Messages of God's Love: 1981

Freedom is very precious! How would you like to live your whole life without freedom? Peter Strelzyk and Gunter Wetzel were living in a country where they had no freedom. They were willing to risk almost everything to be free from the oppression of communism in East Germany. But the border between communist East Germany and free West Germany was carefully guard. To try to cross it was almost sure death. These two men wanted freedom for their families, but not death. They both were married, and they each had two children. They loved their families and often discussed how they could carry them to freedom.

One day Peter leaped up and shouted, “I’ve got it!” He slapped Gunter on the back. “We’ll go by balloon!”

Gunter looked at him in amazement. “Great, and where do we find a balloon?” “We don’t,” explained Peter. “We build our own.”

Over the next eighteen months the two families built two large balloons. The first one was a complete failure because it was made of the wrong kind of fabric. The police almost caught them in the second one when it landed short of the border. But they were learning from their mistakes. They felt it was worth taking another chance. Carefully they built another balloon. They bought the material from a number of different stores to avoid suspicion. They designed an excellent propane burner system for their hot-air balloon. Now they were ready.

On the evening of September 15 there was a cloudless sky with a stiff wind blowing to the west. It was the night! The two families drove into a dense forest as near to the border as they dared to go. Soon their huge, home-made, hot-air balloon was sailing through the air with both families aboard. They watched in fear as search lights continually criss-crossed the sky where they sailed. Would they make it to freedom?

The oppression of communism is just like the oppression of sin. While it promises freedom, it really takes your freedom away. It is almost impossible to get through the “Iron Curtain” of communist countries. But it is completely impossible to get free from sin without help. Sin is like a wall that separates us from God. What we need is someone to come carry us to freedom from sin and its oppression. Only the Lord Jesus Christ can do that.

Peter and Gunter’s huge balloon was carrying them up and over the dreaded communist border. Yes, they did make it! In just 28 minutes their flight was over, and they were safe and free in West Germany. The balloon had carried them to freedom! And now, the Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ, waits for you to “climb aboard” so that you can be carried to freedom from the oppression of sin. God says, “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” John 8:36. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

ML-01/04/1981

Randy and His Teacher

Randy looked with sad, loving eyes at his first-grade teacher. How he loved the way she looked and smiled! And she knew so many “neat” things to do and play! But why, oh why, did she use the Lord’s name for no real reason? She usually wasn’t even angry. Once he had seen a very angry man swearing, and that was awful! But Miss Jones, well, she just said it so often and so carelessly as if she didn’t care about his precious Saviour. How could anyone not love the Lord Jesus? Why, everyone surely knew that He loved us so much that He came to die for our sins on the cross. Dear Randy! He had come to the Lord Jesus when he was so very young that he had not learned that most men, women and even children have no love for the Lord Jesus. They must have a new heart. He sighed deeply and went back to his writing.

Randy told his mother about it. “How I wish I could help someone to love the Lord Jesus!” Mother had a good idea who that “someone” might be, and she suggested they pray regularly for Miss Jones.

Soon after Miss Jones picked Randy to help her when she had playground duty. As usual it was not long before out popped THE WORD—the name of his Lord. Gently Randy slipped his hand in hers. Looking very, very serious he said, “Miss Jones, you know you really shouldn’t say the Lord’s name unless you are praying to Him.”

She laughed an embarrassed little laugh and answered, “Oh well, Randy, I—uh—well, in a way I am praying—sort of!” But Randy’s round, blue eyes never left her face. He knew it wasn’t true, and so did she. Dropping her eyes and kicking at a little rock she admitted, “I know I shouldn’t do it, Randy. I’ll try to stop it.”

“Because of swearing the land mourneth.” Jeremiah 23:10. “Thine enemies take Thy name in vain.” Psalms 139:20.

Randy’s family moved to another town not long afterward. We are still praying that those faithful, gentle words spoken to Miss Jones that day will cause her to really ask herself honestly, “Why do I use that name? Who really is Jesus Christ?” If she realizes that He is God, and if she cries to Him for mercy, she too can be saved. Wouldn’t that make Randy happy! Even more, “There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:10.

Randy was a brave little soldier for Jesus that day. “Them that honor me I will honor, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.” 1 Samuel 2:30.

ML-01/04/1981

Thieves in the Garden

A poor widow made her living by washing clothes for other people. She had a garden which supplied most of her food.

One night some boys robbed her garden. To make the matter worse they left the gate open, and her pigs came and ruined what was left.

In the morning the widow saw what had happened. She was very upset. She knew she wouldn’t have enough food for the winter because of the great loss.

As she walked around looking at the ruined garden, the widow found a pocketknife with a name engraved on it. It had been dropped by one of the boys who had robbed the garden. Although she knew that boy, she said nothing about the knife. Instead she began to pray that God would save him.

During the winter there were some special Gospel meetings in the town. Among those who got saved was the boy who owned the knife. Not long after, he came to the widow and confessed that he was one of the boys who had robbed her garden.

She told the boy that she had known for quite awhile what he had done, and she showed him the knife she had found.

The boy asked, “Why didn’t you make me pay for the damage to your garden?”

She replied, “I had a better way. I prayed that God would save you from your sins. I knew that if you got saved, you would want to make everything right. Besides, I knew that God would supply my needs.”

The boy learned a lesson from the widow which he never forgot—a true Christian forgives his enemies and prays for them.

“Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.” Luke 6:27,28.

ML-01/04/1981

The Lovely Monarch Butterfly: Part 2

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“I will meditate also of all Thy work, and talk of Thy doings.... Thou art the God that doest wonders.” Psalms 77:12,14.

It is early summer in the Maritime Provinces of Canada and across the continent in Alaska. Great swarms of beautiful orange and black Monarch butterflies have just arrived in these areas after a 2000 mile flight from warm, southern climates. These are the very same butterflies that had migrated south the previous fall.

The milkweed plant grows in large numbers in these areas. It is the only food that the young of the butterflies (not yet born) can eat. The female wastes no time, but flits about depositing eggs on the underside of the leaves of this plant. Using a cement from her own body, she attaches only one egg to each leaf.

Tiny caterpillars, about one-eighth inch long, hatch out in less than a week. They first eat the egg shell from which they have come, and then they eat nothing but milkweed leaves. After about two weeks they have grown to their full size of about two inches. These caterpillars are not at all pretty like their parents. They have a skin with usual coloration of yellow, black and green stripes.

The Monarch’s Creator didn’t intend them to remain ugly and destructive. After reaching full size each caterpillar produces a tough silken thread from its mouth which it anchors under a leaf or twig, and then suspends itself. At this time its final layer of skin peels off, and its exposed body soon hardens in the air, providing a pretty, smooth, waxy, green covering. Wrapped in this it changes into a pupa. During the next twelve days a great change takes place. Finally, what is inside works its way out.

And can you guess what appears? The ugly caterpillar has changed into a beautiful butterfly, wings pressed tightly against its sides, but complete in every way. At once it climbs up on a leaf to rest an hour or more while its wings expand and harden. Suddenly, without the help of any lessons or trial flights, it spreads its wings and flies away, a fully-grown, mature butterfly. From now on it spends its time feeding on nectar.

When the weather gets cooler each butterfly, along with hundreds of thousands more, will leave everything behind for the winter, migrating to southern climates, as outlined in last week’s issue of this paper.

The Lord often has object lessons for us in things of His creation. The unattractive caterpillar reminds us that our lives begin with no purpose except to be “fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind.” Ephesians 2:3. Following these desires we always try to satisfy our appetites with the food of this world. But when God’s love reaches our hearts we learn that by accepting Christ as our Saviour we are transformed, as “a new creature,” now able to “reckon (ourselves) to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:11. The butterfly, transformed from an ugly caterpillar, has a new appetite for what is sweet. And the believer’s appetite should be for the Word of God, which is indeed “sweeter than honey.”

ML-01/04/1981

The Old Stump's Secret

Memory Verse: “Be sure your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23

When Robert was a young boy, he lived in the country. Behind his house there was a great, big garden. And in that garden there were large, ripe watermelons every summer.

One hot summer day, Robert walked through the watermelon patch. As he looked at the melons he wondered what it would be like to have a whole one all to himself. He thought it would be lots of fun to eat one. There were some ripe ones on the vines that he could easily reach. The longer he looked at them, the more he wanted one. Finally, he carefully stepped among the vines and picked off one of the larger ones. Then he hurried over the fence and took the melon behind an old stump.

In his pocket he had his new jackknife. He used it to cut open the melon. Then his eyes got big and his mouth began to water when he saw the nice pink, juicy inside with big black seeds. He ate all he wanted.

But now he couldn’t finish it! What was he going to do with what was left, and what would he do with all the seeds? If he left them lying around, someone surely would see them. So Robert dug a hole right beside the stump and buried them. He did not leave a single seed uncovered. In his heart he thought, “Now no one will ever know!”

What do you think, boys and girls? Would anyone ever know?

The next day Robert carefully carried another melon back behind the stump and ate part of it. They were so good that each day it was a little easier for him to take another one.

At the supper table one evening everyone was happily talking tether until Robert’s father said, “I just can’t understand what’s become of so many of my nice melons. I think somebody is stealing them!”

Robert’s heart felt sick, and he could feel his face getting red. He didn’t dare look up. He felt ashamed of himself when he heard that word “STEALING!”

Somehow Robert was sick of melons after that. He wouldn’t even take a slice at the dinner table. He looked at the old stump many times, but not a trace of his feasts could be seen. Even in the winter when the snowdrifts had covered the old stump, Robert couldn’t forget the melon patch. Do you know why? He knew what he had done was wrong!

One morning the next spring Robert’s father asked him to go for a walk. Robert was glad to go. But why did his father go over the fence and right toward the old stump?

Oh, now he knew why! All around the old stump were young watermelon vines all crowded together and growing all over each other. It looked like every buried seed had become a vine!

Robert’s father said, “Son, the other day when I was passing here I saw something shiny sticking up through the ground. It was your jackknife that you looked for all winter.” And he took the knife out of his pocket and gave it to Robert. Then looking sadly at Robert he said, “I’m afraid the old stump wasn’t very good at keeping the secret.”

The Bible says, “Be sure your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23.

Robert’s father loved the Lord Jesus, but Robert was not saved. God used this experience to show him that he was a sinner and needed a Saviour. Soon after he accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his own Saviour. Have you accepted Him as your Saviour? “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9.

ML-01/11/1981

"Christ Is All"

A great surgeon operated on a little boy whose foot was twisted out of shape. His parents were very poor, but a friend had taken the boy to this well-known surgeon in another city. The operation took several weeks of being in the hospital, the friend came to take the little fellow home. He said to the boy, “What a beautiful hospital you have been in.”

“Yes,” said the boy, “but I love the doctor best.” Then the friend spoke about the nurses and how kind they had been to him. But the boy replied, “Yes, they are kind, but oh! you should see how kind the doctor is.”

When the friend brought the boy home, his mother was very happy to see her son again. Right away she looked at his foot. “Why, it’s just like any other boy’s foot now!” she exclaimed in delight.

But all the time the boy was saying to her, “Mother, Mother, I wish you knew the doctor—the doctor who made me walk!”

Has the Lord Jesus not done a thousand times more for us than the surgeon did for the boy? Should we not speak of His worth and power and goodness? Oh, when we realize how much we owe Him we will feel we cannot praise Him too much or too often. He gave His very life for us on Calvary’s cross.

“The Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20.

ML-01/11/1981

God's Workers

“Your Father knoweth what things ye have need of.” Matthew 6:8.

The old Chinese preacher Wang and his wife lived in a little mud house next to the chapel which was surrounded by a small courtyard. When persecution against the Christians arose, the old couple was told not to leave the courtyard because they might be killed. They had enough rice and other grain in the house to last them for a long time, and Christian friends brought them vegetables. But gradually the wood to cook their food was all used. Wood was hard to find in the countryside where they lived, especially now in the spring when people looked everywhere for dry sticks and grass with which to cook their rice. They could not expect any help from their friends, but they prayed to the Lord about their need.

One morning when they were completely out of firewood, Mrs. Wang went into the courtyard. There at her feet on the ground were some dry branches. She happily gathered them up and soon had a nice fire going, and she was able to cook their breakfast. The old couple ate their meal with thankful hearts.

But where did the branches come from? God has His workers. In the high tree, which was standing in the courtyard, crows were building their nest. As they gathered sticks, grass and branches, they dropped many into the courtyard. They continued to drop them day by day until the little shed was filled with fuel. There were also green twigs with tender leaves on which Wang’s little goat could feed. When the persecution was over, Mr. and Mrs. Wang told their friends how God had provided for their need.

“O give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good: for His mercy endureth Forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so.” Psalms 107:1,2.

“But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19.

ML-01/11/1981

The Dragon Fly

“All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made.” John 1:3.

The dragon fly is a common sight in the summer near water or swampy areas. It is fierce looking, and might even appear a little frightening, but actually it is harmless and another example of God’s wonderful handiwork.

It has four strong, but delicate-looking wings. Since the day of creation it has been able to dart through the air swifter than most birds, with its wings vibrating 1500 times per minute. It can outperform the most expensive helicopter in hovering, flying forward or backward, up or down, or rapidly changing directions. Unlike most insects, the dragon fly’s large head can easily turn to help it spot insects which it eats while flying. The outstanding thing about the dragon fly is its enormous, compound eyes which protrude from its head. Each eye has approximately 30,000 lenses, giving it excellent vision. It can see ahead, behind, above and below all at the same time!

The dragon fly (sometimes called the Devil’s Darning Needle) starts its life as a nymph in the bottom of a stream or pond, usually where there are many rocks and water plants. It creeps along the bottom seeking food, and will eat most anything that moves, including mosquito wrigglers, tiny minnows and tadpoles. It moves very slowly, but can spurt water through its body in a “jet-propulsion” manner, giving it extra speed in an emergency. Most larvae stay under water one or two years, but some remain in that form up to five years.

When ready for adult change, it creeps out of the water at the shoreline and becomes an air breather for the first time. Resting in the warm sun, its skin splits open and a new creature comes forth—no longer an ugly nymph, but a fully-developed dragon fly. Its wings soon appear but a few hours are necessary for them to harden while it remains helpless and a tempting meal for some birds.

Finally it takes to the air, without having had lessons or trial flights. Traveling through the air at rapid speeds, its legs form a scoop-like net in which it pins its victims and transfers them to its strong jaws. Its appetite is huge, eating its own weight in half an hour or so when food is available. It prefers mosquitoes and so is a real help to us.

From the smallest microbe to the great whales, the Creator, the Lord God of heaven and earth, is always aware of the needs of each one. It is written: “Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world.” Acts 15:18.

There are those who teach that life “just happened,” and that it took millions of years for living things to reach their present condition. Such teaching is false and wicked. It denies that God made everything to reproduce “after his kind.” Scripture warns: “Put not your trust in... man, in whom there is no help. His breath goeth forth, he returneth to (the) earth; in that very day his thoughts perish.” Then the Bible goes on to say: “Happy is he... whose hope is in the Lord his God: which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is.” Psalms 146:5,6. Do you know this happiness through faith in Him?

ML-01/11/1981

Child Choking!!

Memory Verse: “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” Jeremiah 32:27

Sheriff Les Brown was covering an unfamiliar area. He hoped he would have a quiet morning, but suddenly the call came over his radio: “Child choking! Handle Code Three!” Even as he received radio directions, he switched on his red lights and siren and sped off.

To save a few moments Les decided to take a shortcut down the unfinished freeway. Just ahead he knew was the street where he should get off. But could it be! There was no exit—it was, indeed, an unfinished freeway! Les was filled with anguish as he leaped from his car. Between him and his road was a deep, wide ditch and a steep embankment.

“God help me!” prayed Les. “There is no time to get another car here. What am I going to do?” And God did help him.

“What’s the matter, Officer?” Les looked up. There, high above him, a man was sitting on a gigantic earth-mover. He must have been two stories high off the ground.

“Child choking to death! I have to get down there, but there’s no road. If I go around, I’ll never make it!”

“Follow me, Officer—I’ll make you a road!” The big earthmover started down the steep embankment, scattering dirt. The huge scoops on either end were full of dirt. He dumped them into the ditch, and in almost no time there was a road. Right behind, Les followed in his Sheriff’s car. The earthmover lumbered down onto the highway, blocking traffic. Les raced past him with his sirens screaming.

A few short blocks and Les was sprinting for the doorway where the child lived. A terrified mother handed him her baby. It was already blue. Was he too late? “God help me!” Les prayed again.

Everything seemed against sang the baby. Perhaps some feel the same about the salvation of their own souls: It is too difficult! My family opposes me! My friends would laugh! I don’t have time! I would have to give up too much! I’m too bad! I’m too good! I just can’t!

Pray Les’s prayer: “God help me!” God can overcome every problem, every barrier. “He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him.” Hebrews 7:25. “Is anything too hard for the Lord?” Genesis 18:14.

God answered Les’s prayer. Les recalled, “All I remember about the next few seconds was grabbing the baby and automatically carrying out the emergency procedures I had been trained to use. An object flew from the baby’s mouth to the floor. It was a button that had mercifully let a tiny bit of air through. The child screamed, turned red, and flailed his tiny fists. He was angry, but he was very much alive!”

The next day Les drove back to the unfinished freeway to find the earth-mover so he could thank the driver. The driver ran toward him and stammered, “The baby... the....” He stopped, too choked up to speak.

Les reassured him, “The baby is all right—thanks to you—you helped save his life. Man, that was teamwork!”

He gulped, “I... I know. But what I didn’t know then was...” (and he whispered) “That was my son.”

Don’t we have a wonderful, prayer-answering God!

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

ML-01/18/1981

Brian

Mrs. Miles enjoyed teaching school and loved to see her students learning every day. She had a student, named Brian, in her fourth grade class who refused to pay attention. He was not learning and was in danger of not passing to the fifth grade. The problem was Brian felt hang a good time was more important than learning. The result was that he would not have his homework assignments done on time, and only once in a while did he answer questions correctly in class.

I wonder if there are any girls or boys reading this who are like Brian when it comes to the Word of God. Perhaps you have never paid enough attention to the Bible to find out that it is a message to you from God. When you read the Bible or listen to it read, do you learn what God wants you to know? God had the Bible written because He has a very important message for you.

One very important thing to learn is “All have sinned.” Romans 3:23. Even though we don’t feel that we are sinners, if we have displeased God even once we are a sinner. Every time we try to hide something we are doing or saying, we are hiding it because we know it is wrong. Hasn’t this happened to you? It proves that God is right when He says, “All have sinned.”

Another important thing to learn is that the result of sin is death. God explains that this death means to be put in a place of awful sorrow and suffering in complete darkness forever; never to be allowed into heaven. Just as Brian’s refusal to pay attention was about to result in his failure to pass into the fifth grade, so our refusal to pay attention to the Bible may result in our missing heaven.

Most important of all we learn that “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15. God loved us so much He gave His Son, Jesus, to die for sinners like us; that anyone who believes in Him will not perish but will have everlasting life. Have you ever admitted to God that you are a sinner? God is now willing to forgive anyone who will admit to Him that they are a sinner and will believe His Word, that Jesus died for sinners.

Are you wondering what the result was of Brian’s failure to pay attention in class? Well, because her class was ahead of schedule in their workbooks, Mrs. Miles arranged for them to have the first hour of each day, for a week, to play any game they chose in the gym. When she made the announcement Friday afternoon, Brian was reading a comic book which he had carefully hidden inside his school book. He was so interested in his book that he again failed to hear anything Mrs. Miles said.

Monday morning arrived and Brian found himself alone in the classroom, alone except for Mrs. Miles that is. Hoping to teach him a lesson she said, “Because you chose not to listen in class you are here by yourself and not in the gym with the rest of the class. Now you may come to class each morning the rest of this week and write for an hour, instead of going to the gym. It is important to pay attention.”

I only hope Brian learned a lesson from all that happened to him. His punishment only lasted for a week, but the punishment for sin is forever, never to end! So learn a lesson from Brian: pay attention to the Word of God that says, “Now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2. Confess to God that you are a sinner and that you want Jesus as your Saviour, and you will be saved from the results of sin and death. Romans 10:9-13. “The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

ML-01/18/1981

Unusual Incubator Birds

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“And out of the ground the Lord God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air.” Genesis 2:19.

Among the many strange birds in Australia and nearby areas are those called “Incubator,” or “Thermometer” birds. They have very strong legs and feet.

The Incubator birds do not hatch their eggs by sitting on them, as most birds do. They depend on a very different method of incubation (from which they get their name). Several pairs of males and females working together make a mound of dirt, mixed with leaves, moist vegetation and most anything that is handy.

Walking with their backs toward the spot where the mound is to be, the birds move around it in ever-widening circles, using their strong legs to kick everything they find into a central pile. As the pile gets bigger their circles become wider and wider, until there is a hill as high as fifteen feet and perhaps thirty feet wide. Just think how hard they have to kick to get dirt, leaves, and everything else up on top of that pile!

Next, each pair picks a suitable spot in the mound and makes a tunnel in it, scooping out a crude “nest” at the end, where the eggs are laid. Then the pair walk away and forget all about the eggs. How are they ever going to hatch inside that big pile? As the leaves and other vegetation rot they give off heat, and helped by the warmth of the sun, the eggs soon hatch and the baby birds come out into daylight to start life “on their own.”

Why do these birds do such unusual things? Who told them to work together with others to make such huge nests? What makes the little ones leave the tunnels, and how can they take care of themselves when outside? None of these are things they could teach themselves or learn from experience. We can easily see that it pleased the Creator to make a great deal of variety in His creation. Not all birds, animals, fish, or other creatures follow the same manner of life. These birds are an example of this, displaying one of His delights in the days of creation. Now He keeps them in the same pattern of life as when He first placed them on the earth. “Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did He in heaven (the atmosphere), and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places.” Psalms 135:6.

If the Lord cares for these strange birds, how much more does He care for mankind in whom He “breathed the breath of life.” He has said: “My delights were with the sons of men. Now therefore hearken unto Me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep My ways. For whoso findeth Me findeth life.” Proverbs 8:31,32,35.

We hope everyone reading this will find Him and learn of His wonderful love. “I love them that love Me; and those that seek Me early shall find Me.” Proverbs 8:17.

ML-01/18/1981

Ted the Paper Boy

Memory Verse: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

Oh, it was so cold. Ted was delivering the papers alone for the first time. All last week he had gone with Hal who had had the route for four years. Now Hal was moving and Ted was hoping to take it over. He had been given a trial period by the route manager.

“I should have put on warmer gloves,” thought Ted as he lowered his head into the wind, “but I’m almost done.” He turned his jacket collar up around his neck and put his hands into his pockets and walked down the block toward the last house on the route.

About halfway down the block an old lady walking toward him stumbled and dropped her purse. The purse opened and things scattered all over the sidewalk. Ted helped her pick up everything, and then she thanked him and continued down the street. Just then Ted noticed a small case in the grass beside the walk. He picked it up and ran after the lady. She was so happy to get it back that she even asked him his name and where he lived.

As he turned to walk back to where he had left his paper bag, he watched as the wind caught the last paper in the bag and scattered it down the street towards him. He managed to catch all the pages, and with difficulty in the wind he was able to get the paper together again. It was torn and wrinkled, but at least all the pages were there.

As he turned into the last house to put the paper between the front doors, an old man opened the door. “I’m sorry, sir,” Ted said, “but the wind caught the paper and scattered it. All the pages are here, but it’s a little messed up.”

The old man grumbled, “They shouldn’t allow careless little boys like you to deliver the paper. I’m going to complain.”

As Ted returned home he was so upset that tears ran down his cheeks. He had tried so hard, and now there would be a complaint and he might not get to keep the route. When he got home he told his mother the whole story.

“Let’s tell the Lord about it,” she suggested. They knelt down and in their own quiet way each told the Lord Jesus about the problem.

Isn’t it wonderful that we can tell all our troubles to the Lord Jesus. He loved us so much that He died on the cross to wash our sins away. Now He wants us to bring all our problems to Him in prayer.

The next day there was a knock on the door. Ted’s father opened the door. There stood the old man who had grumbled at Ted the day before.

“Does Ted Miller live here?” he asked.

“Yes, come in. I’ll get him,” said his father.

Ted had been standing just inside the kitchen and had heard the man at the door. He walked into the room even before he was called. “I’m sorry about the paper yesterday,” he said almost crying.

“Don’t worry about that, son,” said the old man. “I want to thank you for helping my wife yesterday when she dropped her purse. That case you found and returned to her contained a very valuable ring. I want to give you a reward for being so honest.” He handed Ted a check for $25.00.

Ted and his parents thanked the old man very much. As he turned to leave he said to Ted, “If you have any spare time on Saturdays I can use some help down at the bike shop on Oak Street that my son and I have.”

After he left they all knelt down and thanked the Lord for hearing and answering their prayer in such a nice way.

Isn’t it wonderful to be able to go to the Lord with our problems? First of all you must know Him as your Saviour. You must confess that you are a lost sinner and then accept Him and His work on the cross as the only remedy for that sin. Then as one of His children we can take everything to Him in prayer.

“Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28. “Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.” Psalms 50:15.

ML-01/25/1981

Can God Provide?

“Halt, or we’ll shoot!!” came the rough command from the shadows along the deserted road.

The two young Chinese missionaries stopped and quickly put up their hands. They had walked fifteen miles that day, and it was now late in the afternoon. They were beginning to look for a place to stay for the night, but this command stopped them!

Ling and Sun stood very still as the bandits moved toward them. They had guns in their hands, and the men looked very rough. “Give us your money!” one of them demanded.

“All the money we have is in our bundle,” explained Ling. “We are missionaries telling about the love of the Lord Jesus Christ for men just like you.”

“Quiet!” said the leader of the bandits as they searched through the missionaries’ belongings.

The bandits found the small roll of paper money, took it and quickly moved back into the bushes. They left the missionaries’ Bibles, hymnbooks and changes of clothing, but with only seventeen cents. Ling and Sun were fifteen miles from home with no food, no place to spend the night and no money to buy the things they needed. They knelt down beside the road and thanked the Lord for keeping them from being hurt by the bandits. Then they asked that their present needs might be taken care of, if it was His will.

As they continued walking again along the road they were startled by someone running up behind them. But instead of the rough command to “Halt!", a gentle voice somewhat out of breath said, “I wish you peace. My name is Ping An. What are your names?”

“Mine is Ling,” replied the older one. “This man’s name is Sun. Ping An is a Christian name. Are you a Christian?”

“Yes,” said Ping An. “I know the Lord Jesus Christ as my own Saviour. Will you come and spend the night in my home?”

“I don’t understand,” answered Ling. “You don’t know who we are.”

“Yes, I do,” replied Ping An. “You are Christian missionaries, and you were robbed by bandits about one mile down this road.” Ping An went on to explain: “I was working in the field back there and saw the bandits stop you. Of course, I could not get right up close to see what was happening. I was able to get close enough to hear you say you were gospel preachers, and I saw them take your money. I also saw you kneel and pray.”

“I went back to my work not knowing what to do, but a voice inside of me said, ‘Follow those men and invite them to your home."'

That was how God provided for Ling and Sun. They found Christian friends and were taken to their home. They had good food, a good place to sleep and they didn’t even have to use their seventeen cents. When they left the next day they carried a gift of money to pay for the day’s expenses. Can God pride? Ask the missionaries, Ling and Sun.

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

ML-01/25/1981

The Praying Mantis

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works.” Psalms 145:9.

Late in the autumn the female Praying Mantis lays one hundred or more eggs on the branch of a low bush, carefully placing them layer on layer to make a pile about the size of a walnut. Then she makes a foam that looks like beaten egg whites and covers them with this frothy material. This will protect them from the cold as they remain on the limb through the winter.

When spring warmth comes, the eggs hatch and the little ones wriggle out to start a life of eating other insects. Sometimes the stronger ones even eat the weaker ones before they get away. Exposed to the air their skin promptly hardens, but as they grow it splits open and drops off. This process (called moulting) is repeated several times until by mid-summer they have finished their growth and their wings appear.

The Praying Mantis is always silent, and the curious thing about it is the way it catches its prey. Green and brown in color, it is camouflaged to look just like part of the plants on which it climbs. Finding a suitable spot, it lifts up its arms, making it look like it is praying, and remains perfectly still until some unsuspecting victim comes along.

It usually doesn’t have to wait very long before a beetle, caterpillar, hornet, fly, or even a mouse or small snake—not aware of the danger—comes too close and is captured. The front legs of the Mantis have sharp spikes, and once the victim has been grasped it has no change of escape. But at least its death is quick and merciful. The Mantis seems to know the nerve centers are located in the back of the neck, and immediately on making its catch it bites through these nerves, bringing instant death.

Of course the Praying Mantis isn’t really praying, because it doesn’t know anything about God who is watching over it and providing its food. It doesn’t know this One that taught its mother how to protect her eggs and has shown it how to care for itself—things it could never learn to do with its small brain. Its ways seem cruel, but since it destroys many bad insects it is a friend of every gardener and should not be harmed by any of us.

In observing the ways of this insect we see another example of the way God has arranged for the care of one more of His creatures, and at the same time providing a necessary means of helping to control insects that are harmful.

Its manner of life, as it appears to be praying (but is actually waiting to catch something), makes us think of those who do not really know the Lord as their Saviour, yet they pretend to be “religious.” The Lord saw many people like this when He was on earth, and on one occasion said: “Beware of the scribes, which love to go in long clothing... and the chief seats in the synagogues, and which devour widow’s houses, and for a pretense make long prayers.” Mark 12:38-40.

But to those who sincerely seek Him the promise is: “The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon Him, to all that call upon Him in truth.” Psalms 145:18. He will always hear your prayer when you speak to Him with a true heart.

ML-01/25/1981

Tell the Truth

Memory Verse: “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13

“CRASH” went the glass from the window as it shattered onto the back porch! Keith stared at the broken window.

“I didn’t know I could throw a football that far,” he thought as he ran up to see the mess he had made. “I guess I shouldn’t have thrown it toward the house.” The very first time he had thrown his new football made Keith realize that he was bigger and stronger than the year before. It had been a nice spiral, too, but it went right through the back porch window!

“Daddy and Mother are going to be mad at me when they get home,” he thought to himself. “I’ll probly have to pay for the new window, and I hardly have enough money to buy Mother’s birthday present.”

“Maybe, just maybe I don’t have to tell them I did it. If they ask me I’ll have to tell them, but if they don’t ask me, then maybe it won’t be like lying.”

Suddenly he remembered what his Sunday school teacher had said just the week before. They had been reading in Acts 5 about Ananias and his wife, Sapphira, and what happened to them when they lied.

