, and the one who is saved by grace, and wants to please Him. We cannot see Him, but we have His Word, the Bible. And if we read much and often in our Bibles, and come to God in prayer in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and open our hearts and lives to Him, we will be able to discern whether or not we are pleasing and obeying Him when in communion.

We will never be free while down here, from failure, because our nature is sinful. But where our desire is toward Him, He will honor it. We should live as though He were right next to us, seeing and hearing everhing we do or say, our One Object being to please Him.

“THY WORD is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalms 119:105.

“Through THY PRECEPTS I get understanding.” Psalms 119:104.

So you see, God guides us through His Word, by His Holy Spirit, Who is given to all who are saved.

Our Father greatly desires that we should be happy, but we must always remember that the happy child is the obedient one. The most unhappy person is the one who pleases himself. Our Lord’s joy was to please the Father. May this also be our joy the little while He leaves us down here!

“Lord, I humbly pray for

Submission to Thy Word:

In every holy precept

May Thy blest voice be heard.

Speak in living power

Thine every word to me,

Causing me to render

Obedience unto Thee.”

ML 06/24/1945

Blind Muyamba

I want to tell you about a little girl who lived on an island where there were no schools such as we know them.

“How lovely!” do I hear some of you say? Yes, but how would you like it if you were not able to read? What a lot of pleasure you would miss, would you not? This little girl, although she was a dark-skinned native, often wished she could learn to read, but the only school was one where a fee had to be paid, and, as her ‘parents were very poor, she could not possibly hope that they would be able to pay for her to go.

Little Muyamba had to be content with hearing from other children about the school.

One sad day a great grief came to this poor little girl. Her mother died, and then soon after, little Muyambho had never been very strong—began to lose her sight, and before long she became blind.

I wonder if you have ever sat quietly with your eyes shut for one moment and tried to imagine what it must be like to be always in the dark? This was the lot of this poor little girl.

On top of all this trouble came another, for her father, who had no real love for his little daughter, deserted her, and she became dependent on an aunt who took pity on her. She lived with this aunt, who was very poor and she was in darkness, both physically and spiritually. She longed for her father, whom she loved, although he had left her. Worse than this, she had never heard of the Lord Jesus as the One who could save her, and give her joy in spite of all her sorrow.

A school teacher in the town some miles from where she lived, heard about the poor blind maiden and arranged for her to go into a Government Home for the Blind. There she started a new life, and one of the dires of her life was fulfilled, for she learned to read. Yes, in spite of her blindness, she was taught to read from a special book with her fingers. Not only this, but the best thing happened to her that can ever happen to any boy or girl. She heard about the Saviour.

Into that home came a lady who loved the Lord Jesus, and had meetings.

For a long time Muyamba would not go to these Gospel meetings. She aays pretended that she had a headache and could not go. At last she went and as she listened to the wonderful story you children know so well, her heart responded to His love, and she came to Him by faith. One day she was asked,

“Well, Muyamba, when are you going to accept Christ?”

“I have already,” she answered. “And what about your sins?” the lady asked, “O, teacher,” said Muyamba, “The Lord bore them away on the cross.”

What a wonderful answer from that blind girl! And what a wonderful change came into her life! She was able to read and, best of all, she was happy in knowing the Lord Jesus as her Saviour. She still longed after her father, but she knew that, through the Lord Jesus, God had become her Heanly Father, and that He would never desert her.

What about my readers? Do you all know Him? He is still waiting for you to come to Him. Will you today open your heart to Him, and then you will be able to say, “Once I was blind,

But now I can see,

The LIGHT OF THE WORLD IS JESUS.”

ML 06/24/1945

The Lord Himself Shall Come

Dear children, have you ever heard

That Christ the Lord will come,

With angel’s voice and trump of God,

To call His people home?

The saints of God, from death set free,

With joy shall mount on high;

The heaven shall ring with praises loud,

They’ll meet Him in the sky.

O! say, if He should come tonight,

Would you in terror be,

Or would you lift your heads with joy

The blessed Lord to see?

O! children, seek the Saviour now

The Saviour full of love;

And when He comes He’ll take you up

To His bright home above.

ML 06/24/1945

A Rich Farmer

Luke 12:1-21

Ever so many people crowded about the Lord Jesus as He walked through the streets, so many that they pushed one another; they all wanted to see Him, or hear His words, or see a miracle done; some wanted to ask something of Him.

One man asked Jesus to have his brother divide some property with him. It is not told that Jesus did that, He told the man not to covet (to wish for what another has). If the brothers were honest and not selfish, they could decide themselves what part each should have. If they coveted, wishing for more, they would not be satisfied, even if Jesus divided for them.

Jesus then told this story: “The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: and he thought within himself, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?

“This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater: and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years: take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.”

You see this man was already rich, with plenty for himself, and when a new crop was harvested he had no room to keep it. The word “fruit” as used here, meant what grew on his land, probably grain, which could be stored in dry buildings and kept a long time.

The man thought he would not need to work any more, and he would just have a good time. You notice he did not speak of thanking God for his good crop. Since he had so much, would it not have been kind and right for him to find out if his neighbors and those who worked for him had enough food? But he did not do that, he thought only of himself, and not that all belonged to God, even his own breath.

Jesus told what God said to that man; it was, “Thou fool (one who is not wise to believe God), this night thy soul shall be required of thee. Then whose shall those things be which thou hast prided?”

The man was to die that night; could he take any of his grain or sulies with him? No, none at all. He should have used them to honor God and to help others. The Lord Jesus said that all who save or use only for themselves, with no love for God, are like that rich farmer.

One of the things Jesus told the people was, that all people say or do, even when they think no one hears or knows, is known to God, and will be shown (see verse 2 and 3). This story shows that God also knew the man’s thoughts. These are words of Jesus, “Whosoever shall confess Me before men, him shall the Son of Man confess before the angels of God” (vs. 8).

ML 06/24/1945

Answers to Bible Questions for April

“The Children’s Class”

1.“Which he,” etc. Ephesians 1:20

2.“In whom,” etc. 1:7

3.“Husbands,” etc. 5:25

4.“But God,” etc. 2:4

5.“Not with,” etc. 6:6

6.“And be,” etc. 4:32

7.“The love of Christ.” 3:19

Bible Questions for July

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus and Philemon

1.Write in full the verse with the words, “Grace of God that bringeth salvation.”

2.Write in full the verse with the words, “Given by inspiration of God.”

3.Write in full the verse with the words, “I know whom I have believed.”

4.Write in full the verse with the words, “Hearing of thy love and faith.”

5.Write in full the verse with the words, “Give attendance to reading.”

6.Write in full the verse with the words, “Who giveth us richly all things.”

7.Why did Christ Jesus come into the world?

Answers to Bible Questions for April

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.In Asia Minor. Ephesians 1:1.

2.All who are not Jews. Ehp. 4:17.

3.A co-laborer of Paul. Ephesians 6:21.

4.Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. Ephesians 4:11-12.

5.Christ. Ephesians 2:20.

6.Christ. Ephesians 1:22.

7.The Holy Spirit. Ephesians 1:13.

Bible Questions for July

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus and Philemon

1.Who was an escaped slave?

2.Who refreshed the bowels of the saints?

3.How do we become vessels meet for the Master’s use?

4.In what are the rich to trust?

5.Whom is the believer to remember?

6.For Whom do we look?

7.For what is godliness profitable?

ML 07/01/1945

The Good Child

“But I am really a good child,” said a little girl, to whom I had spoken about the saving of her soul. I was trying to explain to her what God says about us, that we are all sinners, but she kept repeating, “I am a good child.”

“Tell me, then, what kind of pele the Lord Jesus died for?”

“For sinners,” was her quick reply. “Then are you not a sinner?” “No, I am good.”

“The Lord Jesus did not come to save good people.”

“My father says that I am good, and I am, indeed,” she repeated, and the tears ran down her cheeks.

“I do not doubt your father’s words, and gladly believe that you are very good to him, and that you are a lovable, obedient little daughter, kind and friendly to everybody; but all that is not sufficient for a holy God. Jesus says, ‘I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance’.”

“I do not believe you,” she cried. “I rather believe what father says.”

“You may not believe me, but I will read you what God’s Word says.” I drew my Bible out of my pocket, put my finger on the words, “There is none that doeth good, no, not one,” Romans 3:12, and asked her to read it out loud.

“I cannot read,” was the sullen awer, “but father can.”

“Will you ask your father to read this chapter to you? Have you a Bible?”

No, she had no Bible, but she said her father would read the chapter to her if she had one. I gave her a New Testament, and said to her, that she might call on me again.

A short time after, she came and told me with a happy look, that she had now found the Saviour.

I asked her how it came about, and she said: “My father read the chapter to me and I saw there that I was a sinner.”

“I asked the Lord Jesus to forgive all my sins, and He has really done it, and I am now so happy!”

I questioned her still farther, because I was afraid she might have been deceived. But she said that what I had told her about sin had made her very unhappy. She had always believed she was quite safe as she was, for she had been told that she would go to heaven, if she was good.

I had assured her that even bad thoughts were sin in God’s eyes, and when she remembered how many bad thoughts and sinful actions she had been guilty of, she was very much afraid; then she began to turn to the Lord.

“If the Lord Jesus were to come tight, would you go with Him to hean?” I asked. She was silent for a moment, then looked at me and said earnestly,

“Yes, I believe so.”

“Why do you believe it?”

“Because I have come to Him, and He says, “Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

ML 07/01/1945

The Resting Place

Here are two fine deer, and their two pretty baby deer. They have such a splendid resting place under this beautiful big tree with its shading branches.

They feel safe in this nice secluded spot, and they are pretty safe. But still some hunter might come along and discover them. They would be safe no longer.

Dear reader, are you safe? Perhaps you have a very comfortable and beautiful home, well guarded against storms, fire, thieves, and other dangers. You may think you have a resting place that is safe from every harm.

If you have learned to know and love the One who said,

“COME UNTO ME, ALL YE THAT LABOR AND ARE HEAVY LADEN, AND I WILL GIVE YOU REST.” Matthew 11:28.

you have indeed found a resting place from every danger, which Christ alone can give. With your soul resting there, you need have no fear.

ML 07/01/1945

Look and Live

How sad was my condition,

Till Jesus made me whole,

There is but one Physician,

Can cure a sin-sick soul.

‘Twas He that sought and found me,

And snatched me from the grave,

To tell to all around me,

His wondrous power to save.

A dying, risen Jesus,

Seen by the eye of faith,

At once from danger frees us,

And saves the soul from death.

Come then to this Physician,

His help He’ll freely give;

He makes no hard condition,

‘Tis only—look and live.

ML 07/01/1945

The Ravens and the Lilies

Luke 12:22-34

The Lord Jesus said that God had provided for the food of even the least varied of the birds, the ravens, which are wild, roving birds, always seeming to be hungry:

“They neither sow nor reap; which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them.”

God has given the ravens strong wings to fly far and find plenty of food. It is only God Who can supply food enough for people, and strength to get or eat it. Jesus asked the disciples,

“How much more are ye better than the fowls?”

“Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.”

We know the lilies and other flors grow wild in fields and by roadside, often in desert places. They cannot work for their beautiful petals, some red, some white, yellow, or other colors; they simply grow from the substances God has placed in the ground and water.

Yet the robes of the rich king, Solomon; made with great labor, were not as lovely, as the flowers. Jesus said for the disciples not to be anxious about what they will have to eat or to wear, because God knows they have need of such things. He said,

“The life is more than meat (food), and the body more than raiment (clothing).”

After Jesus was gone, the men and women who believed Him, worked to help each other, but their most important work and thoughts were not for food or clothes, but to tell people of Jesus as the Saviour. Sometimes men who did not believe in Him put them in prison and took away their food and clothes. But God knew their need, and that they suffered for love to the Lord Jesus, and He rewarded them with joy in Him, which they found far better.

Jesus said to give “alms,” which means what is given to help the sick, or anyone in need of necessary things.

And He said, instead of working just to have nice things on earth, those who loved Him, were to “provide bags, which wax (grow) not old, a treasure in Heaven.”

Men used strong bags to carry money or to hide it in, but those could wear out or be spoiled by a little moth, or be stolen. But what sort of a bag could be put in Heaven? Jesus meant whatever money or things anyone used for others, because they loved Him, God would know and reward them with better blessings of heaven; and no thief could take those, nor moth spoil.

Do you think boys and girls can put “bags of treasure” in Heaven? Do you ever have money and go in a hurry to buy a treat for yourself? Suppose instead, you said, “There are many boys and girls who have not heard of Jesus’ love. I will give this money to help send someone to tell them, or to buy a Testament for one.” God would see your gift and would reward you, it would be like “a bag of treasure in Heaven.”

ML 07/01/1945

Sheep

We all love to watch a flock of sheep quietly feeding on the hillside, and the little lambs skipping about, without any thought of where they are to get their food.

Their shepherd takes them from one place to another, and he finds out the best pastures for them.

The Lord Jesus has a flock of sheep and lambs, and He is their Shepherd.

Are you one of his flock? And is He your Shepherd? Can you say, with the Psalmist,

“The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters?” Psalms 23:1,2.

Where are these green pastures and still waters to be found for us? They are, dear children, in His blessed Word.

If any of you have not yet come to Jesus, listen now to His loving call, and you will then be one of His lambs, whom He will love and care for until He takes you to be with Himself fover.

“THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD: I SHALL NOT WANT. Psalms 23:1

ML 07/08/1945

My Dear Young Christian Friends

I have long felt a desire to write a word of warning in “Messages of the Love of God,” 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 have 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 solomn 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.

ML 07/08/1945

George's Dream

I want to tell you, dear children, about a boy I know.

One night, he dreamed that he saw a bright light in the sky with many stars around it, and that, as he looked, the sky opened and the Lord came out and took all true believers up to be with Himself, and the rest were left behind. The people in the street where he lived were filled with astonishment, and could not think where their neighbors had gone.

Now, God sometimes speaks to people by dreams, as you will see if you get your Bibles and read Job 33:14-30, and he certainly spoke to George that night, and I am glad to tell you that George listened to His voice.

Do YOU listen when God speaks to you? It may be by a dream, the death of a loved companion, or, as He most certainly has spoken to you, by His Word.

George began to think, would he be left behind if the Lord were to come? and feeling he was not ready, he became so sad that he could get no rest about the matter all the remainder of that week.

Saturday night came but no rest nor peace came to his troubled soul. On Sunday he was left alone with his mother in the evening, and still burdened, he said to her,

“Mother, how can I know that I am saved?”

“You must receive the message; that dream was a message from God to you, you must receive it,” she replied.

The following morning he told his mother that he was saved, that he had received the message.

George, like many who read these pages, knew the plan of salvation in his head. He had been brought up by Christian parents, who had taught him from his earliest days about the blessed Saviour, who came to suffer and die for sinners on the cross. But though he knew all about it, he had not yet appropriated it by simple faith, until God sent him this message in a dream to teach him the necessity of being “ready.”

Now, dear children, will you let this be a message from God to you? Jesus is coming; this dream will have its fuilment, some day, and will be soon, for He says, “Behold, I come quickly.” Revelation 22:7,12,20.

“The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain, shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” 1 Thessalonians 4:16,17.

He will not take away all. Which of you will go? God says, “They that were ready went in with Him (Jesus) to the marriage, and the door was shut.” Math. 25:10.

O! while there is yet time, come to the Lord Jesus, trust in Him, and you will be saved from the judgments that are coming on this poor world.

“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation.” “Be ye therefore ready also.”

ML 07/08/1945

Little Dot's Story

Little Dot was only four years old, when Jesus called her home to be with Himself, but young as she was, she knew Him as her Saviour, and was able to tell of His saving power. One day while the rain poured down and the thunder rolled, she sat on her mother’s knee, and hing her head in her mother’s bosom, she sang,

“Safe in the arms of Jesus,

Safe on His gentle breast.”

When her father came home at night, she told him seriously about the thunder and the lightening, then with a happy smile said,

“Dot not afraid; safe in Jesus’ bosie.”

Dot’s father wondered to hear these words, for although very kind, and fond of his little girl, he did not know Jesus as his personal Saviour.

When Dot went home to be with Jesus, he was very sad, and many of her words came back to his mind, especially that simple testimony of being safe “in Jesus’ bosom.”

Now he is a Christian, saved, and happy, and finds it his joy to tell others of Jesus and His love.

Are you hid from the coming storm of Divine wrath against sin, in Jesus Christ, dear little reader? Are you as sure as Dot was of being in Jesus’ bosom; or, His love?

“He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom.” Isaiah 40:11.

ML 07/08/1945

Faith

O! tell me, Mother! can it be

God loves a little child like me?

And speaks to me in all you’ve read?

Is that dear book what God has said?

It is, my child! ‘tis God’s own voice,

To make your little heart rejoice;

To tell you how He loved and led

Those who believed what God had said.

He once told Noah that a flood

Should drown those who believed not God;

But Noah lived when all were dead,

For he believed what God had said.

When God told Abram — in His grace

“This way leads to a better place,”

He went, not knowing where it led

But he believed what God had said.

And now God tells that from on high

He sent His only Son to die,

That, for my little one, He bled—

Let her believe what God has said.

I’ll bring her to My own bright place,

And let her look upon My face;

And O! how happy she will be,

Because she has believed in Me!

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

ML 07/08/1945

Servants for Christ

Luke 12:35-57

The Lord Jesus knew that He would be refused and put to death by the hatred of the rulers and that He would return to God the Father to Heaven. He knew that many would not want to hear His name, and would try to harm those who loved Him, so it would be hard for them to tell people of Him as the One Who died for. sinners.

So He said the disciples would be “servants” for Him while He would be away. He said they were to “gird” themselves. In those times men wore loose garments, which they girded, or held firm by belt or sash, to work (see Eph. 6:14).

His servants would prepare for His work by learning and keeping God’s words, which would keep their ways right. Jesus also said they were to have their “lights burning.” The streets in cities were not lighted as now, and on dark nights every man carried his own lamp or torch.

God’s words would be the “light” to guide these “servants,” so they would know the right path and also could show others, for their work would be to tell those who did not know God or His son Jesus.

Jesus would be a good Master, and would know all His “servants” would do for Him, and would fully reward them. But He knew how some of their own friends or families would not want to hear them, and that it would be hard to be faithful.

The comfort Jesus told the disciples was that they should look for Him to return, and wait for that time of joy. One loving promise was that “their Lord” or Master, would serve them. Was not that a wonderful promise? (vs. 37).

Sometimes people speak of serving Christ to receive eternal life with Him, but all God’s Word teaches such life can be given only because of Christ’s death to bear the punishment of sins. His true servants want to serve Him because they believe Him their Saviour.

All the people of that land should have known that Jesus was their prosed Messiah, for the Scriptures told that He would give sight to the blind, and heal all their diseases. So when Jesus did all those wonders, as no other could, they should have known Who He was. The things He did and His words should have been as signs for them.

Jesus said they could tell what the weather would be by the clouds and the wind, but they did not know it was the time promised.

All the disciples later went everywhere to tell of the. Lord Jesus, excepting Judas who was not honest or true. There must have been many boys and girls who heard Jesus’ words who did not forget Him, and became servants for Him too, telling others of Him.

ML 07/08/1945

The Works of the Lord

I meditate on all Thy works; I muse on the work of Thy hands.” Psalms 143:5.

Children, generally, are interested in looking at beautiful objects, and where can they see anything so beautiful as the wonderful works of God!

“The works of the Lord are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.” Psalms 111:2.

If you find pleasure in looking at these wonderful works, you will be less likely to be carried away by the many vanities and foolish sights which offer their attractions, in order to keep you away from the Lord Jesus Christ, in Whom alone are found “pleasures for evermore.”

Only those who know Him as their Saviour and Lord, can enjoy the dine pleasures that never end. Then you will be able to join in the song of praise to Him.

“UNTO HIM THAT LOVED US AND WASHED US FROM OUR SINS IN HIS OWN BLOOD TO HIM BE GLORY AND DOMINION Forever AND EVER. AMEN.” Revelation 1:5, 6.

ML 07/15/1945

She Believed

A few Christians were gathering at a house for reading the scriptures and prayer. The weather was uncertain, and the rain began to fall heavily as the little meeting was about to commence.

A young girl, a Jewess, was hurrying quickly by the door to her home, when a lady who was entering the house asked her if she would like to take shelter until the rain was over. She was glad to do so, though she was unaware that the gracious Lord was going to lead her that day to find a shelter in Himself of which no storm henceforth could deprive her.

Ida’s father was an infidel, her motr indifferent to religion, and Ida, though brought up in the faith of her father, had well-nigh become infidel too.

But shortly before the incident we have mentioned, the Lord graciously brought her within sound of the message of redeeming love. A Christian servant came to live in the house, from whom Ida heard the power and preciousness of the name of Jesus. The glad tidings of peace, through the blood of the cross, were a new sound to her, and the Lord inclined Ida’s heart to listen, and awakened in her a desire to hear more.

As Ida and the lady who had asked her to shelter from the rain entered the room, a man was speaking on those words in John 11, “Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on Him.”

The words at once caught the girl’s attention, and the speaker, without knowing he was addressing one in a like condition, went on to show the need and the supply; the disease and the remedy.

Truth, that often falls wearily on thoughtless souls, because so often heard, was listened to eagerly by Ida. She heard of Him who went down into the dust of death for her, heard that God is just, and the Justifier of him that believeth on Jesus. To her the glad tidings were as the rising of the sun in the darkness of the night. She believed, not because her intellect was satisfied, or because the reasonings of unbelief were stilled, but because she found in the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, enough to satisfy both heart and soul, and give her rest forever. She heard the things that Jesus did, and believed on Him.

Ida had now learned the blessed truth that in Christ Jesus there is neither Jew nor Gentile, bond nor free, but that Christ is all and in all.

ML 07/15/1945

What Is Whiter Than Snow?

Alberta was the six-year-old daughter of an English nobleman. Many a romp in the snow with “Duke,” the favorite dog, and her sister and brother, had she revelled in, and many a snowball fight had she enjoyed; so that when the nursery taught her the prayer,

“Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow” (Psa. 51:7), she had an anxious desire not only to know but also to understand the meaning of the words.

The children had thought “Duke” pure and clean after his weekly wash, but when he got out in the snow he almost looked as if he was a doggie member of the great unwashed. They had laid their lovely linen handkerchiefs on the snow, and it seemed almost to make them look unlovely. Yet here was something “whiter” than the “whitest” thing she knew. “Whiter than snow?” This took hold of the mind of the little miss. That night, finding her father alone, she ventured in childlike tones to ask, “Father, do you know anything whiter than snow?” Surprised at such a peculiar question, the man of wealth and man of the world, replied,

“No, my darling, there is nothing whiter than snow.”

“O, but there is, father,” responded the little one,

“What is it, then, my child?” now eagerly questioned the fond parent.

“Father, a soul washed in the Blood of Jesus is whiter than snow!”

Amazed at the earnestness of his loved child, annoyed at the introduction into his family of such distinctive views, he inquired who had been itilling into Lady Alberta’s mind such things. Finding it was her devoted and faithful nurse, he immediately sent for her and asked if she had been teacng her young charge such religious views. On admitting that she had taught her the Snow Prayer and other precious truths from the Bible, he informed her that such could not be permitted under his roof, and ordered her to leave at once.

Not long after this stirring event a Royal Prince paid the nobleman a visit. Great preparations were made for the reception of Royalty, none of the members of the household looking forward with more delight to the coming of the Prince than little Lady Alberta. One day during the Royal stay she ventured into the Prince’s apartment. The visitor felt drawn to the sweet little child, and spoke kindly to her. After timidly prattling with him for a while, she suddenly stopped and said,

“Prince, do you like guesses?” “Yes, dear; what is it?”

“Prince, can you tell me what is whiter than snow?”

“Ah, here was something different to state problems, international alliances, worldly wisdom, great inventions, or questions of the hour. A child’s simple puzzle!

“Whiter than snow? I have never heard of anything whiter than snow. Have you?”

“Yes, Prince,” modestly replied the little maiden, “A soul washed from all its sins in the Blood of Jesus is whiter than snow.”

“Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.”

The nobleman, after his fit of anger at the question when first asked, had begun to inquire, “Am I washed in the blood?”

The question addressed to the King once more brought the subject vividly before him. Was it possible that he might be whiter than snow? He began to search the Scriptures. Therein he read the gracious invitation,

“Come now, and let us reason tether, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” Isaiah 1:18.

Therein he learned that “the Blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

Then he realized that though his sins were “blacker than coal” (Lam. 4:8), yet the Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour, had appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself on the Cross of Calvary (Heb. 9:27).

In simple faith he “believed on the Lord Jesus Christ” and found the promise true, “thou shalt be saved.” (Acts 16:31).

Will you “do likewise” even at this moment?

ML 07/15/1945

A Crippled Woman

Luke 13:11-25

One day when the Lord Jesus was teaching the people in a synagogue, a woman came in all bent over, and she could not straighten up. That might not be so dreadful for a little while, but this woman had been so a very long time.

As soon as Jesus saw her, He called her to Him, and said to her,

“Woman, thou art loosed of thine infirmity.” Then He put His hands on her, and she became straight.

The woman was very thankful and spoke in honor to God, and all the people were thankful that such a great cure was done. But the leader of the synagogue was not pleased; he called it work that should not be done bause it was the Sabbath day.

God had given the law for the pele of Israel to do no work on the Sabbath, that they should remember that He had freed them from being slaves, and they were to honor Him (Deut. 5:15). But they did not honor God, and had their own rules for what they called work, and cared more for their rules than for God.

The man should have known that One Who had such power to cure, knew the right time to do it. Jesus asked him if he did not unfasten his animals from the stalls and lead them to water on the Sabbath. So should not the poor woman be made free of her trouble? He called her, “a dauger of Abraham,” which meant she believed God, as Abraham had; she was also of the same race.

Then some of the men seemed to want to frighten Jesus that He should go away from the city, and told Him that Herod, the ruler, would try to kill Him.

Jesus did not fear Herod, and said He must keep on His work, and called Herod deceitful, as “a fox,” which slips up on other animals in the dark. But He asked the men of Jerusalem if it could be that a prophet would perish there. They should protect a prophet, because it was the city God had chosen for His Temple, and where they knew His words.

A prophet is one who tells God’s words, and Jesus was the Great Proet, whom Moses said would come (Deut. 18:15). But the leaders in that city did not believe He was from God. Jesus was very sad that they would not believe Him. Another place speaks of His weeping over it. He said, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem.... how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings.”

You know when it begins to be night, or a storm coming, a hen clucks to her little chicks and they come close and she covers them with her wings to protect them.