“Boys,” his teacher had said, “truth is something that we cannot prize too much. There is nothing such as ‘a little white lie’ in God’s sight. Those who are not Christians think nothing of lying about something if it will help them. But the judgment that fell on Ananias and Sapphira shows what God thinks about lying. Yes, boys, a lie is an awful thing and often it is just the beginning of a path of sin. Also, remember that an acted lie is just as bad as a spoken lie. Someday, perhaps one of you may be tempted to hide something by keeping silent. In God’s sight the sin is the same. When Satan tells you to keep quiet, ask God to help you to tell the truth and to confess your sin. He will help you and give you the strength to do what is right and pleasing to Him.”

Just then Keith’s parents drove into the driveway. As Keith ran to the front of the house he silently asked God for help to tell his father just how the accident had happened.

Keith’s father immediately saw that something was bothering him. “What's wrong, Keith?” he asked. “You look like you have something to tell me.”

“Yes, Father, I do,” said Keith, and his voice trembled a little as he spoke. “I’m very sorry, but I broke the back porch window.”

“How did it happen?” asked his father.

“I threw my new football toward the house, and it went lots further than it’s ever gone before! I wasn’t being careful. I’ll pay for the new window.”

“That’s all right, Son,” said his father quietly. “Accidents happen. I’m just glad that you came to tell me right away. I would rather have every window in the house broken than have you try to hide something by lying.”

As they talked more about it, Keith told him how he was tempted not to say anything about the window, and how he had remembered what his Sunday school teacher had said.

“Son,” said his father, “I’m happy to see that you’ve learned a lesson today. It is so easy to be guilty of lying even without opening your mouth. I hope you’ve learned something else, too. Never trust in your own strength. When you’re tempted to do something wrong, ask God for help to do what is right.”

“Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips, and from a deceitful tongue.” Psalms 120:2.

ML-02/01/1981

Sokonyi

As we traveled in Africa many years ago, we came upon a small village far from the mission station. It was about noon, and we heard sweet singing from the center of the village. The villagers were singing hymns praising the Lord and honoring His precious name. We waited as the young man who was leading the singing spoke about the Lord Jesus from the book of Mark. At that time this was the only part of the Bible translated into the language of that part of Africa.

Afterward we talked with the young man who had spoken so nicely. His name was Sokonyi. He loved the Lord Jesus Christ and often traveled to other villages to tell them about the Saviour. He told us the following story.

One day he had gone to a nearby village and had gathered the people together to read from the Gospel of Mark. In the crowd was a young woman who could not speak. The Lord touched her heart. She raised her hand showing she wanted to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. Scarcely had she done this when there was a strange feeling in her mouth. The Lord had loosened her tongue. After the meeting she realized she could talk. How amazed the people were, as well as herself. She could speak!

Sokonyi returned home. But it wasn’t long before the young woman and her friends went to his village to tell what had taken place.

She not only could talk, but joined in singing hymns at the usual noon-day meeting.

Sokonyi made a trip to the mission station to relate what the Lord had done to the young woman. He wanted it known that all he did was read God’s Word. The Lord had performed the miracle!

How powerful is the Word of God! “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword.” Hebrews 4:12. “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.

ML-02/01/1981

A Child's Trust

“Why doesn’t Jesus visit us sometime, Mommy?” asked four-year-old Gail.

“Because Jesus is up in heaven,” answered her mother.

“Can’t Jesus fly in an airplane like Daddy does sometimes?”

“Jesus does not have to fly in an airplane, because even if His body is in heaven, He is also with us. Before He went back to heaven, He said that He would be with us all the time.”

“But, Mommy, I can’t see Jesus.”

“No, we can’t see Jesus, but we know that He loves us and is with us because of the wonderful things He does for us. There are many real things we can’t see with our eyes. You can’t see my love for you, but you know that I love you because of the many things I do for you.”

The next day Gail was sick. She said, “Mommy, I know Jesus is with us and I’m going to ask Him to make me well.” Then she knelt down beside her bed and prayed, “Dear Lord Jesus, please make me well. I know You love me, and I love You. Amen.”

God wants all of us to have a simple, childlike faith in Him. “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.” Mark 10:14.

ML-02/01/1981

The Pika - A Mountain Farmer

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“The eyes of all wait upon Thee; and Thou givest them their meat in due season.” Psalms 145:15.

Not many have heard of the Pika. This little animal measures only a little over six inches long and weighs only about half a pound. But what it lacks in size it makes up for in energy. In North America it is found only among the rocks high in the mountains of western United States and Canada.

The outstanding thing about a Pika is its busy activity in the summer months. It wisely prepares food for use in wintertime, when the snow will lie deep and it must stay in its den with its family. Unlike many mountain animals it does not hibernate, but does remain quite inactive during the cold season.

While cutting and gathering plants, flowers, berries, aspen leaves and other vegetation growing around its home, it is constantly in motion during the summer and fall. God has provided this cute little animal with four incisor teeth on the upper jaw to do all this work. A lot of food is necessary, because one little Pika family will need about fifty pounds of dried food during the cold winter days while confined inside the den.

Everything it cuts or gathers is brought near the entrance of its cave and, like a farmer preparing his hay, piles it in separate mounds in the sunshine to dry in the clear air of the mountains. When rain threatens, it carefully picks up these piles and carries them inside the cave, bringing them back out for further drying when the sun shines again. My, what a busy little fellow he is!

Where did it get this wisdom? And how does it know how to store the foodstuff underground so it will not mildew or rot away? This wisdom is given to it by God who, in creating everything “after its kind,” has provided for its unique way of life. This is passed down from generation to generation, without the need of lessons or experiments. If it didn’t know how to do this it would die the very first winter of its life. The divine Creator watches over everything He has made and provides for the needs of each one in His own wise way.

Living so far from civilization the Pika is much like the coney spoken of in Proverbs 30:26: “The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks.” Eagles, hawks and many animals are enemies of this quiet little fellow, but when sheltered by the rocks, into which he hurries when they come close, he is perfectly safe.

When David was delivered from his enemies he said: “The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; the God of my Rock; in Him will I trust.” 2 Samuel 22:2,3. He is the only refuge from Satan, our dread enemy. Do you know Him as the Rock of your salvation?

ML-02/01/1981

Buck

Memory Verse: “As for me, I will call upon God; and the Lord shall save me.” Psalm 55:16

Buck was a big Siberian Husky dog who lived in the Northwest Territories of Canada. He was owned by a trapper named John. Buck was the lead dog of John’s dog-sled team in the winter. At other times of the year he traveled with John, sitting in the front of his canoe.

John and Buck, with two other trappers, Hans and Pete, were traveling down the Forty-Mile River. At one spot on the river there was a dangerous section of rapids. The men decided to “line” the canoe down the rapids rather than to carry it around them. John stayed in the canoe while Hans and Pete moved along the bank, holding the canoe with a long rope. They frequently had to wrap the rope around trees to slow the canoe down, because the current in the river was so fast. John used a long pole to push the canoe away from rocks, and shouted directions to the men on shore. Buck, worried and anxious, was on the shore but kept abreast of the boat, his eyes never off his master.

At a particularly tricky spot where a ledge of rocks jutted out into the river, Hans gave plenty of slack line to John, who poled the boat out into the stream. Hans then ran down the shore with the end of the rope and tied it loosely to a tree. The boat caught in the swift current and went wildly downstream, stopping with a sudden jolt when it got to the end of the rope. The jolt was so hard that John was thrown out of the boat and carried downstream toward the worst part of the rapids: a stretch of wild river in which no swimmer could survive!

Buck leaped into the water as soon as John fell in. Three hundred yards downstream, in a mad swirl of water, he overtook John. When he felt John grasp his tail he headed for the bank, swimming with all his splendid strength. While the progress towards shore was slow, the progress downstream was amazingly fast! Around the bend in the river came the roar of the current as it thundered down a steep ravine to rocks below.

Just as John’s only hope was in the strength of Buck, each one of us also needs help from someone else. As sinners we are as those “having no hope, and without God in this world.” Ephesians 2:12. But God has supplied the help we need to go to heaven; it is through the Lord Jesus Christ. “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” John 14:6. By accepting Him as our Saviour and by believing that His blood can wash us from all our sins, then we can say, “But now, in Christ Jesus, ye who sometime were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.” Ephesians 2:13.

Just as John thought they wouldn’t reach the shore in time, his foot scraped roughly over a rock, then a second and a third. Finally, there was one he could touch with his hands. He clung to its slippery top with both hands, so had to let go of Buck. Above the roar of the churning water he shouted, “Go, Buck! Go!”

Without the drag of John’s weight, Buck swam powerfully to shore and was helped up the bank by Pete and Hans. Pete had the rope with him that had been used to line the boat. They tied the rope to Buck’s neck and shoulders, being careful so that it wouldn’t strangle him or hinder his swimming. Buck seemed to understand that he was to take the rope to John.

They took Buck upstream from where John clung desperately to the rock before letting him jump out into the raging water. He swam directly into the current as Hans and Pete kept the rope from tangling on the rocks. Buck swam out until he was on a line straight above John. Then he turned and, swimming with the current, rushed toward John. John saw him coming. As Buck struck him with the full force of the current behind him, John quickly clasped both arms around the shaggy neck.

When Hans and Pete were sure that John had a firm hold around Buck, they pulled on the rope with all their might. The force pulled both John and Buck under the water. Kicking and struggling to the surface they were pulled over the jagged rocks and snags. They finally lay exhausted on the shore. John was cut up and bruised, and Buck had three broken ribs, but they were alive and safely on shore.

John owes his life to the love and strength of Buck. We, too, owe everything to the love of God. He loved us so much that He sent His only Son to save us. Have you accepted that love? Like John, have you accepted the salvation that has been offered to you? Have you taken the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour? “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

ML-02/08/1981

He Found a Bible

As he slowly pushed open the creaky, old door, dust and dirt fell on him. Leoncio went in anyway. The old adobe hut had been empty for many years. He passed by it every day on his way to work in Tacabamba, Peru.

In one of the small rooms he found some old school books. Along with them he also found another old book. He brushed it off, but it was still musty smelling from being damp and old. He opened it up to the title page: Santa Biblia (Holy Bible).

Leoncio had never had a Bible of his own. He had never even read one. He sat down on an old wooden bench and began to read. This book was very interesting. Several hours went by. When he finally decided he’d better start for home, he took the Bible with him.

During the next few weeks, he spent every spare minute he had reading the old Bible. He soon saw that he was a sinner and needed a Saviour. Soon after, Leoncio accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his own Saviour.

“You are foolish!” said his father when Leoncio first told him about his “new Friend.” But Leoncio went on reading his Bible anyway, and talked about it to his family.

One day one of his brothers also accepted Christ as his Saviour. After that, one by one, all of Leoncio’s brothers and sisters became Christians. But his father and mother would not accept “this new idea.” “How can you be saved when you haven’t gone to the church?” they would ask. Leoncio would explain that the Bible contained all of God’s words and that they could read it themselves.

After many weeks of praying for his parents and reading the Bible out loud to them, Leoncio’s parents also found peace through accepting the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savioiur. They not only had heard God’s words, but they saw how it had changed the lives of their children.

It was an old and musty Bible, but God used it to bring new life to a family.

“For I have given unto them the words which Thou gavest Me; and they have received them,... and they have believed that Thou didst send Me.” John 17:8.

ML-02/08/1981

The Land-Otter

The Wonders of God’s Creation

"(God) made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is.” Psalms 146:6.

The land-otter is a streamlined, beautiful animal, wearing a thick, warm fur coat. It has a slim body, about three feet long, and it weighs ten pounds or more. It is found throughout Canada, Alaska and the United States.

With whiskers and bright active eyes, this is one animal that seems to have been given the ability to really enjoy life. It acts as though it didn’t have a care in the world. It loves to play all kinds of games with other otters, even wrestling and playing hide-and-seek together. Just about any loose item it comes across becomes a plaything. They are famous, too, for making smooth slides down mud or clay banks into the water. Both young and old alike spend hours gliding down these slides. They seem to enjoy the sensation and the cool hath at the end of the slide. On snow they sometimes make a quick run, then fold their legs under them for a fast, exciting slide on their smooth stomachs, just as a boy or girl might do with a sled.

Their homes are usually dug in the bank of a pond or river, the entrance being under water, but the living area is high and dry and lined with grass. Sometimes they will use an abandoned burrow of some other animal. Four or five “pups” (as their babies are called) will be born each year. Water is the otter’s natural home, but even so, the “pups” have to be taught to swim. They soon become very skillful at it and easily catch fish and small water animals for their food. Their diet also includes crawfish, frogs, and a snake or two.

This pretty animal does have enemies, such as coyotes, foxes, badgers, etc., but is so fast on its feet that it can only be caught when taken by surprise. If a fight results, it usually gets the best of its enemies, because it has very sharp teeth and claws.

Their habits are certainly amusing, and we can’t help but envy how happy they are in their way of life. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if human beings could live together in such a happy way? Sorry to say, the human race seldom does so, because of the evil nature that lives within us. Satan takes advantage of it in every possible way. Scripture refers to us as “fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath.” Ephesians 2:3.

But there is One who can change our hearts; “Our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar (special) people, zealous of good works.” Titus 2:13,14.

When we know this One as our own personal Saviour, we receive a new nature and can say with the Psalmist: “But let all those that put their trust in Thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy,... let them also that love Thy name be joyful in Thee.” Psalms 5:11.

(In the next issue we hope to look into the life of the Sea-Otter, a close relative of the Land-Otter.)

ML-02/08/1981

Chief Sundu

Memory Verse: “When we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son.” Romans 5:10

Very slowly and quietly Chief Sundu climbed the steep cliff toward the vulture’s nest. I wondered what he was going after; the eggs or the mother vulture? As I watched from the thick jungle around the clearing near the cliff, I soon saw what the chief was after: a 20-foot-long snake, a python, which was also very slowly moving toward the nest. The python wanted the eggs, but Chief Sundu wanted the snake! There would be lots of good meat for the people in his village if he could kill that huge snake. The chief slowly drew back his spear, aiming it at the python’s head.

I had met Chief Sundu several weeks earlier. I was a missionary in Africa, traveling to different villages to preach the gospel. I had asked permission from Chief Sundu to have a gospel meeting. He had answered angrily, “You cannot come here! Get out at once!” I had returned to the mission station, but continued to pray that God would open the way to preach in that village.

I had left early that morning on another trip going near Chief Sundu’s village, but I was not planning to go to his village. Along with my backpack and Bible I also carried a rifle. There were reports of tigers seen in this area of the jungle. As I walked along the narrow path I again thought of Chief Sundu and his village. I quietly asked the Lord to show me how I could get permission to preach in that village.

As I walked along the trail, I saw a clearing ahead. Before I reached the clearing, I could see the hunting party watching Chief Sundu as he stalked the python. I hid in the jungle where I could watch.

Just as Chief Sundu was taking careful aim at the snake with his spear, the mother vulture dove at the snake. She had been flying overhead in circles, squawking loudly. Then in desperation she attacked the python, making long gashes on its body with her talons. As the snake backed away from the nest, it spotted the chief and quickly coiled part of its body around the chief’s leg. He threw his spear at the huge snake, but it missed! The snake continued winding itself up around the chief’s body and started to squeeze. There was nothing the hunting party could do, since the snake was too far up the cliff to reach with their spears. I knew that Chief Sundu would soon be crushed to death by the snake.

Without stopping to think what the hunting party might do to me, I ran into the clearing at the base of the cliff. I braced myself against a rock and, taking careful aim with my rifle so that I wouldn’t hit the chief, I fired three quick shots into the head of the python. As it slowly lost its grip on Chief Sundu, the hunting party ran up the cliff and helped him down.

When Chief Sundu reached the bottom of the cliff, he ran to me, saying in his language, “Thank you, thank you for saving my life!”

Then I knew that this was the answer to my prayer, and said, “Chief Sundu, I have saved your life. In return I ask permission to preach to your people. Satan, the Evil One, has them bound in sin just like you were bound in the python’s coils. No one can free himself, just like you were not able to free your self. I have freed you from the python, but only the Lord Jesus Christ can free you and your people from the power of Satan. May I have permission to tell your people about the Lord Jesus Christ and how He can save them?”

The proud chief looked at me and answered, “Yes, my people will listen to your story.”

The Lord had opened the way into that village. During the years that followed, Chief Sundu and many of his people accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their own personal Saviour.

As you read this story, what are your thoughts about the Lord Jesus Christ? The Bible asks the question, “What think ye of Christ?” Matthew 22:42. What is your answer—a good teacher? a great man? Or can you say, like the apostle Paul, that He is “The Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20. He died for you on that cross. He suffered there for your sins. Do you know that you are a sinner and need a Saviour? Chief Sundu had refused to listen to the story of Jesus and the cross. Don’t be like Chief Sundu and refuse Christ. Don’t put it off until sometime later. It may be too late then. Accept Him as your own Saviour now.

ML-02/15/1981

Noah Webster

Noah Webster was the man who put together the first American dictionary. If it were not for him, we might be speaking an entirely different style of English in New York than our friends speak in California.

He was born in 1758 on a farm near West Hartford, Connecticut. As a boy, he loved to read. It was all his father could do to get him away from his books long enough to help with the farm chores. Although his family did not have much money, Noah was able to earn enough money to go to college. After graduating he became a lawyer, but practiced only for a short time and then he started teaching.

While teaching school in the 1780's, he wrote a beginners spelling book, a grammar book and then a reader for school children. Millions of copies of the speller were sold, which helped to standardize spelling and pronunciation in the United States. After this he spent most of his time working on his dictionary. It took more than thirty years to complete, because language was changing so fast with new discoveries in almost every area of life.

When he was about forty years old, he began to wonder if all his work was what really mattered most in life. He wondered if he had been building his beliefs on what he had done, rather than on God’s mercy toward him. One day he told his wife and three children, “Starting today, I’m going to study the Bible until I find out what really counts!”

This was the beginning of a very important time in Mr. Webster’s life. He studied the Bible as carefully as he had worked on his dictionary. God was working in him. The more he read, the more he understood what a proud sinner he really was. Late one night he got down on his knees and asked God to forgive him. He confessed that he was a sinner and accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour. He saw that the work that the Lord Jesus had done on the cross was everything, and that his own life and work were nothing. “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8,9.

The next morning Mr. Webster told his family about his Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. They began to read the Bible and pray together each day. Soon they also confessed the Lord Jesus as their Saviour.

Mr. Webster found out what many of us have learned; that we can’t trust ourselves or our own thoughts as to what is right or wrong. We need God’s thoughts as shown in the Bible. It is there we see what we are in God’s sight— “gone astray” and in need of help from Him. Have you accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour? “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.

ML-02/15/1981

The Sea-Otter

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did He in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places.” Psalms 135:6.

Last week we learned about the ways of the land-otter. The sea-otter is quite similar to it, but somewhat larger, growing up to five feet in length and weighing about one hundred pounds. It, too, has a beautiful dark brown fur, which for many years was prized for making ladies’ coats. It is rather fussy about its handsome appearance and spends hours grooming itself, ruing its fur with its paws.

The sea-otter spends most of its time in salt water. It makes its home in thick beds of kelp (seaweed) where it is quite safe from seals and killer whales, two of its enemies. Before going to sleep, it wraps itself in strands of the kelp, so it won’t drift away. However, sometimes it has been seen napping in the open water on its back with its eyes covered with its forepaws. The “pups” are born in the kelp beds and are totally helpless. In fact, they can’t swim until their mother teaches them. She holds them up with her forepaws, much as a man might hold a child while teaching it to swim. The mother also has to help the little one find its milk and she also cleans it continuously.

The Creator has provided this animal with ears and a nose that seal tightly when it dives. He placed its eyes near the top of its head so it can see while almost totally under water. As might be expected, it is an excellent swimmer and can swim long distances at a great depth.

It always seems hungry and eats at all hours. One of its favorite foods is abalone, a shellfish that clings tightly to rocks near the bottom of the ocean. The otter can’t pry these loose, but takes a rock from the bottom and smashes the abalone’s shell to get at the meat. It also brings clams and other shell-food to the surface, at the same time bringing along a good-sized stone. Swimming on its back, it places the stone on its chest. It smashes the clam down on the stone to break its shell and then enjoys its meal. It often eats a fish in a similar way, holding it on its chest until eaten.

Like the land-otter, the sea-otter loves to play and is full of fun, often chasing one another through the water. They have been seen lying on their backs in the water, tossing a stick in the air. They catch it in their paws before it hits the water. Over and over they repeat this, just like a boy tossing a ball into the air and catching it in his mitt.

It is amazing that creatures such as this go on year after year and century after century doing the same things and being provided for in the same way, with never a lesson to help them learn. But this should not surprise us when we stop to think that God made every one of His creatures in just the way that would best suit it for its life’s pattern and purposes. He also said at the time of creation: “Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind... and it was so ... and God saw that it was good.” Genesis 1:24,25. So we should not expect any of these beings to change from one form to another because that would be impossible. God has made every created being appear “after his kind.”

ML-02/15/1981

Bushy Tail

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

Back and forth, back and forth ran Bushy Tail. Up and down the big oak tree he ran all day long. Then when the hickory nuts were ripe, what a mess he made! Who? Why, Bushy Tail, the squirrel. While up in the hickory tree he would chew off the outside shell, letting it fall to the ground, so he could get to the nut. The shells were scattered all over the sidewalk. What a mess!

As Mark watched from the window of Grandma’s house he asked, “Grandma, why does Bushy Tail collect all those acorns and nuts?”

Grandma was stirring a batch of bubbling, boiling, apple jelly. Mark watched her as she turned off the heat under the pan. One by one the hot jars were filled. Then she poured hot, melted wax on the top of each jar. All of the pans and jars sure made the kitchen a mess.

“You see, Mark,” said Grandma, “our friend, Bushy Tail, is doing just what I’m doing. Only he’s out gathering acorns and hickory nuts, and this morning I was out picking the apples. He’s storing his nuts in the old tree, and I’m storing the apples in these jars. Bushy Tail and your Grandma are both getting ready for the cold, winter months. And we are both making a mess!”

“But you feed Bushy Tail all winter long,” said Mark. “How come he needs all those acorns, too?”

“Well,” answered Grandma, “God has created something in that little squirrel that tells him to get ready for the winter, and nothing will stop him from doing it! The Bible tells us that little animals, like Bushy Tail, can teach us a lesson. It tells us to study their ways and habits and to become wise.” Grandma then read the verses to Mark about the ants, the conies, locusts and spider which God says “are exceeding wise” (Prov. 30:24-28).

“Remember, too,” she continued, “that other animals have their shelters to go to when danger is near. Have you ever watched our little friend Chippy, the chipmunk, that plays around in the front yard?”

“Sure. When he hears a noise, or when the dog comes out, he runs in that hole under the step.”

“That’s right,” said Grandma. “And what do you suppose can reach him in there?”

“Nothing, I guess,” replied Mark.

“That’s right. Not even the rain gets in there. That’s what the Lord means when He tells us to study these little animals to become wise. He tells people who are busy thinking, planning and doing things to beware of the judgment that is coming. And we must get ready now, or it will be too late.”

“How?” asked Mark.

“By trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ,” said Grandma. “He suffered on the cross for our sins. Now all those who trust in Him are covered by His blood. And God says, ‘When I see the blood, I will pass over you.’ Exodus 12:13. The punishment we deserve has already fallen on the Lord Jesus.”

“Then, once we are saved,” she continued, “nothing can separate us from His love and care. He is like the stone step that hides the chipmunk. The pouring rain hits the step, and the dog can sniff around it and bark all day, but the chipmunk is safe.”

Mark had nothing more to say, but he sure had lots to think about as he watched Bushy Tail wisely getting ready for winter. What about you? Are you prepared for the judgment that is coming on this world? If you have accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as your own Saviour, then you are as safe as you can possibly be. The Lord Jesus is coming very soon. He is going to take out of this world all who have trusted in Him. Are you ready? The time is very short. Accept Him right now as your Saviour.

“Prepare to meet thy God.” Amos 4:12.

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

ML-02/22/1981

Senor Domingo

We rested along the side of the trail at the top of the ridge. It had been a long, tiring walk up the mountain. In the valley below was the village where we were going. It had taken us nine hours of hard walking to get this far. Before starting down the mountain to the village, we asked the Lord to guide us where we should go. It was now late in the afternoon. My wife and I wanted to spend several days in this village, telling the people about the Lord Jesus, but we needed a place to stay. We had heard of a man in town who loved the Lord Jesus. His name was Senor Domingo.

As we entered the village, we asked where Senor Domingo lived. “Straight ahead on the right,” was the answer, “and here comes his wife.”

We approached the woman and told her who we were. Her name was Rosa. She was happy that we had come to the village. Like her husband, she also loved the Lord Jesus. She invited us to stay at their little house, after telling us that her husband was up in the mountains and would not return until evening.

As we walked to the little house “straight ahead on the right,” a few of the other women in town walked with us. They were very interested in my wife, since they had never seen an American woman before. As we sat on the rough boards and boxes, which was all the furniture they had, we told these women about the love of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Later that evening, Senor Domingo returned from his work. How happy he was to meet others who loved the Lord Jesus. We had a wonderful time that evening, reading the Bible and talking about God’s love.

Senor Domingo had been saved many years earlier in a little village in another area. Another man in town had found an old torn tract, and after reading it he became interested. He had never heard about the love of Christ before. A short time later he was able to get a Bible. Night after night he read it, and soon he was saved. Then he told Senor Domingo about the Lord Jesus and showed him the Bible. Domingo also became interested. He had already seen the change in the life of the other man. Domingo borrowed the Bible, and before long he also believed. Not long after, Domingo had moved to this village we were now in and began to tell others about the Lord Jesus. Soon, instead of just he and his wife, there were a dozen who met every evening to learn God’s way of salvation.

Later on in the evening about twenty people came to Domingo’s house. Benches were found for some of them. The rest just sat on the floor. For about two hours they asked questions and listened to the wonderful truths from the Bible.

About ten o’clock two other believers returned from their day’s work and, of course, the meeting had to begin again. It was one o’clock in the morning before they all left.

We wearily got ready to sleep on the same rough benches where we had spent the evening. Although very tired, we were happy to again see the power of the Spirit who had worked in many of the visitors that had come there that evening. God had revealed Himself through His Word to them. They already knew that salvation was all from Christ, and that only by accepting Him as their Saviour could they be saved. Senor Domingo had been a happy and faithful witness to the people in his village. His life had attracted others to the Lord Jesus, and many had been saved. Is your life a witness to your friends? Are others attracted to your Saviour by what you do and say?

“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that path no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1.

ML-02/22/1981

An Underground Resident

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the Lord.” Jeremiah 23:24.

The mole is a little animal that thinks it is hidden from every eye, but it doesn’t know about God, its Creator, whose eye is always on every living thing.

Seldom more than eight inches long, the mole is a little bundle of energy, always active and leading a very busy life. You might call it a living, digging machine, which the Creator has prepared for this kind of life. To help it bore through the ground, its head is attached to its body without any apparent neck, and it has a pointed snout which helps it dig through the soil. Then, too, its front feet, which do the digging, are twice the size of its back ones. They are equipped with spade-like claws with which it not only digs ahead, but throws dirt out behind as it moves along.

Its fur also has a special design. It looks and feels like velvet, and is made up of short hairs that lie smoothly in any direction in which they may be rubbed. This enables it to move forward or backward in the tunnels without getting its pretty coat full of dirt. Although it has eyes, they are not of much use underground, so God has given the mole a very sensitive sense of smell and extra-good hearing, to find its prey moving around through the soil.

This little fellow spends all its waking hours either enlarging its burrows or hunting worms and other food. It always stays underground except for very short trips outside to get green plants and grass. Its diet wouldn’t appeal to us, because it eats worms, insects, spiders and snails. If given the chance, it will also eat a mouse, frog or small snake, adding a salad of roots or green vegetation.

Tunnels are always wide enough for two to pass, and lead from one feeding ground to another, with a living area in between. In fact, as a safeguard, two circular rooms are made at different levels that connect to each other. When danger threatens, the little animals can escape through any of the many runs that begin in these rooms. Since it likes a lot of water to drink, it makes little wells in the passageways, so that it doesn’t have to go outside.

People with lawns and gardens often consider the mole a pest, but it does have a special place in God’s creation. It helps to control many harmful insects, and also improves the soil by loosening it as it digs.

How instructive it is to see the wisdom of God in providing each of His creatures with the special needs of its environment. Have you ever considered His goodness in proving for your needs, too? We are told: “God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19. Most blessed of all, He knows the need that each person has for deliverance from sins and judgment. He has also provided a Redeemer, His own beloved Son, for all who put their trust in Him. “Who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world.” Galatians 1:4. If you have not yet done so, accept this wonderful gift today and thank Him for it.

ML-02/22/1981

The Wrong Story

Memory Verse: “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.” 1 Timothy 1:15

Mr. Hunter lived in the same house with Julie and her family, but they weren’t related. He was a very good friend of Julie’s father, and he rented a room in their house. Mr. Hunter loved children, and soon he and six-year-old Julie were good friends. One evening as he was reading the newspaper in the living room, Julie ran in and said, “Please tell me a story, Mr. Hunter.”

“Sure,” said Mr. Hunter. “Sit down here beside me.”

Mr. Hunter was a very good story teller. He often told Julie about interesting things that he had seen while he was in the Navy. The story this evening was about a pet monkey that one of the sailors had on the boat. All the funny things that the monkey did made Julie laugh.

When he finished the story Julie asked, “Do you know any Bible stories?”

Mr. Hunter didn’t answer right away. When he did answer he said, “No, but I know another good story. Do you want to hear it?”

“Is it about Jesus?” asked Julie.

“No, I guess I don’t know any Bible stories or stories about Jesus,” he answered.

Julie went on, “Tell me your other story and then maybe some other time you will know a Bible story you can tell me. Mommy tells me Bible stories.”

Later that evening in his room, Mr. Hunter thought about what Julie had said. He knew Julie and her parents were Christians. Julie’s father had often spoken to him about “being saved.” It really hadn’t bothered him when Julie’s father talked to him. But now little Julie also knew that he was not saved.

Mr. Hunter looked at the text on the wall of his room: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15. “I remember my mother reading that to me,” he thought. “It didn’t mean much to me then, but now, maybe there is something to it.”

He picked up the Bible that Julie’s father had left in his room. He found the verse in 1 Timothy and read it again: “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.” He knew the words were meant for him. He was a sinner, and Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. It was just that easy! Right then he got down on his knees by his bed and thanked God for sending the Lord Jesus Christ to die for him. He took Him as his own Saviour. Then the Bible became a precious book to him.

After that, Mr. Hunter and Julie had many good times reading the lovely stories of the Lord Jesus in the Bible. Julie was just a little girl and Mr. Hunter was a grown man, but they were both sinners. Now they were both saved and loved the Lord Jesus Christ.

Will you take the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour?

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” Proverbs 18:10.

ML-03/01/1981

I Need a Break

One day while I was hitchhiking, a black Cadillac stopped for me. The driver was well-dressed and looked wealthy, but it was easy to see that he was not happy. After we rode in silence for awhile he turned to me and asked, “Would you mind driving? I need a break.” I was happy for the chance to help. As I drove, I wanted to talk to him about the Lord Jesus. But he was so quiet and seemed to have a lot on his mind. I didn’t know how to begin. Almost without thinking about it, I began to hum some hymns to myself.

After a short time he turned to me and said, “If you feel like singing, go ahead.”

I sang every hymn and gospel song I knew until we arrived where I was going. I stopped the car and was about ready to get out when he looked at me with tears in his eyes and said, “Thank you. That’s the first time I’ve been to church for twenty years. You’ll never know what this has meant to me.”

Then I was able to tell him about my Saviour and how He had saved me. He thanked me again as I got out, and then drove off. I hope he accepts Christ as his Saviour, too, so that he can be happy knowing his sins are washed away in the precious blood of Christ.

What about you? How many times have you heard the story about Jesus and His love for you? How many times have you sat in a Sunday school or a gospel meeting and said to yourself, “Not right now"? The time is short. Accept Him now. Don’t wait any longer. “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard Him?” Hebrews 2:3.

ML-03/01/1981

A Child of the King

A missionary in India hired a young Hindu boy from a mountain village to help him in his home. The boy’s name was Burean, meaning “Evil One.” His mother had given him this name, hoping to keep away the evil spirits.

Every morning Burean was present at the family’s Bible reading in the missionary’s home. He listened to the reading of the Bible and the prayers.

One morning after they had finished reading, Burean exclaimed, “What wonderful things you read out of that Book! I’ve never heard such things before!”

The missionary asked, “Do you believe them, Burean? If you believe them, they will be yours.”

Burean replied, “They are wonderful things, but they are not for me. They are for you. You are a child of the King. You have white skin. I am only a poor, dark-skinned Indian.”

The missionary said, “Burean, I am a child of the King because I believe on Jesus Christ. My white skin does not make me a child of God. You can also be a child of God if you will believe on Jesus. Where you live, what you own, and the color of your skin makes no difference!”

Jesus loves the little children

All the children of the world,

Red and yellow, black and white

All are precious in His sight,

Jesus loves the little children of the world.

“Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3.

ML-03/01/1981

Some Facts About the Bible

The first printed book in the world was the Bible in 1450.

The Bible contains 3,566,480 letters, 773,746 words, 31,173 verses, 1,189 chapters and 66 books. The longest verse is Esther 8:9. The shortest verse is John 11:35. The shortest book in the Old Testament is Obadiah. The shortest chapter is Esther 10. The shortest Psalm is Psalms 117; the longest Psalm is Psalms 119. There are 960 Old Testament passages quoted, or referred to, in the New Testament.

Best of all, in the Bible I see that I am a lost sinner; that Jesus Christ came to be my Saviour; and believing in Him, I am saved.

“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.” 2 Timothy 3:15.

ML-03/01/1981

The Lacewing Fly

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“The glory of the Lord shall endure Forever: the Lord shall rejoice in His works.” Psalms 104:31.

Only about one-half inch long, the Lacewing is a pretty little fly with transparent wings in pale shades of green. It is a real friend to farmers.

When laying eggs, the female first deposits a spot of “glue” on a branch or stem of a bush. Before this hardens she flips her tail upward, producing a long threadlike stalk which she sets into the “glue.” The stalk quickly becomes tough and hard. She repeats this time after time until the bush looks like it had natural growths on it. She places an egg on the end of each stalk, spacing them far enough apart so they will not eat one another when they hatch, since they are vicious little things at that time.

In about a week the baby appears as a larva, looking like a little lizard. Cutting its way out of the egg, it slides down the smooth stalk, using its tail as a brake. The mother fly has arranged her nest of eggs close to aphids’ (plant lice) feeding grounds. These become food for the larvae for about two weeks; then it is ready for a change. Attaching itself to the underside of a leaf, it spins a thread of white silk, wrapping itself in a cocoon, in which it will go through a 12-day change.

While in the cocoon, it develops specially designed cutting jaws. Using these, it slices around the top of its cocoon, leaving a small section as a hinge and anchor post. Pushing the lid open, it crawls out and spins another thread on which it dangles from the anchor. Soon its veins fill with blood, the wings dry and it has become a full-grown lacewing. Now it returns to what it enjoys best—eating aphids for the rest of its life. As it does this, it becomes a friend to farmers by helping protect his crop from these harmful pests.

Isn’t it interesting to see how the mother lacewing makes such careful preparations for its little ones: first by making the eggs look like part of a plant, and then placing them where they will immediately find food when they come out of their eggs. It is another example of how God has given instincts to His creatures so they may fill out their part in His total plan of creation.

God’s ways with us are far more important than with these insects. He has given us superior intelligence, so that we may see and know about Him and His wonders. He has also given us a conscience to remind us we are sinners and need a Saviour. In addition, He has given us hearts and minds capable of receiving this Saviour, and it is through Him and His death on the cross that we can go to heaven. He tells us: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23. Have you accepted this wonderful gift?

ML-03/01/1981

Escape!

Memory Verse: “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” John 14:6

This last day was the hardest.

Five years of planning had gone into this; three years of working silently in the night to make every detail perfect. Now the day was finally here. This time tomorrow we would be free—or dead! Tonight my family and four others would attempt to crash through the Iron Curtain from Czechoslovakia in a homemade tank.

Only one job remained—to get through this day, pretending that it was no different from any other. We could not say good-bye to anyone, for their own safety as well as ours. When meeting a neighbor in the street we could only pass him quickly and hope that the strain inside us did not show in our faces. We could not allow our eyes to betray the thought in our minds: “This is the last time I will ever see you.”

In my automobile-repair shop, I pretended to do my usual work. The day dragged so slowly, I thought it would never end. Darkness came at eight o’clock. Now there was nothing to do but wait through the hours until the last light went out in the village. There wat-, no need to pack. We could take with us only the clothes we wore.

After supper I found it impossible to sit still. I moved restlessly about the house, looking at the tables, the chairs, the stove, all the things that would be left behind. At nine o’clock I looked into the bedroom where my wife, Marta, had gone to sleep with my two children. They were too young for this kind of danger. Eva was four, Vaclav was six and Marta herself was only twenty-six. Even the children were not aware as yet as to what would happen this night.

I crossed the yard into my shop. I did not need a light. After these months and years of preparation I could have found every piece that was hidden there in my sleep.

Anyone coming into my shop during the day would have seen only heaps of rusty scrap metal and the stripped chassis of an old British tank. I had fitted this tank with a flatbed to haul wood from the forest.

Anyone surprising us in the night would have seen a very different vehicle. For three years we had been building, piece by piece, a top for the chassis. Dismantled, it looked like a pile of discarded scrap. Assembled, it was transformed into something that looked, at least in outline, like one of the tanks used by the border patrol.

We hid each piece as it was finished. One was under some old burlap, another behind a cabinet, a third in the rafters, a fourth under some scrap iron. By practicing every night we were able to put our tank together in thirty-five minutes.

In the dark I climbed up behind the wheel of the stripped chassis and started the motor. It turned over immediately, its sound smooth and encouraging. But would it hold up at sixty miles per hour on that long, forty-mile run to the border?

The desire to escape from communism was very strong in Vaclav Uhlik and his friends. Communism is a terrible wall that separated them from freedom. Sin is also a wall. It separates the sinner from God. “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Rom. 3:23. To have freedom from our sins we need God’s help. Vaclav Uhlik and those with him worked hard to build something that would take them to freedom. For the sinner, the work has already been done. The Lord Jesus Christ took the punishment for our sins on the cross. God loved the sinner so much that He punished His Son instead. “God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Rom. 5:8. If you will take Him as your Saviour, then you will be free from sin and its oppression. “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” John 8:36.

It was now past one o’clock in the morning. We began to dig out the hidden pieces of armor plate and bolt them into place.

At two o’clock I woke Marta. There was not much for her to do. There were no personal possessions to be packed. With eight people in the tank we could take only a feather mattress and a couple of blankets needed for padding the steel floor. All of us had never been in the tank together. Up to this time we dared not let the children see it. It was a tight squeeze now with each person jammed against the next. Sitting in the driver’s seat, I was the only one who could see out. When everyone was in place, I started the tank and turned it slowly into the sleeping street. I did not look back. The village was completely dark. We got through it without seeing anyone.

Once outside of town I increased the speed to forty. The bolted plates of the tank rattled and banged fearfully. We passed a car, then a milk truck. Then we passed two military policemen on foot. They waved a greeting to the tank, and I blinked the lights in reply. So far, so good! But it was still dark. I stepped up the speed to race the dawn.

Three miles before reaching the border we had to pass a large camp where five hundred border policemen lived and went on and off duty. I had never passed it at night. I did not know what time the shifts changed, nor what guards they had posted. I pushed the speed up to sixty miles per hour. We rattled and banged past the camp’s gate.

As we approached the fence that separated us from freedom, the road made a right-hand turn and ran parallel with the border. When we slowed to make the turn, my heart stood still. At the turn in the road stood a border guard!

I had to drive past him slowly, and he could not help getting a good look at us. The sky was growing light; dawn was creeping over the fields. In my mind’s eye I could see every mismatched bolt that would draw the guard’s attention.

I held my breath, expecting him to reach for his gun. He didn’t. It was still early, and he must have been half asleep. He waved me on.

The danger was still there. Three hundred yards from where he stood was the swampy place where I would have to make a full stop to raise the tires and lower the treads that would take us through the marsh.

I turned the steering wheel sharply toward the electric fence and came to a stop. With both hands I grabbed the lever that operated the treads and pulled with all my strength. Nothing moved. I pulled again frantically, and they still wouldn’t go down. I jerked and jerked again. Finally, with one last tremendous effort the treads went down.

I moved faster than I ever had before. I flung the tank into gear and floored the gas pedal. There was a bouncing jolt as we hit the wires and tore them loose. There were deafening roars as the land mines exploded and blinding flashes of light as the flares began to blaze all along the broken fence.

In the soft ground of the marsh, the tank wallowed and slowed to a crawl, but it did not stop. It slogged on through the swamp and finally plodded out on the other side on a road that led to a new life. We were out! We were free!

These brave people escaped from the slavery of communism. But there are many people still trapped in the slavery of sin who have heard there is a way of escape, but have not taken it. There is only one way, and it is very plain: it is through Christ and His death on the cross. Won’t you take Him as your Saviour today?

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” John 14:6.

ML-03/08/1981

What Color Is Jesus' Skin?

A little boy in Africa asked a missionary, “Was Jesus a black man?” The missionary answered, “No, my boy.”

Disappointment clouded his face. The missionary said to him, “Jesus lived in Palestine. That is a country in the Middle East. The people there have a complexion that is lighter than yours but darker than mine. It is somewhat in between.”

A smile lit up the boy’s face and he said happily, “Then Jesus belongs to both of us, doesn’t He?”

“That is right,” replied the missionary. “But even if Jesus had not lived in the Middle East He would still belong to both of us. Jesus belongs to all people of all colors. Everyone who receives Him as his or her Saviour belongs to Him, regardless of the color of his skin.”

“As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” John 1:12.

ML-03/08/1981

The Friendly Ladybird Beetle

“The Wonders of God’s Creation

“O Lord, Thou art my God; I will exalt Thee, I will praise Thy name; for Thou hast done wonderful things.” Isa. 25:1.

How often have you watched a pretty little Ladybird beetle (or Ladybug) with its orange-red dress, covered with black polka dots, crawl over your fingertip and said: “Ladybug, ladybug, fly away home; your house is on fire, your children will burn"? Of course, we really wouldn’t want its children to burn, because these charming little creatures are one of man’s best friends.

These colorful beetles save growers millions of dollars each year. One of their greatest benefits is in destroying tiny insects on citrus trees. Another benefit is in the control of the Colorado Potato Bug, which is a serious pest all over America. They also eat aphids as well as many other plant insects. So it is not hard to see why the Ladybug is welcomed by farmers.

The female, laying up to two hundred eggs, deposits them in cracks of bark or under leaves in areas where aphids live. When the little ones hatch, they immediately devour the aphids. They are sometimes called “Aphid Wolves” because of their appetite for these pests. After a few weeks, eating at a great rate, the larva reaches full size and prepares for a change in its life. Instinct, given to it by God, tells it to attach itself by its tail to the underside of a leaf. There it forms a shiny, porcelain-like chrysalis. Later it emerges as a fully-developed Ladybug, able to fly from one place to another, eating harmful insects in great quantities.

Our pretty friend has been provided with two unusual means of escape from its enemies. It can produce a foul-smelling fluid that makes it unattractive to its enemy. If this fails, it can “play possum” and the would-be captor, thinking it is dead, will often leave it alone.

In late autumn the Ladybugs hibernate, some going into buildings and some under the bark of dead trees, or other sheltered places. In the western states, millions of them fly long distances to the mountains and hide in the rocks. One group of them was estimated to contain 750 million. In the mountains the dormant Ladybugs are hunted by collectors and shoveled into sacks to be refrigerated until springtime. Then they are sold to orchardists and farmers, who are happy to buy them to place among their trees and plants.

God, who created these helpful little creatures, uses them so wonderfully to aid mankind. Should we not also wonder in what way we, too, can serve Him? The Psalmist said: “Serve the Lord with gladness: come before His presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord He is God: it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves.” Psa. 100:2,3. The Lord Himself invites us to serve Him. He has said: “If any man serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall also My servant be: if any man serve Me, him will My Father honor.” John 12:26. If we know Him as our own personal Lord and Saviour, it is indeed a happy privilege to serve Him.

ML-03/08/1981

"Don't Let Him Die!"

Memory Verse: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

Anne threw herself down on the old leather sofa sobbing, “I know he’s going to die; oh, I just know it! Why didn’t somebody watch him?” Anne cried. “Why didn’t they?”

The house had been very busy that morning. The new furniture had arrived before breakfast. Lots of things had to be moved out of the way so the deliverymen could get the new chairs and sofa into the living room. With all this going on they forgot to lock the screen door after the deliverymen left. Little Ronnie, just 14 months old, had pushed open the screen door. Nobody missed him for a few minutes, and that’s when it happened!

Anne didn’t like to think about what happened after that. She had been late for school, and Daddy said he would drop her off on his way to work. She and Daddy had hurried into the car and started to back out of the driveway. Then they felt the bump and heard the cry. At the same time Mother ran out of the house pointing frantically at the back wheel. Ronnie had been playing behind the car and was caught under the wheel of the car.

The ambulance and police had arrived minutes after they were called. They got Ronnie out and rushed him to the hospital. Daddy and Mommy had followed the ambulance, leaving Anne at home to take care of her little sister, Marie.

Anne could not stand the quiet house any longer. Getting up from the sofa, she went outside. If only she could get that picture out of her mind of Ronnie caught under the wheel. “Oh, God, please don’t let Ronnie die! I’ll be good if You’ll let him live,” she prayed. And she meant it. The thought of her family without Ronnie was awful! “Oh, God, please, please, don’t let him die!”

A little later she heard the car in the driveway and her Daddy’s voice. Racing to him, she looked up at his face. Before he said a word she could tell by his expression that God had heard her prayer. “The doctor says he thinks Ronnie is going to be all right,” he said to her.

Anne heard no more. Grabbing her little sister by the hand, she took her out into the back yard. No one could see or hear them. Anne was so relieved, she wanted to shout! Jumping up and down, the nine-year-old chanted, “God awered my prayer! God answered my prayer! Do you hear that, Marie? God answered my prayer!”

They went back into the house and listened as Daddy explained over the phone to Grandma what had happened. “The doctor said it is a miracle that Ronnie is alive,” he said.

“Of course it was a miracle!” Anne thought. She knew the answer —God had heard her prayer.

But now what about that promise she had made to God? She honestly wanted to be good, very good. At first it was easy. Every time she looked at her little brother she was so thankful he was getting better that it wasn’t hard to be good. But as time went on, she began to forget about her promise.

One warm Sunday afternoon, Anne went to the store for her mother. At the corner of one of the streets there was a man speaking from the Bible. She heard him say, “The Lord Jesus Christ is coming back to take to heaven all those who trust in Him and are saved. Are you ready?” Anne hurried on. She didn’t want to hear any more. She didn’t know if she was ready. How did you “trust the Lord"? And what did he mean by “saved"? She was scared—scared that the Lord Jesus might come back, and she didn’t know if she was ready. What could she do? Who was there to tell her?

Then something wonderful happened. Daddy came home one evening and told the family that he had found real peace and joy, and his sins had been forgiven by God. He was saved, he explained, because he had been lost: lost in sin and far away from God. The Lord Jesus had found him. He showed them in the Bible that He “is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10.

Anne listened carefully. Here was her answer. Daddy talked to her more about the Lord. He explained to her that she was a sinner, too, and showed her from the Bible the way to be saved. Later, alone in her room, she quietly asked the Lord Jesus to save her. She told him that she was a sinner and needed to be saved. She accepted Him as her own Saviour. It was a happy Anne who got up from her knees. The Lord had heard her prayer again. Now He would help her keep that promise she had made the day Ronnie was hurt.

Anne had not been able to keep the promise she had made to God because she was under the power of sin. But after she accepted the Lord Jesus as her Saviour, she was no longer under the power of sin and, with His help, she could try to please Him in everything she did. In her words, “Jesus will help me to be good.”

Have you accepted Him as your Saviour? Remember His words: “I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish.” John 10:28.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9.

ML-03/15/1981

Sweet Potatoes

Almost everyone likes sweet potatoes. However, they have to be grown in a warm climate. In some parts of Africa they thrive and are greatly appreciated, because white potatoes are scarce.

A missionary in Africa had an African boy plant and take care of a patch of sweet potatoes. It was a pretty sight to look at the many little hills all covered with long green potato vines.

The missionary was longing for a meal of these potatoes baked with some wild honey, so she walked over to see if the ground on the little hills was cracked open. That is the way to find out if they are ready to eat.

Selecting one of the largest hills, she pushed aside the vines. Instead of cracked ground she was terrified to find a puff adder curled around the potato plant! Puff adders are very dangerous, poisonous snakes. Everybody in Africa is afraid of them.

This puff adder reminds us of Satan. In the Bible we read, “that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan.” Revelation 20:2.

We know that the Lord Jesus Christ was tempted in the wilderness by the Devil. Then the Devil again tempted Him three times. Each of the three times He answered by saying, “It is written,” and then quoted a verse of Scripture. After the third time of quoting Scripture, the Devil left Him.

May we follow the Lord’s example when we are tempted to do wrong, by quoting a verse of Scripture.

What a loving Saviour we have! It was He who protected the missionary from being bitten by the puff adder.

She screamed at the top of her voice, “Muroro!” (serpent) when she saw the puff adder. The garden boy heard the cry and came running with a big long stick and killed the snake. It never frightened or harmed anybody again.

The Lord Jesus is ready at all times to protect from harm and danger all those who put their trust in Him. “Trust ye in the Lord forever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength.” Isaiah 26:4.

ML-03/15/1981

Putting the Sun to Work the Crocodile

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down, and hasteth to his place where he arose.” Ecclesiastes 1:5.

Many crocodiles make their homes in the Nile River. Their young come from eggs, and their hatching is quite interesting. Before laying her eggs, the female leaves the river and finds ground that is exposed to the hot sun. After digging a hole about a foot deep, she lays the eggs in it. She then covers them with dirt and presses it down firmly. Until they hatch, the mother crocodile stays nearby guarding her eggs. She will attack anything that tries to dig them up.

Nearly three months after the eggs have been laid, her patience is rewarded. She seems to know that the little ones are starting to break out of their shells. But, unless they get help they will not be able to get out of the nest. The sun-baked soil has become hard as a rock. That is when “mother” comes to the rescue. With her strong claws she rips the nest open and frees the baby crocodiles. She picks them up very gently in her jaws, holding twenty or more at once, and carries them to the river or a pool where she releases them. After a few lessons in the water, they soon learn to care for themselves.

This large bird makes its home in Australia. Its method of hatching its young is quite similar to that of the Nile Crocodile. The female, rather than making a nest as most birds do, digs a pit in the ground. She partially fills it with leaves, lays the eggs on them and finally covers it all with dirt. From then on she turns all the care of the nest over to her mate.

The decaying leaves and the hot sun heating the soil provide just the right temperature for incubation. While waiting for the little ones to hatch, the male bird takes very good care of the eggs. From time to time he scrapes away the soil to check on them. If it doesn’t seem to be going just right, he will sometimes clean everything out and make the nest all over again. Since his mate lays eggs several times a year in separate nests, the poor male spends a great deal of his lifetime performing these duties.

How did the crocodile learn that the heat of the sun will cause its eggs to hatch underground? How does it have patience to wait so long for this to happen? Who taught her how to carry the babies in her jaws?

How did the Mallee Fowl discover such a strange way to hatch her eggs, and who told the male how to take care of the nests? Such instructions could only have come from the One who created them. And He didn’t leave them to discover these things over centuries of time, but taught them the very day He created them.

Do you know that the Scriptures have something to tell us, too, in regard to instructions? The Lord says: “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with Mine eye.” Psalms 32:8. The way of happiness is to follow His instruction and guidance.

ML-03/15/1981

Adventure in a Rowboat

Memory Verse: “Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.” Psalm 50:15

As amazing as it may seem, two men once rowed across the Atlantic Ocean in an open boat from New York to France, a distance of 3,250 miles.

Frank Samuelson and George Harbo, both Norwegian immigrants, lived in Brooklyn, New York, and worked as fishermen. They were strong young men in their late twenties who had spent all their lives at sea. They planned the trip as an adventure, but also in hopes of making some money. “If anybody would row the ocean,” Samuelson told Harbo, “he would make a fortune. People would pay to see the boat.” One man couldn’t do it alone, they agreed. But two men might make the voyage in two months if they rowed 54 miles a day. So why not try it?

For two years the men made plans as they built their eighteen-foot boat. If it should tip over, it had watertight compartments to keep it floating. It also had built-in tanks for drinking water. Into the boat, which they named Fox, went five pairs of oars, a sea anchor, signal lights, five gallons of kerosene for their cooking stove, and an air mattress. Their food included 250 eggs, 100 pounds of biscuits, 9 pounds of coffee and 25 pounds of canned meat.

Amid much celebration the two men in the Fox left New York’s harbor on June 6, 1896. Harbor whistles saluted the boat as it skimmed down the bay with both men rowing. However, most of the 2,000 people who watched them leave thought the two men would never make it. “It’s suicide!” was a common expression.

When the Fox reached the open sea, the two men began their carefully planned routine. Each man was to row 15 hours a day, sometimes together, other times alone.

For eight days they made steady progress in perfectly clear weather. Then a strong gale blew up from the east. The waves rose higher and higher, until they washed over the Fox. At 9 a.m. the two men gave up rowing and tossed out the sea anchor. At 5 p.m. Harbo figured their progress for the day had been 25 miles backwards!

On they rowed, occasionally meeting other ships who tried to help them, thinking they were shipwrecked. There were several surprised ship captains and crews when they heard that the two men were on their way to Europe.

On the Norwegians rowed, sometimes singing, but usually pulling on their oars in silence. On July 7 a westerly gale blew up, and for two days the weary men battled huge waves. It was a hard fight. At least ten times a day the tiny craft had to be bailed out. Only the watertight compartments kept her afloat.

On the second night of the storm, Samuelson saw a gigantic wave bearing down on them.

“Look out!” he shouted.

“We’ll never make it!” gasped Harbo, struggling with the oars.

The next instant the Fox was overturned, and the two men were struggling in the icy water. But for even this emergency they had made plans. Each wore a lifebelt which was fastened to the boat by a rope. Along the side of the boat they had installed a rail to which they could cling.

After several attempts, they righted the boat, crawled aboard and began to bail desperately. Most of their food had been swept away, and their clothes were waterlogged. Sleepless and hungry, they were a sorry sight as the sun rose over a calming sea.

What a picture of the sinner without Christ! Everyone of us is on a trip through this world. Everyone of us is a sinner and away from God. Some of us have been saved by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ and what He has done for us. His blood has washed our sins away and now we have peace with God. Without Christ we were just like those “having no hope, and without God in the world.” Ephesians 2:12.

Samuelson and Harbo were in bad shape. Food lost, tired and sore in a rowboat in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean—they needed to be rescued! A sinner without Christ is in a bad condition, too. He needs to accept the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour. This is the only hope for sinners. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” John 14:6.

Salvation appeared for the two men in the form of a ship on the horizon. They tied a blanket to an oar and began to wave it. At last the ship turned toward the famished men. The ship turned out to be from Norway, from the very city where the two men were born. They boarded the ship for a good meal and a happy reunion with seamen like themselves. Before the two men left, the Norwegians filled the Fox’s water tanks and stocked her with fresh provisions.

When we accept the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour, we are brought into a new family, the family of God. He feeds us, welcomes us and gives us provisions for the rest of the journey through this world. He supplies us with His Word as “a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalms 119:105. He also gives the Holy Spirit which “will guide you into all truth.” John 16:13. This is what God, our Provider, supplies.

Samuelson and Harbo left their friends and, taking up their oars again, continued on their journey. The weather stayed fair, and for more than a week they averaged 65 miles a day. They made a brief stop in England before continuing on to a hero’s welcome in LeHaure, France, on August 7. They, and the Fox, were worn and battered. They could not stand on their stiff legs after landing. Their hands were in frightful shape from the wind, sun and salt water. They were in bad shape, but they had made it!

We are not promised a smooth voyage after we’re saved. This is what we are promised: “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Hebrews 13:5. Can we ask for anything more?

ML-03/22/1981

Balto

In the town of Nome, Alaska, many years ago there was a serious outbreak of diphtheria. The only cure for this disease was a special serum, but there was none available in Nome. The closest supply was in the town of Nenama, which was 650 miles away. The only way the serum could be taken to Nome was by dog team.

A relay of dog teams and drivers was quickly organized, and the valuable serum started on its long trip. Each team and driver would travel about 50 miles; then a fresh team and driver would take over.

The relay worked smoothly for most of the trip, with a fresh team and driver ready as the exhausted team arrived. Balto, a Siberian husky, was the lead dog of the team that was taking the serum to the town of Bluff. From Bluff to Nome was the last part of the trip. A fresh team and driver were to be ready at Bluff.

Frank Kasson, the driver, urged Balto and the team onward. The weather was turning bad. It looked like a blizzard was coming.

Five miles before reaching Bluff, the blizzard suddenly blew in with strong winds. The team struggled through to the meting point, only to find that the new team had not arrived. They were coming in from another town and had gotten lost in the blizzard.

Frank didn’t know the trail from Bluff to Nome, but Balto had been over it before. Frank decided to push on, even though the team was very tired. He gave Balto the lead and trusted him to find the way to Nome. Balto never faltered. He stayed on the trail through blinding snow from Bluff to Nome-53 miles in 30 degrees-below-zero weather! The diphtheria outbreak was brought under control.

Today, a monument of Balto stands in Central Park, New York.

Balto was a saviour for the children of Nome who were dying from the serious disease, diphtheria. His courage and strength took the cure to the doctors in time. Sin is a serious disease, too. Each one of us is “dead in trespasses and sins.” Ephesians 2:1. There is only one cure for sin. The Lord Jesus Christ made it available to us, but it cost Him His life. He died on the cross and shed His precious blood for the sins of all those who will put their trust in Him. Just as the serum was the “cure” for the children, so Christ is the only “cure” for the sinner. “In Him was life; and the life was the light of men.” John 1:4.

ML-03/22/1981

The Plant with Honey Jars

The Wonders of God’s Creation

The beautiful Poinsettia grows tall and bushy in some southern climates. In warm weather it is covered with green leaves, but these turn yellow and fall off when the weather becomes cold. Meanwhile, beautiful crimson-colored “bracts” have been growing on the stems, which are not affected by the cold (unless there is a real freeze). These make the plant lovely and attractive. They look like flowers, but are actually part of the leaf system. In northern climates, small Poinsettia plants are often grown in greenhouses, and are familiar to most of us as they are potted and marketed during the winter holidays.

Each stem of this plant contains a green ball, forming part of the “bract.” This holds the actual flowers, which themselves are not very pretty. Inside some of these flowers is the seed-bearing pistil. In others, pollen-bearing staminates appear. They just stand erect and are bare, without petals, such as ordinary flowers display. But they are equipped with something ordinary flowers do not have. On the side of each green ball a yellow, funnel-shaped “honey jar” grows, gradually filling with a sweet nectar.

When the female flower, containing the pistil, but no stamen, becomes mature, it grows six little arms at one end. When these appear it is as if it were saying: “I am ready for the pollen necessary to produce seeds.” The problem is that it cannot produce the pollen itself. This must come from one of the pollen-producing flowers.

Now we see the purpose of the “bracts,” with their bright red leaves and honey jars attached. Bees, butterflies and other insects are attracted to these bright colors and sweet smells. They go into the various flowers to get the delicious honey. When they enter the ones with stamens, they become covered with pollen. As they move from flower to flower, they brush against the pistil of the female flower. This is called pollination. From this pistil another crop of seeds, new plants and flowers will be produced.

Besides getting honey, some of the insects enter the flower for another reason. They lay eggs inside the Poinsettia, and the plant is used as a source of food when the little ones hatch.

We see again that God has neglected none of His creation. Whether animal, fish, plant or any other object, He is always watching over them. Here is one of the many instances where He has arranged for two entirely different species to help one another. The insects get their food from the honey jars, and the plants are pollinated so that their species can continue.

“The works of the Lord are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein. His work is honorable and glorious: and His righteousness endureth Forever. He hath made His wonderful works to be remembered: the Lord is gracious and full of compassion.” Psalms 111:2-4.

The Lions

Memory Verse: “Your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” 1 Peter 5:8

John A. Hunter was one of the best-known hunters in British East Africa. He was called to that country by the Kenya Game Department. As a professional hunter, he was asked to rid the territory of a recently-increased lion population that was raiding the natives’ cattle and threatening their whole way of life. Many natives had been killed as they tried to protect their cattle, using spears, which were the only weapons they had.