Jesus meant He would so carefully have sheltered the people of Jerusalem, if they would have let Him, but He said the sad words, “Ye would not.” He is just as willing now to save all who will believe Him, from the punishment of their sins, and it must just as deeply grieve Him, if any “will not” believe or “come.”

ML 07/15/1945

Listening

The interesting picture on our paper today brings many thoughts to one’s mind. Doesn’t it look as if the dog has raised his head to listen more intently to what his little mistress is saying to him? How earnestly she is watching to see if Mickey the dog understands her, and waiting to see if he will obey her?

Does it not remind us that there is One above looking down on us to see if you and I hear Him speaking to us in His Holy Word, and watching to see if our lives show that we have heard and are seeking to obey His voice?

You know the Lord Jesus says in Luke 8:18,

“Take heed how ye hear.”

Many, many today hear the Word of God, but heed it not—as the old saying is,

“It goes in one ear and out the other” but that is carelessness and indifference, and is dishonor to the Lord.

So let us, dear children, and young folks, when God’s Word is read, be careful how we hear and strive to say with the Psalmist.

“I WILL HEAR WHAT GOD THE LORD WILL SPEAK.” Psalms 85:8.

ML 07/22/1945

Birds and What They Teach Us

See the trees and hedges, how they swarm with prey birds. A man who is fond of birds calls them God’s preachers, and no doubt they have many valuable lessons to teach us. Next time you are passing along the road, or through the woods, see what you can learn from God’s bird preachers.

Two sparrows sitting on the branch of a tree chirping their morning thanks to God, so convinced a thankless, God-forgetting man of his sin, that he found no peace till he was converted and praising God for salvation. A Christian had for his coat of arms a pair of birds, with the text underneath,

“Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings.”

“Once he was a poor boy, and had no one to care for him. A kind friend was raised up by God who took him, and taught him to read, and gradually he rose to an honored position as a man and a Christian. He owed it all to God, and so he loved to acknowledge it.

God cares more for you than the sparrows, and gave far more for your redemption: He gave His Son.

Boys and girls become like what they feed on. Reading stories of cruelty makes them cruel. Low class stories make boys just like the men they tell of. How careful then you should be, what you read and what you hear.

“Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil.

Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.” Proverbs 4:14,15.

If we know the Lord Jesus as our Saviour, read our Bibles and learn more of Him, walk and talk with Him, we shall grow more like Him—He is meek and lowly.

ML 07/22/1945

A Message from a Dear Boy

If there is a joy on earth like that which fills all heaven, it is to see a young, rough, wild boy snatched from the power of sin and Satan. If anything can add to that joy, it is to witness such a one finish his short course with gladness, and pass away, not only in peace, but positively triumphing over death and the grave.

I am going to tell you of one who passed away from all the sin and sorrow, and temptations and the defilents of a crowded and wicked city, into the presence of his Lord.

You all know that a great many boys who spend time idly on the streets at night and perhaps I need not tell you that, as a rule, they are an uncared for, and wicked class of boys. But among these I have found a precious, and not unfruitful field of labor. I seek to make these boys my friends. When the day’s work is done, I gather them around me, to help them, and instruct them, and as often as possible tell them of the love and the life, and the dying work of One who came down from heaven to save poor sinners, the Lord Jesus Christ.

On visiting my boys one day, I found that one was absent, kept away by sickness, and on the same evening I was unexpectedly spoken to by his father, who in great distress told me that he was lying dangerously ill at the hospital, and that he greatly wand to see me. Poor man! the sting of death was piercing his soul.

“O,” said he, with an anxious, agonized face, and the tears trickling down his care worn cheeks, “O, my son!”

I tried to comfort him, but, alas! he knew not Christ, nor the antidote to the sting of death.

That night I hastened to the hospital, and was soon by the bedside of my suffering boy. There he lay, but he did not know me. He was in a raging fever and unconscious to all around; yet was his mind most active. And what do you think filled his thoughts? JESUS, the blessed Lord Jesus, whom, in spite of all his temptions and circumstances, he had learned to trust as his Saviour, and to love as a friend. In the midst of the raging fever, what do you think was the burden of his song?

“Safe in the arms of Jesus,” rang out clear in that hospital ward. It was sorrowful to see such a wreck of nature, but, O, the relief, when in the midst of that wreck, the soul can thus cling to, and find its rest in Jesus.

The next time I stood by that beide, the fever was gone, but weakness was left behind. With outstretched arms he welcomed me, and again, but now with feeble voice, came forth the same cheering words.

“Safe in the arms of Jesus” calling forth from myself the joyful response, “Yes, safe on His loving breast.”

“Yes, yes,” said the boy, a bright smile lighting up his face, “I am resting there in perfect peace.”

After a few sentences from the Word of God, and a few words of prayer (for he was too weak to bear much), I rose to leave. Gently drawing my ear to his face, he whispered.

“I want you to take my message to the boys. Tell them I was once a poor, needy, guilty sinner, but that Jesus has died for me; tell them I am simply trusting in the finished work of Christ; tell them that, helpless as I am, He will not cast me out; tell them, ‘Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world.’

“O! tell them I want them to meet me in glory; tell them the same Jesus is there, and that He has gone to prepare a home in that beautiful land for all those who will put their trust in Him.”

His strength was nearly gone, but there stood his weeping, unconverted mother, and it seemed as if he could not depart without one more appeal to her. O, how he prayed, how he urged her to come to Jesus. His last feeble whispers were,

“Mother, I am dying; promise me you will meet me in the glory.” Most touching and solemn was this moment. There lay the dying, beseeching, pleasing, gasping boy; there stood the weeping, brokenhearted mother. And then with sobs came out the promise,

“O, yes, I will meet you in glory.”

Nor was it a vain promise, for she too has since found the joy of being safe in the arms of Jesus.

Dear young friends, is there no meage in these dying words for you? If stricken down with fever, would your language be,

“Safe in the arms of Jesus?” Or would it have to be said of you,

“So near the door—and the door stood wide—

Close to the port—but not inside!

Near to the flock—yet not within!

Almost resolved to give up sin!

Almost persuaded to count the cost!

Almost a Christian—and yet lost!”

O, that your cry may be—

“Saviour; I come, I cry unto Thee;

O, let not these words be true of me!

I want to come to the point today;

O, suffer me not to turn away!

Give me no rest till my soul shall be

Within the refuge—Safe in Thee!”

ML 07/22/1945

The Great Supper

Luke 14:1-24

A certain man made a great supper and invited many; and sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, ‘Come for all things are now ready.’ And they all began to make excuse.”

It seems in that land the guests were first invited, then when all was ready, word was sent for them to come; such feasts were most often an evening meal.

But the men invited to this feast all had excuses not to come: one said he had bought a piece of ground and must go to see it: another said he had bought five yoke of oxen and was going to try them; all had plans they, thought more important. This was very disrespectful to the man who had the feast prepared for them, and they had nothing to pay or to do for it, only to come.

The man was very disappointed to have no guests and he told his servant to go into the streets and lanes of the city and bring the persons he found there, the poor, the lame, and blind, to eat his supper. The servant went and those people came, yet there was room for more.

So the man sent the servant outside the city to the highways and to the hedges, where the workers of the fields and orchards would be, to call them to the feast, for the man wanted all his seats filled; he wanted to share his good things with all who would come. Jesus Was showing that God has good things He wants to share with people, called “a great supper.”

But many who knew God’s invatition thought their own ways and things were more important and would not go with Christ, God’s “Servant.” Many poor and helpless ones accepted Him, and yet there was room for many more in God’s House, and all people were invited.

We might say this story was not really finished, for you notice that it is not told of the house being full, so we know God’s “feast” is still waiting for more “guests.” The invitation to come to Christ and enjoy God’s love and all He provides, may still be accepted, even by ones poor” and unworthy, which all really are.

And notice too, that, the ones who were careless of the invitation were not forced to come; those who came felt their need of the supper, and the kiness of the invitation “compelled” them.

So now God does not force any to “come” to His “feast,” but has sent the great invitation, telling of Jesus as Saviour, and that all who receive Him shall be with Him: “Whosoever will may come.” Revelation 22:17.

Sometimes boys and girls and older persons say they will “wait a while” to think of this, and that there is “plenty of time.” But the Lord Jesus did not say that in the story; the meage was, “Come; for all things are now ready.”

Jesus said of those who refused, that they should not taste of that “supper.”

ML 07/22/1945

A Little Ship

A little ship was on the sea,

It was a pretty sight;

It sailed along so pleasantly,

And all was calm and bright.

The sun was sinking in the west;

The shore-was near at hand,

And those on board with hearts at rest,

Thought soon to reach the land.

When lo! a storm began to rise;

The wind blew loud and strong;

It blew the clouds across the skies;

It blew the waves along.

And all but One were sore afraid

Of sinking in the deep;

His head was on a pillow laid,

And He was fast asleep.

“Master, we perish! Master save!”

They cried; their Master heard:

He rose, rebuked the wind and wave,

And stilled them with a word.

He to the storm said “Peace be still!”

The raging billows cease;

The mighty winds obey His will,

And all are hushed in peace.

They greatly wondered—so may we,

And ask as well as they,

Who could this glorious Person be,

Whom winds and seas obey?

O, well we know it was the Lord,

The Saviour and the Friend,

Whose care of those who trust His word

Will never, never end.

“HAVING LOVED HIS OWN WHICH WERE IN THE WORLD, HE LOVED THEM UNTO THE END.” John 13:1.

ML 07/29/1945

Which Are You Like?

While out walking, I met an old man. He sat on a seat reading the newspaper. His face bore an unsatisfied, unhappy look. I went up to him and politely offered him a tract. He looked at it and shook his head.

“Please take this leaflet,” I said; “it speaks of Jesus and of the way in which man can be happy forever.”

“No,” he replied in an abrupt and sharp tone, “I don’t wish it.”

Ah, there was no heart for Christ; no love for His blessed Person. The name of Jesus had no sweet sound for the ear of that old man. Saddened, I went further along. In a few minutes, I met another old man with snow white hair. He appeared to be ill and feeble, for he went on crutches and seemed to be suffering. To him I offered the despised tract, and behold, he not only took it, but said with a joyful voice:

“You serve a good Master.”

“Do you know my Master?” I asked.

“Do I know Him?” cried out the old man, a tear rolling down his wan cheeks. “Yes, thank God, I have known Him for fifty years. When I was still a boy, I took Him as my Friend and have never regretted it. He is a good Master and the best Friend that heaven and earth can give.”

“Then do you find Jesus precious also in your old age?” I asked.

“O yes; very precious,” he replied. “He is beside me in my old feeble days, He never forsakes me, and very soon I shall be with Him.”

It was a joy to look on that dear old face on which old age and sickness had carved deep furrows, but which beamed with heavenly brightness. We parted with a hearty handshake and the words,

“We’ll meet again, above!”

Which of these two men do you resemble, my dear reader? Would you not like to be as that worthy old man, who was so happy even in sickness, and on the brink of the grave? If you would, then do as he did, and take Jesus now as your Saviour and Friend. Truly, you also will never regret it.

“Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.” Psalms 32:1.

ML 07/29/1945

A Child's Trust

I have a sweet, true story to tell the dear children, who with bright expectant faces receive “Messages of the Love of God” 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 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 shoes 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 shoes?”

“O, 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 your father is a little stronger, and if it pleases the Lord to raise him up again, he will buy you shoes.”

Harry sat down to consider matters. After a silence of some time, he said,

“Mother, the last time I was at Sunday school, the teacher told us that the Lord Jesus has all power; that He can do whatever He pleases; He could send me some shoes if He pleased.”

“Yes, dear, I 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? I would say, ‘just as you please, Lord Jesus’.”

So taking his old shoes 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 shoes, his mother felt sure he was still praying, and also watcng 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 little money which was sent by a man, who, though he had heard of the illness of Harry’s father, did not know of the the little boy’s need or of his prayer. Upon receiving the gift, the mother said,

“The Lord has sent the money, and Harry shall have the shoes,” 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 needs 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.” Philippians 4:19.

ML 07/29/1945

The Shepherd's Care

How carefully the shepherd’s keep

The flocks within their sight;

So Jesus watches o’er His sheep,

And guards them day and night.

The shepherd numbers, twice a day,

The flock beneath his care;

He knows if any goes astray,

Or sick or dying are.

So Jesus reckons, one by one,

And numbers all His sheep;

He knows if but a lamb is gone,

For He doth never sleep.

The flocks of men are bought with gold,

And grass is all their food;

The sheep and lambs of Jesus’ fold

Are purchased with His blood.

ML 07/29/1945

Following Jesus

Luke 14:25-35

Great crowds of people followed the Lord Jesus when He and the disciples passed through the villages on the way to Jerusalem.

All must have known of the miracles Jesus had done and of His wisdom, so wished to see and hear this great Teacher.

You know now when there is a special event, people gather crowding one upon another, so it was then. Men think that an honor, but Jesus knew many were not in earnest to know Him, but were curious to see some wonder. He knew He was soon to be rejected as their King, and that few believed Him to be God’s Son.

He knew all who believed in Him would also be despised and often harmed, so it would not be easy for them to say they were His followers or to tell people of Him.

That was the reason He told the people that if they wished to be true followers, they must think more of Him than of all others. He deserves that all should give Him their love above even their family, for all first belong to Him.

You may think it strange the Lord used the word “hate” about their families, because He had before said to “love” even an enemy (Matt. 5:44). But it seems to mean they might have to be against their friends or relatives who did not believe in Jesus, to give up all to be true to Him.

Jesus said all who followed His ways should be like a man who wants to build a tower, so he first sits down and counts how much it would cost.

For if he started to build and did not have money to finish, others would laugh at him.

People who believe God are called “His building” (Eph. 2:22), and all who tell others of Christ help build that “tower.” It may cost them the favor of friends or loved ones.

Jesus also asked those about Him if a king were going to fight against a stronger king’s army, would he not first consider if it were possible to win? There is a very strong king, Satan, for Christians to “fight,” but they can remember that God is with His weak people, and so they are able to “win.” He will also give the strength to “build” for Christ.

The Lord Jesus wanted those who started to follow His teachings to be in earnest, and to know it would not be easy. There were many disciples afterward who gave up their homes and comforts to tell people of Christ as Saviour.

It is still not easy to be a faithful follower of the Lord Jesus, but this chapter shows how well He knew this. Those who obey His words, “Follow thou Me,” shall receive a great reward. “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” John 10:27.

He spoke of salt losing its savor, or taste, and then it is useless; so are we useless as followers, if we lose our desire and earnestness to be true to Himself.

ML 07/29/1945

Answers to Bible Questions for May

“The Children’s Class”

1.Colossians 1.20

2.“For which,” etc. 3:6

3.“That at the,” etc. Phil. 2:10

4.“For to me,” etc. 1:21

5.“Be careful,” etc. 4:6

6.“Let your,” etc. Col. 4:6

7.Christ Jesus his Lord. Philippians 3:8

Bible Questions for August

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Hebrews

1.“The some yesterday, and to-day, and forever.”

2.Write in full the verse with the words, “Crowned with glory and honor.”

3.Write in full the verse with the words, “Thoughts and intents of the heart.”

4.Write in full the verse with the words, “Spoken unto us by his Son.”

5.Write in full the verse with the words, “To bear the sins of many.”

6.Write in full the verse with the words, “Impossible for God to lie.”

7.Who had the “testimony that he pleased God”?

Answers to Questions for May

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.A Jewish religious sect. Philippians 3:5.

2.Women in the Philippian assembly who had had a falling out. Philippians 4:2.

3.A beloved physician, friend and co-laborer of Paul. Colossians 4:14.

4.A believer of Colosse, a friend and co-laborer of Paul. Colossians 1:7.

5.Messenger sent by Philippian assembly to Paul. Philippians 4:18.

6.A Roman province north of Greece. Philippians 4:15.

7. A faithful brother sent by Paul to Colosse. Colossians 4:9.

Bible Questions for August

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in Hebrews

1.Who profits by chastening?

2.For what did Abraham look?

3.What is necessary for the remission of sins?

4.For what does Christ ever live?

5.For what reason did our Saviour pray with tears?

6.Who constitute Christ’s house?

7.Whom do we now see by faith?

ML 08/05/1945

Do You Know

If the Lord Jesus should come today—and He may, for He has promised to come, but has not told us the day nor the hour—that if you do not believe on Him as your Saviour, you will be cast into hell forever? His Word says, “Whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:15

BUT, DO YOU KNOW:—That Jesus said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth My Word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, HATH eveasting life, and SHALL NOT come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.” John 5:24.

Where will you spend eternity? The choice is yours.

ML 08/05/1945

"What's Wages, Father?"

A little one had just returned home from her Sunday school, where a servant of Christ had been addressing several hundred children. She ran up to her father—one of those careless, indifferent sort of men—one who does nobody any harm (so he thinks), and is quite satisfied with himself — spending the Lord’s Dav over his newspaper.

“Father,” said this little one, “What’s wages?”

“What’s wages? Why wages is what I bring home on Saturday nights, and give to mother to buy all sorts of things for the house — your clothes, too.”

“Father, what’s the wages of sin?” “Nonsense, child, where did you hear this stuff?”

“But, father, what’s the wages of sin? Shall I tell ‘ee, father? The wages of sin is death, father!”

Turning to his wife, he angrily said, “I won’t have this child go to that school any more, to bring home such things as this.”

“Father,” persisted the little one, “shall I tell ‘ee where they pays them wages?”

“No, never mind, I don’t want to know?”

“Father, the devil pays them wages in hell, father.”

The father now is at last aroused as to his sinful condition, and turning to his wife, says, in a subdued voice, “If thee’ll rock th’ cradle, I’ll go to meeting tonight.”

He went, and “the day” alone will declare the result of the arrow which his little girl was used of God to shoot into her father’s conscience.

May the quaint, but startling questions put by this little girl to her father, arouse you, my dear children.

The servant of Christ had been addressing the children on that last verse of Romans 6, and what laid hold of this little lamb was the first part of that verse, “The wages of sin is death.” Another Scripture (Heb. 9:27) reads, But after this the judgment:” and after the judgment,

“The lake of fire” (Rev. 20:15).

What an awfully solemn connection and result those three verses present—DEATH., JUDGEMENT., HELL.

“The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

May you, through His grace, give up “wages” and accept God’s “gift,” and so instead of “death” and its “after this the judgment,” you possess “eternal life” in Christ, and the result of this is, “When Christ who is our life shall appear, then shall we also appear with Him in glory.” Colossians 3:4.

Ponder these solemn contrasts, WAGES—GIFT.

DEATH—LIFE.

LAKE OF FIRE—GLORY.

May you give up the “wages” and accept the “gift” — the Lord Jesus Christ, NOW.

ML 08/05/1945

Carried

This little fellow has found a new way to carry his pet — in a basket on his back! But—while riding along so comfortably, the kitten sees something to interest him, and don’t you think he looks just ready to jump out? How surprised our little boy would be when arriving home, to find the kitten gone!

So perhaps after all, it is not the safest way to carry a pet! How would you suggest that he be carried?

“In his arms,” I hear someone saying. Yes indeed, for then he could keep his eye on the kitten, and do you know that the Lord Jesus has promised to carry His little lambs in His arms?

“And who are His lambs?” you may ask. The lambs are the children who have trusted in Jesus as their Saviour, and now are on their way to the happy Home which He has prepared for them. God’s Word says: “HE SHALL GATHER THE LAMBS WITH HIS ARM AND CARRY THEM IN HIS BOSOM.” Isaiah 40:11.

How safe they must be!

ML 08/05/1945

The Lost Sheep

Luke 15:1-10

Perhaps you know that if a sheep strays away, it does not find its way back as other animals will, so the shepherd must go after it; often it keeps on among bushes or rocks where it is hard to find it. The Lord Jesus once told about a lost sheep, He said, “What man of you having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which was lost, until he find it?

“When he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth tether his friends and neighbors, sang unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.”

If you had a little pet lamb, which wandered away, you would not rest until you found it, and had it safe home, would you? Perhaps you could not lift the lamb on your shoulders, and carry it, but that is what a strong shepherd can do.

We can understand that the Lord Jesus really wanted to teach of what is of far greater value than sheep; He wanted to show them about people who are “lost” to God, because of sins, for He said the shepherd’s joy over finding the sheep, is like the joy in Heaven over one sinner that repents of his sins.

Jesus Himself was like the kind shepherd, He came to earth to “find” and save men, women, boys and girls, who all go their own way, and are far from God’s way. It was not easy for Him to save people “lost” in sin—to do that He gave His own life.

But notice how He told the tender care of a shepherd, taking the tired sheep on his shoulders and carrying it back, and rejoicing over it. So is His care for every one who repents, or is sorry and ashamed of his sins. If you would like the Lord Jesus to save you, all you can do is to tell Him about your sins, and trust Him as your Saviour, and He will “take” you safe to Heaven.

Perhaps you do not think you are lost from God, but read these words: “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.” Isaiah 53:6.

“All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23.

Jesus told also how sorry a woman would be to lose one piece of silver. It is said that silver pieces were often a marriage gift, so much prized, and if a woman lost one she would search carefully for it. When she found it she would be happy and tell her friends, as the shepherd would to find the sheep.

And Jesus said so would there be joy in the presence of the angels over one sinner that repenteth.

It is very wonderful to know that there can be joy in Heaven when one boy or girl or man or woman is sorry for his ways and trusts the Lord Jesus to save him.

ML 08/05/1945

Puss and the Crab

What a dangerous position puss is in, just look at her, she seems to be wondering if it will be safe for her to play with that crab. If the crab does not advance to her, she might think it will be all right to slap it with her paw, but if she does. We know the danger she is in, for if the crab gets hold of her with these claws, puss would yell terribly, for crabs have great strength in their claws and can pinch so hard that puss would not be able to get away.

It is evident that the best thing for Miss Puss to do, is to go on her way and leave Mr. Crab alone.

Do we not get a good lesson from this? Others may coax you to do things or go places, which you know would be wrong and displeasing to the Lord Jesus, but, dear children, do not listen to such, no matter how attractive and interesting it may seem. They may laugh at you and be very unkind to you, if you refuse to take part with them in their wrong doing, but listen what God says in His Word:

“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.” Proverbs 4:14. 15.

“My son, if sinners entice thee, Coent thou not.” Proverbs 1:10.

“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sieth in the seat of the scournful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord (or the Bible): and in His law doth he meditate day and night.” Psalms 1:1,2.

ML 08/12/1945

That's Enough for Me

A child who had a dear mother asked of one who had none:

“What do you do without a mother to tell all your trouble to?”

“Mother told me to whom to go, before she died,” answered the little orphan. “I go to the Lord Jesus; He was my mother’s friend and He is mine.”

“Jesus Christ is in the sky. He is away off and has a great many things to attend to in heaven. It is not likely He will stop to mind you.”

“I don’t know anything about that,” replied the little orphan. “All I know is He says He will, and that’s enough for me.”

What a beautiful answer that was!

And what was enough for the child is enough for us, is it not? Hebrews 4:15,16.

ML 08/12/1945

God's Protecting Care

My wife and I made a sleigh journey to my parents-in-law, in order to spend the following day in honor of my father-in-law’s birthday.

We left our half-year-old twins at home under the care of an old nurse, whom we could fully trust.

We spent a very happy day with each other. Towards evening, however, my wife expressed the wish to return home, as she felt anxious about the children. I was also seized with the same wish, and as the frost had become less severe, making us fear that thaw would set in, which would have hindered us very much with our sleighing, we decided to return home that same evening.

It was a splendid journey. The horses just flew over the frozen ground, so that we advanced very rapidly. About nine o’clock we reached the outskirts of a large wood. Our horses, in entering the wood, began to show unmistakeable signs of restlessness. They would rear high up, and then suddenly, fly off at a tremendous rate. We could not understand the cause. There was nothing round about to account for this strange behavior. In the distance we heard sharp howls of dogs. Apart from that, nothing was to be seen or heard.

With astonishing speed the horses raced on. Franz, our old coachman, did all he could to quiet them, but in vain. Meantime the howls came nearer. I looked around and saw two great hungry dogs running behind our sleigh.

“Let them come near,” I cried to Franz, “and give them a dose of the whip.”

The old man turned around.

“O, master,” he cried in terror, “they are wolves!”

I had never seen a wolf, as they had long ceased to visit that neighborhood. But Franz, who had spent all his life there, knew them of old. The intense frost of that winter must have driven the animals from their usual haunts into the neighboring districts, which they formerly avoided, and hunger had made them bloodthirsty.

As we were unarmed, our safety lay in the speed of our horses. We urged them on with the whip, but our pursuers followed close on our heels. My wife sat next to me, stiff with horror and white with fear. Both of us seemed to feel already the hot breath of these terrible beasts.

When they drew nearer to us, Franz threw his fur cloak to them. Furiously they threw themselves on this prey, so that we gained a little on them.

But this trick did not help us much, for soon they were on us again. What would become of us? Would we finally become their victims? O, how we cried to God in our anguish!

And God helped us. We succeeded in reaching our home. Fortunately the gate in the high hedge that surrounded the ground, stood open. In a flash we were in the courtyard; the wolves hesitated a moment, and before they could follow us, Franz had closed the gate. We were saved.

Immediately we went to the room where our children slept. But how shall I describe our new terror, when thick, heavy smoke met us. I sprang to the door and opened it. My wife shrieked aloud. The nurse lay in her bed insensible, the children looked pale in the cradle. We carried all three into our bedroom, and to our unspeakable joy succeeded, after some time, in bringing them to consciousness. We then discovered how the fire occurred. A piece of burning coal must have fallen out of the fire when they were sleeping. The dry wooden floor had caught fire and the thick smoke resulted. Had we arrived a quarter of an hour later, we would have found our two darlings, as well as their nurse, corpses.

That night I learned what true thanksgiving is. Such anguish the pursuit of the wolves had given us, yet these very bloodthirsty brutes had served in the wonderful counsel of God to spur on our horses to greater speed, so that we might not come to our children too late.

Yes, God reigns. Even the wild anals of the woods must obey Him while He protects His own.

“O, that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men.” Psalms 107:8.

ML 08/12/1945

Jesus Loves You

Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.” Mark 10:14.

Little children, Jesus loves you,

He loves you—yes, indeed;

Why, He came from heaven on high

He came to meet your need.

Think! He laid aside His glory,

To come to earth below,

To save our souls from misery,

And everlasting woe.

Jesus died for you, dear children,

To put your sins away,

And fit you for His home in heaven

In everlasting day.

Yes, Jesus died on Calvary,

Upon that cross of shame,

That you might ever happy be—

O, blessed be His name!