At one of the camps where John was staying, a very strange thing happened. He had always thought that wild animals are afraid of fire. He and other hunters were sure lions would never approach a campfire.

One evening while camped at the Masai Reserve, John was sitting beside a big campfire. The natives that were helping him hunt the lions were curled up asleep in their blankets beside the fire. John was staring into the fire, his thoughts many miles away.

Suddenly, he realized he was looking into the faces of nine lions that had come out of the shadows and were standing facing him. They had been attracted by the body of a zebra, which had been killed and dragged near the campfire. The zebra was to be used the next day as bait for the lions. But now, as John sat staring at the lions, he didn’t know if he or the zebra was the bait!

He did not dare move. His rifle was in his tent. He could only sit motionless and watch them. The lions studied him carefully. Then they slowly walked around the sleeping natives to the other side of the campfire and attacked the dead zebra.

There are many people today who are fast asleep and don’t realize they are in danger. They are sinners, and Satan has “blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” 2 Corinthians 4:4. They are asleep in their sins and cannot do anything to help themselves. They need someone to help them. The Lord Jesus Christ is the only Person who can help sinners. He died on the cross for our sins and can wash them all away, if we will just ask Him. What about your sins? Have they been washed away in His precious blood? “Awake thou that sleepest... and Christ shall give thee light.” Ephesians 5:14.

The lions tore into the zebra carcass with growls and snarls, ripping off great strips of hide as though the thick skins were paper. As the lions were busy with the zebra, John slowly lifted off his camp seat and cautiously inched toward his tent, his flesh tingling with every move. The lions stopped eating to glare at him. He felt very small and helpless beside those great beasts. With just a couple of bounds they could have been on top of him. Meanwhile, the natives lay soundly sleeping only a few feet from them. John wanted to make a dash for the rifle, which was in his tent, but he was afraid that any sudden movement might bring on a charge. He waited until the lions had returned to their feeding and then moving slowly, foot by foot, he reached the tent and ducked inside.

John now had his rifle, but this didn’t solve his problem. If he fired, the natives would leap to their feet, placing themselves between him and the lions. He became aware of something else: the chain around the zebra’s neck, which had been used to drag it to camp, was making a clanking noise. As the lions fought over the carcass, they banged the chain up and down. John was afraid that this noise would waken the natives, and when they saw the lions they would panic. To have terror-stricken natives bolting about among nine lions was not a pleasant thought. He quickly decided it would be better to shoot. Taking careful aim at the largest lion he fired, hitting it squarely. At the sound of the shot the other lions drew back a few feet and then sprang again on the carcass. The natives continued to sleep.

John fired shot after shot at the lions. He killed three more before the rest of them ran off into the darkness. Although it seems impossible, the natives were still fast asleep! Neither the noise made by the lions nor the gun shots had disturbed them. Several times John had noted this trance-like sleep of the natives, but never before had he seen such a remarkable example of it.

John built up the fire, and then he went around kicking the soles of the natives’ feet. One of them awoke, stretched, and sat up. He yawned and then saw the four dead lions lying within a few feet of him. The poor man gave a wild yell and leaped straight up into the air! Shrieking, he ran into the tent with the rest of the natives right behind him! They sat in the tent shivering in fright while John explained what had happened. In a few minutes they were all asleep again, lying on the floor of the tent.

The natives had been saved from attack by the actions of John Hunter. They were helpless to defend themselves in the face of such strength. Before we are saved we, too, are helpless in the face of Satan’s power. It is only through the work of the Lord Jesus on the cross that Satan has been defeated. If you will take the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour, then you will have His strength and power to resist Satan. He has promised that “him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37. Then you will have “the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” Ephesians 6:11. Won’t you accept Him right now as your Saviour? He is coming back very soon to take to heaven everyone who has put their trust in Him. If you are still “asleep in your sins” when He comes, it will be too late!

“Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the Master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: lest coming suddenly He find you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.” Mark 13:35-37.

ML-03/29/1981

Which Is the Best Cleanser?

There are many different kinds of soaps and cleansers in the stores today. There are kitchen soaps, detergents for clothes, cleansers for sinks, cleansers for floors, bath soaps, spray-on cleansers and on and on. How can we know which one is best? We could try each one, but that would take a long, long time. We can read what the different soap makers say, but that won’t help much because each one says theirs is the best. There is even one that says it is "99-44/100% pure.” That’s almost perfect.

Besides dirty hands, dirty clothes, dirty windows and dirty floors, there is something else that needs to be cleansed, it is our hearts. Do you believe that your heart is full of sin? Do you also know that unless your heart is washed from sin you cannot go to be with the Lord Jesus Christ in heaven? The Bible says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it.” Jeremiah 17:9.

Although there are many cleaners we can use to wash our hands, clean our cars or wash our clothes, there is only one cleanser for the heart. It can wash away all our sins, and it is 100% perfect! It is the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ that He shed on Calvary’s cross for you and for me. Is your heart still dirty with sin, or have your sins been washed away by the blood of Jesus?

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

ML-03/29/1981

Water and Ice

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“Trust in the living God, who is the Saviour (Preserver) of all men, specially of those that believe.” 1 Timothy 4:10.

Everyone knows that in a container, hot liquids rise to the top and cold ones go to the bottom. Right? No, although this is true of other liquids, water is an exception. Water does become heavy and drops toward the bottom when first exposed to cold air. The warm water beneath rises past it to the surface. This continues until the water temperature cools to 39° F. (7° above freezing!) When this temperature is reached, a strange thing happens. Instead of sinking, the water at this temperature remains on the top, and when the temperature drops to 32° it freezes there. The warmer water is still underneath, but can no longer work its way to the top.

Everyone also knows that the hotter things become, the more they expand, and the colder they are, the more they contract. Right? No, water is again the exception. As ice is formed it expands, which helps to make it lighter than the water below. The water temperature under the ice is always 34.2° (more than two degrees above freezing). Continued cold weather may make more ice form, but it is always from the top downward.

Surely the Creator had a wise purpose in making this exception. If we stop to think about it we will discover at least one good reason. If the cold water in a pond, lake, river or ocean continued to drop to the bottom, what would happen? When temperature reached the freezing point, the ice would form at the bottom, building up, layer upon layer, until the whole area would become a solid block of ice. No water would remain, and all the fish and other marine life would die. When the air temperature warmed up, only the ice on top would melt. The ice below would never thaw, except in very shallow places. Most ice would never thaw under these conditions.

Not only would all marine life die, but everything living on the land would also die. Water in liquid form is essential to the preservation of all life. Streams and rivers would stop flowing, ocean currents would be changed, and so many things affected that life could not go on. But as it is now in God’s wonderful creation, fish and other water creatures go on quite happily in their liquid environment. There may be a temporary ice covering over them, but life for them and on earth goes on in its usual way.

Here is another evidence of the Lord preserving and caring for all His creation. Is it not an assuring thing to trust in Him, of whom it is said: “Thy judgments are a great deep: O Lord, Thou preservest man and beast.” Psa. 36:6.

But, while it is happy to know Him as Creator, how much more important it is to know Him as Saviour. As our Saviour He gives us eternal life when we trust in His finished work on Calvary’s cross. “That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:15. Do you know Him as your Saviour?

ML-03/29/1981

"Riding the Bucket"

Memory Verse: He that believeth on Him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” John 3:18

When I was a boy, we lived near the overhead conveyer belt that carried the huge buckets of rubbish to a dump. All day long we could hear the buckets rumbling along. They made a queer, clanking noise something like “jurr ... jurr ... jurr ... clunk... jurr... jurr... jurr ... clunk.” They stopped their noisy travel for only an hour or so at the end of each work shift. Whenever we were tired of playing tag, we would lie on the grass and watch the slowly moving buckets.

Some of the boys used to climb the steel towers that held the conveyer. Once when I was little I saw a boy named Mike climb up the tower, then catch hold of one of the buckets. All of us held our breath as the bucket carried him along. We could see him hanging on the outside shouting, “Hey, look at me!”

When the bucket came to the place where it emptied, Mike jumped clear. The workmen yelled and ran after him, but Mike could run fast and easily got away. He was laughing as he ran towards us, glancing back at the angry workmen.

“What was it like?” we all asked.

“You just looked like little dolls down on the ground,” he said, “and I could see the sun shining on the ocean about 20 miles away!”

I had never seen the ocean, and right then I knew that someday I was going to climb up that tower and ride one of those buckets!

When I was about ten, a group of us were playing on the road. “Hey, Johnny, when are you going to climb up and ride in the bucket?” asked Mary, the girl who lived next door to me. She knew I wanted to ride that bucket, but she also knew it might be scary. She laughed as if she expected me to make an excuse not to try it. All the others looked at me. I knew it was either now or never!

I was a little scared as I climbed the tower. The steel was warm from the sun, and the whole tower shook a little as the buckets moved along. When I got to the top, a big bucket came along. I grabbed its rusty rim tightly and dangled my legs. My bare knees grated on its rusty sides.

From below came a cheer as the moving bucket carried me slowly away from the tower. There was no turning back now. I had started on my three-minute adventure. I was high above the ground and feeling rather brave. The bucket moved along, “jurr... jurr... jurr... clunk... jurr... jurr... jurr....”

Then suddenly it stopped! From the dump area I heard the shrill whistle that signaled the end of that workshift. I suddenly got very frightened as I realized I might have to hang on for a long time.

My arms started to ache, a numbing, throbbing pain. From below I could hear Mary calling, “Hang on! Hang on, Johnny! Bill is running to the dump to tell them to start up the conveyer again!”

I knew I was in real trouble. The dump was a half-mile away. Everything was quiet. My arms hurt terribly. I shut my eyes. “Hang on, Johnny!” called Mary’s frightened voice.

I opened my eyes, and the last thing I remembered seeing was the gleam of sunlight on the distant bay. Finally, I fell.

I wakened in a hospital bed and found I could not move either of my arms or legs because of the plaster casts. I was in the hospital a long time. My friends came to visit me many times. Mary especially was very upset, because she was the one who had suggested I take my ride. My bones eventually healed. It was an experience I’ll never forget.

John can look back now and tell a very interesting story about his “ride on the bucket.” He knows now that it was a foolish thing to do. He could easily have been killed. The workmen at the dump had warned the children about the danger, but John paid no attention. He decided to try it anyway, and he was almost killed.

The sinner that is not saved is also in real danger. If he (or she) should die without having his sins washed away, the Bible tells us he will go to Hell (Rev. 20:15). However, God has provided a way for sinners to be saved: “God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8. John went on his “bucket ride” knowing it was dangerous. Satan tells the sinner that there is plenty of time and that there is no danger. But the Bible says, “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” Hebrews 10:31. Each one of us has to answer the question, “What think ye of Christ?” Matthew 22:42. You can accept Him now as your Saviour and know that your sins are washed away in His precious blood; or you can refuse Him, or put it off until later. This is very dangerous. If a sinner without Christ should die in his sins, he will be lost and away from God forever. Putting it off “until later” is not the answer. We are not promised that we will be alive tomorrow. “Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” Proverbs 27:1. We are told to accept the Lord Jesus Christ now while we can. John listened to his friends and went on an adventure that almost killed him. Don’t listen to those who say you can be saved later or when you are older. Accept Him right now! “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

ML-04/05/1981

"He Knows the Shepherd"

Some years ago at a dinner a great actor, who was an honored guest, was asked to recite something to entertain the others present. He agreed and asked if there was anything special that his audience would like to hear.

After a moment’s pause an old gentleman present said, “Could you, sir, recite the twenty-third Psalm?”

The actor paused, and a strange look came over his face. Then he said, “I can and will upon one condition; after I have recited it you will also recite it.”

“I?” said the old gentleman in surprise. “But I am not an actor like you. However, I will do so if you wish.”

The actor began the Psalm. His voice and delivery were perfect. He held his audience spellbound. As he finished there was a great burst of applause.

As the applause died away, the old gentleman arose and began the Psalm. His voice was shaky, his delivery was poor. When he finished there was no applause, but there was not a dry eye in the room.

Then the actor rose to his feet again. His voice trembled as he laid his hand upon the shoulder of the old man and said: “I reached your eyes and ears, my friends. He reached your hearts. The difference is just this—I know the twenty-third Psalm, but he knows the Shepherd.”

Do you, too, know that Shepherd? Jesus said: “I am the good Shepherd: the good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.” John 10:9.

ML-04/05/1981

The Lowly Acorn

“And God said, Let the earth bring forth... the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself.” Genesis 1:11.

An oak tree is a lovely thing. In the summer its shade is welcome, and in the fall its colored leaves are spectacular. But it gets its start in a small way.

A tiny flower on a large oak tree is pollinated and begins to grow. Within a few month’s time it becomes an acorn, complete with its little sport cap. A full-grown tree produces thousands of acorns. Every healthy acorn (many are wormy) has the ability to produce all the parts of a new tree. But only a few of them ever grow into trees, because there are many hungry mouths ready to use them as food. This is just the way God purposed it, as He said to Adam: “Every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat (food).” Genesis 1:29.

Almost all acorns are good to eat, but the Indians of North America especially liked the sweet-tasting White Oak variety. It is not just humans who eat acorns. Squirrels and chipmunks find them a chief source of food. Perhaps you have seen them scampering over a tree, cutting acorns free with their teeth. These fall to the ground and are later picked up and carried to their nests. These lively animals do something else, too. Often they hide acorns in the ground, carefully covering them with soil. They, no doubt, are planning to collect them later. But usually they forget some of them, and so new little oak trees spring up from these forgotten acorns.

Some of God’s other creatures also use acorns. Insects drill through the shell and plant eggs inside. When the eggs hatch, the kernel of the acorn supplies the food that they need. Then there are woodpeckers, nuthatches, blue jays, wild turkeys and other birds that go after them. Pigs eat them, too, and even deer include them in their diet.

Surely God arranged such an abundant supply of acorns as tasty food for many of His creatures to enjoy. The acorns that escape all these hunters and fall on fertile ground germinate in the fall. As the shell cracks open, little roots push out into the soil before freezing weather sets in. But God designed this seed so that no stems or leaves appear until springtime. If they did, they would be killed by the cold of winter. In warm weather the top growth appears and a new tree is established.

In all of this we see again the wonders of God’s creation, supplying food for many and at the same time reminding us that all things reproduce “after their kind.”

We should be thankful to God for every kind of food graciously given us. It is important to also remember the words of the Lord: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4. Later, He explained to some who asked of Him: ". My Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world....I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst.” John 6:32-35. Have you done so?

ML-04/05/1981

A Lost Lamb

Memory Verse: “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

Several years ago we spent our vacation camping in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. We thought that we were far away from the cities and busy highways, so we were quite surprised one morning to hear large trucks coming up the gravel road by the campground. We ran out to the road and found four large semitrailer trucks loaded with sheep. They had brought 1700 sheep to graze in the mountain meadows for the summer.

It was very interesting watching these sheep being unloaded. What a noise they made as they ran down the ramp and off into the forest. It all reminded me of the verse in Isa. 53:6, “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way.” I thought the men would never be able to find all the sheep again. We, too, are just like these sheep. Each one of us wants to go our own way, doing what we want to do, instead of following the Shepherd.

However, we soon saw that there was one man with a horse who rode into the forest and rounded up the sheep. He was the shepherd of these sheep and took them up into the mountains.

Later in the afternoon we were again surprised when nearby we heard a “baa baa!” We found one little lost lamb running here and there, not knowing where to go. It had gotten lost in the forest and had been left behind. We felt very sorry for this little lamb. We knew that it might never find the rest of the sheep and could easily be killed by a wild animal such as a bear or coyote. Again we were reminded of how the Lord Jesus told of the shepherd in Luke 15:4,5. “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? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders rejoicing.” So if you are lost in your sins, as this lamb was lost in the forest, the Saviour of sinners is seeking you. Don’t run away any longer, but come to the Lord Jesus today. He has said, “Come unto Me... I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28.

We decided to catch this little lamb and take it back to the rest of the flock. But I’m sorry to say that it disappeared into the forest before we could catch it. We never saw or heard it again.

We hope that none of you who read this story will be like that poor little lamb. We pray that you will come to the Good Shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave His life for the sheep. “I am the good Shepherd... I lay down My life for the sheep.” John 10:14,15.

ML-04/12/1981

The Birthday Party

Today was an exciting day for Carol. It was her 12Th birthday, and her mother had promised her a birthday party with some of her friends. Finally, school was out, and she hurried home to greet her friends as they arrived. Soon everyone was there, and the party began. They played games in the basement, and everyone had a good time. It was almost time for cake and ice cream when her father came home, bringing a package beautifully wrapped with ribbon and bow. All of the children were anxious to see what was inside. But since it was time to eat, they all sat down quietly at the table while Carol’s father asked God’s blessing on the food.

When they had finished eating, everyone crowded around the package and tried to guess what Carol’s present was. Carol tried to guess, too, but her father kept saying every guess was wrong. All the children watched her unwrap it. None of them had ever seen anything quite like this present. It was a black box with levers and buttons. Her father explained that it was a tape recorder. When the levers were pressed, voices and all kinds of noises could be recorded on a plastic tape inside the machine. He also told them they would be able to hear what they had recorded if they played the tape back again.

Everyone listened carefully as the tape of their recorded voices was played. There was much laughter and excitement as each voice was heard and recognized. Each one got a turn to record their voice on the recorder. Tina was Carol’s best friend, and her message was last. Suddenly the room became very quiet as Tina’s voice was heard saying, “I’m glad that I’m Carol’s best friend, because she told me about God and how He loved me so much that He sent His Son, the Lord Jesus, down to earth to die for my sins. It says in the Bible that ‘the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin,’ and I believe what it says. Now I want to tell everyone how happy I am since I have taken Jesus as my Saviour.”

For several seconds there was complete silence in the room. Many of the girls realized that they also needed to have their sins forgiven. Then someone said, “Let’s finish that ping-pong game,” and they soon forgot what Tina had said.

Perhaps all the others quickly forgot, but Carol could not forget Tina’s words. She had told Tina about the Saviour, but she had never really believed it for herself. She had grown up in a Christian home and had told everyone that she was saved. It was all pretend, though, because she didn’t really believe it in her heart. She thought she would wait until later to be saved, maybe when she was a little older. As she went to bed that night she kept remembering what Tina had said about the Lord Jesus. It bothered her so much that she couldn’t sleep, so she got up and went into her parents’ room. She told them that she had been pretending all this time and was not really saved, and she wanted to be saved now and be happy like Tina. The three of them knelt down beside the bed and prayed. Carol asked the Lord Jesus to come into her heart. The happiness that filled her heart was impossible to describe. She saw that God had given His Son to die for her sins. She knew there was nothing she could do to take away her own sins so she could go to heaven. Now she understood that Jesus had died as her substitute, and all she had to do was to accept this wonderful gift.

How about you? Are you saved? Have you ever asked God to forgive you? Do you realize that your sins will shut you out of heaven forever? It is only the Lord Jesus Christ that can forgive your sins. It’s so easy to pretend, but it’s what is real that counts with God. Don’t wait any longer! Accept Him into your heart now. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Cor. 6:2.

ML-04/12/1981

Your Skin Holds You Together

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“I will praise Thee; for I am... wonderfully made; marvelous are Thy works....” Psa. 139:14.

Most of us never think about our skin unless it is injured or needs washing, but it is a most necessary part of the body. The underside is called the dermis, which is filled with nerve ends, blood vessels and glands. Over this is the epidermis, the visible part.

Spread out flat, an adult’s skin would cover about eighteen square feet, with each square inch containing approximately three feet of tiny blood vessels, twelve feet of nerves, one hundred sweat glands and more than three million cells! Strangely enough, the skin surface is actually dead. However, the cells at its base are alive, and new ones are continually being produced. These new cells push the old, dying ones to the surface, where they get rubbed off, even though we cannot see this taking place.

Your skin is an armor, providing protection from outside harm and a barrier to germs and foreign matter. Healthy skin can stand harsh weather and extreme temperatures of hot and cold that would damage your internal organs. It also plays an important part in the control of body temperature. When you are uncomfortably warm, radiation (the heat given off from your body) is made possible by perspiration, with its cooling effect. But in cold weather the pores close up and body heat is kept inside. Isn’t it interesting that skin permits moisture (sweating) to come out, but allows no moisture to go in, even if submerged in water?

The lines and whorls on our hands provide tiny ridges to grip objects that are to be handled. Those on the feet give a barefooted person sure contact wherever he walks. Perfectly smooth hands and feet would not work well at all. The little ridges were provided by a wise Creator. Fingerprints and footprints also form a positive means of identifying people—no two being alike.

Of what use are fingernails? They stiffen the finger tips and offer protection from injury as well. Without them it would be impossible for the fingers to pick up most small objects.

Skin has a remarkable ability to recover from injury. Even when serious damage takes place, healthy skin will heal itself, often leaving a scar to remind its owner of the help it has given him.

When our faith is in the Lord Jesus Christ, we learn that we have another armor which protects against the attacks of Satan. Two important parts of this armor are “the Word of God” (the Bible) and “the shield of faith.” When, with God’s help, we put these to use we can resist Satan and find joy in the Lord. This armor is explained fully in Ephesians, chapter six, verses ten through eighteen. It is good to read these scriptures often.

ML-04/12/1981

Rogilio

Memory Verse: 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

They called the little island “a tropical paradise” with sunshine, palm trees waving in the breezes, white sand and sparkling blue water. “Oh, it’s perfect, it’s perfect!” said visiting Mrs. James.

“Let’s wait and see,” said her husband.

There were soft breezes, beautiful flowers and sounds of guitar playing. “Oh, how happy everyone is here!” exclaimed Mrs. James.

“Are they really?” asked Mr. James. “Let’s find out.”

The chance to find out soon came. Rogilio, a boy about ten years old, knocked gently at their door looking for some business: shoes to shine, errands to run, anything that might bring him a few coins. They found some small jobs for him, and he began to tell them about his island. “Now this,” he would say, “is a jacaranda, and that bush that smells so sweet is jasmine, but that tree there is a mastic tree. It’s bad, very bad. Many bad spirits live there, and at night there are blue lights going up and down in it. Nobody, nobody goes by it at night! Sometimes I’m so scared!”

Here was Mr. James’s answer. It might be a tropical paradise, but the people lived in fear of evil spirits and black magic.

Even a small boy said, “I’m so scared.”

But there was an answer for Rogilio’s troubles. Sitting down with him, Mr. James opened his Bible and told him how God loved him. He showed Rogilio in the Bible how God’s Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, had come down from heaven to die to take away all his sins. He told him that if he believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, then he would go to live with Him in heaven. He finished by giving Rogilio a little Testament of his own to read.

Would he understand? Could years of superstitious fear be erased so quickly? The answer came the next day. Down the street came Rogilio, straight past the mastic tree, eyes shining and grin flashing.

“Oh, Mr. James,” he called, “I read in the book last night. I read all about the blood that washes away my sins. Oh, I’m so happy—I feel so good here!” and he placed his hand on his heart. He had no fear of evil spirits now.

ML-04/19/1981

"I Jus' Don't Have Nothin' the Matter With Me"

The Bible tells us that when Matthew responded to the request of the Lord Jesus to “follow Me,” he made a great feast in his own house for the Lord, and a great many publicans and others sat down with them. The religious leaders of that day didn’t like this and asked the disciples of Jesus why they “eat and drink with publicans and sinners.” Jesus answered them: “They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:31,32.

Isn’t this good news! Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners! I am happy to tell you that you are qualified for heaven. Don’t disqualify yourself by thinking that you are not a sinner in need of a Saviour.

Years ago, in a large city in the northeastern United States, a group was formed to help and encourage the handicapped children of that area. The group was called the GBPT, which stood for “The Guild for the Brave Poor Things.” They did many good things. Once every year they had a great party for all of the handicapped children, and it was always a very happy affair. A newspaper reporter was invited to visit one of these annual parties to observe their activities and to write a feature article for the newspaper. When he came into the entrance hall of the building he paused to look at row after row of “helps,” including crutches, wheelchairs, walkers, canes, braces, etc.—the symbols of their handicaps and sorrows. But then he heard singing and laughing inside the banquet hall. He went inside and discovered the happiest group of children he had ever seen. When he left, the reporter paused again in the hall to look at the “helps.” While doing this, he heard a little girl crying. Looking around, the reporter saw a beautiful little girl sitting on the stairs. She was very well dressed and didn’t seem to have anything wrong with her. He went to her and asked why she was crying. She sobbed: “I can’t go in with them ‘cause I jus’ don’t have nothin’ the matter with me.”

But that is not the way with God’s salvation. “There is no difference: for all have sinned.” Rom. 3:22,23. We are all candidates for heaven. None of us can say like that little girl, “We jus’ don’t have nothin’ the matter with us.” We are sinners, and Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.

The problem is that we say we are not so bad, or we are doing the best we can, or we are doing better every day, or that we can take care of ourselves—and thereby we disqualify ourselves for heaven.

Do not disqualify yourself for heaven. You are a sinner. There are only two groups—lost sinners, or saved sinners. Which are you? Do not say like the little girl: “I jus’ don’t have nothin’ the matter with me.” Rather say, “Christ is the Saviour of sinners, Christ is the Saviour for me.” Admit you are a sinner and in need, and Jesus will answer your cry for help. Then you will be among those who are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. (Rev. 19:9.)

ML-04/19/1981

The Loggerhead Turtle

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth... all things were created by Him, and for Him.” Col. 1:16.

If you were on a Caribbean island beach some dark night in early spring or late summer, you might become aware of a number of large creatures coming out of the surf. They drag themselves with much effort over the sand, up and up, until they arrive beyond the highest tidewater point. Curious to know what was taking place, you would (with the aid of a light) find these to be female Loggerhead Turtles. Each of these brownish-green turtles weighs close to 500 pounds (not as large as the Leatherbacks, which weigh up to a ton).

You would find her busily scooping sand with her flippers, making a hole about seven inches wide and almost two feet deep. After an hour of this tiresome work she will rest awhile, then place herself over this nest and proceed to lay her eggs. The eggs will be laid, one by one, every few seconds. They look like ping-pong balls. Usually between one and two hundred are deposited.

After she had finished you would see her scooping the sand back into the hole and patting it down firmly. She scatters the excess sand over the area, making it so natural looking that no one would suspect there was a nest below. All this time, looking closely, you might think she is crying, since there are tears running from her eyes. The fact is that this is nature’s way of washing out the sand that gets in them. When the job is complete she returns to the sea, soon disappearing in the waves.

In about two months the little ones hatch out. Before hatching, each baby turtle develops an “egg tooth” on the end of its nose. This is used to break out of the shell. It might seem they would die in their deep nest, but they work their way to the surface, which might take several days. As the baby turtles come to the surface, they run as fast as they can toward the ocean. Since they are only about the size of a silver dollar they must run fast, because there are many other creatures waiting to eat them. Birds, crabs, rats and other enemies take after them, and very few of these baby turtles make it across the beach. In the water there are sharks, fish of all kinds and more birds. Perhaps only half a dozen out of the whole nest manage to survive. In five to eight years they have reached full size. Then they are safe from natural enemies and live to a ripe old age.

Our lives are not as full of danger as these creatures’ lives are. God has graciously provided many benefits for each of us and cares for us most lovingly. He knows all our needs and our activities, too. It is written in the Bible: “Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee.” Eccl. 11:9. This is followed by the instruction: “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not.” Eccl. 12:1. What excellent God-given advice this is for us to follow!

ML-04/19/1981

April 28, 1981

Mildred's Trust

Memory Verse: “I will surely deliver thee ... because thou hast put thy trust in Me, saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 39:18

The train labored in the darkness, slowly snaking its way through the rugged canyons of the Rockies. Its eye of light was almost useless in the pouring rain. There was no way of knowing for sure if there were even any tracks ahead. The two grim-faced men in the engine knew that on ahead the tracks turned and twisted even more as they followed the canyon cut by the river. The sheer walls of these canyons in places hardly left any room for the railroad bed. As a result, the now raging river beside them was much too close for comfort.

“Jim, do you think we could back her out of here? I think the roadbed was a bit higher a mile or two back,” the fireman suggested.

Just then the two men ducked as a large object was thrown almost through the window into the side of the engine. They quickly saw that it was part of the track behind them—rail, ties and all! Now there could be no backing up or going forward either! The passengers on that train didn’t know that this furious storm had dumped six inches of rain in six hours. All of this rain ran down the mountains into the river beside them. If they had known this, they would have been more uneasy than they were. Now they were calmly told that the engineer had decided to wait out the storm.

Nine-year-old Mildred Ellis had at last dropped off to sleep with her head on her mother’s lap. She had so looked forward to this trip through the Rockies, hoping to see some deer, or perhaps even a bear, from the train window. Back in 1921 wildlife was plentiful and could often be seen running from the smoking “iron horse,” as these coal-powered engines were called. Weary of the rain, Mildred had fallen asleep. Mrs. Ellis was frightened.

She had felt the train lurch a few moments before. Suddenly there was a little shriek behind her. Someone had discovered the water! Yes, cold, muddy water was rising in the pullman car! Mrs. Ellis wakened Mildred, and they and others stood up on their seats. Steadily the water poured in until Mother hoisted her frightened Mildred to her shoulders. When the dark waters were swirling up to her chin, Mrs. Ellis almost gave up hope.

“Oh, Mother! What shall I do?” cried the little girl.

“Keep your chin up and pray,” was the calm answer.

It was then that Mildred began praying—not “Lord, save us!” No, “Jesus, I trust you!” she cried. Over and over again she said it—“Jesus, I trust you!”

And Jesus, Jehovah the Saviour, does not betray real trust in Him. The waters began slowly to go down. “I will surely deliver thee ... because thou hast put thy trust in Me, saith the Lord.” Jer. 39:18.

Mildred and her mother were soon able to climb out of a broken window and were later rescued. Just as Mildred and her mother were saved from the flood, so the Lord Jesus Christ will save anyone who will trust in Him from the terrible danger of eternal death. On Calvary’s cross the Lord Jesus bore the storm of God’s anger and punishment for our sins. The 69th Psalm describes the feelings of our Lord on the cross, saying, "... the waters are come in unto my soul. I sink in deep mire... the floods overflow Me.” 10:1,2. “All Thy waves and Thy billows are gone over Me.” Psa. 42:7. Our mighty Redeemer did not turn back from that cruel flood, but stood firm—victorious! Now He is risen and can take us out of death, too. But each one of us, like Mildred, must say, “Jesus, I trust you!”

“If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Rom. 10:9.