O, come to Jesus, trust in Him

He waits to meet you now;

His precious blood cleanses from sin,

And washes white as snow.

ML 08/12/1945

The Lost Son

Luke 15:11-32

Once a young man who had a good home did not want to stay there; he wanted to go away where he could do just as he pleased. So he asked his father for his share of money, which the father gave him, and he soon went to a far country.

There he spent his money in foolish, wicked ways, until a time of famine came and he had no money left to buy food, and no one gave him any. Then he went to work for a man, taking care of swine. But no good food was prided for him, and he was so hungry he wished he could eat the husks the same as the pigs ate.

Then this young man began to think how foolish he had been to leave his father’s good home, where all had plenty, while he would soon die without food. He decided to return to his father, and ask for a servant’s place, for he knew he did not deserve to be treated as a son; he felt ashamed of all the wrong things he had done.

So he started for his father’s house; he must have been long on the way, since he had no money for travel. But while he was yet far from the house, his father saw him and hurried to meet him.

Did the father scold his son who had left so proudly to have his own way, and came back weary, hungry, and without money or suitable clothes? No, he was sorry for him, and put his arms around him and kissed him.

The son said, “Father, I have sinned against Heaven and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.” But he did not ask to be made a servant, for his kind father greeted him as a son, and called for the servants to bring him good clothes, even “the best robe,” and to put a ring on his finger, which was a gift of love, also a sign of a member of a certain family. The servants were told to prepare a feast, that all should rejoice over this son’s return.

There was an older brother who was not kind to forgive as the father; he was angry that this brother should be well treated and would not come in to feast with the rest, even though his father came to urge him. The father said, “It was meet (or, right) that we should make merry and be glad: for this thy brother... was lost and is found.”

It was not that the son deserved to be well treated, it was only because the father was loving and kind to do for him.

The Lord Jesus told this story to men who thought He should not show kindness to those they called “sinners.” They were like the older son in the story; those who were ashamed and sorry for sins, were like the younger son.

Have we not all been like that young man, wanting our own ways, and not valuing God’s blessings, until we reaze, as he did, that we will starve and die in our way? We do not deserve God to forgive, but what the Lord Jesus seemed to want all to know by this story was the wonderful forgivess of God, the Father, to one who will come to Him and say, “I have sinned.”

ML 08/12/1945

That Little Hand

Tell us a story, please, Uncle John, tell us a story!” And Uncle John said,

“He sent from above, He took me, He drew me out of many waters.” Psalms 18:1G.

The bright eyes of the children opened wide with wonder as he slowly spoke these words.

“What does he mean, Elsie?” whispered Jane to her cousin.

“We asked for a story, and you know he always has one ready.” “Well, we shall see.”

“This text,” said Uncle John, “always reminds me of something that happened when I was a little boy. I had a pleasant company of playmates, and we used to enjoy ourselves together, just as you children do now. Near to where we lived was a river, and a bridge across it. We often went there to play, and many times I have stood a long while trying to see the fish as they swam in the water below.

One day while we were playing on the bridge, one of our number, who had climbed on the railing, suddenly slipped, lost his hold and fell. We ran to the side of the bridge and looked over. The water had already closed over him, he had sunk so quickly, and bubbles were rising over him where he went down. We were too young to know what to do, and were too frightened even to call for help. The little fellow rose once more to the surface, struggling for life, but could only give us a look, when, with his arms uplifted for help, he sank again.

A kind man noticed our movements from a short distance, and fearing what had happened, hastened towards us. When he reached the bridge nothing was in sight but one little hand above the water. We had recovered our voices, and pointing at it, we eagerly called out, “There’s his hand! O, there’s his hand!”

That outstretched hand! I seem to see it now. I shall never forget how it looked to me. But the man did not wait a moment. As that hand went out of sight under the water, he plunged into the river and soon brought the drowning boy to the shore. He looked into the pale face of our playmate as he held him in his arms, and in a tone of voice that sent a thrill of joy through all our hearts, he said, “Saved!” Then turning to the rest of us, he added, “Boys, I know you will never forget that little sinking hand. Remember when it comes into your minds, that we are all sinking into a darker place than that river, unless we have trusted One to save us, who alone can do so. This boy will soon be well, and be able to tell that I took him out of the river.

“It is my prayer, that he and every one of you may be able to say of ather better Friend, when you think of the dark waters of sin, in which all who do not love Christ are sinking.

‘He sent from above, He took me, He drew me out of many waters.’”

“Dear little ones,” said Uncle John, “will you remember that little hand, and the lesson it taught us? Jesus is ready to take hold of those little hands of yours as you lift them up to Him, and allow Him to save you and to take you to dwell with Himself forever in His bright home.”

THOU WILT SHOW ME THE PATH OF LIFE: IN THY PRESENCE IS FULNESS OF JOY: AT THY RIGHT HAND THERE ARE PLEASURES FOREVERMORE.” Psalms 16:11.

ML 08/19/1945

The Boy With 14,000 Sins

Do you know how many sins you have?” I asked a boy, whom I knew, at the close of a Sunday afternoon service.

“No,” he replied, “I have never thought of it.”

“Well, suppose we try and find out. Do you think that you have committed three sins a day—one of thought, one of word, and one of deed?”

“O, I expect lots more than that,” he said.

“Well, then, we shall be quite safe in saying that you have committed three sins a day. How many is that for a year?”

He was not very quick at mental arithmetic, so I had to help him, and we discovered that he must have been guilty of more than one thousand sins a year.

“One thousand sins a year, Jimmy,” I said. “How many sins do you have?”

“Fourteen thousand,” he said, under his breath, and as the thought gripped him, it made him gasp.

“Jimmy,” I said, “that’s all I want to say to you today. Fourteen thousand sins, think of that!”

Jimmy told his chums, and they laughed; it was a rare joke, they thought, and Jimmy joined in the laughter. But when he got into bed that night, he did not laugh, for it seemed as though someone came close to him and whispered in his ear, “Fourteen thousand sins; Jimmy, think of that!” He bore it as long as he could, and at last he crept out of his bed in search of his father, and told him his trouble.

“I’ve got at least fourteen thousand sins,” he said, “and I do not know what to do with them.”

His father knew, and he told his boy of Christ Jesus, who came into the world to save sinners. He told him that though all are “like sheep that have gone astray,” and gone our own sinful way (Isa. 53:6), the Lord laid upon Jesus, the great, great Saviour, the sins of us all. He showed him from the pages of the Bible that,

“The Blood of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, cleanseth us from all sin” 1 John 1:7, and that God can say of all who come to the Lord Jesus Christ, and rest in His sacrifice,

“Their sins and iniquities I will rember no more.” Hebrews 10:17.

Jimmy saw it all, and believed it, and went back to his bed a relieved and happy boy. The following Thursday he met me with a smiling face, and said, “They are all gone, sir.”

“What are all gone?” I asked him.

“All the fourteen thousand sins,” he answered, and then he told me all about it. It was a happy day for him.

“He was wounded for our tranressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5.

ML 08/19/1945

The Bible

Most children are fond of reading; but how many care to read the Bible,—the Book of Books? Do not think, dear children, that the Bible is only for grown-up people to read. When little Samuel lived in the Temple, he read the Word of God; and Timothy also knew the Holy Scriptures from a child.

Some of you have doubtless read of Mary Jones, who walked fifty miles to buy a Bible for herself.

We trust you will read your Bible every day, to learn about the Lord Jesus Christ, His great love for you, and His work of redemption on the cross of Calvary, and how He longs to save you. Do put your trust in Him, accept Him as your own precious Saviour, and you will be His own dear child for all eternity.

The Bible! the Bible!

More precious than gold,

The hopes and the glories

Its pages unfold:

It speaks of a Saviour,

And tells of His love,

It shows us the way to

The mansions above.

The Bible! the Bible!

We hail it with joy;

Its truths and its glories

Our tongues shall employ;

We’ll sing of its triumphs,

We’ll tell of its worth,

And send the Glad Tidings

All over the earth.

ML 08/19/1945

Looking Ahead

Luke 16:1-18

The Lord Jesus told of a man who had charge of another man’s property, called a steward his master found he was not honest and said he could no longer be his steward, and must hand in his accounts. When the dishonest steward heard that, he planned another way to provide for himself, for he said he could not work, and was ashamed to beg. He hurriedly sent for the men who owed his master; one owed for oil, another for grain, and told them to write a much smaller amount for their debts.

That, too, was dishonest to his master, who would lose that part of his debts; and the men were wrong to agree to do so. But that was his plan to induce the men to favor him, and he thought they would give him a home in return.

The Lord Jesus did not commend the steward for his dishonest acts, but He said he was wiser to think and plan ahead than the “children of light” (those who believed God). The people of God know they cannot be in this world long, yet often they do not think ahead about Heaven, and use the things of this world only for their own comfort or pleasure.

Instead of that the Lord said to “make friends” with the “mammon” (the money, or gain, on earth), and they would be received into the eveasting Home. That meant if they used the money and things here for good, there would be rewards waiting them in Heaven.

The Lord also said, “No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one and love the other; or else he will hold to the one and despise the other: ye cannot serve God and mammon.”

The dishonest steward was trying to serve two persons, his master and himself, and he served himself much the better. Some of the men who heard the words of the Lord Jesus, had been using the things of God all for themselves, and wanting more. We read here that they “derided,” Jesus, or spoke against Him, which is very sad.

People who know God now are to be stewards, for the things on earth all belong to God, and should, be used in honor to Him. We are dishonest stewards if we use our homes, money, or other things only to suit ourselves.

Even boys and girls are “stewards,” they have strength, time, and perhaps sometimes money, to use. If all is used for “good times” and not to please the Lord, or to tell others of Him, they are like the steward who served himself but not his master.

Jesus spoke very plainly that all God’s words given before should prove true, He said, “It is easier for heaven and earth to pass away, than for one tittle of the law to fail.”

ML 08/19/1945

The Nightingale

The nightingale is a small bird which has a beautiful song in the night. God has made some birds to sing during the day, and others to sing during the night.

So also, the Lord gives His people songs in the night. This does not mean simply the literal night, but night, the time of darkness. This life is a period of darkness for the believers in the Lord Jesus, because He who is the Light of the world has been cast out.

The Lord loves us now with the same measure of love that caused Him to die in our place, and He cares for our needs each day. We have His Word, and the Holy Spirit to teach us about Him, and the hope of soon being with Him makes our hearts sing.

“SING UNTO THE LORD, BLESS HIS NAME; SHOW FORTH HIS SALVATION FROM DAY TO DAY.” Psalms 96:2.

ML 08/26/1945

The Shepherd's Sermon

Some years ago a shepherd was driving a flock of lambs through a village. Just as he was passing the first cottage, a young woman crossed the street to get water from the spring near by. As she stood at the well, she laughingly called to the shepherd,

“Would you not make me a present of one of these beautiful creatures? You have plenty of them.” The shepherd, who was a true Christian, replied, “These lambs don’t belong to me; therefore, I cannot give you one. But there is a Lamb—the Lamb of God—and you can have Him free.” John says,

“Behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world.” He spoke and passed on.

Thank God, the words uttered were pressed right into the heart of the young woman, to perform a work for God and the salvation of her never dying soul.

“There is a Saviour, and you can have Him free.”

What a word! Has it found its way into thy heart, my reader?

About a year after, our shepherd came with another flock of lambs on the same road. He had quite forgotten the short conversation with the young woman. When he reached the cottage, the young woman looked at him, immediately recognized him and stepped to the door.

“Here, man!” she cried, “that was a splendid word you gave me.”

“What word?” asked the shepherd. “Do you not remember passing by about a year ago?” she asked.

“Surely, but I don’t remember speaking to you.”

“But I remember, and I thank God for it. I asked you if you would not give me one of these beautiful lambs. You said the lambs did not belong to you, but there was a Lamb—the Lamb of God—that I could have free. At that time I knew nothing about the Lamb of God; but now I know Him, and know He has taken all my sins away.”

The shepherd now remembered the words he had spoken. His words proved themselves as “Words spoken in season,” and the Scripture says, “How good they are!”

With a joyful, thankful heart, he went his way astonished at the wonderful ways of God’s grace. How insignificant are often the means that God uses. All must work out to the praise of His glory.

My reader, is God’s Lamb not enough for you? Could you wish more? God has provided Himself a Lamb and that Lamb has been slain in your stead. The offering has been presented and accepted, yes, thank God, the empty cross, the empty grave, and the throne occupied above—all witness in earnest, solemn manner that God, through the work of Christ on the cross, has been glorified; that now every sinner can find peace and forgiveness through simple belief on Jesus Christ,—the Lamb of God. If you ask, “What must I do?” my answer is, “Nothing!”

Jesus has done everything. Believe on Him and thank God for “His unspeakable gift.” And then go and let your life adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things! (Titus 2:10.)

“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.” John 10:27,28.

ML 08/26/1945

My Sunday Text

He was only four years old, but he was an intelligent little fellow. Father and mother were very fond of him, and delighted in him and his loving ways. How he loved to go to the Sunday School, and say his text, and come back and tell what he had heard. There was always a special Sunday morning service for the young folks, and there he heard things explained simply about the Lord Jesus and God, so that he could easily understand. God’s Holy Spirit opened his young heart to receive simply the precious things of God’s salvation. Early this year the measles came to the place, and many of the children were taken ill, and obliged to keep away from school for fear of infection. Sin is like sickness that infects; and many children that love and give way to what is siul, infect and poison others. The only antidote or remedy against sin, is to know the Lord Jesus Christ as a Saour from it, for He shed His precious blood to make an atonement for sin, that whosoever believeth in Him should receive forgiveness of sins, and get a new nature and His Holy Spirit. Well, the dear little fellow got bad with the measles, and had to keep away from school. Mother watched him all the time, and nursed him so kindly, for she was very fond of her little boy. She got him all she could, and did everything she could think of for him. When the rash that comes out in measles had gone, there was hope that he would get well, but his throat had got bad and swollen. Then an abscess formed in his throat, whch made him very ill, and he got heavy and wandering. On Saturday evening, while mother was watching him, he roused up, and said, suddenly — “Mother, I know my Sunday text.” “Do you, dear?” she said, “say it to me, then.” “It’s, ‘Suffer little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.’” And then he lay back, so tired. That evening he fell asleep, and never woke again in this world. He had not to say his Sunday text in school, next day; but he had the joy of looking on the face of Him who first spoke those words, and who now had called this “little child unto Him.”

Father and mother felt so much their dear boy’s dying, yet their hearts were filled with great thankfulness to the precious Saviour who died on purpose to save sinners, and through whose precious blood their dear boy was redeemed and saved forever.

My dear young reader, how is it with you? Are you ready to die?

“Redeemed... with the precious blood of Christ.” 1 Peter 1:18,19.

“To be with Christ; which is far better.” Phil. 1:23.

ML 08/26/1945

The Shepherd's Missing Lamb

Far up among the hills a lamb had wandered from the flock and lost its way. As the shades of evening fell, the shepherd heard its piteous wail, and a fierce snow-storm began to fall, in which it must have perished. Taking his lamp, he ascended through the blinding snow, and lifting it from its place of danger, and brought it home. So does Jesus seek and save the lost.

“The Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10.

“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.

ML 08/26/1945

A Rich Man and a Beggar

Luke 16:19-31

This is another lesson told by the Lord Jesus: “There was a certain rich man which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously (feasted) every day; and there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores and desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table, yea, even the dogs came and licked his sores.”

The rich man had the very best food and clothing; purple was then worn only by the very wealthy, because of the expense of the dye, and he wore purple. He must often have seen the sick, helpless man lying at his gate waiting for any particles of food thrown away. But he seems never to have helped him, for the poor man was so uncared for that dogs were allowed to worry him.

After a time the sick beggar died; but notice who knew where he was lying: he “was carried by angels” to a place of rest. Someone buried his body, but his soul, which does not die, was taken to be with those who believed God, as Abraham (Gen. 15:6).

The rich man also died, and was buried, no doubt in a very grand tomb. But his soul was not at rest, for Jesus said, “He lifted up his eyes... in torments.” He had not believed God on earth or he would have been with Abraham. But he could see Abraham afar off and Lazarus with him, and he cried to Abraham, “Have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip his finger in water to cool my tongue.”

When the sick man lay at his gate, he had not helped him; after death he was the one to beg for aid. But Lazarus could not be sent. Abraham said that between them was a great gulf, or chasm, which none could cross.

Next the man asked for Lazarus to be sent to tell his brothers on earth, “lest they come to the place of toent.” Abraham answered that they had the words of Moses and the prhets to tell them. Yet the man begged that if they heard from one risen from the dead, they would believe. But Abraham said, “If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rose from the dead.”

Those are the last words of this leon in which the Lord Jesus taught so plainly, the necessity of believing the words of God while on earth. There was no hope of peace after death for one who had not believed those words on earth.

And their souls were not asleep, as some say, but conscious; the poor man who had believed, had comfort; the rich man who had not believed, had torment. Those “flames” were not as fire on earth, which can be put out, and show continuous suffering.

The words of God refresh the soul as water to one in fever, but none of God’s words could be given the man who had not cared for them on earth. The scriptures written by Moses and the prophets told the need of One to save from their sins, and gave promise of His coming: this the rich man neglected.

ML 08/26/1945

Answers to Bible Questions for June

“The Children’s Class”

1.“For if we,” etc.1 Thess. 4:14

2.“For this cause.” etc. 2:13

3.“We are,” etc. 2 Thess. 1:3

4.“That they,” etc. 2:12

5.“But ye,” etc. 3:13

6.“To the end,” etc. 1 Thess. 3:13

7.“Rejoice evermore.” 5:16

Bible Questions for September

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in James and 1 and 2 Peter

1.Write in full the verse with the words, “Let him not be ashamed.”

2.Write in full the verse with the words, “For what is your life?”

3.Write in full the verse with the words, “Preacher of righteousness.”

4.Write in full the verse with the words, “His own body on the tree.”

5.Write in full the verse with the words, “Word of the Lord endureth forever.”

6.Write in full the verse with the words, “Let him ask of God.”

7.Who was called “the Friend of God?”

Answers to Bible Questions for June

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Co-author of the two Epistles to Thessaloans 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:1.

2.In Greece. 1 Thessalonians 3:1.

3.In Macedonia. 1 Thessalonians 2:2.

4.Antichrist. 2 Thessalonians 2:8.

5.Another name for Greece. 1 Thessalonians 1:8.

6.Major province of Palestine. 1 Thessalonians 2:14.

7.The Devil. 2 Thessalonians 2:14.

Bible Questions for September

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in James and 1 and 2 Peter

1.What is said about holding grudges?

2.What does the Lord know how to do?

3.How are we to receive buffeting for our welldoing?

4.In what does pure religion consist?

5.What ornament in a woman is acceptable to God?

6.What is said of the friendship of the world?

7.From what should we abstain?

ML 09/02/1945

The Lord's Day

This is the day when Christ arose

So early from the dead,

Why should I keep my eyelids closed

And waste the hours in bed?

This is the day when Jesus broke

The power of death and hell;

And shall I still wear Satan’s yoke,

And love my sins so well?

Today with pleasure Christians meet

To pray and hear Thy Word,

And I would go with cheerful feet

To learn Thy Will, O Lord.

ML 09/02/1945

Annie's Dream

Annie Somers and Bessie Arundel were neighbors, but although they lived close to one another, attended the same school, and were of the same age, they were rarely seen together.

The fact was, Annie shunned Bessie because, to use her own expression, Bessie was one of the “goody-goody” sort—she always closed her eyes during prayers at school, and reproved Annie when she made fun with another schoolmate over a verse in the Bible, in her hearing; and once when they did walk home together from school, she had asked her if her sins were forgiven and she were ready to go to heaven!

Annie was so indignant, muttering something inaudible, she quickly ran up the path indoors, declaring to herself she would have nothing more to do with Bessie.

A few weeks later she had a dream in her dream she found herself before the pearly gates of heaven. She knocked for admittance, and slowly the gates opened, disclosing the dazzling glories within, with a great throng all wearing white robes, and one of many angels came to her and said, “Who are you and what is your name?”

For once in her life Annie felt afraid; somehow she knew she had no right there, the angel looked so beautiful and so pure in a spotless robe.

“I’m Annie Somers,” she faltered.

“Annie Somers,” repeated the angel after her, and then added, “we do not know you.”

And slowly the beautiful gates closed again, and Annie was left outside.

Then in her dream she saw Bessie Arundel go up to the pearly gates and knock timidly. Again the gates parted, again the glory shone forth, and the beautiful angel bent down and asked the same question.

“I’m Bessie Arundel; Jesus is my Saviour,” was her reply.

“Come,” said the angel, and taking Bessie by the hand, he drew her in, and as the gates closed, Annie saw her dippearing up the golden street, the angel leading her to Jesus.

She wakened to find it was a dream, but God had spoken to her through it, and not long Afterward she could say Jesus was her Saviour.

She and Bessie became fast friends, and helped one another to serve their Lord.

What about you, dear reader, is He your Saviour, too? Is your name written in the Book of Life? If so, He has prepared a place for you, and one day the pearly gates will open, and He will receive you unto Himself, but “There shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth.” Revelation 21:27.

“I go to prepare a place for you, and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:2,3.

ML 09/02/1945

Tasting

Would you like to taste my ice cream?” Sport was asked by his little master, and it wasn’t long till he sampled it for himself, as you can see.

One is reminded of the exclamation in Psalms 34:8.

“O, TASTE AND SEE THAT THE LORD IS GOOD, BLESSED IS THE MAN THAT TRUSTETH IN HIM.” Psalms 34:8.

As the puppy tasted the ice cream offered to him, so you must “taste” for yourself to know a little of “the love of Christ that passeth knowledge.” Ephesians 3:17.

His love for you was so great that He came down to this world to shed His precious blood that you might be cleansed, and made fit to go to be with Him in His bright home above. His Word says,

“All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23.

And so you must come to Him, owng your sins, and believing that, “Out of pity Jesus said, I’ll bear the punishment instead.”

He is waiting with open arms to receive you, for He loves you so much and longs to make you happy—as our verse says, “Blessed (or happy) is the man that trusteth in Him.”

When the puppy tasted the ice cream, probably he would not be satisfied with ONE bite, and so the one who trusts Jesus, and has “tasted that the Lord is gracious” (1 Peter 2:3), longs to know more of the One Who died for him.

“HOW SWEET ARE THY WORDS TO MY TASTE, YEA SWEETER THAN HONEY TO MY MOUTH.” Psalms 119:103.

ML 09/02/1945

Warnings of the Lord Jesus

Luke 17:1-4

The Lord Jesus was exceedingly kind, so people woered at His words of grace (Luke 4:22). When He spoke of “woe” or punishment and sorrow for them, it was to warn them that they should remember His words and not do or say wrong things.

He said that offenses (wrongs to others) would be done, for He knew they had hearts ready to sin. But He said “Woe” to the one who did wrong, speaking especially of wrong to a child, one innocent and helpless to keep itself from harm. He said, “It were better for him that a milestone were hanged about his neck, and he be cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.”

Millstones were large flat stones, used one upon another, to grind grain for their bread. Such a heavy stone fastened to a man would, of course, cause him to sink and drown in the sea. So the Lord meant it was better for a man to die, than to do wrong to a little child.

This is such a serious warning, it seems meant for ones who know their acts to be wrong. But it warns us all against every wrong act or wrong word to little ones, and shows how much the Lord cares how they are treated. Their little minds are ready to believe whatever is told them, they do not know the right from the wrong; that is why, so serious to do them a wrong.

One of the great wrongs to children is to tell them what is not true. Sometimes older brothers and sisters make promises or tell false words to younger ones, thinking “it does not matter” what they say to them, because they do not understand: sometimes they frighn them by what is not true at all, and say, “It was just for fun.”

Some little ones are taught to say God’s name without respect, and are kept from hearing of His love or of His words in the Bible, and they grow up without trust in God or in Christ, who died for them.

Jesus knew that even the disciples who had seen His kind ways would sometimes do or speak wrong things to each other, and He said, “Take heed to yourselves,” which meant to be careful how they treated each other: He called them “brothers,” as though one family: “If thy brother trespass (do a wrong) against thee, rebuke him (tell him the wrong); and if he repent (is sorry), forgive him.”

To forgive means to pardon the wrong, not to hold it in the heart against the other. We might think once in a day enough to forgive, but Jesus said,

“If he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, ‘I repent,’ thou shalt forgive him.”

So the Lord meant to forgive over and over.

Do you suppose these words were only for the disciples, or do we all now need to forgive and to be forgiven? It is not, too hard to say, “I repent,” or “I forgive” if we think of the Lord’s words.

ML 09/02/1945

Be Kind to All

This is a beautiful country scene, with the road winding through the woods, and the happy-faced children at the big gate. What do you think they are doing? The oldest child is going through the motion of making a salute. They see some one coming, and have kindly opened the gate, so this person or persons may pass through without any trouble.

The Lord is pleased when you show respect to others, especially older people; and He wishes you to show kiness to all.

When we realize how much the Lord has done for us on Calvary’s cross in bearing the judgment that we deserved for our sins, and is still caring for us each day when we are so cold and unfaithful to Him, and will soon come to take us to be in the glory with Himself for all eternity, then we are happy in serving ohers, and thinking of their needs.

“AS WE HAVE THEREFORE OPPOUNITY, LET US DO GOOD UNTO ALL” Galatians 6:10.

ML 09/09/1945

The Child That Died

Where is he now? He, is yet living somewhere, but where? Is he now in heaven?

I know a father who is a professed Christian. He had one child that he loved more than the rest, and that child died. And now, though years have passed, the thought of that lost child is a source of bitter anguish to that father’s heart. He fears his boy is not in heaven. He remembers his child was a sinner, but he does not remember that he ever repented. He knows that business kept him from teaching his boy the way to heaven and God. He cries,

“O, that I could believe otherwise. My boy! O, my boy! Is my child in heaven?”

That father neglected the soul of his boy, that he might heap up gold for him; but the boy is gone, and now the father would gladly give all his gold, could he bring him back for one week, but it is too late now.

O, that those parents who are string so earnestly for the present welfare of their children, and are so careless about their eternal good, could look on the anguish of this father.

To him the thought of meeting that neglected child in the judgment is agony; and would not the same thought cause others like pain had they as clear a view of a lost soul as he?

“Thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” Deuteronomy 6:7.

ML 09/09/1945

The Text That Mabel Found in the Bible

A young girl sat with a big Family Bible open before her on the table. Her parents were out at the Service in one of the village churches, and she was occupying that quiet hour of the Sunday evening, searching for texts in connection with her Bible Class Lesson of that afternoon. The teacher had asked each of the members to write out, in their own words, a simple essay on “Eternal Life,” and bring it the following Lord’s Day. Mabel was reckoned to be a well-informed girl and well up in Bible knowledge.

Her parents were pious people, and the Bible was read in their home. But so far as having in personal possession “the free gift of God, which is Eternal Life” (Rom. 6:23), and living in the daily enjoyment of it, they seem to have not only been in ignorance of, but in opposition to it. They had been taught that “a good hope” is all that any can have here, and that the “day of judgment” will tell who are “worthy to be in heaven,” and who are lacking. Alas! for those who have no better ground for their hope of heaven than their own “worthiness.”

When Mabel’s parents returned, she told them of her search for texts, and said, “I found one that I never saw in the Bible before. It was this,

“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).

But I don’t know what to say about it, for I do not ‘know’ that I HAVE that eternal life, and this verse says that those that believe ‘may know that they HAVE it.’”

Mabel’s parents were manifestly pelexed at that saying. They had never noticed that verse in the Book, or like many, never really believed what it says. Mabel asked a schoolmate during the week what she was writing about it, to which the answer was given,

“I am saying that Eternal Life is God’s free gift unto all, and that all who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ have it and know they have it, because God’s Word says so. And I am going to add ‘I have it, and have had it, since last New Year’s Day.’”

That last statement caused Mabel to ask her schoolmate how she got it, and the grand result was that Mabel became one who “received” Christ, as John 1:12 puts it, and in Him she now has “eternal life” (Rom. 6:23).

“As many as received Him (the Lord Jesus Christ), to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His Name.” John 1:12.

ML 09/09/1945

The Rich Man and the Poor Man

The father was an earnest Christian. The son was a nice young fellow, but not a true Christian.

“I’ll take him to K., and probably there he will become a Christian.” He went, heard a number of preachers, but remained unaffected.

One morning, taking a stroll before breakfast, he came across a poor man in one of the lovely country roads.

Kindness of heart prompted him to offer the poor man some money.

“No, thank you,” replied the man. “I am rich beyond worlds.”

“Indeed.”

“Yes, I have Christ as my Saviour, Friend, and Hope.”

“Tell me more,” replied the youth; and what he did not find in crowds and great meetings he found in the country lane.

“Peace in believing” Romans 15:13.

He found the Lord Jesus as his Saviour, Master, and Lord, and went on his way rejoicing.

Whether your parents are poor or wealthy—Have you found the treasure untold in our blessed Lord? Is He YOURS? If so, all is well now and forever more.

“Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again accorng to the Scriptures.” 1 Cor. 15:3,4.

Now from the glory, He says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

ML 09/09/1945

Jessie and Her Grandmother

“Grandma” said little Jessie, “I love Jesus now.” Was not that a sweet confession from a little girl of five years old? How pleased grandma was to hear her little granddaughter had thus so early learned to know and love Jesus as her own Saviour.

Jessie was on a visit to her grandmother, and how pleased she was to speak about Jesus, and to have the sweet Bible stories read to her.

Shall I tell you the picture she liked best to look at? It was the one of Zaccheus up in the sycamore tree, waiting to see Jesus as He passed by. And when Jessie was praying, before being put to bed, she always asked the Lord to make her lite Zaccheus.

Dear little ssie wanted to see and know Jesus, as Zaccheus did.

Can you, dear children, say as she could,

“I love Jesus?”

If you cannot, don’t wait any longer, but come to Him now. He is lovingly calling each little one. Jessie came. Will you not come also?

“We love Him, because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19.

ML 09/09/1945

To Move a Tree

Luke 17:5-10

While Jesus was talking with the disciples they seem to have been near a sycamine tree, a fruit tree which grows in warm lands, and sometimes a large tree.

The disciples had seen many acts showing the power of God, but seem to have felt they had little faith to trust what He could do for them. They said to Jesus, “Lord, increase our faith.” His answer to their request was, “If ye had faith, as a grain of muard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.”

For a tree to come up from the roots and plant itself in the sea, by their speaking to it, was impossible for them to do of themselves; they could not move even a small bush by speaking to it.

Jesus was teaching them by this, that they did not need great faith, God would do for them if they had only a little faith. A mustard seed is a very tiny seed, and however little faith they had, God would do for them what was impossible for them to do of themselves. It was not their faith that would do great things, but God.

They would not ask for great and impossible things to see miracles, but whatever their need, and however impossible for them to do anything, they could trust God’s wisdom, and they were to ask for what would be for His praise, not simply to please themselves.

It is not told that the disciples ever asked God for a tree to be moved, but many things are written of what He did for them, as impossible for them to have done themselves as to move a tree into the sea.

Not very long after this, when the Lord Jesus was returned to Heaven, one of the disciples, Peter, told a man who had never walked in all his life, to rise up and walk, and the man rose and walked. It was not because of Peter’s power, but because he believed God’s power.

There was another man who had been paralized, and could not move from his bed for eight years; Peter spoke to him to rise and he rose up.

One day Peter was called to come to a house where a woman had died and was ready for burial. Peter said to her, “Arise,” and took her hand, and she arose and stood among her friends again.

Once God sent an angel to open the prison doors, and let Peter and other disciples free. Another time Peter had been put in the inner room of a prison, his hands chained to two soldiers, so he could do nothing for himself. But the others in the city who believed God, prayed for Peter, and God sent an angel to that inner prison room, who told Peter to rise; the chains fell off his hands, and he followed the angel out of the prison, being free again to tell people of the Lord.

Many, many things have been done since for those who trusted God, more than we could tell, or know now. His people may never have much faith, yet He does impossible things for them, not always seen or known by others.

See Acts 3:1-10; 4:22; 5:19; 9:34,40; 12:7.

ML 09/09/1945

The Broken Chord

The banjo seems dangerously near the playful paws of two beautiful kittens. Perhaps they have already snapped one string, and now the banjo will not make good music for its master.

Although we may not have musical instruments, every one who loves the Lord Jesus may make music in his heart; and the Lord delights to hear the songs of praise coming from the lips and hearts of His children.

“I will sing of Thy power; yea, I will sing aloud of Thy mercy in the morning.” Psalms 59:16.

“I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live.” Psalms 104:33.

“Be filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.” Ephesians 5:18,19.

Let us who are saved, with God’s help, keep our communion with Him unbroken, so that the melody He loves to hear, may be always rising from our hearts.

Will each one who reads this little paper be among the number who will sing this song after the Lord descends in the air to take His redeemed ones to be with Himself?

“Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for Thou hast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by Thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.” Revelation 5:9.

May every reader be under the shelter of that precious blood, and may the thought of God’s wonderful love cause you to be always making melody in your heart to the Lord.

“O SING UNTO THE LORD A NEW SONG: FOR HE HATH DONE MARVELOUS THINGS.” Psalms 98:1.

ML 09/16/1945

Heavenly Mansion

A New Zealand chief, remarkable for the deep spirituality of his mind and his constant delight in the Word of God, visited here a few years ago. One day he was taken to see a beautiful mansion. The gentleman who took him expected to find him greatly astonished, and much charmed with its magnificence and splendor, but it seemed, to his surprise, to excite little or no admiration in his mind. Wondering how this could be, he began to point out to him its grandeur, the beauty of the costly furniture —brought from all parts of the world—the view from the windows, etc. Tamana heard all silently; then looking round upon the walls, replied, “Ah my Father’s house finer than this.”

“Your father’s house,” thought the gentleman, who knew his father’s home was but a poor mud cottage. But Tamahana went on, “My Father’s house finer than this:” and began to speak, in his own expressive, touching strain, of the house above—the house of “many mansions” —the eternal home of the redeemed. John 14.

ML 09/16/1945

Jesus Is Not Dead Now

Dr. P. tells how a little girl came to him after the close of an evangelistic service. Nearly every one had gone, and the lights were being put out. The evangelist noticed that the child was following him around. At last he said: “Little girl, what do you want; why have you not gone home with the rest of the folk?”

As she turned to him he saw that her clothing was ragged, her feet bare, her hair tangled and hanging loosely, nd her face was none too clean. Altogether she was a forlorn-looking little creature, probably about twelve years old. She stood up on her bare toes, and whispered into his ear,

“Mister, I want to be saved.”

Surprised and startled at the intensity of the child’s tone, he scrutinized her narrowly and questioned her more closely.

“So you want to be saved? And why do you want to be saved?” Again the child raised herself on her toes and whispered, “Because I am a sinner.”

“Who told you you are a sinner?” asked the evangelist.

“God says so in His Book—and—I feel it here,” laying her little dirty hand over her bosom.

“Well,” asked the evangelist, “do you think I can save you?”

A sudden change came over her, and drawing away, she did not whisper this time, but her words rang out short and clear, “No, Mister, you can’t save me. No man can save a sinner!”

Then drawing the little inquirer beside him on the seat near, the preacher took her little hands in his own, and in a kind tone said, “You are quite right, dear little soul, no man can save you. Tell me, why did you come to me? Who can save you?”

Again her voice dropped almost to a whisper, and with infinite pathos in her words she replied, “Jesus, Mister; He can save me.”

“Ah, yes, my dear,” said her questioner, “Jesus can save you. But tell me how He is going to do it?”

Again the little lips lifted to his ear, and her eyes filled, as she eagerly answered, “O, Mister, He died for me.”

Some curiosity prompted the evangelist in putting the next question, “Then He is dead, is He? How can He save you if He is dead?” The child sprang from her seat and her eyes now flashed. Again her voice rang aloud, “He’s not dead. He’s not dead now! He died for me, but He’s not a dead man. He’s God’s Son, Mister. Didn’t you sat that this very night in your sermon, that God raised Him from the dead? No, He’s not dead now.”

Her voice dropped again, and once more came the pathetic words, “O, Mister, I want to be saved.”

The child had grasped the truth with a clearness seldom seen. She left happy and rejoicing, having learned that by simple faith she was saved by trusting in the finished work of the risen Christ.

“How that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriures.” 1 Corinthians 15:3,4.

ML 09/16/1945

"I'll Trust Him."

F. became exercised about his soul. He had been taught that those who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ are saved. He thought he believed in Him as much as anybody could believe, but he couldn’t feel that he was saved. As he reasoned in his mind about it, he thought he was not a true believer, or he did not believe in the right way, and he began to fear he was, perhaps, a hypocrite—trying to think himself a Christian, when he was not one at all.

The more he thought about these things, the more troubled he became, and doubts and uncertainties filled his mind.

The thought of death came before him and filled him with fear; but a dread even stronger than this, came before him; the Lord might come at any moment, and he was not ready to go with Him. When he would lie down at night, he feared to go to sleep, lest the Lord would come in the silent watches of the night to take His people Home, and he would be left behind. One day F., who was a farmer boy, was out in the field shocking grain. He got some distance in advance of the binder and lay down on the ground a few minutes to wait until it would oveake him. While lying there his thoughts were occupied with the queion that had been absorbing him so long.

“O, why can I not know that I am saved? God says in His word, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.’ “I do believe. I believe as much as anybody can.”

‘Believe!’ “It is God’s word, and God is true—I’ll trust Him.”

With this thought light came into his soul. He took Christ at His, word, he trusted Him, and he was saved.

How many of my dear little readers are ready thus to take God at His word, and “trust Him?”

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

“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.

“Who was delivered for our offenses, and was raised again for our justificion.” Romans 4:25.

“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.

ML 09/16/1945

The Lepers Cured

Luke 17:11-19

While the Lord Jesus was on His way through a village, some lepers saw Him; they did not come close, for that is so dreadful a disease, that persons who have it must live and keep away from others. But these lepers had heard of Jesus’ power to cure, and they called to Him, “Master, have mercy on us and heal us.”

Jesus’ answer was to go show theelves to the priests. To do that, they had to go to the temple in Jerusalem, and they may have been quite a distance from it. The men obeyed the coand of Jesus, evidently expecting to be cured there, as it was no use to go to the priests unless they had hope of a cure first.

But the priests could not cure, though it was their duty by the law to Israel to examine one who had any spots of leprosy, and if they found him cured, to make special offerings.

All at once as the lepers went, they found they were already cured; the word of the Lord Jesus had made them well. One of the men, realizing he was cured, turned back and spoke loudly in praise to God; then he came back to Jesus and threw himself down at His feet in wonder and gratitude for this sudden blessing.

We would suppose all the men would return to thank the Lord Jesus; they could not doubt the great miracle, since leprosy is a disease of the skin and flesh, and all could see the others were healed as himself. Yet only one man came to thank the Lord Jesus, the rest went on.

The man who came back was from the country of Samaria, where the people did not truly honor God, nor worship Him at Jerusalem as He had said. Yet the Lord Jesus healed him the same as the others, and he was the most grateful.

If the other men went on to Jerusalem, the priests would examine them in an outside place, and finding them cured, would sacrifice as the law directed. Two live birds, which could be sparrows, must be brought for each man: one bird to be killed, held over a dish of water; the other bird to be dipped in the blood of the dead bird.

Then the priest would sprinkle some of the blood seven times on the man, and declare him clean of the leprosy. Then the live bird was let free to fly away.

This awful disease, which spread and none could cure, teaches us of what is worse than this disease, it is sin, which grows worse and effects others as well as ourselves, and we cannot stop or cure.

The little bird killed, taught of One to come from Heaven to die for siers; He arose and returned to Heaven, as the little bird which had been dipped in the blood of death, was let fly away.

While on earth that One, the Lord Jesus, cured the lepers by His word, but He must shed His blood in death to make sinners fit for God. He had power to make many lepers well as quickly as that one, so He has power now to save all sinners who confess their need of Him.

ML 09/16/1945

Lord Over All

See the men out in the boats, driving the cattle ashore. One of the animals is high up on a rock, and looks as though he is bellowing to the others to follow him. I suspect the men we see own these cattle, and live near by.

“Every beast of the forest is Mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills.” Psalms 50:10.

It is God who says this in His prious book, the Bible. Please think of this the next time you pass these animals as they are feeding on the beautiful slopes. Every one of them belongs to the Lord. He has an eye over all, and cares for each of them.

Let it lead out your heart and thoughts to Him, for you, too, are one of His creatures. The Lord is watching over you, and caring for you every day.

How does it make you feel, to know His eyes are always upon you? You, no doubt, remember the short sentence, “Thou God seest me.” Genesis 16:13.

If you do not know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, it must make you uomfortable to know that He sees all you do and say, and it grieves Him that you care nothing for Him.

I do beg of you to remember that He does care for you, and wants you to be saved. He is longing to give you true happiness through the Lord Jesus Christ. Accept Him as your own loving Saviour.

It is a joy to those who are saved, to know the Lord is with them and watcng over them. It makes a Christian very happy to know that He says,

“Lo, I am with you always.” Matthew 28:20.

“I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Hebrews 13:5.

“THE WAYS OF MAN ARE BEFORE THE EYES OF THE LORD.” Proverbs 5:21.

ML 09/23/1945

Waiting for the Answer

A mother lay, to all human appearance, in a dying state. The doctor had retired to an adjoining room, with an attendant, and uttered these words, “I have done all I can now.” The eldest child (quite young) was standing near, and heard the terrible remark; bursting into tears, she said, “Doctor, you say you have done all you can—NOT ALL! you can join me in asking God to make mother well.” To this request the doctor did not yield; so the child fell upon her knees, and simply asked, “O Lord, please do make mother better, doctor has done all he can, but, Thou, O Lord, art the Good Physician, Thou canst make her well; we cannot spare mother, dear Lord, do make her well, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.”

As the child, after repeating her petition, still remained kneeling, the door said to the nurse, “Take the child away, she is mad!”

“Not mad, doctor,” exclaimed the child, raising her head to reply; “not mad—waiting for the answer.”

Her childish prayer was offered in faith, and she kneeled still “waiting for the answer.” It came very quickly, for upon the mother’s face there rested a calm and peaceful look, and a quiet sleep followed.

Awakening after a few hours refreshing rest, the loving daughter asked, “Mother, are you better?”

“Yes, dear,” she said, “I am certainly better.”

“I knew you would be better, mother, I have been asking God to make you better, and I have been waiting for the answer to my prayer; He has given it to me, and now I know He will make you well.”

The mother was restored, and is living today, a witness of the Lord’s power over disease and death, His love and faithfulness in answering believing prayer.

Dear reader, do you “wait for the answer” to your prayers? God does not answer all prayers so quickly as the one of which I have written, but the answer will come to each petition in His time, and in His way.

May this simple, true story teach us each “always to pray and not to faint,” but be “waiting” always also “for the answer,” it will surely come, for Jesus’ sake.

“If we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us.” 1 John 5:14.

ML 09/23/1945

Christ Died for You

I am very glad to write a few lines to Boys and Girls. I was a very small boy indeed when God first spoke to me. Many a night I used to lie awake troubled to think how long Eternity was; that after this life there was another, that never, never ended.

At times I used to cry out in alarm, “Mother! mother!” and then I would hear my dear, faithful mother come running up to my bedside; but when my mother reached me, I would be ashamed to tell her the trouble of my heart, and so I would feign to be asleep, and I would feel her look and hear her say, “O, dear child, he is talking in his sleep,” and go away.

I feel sure there are many such experiences in which Christ comes seeing you in early years, but the devil hinders you, and you say “by and by” to Jesus. O, how often I have felt sorry I did not then tell my mother all!

I lost years of the joy of knowing and serving Christ, and became very careless about my soul. I left home, and actually left off praying, left off reading the Bible, and more or less left off hearing the Gospel preached. O, how near I was to destruction.

But God did not leave off seeking me, for I went into an office where there was much ungodliness, but my parents’ letters followed me, and their advice, etc., kept me from running wild. My dear brother was saved and he often spoke to me. A text he gave me was mightily blessed to my soul. It was, “Christ died for your sins.”

Christ Died for Me

“Don’t you know,” he said, “Christ died for you?” Romans 5:8.

I had heard it hundreds of times, but it seemed as if a great light shone into my heart, and I said, “Well, if Christ died for me, there is no need for me to die.”

Afterward I opened the Bible, and the glorious words so full of certainty met my gaze, “He that seeketh findeth.” Matthew 7:8. I sought Christ, and I found Him.

Alone in my bedroom at midnight I fell down on my knees in the darkness. I yielded to Christ. I gave in, I came to Christ, and He did all the rest. He received, He cleansed, He forgave, and He has kept me ever since. Blessed be His Name, He did it all.

“I heard the voice of Jesus say,

‘Come unto Me and rest;

Lay down, thou weary one, lay down

Thy head upon My breast.”

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.”

I have been several years serving my Master, and even now at this moment my heart is bubbling up with joy as I think of what a Saviour I have found and what a faithful God.

If you have not already “Come to Jesus,” come as you are, and. He will receive you, save you, keep you all the days of your life, and bring you safe to Heaven at last. What a wonderful Saviour. Trust Him now. If you neect or reject His love, you will regret it to all Eternity. Haste to the Lord Jesus and be saved now.

“Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him.” Psalms 2:12.

ML 09/23/1945

He Knows, and Sees, and Hears

Little children, do you know,

Day by day as on you go,

God can hear whate’er you say

While at school, at work, or play?

Every action good or bad,

Every thought you’ve ever had;

All are written in His book,

Will your record bear His look?

For He knows, and sees, and hears,

His are opened eyes and ears;

In His book what shall it be,

Written there for Him to see?

Will good deeds then meet His eye?

Will your words the truth deny?

Has your walk been lowest ground?

Have your thoughts impure been found?

Since your heart is black within,

And by nature full of sin;

You are lost, but God can make,

Black hearts white for Jesus’ sake.

Jesus left His home on high,

Came to Calvary’s cross to die;

Shed His blood, at such a cost,

Came to seek and save the lost.

ML 09/23/1945

Like the Days of Noah

Luke 17:20-27

The men who talked with the Lord Jesus knew the writings, now called the New Testament, which tell of a time for Christ’s rule to be over the earth. But many did not believe Jesus the Messiah and King, although He had spoken the words of wisdom and done the miracles told of the Holy One, as Zechariah 14:9; Isaiah 61:1.

Yet those men wanted Jesus to tell them the time for His rule to begin. He told them God’s Kingdom would not be with the display, as they expected, and they need not be looking for the King; He said, “Behold, the Kingdom of God is within you,” within their midst, for He, the King, stood with them. Still they did not believe Him.

Afterward, Jesus told the disciples that when He, “the Son of man,” came to rule, His coming would be “as lighing,” which goes instantly across the whole sky, and seen by all. His words show that His coming will be a time of judgment for all them who do not believe God. And the people who will live then, will be like the people long ago who did not believe God would send the flood over the earth. Jesus said, “As it was in the days of Noe (Noah), so shall it be in the days of the Son of man: they ate, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, till the day Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all.”

Noah was the only man not doing wickedly when God said He must send the flood on the earth. God told him to prepare the great ship, called “the ark,” because ark means a safe place. Noah did not doubt God’s words, but began to build the big ship, which was large enough to hold many people, and he told them of the flood.

People of that time lived many years longer than now, and they had a long time to decide. But they did not believe God’s words about a flood, and kept on their plans the same as before, and did not prepare to go in the ark.

But on the day God had set, the rain began and the springs were opened, and soon the dry land was covered. Then people knew the flood had come. But it was too late to enter the safe place, for Noah could not let them in. God had shut the door.

Some now say the flood is “just a story,” but the disciples did not doubt it a real event. Peter wrote that ‘Noah was a preacher of righteousness,’ what was right for God; and he wrote that God was “long suffering, waiting’ for those people to believe (1 Pet. 3:20; 2 Pet. 2:5).

The Lord Jesus knew the flood was true, He said, “The flood came and destroyed then all.” He is now the Ark of safety fron God’s judgment, which must someday be on all wickedness.

God is “long suffering” now, wait ing for people to believe His word am be safe in Christ; “He is not willing does not desire, that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9.

“He hath appointed a day in whicl He will judge the world in righteousness.” Acts 17:31.

ML 09/23/1945

No Waste

When from the cloth the crumbs are taken,

They should upon the ground be shaken,

The little birds to feed.

This work may by a child be done,

Whose willing feet should always run

To serve in case of need.

It is not well even crumbs to waste,

Since birdies like to pick and taste

Wherever crumbs are found;

And boy or girl at open door,

With hearts aglow for birdies dear,

Can throw them on the ground.

In God’s own Word we all may see

That wastefulness can never be

As right or proper viewed:

Divine example there we find,

When Christ the Lord, so true and kind,

Had fed a multitude.

The scanty meal of fish and bread,

By His creative power was made

Enough to feed a host;

And yet He gave this order plain

“Gather the fragments that remain,

That nothing may be lost.”

Then, little reader, careful be,

For pleasant ‘tis a child to see

Of thoughtful deeds and words;

And when, as in a house well kept,

The crumbs are from the table swept,

Think of the little birds.

“ARE NOT FIVE SPARROWS SOLD FOR TWO FARTHINGS, AND NOT ONE OF THEM IS FORGTTEN BEFORE GOD?” Luke 12:6.

ML 09/30/1945

Thorns in the Pillow

Mabel’s mother used to sometimes tell her, when she was disobedient during the day, that the remerance of her naughty doings would be “a thorn in her pillow” at night. But Mabel was too young at first to understand the meaning of “a thorn in her pillow.”

When she grew a little older, she went to visit her grandmother. It was so jolly all day to be out in the fields, chasing the butterflies, and gathering posies. But night came, and Mabel was put to bed. Her grandmother peeped in to see her before she retired, and found the child asleep, with a tear on her cheek. Next morning when Mabel got up, her grandmother said,

“I fear my little girl was home-sick last night, after she went to bed, for I saw a tear on her pretty cheek.”

“O, no, grandmother dear, it was not that.”

“What was it then?”

Mabel hung her head. There was something causing her to be uneasy, and she was unwilling to let it be known. At last, clasping her arms around her grandmother’s neck, she burst into tears, and said, “There was a thorn in my pillow last night, grandmother; for, as I lay awake, thinking of my dear mother far away, I remembered how disobedient I had been to her, and she so kind and I was very unhappy.”

There are many little boys and girls like Mabel. They do not think of the wrong of disobeying their parents and sinning against God, until they are far away from them; then it becomes a thorn in their pillow; they wish they had not done so. They pay little heed to the loving words of their teachers in the Sunday School; but, one day, far away on some distant shore, they wish they could just hear their voices once more.

And thus it will be with souls in eternity who have despised the gospel, and rejected Christ. There will be “a thorn in the pillow” of every Christless one in hell. Remorse will lay hold in relentless power on every despiser of the love of God. Memory will bring the past to mind. The slighted oppounities of salvation: the stifled convictions: the quenched anxieties.

O, my dear young friend, do not fill up your pillow thus with thorns. Depend on it, your sins will prick your conscience sooner or later, in time or in eternity.

Do not slight the Son of God, or despise His love any longer. This will be the sharpest thorn in hell. A slighted Christ—a despised salvation.

“Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Matthew 22:13.

ML 09/30/1945

How God Saved a Little Girl

A little girl whom I knew was one of the brightest I have met. Look at her happy face, then hear the story of how she passed from darkness to light, from death to life.

One Sunday night, at the close of a Gospel meeting, a servant of the Lord said,

“If any one goes out of this meeting unsaved, he or she will be trampling the Lord Jesus under his or her feet.”

As I was passing out of the hall door I thought to myself, what a terrible thing it was to trample Jesus under my feet!

Two weeks after I was very much troubled about my soul, but did not wish any one to know it. I did not go to the meeting that night, and to put away the thought of eternity, I began to play. For the time being I forgot the fact that I had to die and pass into eternity to meet a holy God; but when bedtime came I was deeply troubled again, and began to wonder how I could be saved.

As I lay awake—for I could not sleep —I heard father and mother talking in the next room about the Lord’s Coming. Father said,

“Well, I wish the Lord would come before morning.” When I heard this I cried,

“O, mother, if Jesus comes before morning I won’t go with Him to Heaven.” Father answered, and said,

“It is your own fault, because you won’t receive Jesus as your Saviour.”

Mother brought me a Bible. I opened it and read the 5th chapter of Romans, but the light did not come from that. Then I turned to John 3:16, and read it thus, “For God so loved (name in), that He gave His only begotten Son, that if (name in) believeth on Him”—I stopped here and asked mother what that word “believeth” meant, and she replied,

“If I said I would give you a cent you would take me at my word, would you not?”

“Yes.”

“Well, she said, “the Lord Jesus offers you the gift of eternal life; don’t you think He’ll give it to you?”

At that moment I grasped the truth, that the Lord Jesus died that I might have eternal life; and could finish the glorious verse, “that if (name in) believeth in Him (name in) shall not perish, but (name in) shall have Everlasting Life.”