ML-04/26/1981

A Little Orphan

It was on a visit to a nearby village that we found poor, little orphan Mambwe. She was a pitiful sight, so neglected. We had never seen anyone so dirty and ragged. But worst of all, she was crippled. Jiggers, small crawling insects that live in the dust, had burrowed under the skin of her toes and hands, crippling them. None of the insects had ever been removed. The eggs they laid in little sacks had hatched out, digging in wherever they could.

The Lord Jesus loved Mambwe. He wanted to save her. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

Her uncle promised to carry Mambwe to the mission station. There she could hear the Gospel and also get rid of the jiggers. In a few days she arrived at the station.

First of all she was scrubbed and given a clean dress. How different she looked! It was quite a problem digging out those many jiggers, and it was very painful to Mambwe. Finally, after many days they were gone. She began to walk slowly and could go with other girls to pound corn into meal for porridge.

She was given a small hut with a mud-thatched roof near our house. It was close to an open shed (called a kinzanza) where Maripine did the laundry along with other odd jobs. He barred her door at night from the outside to keep her safe from wild animals.

One day Maripine got some tasty, dried fish. He put it on a shelf in the kinzanza. He beat the drum and left, to be gone for the noon hour. Now was a good time for Mambwe to get some fish, she thought. No one was around, so no one could see her climb on a stool to get it. She didn’t know that there was One who saw what she did. We know it was God. “Thou God seest me.” Gen. 16:13. Wouldn’t it be helpful to realize that the Lord Jesus not only sees what we do, hears what we say, but also knows what we think? It might keep us from sinning against Him.

Maripine returned to work and in the late afternoon reached up on the shelf for the fish to eat with his evening meal. It was gone! Who had tan it? He guessed it was Mambwe. Right away he went to ask her. “Did you take my fish?” She said she didn’t know anything about it. He was not satisfied with her answer, so he searched the hut and found the remains hidden under a blanket.

When it was dark we heard loud screaming and crying. Quickly the lantern was lighted, and off we hurried to Mambwe’s hut to find out what had happened. When she saw us she quieted down and said that Maripine had not barred her door. She was afraid the wild animals would get her. We thought “Oh, Maripine just forgot.”

The next morning he told the fish story. He had left her door unbarred on purpose, because she took the fish. That was the punishment she deserved, he decided. “Be sure your sin will find you out.” Num. 32:23. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9.

Mambwe learned that it was wrong to steal. Stealing is sin, and all sin has to be punished. We, too, are sinners—everyone of us. God tells us in the Bible that “All have sinned.” Rom. 3:23. It was because of sin that the Lord Jesus Christ suffered and died on the cross. It was not for His sin, but for ours. The Lord Jesus was the sinless One. There was nothing in Him that could sin. Yet He loved us so much that He took the punishment for our sins. Won’t you accept Him as your Saviour and have all your sins washed away in His precious blood?

ML-04/26/1981

The Burden Was Gone

A man was carrying a large bag of potatoes into his house. His neighbor stopped him and said, “I hear you have become a Christian. How do you know Jesus has saved you?”

The man took a few steps and then dropped the bag of potatoes from his back to the ground and said, “How do I know I have dropped the bag of potatoes? I have not looked around.”

Hid neighbor replied, “You know you have dropped them because you do not feel their heavy weight on your back.”

“That is how I know I am a Christian. I no longer have the heavy burden of my sins upon me. Jesus has given me peace and joy!”

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

ML-04/26/1981

Travelers of the Bird World

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“I know all the fowls of the mountains... the world is Mine, and the fullness thereof.” Psa. 50:11,12.

Billions of birds migrate north each spring and south in the autumn. Big birds, little birds, and those in-between make up these numbers—many flying in great flocks and some making the journey alone.

Included among the great companies are the tiny Tennessee Warblers, which weigh only about one-half ounce. They travel 3000 miles overland every fall from Canada and the northern United States to Central and South America and then return in the spring. The Wood Warbler and the Blackpoll follow much the same pattern, some making an 86-hour nonstop trip over water to and from South America.

The greatest traveler of all, though, is the Arctic Tern. Every year it makes a flight from the top to the bottom of the world and back—a total distance of over 22,000 miles! This pretty Tern is about the size of a seagull. It has a forked tail and is completely white, except for a black cap and orange beak, legs and feet. It nests farther north than any other bird, often within 450 miles of the North Pole. There it raises its young during the spring and summer months.

In August or September the Terns take off on their great trip. Most of them go to the extreme southern parts of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and on beyond to the Antarctic Circle. Sometimes there are millions of them in such flights. Those nesting in Labrador and Greenland always fly across the Atlantic to Europe. From there, as though there were markers showing the way, they turn south to the west coast of Africa. At the foot of Africa they turn again, flying southeast to the Antarctic region. How do they know where to turn each time?

Those nesting in Alaska and Siberia go south along the Pacific Coast to Chile and Argentina. Some stay there while others continue south to the Antarctic to winter on the ice pack. Of course, our winter months are actually summer months in that part of the globe, because the seasons are reversed south of the Equator. The birds remain there until April, when they return north.

The Tern is mainly a fish eater, although it will not refuse bugs and other insects. While migrating over the ocean, it will drop to the surface from time to time, catch a fish in its specially designed bill, and continue on its way without stopping.

Surely these truly miraculous activities of the Arctic Tern impress us with the wonders of God’s creation. Over the centuries they remain obedient to the instructions the Creator-God has given them. The Lord desires us to obey His Word, too. He warns: “Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle.... Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about.” Psa. 32:9,10. If we know Him as our Saviour, our real happiness will be in obeying Him.

ML-04/26/1981

May 3, 1981

Trapped in Sand Cave

Memory Verse: “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man; but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 16:25

Drops of cold, icy water dripped off the roof of the cave onto Floyd Collins. He was trapped in a cave 50 feet below the surface of the ground. Outside, the sun shone brightly as rescuers dug desperately to tunnel down to him. Inside Sand Cave the only sounds that Floyd could hear were the dripping of water and the cold wind that blew through the black tunnels, where there had never been any sunlight.

The day before, Floyd had inched his way through an 18-inch opening in one of the tunnels of Sand Cave. He was looking for an inner cave—a huge, domed cathedral of rock he had heard about.

Floyd moved through the narrow tunnel slowly and cautiously. He was an experienced cave explorer who had spent most of his boyhood and adult life investigating caves and caverns beneath the earth’s surface. As he squirmed through the small opening he saw above him an enormous boulder, held in place by one small rock. He moved past the boulder, being careful not to bump the supporting rock.

He crawled from the tunnel and saw it—the cave of his dreams! He had come into a vast, inner chamber many feet below the surface. Stalactites, which came down from the ceiling, and stalagmites, which came up from the floor, were everywhere. Some were joined in immense glittering columns of stone. The ceiling was a hundred feet high; the length and width were larger than he could estimate. He knew that at last he had discovered the cave for which he had been searching!

Full of excitement and anxious to tell others what he had found, Floyd began the return trip to the surface. Once again he wedged himself into the narrow opening of the tunnel, moving along on his knees and elbows. Then it happened!

In his excitement he had not moved carefully enough past the huge boulder. His foot brushed against the small rock that held it in place. The boulder shifted just a few inches, but it was enough to crush down on Floyd’s left ankle, pinning him there.

He twisted about frantically, pulling his leg up, trying to twist his ankle free. The huge boulder was immovable! Scraping moisture from the walls, he tried to wet his ankle. He hoped this would allow him to slip it out from under the terrible weight that pressed it down. This also failed. He grasped his left knee with both hands and tugged until he was sure his ankle was coming apart. It was of no use. He was caught—held captive in the deep earth he loved to explore! He lay back panting with the searing pain in his foot and tried to keep calm.

Floyd Collins was powerless. He had seen the danger, but thought he could avoid it. His search for something special had urged him on, but now he was caught. There are many people who have been warned about the dangers of sin, but they are not paying attention to the warnings.

They continue to enjoy the “pleasures of sin” (Heb. 11:25), ignoring the warnings of God’s Word. The Bible warns us of punishment to come if we continue in sin. It tells us that the only hope for a sinner is the Lord Jesus Christ. His death on the cross was for those who would believe on Him. Knowing that we are sinners, we can turn to the work that the Lord Jesus Christ has already done for us. There on the cross He was punished for our sins. He had committed no sin Himself and was the only perfect Man, but He was punished for you and me. He is the only way of escape. Do not ignore the warnings—turn back! Accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your own Saviour and know that your sins are washed away in His precious blood. “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

As the hours passed, Floyd waited to be rescued. He knew that he would be missed and that rescuers would be searching for him.

Floyd kept thinking about what must be going on outside of Sand Cave. There was much activity. Earth-moving equipment, rescuers and many other emergency people had been called to the cave by Floyd’s brother. Three experienced cave-exploring teams were formed. Each team was to enter one of the three entrances to Sand Cave.

Inside the cave Floyd was beginning to feel panicky. He was cold from the continuously dripping water. His body and face were covered with sand and small rocks that had been loosened by his twisting and turning. As he lay there he could only hope, think and pray that help would come soon. It had to come!

Then he heard a scraping noise and voices. He saw a light. It was his brother and those with his rescue team. Floyd yelled frantically to them, begging them to hurry. They squeezed into the narrow tunnel and tried to move the boulder off Floyd’s ankle. It was impossible to move! Excited, tense, hungry and yet filled with hope, Floyd begged them to get more help and equipment and to get food. They left their lamp with Floyd and crawled out quickly to get more help.

Even though Floyd had been found, he still was not rescued. Teams of workers began digging another tunnel beside the one that Floyd was in. They planned to dig a connecting shaft to the tunnel where Floyd was trapped.

For 48 hours the men dug as hard as they could, but problems continued to hinder them. The tunnel would collapse after heavy rain. Often the sand walls would collapse as fast as they were dug. Each foot of the new tunnel had to be supported before they could go on.

Meanwhile, Floyd’s physical and mental condition were getting worse. The tunnel in which he was trapped had collapsed, cutting off the contact he had with those who were trying to reach him. They worked to establish contact, but the rain was causing problems in this tunnel also.

It was several days before the rescuers were able to reach Floyd again. When they did reach him, they found him dead! He had died of exposure and exhaustion.

The rescue of Floyd Collins had failed. Although many hundreds of people worked to save him, their efforts were of no use.

The rescue of a sinner is hopeless by any way other than by the Lord Jesus Christ. It is only by His death on the cross, where He suffered for our sins, that we can be rescued. The Bible tells us that “There is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12. This is the only hope for sinners. This is the only way to escape the punishment that each one of us deserves. We are all sinners, and we need a Saviour. The Lord Jesus Christ is that Saviour. Won’t you accept Him as your own personal Saviour today?

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

ML-05/03/1981

The Cicada Killer

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“I will meditate also of all Thy work, and talk of Thy doings.” Psalms 77:12.

In summer the shrill chorus of many singing cicadas (locusts) can be very annoying. The noise goes on steadily with no break until suddenly, as if by a signal, they stop for a few moments and there is silence. But soon they are back at it again.

What the cicadas don’t know is that while they are singing, female wasps are hunting them. After finding a cicada, the wasp plunges her stinger into its nerve center. This paralyzes the cicada, but it continues to live. Then, firmly grasping it, the wasp tumbles to the ground. There she turns the cicada on its back so it can be pulled, head first, like a sled. The wasp’s purpose is to take the unconscious cicada to one of the many burrows she has dug in the ground. If obstacles make sledding too difficult, the wasp climbs part way up a tree trunk carrying her victim who weighs six times more than she does. From there she takes off, wings flapping furiously, sailing through the air as far as possible. She may repeat this several times before the trip is finished.

When she finally reaches the burrow, she drags the cicada to the bottom where she has already prepared a little room. There she lays an egg, placing it under the insect. Then she goes back out to catch another cicada. This process is repeated until two or three cicadas are brought to each burrow and an egg placed under each one. Then she leaves the tunnel and fills it with dirt.

In a few days the eggs hatch and begin life by feeding on the cicadas. After a week or so of growing on this food, the larva spins a cocoon around itself and remains underground through the cold winter. In early summer it changes into a pupa and shortly breaks out of the cocoon as an adult wasp. It then has to claw its way through the soil to get out of the burrow—a very hard job. Surprisingly, as a full-grown wasp its appetite is no longer for cicadas, but it feeds entirely on near. It is only when the mothers want to provide “cold storage” food for their little ones that cicadas are captured.

How does the female know where to place her stinger, paralyzing, but not killing, her victim? How does she know to place an egg under it so the little one will have food for its start in life? Who taught the babies to crawl up through the soil to escape their underground quarters? Surely we all agree that these instincts are given by God, who created and cares for them.

But have you stopped to think how much more marvelous are the things He has done for us? He gives us life and sustains it day by day. He also gives eternal life to all those who accept the salvation He offers. Salvation is provided through faith in His beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who died on Calvary’s cross for us. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved,” is His promise. Have you accepted this invitation?

ML-05/03/1981

Minnie's Cake

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

The days were long and lonely for five-year-old Minnie after her brothers and sister had returned to school. They didn’t get back home until 4:30 in the afternoon, because they had a long ride on the school bus. For about the twenty-fifth time Minnie had asked, “How long till they get home, Mama? You said it wouldn’t be long now, but it has been!”

Her mother sighed and began, “Now when the little hand gets to....”

“Wait, Mamma! I have an idea! I’ll bake a cake and surprise them!”

Her mother was so busy she didn’t stop to think before she surprised herself by saying, “Well, all right, but you’ll have to do it by yourself. I’m much too busy to help you.”

Minnie was dazzled at this dream come true—to cook all by herself! Now, Minnie had never baked a cake before, but she had been a close-at-elbow helper many times when her mother had. First she tied a large apron around her middle and talked softly to herself: “A bowl, an egg and an eggbeater—oh, this has got to be really good!” Happily she beat the egg and was just ready to pour in an unknown quantity of milk when her mother breezed in with a heart-shaped pan. Shiny-eyed, Minnie exclaimed, “That means I must color it red! Oh please, Mamma?”

“Okay, but take it easy there; not too much milk and flour. See, dear, this is a small pan.”

Minnie’s spirits soared as she added “the stuff to make it goof up.” It was so much fun stirring the pretty pink batter. She smiled to herself as she thought of how good she was at making cakes. Soon a beautifully rounded cake with such a nice smell was cooling in the kitchen.

“I didn’t even taste it once,” she beamed sweetly. “It’s all for Tommy, Robbie and Sue.”

Robbie was the first to come home. Minnie cut him a large piece of the pretty pink cake. It was still warm and looked so good. Minnie stood by waiting for the compliments.

“Oh, yuk! It’s like eggy-tasting biscuit with tons of vanilla!” he sputtered.

Sadly, Minnie tasted her cake—no sugar, and Robbie was right—there was way too much vanilla. It really was no good. And she had thought she was so smart by planning such a nice surprise!

Is your life like Minnie’s cake? Is the most important ingredient missing—the sweetness of the love of the Lord Jesus in your heart? Without Him your life can only be a disappointment and a waste. Now, Minnie had tried very hard. Her reasons were very good, but she had no recipe and no directions. In living our lives here we do have a guidebook, the Bible. God wants us to follow it. It is not our way, but His way we are to go. When Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” we had better listen. Although God says of our hearts, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked...” (Jer. 17:9), He also tells us that “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7. Our hearts were made to be filled with Him, His sweet love and peace. Did He not bleed and die on the cross to make it possible? Admit to God that what He says about your heart is true, for you know it is deep down inside. Let Him add that sweetness and joy to your life.

“How sweet are Thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth.” Psalms 119:103.

Sir Isaac Newton had a friend who, like himself, was a scientist. Newton was a Christian and loved the Lord Jesus Christ. His friend was not a Christian. He didn’t even believe that there was a God! Newton had spoken to his friend many times about how God had created such a wonderful universe. Each time, though, his friend would shake his head saying “no", and reply that the universe “just happened.”

Newton had finished the design of a scale model of our solar system. A very skilled craftsman then built it from Newton’s plans. In the center was a large ball made of brass, which represented the sun. Revolving around this sun were smaller balls attached to spokes of different lengths. These balls represented the planets, and the spokes placed them at the proper distances from the sun. All of these balls, representing Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune, were in their proper order. (Today we know that the planet Pluto is also in our solar system, but Neon did not know this.) These balls were all geared together so that when a crank on the front was turned, they all moved in their orbits around the sun.

One day Newton was in his study reading when his friend came to visit him. His friend saw the model and instantly recognized what it was. As he slowly cranked the model, he studied it closely. He said to Newton, “This is tremendous! Who made it?”

“Nobody,” Newton answered without looking up from his book.

His friend turned to him with a confused look and said, “You must not have heard me. I asked, ‘Who made this wonderful model?’”

Looking up, Newton said with a perfectly straight face, “Nobody made it. Those balls and gears just appeared and put themselves tether!”

His friend, now quite upset, said, “You must think I’m a fool! Of course somebody made this! He’s a genius, and I’d like to meet him!”

Newton set his book aside and slowly walked across the room to his friend. As they stood in front of the model, Newton explained to his friend; “This model is just a poor imitation of our wonderful universe. You know the laws and the precise order which governs our universe. I can’t seem to convince you that this model, this toy, does not have a designer or a maker. However, you have said many times that the solar system, which this model represents, ‘just happened.’ Now tell me, is that the logical conclusion of a scientist?”

Newton’s friend quickly understood how foolish he had been. He realized that there had to be a Master Designer and a Master Creator for everything! It wasn’t long after accepting the thought that God was the Creator, that he also accepted Him as his Saviour.

Have you accepted Him as your Saviour?

“In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” Genesis 1:1.

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

“As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” John 1:12.

ML-05/10/1981

A Bad Path

A Christian man was staying at a friend’s house out in the country. One morning he took a walk, and his friend’s little boy went along with him. They soon came to a path which led through the pasture. It looked so pretty with lots of clover blossoms and buttercups. When the man turned to go down the path, his young friend stopped him.

“I don’t think you should go that way,” the boy said.

“Why not?” asked the man. “It looks like a real nice path.”

The boy answered, “That path was made by the pigs. Before you go very far on it you’ll get into the awfulest place of muck and weeds that you ever saw! You just can’t get through it!”

This is also true of the path of sin. It may seem pleasant and inviting at first, but the end of that path will be terrible! The Bible shows us the way that God wants us to take: “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.

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

ML-05/10/1981

The All-Important Sun

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“The heavens declare the glory of God... in them hath He set a tabernacle (home) for the sun... His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and His circuit unto the ends of it.” Psalms 19:1,4,6.

Without the sun, all life on earth would cease. It is the source of all energy, starting with photosynthesis (the process by which plants use the energy of sunlight to produce their own food) produced in green plants and trees and the food they supply. It evaporates water from the oceans. This water vapor fills the air, providing humidity to keep living things from shriveling, as well as providing the moisture for rain. The sun’s heat produces winds, refreshing the air. These winds stir up the oceans and lakes, adding oxygen which freshens them also. It is the source of light for an otherwise dark and dead world.

The sun is almost 93 million miles from the earth, but it takes only eight minutes for its light to reach us. In spite of passing through the cold regions of space, none of its heat is lost. Its full benefit falls in just the right proportions on Earth’s various zones.

The composition of the earth and its distance from the sun are exactly right for the forms of life the Creator has placed here. To provide the fullest benefits, God has tilted the earth’s axis by 23 degrees. This exposes various parts of the world to the sun’s radiation in such a way as to make possible the cultivation of twice as much land as would be possible if the earth were always at the same angle to the sun.

In space there are stars estimated to be two billion times brighter than our sun, but God has made it just right for our needs. It is 860,000 miles in diameter and if it were hollow it could contain over a million earths! It is a huge nuclear furnace, changing four to five million tons of its matter into energy every second. Yet it does not burn itself out, nor become smaller in size. Who but God could provide such a furnace as this!

The sun dominates the nine plats of our solar system and is responsible for holding each one in its course. No collisions are possible, because the speed of each planet as it travels in its orbit, together with the gravitational pull of the sun, makes it maintain a uniform distance at all times.

Who do you think put these heavenly bodies in such a precise pattern? Who set their speed through space and established their travels around the sun so accurately? Only God, who put all this in motion, could have kept them in the same circuits and timetables ever since they were created.

David, impressed with the majesty of the heavens, referred to the Lord as his sun and shield. Is He your sun and shield, too?

“The Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly. O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in Thee.” Psalms 84:11,12.

ML-05/10/1981

A Year Later

Memory Verse: “He hath appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world in righteousness by that Man whom He hath ordained.” Acts 17:31

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof.” Psalms 46:1-3.

These verses from the Bible really impressed David Crockett. He read them a short time after living through a terrifying experience and dramatic rescue from Mount St. Helens. One year ago tomorrow, May 18, 1980, Mount St. Helens erupted. Millions of words have been written describing the scene, the devastation, the experiences of some who escaped, and the horror of those who did not. One of the most remarkable stories is the experience of David Crockett.

He had awakened at 3:00 a.m. that Sunday morning. He was a news cameraman assigned to report daily on what the mountain was doing. So he was well acquainted with “The Lady", as the mountain was called. She was snowcapped and beautiful—a very impressive sight. Her heavily forested slopes and beautiful winding rivers were a delight to explore. “But this is not a working day,” David thought to himself, “and it’s only 3:00 in the morning.” As hard as he tried, he could not go back to sleep. He got up, dressed, took his cameras and climbed into his car for the 150-mile trip to the mountain.

As he turned off the highway to follow the winding Toutle River towards the mountain, he really wondered if anything was going to happen today. Ever since the mountain had begun quaking and snorting steam two months before, scientists and newsmen had clustered around it to study and to report on its activities. No one knew, of course, exactly what would happen, or when.

David drove up along the south fork of the Toutle River, since he thought this would give him the best view of the summit. He continued up the peaceful valley to within a mile of the peak. He found a good place to stop with a perfect view of the mountain. He got out of his car, stretched and glanced at his wristwatch. It was 8:30 a.m. What a beautiful morning!

Picking up his camera, he focused it on the mountain to take a few pictures. It wasn’t light enough as yet to pick out any details other than the outline of tall trees and winding logging roads. Everything was hushed and calm. As he was focusing his camera on the peak of the beautiful mountain, he was suddenly startled. A frightening, immense, black plume of smoke suddenly rocketed from the peak. More angry-looking plumes rocked skyward. As they billowed larger and larger they joined together, forming boiling black clouds.

David took several pictures of the incredible sequence, but he was hardly ready for what happened next.

As he looked through his camera, he saw the whole side of the mountain moving at the bulge that scientists had said was the most dangerous area. Frozen to the spot, he watched as it moved, first slowly, then faster and faster—straight into the valley where he was standing!

Realizing his danger, David lead into his car, whipped it around, and raced back down the mountain road. Through the rearview mirror he saw a horrifying sight! An immense 20-foot-high wall of what looked like steaming, wet cement was overtaking him like a speeding tidal wave! Churning with boulders and stumps, it charged madly on, snapping giant trees like twigs and burying everything in its path. He was sure he could not outrun it!

He floored the gas pedal, and his car bounced and swayed wildly down the mountain road at 70 miles per hour. But he could see the tidal wave of molten mud looming higher and higher in his rearview mirror. It was moving at nearly 150 miles per hour, he learned later! “Find higher ground!” flashed across his mind.

As he frantically tried to outrun the boiling mudslide, he came to a turnoff road. He skidded onto the narrow logging road and had just come to a slight rise of land when the steaming, roaring wall of hot mud caught up to him! It struck a little valley beyond him with a thundering boom. The road ahead exploded, trees and rocks skyrocketing 100 feet into the air!

He slammed on the brakes, skiing on the gravel road, shifted into reverse and started backwards, but the road behind him was gone, too! He was caught on a tiny island, surrounded by a raging torrent of hot ooze.

David was trapped—with no way out! Satan has men, women, boys and girls trapped—with no way out! Satan’s trap is SIN. Without the help of the Lord Jesus Christ there would be no way to escape from Satan’s trap. He defeated Satan at the cross. There He was punished for the sins of everyone who will believe on Him. Won’t you accept Him as your own Saviour? Only believe that His blood, shed on the cross, was for you. It is this blood that can wash away all your sins. Then you will be free from Satan’s trap! “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” John 8:36.

Only about five minutes had passed since the mountain first began erupting. David knew that he had to get off the little island of higher ground where he was strand. He was sure that the next mudslide would quickly cover it. He saw a hill about 200 feet ahead. Leaving his car he decided to try to reach it.

Cautiously, he touched the mud that was still flowing slowly by. He was surprised to find that it was not hot, just warm. Stepping into the mud, his foot sunk to solid ground. Step by step he waded through the mud. At times it was up to his waist. Finally, he reached higher ground, but he was exhausted.

As he rested it started getting dark, even though it was only 9:00 in the morning. Heavy, dense clouds of volcanic ash blackened the sky. It fell like fine sand and was so thick that it was difficult to breathe. He pushed on to the top of the hill. Sitting down he waited, afraid he was going to die and praying that someone would save him.

Help finally did arrive many hours later. Helicopters, searching for survivors, spotted him in what was now an ash-covered, desolate wasteland. The helicopter had proems lowering a basket, because the blades of the helicopter whipped up thick clouds of ash. It was impossible to see, but David finally grasped it. The helicopter pulled him to safety!

It would have been foolish for David to have refused the rescue by the helicopters. Yet there are many people today who are refusing God’s way to be saved and are trying to find their own way. David could not rescue himself, and there is no way that a sinner can be saved other than through the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. Don’t wait another minute! He wants you to open your heart to Him. He is waiting. “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.” Revelation 3:20.

ML-05/17/1981

The Crocodile's Friend

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“Thy judgments are a great deep: O Lord, Thou preservest man and beast.” Psalms 36:6.

We are all familiar with the vicious-looking jaws and teeth of the crocodile, which are able to rip apart the flesh of almost any anal. But while these teeth are very strong and sharp, they sometimes become infested with maggots (tiny worms) and other parasites, which may give the crocodile a “toothache.” However, God’s wonderful creation has provided an unusual way to relieve this problem.

When the crocodile needs dental attention, he will crawl onto a bank and lie with jaws wide open, sometimes going to sleep in that position. Soon a little bird, the Spurwing Plover (sometimes called the Crocodile Bird), comes along and sees the open mouth as an invitation to a tasty meal. It goes right into those terrible-looking jaws and hops around the inside of the crocodile’s mouth, eating all the parasites. When it is finished, those big teeth are all clean and ready to go into action again.

What an amazing thing this is! The crocodile usually snaps its jaws closed on any object that touches them—except, that is, when it is the Crocodile Bird. Somehow it knows that this bird is its friend, and it will not harm it.

The Plover also helps the crocodile in other ways. Flies are always bothering these big creatures. They attack their eyes and sometimes cause infections to begin in them. After finishing its dental duties, the little bird goes after these flies, much to the relief of its big companion.

It is doubtful that either the bird or the crocodile perform this way because of any real friendship, but rather because there are benefits gained by both of them. Yet we cannot help but wonder at this unusual relationship. It is another example of how the divine Creator watches over all His own.

How does this little bird know it will not be crushed in the jaws of the big reptile? What keeps the crocodile from snapping its jaws shut when the bird is inside them? Surely they never had opportunity to practice this relationship. The answer is that this was arranged by God, whose interest is not only in creating, but also in taking care of all His creatures.

While the crocodile does not harm the little Plover, it will quickly attack anything else. Its ways rind us of an enemy whose evil ways would trap us and of whom we are warned: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” 1 Peter 5:8. This enemy wants to keep our thoughts away from God, knowing that when he does it only leads to sorrow and judgment. Our resource, through faith, is in the Saviour, who “is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him.” Hebrews 7:25. Is your trust in Him?

ML-05/17/1981

Lost at Sea

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

Johnny Bartek was excited. He was going to be flying on the same plane as Captain Eddie Rickeacker. Johnny was just an airman on the plane; however, like everyone else he had important jobs to do. But to have the most famous person in aviation in the same plane—that was really exciting!

Eddie Rickenbacker was America’s best-known pilot during World War I. After the war he was actively involved in the developing airline industry. Now the country was at war again. He was helping the country by making an inspection trip of airplane facilities in the South Pacific.

The bomber lifted off the runway in Honolulu for the 1800 mile trip to Canton Island. Johnny’s job during the flight was to keep a constant watch on the gasoline levels and to switch tanks when necessary. It was also his job to make sure that the landing gear operated properly and was firmly locked in place when the plane was making its landing approach.

Johnny was different from the other eight members of the flight crew—he was a Christian. He knew the Lord Jesus Christ as his own Saviour. Everyone knew Johnny as “the kid with the Bible.” He took his share of kidding, especially at first, from the other members of the crew. They were older than he was and did not like to have Johnny speak to them about Christ.

As the plane flew across the ocean, the weather turned bad. The pilot was forced to fly entirely by instruments. It was then they discovered that the instruments were not working properly. The pilot soon realized that they were lost—lost in the vast Pacific Ocean, with no way of being rescued. They made radio contact with a ship, but they did not know where they were. The plane “crash-landed” in the ocean after running out of fuel. All eight men were able to get into the three life rafts they threw out of the plane. However, the only food they had was four oranges.

These men were in a frightening situation! They were lost in the ocean with no drinking water, and had only four oranges to divide among the eight of them. As strong and as brave as these men were, there was nothing they could do for themselves. They were helpless!

The sinner without Christ is also helpless. The Bible tells us that “there is no difference; for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:22,23. As sinners away from God, we are lost! The men in the three life rafts could only drift in the ocean. Even if they knew which way they wanted to go, they had no way of getting there. They needed someone to rescue them. God saw us in our helpless condition, drifting along in sin, and sent His only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to rescue us. We are sinners, and God must punish sin. The Lord Jesus took the punishment for our sins on Calvary’s cross. If we believe that He died for our sins, we are saved. It is His blood, which was shed on the cross, that protects us from the punishment we deserve for our sins.

At first the eight men didn’t worry about their situation. They knew they would be reported as missing and that search planes would soon be looking for them. What they didn’t know was that they were so far off their planned course that search planes could not locate them.

Day after day the hot, tropical sun burned down on them. They were continually drenched with spray from the waves. Between their sunburn and the salt water, they developed painful sores over much of their bodies. One of the oranges was divided each day among the eight men. All this did was make them wish for more. After four days the oranges were gone.

One day while Johnny was reading his Bible, someone suggested that he read it out loud. After that, each day the rafts drew together for prayer and the reading of the Bible.