Now I am satisfied with the Lord Jesus, and happy in the knowledge that my sins are all forgiven, and undetand the meaning of,

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

Surely if this little girl was saved by the Lord Jesus Christ, any other girl or boy may be the same.

“All have sinned and come short of the glory of God,” shows our lost condition before God, but the next is

“Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus;.. That He might be just, and the justifier of him that believeth in Jesus.” Romans 3:23,24,26.

Put your name in John 3:16, and you may say, as she said,

“I am happy in knowing that my sins are all forgiven.”

Will you accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour, and will you do so NOW?

ML 09/30/1945

Little Children Come to Me

Jesus said, “Suffer little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for, of such is the kingdom of God.” Luke 18:16.

Hark! the Saviour’s voice is calling,

Little children, come to Me,

Peace and pardon now I offer,

All are welcome, all is free!

Naught to pay, for JESUS paid it

With His blood on Calvary’s Cross;

Naught to do for JESUS did it—

Suffered all your shame and loss.

Naught to fear, for JESUS says it—

All that trust in Me shall live,

In the palace of My glory

Everlasting joy shall have.

ML 09/30/1945

Like the Days of Lot

Luke 17:28-37

Lot was a man who lived several hundred years after the great flood, in a city near the Jordon River. That valley was well watered and beautiful, so no doubt the city was pleasant. But the people had become as wicked as the people before the flood.

Lot believed God, but had chosen to live in the wicked city to be near good lands for his cattle (Gen. 13:10,13). God saw the awful evil of the people, and knew the city must be destroyed. He seems not to have given long warning, as to the people before the flood: just the night before, two angels came and told Lot to bring all his family out of the city, because God had sent them to destroy it.

Lot told his sons-in-law, but they did not believe him, and took it as “mocking,” what would now be called, “a joke”. Even Lot did not hurry to leave, and the angels had to lead him and his wife and two daughters outside the city, and told them to flee to a safe place.

God did not destroy the city by water, but by fire, and it was known by all the people of the countries near as a terrible disaster. Moses and several of the prophets wrote of it, and the ruin and ashes left, a warning against evil deeds (Deut. 29:23; Amos 4:11).

Jesus spoke of this several times to people, here His words are:

“As it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded. But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom, it rained fire and brimstone from Heaven, and destroyed them all.”

The plans of those people for houses and business did not change or stop the judgment of God. Several other wicked places near also were destroyed, there was no escape. Brimstone is sulphur, or like it, and its fumes suffocate people.

It is written that God “does not afflict willingly” and to send punishment is His “strange work,” not natural or pleasing to Him, as to show mercy. He does so only when people know His words and refuse Him (Lam. 3:33, Isa. 28:21, Josh. 10:8-14).

Even in the time of Lot, it is told that God first sent to Sodom to know if the people were so wicked as had been told (Gen. 18:21).

But when people will not repent of sin, they become worse and worse, and lead their children and others with them, as “all the people, from every part of Sodom, both young and old” followed the leaders in wickedness (Gen. 19:4).

Some now think people would not be as wicked as in those days, but the Lord Jesus knew the future time, as He did the past, and He said, “Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.”

He, the Son of man, has not been seen on earth for many, many years, but He is to be “revealed,” or seen. People will then be doing things as they please, some sleeping, some working, and those who have not believed God will be taken in judgment. There will be no mistake even in two so close as in the same bed, one will be “taken”, (vs. 24), the other left alive for Christ’s peaceful reign on the earth for 1,000 years which is yet to come.

ML 09/30/1945

Answers to Bible Questions for July

“The Children’s Class”

1.For the,” etc. Titus 2:11

2.“All Scripture,” etc. 2 Tim. 3:16

3.“For the which,etc. 1712

4.“Hearing of,” etc.Philemon 5

5.“Till I come,” etc.1 Tim. 4:13

6.“Charge them, etc. 6:17

7.“To save sinners.” 1:1.

Bible Questions for October

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in 1:2,3, John and Jude

1.Write in full the verse with the words, “Thy children walking in truth.”

2.Write in full the verse with the words, “The love of God toward us.”

3.Write in full the verse with the words, “The world passeth away.”

4.Write in full the verse with the words, “Fellow helpers to the truth.”

5.Write in full the verse with the words, “This life is in his Son.”

6.Write in full the verse with the words. “We love the brethren.”

7.For what should christians earnestly contend?

Answers to Bible Questions for July

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Onesimus. Philemon 10-16.

2.Philemon. Philemon 7.

3.By disengaging ourselves from unscripral associations. 2 Timothy 2:21.

4.In the living God. 1 Timothy 6:17.

5.Jesus Christ, raised from the dead. 2 Timothy 2:8.

6.Our Saviour Jesus Christ. Titus 2:13.

7.All things. 1 Timothy 4:8.

Bible Questions for October

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in 1:2,3, John and Jude

1.Whom may we not receive into our home?

2.What threefold evil does Jude warn against?

3.With whom is our fellowship?

4.How far should we go (if necessary) in our love for the brethren?

5.Name three (out of many) things that we know.

6.Where are we to keep ourselves?

7.What does the blood do?

ML 10/07/1945

How Little Willie Became a Preacher

When I am big enough,” said little Willie one day, “I want to be a preacher.” “What is a preacher?” asked his grandmother.

Willie, who was very much astonished at this question, said, “But, don’t you know, grandma? A preacher is a man who reads to the people from the Bible and explains it, and who says at the close, ‘Thirdly, my beloved.’... ‘I find it nice to have hearers.’” Grandma smiled and said:

“I think you are big enough now to begin to preach.” Willie opened his eyes wide and said: “Do you really mean this, grandma?” After a pause he said: “I have no fear to preach, but I don’t know how.”

“What does the preacher do first?” asked grandma.

“He selects his text and then explains it. I could not do this.”

“O, yes, indeed you could,” said grandma. “Here, for instance, is a nice text you could expound to me: ‘Be ye kind one to another.’” Ephesians 4:32.

“But that does not need explaining,” said Willie; “One needs simply to be kind to everybody; that’s all.”

“But it is none the less a nice text for my little Willie’s first sermon. I would like to have you preach on this one week.”

“To preach on this text for one week, grandma, how could this be possible?”

“Say, Willie, can you not be kind to all with whom you have to do, for a week?”

Willie looked thoughtful, then said astonished:

“Would that be a sermon?”

“It certainly would be the best seon you could preach, my little man. A good preacher must himself do what he tells others to do, or else no one cares to hear him. At any rate the ling sermon is the strongset one. The Saviour does not want words only, but deeds. The people, too, want to see in the preacher what they hear from him.”

“Well,” said Willie with a deep sigh, “I think I might make an attempt with this sermon, but I have never thought of this kind of a sermon.”

“I am much pleased, my dear, to hear you will be a preacher from tomorrow,” said grandma. “Remember your text: ‘Be ye kind one to another!’ Expound it well; show to all its meaning.”

And Willie began. The first thing next morning he said to himself: “It would not be kind to the teacher if I should whisper in school today, so I will not do it.”

So Willie was careful and never whispered once. This gave the teacr joy. She was pleased with Willie’s sermon, yes, all the more, since the sermon was continued the next day, and so on every day in the week.

During recess, and on the way home from school, Willie had often amused himself by annoying his schoolmates and had been into all manner of mischief at the cost of others. But now, since he had become “preacher,” he remembered well his text: “Be ye kind one to another.”

The evening of the first day his grandmother said:

“Willie, how did you get along with your sermon?”

“O,” said the young preacher, “this is a long sermon from morning till night, but I got along very well; the Saviour helped me.”

“Be ye kind one to another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32.

“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.” Matthew 11:29.

ML 10/07/1945

Resting

Lord Jesus, Thou art precious,

We place our hands in Thine,

And in Thy love and faithfulness

Our restful hearts recline.

We know not what’s before us,

But all is known to Thee;

It is enough with Thee we walk

Until Thy face we see.

ML 10/07/1945

The Shepherdess

The faithful shepherdess does not wish to be idle while she is watching her sheep and little lamb close by her side. How peaceful they look, and we know she is kind to them, as not one is afraid of her. They know her voice and her tender care.

We love to think of the Lord Jesus, the faithful Shepherd, who has told us in John 10:11.

“I am the good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.” How great was His love for His sheep!

He calls all those who believe on Him, His sheep, and He cares for them in every way.

If you know Him as the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep, He can say of you,

“MY SHEEP HEAR MY VOICE, AND I KNOW THEM, AND THEY FOLLOW ME.” John 10. 27.

ML 10/07/1945

Prayer in Trouble

Luke 18:1-14

Jesus wanted to teach the disciples always to pray to God when in trouble; if their prayers were not soon answered, they might think it no use to pray more. But He wanted them to know that God would surely answer the prayers of His people, and He told them this story, or parable: There was a widow in a city, to whom some one did a wrong, and she went to the judge to ask him to avenge her (punish the person).

The duty of a judge is to hear all cases and decide justly, and enforce the right, especially for one like the widow with no one to protect her. But the judge of that city was not a just man: he did not care for the people or for God. At first he paid no attention to the woman’s request, but it seems she came again to ask. Then he decided to do for her, not because it was right, but because he liked to be at ease, and he thought she would keep coming to bother him.

Jesus told the disciples how different God is from the selfish, unjust judge: He will most surely do for His people in trouble, “His elect,” believers of Israel, will be in deep trouble from those who despise them, and God will avenge them.

People now who love God and believe in His Son, the Lord Jesus, do not ask God to avenge them of their enemies, because now is God’s time to bless, not to punish. He wants to show mercy to all who will trust in His Son.

Yet these words, “Men ought always to pray, and not to faint,” are surely meant for all who believe God and for every time of trouble. And He has given many promises that He will hear and do: “Call upon Me in the day of trouble, and I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.” Psalms 50:15.

“The Lord is nigh unto all that call upon Him, to all that call upon Him in truth.” Psalms 145:18.

The Lord Jesus told another parable to teach that God answers only true and earnest prayer; He said two men came into the temple to pray: one man seemed to want others to hear him pray, he thought himself very good, and not a sinner like the other man. Jesus said, “he prayed with himself,” his prayer was not really to God.

The other man stood in a far part of the room, bowed his head low, and struck himself on his breast, which was a sign that he felt he deserved to be punished. All he could say was to ask God to have mercy on him: he knew he did what was wrong, and that God was holy.

Jesus said that man was “justified,” or forgiven by God; but not the man who thought himself always good. So we must be honest in prayer, God knows all we do, and wants to bless us if we confess our wrongs. “The poor man cried and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his trouble.” Ps. 34:6.

What words did the second man say? (vs. 13)

Who is told to pray in James 5:13?

ML 10/07/1945

The Swan

How beautifully pure and clean is the appearance of this graceful swan, and what a charming picture it must make as it glides over the clear water. And yet, boys and girls, God says this is an unclean bird, and classes it with such unlovely birds as the vulture, the raven and the owl (Lev. 11:18). One can almost hear this beautiful creature saying,

“I am better than ugly black ravens and nasty vultures. See how spotlessly clean I am. Surely I am different.”

But God’s Word must be taken rather than any thoughts the swan might have about itself, and He sees them all alike.

Many of you boys and girls are “goodly” to look upon, too. You dress nicely, have kind manners, try to be willing and obedient, go to Sunday School, and in many other ways are outwardly as pleasing as this lovely swan. But then, God does not look on the outward appearance, but on the heart, as He told Samuel when Jesse’s handsome sons came before him when he went to choose a king for Israel (see 1 Sam. 16:7). He says our hearts are “deceitful and desperately wicked” and that we are all unclean, if still in our sins, and there is no difference for all have sinned.

Thus we must all be saved by faith in Christ Jesus and His work on the cross for us, we receive a new nature that is pleasing to God.

“THERE IS THEREFORE NOW NO CONDEMNATION TO THEM WHICH ARE IN CHRIST JESUS.” Romans 8:1.

Nicodemus, in the third chapter of John, was also very fair to look upon—very religious and upright but Jesus at once told him he had no goodness at all before God, and that he must be “born again.”

But what a great comfort it is, dear children, that as none of us, not even the best, are fit for God’s presence, God Himself has found the way by which we can appear before Him in all the wondrous beauty of the Lord Jesus. When we take our places as unclean, ungodly sinners then we can, by faith, take Jesus as our Saviour, Who died that His blood might cleanse us from all sin, and Who gives His Own spoess righteousness to all who receive Him as their Saviour. Then, indeed, are we found to be clothed in the “best robe,” in all the beauty and loveliness of Christ Himself. All this is perfectly free to any who wish to take God’s gift of salvation—free, because Jesus paid for it with His own life. Thus we become “Accepted in the Beloved” (Eph. 1:6).

ML 10/14/1945

Taking God at His Word

Elsie sat with her box of water colors, coloring pretty texts. Her aunt was suffering from a burnt foot, and unable to go out on her usual visit to the Children’s Hospital; so Elsie, desiring to keep her company, employed herself in painting texts to be given to the crippled boys and girls in the hospital.

She was engaged coloring the words, “The gift of God is eternal life,” when her aunt quietly said, “How strange it seems, for you to be preparing that beautiful text for the little cripples, to show them the way of salvation, while you are all the time refusing God’s gift yourself.”

Elsie looked up from her painting, quite astonished at this strange turn in the conversation. She enjoyed coloring the texts, and was pleased to think that her work would cheer the little cripples in the hospital, but it had never dawned upon her, that she was rejecting the gift of God.

“What do you mean, aunt, by sang that?” asked Elsie, looking seriously into her aunt’s face.

“I fear my little niece has not yet taken God at His Word, and received His gift of eternal life. It is one thing to know about it, and quite another to have it. I am sure you have heard and read about the gift of God, but I am anxious that you should be able to say that it is yours,” said Elsie’s aunt.

There was long silence. Then a tear dropped on the half-colored text, from Elsie’s cheek, followed by a sob. The Spirit of God was silently working in her heart, showing her that she was an unbeliever, and that notwithstanding her knowledge of God’s Word, she had not received His gift of eternal life. Raising her tear-filled eyes, and grasng her aunt’s hand, Elsie earnestly asked, “How can I receive God’s gift, and be sure I have eternal life?”

“By believing His Word, Elsie dear; that’s all,” said her aunt. “He says that He has given His Son to be the Saviour of sinners, and Jesus the Son of God died that we might have life. All who believe on Him are possessors of that life, just as He has said,

‘He that believeth on the Son, hath everlasting life’ (John 3:36). You must believe that, just in the same way as you believed the other day, that I had put your letter in the mail. You did not see it, you did not feel it, but you believed it when I told you. You took me at my word, and said that your father would have your letter next morning.

Is that the way to believe God—just to take Him at His Word? “I never knew that before,” said Elsie.

There was little more said, but later that night, Elsie threw her arms around her aunt’s neck, and said, “I have the gift of God now, auntie. I know it, because God says it, and I have taken Him at His Word.”

Such was Elsie’s faith, and as her life has since proved, she became that night God’s child, and a possessor of eternal life.

Have you, dear boys and girls, taken God at His Word? If not, will you do so now?

“He that believeth on the Son (of God) hath Everlasting Life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see Life: but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3:36.

ML 10/14/1945

Little Harold and the Snow

Little Harold lay on his couch by the window watching the falling snow.

“Mother,” he said, “do you know why the snow has come?”

“No,” she answered.

“Jesus sent that snow,” said Harold, “to show me that I am whiter than snow, washed from my sins in His blood.”

Harold was very fond of going to Sunday school; he loved to hear God’s Word, and to sing hymns. He is only nine years old, but he is waiting for the Lord to call him home to Himself.

Happy little Harold! safe in the arms of the Good Shepherd.

No one is too young to come to the Lord Jesus; no one is too young to have their sins washed away. O come to Jesus, little children, come to Him now, for He is waiting to receive you, longing to make you “whiter than snow.” Perhaps you say that you don’t know how to come, but the Lord Jesus is close beside you; you have not to go a long way to find Him. Just speak to Him where you are; tell Him that you need Him because you are stained with sin; tell Him that you come to Him because you cannot do without Him, and you will find it true, as He said long ago,

“Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

ML 10/14/1945

Is the Bible True?

Did the Book we call the Bible

Come to us from God in Heaven?

Are the words which fill its pages

By His inspiration given?

Were the men He used to write it

So entirely in His hand,

That they only wrote the message

They received at His command?

Yes, the precious, Holy Bible

Is from God, and not of man,

None on earth have made its equal—

Let them do it if they can!

All its words were breathed from heaven,

And are perfect, proved, and sure;

They have stood the test of ages,

And forever shall endure.

As the waves of the angry ocean

Beat against the mighty rock,

But unmoved and undiminished,

It repels their every shock!

So the Word of God remaineth,

While its enemies have fled,

And it lives, and shall forever,

While they lie among the dead.

Let us love the precious Bible,

As God’s holy Word of truth;

We will own it as our standard,

And our guide in years of youth:

Through the paths so fraught with danger,

It will safely lead us on,

Till we reach the golden city,

And the Lamb upon the throne.

ML 10/14/1945

Calling for Children

Luke 18:15-17

While the Lord Jesus was in one place, some parents, or mothers, came with their infants to ask Him to put His hands on their heads and bless them.

You may wonder what “to bless” means: it is to ask God to do good to one, and the one who blessed, put his hand on the head to show the good was to be for that certain one. The mothers who brought those little ones to Jesus, believed that He had come from God, and that what good He asked, would surely come true.

But the disciples seem to have thought those little ones too young for the Lord to do for, and they “rebuked” the parents, said they were wrong to bring them, and would have sent them away. How good that Jesus saw them, and called them to bring them to Him, and took them in His arms, put His hands on their heads, and blessed them.

The words Jesus spoke, in blessing those children, are not written, but His words,

“Suffer (let) little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not,” are words we like to say over and over. For they show that the weakest or youngest is dear to Him, and He wants it near Him, that He may bless it.

Jesus told them that even older people must be humble and trusting as lile children, to be blessed, for all are “lost” from God because of sin. The people then did not know that Jesus must die, for God to do them good, hut later those children would be told that Jesus died to give them the best blessings, —forgiveness of sins, and a place with Him in Heaven.

Some people now say to wait to tell the children about the Lord, until they are old enough to decide all matters themselves: yet His words, “forbid them not,” tell us that is wrong. He was not pleased that the disciples tried to keep those little ones from coming to Him, so He cannot be pleased now if children are not told His love.

Once a mother wanted her little boy to learn of the Lord, and she took him to a place, called, the tabernacle, or “House of God.” It was very plain on the outside like a large tent, but the iide was all gold with much to teach the people that God was holy, but also of His mercy.

The boy stayed there and helped the man: one duty he had was to open the doors, or curtains, each morning, which would not be hard, but pleasant. But he learned most from God’s words to him, and “he let none of His words fall to the ground,” which meant he did not forget them, but kept thinking of them.

Do you know the boy’s name? It was Samuel, and when he was older he taught the people and told them the promise of the Saviour to come. So the Lord has always been glad to have children taught of Him.

So now your parents wish you to listen to His Word, the Bible, or to go where it is taught, that is right. For it is by His words He calls each to come to Him: “whosoever,” He has said, and that means each of us, and He will surely bless.

ML 10/14/1945

Wading

How much these little folks seem to be enjoying their play at the seaside! They have found a sheltered place, away from the waves which continually break on the shore beyond the rocks. Here they can wade in and gather the pretty shells and sail their little boats. See, how shallow the water is, too, surely, it is an ideal place for little folks like these in the picture. There was One who said,

“All Thy waves and Thy billows are gone over Me.” Psalms 42:7.

Do you know who that was? It was Jesus, God’s well-beloved Son, who said these words, when bearing God’s judgment against sin on Calvary’s cross. There He suffered the punishment we deserved as sinners. There the “waves and billows” of God’s judgment were upon Him. Now, do you think God will punish us, too, if we put our trust in Jesus? Surely not!

Are you aware, little reader, that you are a sinner, and in need of a Saviour?

If not, may God show you your real condition before Him, that you may accept Him as your Saviour—the One who died in your stead. Then you will be truly sheltered from the judgment which God must send upon those who will not have His Son.

“GOD COMMENDETH HIS LOVE TOWARD US, IN THAT, WHILE WE WERE YET SINNERS, CHRIST DIED FOR US.” Romans 5:8.

ML 10/21/1945

Snowball

A lady and gentleman, returning to America from Africa, brought with them a dear little African boy. Upon arrival, he was sent to one of our schools, and he found life in this country of ours, very different from what he had been used to in his own language. I’m afraid the boys and girls weren’t nice to him as they might have been, for they made fun of his dark skin, and gave him the name of “Snowball.” As he had never seen snow, he had no idea why they had given him this name. But one day he found out! When he woke that morning, everywhere he looked, all he could see was a white blanket of snow covering the ground, bushes, trees and houses. He clapped his hands with dight and ran to his lady to ask her to explain to him what had happened to the world while he had been asleep. She told him it was SNOW, and that it had fallen from the sky. He soon learned how to make a snowman and throw snowballs.

His delight at seeing the snow was rather spoiled when he realized why the children had called him “Snowball.” Usually little Snowball was very happy, but he had one trouble. He wished so much that his skin were white like the other children, and wondered how to make it so.

One day, when passing a store wiow, he saw a sign telling of some wonderful kind of soap that would wash things “white as snow.”

“Ah!” thought Snowball, “this is just what I need.”

So he ran home, emptied his tiny bank, and joyfully went back to the store to buy some of this good soap he had seen advertised. That night, before he went to bed, Snowball scrubbed hielf with it, till his skin was shining, but to his disappointment, found himself, if anything, blacker than before. He tried again and again, but with the same results. Poor little Snowball, he didn’t know that he could never wash his skin white like that of other boys and girls!

Some time after this, one evening our little friend was passing a building, when he heard voices singing so hap-pily—

“O, precious is the flow

That makes me white as snow,

No other fount I know—

Nothing but the blood of Jesus.”

The words “white as snow” attracted Snowball’s attention, and he quietly entered the building. Sitting right down at the back, he listened carefully while the preacher spoke on,

“Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” Psalms 51:7.

At the end, the preacher asked that if any were anxious to have their sins washed away in Jesus’ precious blood, they would stay behind and talk with him. The little fellow waited till all were gone, and then shyly spoke to the kind preacher, but found to his surprise that the gentleman had not meant to wash HIM white, but his black heart. He had explained to the preacher how he tried to scrub his skin white, but that it was all no use. It was shown to him that it was more important for him to have ‘his black heart washed white, than his skin.

That night, Snowball put his trust in Jesus, and then he was happy indeed. He knew for certain, that all his sins were gone—washed away in the precious blood that cleanseth from all sin. He knew he would go to heaven some day, to be with Jesus his Saviour.

Are you, my little friends, who read this story, washed as white as snow, in Jesus’ precious blood? You can be, right now, if you really tell Jesus you are a sinner, and ask Him to wash your sins away, for—

“The blood of Jesus Christ, His (God’s) Son cleanseth us from all sin.”

The next day little Snowball went to school happy. He told the boys and girls what he had found out the night before, and said,

“I’d sooner have my heart washed white, and my skin black, than a black, sinful heart and white skin.”

I would too, wouldn’t you? Then pray to Jesus from the bottom of your heart,

“Wash me and I shall be whiter than snow”—and He will.

ML 10/21/1945

I Don't Want to Be Left Behind

Afternoon lessons and addresses were over in a Sunday school not long since, and the classes were leaving in their usual order, when a girl went to get her little brother from the infant class of boys. She found him just ready to cry, and he said to her in a most dismal tone,

“O, I don’t want to be left behind.”

“No, dear, of course not,” answered his sister; “I have come now to take you home, as I always do, you know.”

“O, I don’t mean that at all,” said the little fellow; “I mean what the teacher has been talking about.”

“And what has he been talking about?”

“Why, about the Lord Jesus coming soon to take all who love Him up to live with Him; and the teacher said some people would be left behind, and, O, I don’t want to be left behind.”

The little boy’s sister perhaps told him that those who put their trust in the Lord Jesus would not be left behind when He comes to call away all of His own, for he trotted home happily by her side.

Now, does not this incident show plainly to you, dear children, that even the youngest in the Sunday school—tiny boys and girls in the infant classes —can understand and can remember something at least of what is told them by their teachers if they will only pay attention.

The Lord Jesus is certainly coming, and we know not how soon, to take all His own people—all who love Him—to be forever with Himself in glory. He loves little children particularly, and wishes them to come to Him now, and be ready to go to be with Him when He comes.

Should you be willing to be “left behind,” or do you say from your inmost heart, like little Willie, “I don’t want to be left behind?”

If so, accept the Lord Jesus as your Saviour right now, and you will be “ready,” and you will be one of His watching and waiting ones.

If your father or mother, whom you love so dearly, has been away from you for some time, and you know that he or she is about to return, but you do not know the hour, yet you want very much to be the first to run out and meet them, do you not keep waiting at the door, and watching from the window to catch the very first sight or sound of their coming? Our Lord said,

“Blessed are those servants, whom the Lord when He cometh shall find watching.” Luke 12:37.

May that rich blessing be yours, dear little reader; may you so be found,

“Abiding in Him that you will not be ashamed before Him at His coming.” 1 Jno. 2:28.

O, think of the joy, the bliss of meeting the Lord in the air, and of going Home with Him! Think also of what it would be to be “LEFT BEHIND.”

“They that were ready went in with Him to the marriage: and the door was shut.” Matthew 25:10.

ML 10/21/1945

A Ruler and a Beggar

Luke 18:18-43

Two men wanted to ask something of Jesus when He was passing near: one man was a ruler of a city and very rich; the other was very poor, begging for his food as he was blind. The ruler was a young man, and the beggar may have been ilso, for his father’s name is told (Mark 10:46).

Both of these men had heard of Jesus and His miracles and wisdom: but the ruler did not think Jesus was sent of God, for he called Him only, “good Master”, which meant, teacher. The blind man thought that One Who could do so great things, was the promised Messiah, for he called Jesus, “Son of David,” which meant, the Messiah King.

The ruler came to ask Jesus what he could do that would be rewarded with eternal life. He said he had always done all as written in God’s law. Jesus told him something to do to prove if he kept those words: to go sell the riches he had, and give to the poor, and to come follow Him.

The young ruler did not want to do that, so he really did not keep the law, which said to love the Lord with all his heart and his neighbor as himself. He wanted his wealth for himself, not to help a poor neighbor; if he had loved God he would have believed His proses of the Holy One to come, and he would have followed Jesus.

The poor blind man knew he was helpless, but he believed from what he had heard that Jesus had power to make him see, and when he learned He was near, he cried out for mercy. When those around him tried to keep him still, he called the more “for mercy,—that meant he knew he did not deserve but he believed Jesus was kind.