Five days after they had crashed, Johnny read Matthew 6:31-34 to them: “Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”

Johnny had been praying that the Lord would send them something to eat. God answered Johnny’s prayer in a very special way. Captain Rickenbacker was sitting with his eyes closed when he felt something land on his head. Opening his eyes, he could tell from the looks of the other men that it must be something that could be eaten. Very slowly he moved his right hand up to his hat, a fraction of an inch at a time, so as not to scare off the bird. His hand was guided by the eyes of the others who were watching. When his hand was close to where he felt the bird should be, he grabbed it! He closed his hand on the leg of a large sea gull.

The gull was used as food for the eight men. However, they saved parts of it to be used as bait for the fishing hook and line that was in the raft. They soon caught other fish, which the men quickly ate.

The Lord also answered Johnny’s prayer for water. A thunderstorm passed over them. They caught the rain in canvas covers which were in the rafts, pouring it into the bailing buckets. They drank all the water they could. The heavy rainfall also washed the salt from their sores.

During the three and one-half weeks, the eight men suffered much. One of the men, who had been injured in the crash, died. The other seven men survived because of the frequent rainstorms and fish that the Lord provided. Some of these fish even jumped right into the rafts!

The Air Force continued to search for these men. They were finally spotted and rescued nearly 500 miles from Canton Island, where their flight had been headed. Sever-

al of the men were in very poor condition when they were rescued, but they all recovered.

God continues to seek those who will trust in Him. We must first realize that we are lost, because of our sins, and on our way to hell. If we understand that we are sinners and cannot help ourselves, then we can ask the Lord Jesus to save us. He has “come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10. For those who accept Him as their Saviour, He has promised to “save them... that come unto God by Him.” Hebrews 7:25. He is a wonderful Saviour. Have you accepted Him as your own Saviour?

“Now, in Christ Jesus, ye who sometime were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.” Ephesians 2:13.

ML-05/24/1981

The Stolen Doll

One day Joan visited Aunt Jennie. She saw a little doll on Aunt Jennie’s dresser. She liked the doll. When no one was watching, she took it and hid it under her sweater on the bed.

A little while later Aunt Jennie said, “I wonder where that doll went. It was here a little while ago. It must be somewhere.”

Aunt Jennie began to search for the doll while Joan sat on the floor looking at a book. She was only five years old, but she knew what she had done was wrong. She had stolen the doll.

Suddenly Joan thought to herself, “What if Aunt Jennie looks under my sweater?” She called out, “Aunt Jennie, don’t look under my swear.”

Of course Aunt Jennie did look under her sweater. Then she knew what Joan had done. She asked Joan to come sit down beside her. She told Joan about the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God. She explained to her very simply that even though the Lord Jesus was perfect and could never sin, He loved us so much He went to the cross to be punished for our sins. He was punished for sins just like Joan’s taking that doll that didn’t belong to her. She also told Joan that the Lord Jesus wants children just like her to ask Him to wash away their sins. He wants Joan and every other boy and girl to believe that “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.

ML-05/24/1981

Termites and Their Ways

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“Yea, the darkness hideth not from Thee... the darkness and the light are both alike to Thee.” Psalms 139:12.

The unwelcome termites are found throughout the world. Living in large colonies complete with workers, soldiers, queens and nurses, they seek out dark places and never come out in the open, except when swarming to establish new colonies.

The workers, along with the baby nymphs, form the largest part of each colony. They never leave the nest, even at swarming time. Their lives are spent tunneling and feeding on the wood. They digest the wood and feed it to the king and queen and the babies, which cannot feed themselves.

The queen’s responsibility is to provide eggs to keep the colony growing. Soon after mating she takes on this duty, after swelling up with eggs until she is much larger than the workers. In fact, this load of eggs is so great that she has to finally settle down in her royal chamber where she will stay the rest of her life, producing millions of eggs during that time.

The workers stand by to take the eggs as soon as they are laid. They lick each one clean before placing it in the nursery area. It takes many months for the eggs to hatch and the young termites to fully develop. During its development, each nymph is blind and helpless. It could not survive if the workers did not take care of it by constantly bringing it food to eat.

Most of the soldier termites have big, armored heads and can attack enemies fiercely. Standing guard over the nest they often push their heads into the entrances to keep intruders out. If danger appears they make sharp noises, calling other soldiers to help them.

Termite homes are kept very clean. They are almost always found where it is dark and moist, because they cannot survive under any other condition. Where it is necessary to cross exposed areas, they make tunnels of mud. These are usually built by soldiers who are provided with specially pointed snouts. They have the ability to produce a liquid cement for holding the mud in place. In Australia a species known as “Compass Termites” build nests up to twenty feet above ground, with perhaps a million residents. The sides of these nests always face east and west, with the ends pointing north and south. Lost travelers are often saved by using such nests as compasses. Since these nests are exposed to the hot sun, the termites build ventilating flues into them to maintain a constant cool temperature.

These creatures, seeking dark places and hiding their activities, remind us of those persons who “love darkness rather than light.” They foolishly think they can hide evil deeds. But we are told, “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.” Proverbs 15:3. The verse at the beginning of this article also rinds us of the One from whom nothing can be hidden.

But we are happy to tell you that the Lord Jesus Christ, who knows all the secrets of our hearts, loves us and invites us to come to Him as the Saviour of sinners. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9.

ML-05/24/1981

Rescued at Sea

Memory Verse: “The Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20

The USS Benevolence, a Navy hospital ship, was returning from a trial run. While in a blinding fog two miles from the Golden Gate bridge, it collided with a freighter, the Mary Luckenbach. Because it was a trial run, the Benevolence carried two full crews: a navy crew and a civilian crew. A total of 526 persons were aboard. She sank within half an hour.

At the same time, John Napoli was heading home in his boat with a load of fish, after fishing most of the day. He had caught 550 pounds of fish, and was on his way back to his home port.

He was about two miles from the Golden Gate bridge when all of a sudden a Coast Guard boat moved out of the mist toward him. A voice over a loud speaker boomed: “We need your assistance. Follow me. There’s been a shipwreck.”

Napoli followed the Coast Guard boat to the area of the wreck. It was still so foggy that he could hardly see. Suddenly, he saw something bobbing in the water. It was a man, so he quickly pulled him in.

About then the fog lifted, and Napoli could see many heads boing up and down in the water. Then, just as quickly as it had lifted, the fog settled in again. But John Napoli had seen enough in those few seconds. He knew that there was work to do.

Slowly, he cruised through the area, pulling in survivors. Many were injured, and they were all in shock from the cold. As more and more survivors were brought in, the boxes of fish had to be thrown overboard to make room for the men. Napoli didn’t worry about that.

When he couldn’t hold any more people in his boat, he searched out the Mary Luckenbach and transferred his cargo of men to the ship. Then he went back for more.

Men were calling for help from both sides of his boat. He worked as fast as he could, but it was very tiring. None of the survivors could help themselves. They had to be pulled out of the water and onto the deck of the boat. The deck was three feet above the water, and it took all Napoli’s strength to pull the men into the boat. Napoli’s muscles were so tired that he could hardly move. His throat was parched, but he kept working.

By the end of the day, Napoli had rescued 70 people all by himself. He and other rescuers saved all but 23 of the 526 people on board the Benevolence. But for John Napoli it was quite a loss. The physical effort used that day crippled him for the rest of his life. He was 65 years old, and it was just too much for him.

John Napoli was rewarded for his courageous work. He was given a medal by the United States Navy, and all his expenses were paid. But the best reward that he received was thankfulness from the men he rescued. Letters, phone calls, flowers, money, visits and most of all, thanksgiving, came from those whose lives he saved.

Although he now is unable to work and is still suffering from the effects of that unforgettable afternoon, John Napoli says, “It was worth it.”

The Lord Jesus Christ has “come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10. God’s Word, the Bible, tells us in Romans 3:23 that “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Each one of us, man, woman, boy and girl are included in that word “all.” There is nothing that any of us can do to work our way to heaven. The Bible also says in Ephesians 2:8 and 9, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast.”

All of the people on the USS Benevolence needed help and they needed it right away. None of them could have been saved without rescuers like John Napoli. Do you think that any of the 503 people who were rescued would have said, “No, I’m not interested” or “Thanks, I can help myself” when the rescue boat got to them?

Yet there are many people today who are saying “No” to God’s offer of love and mercy to them. They are sang, “I’m not interested” when the Lord Jesus Christ, God’s Son, is presented to them as the only way of being saved. They think they can work out their own salvation and get to heaven by their own good deeds.

How foolish! Do not be like those who turn their backs on the Lord Jesus Christ. It is only by believing on what He has done on the cross that we can be saved. There He suffered for our sins, so that we can be saved from the punishment we deserve. All we have to do is believe: “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31. Accept Him as your Saviour today.

For those of us who are saved and know the Lord Jesus Christ as our own Saviour, what should our response be to His love? What was the response of those who were rescued by John Napoli? Did they just forget about thanking him for what he had done? No! Each one of them responded with the thankfulness and appreciation that John Napoli deserved. Do we thank the Lord Jesus each day for all He has done for us? John Napoli ruined his health in rescuing 70 people. The Lord Jesus Christ died for all who will believe in 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-05/31/1981

The Stolen Rose

Seven-year-old Janet lived in an old apartment building in the city. The area around the building was mostly cement, except for the small yard right behind the building. There weren’t any flowers or bushes in the yard, but at least it was a yard where she could play.

One day as she and her friend Elaine were coming home from school, they saw some beautiful roses growing on a trellis on the side of a house.

As the two girls admired and smelled the flowers, Elaine said, “I don’t think the people who live here would care if we took just one rose. They are so beautiful.”

Janet was a Christian, and she didn’t think the owners would care either. The two of them tiptoed up to the trellis, and each girl picked off a rose. Then they hurried away, hoping the owners would not see them.

Janet began to feel very guilty as she walked home. She enjoyed the rose and loved its smell, but she knew she had sinned. She knew that God had seen her steal. Just before she reached home, she put the rose in her jacket pocket so that her mother wouldn’t ask her questions about it.

Yes, God had seen the girls steal. We read in the Bible, “Thou God seest me.” Genesis 16:13.

A few days later when her mother was brushing off Janet’s jacket, she noticed the wilted rose in her pocket. “Where did this come from?” she asked. “We don’t have any red roses like this around here.”

Poor Janet started to cry, and then she told her mother how she had taken the rose. Her mother had to punish her for stealing, but I am sure that Janet learned her lesson. She got down on her knees and confessed to the Lord Jesus what she had done.

The Bible tells us, “Be sure your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23.

Although we all are sinners, God has a message for each of us. The message of the gospel is that God loves us and has provided a way that any sinner who comes to Him may have his, or her, sins washed away. This is possible through the death of the Lord Jesus on the cross. The precious blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, can cleanse us from all sin. Accept Him now as your own personal Saviour. “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” Isaiah 1:18.

ML-05/31/1981

Flesh-Eating Plants

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“I will remember the works of the Lord: surely I will remember Thy wonders....” Psalms 77:11.

We do not normally notice that many animals, birds and insects include plants in their diets. But do you know there are some plants that eat bugs and insects? How remarkable this is, because plants cannot travel from one place to another to capture their food, nor do they have stomachs, eyes or ears to help them.

For instance, consider the Sun-dew plant that grows in certain swamps. Its red, spoon-shaped leaves are covered with hairs. If a fly or bug lands on these hairs, it is trapped by a sticky fluid. Immediately all the other hairs near that spot bend over and hold the insect captive. The plant then absorbs its prey into its system, and the hairs go back in place to wait for another victim.

Then there is the Butterwort plant which has green leaves, rolled at the edges. These are covered with bumps that look like warts. From these bumps a substance like glue comes out to trap any insect touching it. When that happens, the leaf rolls up tightly and holds the bug while it is absorbed.

Pitcher plants are sometimes found in people’s homes as a houseplant. They are pretty plants, with brightly-colored, trumpet-shaped leaves which hold a watery nectar. Insects wanting to get at the nectar, crawl into the trumpet, unaware that they are passing over hairs pointing downward. As they try to return, they find themselves trapped by these hairs. They struggle until tired, and then drop into the “water” which digests them, making them food for the plant.

One insect we would like to see trapped by this plant is the mosquito. But the female can fly right down into the pitcher, lay her eggs in the liquid, and then fly back out safely, just like a helicopter. When the larvae hatch, the new adult mosquitoes escape the same way. There is also a wasp, in some parts of the South, that bites a hole in the bottom of the pitcher, allowing the liquid to drain out. Then it climbs inside, making its nest there without harm. How did the wasp learn this trick? Only the Creator God could give it this knowledge.

These unusual plants (and others like them) certainly have no intelligence to figure out ways of capturing food. They are another example of the wonders of God’s creation. Only God could provide food for these plants and at the same time get rid of a number of insects that are harmful to us.

We are reminded that the devil also has many traps in which he catches those who are not careful. If we know the Lord as our Saviour and walk close to Him, He is able to protect us from evil. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5,6.

ML-05/31/1981

The Pirates and the Bed

Memory Verse: “The Son of man is come to save that which was lost.” Matthew 18:11

It was a nice little white bed like some of you children sleep on every night. However, this bed was a little different, because it had an iron framework over the top. Mosquito netting could be hung from this iron framework. I don’t think many of us have anything like that over our beds. But you see, this bed belonged to a missionary in South China, many years ago.

Along with the bed there was a mattress, too. It was not a nice, soft mattress like we have today. This one was stuffed with bamboo shavings. In South China, bamboo was used for many things.

The missionary had bought the bed and mattress at a department store in the city of Hong Kong. It was carefully wrapped for the long trip back to the missionary’s home, which was 200 miles away. But how would a person get a bed and mattress to their house that far away, when there were no moving or delivery trucks? The missionary didn’t have a truck or a car, either.

He was able to find a small boat, called a “sailing junk,” which was going up the river, delivering goods to the city where he lived. He made all the arrangements to have his bed and mattress delivered to the sailing junk, and then the missionary left for home by land.

When the missionary got home, he told his family about the new bed he had bought. He knew it would take about three weeks for the sailing junk to make the long trip up the river with the new bed.

Three weeks passed, but the bed did not arrive. What was wrong? Had the sailing junk sunk in the river, or had the bed been stolen by pirates?

After about six weeks, the missionary got word that, “Yes, the bed was stolen.” The pirates who had stolen it were now trying to sell it back to him. Would the missionary pay to get his bed back?

“No,” said the missionary, “I will not do business with robbers! I will not pay a cent to those who stole it!”

The missionary thought he would never see his bed again. He and his family often laughed, thinking about the pirate chief comfortably stretched out on the little white bed, enjoying the happy feeling of a mattress, which he probably had never felt before.

Although he was disappointed, the missionary accepted the loss of his new bed. He knew that, like the Apostle Paul in Philippians chapter three, he might suffer "... the loss of all things... that I may win Christ.” So there were no hard feelings about the loss. He told the Lord all about it and left it for Him to work out.

Not too many days later, a friend rushed in all excited and exclaimed, “The bed is coming—I mean, the junk is coming!”

Yes, soldiers had captured the pirates and had recovered the junk with all its goods. Perhaps the pirate chief had been napping in his new bed. His friend didn’t know how it happened—all he knew was that the junk was on its way to the city.

A few days passed and then, sure enough, along came the bed. Chinese coolies carried it to his house. The missionary and his family hurried out to see what the pirate chief had done to the bed. And what did they find? Neither the bed nor the mattress had even been unwrapped! Maybe the pirate chief didn’t know what it was. If so, he certainly never knew the comfort he had missed.

When the missionary asked if there were additional charges for recovering and delivering his bed, he was told there were none. Duty, freight, soldiers’ charges, and delivery charges had all been paid.

The merchant who was with the coolies said, “The junk and all the goods came back because of your bed. It must have been your God taking care of your bed, or else we would never have seen our things again!”

If God watches over things like beds, can’t we trust everything to Him? Best of all, we can trust Him with our soul’s salvation. Can you say like Paul, "... I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day"? 2 Timothy 1:12.

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

ML-06/07/1981

The Telephone

While looking at the telephone today, I was thinking what a wonderful invention it is. It has a bell which rings to tell me when someone wants to speak to me. It has a mouthpiece to speak into and a receiver to listen to the other person talking. Both the mouthpiece and the receiver are part of a small unit that is easy to hold.

However, with most telephones it is impossible to hear the person calling until you pick up the receiver and put it to your ear. It is the same way with God’s Word, the Bible. Before we can hear what God has to say to us, we must first pick it up and read it. There are many homes which have a Bible, but it is not read. God wants to speak to us through His Word, but we must open it and read it.

Just like the telephone has a bell to call us, God also calls us, so that we will listen to Him. He calls us softly at first, perhaps through Father or Mother or through our Sunday school teacher or perhaps through this Sunday school paper. Then, if we do not listen He may call us again, this time a little louder. If we still do not listen, He may have to call us in a way we do not like, perhaps through sickness or an accident. Just like the ringing of the bell gets our attention, God is also trying to get our attention. Don’t ignore Him. He has a wonderful message of peace and love for each person, young or old, who will listen to Him. In Matthew 11:28 we read His message to sinners: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Are you listening to His voice?

It is not only to those who are not saved that God speaks. He also speaks to those who know Him as their own Saviour, just like a father speaks to his children. He tells us through the Bible of His wonderful home in heaven where we can live with Him forever. While we are on earth, He shows us His love in many ways every day. He also tells us how His children should behave.

Right beside the telephone receiver is the mouthpiece. They are very close. You cannot pick up one without the other. This is the way it is when we talk with the Lord Jesus. Not only does He speak to us, but we can speak to Him as well. We can talk to Him in prayer anytime and about anything. Sometimes we just want to thank Him for everything He has done for us; other times we have problems to talk to Him about.

What a wonderful God and Father we have! He has given us His Word to help and guide us. Let’s remember that, like the telephone, we will not hear the message unless we are willing to listen. May each of us who know Him as our own Saviour be able to say, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.” Psalms 119:11.

ML-06/07/1981

A Seven-Ton Baby

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth....” Genesis 1:21.

Baby Blue Whales may be twenty-five feet long and weigh as much as seven tons when they are born. But this doesn’t bother the mother too much, because she herself may be a hundred feet long and weigh up to one hundred and fifty tons! These are the largest living creatures on earth.

Whales of all kinds are found throughout the world’s oceans. Many of them spend their summers in the Arctic, where they are protected from extreme cold by a bluer (fat) coating about two feet thick. Before winter comes, large groups of them migrate thousands of miles south, where the babies (calves) are born. Again, in the springtime, they return north.

Although they look like a huge fish, whales are mammals and breathe air. They can dive 3,000 feet and stay under water as long as an hour. Special valves keep water out of their lungs. While under water, their bodies use oxygen very efficiently, with hearts beating slowly and blood circulation reduced. When they finally come up for air, they exhale through “blow holes” as they reach the surface, causing a spout of water and vapor to rise twenty feet or more into the air.

Some whales have teeth and eat solid food including fish, squid, octopus and even turtles. Others, like the Blue Whale, cannot eat solid food because their throats are too small. Opening their mouths as they swim, seawater passes over hundreds of “baleen plates,” hanging ten or twelve feet down from the upper jaw. These act like a sieve, holding back small plankton (small marine animals) and perhaps a few fish, too. Then, closing its mouth, the water rushes out and the food remains. Its huge tongue, weighing a ton or more, crushes this into “soup” before it is swallowed.

Like porpoises, whales are usually quite sociable and seem to enjoy life. They often leap out of the water, playing tag with one another and circle boats. Sometimes they even stand on their heads and loudly slap the water with their tails. The mothers have the help of “aunties” in raising their young. By use of a remarkable sonar system, whales communicate, even miles apart, by a series of whistles, clicks, grunts, etc. A wounded whale is never deserted. Others stay by it until it recovers or dies.

Whether we look at this the largest of all creatures, or use a microscope to examine the smallest, the handiwork of God is always evident. Each has its purpose in creation and has been made for His pleasure. Yet, except for one, none are aware of God—the One who made them, or of His care over them.

The exception is mankind, given both intelligence and conscience, as well as the Scriptures, all telling him of God not only as Creator but also of responsibility to Him and the need of having his sins forgiven. In His love, God desires to forgive our sins and offers eternal life to all who accept His promise and show “repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.” Acts 20:21. Have you done this?

ML-06/07/1981

Mud Pies

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

Heather came running into the kitchen saying, “I’m home, Moy. When do we eat?”

“Soon, dear. Where have you been?” her mother asked as she turned to face a very dirty little girl.

“In the field playing with Barbie and some other kids,” answered Heather. “She showed us how to make mud pies. She made them on that big, old log, while we got mud from the edge of the creek. It was really fun!”

“Maybe it was,” said Mother, “but you can’t eat at the table until you’re all cleaned up. You’re a mess!”

“I’m pretty clean,” Heather said quickly. “I washed my hands in the creek.” But when Mother rolled up the sleeves of Heather’s sweater, they both could see her arms were still quite dirty. Off to the bathroom went Heather to scrub her hands, just like Mother had asked her to do.

Now, while Heather is scrubbing her hands, let’s stop and think for a minute about what this story tells us. Mud stains on our skin and clothes can be washed off. But sin stains on our hearts are far worse. Sin stains are on the inside, and there is nothing we can do to wash them off. Let’s remember what God says about a sin-stained heart: “Take heed... lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief... hardened through... sin.” Hebrews 3:12,13.

Heather returned to the kitchen, saying, “I think they’re clean now. Anyway, the other kids’ hands were a lot dirtier than mine!”

Mother looked again at Heather’s hands. “That won’t do,” she said. “Look at those dirty fingernails! You can’t eat until they’re clean.”

So Heather went off again to scrub some more. Perhaps you don’t think that your sin-stained heart is as bad as “the other kids'.” Maybe you think their lives and hearts are much worse than yours. But let’s remember, God is looking at you. No amount of washing or good deeds can wash the sins from your heart. If you want to live with God in heaven, then He must say that you are clean.

“I can’t get all the dirt out,” Heather called from the bathroom. Mother went in to help. She added a little extra soap to Heather’s fingernails and a little more to her knuckles. Then with some more scrubbing and after a final rinse, she was clean. Mother gave her clean hands a kiss and said, “Now my little girl is clean. You may come to supper.”

Mother helped Heather get her hands clean, but God has to do it all for you. God does it all Himself without our help, and then He says that we are clean. Won’t you ask Him to do it for you? You can’t get clean by yourself. The Bible says your sins are “red like crimson,” but He can make them “white as snow.” (See Isaiah 1:18.) Then we are ready to live with God’s Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, in His home in heaven. Then we will sing that wonderful song in Revelation chapter 1: “Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood... to Him be glory and dominion Forever and ever.”

ML-06/14/1981

The Lost Letter

We were expecting Grandmother’s weekly letter to arrive. Mother watched through the living-room window as the mailman came up the front walk. He dropped one envelope through the letter slot in the door. Mother saw it fall to the floor, and she walked quickly over to pick it up—but no letter was to be seen! She knew it had to be there, because she had seen it! Looking closely at the floor, she discovered a crack just at the edge of the doorframe. I brought her a flashlight, and shining it down the crack, we could see her letter.

She tried so hard to get it out, but the crack was too narrow for even tweezers to grasp the letter. She finally gave up and waited for Father to come home from work. As soon as he came in, she told him about the letter.

Father worked and worked, trying to get the letter out of the crack. He was able to move it with a thin wire, but he couldn’t grasp it or snag it on a hook. He finally had to make the crack a little wider with a wedge. And what do you think he found? He found not just one letter, but several pieces of mail! Some of them looked like they had been there for a long time.

The whole family watched while Mother and Father opened the mail they had just found. Some pieces were advertisements now almost ten years old! It was surprising to see how prices had gone up in the ten years they had been lying there.

The most interesting piece of mail was for me. It was six years old and had been written by my best friend. It was an invitation to her house for dinner!

I know about a wonderful letter which also has an invitation. Maybe this letter is lying somewhere in your home, and you have never looked at it. This letter I’m talking about is the Bible, and it contains God’s loving invitation to spend eternity with Him in heaven. He tells us how much He loves us and wants us to live with Him forever. He also tells us about the home He has prepared for us. The Bible also tells us that no sin can ever enter His home (Rev. 21:27). It also tells us how Jesus came down to earth and died for sinners. He rose again from the dead, and He is now in heaven waiting for us. He is sending down this invitation for us to believe Him and come to live with Him in heaven.

Have you answered this invitation? This girl did not accept the invitation to dinner, because she did not receive it in time. But can you say that? You have probably heard God’s invitation before, and He is waiting for your answer right now. We do not know how long He will extend this invitation. Tomorrow may be too late. "... Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

ML-06/14/1981

The Bridge

When we travel today we often go over bridges. Some of them are so short that we hardly notice them. Others are high and long, reaching many miles. The longest bridge in the world is near New Orleans, Louisiana. It stretches for 24 miles! I know about a bridge, however, which is not the highest nor the longest. It was not built by anyone, and at one time it was alive. It is a tree that turned into a bridge.

In Arizona there is a very large tree that forms a natural bridge over a deep canyon. Hundreds of years ago this huge tree was growing on the edge of the canyon. The mountain stream that ran through the canyon washed out the soil from around its roots. Then one day during a severe storm, the tree fell. It was so large then when it fell, it reached all the way across the canyon! There it lay for years and years. Some people might think that this great tree was a failure.

Something happened to that tree as it lay there over the years. Gradually the wood was being changed into stone (what we call petrified wood). Now it is a solid, stone bridge which can never rot or break. Many people use it to cross the deep canyon safely.

Many people think that Jesus Christ, as a man, didn’t accomplish very much and that His life was a failure. “He is despised and rejected of men... despised, and we esteemed Him not.” Isaiah 53:3. Men tried to get rid of Him by nailing Him to a cross so "... that His name may be no more remembered.” Jeremiah 11:19. However, the Bible explains that by His death the Lord Jesus Christ became the “strong bridge” to take us from earth to heaven. He is the only “bridge” we can use to cross from this dark, sinful world into the light and holiness of heaven. Have you crossed this bridge by asking Jesus to wash away your sins? If not, do not wait any longer. He is longing for you to let Him into your heart today.

“By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:8.

ML-06/14/1981

The Paper-Making Wasp

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“How unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out.” Romans 11:33.

In the sunny days of early spring, the queen paper-making wasp comes out of hibernation to build a paper nest. She usually hangs it from the eaves of a house or other building. This wasp is equipped with strong jaws, which she uses to chew old wood into a soft pulp. This pulp, mixed with the juices in her mouth, produces a product much like the paper used to make newspaper. With this material, she constructs the nest.

Before making the part of the nest that is lived in, she cements a stem of the same material onto the underside of the eave. Then she starts building the nest, beginning from the underside of the stem. She forms cells in rings that grow wider and wider, until the nest is completed. It looks something like a boy’s top, and may be as much as six inches wide. As each six-sided cell is added, an egg is laid in it and centered in place. Inside each cell she also deposits a little ball of nectar. It is attached next to the egg to pride food for the larva.

“Busy as a bee,” the wasp continues her work day after day, making paper for the cells out of old wood and laying her eggs. After the larva hatches from the egg, it rains attached to the side of the cell by its tail, because it is not ready to fly. By the time the larva finishes the nectar, it is ready for bigger things to eat. The queen and her workers then chew up cabbage worms and other insects and feed this to the larva. Thus large numbers of harmful insects are destroyed by these helpful wasps. In addition to food, water is brought to the larva by the worker wasps. In hot weather the workers also cool the nest by fanning with their wings and sometimes spraying it with water from their mouths.

Soon the larva is big enough to fill the cell. It then spins a cap over the bottom of its cell, forming a cocoon. Later it breaks through this and comes out as a fully-developed wasp.

We may well wonder at the abilities of these little creatures. Who taught them to manufacture “per” and form it into nests? How does the queen know how to cement the eggs and nectar into place? And how does she know when to put aside her nest-building and get food for her little ones? How do the larvae know how to spin their cocoons and cover their cells while going through the final process of becoming mature wasps?

Their ability to do these things did not come from experiments or a gradual development. It came from God, the Creator of all things, who “giveth to all life, and breath.” Yes, “His ways are past finding out.” How happy to know Him not only as the Creator, but what is most important—to know Him as our personal Saviour and Lord.

ML-06/14/1981

"The Valley of Doom!"

Memory Verse: “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat.” Matthew 7:13

The Indians had a name for this valley. They called it “The Valley of Doom!” Sometimes strange and frightening noises were heard from this deep, dark ravine. The Indian tribe that lived in the mountains above it told me strange stories about this valley they all feared. Over the years many people and animals had gone down into the valley, but only a few had ever come out again. Sometimes they would hear cries of terror and cries for help, not long after someone entered the valley. Their cries would echo off the valley walls, putting deep fear into these superstitious Indians.

After hearing the stories the Indns told about “The Valley of Doom,” I decided to go into the valley to learn its secret, if possible. The old Indian chief begged me not to go, but their stories did not frighten me.

I started early one morning on foot. I didn’t take my horse, since I wanted to be able to take cover quickly, if there was trouble. Hang spent many years traveling in the mountains and valleys of the West, I was sure I could handle any difficulty. Cautiously walking down the trail that led into the valley, I looked very carefully for any clue that would explain the mysterious noises and why some people did not return.

The trail was easy to follow as it zigzagged down the valley. About halfway down, it divided. One trail looked rather narrow and rough, but the other trail looked as good as the main trail. I decided to try the better trail first. It was not far to the floor of the valley from where the trail divided. As the trail leveled off, I noticed a stream coming down the far slope that formed a pool before continuing on down the valley. As I stopped to carefully study the scene, I noticed something rather strange. The trail led right to the edge of the stream, but there was no sign of the trail continuing on the other side. I picked up a good-sized log and threw it into the sand at the edge of the stream. In a moment I knew why so many people and animals had never returned. As soon as the log landed on the sand, it began to sink and was soon out of sight. It was quicksand! I had seen quicksand in other parts of the country, but never in these mountains. I shuddered, thinking how close I had come to stepping in that area. It all looked so harmless.

Going back to the fork in the trail, I started down the narrow, rough trail. There were rocks, stumps and fallen trees on it. Hover, with careful walking I soon stood on a bank of the stream above where I had been earlier. Here the trail crossed the stream where there was a rock bottom. On the other side, the trail continued up the far slope to safety, away from the quicksand danger.

Those who chose the easy trail thought it must be the right way. They were not careful and did not see the danger. Once they stepped into the quicksand, they were caught. Their cries of terror echoing from the valley walls frightened the Indians. Those who took that trail died and could not warn others of the danger.