When Jesus called for him to be brought to Him, and the blind man heard His voice, he seemed to know Him to be greater than King; he called Him, “Lord.” How kind and willing the Lord Jesus was to do for the poor man, at once He asked him, “What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee?” And spoke the word for the blind man to see.

The answer of the Lord made the rich ruler sad, for he wanted eternal life, but he wanted his wealth more, and returned to it, and did not follow Jesus, nor praise God.

The answer of the Lord made the poor man very happy, he did not return to his ways, but followed Jesus and praised God.

Is there any one who can do such good deeds that he could earn endless life with God? No, that is never said, it can be had only as a gift to those who believe God’s Son. So it is best to feel ourselves helpless, like the poor blind man, and ask the Lord for mercy. He believed the Lord Jesus, obeyed and followed Him, and was happy.

Jesus and those with Him were then nearing the city of Jerusalem, and He told the twelve disciples the wicked, cruel way He would be treated there: He said He would be “delivered to the Gentiles, mocked and spitefully treated, spit on, scourged (whipped) and put to death.” Yet the Lord Jesus kept on His journey to suffer for us all.

ML 10/21/1945

The Shepherd That Never Sleeps

I want to talk to you a little about the picture. It seems to me that the friend who drew it, thought more about the lambs and sheep than about the shepherd; but thought there ought to be some one to look after them, so he put a man sitting down, a good way off, and looking half asleep. I am afraid this is too much like we all think of our own “good Shepherd.” We think more of ourselves, and how we take care of ourselves or of one another, than of what it is to belong to the “one flock” of that good Shepherd that never sleeps. He “ne’er forgets the least,” and He holds in His “hand” the lambs as well as the sheep. He “gathers” them with His “arm,” holds them in His “hand,” carries them in His “bosom” or on His “shoulders.” And does He not love them with His heart? If He does not, I cannot tell why He should say,

“I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD, AND KNOW MY SHEEP, AND AM KNOWN OF MINE.” John 10:14.

May you, dear little readers, and may I, learn more about this Shepherd of the sheep!

My Shepherd is the Lord,

The living Lord who died:

With all things good I ever am

By Him supplied.

ML 10/28/1945

Lost on a River of Ice

The adventuresome spirit possessed a boy during an exceptionally cold spell. He was given a half-holiday for skating, so decided to spend it exploring new territory. Down the frozen canal he made his way, until at last he was careering at full speed over the frozen waters.

Enjoying such a unique experience to the full, he was tempted to go farther and still farther. A dangerous fog began to envelope the entire scene, until he could not discern what lay three yards ahead.

At once he saw his awful peril, so lost no time in deciding on the wisest course. He turned and made for the shore, as he thought. After some time of searching in vain, he realized his mistake: he must have taken the wrong direction. At any moment he might land on thin ice, and then—what?

For some time he waited, hoping the fog would clear, and in the meantime he paced backwards and forwards in an effort to keep warm. This was no easy task, as the wind and frost pierced him to the bone. Everything was indeed very hopeless—the very picture of death.

In sheer desperation he managed to build up blocks of ice as a wall of protection, but in doing so his hands were badly bruised and cut. Beneath this poor defense he sought to rest.

Sleep would have overcome him; but he persistently kept awake by getting up every now and then and pacing back and forward beside his shelter. In this way he was kept from freezing; for full well he knew that once asleep he would never waken. So thus he spent that awful night, now resting, now patroling, with a heart filled with many fears.

At last the first rays of morning light afforded new hope and courage. He resolved to watch and listen for the first signs of life. He heard a siren! Ner before had a siren so much music in it! It was from an inland enamel factory, calling the employees to work. This was his compass; so he set off in the direction of the sound, sometimes walking, but at other times he was forced to crawl on hands and knees. Success attended his efforts, and with a sigh of great relief he reached the shore.

The first habitation was a small farm, and to this he made his way. Here he was treated with the utmost kindness. They drew him to the fire and provided hot food. These attentions soon began to revive him, though he suffered much as his benumbed parts regained their feeling. The last part of the journey home was rapidly covered, and none too soon for his anxious folks, whose hearts overflowed as they saw him back safe and sound.

His thrilling experiences are full of lessons for us all, by which we might profit.

By taking his own foolish way, he illustrates to us again the solemn truth of Isaiah 53, “All we like sheep have gone astray, we have turned every one to his own way.”

Our will and God’s will never blend, so the best thing for us is to trust the will of a perfect God.

But after tasting some of the thrills of excitement, our boy friend soon felt the pains and peril of his folly. How like the poor prodigal—pleasure and plenty for a time, then the awful coapse, morally and spiritually. He had to say, “I perish.”

It would have been no surprise if he had perished on the ice, due to the extreme exposure. But you, too, are exposed to something far worse — the wrath of God (John 3:36). Think! would you like to appear before a holy God as you are? Remember, the wages of sin is death (Rom. 6:23), and after that the judgment (Heb. 9:27).

But the story does not end there. He, too, came “to himself.” To remain where he was, would have meant certain death; to return, meant life. Aly it to yourself. Are you prepared to say, “I will come” to Christ?

The end is so beautiful. See the reception he received! But what will yours be if you turn in faith to Calvary, the only place of shelter from the ooming judgment? See your sins bng laid on God’s appointed Sinbearer as He stands in your place of distance, exposure, and death. Embrace Him as your very own. Rest on His perfect work, and of you it will be said, “He was lost and is found. And they began to make merry.” Luke 15:24.

ML 10/28/1945

How G. Found the Paper

G. a little girl, thought that God only loved good people. In a rather strange way she was led to change her mind about Him. While walking along the road one day, she picked up a piece of paper. She looked at it, and read the printed words,

“FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD THAT HE GAVE”— Here it stopped, the rest of the verse being torn off. God loved the “world,” then He loved everybody.

“God loved the world,” then He loved me, said G. “for I am part of the “world” that He loved.

“WHAT DID GOD GIVE?” was the question that puzzled G. Her heart grew lighter and her face became brighter as she dwelt on the blessed thought that God loved her. She was so ignorant of Bible truth that she did not know what God gave to the “world.” Still she had laid hold of the fact that God loved her. She went home smiling.

“What makes you so happy, G.?” was asked of her. Putting her hand in her pocket she produced the paper, “For God so loved the world, that He gave—.”

“But what did He give?” inquired one.

“I don’t know,” said the little girl; “but it was very good of God to give anything to the world.”

She was right. It was, indeed, very good of God to give anything to a guilty, sin-blighted world. We deserved nothing but banishment from His presence.

“The wages of sin is death” (Rom. 6:23); but He did not give us the wages.” Yet He loves us in spite of our sinfulness. He manifested His love in a wondrous way. God has given the best gift that Heaven could afford—the Lord Jesus.

“That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

How simple. He loved you, and died for you on Calvary’s Cross, that you might be His. Eternal life may he yours now! Why, then, delay? Believe on Him who loved you and gave Himself for you and you will be able to say: “God loved: God gave. I believe, and I have everlasting life.”

ML 10/28/1945

A Man in a Tree

Luke 19:1-10

There was one man who wanted very much to see Jesus when he heard He was passing through the streets of his city. But great crowds of people were walking close to the Lord Jesus, and the man could not see over them as he was a short man.

Then he thought of a way to, he ran ahead of the crowd, and climbed into a sycamore tree by the roadside: that is a kind of fig tree with low, spreading branches, and from there he would see Jesus as He walked by.

When Jesus came to the tree, He stopped and looked up: although the little man had never seen Jesus, the Lord Jesus knew him and what he wished, and called him by name, telling him to come down and He would go to his house.

That was a happy surprise for this man who had heard so much of Jesus that he wanted “to see Him, Who He was”. When he saw Him, heard His voice, and realized Jesus knew his thoughts, he seems to have believed Him the promised One and called Him “Lord.” He came down from the tree quickly to take Jesus to his home.

But people in the crowd thought the man was not worthy to have Jesus at his house, they said he was a “sinner.” He was chief of the publicans, who were the men to collect the taxes for the Roman nation who then ruled over that land. The Jewish people did not like to have that rule, and thought it wrong to collect the tax; some of the men were not honest, and all were disliked.

This man was rich but he thought of the poor, and if he had taken more tax than he should, when he saw the Lord Jesus he wanted to do right and said,

“Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor, and if I have taken anything from any man wronully, I restore him fourfold.”

Jesus said, “This day is salvation come to this house”, not because the man gave to the poor and wanted to be honest, but because he was “a son of Abraham,” which meant he believed God’s words as Abraham had. The Lord Jesus was Himself “the salvation,” the One to save the man and his family, because they were lost from God by sins, as all others. Jesus had come to earth to “seek and to save that which was lost.” He looked up into that tree to “seek” the man who wanted to know Him, “Who He was,” and would save him and his family.

Some men would have thought it was not just proper to run ahead of the crowd and climb into a tree, and they would have missed seeing the Lord Jesus. There are people now who do not like others to think they want to know the Lord, and do not try to come near Him. How much better to be anxious, like the little man, and be made joyful, for the Lord will surely let all know Him, who want to.

ML 10/28/1945

Answers to Bible Questions for August

“The Children’s Class”

1.“Jesus Christ the same,” etc. Heb. 13:8

2.“But we see Jesus,” etc. 2:9

3.“For the word.” etc. 4:12

4.“Hath in these.” etc. 1:2

5.“So Christ was once,” etc. 9:28

6.“That by two,” etc. 6:18

7.“Enoch.” 11.3

Bible Questions for November

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Revelation chapters 1-11

1.Write in full the verse with the words, “Redeemed us to God by thy blood.”

2.Write in full the verse with the words “Hast kept my word.

3.Write in full the verse with the words, “Which neither can see, nor hear.”

4.Write in full the verse with the words, “Blessed is he that readeth.”

5.Write in full the verse with the words, “In the blood of the lamb.”

6.Write in full the verse with the words, “The dead, that they should be judged.”

7.What did the Lord have against the church of Ephesus?

Answers to Bible Questions for August

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Those who are excerised thereby. Hebrews 12:11.

2.For an eternal city. Hebrews 11:10.

3.Shedding of blood. Hebrews 9:22.

4.To make intercession for us. Hebrews 7:25.

5.To be taken out of death. Hebrews 5:7.

6.Believers. Hebrews 3:6.

7.Jesus. Hebrews 2:9.

Bible Questions for November

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in Revelation chapters 1-11

1.When shall the mystery of God be finisd?

2.How many were sealed of the tribe of Judah?

3.Where was John when he received the Revelation?

4.When do the kingdoms of the world bome the kingdoms of Christ?

5.Which seal causes silence in heaven?

6.Who caused the children of Israel to coit fornication?

7.Which church is commended for keeping His Word?

ML 11/04/1945

A Real Hero

On board a steamer, a little ragged boy, aged nine years, was discovered on the fourth day of the voyage out from Liverpool to New York, and carried before the first mate, whose duty it was to deal with such cases. When questioned as to his object in being stowed away, and who brought him on board, the boy, who had a beautiful sunny face, and eyes that looked like the very mirrors of truth, replied that his stepfather did it, because he could not afford to keep him, nor to pay his passage out to Halifax, where he had an aunt who was well off, and to whose house he was going.

The mate did not believe the story, in spite of the winning face and truthful accents of the boy. He had seen too much of stowaways to be easily deceived by them, he said; and it was his firm conviction that the boy had been brought on board and provided with food by the sailors. The little feow was very roughly handled in Coequence. Day by day he was queioned and re-questioned, but always with the same result. He did not know a sailor on board, and his stepfather alone had secreted him and given him the food which he ate.

At last the mate, wearied with the boy’s persistence in the same story, and perhaps a little anxious to inculpate the sailors, seized him one day by the collar, and dragging him to the foremast, told him that unless he told the truth in ten minutes from that time he would hang him from the yard arm. He then made him sit down under it on deck. All around him were the passengers and sailors of the midday watch, and in front of him stood the inexorable mate, with his chronometer in his hand, and the other officers of the ship at his side. It was the finest sight, said our infornt, that he ever beheld—to see the pale, proud, sorrowful face of that noble boy, his head erect, his beautiful eyes bright through the tears that suffused them.

When eight minutes had fled the mate told him he had but two minutes to live, and advised him to speak the truth and save his life: but he replied with the utmost simplicity and sincerity by asking the mate if he might pray. The mate said nothing, but nodded his head and turned pale. And there, all eyes turned on him, the brave and noble little fellow, this poor waif whom society owned not, and whose own-steather could not care for him, knelt on the ship’s deck and prayed.

Our young friend was a true believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, and there, with clasped hands, and eyes upturned to heaven, he asked the Lord Jesus to take him to Himself and to forgive the mate. Our informant adds that there then occurred a scene as of Pentecost. Sobs broke from strong, hard hearts, as the mate sprang forward to the boy and clasped him to his bosom, and kissed him, and blessed him, and told him how sincerely he now believed his story, and how glad he was that he had been brave enough to face death, and be willing to sacrifice his life for the truth of his word.

Now, dear young friend, we trust that, if you are not already a believer in the Lord, this story of our little Christian hero will be the means of real blessing to you and lead you to Jesus, who is Himself “the truth.”

“I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” John 14:6.

“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.” Romans 10:9.

ML 11/04/1945

The Bright and Blessed Day

The bright and blessed day will come,

When Jesus we shall see,

And with Him in the glory bright

For evermore shall be.

The Shepherd’s heart will then rejoice

That all His lambs are there,

And every heart and every voice

In His great joy shall share.

The Lord will see us pure and bright,

And whiter than the snow,

And we shall be His heart’s delight,

Because He loves us so.

We then will sing and praise our God

For all His love and grace,

That we, who once were far away,

Now stand before His face.

In His sweet song we too shall join,

All standing round His throne,

Like lilies in His garden fair,

Each pure and spotless one.

Let those who love Him bless His name

For all the joy to come,

When we shall be with Christ above,

In God our Father’s home.

O! then we’ll praise Him for the joy

Of Jesus Christ our Lord,

For His eternal deep delight,

His endless bright reward.

ML 11/04/1945

A Certain Nobleman

Luke 19:11-27

The people with Jesus on His last journey to Jerusalem knew the words of the Old Testament about God’s holy rule over the earth. They believed Jesus the promised King, so they expected when the city was reacd He would take the place of King.

They did not understand the writings of David and others that the Holy One must suffer and be rejected as King (Psa. 2:2; 22:7; 69:4; Is. 53:33). Jesus also told them He must die, yet they were hoping for His rule to begin. So, when near the city, He told this pable to teach that He would be gone for a time, and they must wait for His rule:

“A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. He called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds (money), and said unto them, “Occupy till I come.” But his citizens hated him and sent this message after him, ‘We will not have this man to reign over us.’”

It is plain to us now that the “nobleman” was the Lord Jesus; the “far country,” Heaven; the “citizens” who hated him and sent the wicked message, were the leaders of the nation, who said plainly as a written message, “Away with Him, crucify Him” ( John 19:5); “the servants” were those who knew His words, and should do for Him.

The parable told what will happen when “the nobleman” returns as King: he will call the servants to give account of the money he gave them, each had the same: the first used his pound so well, it earned ten times as much; and the King said because he had been faithful with a little, he should rule ten cities: the next earned five times the pound, and he was given rule over five cities. All are not told of, but one came with the pound wrapped in a napkin, never used at all, because he feared the King was not just. But the King was very just, and gave that pound to the servant who had been most faithful to do for him.

That “nobleman,” the Lord Jesus, has been gone very many years: the parable told no time only those certain words, “he returned.” The people who heard Jesus’ words were His first sernts; many since have heard His words in the Bible, and each has the same Word to use for Him.

Some love the Lord, and think of His words and tell them to others, so much is gained for His honor: others hear His Word, but do not love Him, so do not use His words, are not true sernts.

Do you suppose we who have heard His words and love Him, do not often also, keep that Word “tied in a nain?” We do not read it, or think of it, or tell it to others, and must lose His reward. The pound in their money was not a large amount, so it is in small ways the Lord looks for faithfulness, as, to try to follow His words, to be patient, and humble. Christ will be the just judge.

“We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.” Romans 14:10; 2 Corinthians 5:10.

Those who despise Christ will be punished, and that also will be just (Acts 17:31).

ML 11/04/1945

Drawing Sister's Picture

How pleased the little sister seems, to have her brother draw her picture. No doubt she thinks when he is done she will see a true picture of herself with dolly on her lap. (You know she has never seen herself.) But if we judge from the few marks already made on the slate, it will not be a very true picture. You children all like to have your pictures taken, and to receive those of your friends.

I want to tell you of an aged servant of the Lord, who was asked by a young man for his picture.

“O, yes!” he said, “you will find it in full length in the Third chapter of Romans.”

Do you know what he meant? Of course, he did not mean that he would see a picture that would show how he looked to the natural eye. I think he meant that there would be seen a word-picture of himself, and this is the way God, who looks on your heart, sees every one of us.

I wish you would open your Bibles at Romans 3, beginning at verse 10, and read those solemn words. In verse 12 we have,

“THERE IS NONE THAT DOETH GOOD, NO, NOT ONE.” Romans 3:12.

When we bow our heads and say, “It is true, that ugly picture is mine,” then God can receive and bless us through the sacrifice of His beloved Son, and put His beauty upon us.

ML 11/11/1945

Bella and Annie

Bella came home from school one afternoon saying she was saved, and on the way to glory. A school companion had spoken to her on the way home, and while sitting by the river side, she trusted herself to Jesus, and He saved her. The Word of God on which she rested was,

“Verily, verily I say unto you, he that believeth on Me, hath everlasting life.” John 6:47.

Bella knew that she had “everlasting life” because the Word of the unchanging God said so. Nothing could possibly alter that. The two girls sang a song of praise to God together, and as they parted at the lane end, Polly said to Bella, “Speak to your sister Annie, she needs to be converted too, and if she is not, you will be parted for all eteity.”

Bella ran home as fast as she could, and meeting her Christian mother at the door, she threw herself into her arms, and said,

“O mother dear, I’m saved.”

This was glad news, for Bella’s mother had long and earnestly prayed for the conversion of her two girls. They had been taught the way of life from their earliest days, but she knew well, that until they were born of the Spirit, saved by grace, and truly converted to God, they could not live the Christian life, or enter heaven at last. How glad she was to hear from Bella’s own lips, the joyful news that she had passed from death to life. Mother and dauger sat down, and mingled tears of joy together.

“Where’s Annie?” was the first queion after Bella’s tears were wiped away.

“Sitting in her room at her lessons,” was the mother’s answer.

“I must go and tell her,” and off started Bella to where Annie sat with her books. In a few minutes she heard from Bella’s lips the story of her conversion, followed by the earnest appeal, “And now Annie, dear, you must come to Jesus, or we must be parted forever.”

Annie breathed a sigh, leaned her head wearily against Bella’s bosom, and burst into tears.

“I have been thinking a great deal about this for weeks, Bella, but I was always afraid to tell you anything about it, for fear you would laugh at me. Now you are saved, and I am left.”

“But you need not be left, Annie; Jesus wants to save you, and He will save you now, if you believe on Him, for He says so.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

“Come unto Me... and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

The sisters sat most of that evening together, speaking of the great salvation. Tea was untasted, and lessons were laid aside. Bella, the young believer, was in dead earnest to win her sister for the Saviour, and Annie was deeply anxious to be saved. They sat long, and their mother did not disturb them, but prayed in her heart that the Lord would save Annie that night.

When the two girls came into the kitchen where their mother sat, their faces beamed with a new joy, for Annie had trusted Christ as her Saviour, and they were now sisters for eternity.

Can you say, my young friend, that their Saviour is yours; and when the Lord Jesus comes to call Home to Himself all who are His, through faith in Him; or if you should die, you will go straight to be with Him for eteity.

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.

“The Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10.

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” John 3:36.

ML 11/11/1945

What Jim Did for Tom

Jim and Tom were brothers in the home. They were very much like each other in appearance and habits, and were true brothers in every sense. In the same school and in the same class, it often puzzled the schoolmaster to tell which was Jim and which was Tom. One day he did not even know they had changed places. It came about in this way.

During the teacher’s absence the usual noise and frolic took place. Returning unexpectedly he found Tom ringleader in the uproar. He must take the punishment for the offense, so was brought forward to the desk. But no cane could be found; it had been left behind by the teacher in his hasty return. Leaving Tom standing, he preceeded to find the instrument of punishment. In a moment Jim, the brother of the offender, slipped into his place, gave him a push toward his desk, and stood sullenly awaiting the punishment.

When the master returned, he did not notice that one brother had taken the place or become the substitute for the other, so punished Jim, the innocent, though willing victim, and let Tom, the real offender, go free.

An ordinary incident in school life, a picture of the greatest event in the world, when it is said of the Lord Jesus,

“But He was wounded for our tranressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5. Listen to the testimony of the chief of sinners.

“The Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20.

Jim only took a caning instead of Tom, but Jesus died in our stead on the Cross of Calvary! What mighty love! God “spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all.” Romans 8:32.

I feel sure when school was over that Tom thanked Jim warmly for volunteering to take his place and bear his punishment.

I also feel sure if you could but reaze how much the Lord Jesus has loved you, how great a danger He is willing to save you from, and how great a glory He is willing to save you to, you would not retire to rest another night without thanking Him for loving you, dying for you, rising for you, and soon coming to take you to His Eternal Home. Why not thank Him now?

“Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love, in Whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.” 1 Peter 1:8.

“Thanks be unto God for His upeakable Gift.” 2 Corinthians 9:15.

ML 11/11/1945

Entering Jerusalem

Luke 19:28-40

The city of Jerusalem was built on the tops of two mountains, which are close together,—Mr. Zion and Mt. Moriah. and Mt. of Olives is on the east. When Jesus and the disciples came to the foot of Mt. of Olives. He sent two disciples to a village near, where He said they would find a colt tied, which they were to untie and bring to Him. If any asked why they did this, they were to say, “The Lord hath need of him.”

Was it because it was hard to walk up the long, rough roads into the city that Jesus needed the colt to ride? No, it was. because it was written in the scriptures that the people of Jerusalem should see their King coming riding on such a colt, or what we call a donkey. And the Lord Jesus knew the time had come for Him to offer Hielf to the people as their promised Holy King (Zech. 9:9).

We would expect a great King to ride on a horse, but that was for war, and the King for Israel was to bring peace, not war, and to help them in trouble as a servant to God, not as a conqueror (1 Kings 1:38-40).

The disciples found the colt, as Jesus said, and brought it to Him. It is told (Matt. 21) that the colt’s mother was also brought, showing the Lord’s kindness to have them together. The disciples put their cloaks on the colt, as a blanket, and Jesus rode upon him up the road to the city, showing His power over an animal; as a colt, “whereon yet never man sat,” would not have been obedient to a stranger.

Crowds of people followed Jesus and the disciples; it was a time when many were going to Jerusalem for the passover feast; many had come from Galilee and other parts, who had seen Jesus’ power, many had been healed by Him, and all believed Him the promised Messiah and King, and they all began to sing psalms of praise to God.

Some went before and cut the flat branches of palm trees to lay over the rough road, others laid down their own cloaks, and palm branches were waved as they sang; for those things were a custom to show honor and joy. As they came nearer the city, people, already there, who believed Jesus the Messiah, came out to meet them, also singing and shouting words of the psalms: “Hosanna”, (Lord, save!), and “Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord” (Psa. 118:24,26, John 12:13).

It was a great procession, not as a wild celebration, but in true joy and thanks that the long-looked for King had come, and they fulfilled the words “Rejoice greatly, O daughter (people) of Zion: shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold thy King cometh uo thee: He is just and having salvation: lowly and riding upon an ass.” Zechariah 9:9.

So they went through the city up to the temple, singing praise there (Mark 11:11; Matt. 21). All their words were from God’s Word, yet the chief of the priests and the scribes, who had the writings of the prophets and should have known they were then fulfilled, wanted Jesus to silence the people. They were the men to proclaim the king, hut they did not.

ML 11/11/1945

The Rabbit

No doubt most of my young readers have been much interested in little rabbits, and have watched their funny antics, and taken great delight in feeding them.

Here in our picture we see a trap laid for the little creature, and he is just about to go into it.

May we remember that Satan has traps for our feet, to catch us and lead us into sin, but he does that because he is an enemy of God, and wants to spoil all of God’s creation. So what he does is to destroy.

If that little rabbit only knew that it was a trap he was about to enter, he would not go in, but he does not know it, and he is enticed by the food that is put in sight. And that is the way that Satan tries to do; he puts something attractive before people to lead them on and on, till he gets them into that which will bear bad results.

The way to avoid Satan’s snares or traps is, to fear to displease the Lord, as the Scriptures give us,

“THE FEAR OF THE LORD IS A FOUNTAIN OF LIFE, TO DEPART FROM THE SNARES OF DEATH.” Proverbs 14:27.

ML 11/18/1945

Are You "One" Or "Five?"

As a friend and I journeyed on by the train the following conversation took place between my companion and another passenger: “Are there many Christians in B.?” asked my friend.

“I’m afraid not,” was the reply.

“Indeed; are they not all Christians in B.?”

“O, no; B. is a very corrupt place. In fact, I should not think there would be more than one Christian to five who are not.”

“And which class do you belong to; the ones or the fives?”

“Well, I couldn’t say that I am among the ones.”

“Then YOU are not a Christian—YOU don’t know your sins forgiven; and if you are not of the “ones,” you must be of the “fives,” and therefore on your way to eternal woe.”

Suppose you had been in the train and had been asked the question, would you have been among the “ones” who are saved, or the “fives” who are uaved? Which are you now?

“The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

“The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

ML 11/18/1945

Freddie's Colored Text

Flee From The Wrath To Come.” Matthew 3:7.

It was a large sheet, with only six words on it, painted in plain blue and red letters. It hung for many a year just above the fireplace in a little room where boys and girls met on the Lord’s day afternoons to hear of Jesus and His love, and where meetings were also held for older people in the evenings. It was colored by a little boy who loved the Lord, and desired to do something to lead others to Him. He was too young to teach, and the thought crossed his mind that he might spend a few of the winter evenings coloring this text for the meeting room, and perhaps it might be the means of arousing some little one to think. After he had finished it, he asked permission to put it up on the wall.

Many an eye rested on it, and it was known that God blessed the words of that Colored Text to make more than one think about the great eternity, and “the wrath to come.”

“God hath appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world in righousness by that Man (the Lord Jesus Christ) whom He hath ordained.” Acts 17:31.

How many boys and girls who are saved, might do a similar work, and if it were truly done for the Lord Jesus, He would bless it to many.