The rough, narrow trail, which a few of them had taken, led to safety. Had those Indians known the truth, they would not have been afraid to go down into “The Valley of Doom.” The wide, well-used trail fooled them into thinking they were going the right way. Sometimes what looks like the right way is really the wrong way.

In the Bible, the Lord Jesus Christ tells us about two paths, in Matthew 7:13 and 14: “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat, because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” As each of us travels along the road of life, we will come to a fork in the road where we will have to make a choice. The choice we make will decide if we spend eternity in heaven or in hell.

In Romans 6:23 we read, “The wages of sin is death....” Also in Romans 3:23 it says, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” If we refuse the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour, we are on the “broad road” that leads to death. To get off the broad road and onto the road that leads to life, we must accept God’s way to be saved. All we need to do is accept the Lord Jesus as our own Saviour.

“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.

ML-06/21/1981

The Two Puppies

Once there were two young Scotty dog puppies that were identical. The more I studied these two dogs, the more I saw they were exactly alike. They were still young enough that they liked to drink milk, but you could tell that their teeth were starting to grow. How did I know? Because they chewed on everything! Boots, mittens, toys—anything small they found was chewed.

Then the day came when their owner decided to sell them. He wanted both of them to go to good homes. However, you cannot always know how somebody is going to treat a dog after they buy it. Even though he thought the two buyers would be good owners for the puppies, it turned out that one buyer was kind, but the other buyer was very unkind.

The puppy who had a kind owner was always with him, trotting by his side or running and playing with him. He had the best dog food to eat, and he was brushed once or twice a week.

The other puppy had a hard time. Some days he got enough to eat, but other times his owner would go away and forget all about him. Sometimes his owner would hit him with a stick or do other things to him just to be mean. Before, the two dogs had been together in the same happy home, but now things were very different.

Two boys or girls may grow up tether in a Christian home. They will each have had the same teaching and love shown to them by their parents. But when it comes time to decide about the Lord Jesus Christ, they sometimes go opposite ways. Then they have different masters, and they are treated differently. Of course, our puppies did not have a choice as to who their master would be. However, boys and girls do have a choice. Every boy and girl has a precious soul which God says is worth more than the whole world! But since we are all sinners, Satan is our master, and we need to be redeemed (bought back). But who could pay such a price? God loves us so much that He could pay that price. In love He sent His only Son to die on Calvary’s cross. The Lord Jesus Christ suffered on the cross for our sins and paid the full price to redeem us. Will you accept Him right now as your own Saviour? Then He will be your Master, and what a wonderful Master He is! He will make you very happy. Some day He will take you to His home in heaven.

However, if you are not saved, you are lost, and Satan is your master. He is a hard master, and some day, if you continue to serve him, you will die in your sins and be lost forever.

Why continue to be a slave of sin and Satan. Come to the Lord Jesus now, and thank Him for dying for you. He is a loving Saviour and Master, and He wants you to be His child.

“Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” Joshua 24:15.

ML-06/21/1981

The Mayfly

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made.” John 1:3.

There are over a hundred varieties of the Mayfly, most of which appear during May or June. With a body little more than half an inch long and three, thread-like tails, it makes a pretty sight flying about with its four wings.

But it doesn’t start out that way. Sticky eggs, dropped in the water, attach themselves to plant stems or a rock. Soon “nymphs” hatch out, which have a dark outer jacket, or skin. This makes them hard to be seen by fish, dragonfly larvae, beetles or other enemies which like to eat them. The nymphs will crawl on the bottom of the lake or stream for about two years, eating food which is filtered from the water. At the end of two years, it changes from gill-breathing to air-breathing. Rising to the surface, its outer skin splits open, and it pulls itself out of it. With a short exposure to the air, its four wings strengthen. It then flies to a nearby object for a few hours of rest before becoming active.

After this change, its life is very short. As an adult Mayfly it does not eat, because it does not have a mouth or a stomach. It spends its time finding a mate. When males and females come together, they engage in an interesting “dance,” rising and falling gracefully through the air. Afterward, the female lays a number of eggs in the water and dies, as does the male.

Their adult life span lasts only a few hours. Because of this, the Latin name “Ephemeda” has been given to them, meaning “living for only a day.”

Frequently, great numbers of nymphs come together to the surface at the same time for their change into Mayflies. As they rise in the air in large numbers, they cause great excitement among the fish, that leap for them, as well as birds, that swoop down, snatching them in mid-air. Even so, many do escape, so the egg-laying and eventual hatching of a new supply of nymphs goes on year after year.

Do you think God cares about these little creatures? He certainly does. They are part of His creation, all in balance with the rest of His creation. We may not always understand His purpose in the things about us, but like Isaiah we can say, “Hast thou not known? Nast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of His understanding.” Isaiah 40:28.

But He does want us, His special creation, to come to Him. We are invited to “Seek... the Lord while He may be found...” (Isa. 55:6); to listen to His invitation—“Come now, and let us reason together... though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool” (Isa. 1:18); and to accept Him as our Lord and Saviour. Our lives, like the Mayfly’s, may be shorter than we expect. How important it is to accept Him today!

ML-06/21/1981

"Operator, I Need Help!"

“When we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.” Romans 5:6

One October evening in a small town in New Jersey, the temperature dropped to 35°F. Nick Cartino felt how cold it was getting, as he went over the day’s records of his trucking business. He remembered that, once again, he had put off finishing the repair work on his furnace. “It’s going to be cold tight,” he thought to himself. “Maybe I’d better build a fire in the old coal heater.” The Cartinos sometimes used wood or coal in their fireplace heater to help heat the house. He called upstairs to his wife, “Hadn’t I better build a fire in the heater?” His wife agreed. She was tucking two-year-old Marjorie into bed.

The coal fire in the hot-air heater quickly warmed the house. After a while, Nick closed the damper of the heater to just a small opening, and he and his wife went to bed.

By one o’clock, all the lights in town were out except at the police station and at the telephone company. Shirley Hanson, the night operator, was there to handle the few calls that came in requiring an operator’s assistance.

About four o’clock in the morning, a light flashed on her switchboard. “May I help you?” Shirley asked. No one answered.

Shirley knew that an open line at this time of night was usually an emergency call. She listened carefully as she asked again, “May I help you?”

“Operator, I need help!” a man’s voice gasped. “Please call a doctor.” He was able to give his home telephone number, and then the line went dead again.

Shirley quickly looked up the number and found that the call had come from the Cartino’s telephone. She called the police and reported the call: “There’s something wrong at the Cartino residence at 1322 Elmer Street. Medical aid has been requested.”

A police cruiser in the area was notified of the emergency. At the same time, the fire department rescue unit was sent to the Cartino home.

When Officer Ralph Simpson took the emergency call from headquarters, he immediately drove to Elmer Street. As he pulled up in front of the house, he was puzzled at seeing no light in the house. He rang the doorbell, but no one answered. He rang again—still no answer. He put his shoulder against the door and tried to force it open. It wouldn’t budge. Just then, the emergency unit arrived with two paramedics. With three men, they were able to force open the front door.

The first whiff of air from inside the house caused the men to choke. “It’s coal gas!” gasped one of the men. “Get the windows open!”

Another man rushed upstairs, hoping he wasn’t too late. (A person can survive for a short time in a room with leaking gas. But after a while they become unconscious and will soon die.) He turned on the light in the bedroom. Nick Cartino was lying on the floor. Beside him dangled the telephone receiver. His wife was still in bed. Little Marjorie was in her own little bed. Were they too late?

The Cartinos had been overcome with gas from a leaking heater. They knew of the danger that could be caused by coal gas, but they were not careful in adjusting the damper. They did not think that something like this could happen to them.

There are many people today who are going on, day by day, in a very dangerous condition. They are lost sinners on their way to hell, and they are ignoring the danger. The danger of coal gas is that it makes you unconscious before it kills you. Satan has “blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ... should shine unto them.” 2 Corinthians 4:4. Because God loves you so much, He has provided an escape for you now. The Lord Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, died on the cross so that you may be saved. But you must accept His offer of love and mercy to you now. Don’t put it off. Waiting is dangerous!

Was it too late for the Cartinos? The paramedic’s first concern was for Marjorie, who lay so still in her bed. He felt for a pulse in her wrist. It was there; she was still alive! He called to the two others coming up the stairs, “Hurry! Get this child outside fast!” Then he turned to check the parents. Both of them were still breathing. The men rushed them out into the fresh air! They were given oxygen and rushed to the hospital for further treatment. The family soon recovered and could go back home. Rescue had come just in time!

The rescue of the Cartino family was big news in the small town. The police, paramedics and telephone operator were all honored for their quick, life-saving work. However, after a few years the story was forgotten except by the people most concerned. They never forgot.

For those of us who know the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour, do we ever forget what He has done for us? It is sad to say that sometimes we act like we’ve forgotten. When was the last time you thanked Him for saving you? When did you last praise Him for all that He has done for you? Does your life show others what a wonderful Saviour you have? These are important questions to think about, because we forget so quickly. That is why He has asked us to “remember Him” until He comes for us. By remembering the Lord each week, we are reminded of what He has done for us.

“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-06/28/1981

"Isn't There Any God Today?"

Anna was happy to hear the news—her Uncle Tom was coming to her house for a visit. He had a job to do in the town where Anna and her parents lived. She was too young to remember the last time he had visited them. She just knew that uncles were lots of fun.

Uncle Tom and Anna soon became good friends. He always had interesting things to tell her. He liked to tell her stories, especially Bible stories. Anna liked to hear these stories, because she had never read the Bible. She didn’t know very much about the Lord Jesus Christ and how He loves boys and girls.

Things were different when Uncle Tom was there. Uncle Tom loved the Lord Jesus and he wasn’t ashamed to show that he was saved. “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. When he ate with the family, he bowed his head and gave thanks for the food. After this happened at several meals, he was asked by Anna’s daddy to ask a blessing on the meal. Uncle Tom was happy to do this. He would thank the Lord Jesus for the food and pray for the rest of the family, too.

The two weeks passed so quickly, and Uncle Tom returned home. The morning after he left, the family sat down to breakfast. Anna’s daddy started to eat without first thanking God for the food. Anna looked at him and asked, “Isn’t there any God today, Daddy?”

This question made Anna’s pants feel guilty. It made them realize that they did not love God and were leaving Him out of their lives. They knew they needed to know the Lord Jesus as their Saviour, just like Uncle Tom did. They began reading their Bible. Very shortly after this, they both accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their Saviour. They explained the way to be saved to Anna, too, and she was soon saved. After that, Anna’s daddy always gave thanks for their food at the table, just like Uncle Tom had done.

Ask yourself the question that Anna asked— “Is there no God today?” Have you thanked Him today for everything He has done for you? If not, then you should ask yourself if you really do love Him. Perhaps you are also leaving God out of your life. Are you traveling through life unsaved and unforgiven? You will have to meet God some day, and you won’t be ready. The Lord Jesus Christ has died on the cross to save you. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

ML-06/28/1981

Let's Talk About Spiders: Part 1

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings’ paces.” Proverbs 30:28.

While most of us don’t want anything to do with spiders, they are an interesting example of how God “hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise” (1 Cor. 1:27), because no one fully understands the way they perform.

Did you ever watch one spinning its web? “My,” you think, “where does all that silk thread come from?” Actually, it comes from glands near its back. The strong elastic material is forced through nozzle-like tips as the spider moves. Most spiders have several spinnerets, each with a different opening, so they can produce the kind of thread need. For instance, when it needs one for lifting itself up and down, it uses a spinneret that makes a coarse, strong thread. When making its web, an entirely different type of thread is required, so it uses other spinnerets. It also produces cottony material for holding and hiding its eggs. All spiders can make three or four different kinds of thread, and some can make as many as seven kinds, all finer than a human hair!

How did the spider ever learn to use the right spinneret at the right time? How did it learn to use two of them working at the same time when it wants an extra-strong thread? When did it get enough courage to trust itself to drop into space with just a thread holding it and know it could crawl back up it again? How can it produce a sticky thread that it can travel over, yet that will trap everything else?

Many times the webs are spun in the dark, where the spider cannot see what it is doing, but its beautifully-shaped webs are perfectly formed.

The spider, lurking at one side of its web, waits for vibrations to tell it that something is caught. If the vibrations are very light, it ignores them. But a medium-sized vibration means food, so it quickly travels across the web to kill and eat the victim. However, if the shaking is great, it means something too big to handle is out there, and it will hurry to cut it loose before it ruins the web. How does the spider know how to interpret these signals?

The answer to all these questions is: No spider ever “learned” how to make a web or where to place it. When the Lord created them, He gave them their remarkable skills. These are often referred to as instincts, which enable them to take care of these things without thinking.

If the Lord has such interest and care over these little creatures, which are here today and gone tomorrow, how much more is He concerned about every boy and girl to whom He has given an everlasting soul? He tells us: “I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn thee.” Jeremiah 31:3. This wonderful love caused Him to go to Calvary’s cross, to die “the Just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God.” 1 Peter 3:18. Have you accepted that work in faith and made Him your Saviour?

ML-06/28/1981

Grandma's Birthday

Memory Verse: Jesus ... said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.” Mark 10:14

Dear Grandma,

Happy Birthday. I sure hope you have a nice birthday. Last week sometime I was galloping Ladybird and I had glasses on and my hand slipped and I fell off and her foot hit me un the head, and it was sore for a few days. But she came back to me and I think she was sorry. And Grandma not too long ago one night before mommy came in to tell me goodnight I was thinking about the Lord Jesus and I knew that I was a real sinner I accepted the Lord Jesus as my Saviour and I was so happy that I ran downstairs to tell daddy and mommy and I was so happy that night I wanted to tell everybody. The next day I almost did. And I am so glad He died for you as well as me. There could not be anything more wonderful.

Happy Birthday

Very much love and kisses

Susan

The letter on the front page, which is a birthday letter from Susan to her Grandma, made her Grandma and Grandpa very happy. Do you know why it made them happy? Was it because Susan did not get badly hurt when she fell off her horse Ladybird? Was it because Susan had included, “Very much love and kisses,” for her Grandma? Yes, both answers are right, but there is something else in the letter that made them so happy.

What really made both Grandma and Grandpa happy was Susan’s telling them she had accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her Saviour. They had both been praying for her and their other grandchildren, that each one might be saved. To get such a clear confession from one of them was the best birthday present that Grandma could receive.

How many of you boys and girls have parents or grandparents or other relatives who are praying for you? Have you made them happy by telling them that you have accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour? If you haven’t, why not tell them right away. If they do not live close to you, you could write them a letter, just like Susan did. It will make not only them happy, but we know from the Bible that “who-so trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.” Proverbs 16:20. If you have not accepted Him as your own Saviour, why not do it right now, and then tell someone. “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.

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” 3 John 4.

ML-07/05/1981

"Oh, Jesus, Help Me!"

Most everyone has seen tigers, if they have ever visited a zoo. But how many of you have ever been face to face with a tiger? In China, there are many tigers living in the mountains. They live in the caves and ravines, which make good hiding places.

The hills around the cities of China are covered with graves. This is where the people who have died in the city are buried. Long grass grows around the graves and on the hills. Men and women often go up to cut it. The cut grass is left on the ground to dry. Then it is tied in bundles. They carry the bundles down into the city and sell them either as food for cows or as fuel for cooking and heating. Wood is very scarce and expensive. Since the people are very poor, these bundles of dried grass are mainly used for fuel. Sometimes you can see six or eight people coming down from the hills, each carrying two great bundles of dried grass. The bundles are fastened at each end of a pole which is carried across their shoulders. As they walk toward you, all you can see is a big hat and two big bundles of grass.

One day many years ago, a poor woman went up to the hills to cut grass. She had her baby tied on her back and her other little girl was walking beside her. She carried a sharp sickle for cutting the grass. Just as she reached the top of the hill, she heard a loud roar! Oh, how it frightened her and the children. The next moment, a mother tiger sprang at her! Since the tiger had two young cubs with her, she probably thought the woman was going to harm them. The woman quickly slashed at the tiger with her sharp sickle, trying to protect herself and her children.

This poor Chinese mother had never been to a gospel meeting or a Sunday school. She had never seen a Bible, nor could she read. While walking down the street of the village a few days earlier, she had heard the name “Jesus.” A missionary was talking to some other women about this man, Jesus. She heard him say, “Jesus is able to help you if you are in trouble.”

As the tiger tore her arm and shoulder with its sharp claws, she remembered this wonderful story. Desperately slashing at the tiger with her sickle, she cried out, “Oh, Jesus, help me!”

Do you think the Lord Jesus heard her cry? Yes, He did! His ears always hear our cry, and His prose is, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.” Psalms 50:15.

We sometimes make promises and then break them. Perhaps we forget, or perhaps we find we cannot do what we promised. But the Lord Jesus is not like that. We read in Romans 4:21, "... what He had promised, He was able also to perform.” We may be sure of that promise, too, just as this woman learned.

She kept fighting the tiger with her sickle and crying, “Oh, Jesus, help me!” In just a few seconds, her answer came. The tiger, which so easily could have killed her and the children, turned and ran away.

The woman had many gashes and wounds on her arm and shoulder, but her children were safe. They struggled back to the village. Then her friends carried her to a missionary hospital where she was cared for until she recovered.

Best of all, in the hospital she learned more about Jesus who had saved her and the children from a horrible death. She also learned that He wanted to save her from eternal death. She was told how He loved her and that He had died for her sins on the cross. It wasn’t long before she accepted Him as her own Saviour. How glad this poor Chinese woman was to find such a wonderful Saviour, who had done so much for her.

“Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; Who healeth all thy diseases.” Psalms 103:3.

ML-07/05/1981

The Lost Girl

A woman in China who was a Christian once went to visit a couple who had no children of their own. She found them happy because they had recently bought a four-year-old girl to raise as their own. They told the woman that there was one thing about the girl that puzzled them.

Before she would eat food she always folded her hands, closed her eyes and said something.

The visitor knew at once that the little girl must have had a Christian upbringing. She then remembered that she had seen an advertisement about a lost girl in a Christian paper. The parents lived in a distant town.

She was finally able to find out where the little girl came from and that she was the missing child. She had been stolen and sold.

When the foster parents heard the facts, they returned the girl to her parents. What a happy time for both the little girl and her parents when they were together again.

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6.

ML-07/05/1981

About Spiders: Part 2

“I will speak of the glorious honor of Thy majesty, and of Thy wondrous works.” Psalms 145:5.

Last week we reviewed some interesting things about spiders. However, there wasn’t enough space to tell about one called the Triangle Spider, which makes a three-sided web shaped like a triangle with a tail hanging down from the bottom. The spider holds tightly to this tail to keep the web open. The moment an insect touches the triangle, it lets go of the tail, and the web, springing like a trap, captures the victim.

Then there is the Bola which catches its dinners by fishing. Instead of spinning a web, it produces one long thread with a sticky ball on the end. It sits on a branch and drops this line down, swinging it back and forth until an insect flies into the ball. Then it pulls up the thread, just like reeling in a fishing line, and enjoys its meal.

Most female spiders have a bad habit of eating their partners, but the males have ways of guarding against this. If a male wishes to make friends with a female, he vibrates the edge of the web with one of his feet. The female is immediately alerted. If she is hungry, she crosses the web, and that’s a signal for the male to make a quick exit. But if the female remains quiet, he senses she has already eaten and he goes to her, sometimes bringing a little present. However, he never stays long or he will have to pay for his visit with his life. This is why one species is known as the Black Widow, because she almost always kills and devours her mate.

On mornings after a heavy dew or frost, spider webs easily catch our attention, because their lovely shapes stand out so plainly. At times they look like many white handkerchiefs spread on the ground.

Flying spiders point their abdomens toward the sky and spin webs that act like parachutes. When the wind catches one of these, the spider holds on tightly, and off it goes on a real adventure. Sometimes they are lifted thousands of feet in the air and are carried over oceans and mountains to land elsewhere.

One more attracts our attention. This is the Crab Spider, which crawls into petals of flowers and waits for an insect to come. Then it lassoes its prey like a cowboy, throwing silk threads over its wings and legs to make it secure.

The many spiders all over the world and their amazing ways remind us of the wonders of God’s creation. They show us that the little things, as well as the big things of life, are all under His watchful care. In Hebrews 4:13 we read: “Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.”

It is well for us to remember that we, too, are under His care, and that “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.” Proverbs 15:3. How happy it is to know Him as our Saviour and to give all our cares to Him.

ML-07/05/1981

Saved From Bandits

Memory Verse: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” Proverbs 18:10

Some years ago, two Chinese Christians, Mo and Li, were working together for the Lord in the Kwang Tung Province of China. Day by day, they traveled on foot, preaching the gospel—the good news of salvation. Sometimes they preached in villages and sometimes at little, lonely, hillside houses. Every day they tried to speak to someone about the Lord Jesus Christ. They had tracts which they handed out and little copies of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John which they sold to anyone who could buy one.

As the days passed, the two men found themselves out in the country. There were fewer houses and villages. The hills were steeper, and the scenery became more rugged and beautiful.

At last there were no more houses, and finally the path they were following disappeared completely. Mo and Li had to scramble down the side of a hill, take off their sandals, roll up their trousers, and wade down the shallow riverbed.

They had waded only a short distance when they saw a man standing on a sandbar, watching them. They quickly waded to the other side of the river to talk to the man. They gave him some tracts and asked him if he would like to hear about Jesus.

The man did not answer, but just looked straight ahead. Then Li noticed that Mo’s knees were knocking together. Mo, who was standing beside the man, had seen the big gun the man had partly hidden in his clothing. As the man slowly pulled out the gun, both Li and Mo quickly realized he was a bandit! Li prayed a silent prayer, asking God to protect them and help them. Li knew that the bandits in this part of China were cruel and would do anything for money.

The bandit began to question the Christians. Who were they? What were they doing here? Were they police or soldiers? The two men answered each question truthfully. While explaining that they were Christians, they also told the bandit that the Lord Jesus loved him.

As the three men talked, it was soon evident that there were other bandits in the woods along the river. One by one they slowly came out to the sandbar. It wasn’t long before Li and Mo were surrounded by bandits! They searched through the canvas bags the two Christians carried. They were looking for only one thing—money.

While they were searching Mo and Li, one of the bandits found a small card. He handed it to the bandit chief. A name was printed in large Chinese letters in the center of the card, and underneath was the title of the person. On the back of the card, the owner had written a sentence, and then signed it.

The chief took the card and read it carefully. The others all crowded around to read it, too. They read it several times, reading first one side and then the other. Then the bandits had a muttered conversation among themselves. Finally, the chief asked, “How did you get this?”

“A friend of mine gave it to me,” answered Mo. “He told me I could get help and protection from anybody in this area just by showing them this card. Will you help us get to the next village?”

“No!” snapped the chief. “We’re going the other way. Here, take your things and go.”

With that, the bandits left the two Christians and disappeared into the woods. Both Mo and Li thanked the Lord for answering their prayer by protecting them. They continued on and found their way to the next village without any other problems.

Now, what did the card say that changed the minds of the bandits? Before I tell you, can you answer this question: How dangerous is the road you are traveling? I don’t mean the street you live on or the one you take to school. The Bible tells about two roads; one is a broad road that leads to death, and the other is a narrow road that leads to life (Matt. 7:13,14). Each of us would like to travel the road that leads to life. The entrance to that road is the Lord Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for our sins. If we believe that we are helpless sinners and accept the mercy that is offered to us by God, then we are saved. It is the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ that saves us. He loves us so much that He died on the cross, shedding His blood so that we can go free. Mo and Li had the card with instructions to be set free by the bandits. It is only the Lord Jesus Christ who can set us free from the power of Satan.

What did the card say that set Mo and Li free? Mo had been in the capital city of the province two weeks earlier. While there, he had given some tracts and books to a government official. This official had asked questions about Jesus and had talked to Mo for a long time. Hearing that Mo planned to go into the country, he took out his official business card which had his name and title on it. He turned it over and wrote on the back, “If this man meets either soldiers or baits who wish to harm him, this card will protect him.” Then he signed his name.

The government official was the commander of all the soldiers in the area. They had to obey their commander’s orders on the card. But what about the bandits? Why did they obey these orders? The bandit that Mo and Li had met on the sandbar was the chief of the bandits. He was also the commander’s brother: After he read the instructions and name on the card, he allowed Mo and Li to go free.

Are you free? The Bible gives us God’s instruction on how we can be set free. “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” John 8:36. When you accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour, you will be free from Satan’s power. Then you, too, will experience God’s daily care for you, just as Mo and Li could ask the Lord for help and be freed in such an amazing way. “The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them.” Psalms 34:7.

ML-07/12/1981

A Lion in the House

Hannah lived on a mission compound in West Africa with some other missionaries. She enjoyed visiting women and children in the surrounding villages, telling them about the love of God that sent the Lord Jesus Christ down from heaven to die for sinners. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16. These women were glad for Hannah’s visits, because she was kind and often helped them when they needed something. Since she was their friend, they listened to the words she read from the Bible. Some gave up their heathen religion and accepted the Lord Jesus as their own Saviour.

Wild animals often prowled around in the forests near Hannah’s house. Although she lived all alone in a small house, she trusted the Lord to protect her, and He did. “Whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe.” Proverbs 29:25.

One night, she thought she heard an animal trying to get into the cattle shelter which was close to her house. She lighted a lantern and set it outside to frighten the animal away. Going back into the house, she suddenly stopped. There was a huge lion looking in the back window at her! She thought it was going to jump right through the window into the room! Hannah quickly ran out the front door. Slamming it shut, she heard the crash of glass as the lion jumped through the window! She screamed for help! The men on the compound came running with their rifles. They slowly opened the door to Hannah’s house with their rifles ready. Where was the lion? They carefully searched each room, but they found no trace of it except for the shattered window pane and blood. It must have gone out the same way it came in when it found nothing to eat.

Hannah was saved from danger by running away from the lion as soon as she saw it. She could have tried to fight it, but she knew the lion was too strong for her. She needed help.

Satan is a very strong enemy, too. None of us can fight him alone. But the Lord Jesus Christ has defeated Satan. He has already won the victory for us. We can run to Him for salvation and protection. Have you run to Him for protection? He wants to save you today. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may dour.” 1 Peter 5:8.

ML-07/12/1981

More About Spiders: Part 3

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made.” John 1:3.

With about 40,000 species of spiders in the world, there is a wealth of interesting things to consider, but we will limit ourselves to just a few more.

Not all spiders spin webs. For instance, the one known as the Dune Wolf makes its home in a sand tunnel and comes out to catch its food on the ground. Then there is the Trap-Door Spider that builds a tunnel in the ground, cementing the walls with glue and lining them with silk to make a cozy home. Over the top, it makes a hinged door that opens and shuts as it comes and goes.

One of the most amazing is the Water Spider. It can walk or run on water and makes its home beneath the surface in a silken nest. Working from a twig or stem above the water, it first forms a bell-shaped, air-tight balloon from its silk. It takes this down into the water and anchors it solidly. The spider keeps a large air bubble trapped in the top of the balloon so that it can breathe while it catches underwater insects.

Another species, called the Fishing Spider, also gets its food from the water, but this one lives out in the open air. Although unable to swim, it, too, can walk on the water, because it has hairy patches on its legs that hold air and make it buoyant. It chases insects on the surface, and if it sees something interesting below, will dive down for it.

You might wonder how a spider could dive under water and not drown. The secret is that it doesn’t breathe through nostrils as we do, but takes in air through the lower part of its abdomen. When ready to dive, it traps a bubble of air under its hairy body, and with this it can breathe for a long time.

We would also expect the air bubble to cause the spider to float to the surface. It would, except that it dives directly to some solid object under the water and holds itself down with its legs. There it sits while waiting for a victim to swim by. It has been observed catching minnows, grabbing and piercing them with poison before taking them to the shore to eat.

In spite of their unpleasant appearance, spiders are very beneficial to mankind, disposing of many flies, mosquitoes and other harmful insects. They all tell of God’s wonderful plan in creation and the way He has provided, from the very beginning, for the individual needs of each one of them. These patterns have not changed since the day of their creation.

But more important than all this is what He says of you and me: “For I have created him for My glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.” Isaiah 43:7. Now, we cannot be to His glory unless we are His children through faith in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Are you one who has accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour and are you now giving glory to Him, as He desires?

ML-07/12/1981

Lost in the Woods

Memory Verse: “We believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved.”

Susie, Amy, Ann and Peter, each carrying a pail of wild blueberries, moved slowly through the woods. They talked about lots of things as they picked from the little bushes that were loaded with berries. It was a beautiful, warm, summer afternoon, just perfect for being outside.

After several hours of picking, nine-year-old Susie, who was the oldest, suggested they start for home. The shadows were growing long as they started back towards the farm where they lived. They walked for some time, but still didn’t come to the dirt road they wanted to find. After wandering around for almost an hour, Susie said to the others, “Now, don’t cry, but I think we’re lost!”

Discussing what they should do next, Amy suggested that they ask the Lord Jesus to help them. The three sisters thought that was a good idea, but their cousin Peter said he didn’t want to pray. The three girls knelt down on the ground and each one asked the Lord Jesus to help them. They were used to talking to the Lord Jesus, because they knew Him as their Saviour. Peter, however, was not saved and did not love the Lord Jesus. He just walked on while the girls prayed. Catching up to Peter, Amy told him that if he didn’t ask the Lord for help, he would probably be lost in the woods all night! Peter just laughed, saying that since they were all together, how could he be the only one lost in the woods all night?

The four of them walked a little farther when suddenly little Ann wailed, “I left my bucket back there!” She had not picked it up again after they had knelt down to pray. It was just a short way back, but Susie didn’t want Ann to go back alone. She suggested they all go back together, but Peter refused. He didn’t want to go back and decided to himself that he’d find his own way out.

The three girls left Peter and soon found Ann’s pail of berries. But when they got back to where they had left Peter, he was nowhere to be found. As they wandered around looking and calling for Peter, they discovered a cow walking in the woods.

“Hey, that’s one of our cows!” exclaimed Susie. “We can follow it!”

The cow was the answer to their prayers. After following its wandering path for quite awhile, the cow eventually guided them out of the woods. Then it was easy to find their way home.

Peter, however, was still lost. He wanted to do things his own way, and so he was left in the woods all alone.

By the time the girls got home and told their parents that Peter was lost, it was nearly dark. Right away they began to search for him, but soon it was too dark, and then it began to rain. Lightening flashed and thunder crashed; it rained heavily all through the night.

Early the following morning, they finally found Peter—soaked, frightened and lonely. Picking him up, they wrapped him in a blanket and carried him back home.