To paint Texts of Scripture, or to hand out “Messages of the Love of God” papers, and Gospel tracts, is a nice work for the Lord that children can do for Him.

“I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.” Romans 1:16.

ML 11/18/1945

Little Mary's Song

Some time ago; I led a little girl; in a distant city, from a wretched home, where both parents were daily drunkards, to a Sunday-school. We had neatly clothed her. In a little time she took great delight in her school. More than once or twice, the unnatural parents sold her clothes from off her back for rum, and we would clothe her up again. It cost a good deal to keep good clothing on poor little Mary. But as often as her clothes were sold, I would see that she had new ones. She became very much attached to the school, and loved dearly to sing her Sunday-school hymns. She went to more than one school; for she would go morning, afternoon, and evening. She soon gave pleasing evidence that she nad became a child of God.

You have heard of the burning of the P. Mills. When they fell, Mary was at work in one of the basement rooms, with some other little girls whom she had taught to sing her hymns with her.

At first they were not hurt, but closely confined. Piles of timber and rubbish lay above them. We could talk with them, and cheer and encourage them. We passed down food and coffee to them. All this went on until the cry of fire was raised! The ruins were all soon wrapt in one sheet of flame. In the midst of all the noise, and above all, I could hear the voice of my dear little Mary, my Sunday-school scholar, striking up and singing, with her little band of singers, her favorite hymn, beginning My heavenly home is bright and fair,

We’ll be gathered home;

Nor death nor sighing visit there,

We’ll be gathered home;

We’ll wait till Jesus comes,

And we’ll be gathered home!

I stood with streaming eyes, and heard her sing till her voice was lost in silence. And she went up to heaven in her chariot of fire— “gathered home.”

How glad I was that I led her to the Sunday-school—glad that I never became weary, when her clothes were sold, of clothing her anew, so that she might go again. It was but a little done, and now she was “gathered home.”

Dear Children, if flames of fire should over-take you, would you be ready to go to be with the Lord Jesus?

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners,” 1 Timothy 1:15.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

ML 11/18/1945

Something More Than Gold

A certain man of whom we read,

Who lived in days of old,

Though he was rich, he felt his need

Of something more than gold.

He climbed a tree above the crowd

So that he might behold

The blessed One, with power to give

Something more than gold.

The Saviour passed along that way,

And saw him in the tree,

And calling to him, Jesus said,

“I must abide with Thee.”

So he obeyed, and soon he found

The half had not been told,

The blessings Jesus brought to him

Were better far than gold.

“O, yes, my friend, there’s something more,

There’s something more than gold:

To know your sins are all forgiven,

Is something more than gold.

“Jesus Christ... in Whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.” Ephesians 1:7.

ML 11/18/1945

Peace Refused

Luke 19:41-48

The name, Jerusalem, means “city of peace,” on one high part was Mt. Zion, with the king’s house; on the other high part, Mt. Moriah, was the temple, where God was to be hored. All was for the people’s good and for peace. Yet, because of their sins, they had wars and trouble, the opposite of peace.

Many years they had no ruler of their own, but were ruled by cruel kings of other lands. But it was promised in the scriptures that God would give them a holy King, or ruler, to bring peace. It was written of that One as first a child, “Unto us a Child is born,” but Who would grow older, “unto us a Son is given, and the government shall be upon His shoulders.” One of His names was to be “Prince (ruler) of peace” (Isa. 9:6).

When Jesus was born in the town near Jerusalem, the angel said, “Peace on earth”; He was the One to bring peace, and when older He did the good written of that One.

It was written the holy King would be just and lowly, and how He would ride into Jerusalem (Zech. 9:9). The year this holy Ruler would be born a child, was not foretold, but the exact year He should be there as “Prince,” or Ruler, was written, He being also called “Messiah,” which meant the One anointed and chosen by God.

The nation, Israel, were captives many years in another country; then God told the ruler over them, to send them back to build up Jerusalem (Ezra 1:1-5). An angel told the prophet Daniel, that from the time of that command “unto Messiah, the Prince, shall be seven weeks, and three-score and two weeks,” or 69 “weeks” (Dan. 9:25).

A week to us means seven days, but then a “week” also meant seven years (as shown in Genesis 29:27,28.); and it was entirely plain to the people then, that 69 “weeks” meant 483 years. They knew well the year of command to restore their city, so could count the 483 years from then, to know the year the holy King would be there.

All the people who knew the writings should have been expecting Him, and that was the year the Lord Jesus rode into Jerusalem. But the men of the tele who had the writings, did not want the just King.

Jesus knew they would refuse Him, yet He mourned that they would have no peace, He looked down on the city, perhaps from Mt. Olives, where He stayed at night, and wept, and spoke as though to the city itself, “If thou hadst known.... the things which belong unto thy peace!” He was the One to bring peace and deliver them from the enemies, if they had welcomed Him. But instead of peace, Jesus said that an army would surround the city, and fight against them, until all would be broken down and the people destroyed. “Because” they “knew not the time of their visitation,” meaning, they did not believe the coming of the holy King.

Although refused by Israel, the Lord Jesus, by His death on the cross, made peace, which God offers now, not to one city only, but to every person who will accept Him.

“We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1.

ML 11/18/1945

"Overflowing of Waters"

Such a beautiful scene! How refreshing a place like this is in the midst of Goid’g creation so marred by the effects of sin.

If to us “created things though pleasant, now bear to us death’s stamp,” how must God feel, for whose “pleasure all things are and were created?”

“Yea, the heavens are not clean in His sight.” Job 15:15.

What of man in regard to his right to live on earth? His gray hair, failing eyesight and wasting body tell that he is not fit to live here.

In spite of not being good enough to live in the world, some people foolishly think they will be given a place in heaven on their own merits.

“I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” John 14:6.

“IF YE BELIEVE NOT THAT I AM HE, YE SHALL DIE IN YOUR SINS.” John 8:24.

ML 11/25/1945

Minnie's Temptation

Minnie G. was the only daughter of godly parents. She had early known the Lord Jesus as her Saviour, and she loved Him. Almost from infancy she would say to others, “Do you love Jesus?” All knew her as a happy little Christian.

Like many others, Minnie, one day, left the loving shelter of her home, to go forth into the world—a child of God—bearing bright testimony to His name.

One day, while living with a lady who employed her as cook, she was very unhappy. Her mistress, a seengly religious lady, although void of the true love of Christ in her heart, practiced little deceptions. She seemed greatly annoyed to find her maid above such unchrist-like actions, and did her best, we are sorry to say, to personally annoy her. It had been so on the day of which we speak. Minnie was cooking the dinner, and the tempter whispered, “Burn up the dinner, and get even with her. Your mistress will treat you better for it. You will show her you can take your own part.”

Minnie was angry and miserable and was almost on the point of yielding to Satan’s advice, when a voice within said, “Do all to the glory of God.”

Her eyes filled with tears, for these were her mother’s last words on her leaving the old home. She thanked God she had not yielded to temptation, and said to herself, “I’ll cook the dinner for the Lord Jesus; if He is my guest, I shall be sure to do it well.”

“Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.”

“But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done; and there is no respect of persons.” Colossians 3:23-25.

ML 11/25/1945

"Plenty of Time for a Boy Like Me"

I’ve something to tell you,” said Wilfred W. one day as his aunt, who had just come to see her nephew, entered the room. Wilfred had just returned from school, where he was succeeding in his lessons very well, being a clever boy, and fond of his studies.

His aunt had heard lately how Wilfred had not only been taking an intest in his studies, but also in the study of the Word of God, and of this she was deeply thankful. So she replied, “Well, what is it, Wilfred?” wishing to test him. “A new toy?”

“O no,” said Wilfred, “something so much better than that; the best thing of all!”

Wilfred knew that his aunt would guess by this that he had made some discovery she was only too anxious he should make. So in reply to her astonished look of joy and satisfaction and question how it came about, Wilfred continued;

“Well, you know it all came about like this. My Sunday school teacher said she wanted all her boys to come over to the Lord’s side and take the Lord Jesus as their Saviour and serve Him, and I said ‘I did not want to, because I wanted to do as I liked, and I knew that if I became a Christian, I should not be able to do that. Besides there is plenty of time for a boy like me,’ I said.

“‘Well,’ said the teacher, ‘I am not so sure of that Wilfred, but suppose you look me out a text that says that there is Plenty of time, so that I and you can be quite sure that you need not come yet.’”

“So I took my Bible, auntie, and began to read it. One of the first texts I happened to come across was,

‘It is time to seek the Lord’ (Hosea 10:12) and then I read about little Samuel and I noticed that he was listening to the Lord, so that when he was called he heard Him speak, and came to Him at once. And later on another text I read was in the New Testament:

‘The Master is come and calleth for thee.’ John 11:28. So I just thought I ought to come, and mother prayed with me; and the next Sunday I told my teacher, and she said, ‘Thank God.’ O, Auntie, I am so happy now. I wish I had come to the Lord Jesus before; but now when He comes we shall all be ready.”

How good it is to hear and come at once when God calls us. I came when young myself, and I know it is good to trust and serve the Lord.

“Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

ML 11/25/1945

Patty's Recitation

Patty was my youngest scholar. He came to the school when four years old, and I believe the Lord opened his young and tender heart to receive the Gospel, and believe it unto salvation before he was six. For many years we have had a Sunday school Treat and Prize Distribution on New Year week, when, in addition to Gospel Addresses, some of the children recite select pieces and also favorite Gospel hymns, as a means of making known the good news to parents and others who need salvation. Patty recited very simply and sweetly “The Old, Old Story,” which closes with the cleang Gospel truth, expressed in the lines:

“For our sins He suffered,

For our sins He died;

And not for our sins only,

But all the world beside.

Then God released our Surety

To show the work was done;

Our Saviour’s resurrection

Declares the victory won.”

The little boy on the platform telling out in childish tones that glorious message was a beautiful sight, and God blessed the Gospel through his lips to lead one weary sinner to the Saviour. That was Patty’s first soul.

“I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.” Romans 1:16.

“Whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed.” Romans 10:11.

ML 11/25/1945

"Come unto Me"

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

“COME UNTO ME”—’tis Jesus calls

In tones of tend’rest love;

My precious blood was shed for thee,

That thou should’st live above.

O, sinner come, and I will cleanse

And take thy sins away,

And fill thy heart with joy and peace,

Throughout each passing day!

“COME UNTO ME—with outstretched arms

I wait to welcome thee;

Poor heavy-laden sinner haste,

Arise and come to Me.

Bring all the burden of thy guilt,

Those weary years of sin,

My arms of love are opened wide

To take the wand’rer in.

“COME UNTO ME”—the day of grace

Will soon have passed away,

Eternity is drawing nigh,

O, do not longer stay!

Each moment nearer carries thee

To thine eternal doom,

Then haste, let not thy soul be lost,

But come while yet there’s room.

ML 11/25/1945

Vineyard Keepers

Luke 20:1-18

The men who had charge of all in the temple were more than ever angry at the Lord Jesus when He sent away those who were selling things there. They asked Him who gave Him authority, or the right, to do so.

Jesus knew their hatred for Him, and what they would soon do to Him, and He answered them by this parable:

“A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen (keepers), and went to a far country for a long time. At the season he sent a servant, that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat him and sent him away empty.

“Again he sent another servant, and they beat him also, and treated him shamefully and sent him away empty. Again he sent a third: they wounded him also, and cast him out.

“Then said the Lord (owner) of the vineyard, ‘What shall I do?’ I will send my beloved son: it may be they will reverence him when they see him.”

“But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among themselves, sang, ‘This is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours.’ So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him.”

The meaning of this parable was very plain, was it not? All know that vineyards are planted that fruit will grow: a large vineyard needs many keepers, and it would be right for the owner to have a share of the fruit.

The people of Jerusalem and all that land were like a vineyard to God: He had brought them there from Egypt, and done every good for them: should He not have “fruit,” or praise from them?

The priest and scribes and rulers were to be as “husbandmen” to do for the people, and to teach them to praise God. Some of them did honor God, but many did not. God told His wishes to men who believed Him, and they told His words to the leaders and to the pele, such men were the “servants” sent, called prophets. Yet they were not liked, even Moses was spoken against, and some were put in prison, and some were stoned.

After many years God sent His own beloved Son to the land, just as the owner of the vineyard sent his son. Did the men of the temple, who were the “keepers” of the people give respect to God’s Son, the Lord Jesus, or praise God for Him? No, they were at that very time planning to “cast Him out,” and do what the keepers said, “Come, let us kill Him.”

Those men had not believed the words of the prophet John, or turned from their sins as he told them, then they did not believe the Lord Jesus. They were selfish and dishonest, as the vineyard keepers; they wanted to use all things for themselves.

The parable was a plain answer to their question, “Who is he that gave thee authority?” It was God Who sent His Son and gave Him authority. This is for us to think of too: although the Lord Jesus took a humble place on earth, He was and is the Son of God, and has every right over all.

ML 11/25/1945

Answers to Bible Questions for September

“The Children’s Class”

1.“Yet if any.” etc.1 Peter 4:15

2.“Whereas ye,” etc.James 4:14

3.“And spared.” etc.2 Peter 2:5

4.Who his own, etc. 1 2:24

5.“But the word,etc. 1 1:25

6.“If any,” etc. James 1:5

7.“Abraham.” 2:23

Bible Questions for December

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Revelation chapters 12-22

1.Write in full the verse with the words, “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.

2.Write in full the verse with the wofds “Having on his head a golden crown.”

3.Write in full the verse with the words, “Satan, which deceiveth the whole world.”

4.Write in full the verse with the words, “I saw the dead, small and great.

5.Write in full the verse with the words, “Names are not written in the book.”

6.Write in full the verse with the worde, “Moses the servant of God.”

7. Who are going to “have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone?”

Answers to Bible Questions for September

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Grudge not. James 5:9.

2.To deliver the godly out of temptations. 1 Peter 2:9.

3.Take it patiently. 1 Peter 2:20.

4.Visiting the fatherless and widows in affliction and keeping oneself unspotted from the world. James 1:27.

5.A meek and quiet spirit. 1 Peter 3:4.

6.It is enmity with God. James 4:4.

7.Fleshly lusts. 1 Peter 2:11.

Bible Questions for December

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in Revelation chapters 12-22

1.Who can enter into the holy city?

2.Who is arrayed in fine linen, clean and white?

3.Who is the “man child”?

4.What did the vials contain?

5.Where does the battle (war) of the great day of God Almighty take place?

6.Who is the great whore?

7.What is the final destiny of the beast and false prophet?

ML 12/02/1945

A Narrow Escape

On a cold wintry day we went to visit my Grandmother. I was bundled into my sled, and Mother pulled me over the ice and snow.

A little way from Grandmother’s house were railway tracks, and just as we reached them, the sound of a train’s whistle could be heard. The crossing gates were lowered in front of us, and the train rolled swiftly past. As soon as the last coach had passed, up went the gates. Mother tugged at the sled rope, and we were on our way again.

But when we were in the center of the tracks, Mother looked up to see the big engine of a train coming from the opposite way. It was a fast express! The careless watchman had opened the gates and let us step right into its path!

Mother was seized with fright she might have run and saved herself, but no mother would do that. There I was tucked in blankets, knowing nothing of our danger.

It was difficult to pull the sled across the steel tracks, for the snow had melted from the rails and the runners scraped. All the time the train was coming nearer! It looked as if we would be killed.

Almost at the last moment, a man rushed out to us and seized the rope. Being much stronger than Mother, he easily pulled the sled off the tracks. The train sped by and we were saved.

This kind act by a stranger reminds me of the love of the Lord Jesus Christ in saving me from eternal death. He laid down His life on the cross of Calvary to bear the judgment my sins deserved, and now through believing in Him I am saved.

God’s Word tells us: “All have sied and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23, and so you too, need a Saviour. Come to Him now—put your trust in Him, for He said,—Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

ML 12/02/1945

Sin's Power

Once a gentleman who was going through the woods, saw a wild pigeon standing very erect and motionless on a branch. He was amazed that when he drew near it did not attempt to fly away. Though he made a noise, it did not turn its head, but remained rigid.

Then, when he came closer, he discovered with a start the cause. Quirvering above the leaves of the opposite branch was the head of a cobra, its cruel steely glance fixed on its victim on whom it was about to strike. With a swift blow of his cane the gentleman killed the snake, but even then the bird seemed dazed, frozen with fear. Only by degrees did it get back the power of its limbs and throw off that fatal fascination.

So it is with sin. It binds us with chains that no man, not even the stronst, can break. But there is “good news” in God’s Word, for there we find that there is One, a God-Man, Who has broken sin’s deadly power.

Jesus is His name. He received the Serpent’s deadly sting for us, dying for our sins on the cross, and thus broke the power of Satan over us. Now the believer is set free and can go happily on his way to glory.

“Kept by the power of God through faith.” 1 Peter 1:55.

ML 12/02/1945

Seasons Change

Wrapped in a white and hoary garb,

Nature is fast asleep;

The earth, like man, must have repose,

Or fruit we’ll never reap.

An unseen artist through the night,

In lovely crystal stains,

Has drawn the phantom fairy trees

Upon the window panes.

At night athwart the heavens, bright

Meteors flash and gleam;

And far above the wintry waste,

The stars like jewels seem.

The wind moans through the leafless trees,

The firs with snow are clad;

The feathered minstrels now are mute,

So listless, dull, and sad.

Where are the flowers? alas! they’re dead,

They slumber ‘neath the ground;

And where the blooming rose once hung,

The icicle is found.

We, too, may die, but Springtime comes,

This hope allays our fears;

The dead in Christ will live again,

Through never ending years.

“FOR THE LORD HIMSELF SHALL DESCEND FROM HEAVEN WITH A SHOUT, WITH THE VOICE OF THE ARCHANGEL, AND WITH THE TRUMP OF GOD: AND THE DEAD IN CHRIST SHALL RISE FIRST.” 1 Thessalonians 4:16.

“Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” 1 Thessalonians 4:17.

ML 12/02/1945

The Lord's Wise Answer

Luke 20:20-26

Men of Jerusalem tried every day to find cause against the Lord Jesus that He should be punished. They knew if they could tempt Him to speak against the ruler or the tax required, the governor would irison or punish this nation had not always paid tax, or tribute, to another country: God had given them that land to be free. But, when they disobeyed His words year after year, He let other nations conquer them. At that time the Roman power was over them, and the ruler was one of the Caesars.

The men thought Jesus would say they should be free, and so speak against Caesar: they asked Him, “Is it lawful (right) to pay tribute to Caesar, or no?”

Jesus said for them to show Him a penny: that was a Roman coin of more value than our penny, having the name and likeness of the ruler engraved on it, as money often has now. The men showed Him a penny, and He asked them whose name and likeness were on it. They answered, “Caesar’s.”

Then He said to them, “Render, therefore, unto Caesar the things which be Caesar’s.”

Jesus knew that their sins had brought them under the tax, and until they repented to God for the sins, they must be under other rule, and should pay the tax. He did not speak against Caesar or the tax, so they found no cause to report Him, as they hoped to.

But there were other words Jesus said to them: they were to give “to God the things which be God’s.” All things belong to God, for we are told, “The earth is the Lord’s and the fulness thereof”, even “they that dwell therein.” Psalms 24:1.

The metal that penny was made from, had been placed in the earth in creion, and meant for men to use for good. Money was not what God wanted; but thankfulness and obedience to His words.

The men who came to tempt Jesus, knew they had not obeyed God’s words, and they saw that Jesus understood their plan to try to have Him speak against the ruler. They “marveled” at His wise answer, yet they were not sorry for their sin.

Jesus’ answer shows how perfect He was in all His words: many wrongs could be found in our words, but none in His. Do you remember when Peter was asked if His Master, Jesus, paid the tax, Jesus did not want those who did not know Who He was to think a wrong. Surely He should have been free, since “all things were made by Him” (John 1:3). He had taken the place of a very poor man on earth; it would seem lie had no money, but He knew where to send Peter to obtain a coin, which was enough for both His and Peter’s tax.

Several years after Jesus lived on earth, some of the people who believed in Him were living in Rome, the capital of that same power who required tribute. We might think, there, they could ask to be free of paying, but they also were told, “Pay ye tribute.... render therefore to all their dues.” Romans 13;6,7.

ML 12/02/1945

Stronger Than a Lion

A traveler in Arabia who was in a desert alone and unarmed, met a lion. There was no way to escape, but he was a man who believed in the power of prayer. As the lion came toward him, he just knelt down and asked God to deliver him. The beast sniffed all around him, and then walked calmly away.

So you see, although the lion is strong, God is stronger, and He answers faith in Him. Remember what God says in His Word,

“Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.” 1 John 4:4.

Faith is a great weapon. It was by faith in God, that the boy David killed the lion, the bear, and the great giant. Have you ever read the eleventh chaer of Hebrews, and counted how many times the word “Faith,” is used?

A little girl once said, “Faith is believing what God says, and not asking any questions about it.”

Faith links one with God’s great love and power.

“This is the victory that overcometh.. even our faith.” 1 John 4:4.

“YE ARE ALL THE CHILDREN OF GOD BY FAITH IN CHRIST JESUS.” Galatians 3:26.

ML 12/09/1945

The Victory of a Child

Some time ago I visited some friends of mine. The little daughter, Emma, was a very self-willed child. If any one contradicted her in anyway, she would all at once, become furiously angry, and remain for hours sitting in a corner grumbling. Every effort that the parents made to correct her of this stubbornness, appeared to be fruitless.

Emma had to learn every day a small portion out of the Bible. While I was staying there, she did it generally in my presence. One morning she came as usual and sat down next to me. By her half-uttered words I perceived that she was learning the 23rd Psalm. After a half-hour had passed, she asked me to hear her repeat it. I did so, but soon perceived that she did not know it as well as she thought she did, and so I said,

“You don’t know your Psalm very well yet; I should like so much for you to know it without one mistake, by the time your mother comes back.”

Emma’s parents had gone out, but promised that they would soon return.

“Yes, yes,” she said “I must know it by heart before mother returns, so that I can recite it for her.”

I knew that this would cost her some trouble, as she learned with difficulty, and had a poor memory.

She began to repeat the Psalm in a low voice, but always made the same mistakes in the fourth verse. This, as the most of my readers will know, reads as follows, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.”

“Emma,” I said, “you must repeat the fourth verse over and over, until you can say it without a mistake.”

When she had repeated it three times, but always with the same mistakes, she ceased, and said in a tone that showed me that she was in earnest, “Now, I won’t repeat it any more, I cannot learn this verse, and I don’t have to.”

Without paying any attention to her words, I told her to repeat it once more. She looked at me angrily, and cried out, “I told you that I will not say it over again; I won’t do it, and I won’t learn it by heart.”

With these words, the little face, that a moment before was bright at the thought of reciting the Psalm perfectly to her mother, had such an angry expression, that I was shocked at it. I saw with pain that Emma had one of her Fts of anger, and for that reason asked her very gently to repeat the verse once more. She refused, however, obstitely to do so.

As I saw that for the present it was quite useless to go on with the subject, and knew too the difficulty of handling in the right way a case of obstinancy and self-will, I thought it better to direct her thoughts into another channel, and then afterward when her anger was over, to take up the matter again. I had said that she was to repeat the verse again and again, until she could say it without a mistake, and I felt that I must insist on this, although I was aware that I needed the help of a higher power to break this strong will.

I was silent for a little while, praying to the Lord to show me what I must do and say. At last I said, “Emma, can you tell me, what the Lord Jesus did, when He was on earth, and the devil came to Him, and tempted Him to do what was not right, and which would have dishonored God?”

“No,” she answered.

“Shall I tell you?”

“Yes.”

Then I told her in a few words, how the Lord Jesus had been tempted of the devil, and how at last He had sent him away with the words, “Get thee behind Me, Satan!”

My story seemed to impress her, for by degrees the angry expression faded from the little girl’s sweet face, and full of expectation she looked at me.

“Does the Lord Jesus wish us to be like Himself?” I now asked her. “Yes,” she answered.

“Yes,” I repeated, “it is God’s wish that we should be like His Son in every way. He is busy with that all day; and everything, even the smallest, that God’s children go through down here on earth, serves to make us more and more like Him. That is God’s desire for all who have been washed in the blood of Jesus.”

“If the devil came to me,” I continued, “and tempted me to be very angry, and I should say to him, ‘Get thee behind me, Satan!’ do you think that he would leave me?” She looked at me thoughtfully for some time, and then said: “Yes, I believe he would, for God Himself would command him to go.” With these words she turned away, folded her little hands and bent her head.

She had understood me. With great joy I saw that her lips were moving in prayer. But what was my joy in comparison with the joy of God over this little girl of not yet six years of age. that had by the power of the Holy Spirit conquered her evil passion.

A moment later Emma looked up, and said with tears in her eyes: “I will learn my verse; I will repeat it, just as often as you wish, until—until I know it quite well.”

The victory was won; the child was happy, and God was glorified. Quietly I thanked the Lord, that He had revealed Himself so powerfully to this little one, and that His word had not returned to Him void. I felt, that this hour for Emma, as well as for myself, had contained a good lesson, that we would not easily forget.

“Resist the devil and he will flee from you,” (James 4:4), is the word for us, and that is what that little girl did, for she said God Himself would command him to go from her.

ML 12/09/1945

"Jesus"

With breaking heart, a fond mother is pacing the room, seeking to soothe the pient litle sufferer she holds in her arms, a lovely boy of five summers.

As she gazes into the dear face, she longs to hear from those sweet lips the Name of Him who is soon to fold His tender lamb to His own loving bosom.

“Who loves my darling better than mother?” she softly asked.

The tired lips slowly open, and cleay utter one word— “Jesus.” The one precious Name, which is above every name.

Do you know, dear children, the power of that saving Name? You are not too young to be saved.

A little child of seven,

Or even three or four,

May learn the way to heaven,

Through Christ, the open door.

“I am the Door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved.” John 10:9.

ML 12/09/1945

A Wrong Question

Lukes 20:27-39

Some of the men who came to the Lord Jesus had very wrong thoughts, they died God’s power to raise from death. They knew Jesus taught, the dead would be raised and they must have known also that He had raised to life again, persons who were dead. Yet they thought they could ridicule, or make fun of such power, and they came with this story to Him.

They said there were seven brothers and when the oldest died, the next brother took his wife for his wife, as the law of God to Moses directed (Deut. 25:5). Then that brother also died and the next brother married the wife. At last all had died and the woman died, and these men asked Jesus “whose wife the woman would be when the dead were raised?”

Their story may not have been true but they thought their question too hard for Him to answer. They should have known that the law to Moses was for life on earth, not for after death. Jesus told them they were altogether wrong. that in this world people marry, but in that world, there will be no marriage or family as here, and He said, “Neither can they die any more; for they are equal unto the angels; and are children of God, being children of the resurrection.”

All will be the same in God’s family. But Jesus said they will be “those who are accounted worthy to obtain that world”. How can any be counted “worthy” of that wonderful world where none die? It is written, “There is none righteous, no, not one.” Romans 3:10.

Yet because the Lord Jesus gave His life for sinners, God counts righteous, or “worthy”, those who believe Him, and has said He will raise them from death unto life, and to die no more. But Jesus also taught the people that there would be a time when dead ones will be raised for judgment, not to live with God. Perhaps that was why the men did not want to believe the dead could be raised.

They had spoken of the writing of Moses, and Jesus told them that Moses showed that those who believed God would be raised, when he wrote the words God said to him: “I am the God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob.”

Those men were not then living on earth, yet God said He was their God, and Jesus told the men that God is not the God of the dead, but of the living, so they lived unto Him. Their words for “I am” made this plainer to them than to us, as it meant “the ever existing, or living One”, which shows His power.

There are persons now who are like those men and deny that God will raise the dead, although still more is written of this in the New Testament. It is very sad and wicked not to believe God’s promises. We do not understand His rower but we can believe His words (see 1 Cor. 15:12,13).

“Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear His Voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good unto the resurrection of life; they that have done evil unto the resurrection of judgment.” John 5:28,29.

A Shelter from the Storm

The dear little birds take shelter from the fast falling snow. They have wisdom given to them of God for this, and therefore take advantage of this protection.

This reminds me of a dreadful storm that is coming on this world. God’s sore judgments are going to sweep over this world, and then at the end there will be everlasting judgment; but He has provided the way of escape, a shelter from the dreadful storm, and that shelter is Christ.

Are you wise, dear reader, like the little birds, by taking shelter? In other words have you accepted Christ as your own Saviour, as the One who died for vou to shelter you from the awful judgment that you deserve for all your sins? If wise, you will settle that maer now, and I trust you will be able to say from your heart:

“I do believe, I will believe That Jesus died for me.

If you can say, “Jesus died for me”, you are not only saved from the awful judgment of being separated from God because of your sins, but you are saved to share the glory with the Lord Jesus into which He has entered.

“CHRIST DIED FOR OUR SINS ACCORDING THE SCRIPTURES.” 1 Corinthians 15:3.

ML 12/16/1945

The Bee and the Spider

One day when I was in my garden, my attention was attracted by a loud buzzing. I turned round to see from whence it came and saw a bee that was caught in a spider’s web. It was a large, strong web, and a fat black spider sat in the corner of it, watching the bee attentively, waiting for the moment, when it could pounce upon its prey. The poor bee made every effort to get loose; but the more it moved backwards and forwards, the more it became entangled in the fine threads of the web. The bee was an industrious and useful little creature, that spent its time gathering sweet syrup from the flowers, and mang honey out of it, but with all its cleverness, it could not free itself.

Do you think it would at last sueed in saving itself? O, no, if I had not been there, the big spider would have rushed upon it, sucking out its blood, and would have carried it off to its hiding place and finished it there. Still the bee had wings, fine, shiny little wings, like the threads of the web were twisted around them so that it could not use them. It was fortunate, that not only did it struggle to get out, but that it began to buzz too. The distressed humming attracted my attention, and its desperate efforts to get free, excited my pity. Must I leave that poor little creature to such a cruel death? No, no, not even, if in its terror it should sting my fingers. When the spider saw me appoaching, it moved a little farther away from its prey, and immediately took flight, — when I broke the web. A slight touch of my hand released the prisoner. It flew joyfully to its hive and there its companions soon cleaned its wings of the webs.

Do you understand, dear children why I tell you this little incident? The condition of this poor bee is like that of every child, that is not yet released from Satan’s power by the Lord Jesus. If you are caught in his snares, then he is waiting, like the ugly black spider for a favorable moment, to bring you into the place “where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Like the bee, you can try to release yourself, but all your efforts will only show you that it is impossible, and will make you desperate.

The power must come from on high, and the Lord Jesus possesses that power. He has only to stretch out His hand, to deliver you. When dying on the cross, he conquered Satan. To release you and give you life, he is waing at your side for just one look to Him. O, go to Jesus, before it is too late, let Him break your bonds, and then released and joyful, you can follow Him on the way to heaven. His blood is sufficient, to wash away the sins of all who believe in Him, and He has the power to preserve you from the snares of the devil.

“Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also Himself likewise took part of the same; that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil. Hebrews 2:14.

ML 12/16/1945

A Prisoner's Confession

It was one Sunday morning that a minister was called on to visit a young man, who was in soul trouble. The minister followed the messenger through one street and another till they arrived before the city prison. Both were admitted, and finally the minister found himself in a small cell in the presence of a young man about 20 years of age. The minister was astonished to find so young a man in such a place. But the latter began at once and said,

“I have listened this morning to the ringing of the church bells and I am reminded of the time when I was a happy and carefree Sunday school scholar, which, by the way, seems but a very short time. Had I continued to go, and had taken heed to God’s Word, I should have never come to this place. The beginning of my downward way was a lie I told my mother. A neighbor boy came to me one Sunday morning and asked me to go with him to fish. My mother heard it, and commanded me to go—not with the boy fishing—but to Sunday school. I deceived my mother and went with the boy to the water. It was the first time I lied to my mother. O, that it had been the last! From that time on, I seized every opportunity to lie to mother, till I got so hardened and ungodly that I lost all desire and love for Sunday school, and, sad to say, love to my mother, too. Thus I went on from bad to worse, and while intoxicated, I committed the crime for which I am here, a prisoner, behind the bars.”

Do you see, my dear young reader, what a lie will lead to? How it hardens the heart, unless it is confessed to God and man, and makes one despise God’s Word, and to think of it no more as the Holy Scriptures. A lie led this young man when a boy to disobey his parents and to become a criminal. God who has said, “Lie not one to another,” has also said,

“Honor thy father and mother,” and still further,

“Thou shalt not kill!”

But to the liar, God’s Word has ceased to be holy. He is in that wicked one’s power. So we also read that the devil is called the “father of lies.” It is said that liars shall not enter heaven, hut shall be outside with Satan in hell. We read that “Without are... murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.” Revelation 22:15.

“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.”

ML 12/16/1945

Jesus Died for Me

If Jesus came to seek and save

The wretched and the lost,

I know He came to rescue me,

By sin and misery tossed.

If Jesus died upon the cross

That sinners might be free,

I am a sinner, and I know

That Jesus died for me.

If Jesus bids the weary “Come,

And I will give you rest,”

But a poor weary one, will go,

And in His love be blest.

I know that what He says is true,

He never can deceive;

He says, “Believing, life is thine,”

And I His word believe.

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3:36.

ML 12/16/1945

"The Son of David"

Luke 20:40.47

You remember that the people and children called out to the Lord Jesus as He rode up the streets to the temple, “Hosanna to the Son of David.”

The children who shouted those words, knew the meaning better than we: they had been told such a great King would come, and they knew the promises of Him in the writings God had given; and the words they said were from a psalm, which they sang as we do hymns: “Hosanna” meant, “Save, O Lord, we beseech.” Psalms 118:25.

They knew David had been a great king of their nation, and that God had sent a prophet to tell him one from his family, called his “seed”, meaning heir or descendent, should be King forever (2 Sam. 7:12,16,17).

“My covenant (agreement) will I not break... once have I sworn (solemn, sure promise) by My holiness that I will not lie unto David, his seed shall endure forever, and his throne as the sun...” (Psa. 89:34-36).

Again later a prophet wrote: “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign....” Jeremiah 23:5.

That was why the people called their great King to come, “Son of David”.

It was written this One should come a child (Isa. 9:6), so when Jesus was born where David had lived, and his mother was of a family of the descennts of David, and the angel declared Him to be the chosen One, the “Christ” (Luke 2:11), those who knew the promise, believed the Holy One had come.

Later when Jesus was a man and did the good promised (as Isa. 61:1), and the people felt the power of His holy person, many were happy.

There were men who wanted to prove Him false, and He asked them of the promise to David, for them to think of what had been written. He said, “How say they that Christ (the King expected) is David’s son?”

“The Lord (Jehovah) said unto my Lord, ‘Sit Thou on My right hand....’” Psalms 110:1.

“David therefore calleth Him Lord, how is He then his son?”

The men could not answer the question of Jesus; if they had read the scriptures with interest to learn, they would have known that David fully believed the promise that an heir of his should be King forever, but One far different from all others, that He would be holy and his Lord.

They would have seen this King was also said to be the Son of God: “Yet have I set My King upon my holy hill of Zion... The Lord said unto Me, ‘Thou art My Son’.” Psalms 2:6,7.

This teaches us all the greatness of the Lord Jesus, Whom we do not now speak often of as “Son of David”, but as our Lord and Saviour, because He is waiting for people to trust Him, and be saved from their sins. But it is good for us to know those promises which were fulfilled in Him, so we know that all will come true, and He will some day as surely rule; then all the earth Is give Him honor.

ML 12/16/1945

A Happy Ride

Did you ever take a ride like this? Such fun! We can scarcely imagine a happier looking person than this little girl.

Have you ever been having such a good time that it seemed as if nothing could ever mar your delight? Then suddenly something happened to make you very sad, and you wondered if you could ever feel happy again. Life seems full of such changes.

The pleasures and the sadness we meet in our daily life show in our faces, but there is a peace that nothing can alter.

Some of our readers have that peace with God, because it is ours the moment we believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as the One who died to save us from our sins. Will not the others, this moment, come to Jesus who alone gives us lasting joy and peace?

“THEREFORE BEING JUSTIFIED BY FAITH, WE HAVE PEACE WITH GOD THROUGH OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.” Romans 5:1.

“Having made peace through the blood of His cross.” Colossians 1:20. “He is our Peace.” Ephesians 2:14.

ML 12/23/1945

"Jesus Is Mine"

Jessie R. was a gay and thoughtless girl the first time I met her. She was visiting for a few weeks with her relatives during the holidays. Her cousin, who was a Christian, was very sorry to see Jessie growing up to be a young woman, caring only for the pleasures of the world. She had often spoken to her about Jesus, and told her of the blessedness of being His; but Jessie had always put her off with a laugh and a sneer. Like many young people, Jessie thought that if she became a Christian she would lose all her joy, and have to become very grave and sad.

No doubt many of the young get frightened at conversion, by the miserable-looking faces that some religious people wear. They give one the impression that Christ makes people miserable, and they frighten others away from Him. But, my dear young friends, you must not take your ideas of being saved from such people, for very often it turns out that they are not true Christians at all, but mere religious professors, expecting to get to heaven because they are melancholy, and don’t smile and laugh as other people do. Jesus never made anybody sad and gloomy. He has made thousands of hearts to bound with perfect joy, and filled their tongues with sinng. None are so truly happy as the people whose sins are forgiven.

But I must tell you about Jessie. Meetings for preaching the Gospel were being held in the place where Jessie was spending her holidays, and after much persuasion, Jessie’s cousin got her to promise to go. It was not that she cared a bit for the preaching, but she did not like to be continually refusing her cousin. She went, and was astonished to see everybody so happy. It was entirely different from what she expected. Girls of her own age were there, singing the praises of the Lamb; their very faces beaming with joy. Some of them were her companions in childhood. She knew them long ago, and now they were saved and on the way to heaven. First one, then another of them went up to Jessie, and told her what the Lord had done for their souls. She felt uneasy, and deep down in her heart she wished that their joy was her own. She left that night with her ideas of being saved completely changed. Next night she offered to come of her own accord, and sat deeply ierested. At the close she hung her head, and the tears were glistening in her eyes. She wanted to be happy, but she was not. The world had failed to give her the happiness she sought; and she saw that others had a peace and joy, of which she knew nothing. The hymn was given out and sung by a company of new-born souls with great power and sweetness—

“O, I have got good news for you;

A story wonderful and true:

‘Twill make you happy, that I know;

It made me glad, and now I go

To sing my great Redeemer’s song

With the happy saints above.”

Jessie could not restrain herself. The tears began to course down her cheeks, and she made no effort to hide them. Sitting down by her side, I told her of the One Jesus who came down from God to die that she might be saved, and how He had finished the work, and gone back to sit on the Father’s throne, and was waiting there to gladden the heart of every one who by faith coit their souls to Him.

“Christ died for our sins.” 1 Corinthians 15:3.

“It is finished.” The work of remption was completed on the cross. John 19:30.

“Believe on Him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, Who was delivered for our offenses and was raised for our justification.” Romans 4:24,25, “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1.

I pressed upon her the necessity of immediate decision for Christ, and urged upon her to make Him the Saviour and portion of her soul. I was not very sure whether she did so then or not, but we were all anxious to see her the following evening.

As I was passing on my way to the meeting, she came out of her father’s house with her Bible in her hand. There was no need for asking Jessie if she was saved. The beam of joy in her countenance told its own story. She came up and warmly shook hands with me, saying—

“JESUS IS MINE.”

She has gone back to the busy city, with its temptations and sins; but the “everlasting arms” of her Saviour-God are underneath, to uphold and keep her. She wrote some time ago, to tell us that her joy is still in the Lord, and she does not regret having made Him the portion of her soul.

My dear young friend, “O taste and see that the Lord is good.” For the pleasures of the world are false and unsatisfying; they give no real peace.

“The world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.” 1 John 2:17.

ML 12/23/1945

Your Name

One day when a gentleman was talking to a room full of children and telling them of the love of Jesus in coming down to this world to die for us, he noticed that three little girls on the front seat were paying no attention to what he was saying. They were whispering between themselves, and it was attracting the attention of others near-by.

Suddenly he stopped talking, and pointing to the three girls, one at a time, he said,

“I can tell you what your name is, and yours, and yours.”

This gave them quite a start, for they were sure they had never seen that man before!

“Yes,” he went on, “and I found it in the Book I have here,” holding up his Bible.

By this time everyone was anxious to hear their names, so opening God’s Word he read, “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23.

“Now girls, when God says ALL, whom does He mean? Does that mean you?”

Each one agreed that it took in every person in the world, so the preacher went on to explain that the name SINNER applied to each one who had not yet accepted the Lord Jesus as his or her Saviour.

But “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15, and so God has provided a way by which we can have a new name, by trusting in the Lord Jesus. Of those who do trust in the Lord Jesus as their own Saviour, God has told us in His Word, “Ye are.. the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:26.

ML 12/23/1945

He Carries the Lambs in His Bosom

See the kind Shepherd Jesus stands,

With all engaging charms;

Hark, how He calls the tender lambs,

And folds them in His arms.

Permit them to approach, He cries,

Nor scorn their humble name,

For ‘twas to bless such souls as these

The Lord of glory came.

The feeblest lamb amidst the flock

Shall have its shepherd’s care,

While folded in the Saviour’s arms

‘Tis safe from every snare.

The Smallest Gift

Luke 21:1-4

And He (Jesus) looked up, and saw the rich men casng their gifts into the treasury (in the temple). And He saw a poor widow casting in thither two mites.”

A mite was their smallest piece of money, the two were not of as much value as one cent of our money. So we would think that a very small gift for a grown person to put in. But Jesus did not call it small.

This was at a feast time when the people of that nation came to the temple in Jerusalem from every part of the land, and those also who lived in other countries, and they were all to bring gifts there. They were not told a certain amount to bring, for each was “to give as he was able”. They were called “freewill offerings” (see Deut. 16:10).

No doubt many pieces of money were put in the temple chest, or treasury, that day; yet this is what Jesus said of the woman’s gift: “Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all.”

The smallest gift was the largest! And Jesus told the disciples why that small gift was the most: “For all these have, of their abunnce, cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury (poverty) hath cast in all the living that she had.”

When the others had put in their money they still had plenty left for all their needs, but the woman had no more; she must do without what the two mites would have bought. Since there was not a rule for the gifts, she could easily have kept one mite for herself, but she gave both.

The story of the poor widow will always remind us that the Lord sees everything given for Him, and also that He knows how much each one has left for himself. It is really the love of the heart He values, and that is the first gift to give Him.

Those who love the Lord, are also to help one another in need, and to do good to all (Gal. 6:10; 2 Cor. 9:7).

Jesus called the gifts, “offerings of God”, or for God, and that was why the woman gave all, she meant it for God’s honor. The great temple, or House of God, was then the special place where God was to be most praised, and the gifts were to be used to keep all clean and beautiful.

All things of earth belong to God, so to give is only to return a part to Him, to show our thankfulness to Him (see 1 Chron. 29:16).

The people who love Jesus, give to send copies of the Scriptures to people in other countries who do not have them, and they help men to go to all people to tell them of the love of God and of the death of the Lord Jesus, and in many other ways of giving to Him.

ML 12/23/1945

The End of the Year

In a few days the end of 1945 will close, and who can tell where we shall be when 1946 will have run its course?

Our time is spent in coming and gng, meeting and parting, joy and sorrow, pleasure and disappointment—so each year comes and passes away.

Have you spent the past year for God, or has it been wasted? We must let the past go, and not mourn over it, but press forward, just as the horses in our picture are doing. Are we as anxious to reach our destination as they? They know what awaits them at the end of the journey. Do you, my dear young friend, know what is awaing you?

Each one who is a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ knows something of the joy which is before him—the untold joy of being forever with the Lord in glory.

That which awaits those who have not accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour is untold misery, and dwelling forever with the devil and his angels.

May not one of our dear readers put off a moment longer accepting Gods free gift of salvation through Christ. He wants you to know and believe the love He has shown to you in giving His Son for you, so that you might dwell forever in that glory above with all the redeemed, singing with them, the new song to the Lord.

“THOU ART WORTHY... FOR THOU WAST SLAIN, AND HA3T REDEEMED US TO GOD BY THY BLOOD.” Revelation 5:9.

ML 12/30/1945

Lost in the Field

Nellie’s father was a commercial; often away from home and exposed to temptation in hotels and clubs, where his business led him, and—as many have found in similar circumstances—easily led into habits which in his heart he hated and knew to be wrong. It was a great grief to his young wife, who had left a happy home for his sake, to see her husband become a drunkard and lose all interest in his home, for the company of gamblers and theater-goers, with whom most of his evenings were spent. It was the pain and the sorrow of this that led her in the day of her distress to the Lord Jesus, to find in Him salvation and peace. Since the day of her conversion she had meekly borne the sorrow of her position, and daily prad that God would reach and save her husband.

They had a little daughter whose name was Nellie, and she was a great comfort to her mother. The dear child had learned at Sunday School to sing many of the precious Gospel hymns with which we are all familiar, and she sang them in the house to cheer her lonely mother in the evenings. The day of the Sunday School trip came round, and Nellie was in the country with the rest enjoying a day in the fields and woods. Wandering from the rest while gathering primroses, the dear child became lost in the wood, and when the hour for returning home had come, she could not be found. When they arrived in town and told of Nellie being lost, the mother was frantic with grief, and the father, indifferent as he was, became ashy pale. Four of the male teachers volunteered to accompany him to search for the lost child, and after several hours they found her asleep in a corner of the field, grasping in her hand a bunch of primroses. When he saw the sleeping child he burst into tears, and the four Christian men, seeing the favorable opportunity of pressing home upon him his own lost condion and bringing him into the presence of God, said, “Let us kneel down and thank God for finding Nellie safe and sound.”

He could not demur—indeed he had no desire to do so, for God had spoken to him that day, and he was in deep, soul trouble. When they had finished praying, Nellie’s father was still in tears, and seeing their chance, they pressed home upon him the claims of God and his need of conversion. Willingly did he listen to the truth, and told them how ashamed he was of his conduct toward his wife, and of his sin before God. It must have been there sitting on the green grass that he yielded himself to Christ and was saved by grace. When Nellie opened her eyes and saw her father she hugged him round the neck, and he covered the bright cheek with kisses, saying,

“Daddy is saved and going with Nellie now.”

Lifting the child in his arms, he carried her home with the bunch of primroses in her hand, which in her simplicity she handed to her mother as they entered the house, saying, “Daddy is saved now, Mamma,” which time has proved he truly was that day.

Never does he see a primrose by the wayside, but it reminds him of that day on which Nellie was lost in the field and he was found of the Saviour.

It is a very real thing to be saved. I wonder if you know it yourself personally, reader? You need to be, as surely as Nellie’s father, although you may not have gone so far into open sin as he did. You are a sinner all the same, with a sinful nature, and the only remedy is to accept Christ as your Saviour, and set on the way to heaven. This you will be when, like Nellie’s father, you cast yourself upon Him wholly, Who is “Mighty to save.”

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.

“The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

ML 12/30/1945

The Magnet

What child is there, who, being the happy possessor of a magnet, has not enjoyed some of the many and various ways in which it can be used?

The magnet, as most will know, possesses the peculiar power of attracng to itself, so that when placed near small objects, such as steel filings or needles, it causes them to cling to itself at once.

If a number of pins and needles were together in a saucer, and a large maet were lowered into it, all the needles would at once rise and attach theelves to the magnet, but all the pins would remain unmoved: they are not of a material which answers to the magnet, and so would not be affected by its presence.

Now, the Lord Jesus Christ is like that magnet to many in this world. All boys and girls, and men and women, are divided into two classes—those who love Christ, and those we do not love Him; those whose sins are blotted out by His precious blood, and those who are still unforgiven.

If the Lord Jesus were to return aording to His own word, “I will come again,” all who are Christ’s, all who are loving His appearing—looking for His coming—would be caught up to be welcomed by Him into the Father’s house. These would be like the needles clinging to the magnet. Those who know Him not, and who have dispised His work, would be left behind, shut out forever.

“The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first; then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”

May you be even now so attracted to Christ, the true Magnet, that you may follow Him closely day by day, and be waiting for the moment of His return. He says, “Surely I Come Quickly.”

ML 12/30/1945

"God Is in the Thunder"

One day, a party sailed down the harbor in a boat. The weather was fine when they started. In the afternoon a black cloud arose, the thunder rolled and the lightning flashed, occasioning great alarm among the ladies. One lady was more frightened than the rest; her little daughter nestled towards her; taking her hand, and looking up into her mother’s face with a look of pity and surprise.

“Mother,” said she, “God is in the thunder; can’t we trust Him when He speaks loud, as well as when He speaks easy?”

“Yes, my child,” replied the rebuked mother, with a tear in her eye. “And pray, Mary, that I may have the perfect trust of a little child.”

How precious was little Mary’s faith!

“What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee.” Psalms 56:3.

ML 12/30/1945

A Grand Building

Luke 21:5-20

The disciples spoke to Jesus of the beauty of the temple stones, which must have been very splendid to see, although not the same or perhaps as perfect as those in the first temple, for which King David prepared the most costly and durable material.

This temple was built on the same foundation, and had taken many years to complete, and was greatly admired by all people. All its strength and beauty were to teach the greatness of God, Whose wisdom and power had first placed the rock, the gold, silver, and copper in the earth.

Those solid rocks reminded the people that the One Who had formed them, was their strength and refuge, and for them to trust Him. The high shining pillars taught of His holiness and glory, as also all the ornamenting of gold and silver and very costly precious stones, such as are used in jewelry. More gold and silver were on the inside.

The golden Ark, a beautiful chest made of wood covered with gold both outside and inside, and with a pure gold piece on the top on which were the wonderful carved figures, called “cherubim,” seems to have been lost when the first temple was spoiled. But copies of the words of God to all the prophets were still kept, and from those, the people could learn still more than from the temple itself.

But the men who had charge in the temple did not believe the words of God, or think of His glory and holiness. They taught their own laws to the people instead of God’s (Matt. 15:9), and were dishonest, making money for themselves and taking from the poor (Luke 19:46). They gave no honor to Jesus, the Son of God, whom they should have crowned King and worshiped.

Because of such wickedness, Jesus could not admire the beauty of the building. He knew all must be destroyed, and He said to the disciples, “As for these things which ye behold, the days will come, in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another which shall not be thrown down.”

Those were very sad words to those men who valued the temple so much; but they knew Jesus told them what was true, and they asked Him when that would happen. It is not written that He told them the time, only that He said, “When ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh.”

God gave them time to repent, but at last He let armies surround Jeralem, and break down the great temple, as Jesus said.

Since Christ was rejected in that temple, God has not told anyone to build Him a grand building, yet He has a “House”, but very different: it is made of all the people in the world who believe in His Son; they are called “living stones”, are “chosen of God and precious”, and by the Holy Spirit are to give Him praise, that more may know His love and power than could by that temple (Acts 17:24; 1 Peter 2:4,5).

Read 1 Chro. 29:1-10; Exodus 29:10-22; 2 Chro. 36:14-20. Time of last temple: John 2:20.

ML 12/30/1945

Messages of God's Love: 1945

Table of Contents

Answers to Bible Questions for October

"They Haven't Told Us About That"

A Wedding Invitation

"I Beheld the Lamb of God"

The Wonders of God's Creation

A Leper Made Well

The Rock of Gibraltar

"Hoping"

One Saviour for the Good Child and the Bad Old Man

Pattie's Bible

Sins Forgiven

Decision for Christ

Shall I Have to Bear My Own Sins?

For Charlie's Sake

Yes! All This for You

In the House of Levi

The Grandeur of Nature

Are You Insured?

The Faithful Sailor Boy

"I Hope so, Sir"

The Crust of Bread; and the Bread of God

Two Sabbath Days

Answers to Bible Questions for November

Joy Over Forgiveness

"What will Make You Happy?"

Teaching the Children

Twelve Men

The Photo

Leoni

The Power of a Smile

Lydia, and Her Colored Text

Words of Wisdom

The Queen

Profit and Loss

Jesus Is Always Near

Bill, the Telegraph Boy

Saved in an Orphan's Home

Questions of the Lord Jesus

The Storm at Dunraven Castle

"It is I; be not Afraid"

A Sermon of Eleven Words

A Captain's Faith

Answers to Bible Questions for December

Was it for Me?

Charles and Jane

Giving Thanks

A Great Change

Friends

Too Late!

Emily's Dream

Jesus Is Our Saviour

A Question and the Answer

The Sea Side

The Happy Sunday Afternoon

A Saviour and a Friend

The Game of Wishing

At a Supper

The Telephone

"He Giveth His Beloved Sleep"

Lost for Three Days

Three Grateful Women

Answers to Bible Questions for January

Why Am I Not a Christian?

The Widow's Bible

Moses

The Parable of the Sower

Spring

How a Chinaman Got His Dinner

"Wait or Me"

Safety in Obedience

In a Storm

Crossing the Stream

"Hath"

A Boy and His Sheep

A Well Known Text

Trusting Jesus Only

The Ruler's Daughter

Mount Corcoran