I am sure that Peter, who is now an old man, will never forget that night alone in the woods. But Peter didn’t learn from his mistake. He still wants to find his own way to heaven, just like he wanted to find his own way out of the woods—without anyone’s help. Don’t be stubborn like Peter. The Lord Jesus Christ is looking for anyone who is wandering away from Him. He loves them and wants to pick them up in His strong arms and carry them home to His Father’s home in heaven. But no sin can enter into heaven, so the Lord Jesus had to die on the cross. He took your place there willingly and was punished for your sins. Now He can wash your sins away in His precious blood so that you are ready for heaven. Won’t you let Him wash away your sins and lift you onto His shoulders right now? He wants to carry you safely home to heaven. “The Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10.

ML-07/19/1981

The Master's Little Lady

Mr. Foster was a rich farmer who lived in a big house on his farm. He had only been able to go to school for two years. He could not read, and the only thing he could write was his name. But he had worked hard over the years, making the farm and land into the best in the county. He was no longer doing the farm work himself, because he had turned this over to his son.

Several times during the years that Mr. Foster was farming, Christian friends had talked to him about the Lord Jesus. He had been told of God’s love for him, but he refused to believe it. In spite of all the good things God had given him, he didn’t love God or even thank Him for these things. But God loved Mr. Foster just the same and did not forget him.

One summer when Mr. Foster was over 70 years old, a niece and her little daughter came to stay with him. The little girl’s name was Martha; she was seven years old. She was excited about the big house with its big piano and the big grandfather clock. But best of all, there was a real grandfather living there. It wasn’t long before Martha had adopted Mr. Foster as her very own grandfather. He called her, “The Master’s Little Lady.”

One morning when everybody was very busy, Mr. Foster found Martha in the dining room, trying to reach something at the back of a shelf.

“What are you doing, Martha?” he asked.

“I’m trying to get that big book down. I think it’s a big Bible, and I want to look at it,” she answered.

Mr. Foster helped her get the big, old family Bible down from the shelf. Then he sat down in a chair nearby while Martha looked through the old Bible.

“Do you want to hear me read?” she asked him. “I learned how to read in school.”

“You can read!” he exclaimed. “That’s something I never learned to do. Sure, you can read to me.”

Mr. Foster sat closer and put his hand behind his ear so he could hear every word. Martha read very slowly and clearly from the first chapter of John. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God.” She read on down to verse 11 and 12: “He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” Slowly Mr. Foster got up from his chair and said, “That’s enough for today, Martha.” Martha thought she saw him wipe away tears from his eyes, and she wondered what was wrong.

The following day, Mr. Foster came to Martha and asked her if she would read to him again. They got the Bible down and turned to where Martha had been reading the day before. It wasn’t long before Martha’s Grandfather Foster was smiling, with tears streaming down his cheeks at the same time. As he heard the story of God’s love read to him by seven-year-old Martha, his heart and mind were opened. He saw that he was a poor sinner before God and needed to be saved. He confessed that he had refused God’s love many times over the years, and now he wanted to be saved. He yielded to God’s love, and accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his own Saviour.

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

ML-07/19/1981

Trees Came First

“And the earth brought forth grass, and herb... and the tree yielding fruit.... And the evening and the morning were the third day.” Genesis 1:12,13.

It was not just by coincidence that God created vegetation and trees before He created the other living things. This way, birds, animals and fish created on the fifth day, and man on the sixth, had food waiting for them. This food came from the vegetation created on the third day. There is an important thing about trees. In God’s newly-made atmosphere, a continuous supply of oxygen was needed. This, of course, was for the “animal kingdom” which cannot live without oxygen. In one of the wonders of God’s creation, He designed trees and all other green vegetation to produce great quantities of oxygen, which is given off through the leaves. Air-breathing creatures (including man) help the trees in return by giving off carbon dioxide. This carbon dioxide is used by the trees in the process of making oxygen and food for our use. This whole process is called photosynthesis.

Trees also cycle large amounts of water. A tree may have up to fifty percent of its total volume made up of water. The growth of one ton of wood requires about 1,000 tons of water. This comes mainly through the roots, with a complicated and wonderful tube system carrying water and minerals up to every branch, leaf and needle. How amazing that such a great volume of water can rise as much as 200 feet and distribute itself in correct amounts to each part of the tree. Much of this water then evaporates into the air.

When the water reaches the leaves, it is utilized in the process of photosynthesis where, combined with carbon dioxide and using sunlight energy, food (glucose) is produced. Oxygen is also produced, which is released into the atmosphere.

The inner wood of the tree trunk is called heartwood. It gives the main strength to the tree. Next to the heartwood is the sapwood, which carries water from roots to branches and leaves. Surrounding this is the thin cambian layer, the most active part of the trunk, producing new sapwood and bark. The next layer is the inner bark, which carries the glucose produced in the leaves down to the cambian layer and some down to the roots. The bark, of course, is the only visible part of the whole trunk structure.

I think you will agree that trees are a most important part of creation. Not only do their beautiful structures aid in supplying the breath of life, but they also furnish food, fuel, lumber and shade, bides adding many nutrients to the soil.

There is a tree that is far more important than the trees we see. It is called the “tree of life.” See Genesis 2:9 and Revelation 22:2. The tree of life represents the Lord Jesus Christ. God’s created trees are essential for life to exist on earth, but the Lord Jesus Christ is essential for eternal life. Have you taken Him as your Saviour? “This is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent.” John 17:3.

ML-07/19/1981

Sally's Friends

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

It was a warm summer afternoon, the kind that makes you wish there was something really exciting to do. Annie and Lynn lived on a farm where there were lots of things to do. Mother always suggested they pull weeds in the big garden by the barn or make sure the little calves had plenty of water or watch their little sister and brother while she worked in the house. They didn’t like these suggestions. They wanted to do something really fun—like have an adventure!

As they sat on the front porch watching the little kittens play in the grass nearby, Annie said, “I know! We can pretend that we are pioneers, and the Indians are after us!” That was one of the girls’ favorite games.

“Yes,” agreed Lynn, “but we always play that game.”

“Well....” Annie was thinking. Her imagination did get her into trouble now and then, but this time she had a really good idea. “Let’s play it the real way,” she exclaimed.

Annie jumped up and ran to the barn, with Lynn close behind her. It’s no fun to just pretend that you have a horse to pull the covered wagon. Annie had a better idea.

“Lynn, go get the wagon over there, and bring it here,” she directed. She waited as Lynn came back with the old, red wagon rumbling along behind her.

“What are we gonna do, Annie?” Lynn asked as she followed Annie out to the pasture.

Out in the pasture was their dearest pet—Sally, the mother goat. She was munching on the fresh, green grass. Sally seemed glad to see the girls and baaaaaed her greeting.

“Oh!” exclaimed Lynn, “Sally can be our horse!”

“That’s right,” Annie agreed. “This will be lots better than just pretending that we have a real horse. And besides, if we take Sally up the gravel road to the top of the hill, we can have a faster ride, and we won’t be so heavy for her.”

“That’s a good idea,” Lynn agreed. So the girls tied Sally to the old, red wagon.

Soon they were on their way up the hill. The girls walked beside Sally, trying to coax her along. She didn’t want to go, but when Annie and Lynn held bunches of grass in front of her, she eagerly followed them.

At the top of the hill, they turned Sally and the wagon around. How fun this would be—just like the pioneer girls used to do—but they had to hurry, because soon the Indians would be after them!

Sally was in a hurry, too. She wanted to get back home. She started off down the hill. Quickly, Annie and Lynn hopped into the wagon, and down the hill they went.

Poor Sally! What was that awful noise that was following her? The faster she went, the more the old, red wagon rumbled and squeaked as it hit rocks and holes in the road. Sally was scared! Faster and faster she ran. They were going so fast down the hill that Annie and Lynn were getting scared, too. Suddenly, they hit a big bump! The wagon dumped over, leaving the girls sprawled out in the road while Sally ran faster and faster with the wagon tumbling over and over behind her. Sally was running so fast that when the girls finally picked themselves up, they could hardly catch up with her. When they finally did catch her, they untied the wagon and let her go out to the pasture again.

That night, Papa wondered why Sally didn’t give as much milk. He thought she seemed a little nervous. When he found out what his girls had done, he was not at all happy. Annie and Lynn felt badly, too, because they really did love Sally. They were sorry they had upset her.

Annie and Lynn loved Sally very much. But there was Someone who loved them even more than they loved Sally. This Someone was the Lord Jesus Christ.

Do you love Him? He loves you just as much as He loves Annie and Lynn. The two girls had confessed Him as their Saviour. Have you? You have probably heard the story of the love of God many times. He loves us so much that He sent His only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, into this world. He experienced every unkind thought and mean act that man could think of. But far worse than that, He was punished on the cross by God for our sins. It was there that He showed us how much He loves us. He willingly did everything that was required for you to be saved. All you have to do is realize your need of a Saviour and accept Him into your heart.

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

ML-07/26/1981

"Be Ye Not … as the Mule"

The title of this story is part of a verse from the Bible which compares us to a mule. When we think of a mule, we usually think of something being stubborn. Mules and stubbornness seem to go together. But boys and girls and men and women can be stubborn, too. Nobody likes to be called stubborn. The Bible says that “stubbornness is as iniquity (sin)" in 1 Samuel 15:23. But what is stubbornness? It is being unreasonable and not willing to submit. It is the same as not being willing to change your mind or what you are doing, even when everyone says you should change. God says you are a sinner, and if you don’t believe Him, you are being stubborn. Won’t you listen to what God says and believe it? If you don’t, your stubbornness will lead you all the way to hell, where there will never be an escape. Perhaps a story about Donny and his two mules will help explain about listening and being stubborn.

Donny lived on a farm many years ago, before there were any cars or trucks. The only way that supplies could be carried from the stores out to the farm was on a wagon. One day, Donny drove his two mules to town. He stopped at a store and loaded his wagon full of heavy supplies. Now came the hard part, to see if his two stubborn mules would pull the heavy wagon.

“Giddap,” ordered Donny. With lots of scolding and coaxing by Donny, the mules slowly started down the road.

“Whoa,” called a man who was standing along the side of the road. The mules came to a sudden stop.

“Giddap,” ordered Donny again.

But no sooner had he coaxed them into starting again than the man called, “Whoa,” and the mules came to a dead stop again. The man just laughed at the trouble he was causing, then walked away.

Donny had to coax and prod his mules some more to get them moving. They finally made it all the way home.

Do you think the mules knew the man’s voice was not Donny’s voice? I’m sure they did. But they wanted to obey that voice, so that is just what they did.

Boys and girls, there are two voices calling you today. The first is the voice of God, who is your Maker. His command is, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” Joshua 24:15.

The second voice is Satan’s which says, “You’ll be all right. Don’t worry about it right now. There is lots of time to get ready before you have to meet God.”

If you’re listening to the second voice, you’re just like Donny’s mules. Won’t you listen to the true voice of God? Don’t be stubborn; listen to God who is the only One that can help you.

“How do I prepare?” you may be thinking. You only need to believe, because all the work has been done. The Lord Jesus Christ did it all for you on the cross. He loves you so much He took the punishment for your sins. Now the way has been opened for you to go to heaven. Won’t you listen to His voice and accept Him as your Saviour right now?

“Now is the accepted time... now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

ML-07/26/1981

A Summer Thunderstorm

“He causeth the vapours to ascend... He maketh lightnings for the rain; He bringeth the wind out of His treasuries.” Psalms 135:7.

The Psalmist was always impressed with the display of the elements, referring to them as the voice of God speaking to man. In Psalms 29:4 he said: “The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is full of majesty.” Perhaps you, too, have felt this as you have seen a storm sweeping down, have seen the splendor of the lightning, and trembled a little as a clap of thunder seemed to shake the earth. Yes, His voice is in these things.

In the summertime, although clear, blue skies may accompany a bright, sunny day, a storm will sometimes come up unexpectedly. Warm drafts of air, called thermals, often start this change. Rising extremely high and swiftly, moisture in them condenses and forms a beautiful, fleecy cumulus cloud, looking like a mound of whipped cream. But its beauty is deceiving. Within it, turbulent winds form, whirling like a cyclone at speeds of over 200 miles per hour. Soon it changes its beauty into a darkened thunderhead. Inside the cloud, the temperature is dropping, and soon ice particles are whirling madly about. Crashing into one another, they become hailstones.

All this violent action creates brilliant flashes of lightning. Soon the hailstones grow too heavy to stay aloft and break through, heading for the earth. At times, they remain frozen and, merging with one another, can become as large as baseballs, arriving with enough force to dent car tops or break windows. What is God saying in all this? Surely He is reminding us that although we may be very proud and think highly of ourselves, we are as nothing in the presence of His power when it is displayed this way.

But not all storms are destructive. Usually the hail melts and turns into rain on the way down, and the soil quickly drinks it up. This is the goodness of God, as His Word, the Bible, tells us: “For He looketh to the ends of the earth, and seeth under the whole heaven; to make the weight for the winds; and He weigheth the waters by measure. When He made a decree for the rain, and a way for the lightning of the thunder.” Job 28:24-26.

Not only does the soil drink up this moisture, but plants and trees welcome it, and the Biblical expression “the little hills rejoice on every side” is evident, as everything is freshened. Birds, which took refuge from the storm, come out of hiding and also sing for joy, for the rain has brought to the surface a nice feast of worms and insects. If the rain continues, it seeps to underwater channels and replenishes the “water table"—a reservoir kept in the cool earth for the benefit of many of God’s creatures, including man and his wells and irrigation systems.

The thunderstorm and its moisture provide just another way in which the Lord looks over all the earth and blesses it with His goodness. Think about this the next time you witness such a storm. God will be speaking to you in it.

ML-07/26/1981

"I Don't Want To!"

Memory Verse: “The Lord is ... not willing that nay should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

“But I don’t want to!” Charlie answered his mother. She had just told him to come in the house, since it looked like it was going to rain.

As she went back into the house, Charlie said to himself, “I’m having fun out here with my wagon. It’s no fun in the house. I know, I’ll go down the street so she won’t see me.”

Charlie started off down the street, pulling his wagon. Down a ways, the street ended at a large, open field with woods all around it. He had been down there on picnics with his family, but never by himself. A path led from the street to a little bridge which crossed a stream. The path crossed the field over to the woods. Pulling his wagon, Charlie followed the path across the bridge and out into the field. Finding pretty, wild flowers along the path, he picked some and put them in the wagon. Looking for more flowers, Charlie was soon off the path and getting farther and farther away from home.

A little later, Charlie’s mother realized that he had not obeyed her. She went to the door again, but he was nowhere in sight. She sent Kristin, Charlie’s older sister, out to look for him. While Kristin was looking for Charlie around their house, he was wandering deeper in the woods.

Suddenly, Charlie realized that he was lost. First, he had gone off the path to pick dandelions in the field. Then, just at the edge of the woods, he had found bright, yellow buttercups. Deeper in the woods, he had found pretty, blue violets and some other flowers. Now, he didn’t know where he was.

Suddenly, there was a flash of lightning followed by a loud clap of thunder. Then there was another flash, this time much closer. The next blinding flash was so close that it frightened Charlie, and he began to cry.

The first big drops of rain were cold. Even under the trees, the heavy thunderstorm soon soaked Charlie. The wind blew hard, making him shiver. The lightning and loud thunder claps scared him. He tripped and fell in the mud, and branches tore at his clothes. Poor Charlie was a miserable little boy! Oh, how he wished that he hadn’t said, “I don’t want to.” He wanted to be in his dry, warm house with his mother holding him, but he couldn’t find his way home. Then as he stumbled along, still pulling his wagon, he fell and cut his hand on a stone. It really frightened him when he saw the blood smeared all over his hand and dirty, wet clothes.

Finally, he couldn’t walk any farther. He sat down in his wagon under a tree and cried. Then he prayed a simple little prayer—“Please, God, help me!” adding, “and I’m sorry I didn’t listen to my mother.” That was the last thing he remembered as he fell into an exhausted sleep.

When he woke up, he was in a hospital room. His muddy clothes were gone, and he was warm, dry and clean. Beside him was a doctor and a nurse. His worried mother and father were standing at the end of the bed. The doctor was saying, “He will be all right now. He can probably go home tomorrow.”

After the doctor and nurse left, Charlie heard what had happened. When Kristin couldn’t find him, his mother had gone out to look for him. When she couldn’t find him either, she called the police. He had been gone for several hours when they found him in the woods under the tree. He had been rushed to the hospital, and now it was late the same evening. Charlie had to spend the night in the hospital.

A few days later, the family was reading in the Bible in Luke chapters 15. The story was about the prodigal son, in verses 11-32. When they finished reading, Charlie said, “I think I know what the boy in the story felt like when he wanted to get back. That’s how I felt in the woods!”

His father commented, “Yes, Charlie, I guess you know something about it. And I know something about how the father in the story felt when his son returned.”

Charlie asked his mother, “But what made you so glad to get me back, since I had been so bad?”

Tears filled up his mother’s eyes as she answered, “It is because I love you so much. And that was why the father was so glad to have his son back, in the story we just read.”

That is also why God wants each of us to come to Him. Each one of us is lost and on our way to hell. God loved us so much that He sent the Lord Jesus to die on the cross for us. There He took the punishment for our sins. Now God welcomes us back, because of what His Son has done for us. All we have to do is tell Him we are a sinner, and believe that Jesus was punished for those sins. The blood that He shed on the cross will wash those sins away, if we ask Him to. Then we are no longer lost, but saved and on our way to heaven.

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

ML-08/02/1981

Caught by the Flood

Poor little chicks—they had only been hatched a few days, and here they were having trouble already. It had been warm and snug at home in the nest, and Mother Hen had taken good care of them.

However, Mother Hen and the three little chicks did not know about spring floods. Now the three chicks were sailing across the flooded fields all alone in a wooden shoe. Soon they were rescued and grew to be plump hens in another barnyard. It is just as well not to think about the other little chicks that did not find a wooden shoe in which to float.

But where was the foot that belonged to the lost, wooden shoe that rescued the chicks? Well, I’m glad to say that there was warning before this flood came. Although almost everything in the house was ruined, the owner of the wooden shoe had a rowboat to save him from the flood. He now has a new pair of wooden shoes to wear, and he still tells the story of how he escaped from the flood.

We should be thankful that God has given us more intelligence than He has given to chickens. When we see trouble coming, we can usually find a way to avoid it. This is why we are warning you that trouble is coming on this world. God has said that He will judge the world. “He hath appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world in righteousness by that Man whom He hath ordained....” Acts 17:31. What will become of you then? The little chicks that did not find safety in the shoe died. They did not know any better, but you do. Why wait until God’s judgment overtakes you? There will be no way of escape then. Get ready now, since you will soon be meeting God. He gave His only Son, the Lord Jesus, so that you maybe saved. Soon the Lord Jesus is coming to take all His own home to heaven before His judgment time comes. The Lord Jesus is the only One who can save you. Won’t you come to Him now and be saved forever?

“A prudent (wise) man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.” Proverbs 22:3.

ML-08/02/1981

Two Big Rabbits

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. The beast of the field shall honor Me.” Isaiah 43:19,20.

The Jackrabbit

In desert country, you may not have to travel far before seeing a Jackrabbit, another interesting example of God’s creation. It may be sitting up on its hind legs watching your every move, or leaping away in zig-zag fashion to get out of sight. With its big ears usually pointing upward, this furry animal is a common desert dweller.

Yet all species do not have the same size ears. In Australia, their ears are of enormous size. These give it a keen sense of hearing, and they also act as “coolers” by giving off body heat. High body temperature is a real problem in the intense heat of that land. The ears of Jacabbits in the deserts of the United States are much shorter, since they live in colder areas and need to conserve heat in the cooler seasons. How wise our Creator was to help these active animals to be comfortable, no matter where they live.

The Jackrabbit has a keen sense of sight. Its eyes see in front, to the side, and even behind. This, along with its keen sense of hearing, helps keep it alert to the threats of enemies. Its great hind legs enable it to make leaps and bounds at speeds up to forty-five miles an hour. It can also jump five feet in the air while leaping five or ten feet in distance. If it is being chased by an enemy, it can even do better!

The Snowshoe Rabbit

The Snowshoe Rabbit is a cousin of the desert Jackrabbit. This spies can live comfortably in the cold northland. It has long, strong hind legs like its relatives of the south, but its ears are much shorter, since it needs to keep its body heat in that climate.

The one thing that sets it apart from the others more than anything else, is the “snowshoes” it wears in winter. Its feet, about twice the size of a Jackrabbit’s, have toes spread wide apart, and as winter approaches, long hairs grow between them, forming a pad. With these it can walk on top of the snow and easily leap through it in ten-foot jumps.

In addition, God gives it a white winter coat in exchange for the brown one of summer. When sitting still on the snow, it is almost invisible. Toward spring, as the snow melts and patches of white, mixed with rocks and brown soil, appear, its white coat changes into a mottled one, helping it to hide. When all the snow is gone, its coat returns to brown again for the summer.

These animals do not stop to think about God’s care over them or the benefits given them when they were created. God’s care over us is very real, too, and we should think about it and of His great love for us. For those who know that love and have found salvation through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ, and His death on Calvary, the invitation is given: “Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:7. Have you learned to trust Him?

ML-08/02/1981

Missionary Guide

Memory Verse: “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

As we approached the native village, I breathed a sigh of relief. It had been a long, hot, tiring day of walking through the jungle. There should be plenty of food in the village and a place to sleep. Being a missionary in Africa, I had visited this village several times. I knew that my native helpers and I would be welcome.

Shortly after we arrived in the village, we were told there wasn’t any food. Elephants had trampled down all the crops. A hunting party had been sent out each morning to hunt food, but game was scarce this time of year. The natives could not get close enough to the animals to use their spears. I offered to go out with my gun to shoot a buffalo. My offer was gratefully accepted by the chief.

“But you must wait until the hunters come back,” he advised. “They will go with you so you don’t get lost in the jungle. They will guide you to the waterholes where there are many buffalo.”

My helpers and I sat down to wait, but the longer I sat the hungrier I got. Finally, I suggested to the chief that my men would go with me and the hunting party could catch up when they returned.

The chief told us that we should not go without a guide, since we would get lost on the many crisscrossing animal trails.

We waited a few more hours. Finally, I decided I couldn’t wait any longer. Going against the advice of the old chief, my helpers and I started off into the jungle. The trails that we followed twisted and turned as we got closer to the river. Sometimes we did not know which of them to take, but we kept on walking anyway. We finally reached the river, and, hiding in the brush, we waited for the buffalo.

It wasn’t long until we spotted one. After following it for some distance, I got a clear shot and was able to kill it. My men quickly started skinning the large animal. It took about two hours to get the meat cut and packed and ready to carry back to the village. It started to get dark as we were ready to start back. We discovered we did not know which of the many trails led to the village. Every trail looked the same to us. Suddenly, we heard the roars of lions approaching! We knew they were being attracted by the smell of fresh meat.

We worked fast to get as much of the meat stored in trees as we could. Then we climbed up into the trees right along with our meat. It wasn’t long before several lions appeared and began feeding on the buffalo carcass.

One of the native helpers climbed to the top of the tree to see if he could see any sign of the hunting party. He would call them, then listen for an answering call. There wasn’t any. He continued calling for the next three hours until we heard a faint answer which gradually came closer.

At last the hunting party from the village appeared. They were carrying torches and shouting as loud as they could. Their noisy approach with the fire torches scared the lions, and they ran off.

I was very thankful, but felt foolish as I climbed down the tree. I realized I should have waited and not started out on the hunting trip without a guide. We thanked our rescuers, loaded up the meat and started back to the village.

Up and down hills, through valleys and the dense undergrowth of the jungle, the native hunters led us back to the safety and shelter of the village. The chief came out to meet us and took us to his own campfire.

After we had eaten some of the meat which had been roasted over the fire, I turned to the chief and said, “Chief, I have something to tell you. I was lost in the jungle today because I didn’t have a guide. It’s not the first time that I have been lost. Years ago as a young man, I did not know the Lord Jesus Christ as my Saviour. I did not have Him as the Guide for my life. Although I had heard many times that I needed to be saved, I did not obey. I laughed at God’s offer of love and mercy and decided I didn’t need it. Everything went well for awhile, but then I discovered I was lost and needed a Saviour. I called for help, just like we did in the jungle tonight. God heard my call, just like your hunting party heard our calls for help. Then the true Guide, the only One who can rescue us from sin, saved me. He rescued me from Satan’s power and lifted me up in His loving arms, and He is now taking me safely home. He wants to save you, too, Chief. He shed His blood so that you, also, can be protected in His arms. He loves you just like He loves me, and He is waiting to be your Saviour.”

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

ML-08/09/1981

What Color Is Jesus' Skin?

A little boy in Africa asked a missionary, “Was Jesus a black man?” The missionary answered, “No, my boy.”

A smile lit up the boy’s face and he said happily, “Then Jesus belongs to both of us, doesn’t He?”

“As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” John 1:12.

ML-08/09/1981

Wuggins

I once visited a farm where the children had a pet lamb named Wuggins. The children had to raise him all by themselves, because Wuggin’s mother had died.

The farm was in hilly country, and Wuggins liked to run and play on the hills. Sometimes he got too far away from home and couldn’t find his way back. Then the children would go out looking for him until they found him.

One day Wuggins really got lost. First, the children looked for him.

Then their parents looked for him. Finally, they asked me to help look, too. We all went into the hills, and each of us looked in a different area. We called, “Wuggins, Wuggins,” until we were all hoarse, but there was no sign of him.

I was climbing up the side of a steep hill when I was startled to see Wuggins looking at me from a clump of bushes. I called him. But he ran away, because he did not know my voice. I hurried back to tell the others. The children ran to where I had seen Wuggins. They soon found him. When Wuggins heard the children calling, he ran to them, because he knew their voices. He was picked up and carried home by the happy children who loved him very much.

Each one of us is just like Wuggins. We are lost if we don’t know the Good Shepherd. The Lord Jesus is that Good Shepherd. He said, “I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.” John 10:11.

He also tells us later in the chapter, “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.

The Lord Jesus loves us and wants us to come to Him and be saved. All we need to do is believe on Him. Jesus died for His sheep. Why did He do that? Because we are lost sheep and need to be found. The Bible says, “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 (sin) of us all.” Isaiah 53:6. Ask the Lord Jesus to be your Saviour, and He will pick you up in His strong arms and carry you to heaven, just like the children carried Wuggins home. Won’t you listen to the voice of the Good Shepherd and come to Him right now?

“I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of mine.” John 10:14.

ML-08/09/1981

The Twinkling Firefly

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world.” Acts 15:18.

The Firefly is a beetle that is fascinating to all of us. Seeing them flitting about on a summer night is an interesting experience, as the flashes, coming from the underpart of their bodies, flicker on and off. In some tropical areas, there are large Firefly species, and natives keep them in glass cages to use for light.

Scientists would like to duplicate this kind of heatless light, because it is much more efficient than electricity. They know how the light is produced, but the reaction is so complex that it is impossible for man to make it. We should not be surprised at this, because it is a very special reaction created for these insects by their divine Creator.

The Firefly starts life in the ground; even its eggs have a glow to them. Before it is ready to fly, it develops into a Glowworm. You may have seen these shining prettily as they crawl around looking for food.

There is another illuminated insect found in some caves in New Zealand. This little fly, while still a maggot, gathers with others in groups of several thousand on the ceilings of caves and glows in the darkness. It first attaches itself to the roof of the cave. Then a two-foot long string drops from its mouth with small, sticky balls on it. It waits in the darkness, with its tail-light glowing, until it feels a victim struggling to get loose from one of the sticky balls. Pulling it up, it eats the victim along with the line on which it is caught. Then it lets down a new string.

Over half a million species of insects abound throughout the world, and God has made each one different. This variety of creation speaks of His handiwork and never-tiring care over them. In spite of what some people incorrectly teach, all these little creatures, as we now see them, are exactly the same today as they were the day they were created, thousands of years ago. God designed each one to bring forth after its kind. Furthermore, they always obey His laws without question, and by doing so every need is provided for.

We are reminded from these lighted displays that the Lord Jesus was announced as the true Light of the world. God has given His people a special kind of light which He wants displayed, too. His Word, the Bible, says: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16.

But the only true light shining from us is that which comes from God. David the Psalmist referred to this, saying: “For Thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness.” Psalms 18:28. It is only when by faith we accept the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour that He brings us “out of darkness into His marvelous light.” Then we can please Him in our activities and shine out for Him.

The light of a Christian life, shining for Him, is rewarding and will make happy. Are you experiencing this?

ML-08/09/1981

August 16, 1981

Lost in the Toy Department

Memory Verse: “I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.” John 10:28

Peggy and her mother had gone downtown shopping one Saturday afternoon. They were in a large department store, looking at ladies’ dresses. Peggy wasn’t interested in these. She wanted to go to the floor that had all the toys.

“When can we see the toys?” Peggy asked.

“In just a minute,” replied her mother as she looked at some more dresses that were on sale.

A few minutes later, Peggy said again, “Please, Mommy, let’s go see the toys.”

“All right, we’ll go now,” replied her mother, and off they went.

Three flights of moving stairs brought them to the toy department. As they walked in, an electric train with real lights and a noisy whistle was speeding along through tunnels and under little bridges. In another corner were all the pretty dolls, and then there were games. Peggy wanted to stay there all day just looking at everything. She wandered from one toy to another, having such a good time!

Then she saw a beautiful dollhouse that looked almost real enough to live in. After she had looked in all the windows, she called her mother: “Mommy, come see this dollhouse!”

When her mother didn’t answer, Peggy looked around quickly, but she couldn’t see her. There were lots of people all around, but not her mother. Peggy called louder, “Mommy, Mommy!” When there was still no answer, Peggy started to cry. “Mommy, where are you?” she sobbed. Some of the other people and sales clerks tried to help her, but all Peggy would say through her tears was, “I want my Mommy!”

Peggy was lost! As she sat in one of the little chairs surrounded by all the things that had interested her, the only thing she wanted was her mother. Suddenly, she thought she heard a familiar voice. She stopped crying to listen.

“Peggy, Peggy, where are you?” It was her mother!

“Here I am, Mommy,” she called as she ran to her mother. “I’m so glad you found me. I was lost and scared.”

But she didn’t have time to say much more, because Mother was hugging Peggy tightly in her arms. “I was frightened, too,” she whispered to Peggy.

Peggy had been lost for a little while before she realized it. As long as she didn’t know she was lost, she enjoyed looking at all the toys. She was having such a good time until she discovered that her mother was not near her. Then she became frightened, knowing she was lost.

Perhaps there are some children reading this story who are lost and don’t know it. You are happy and having a good time. But actually you are lost, because you are not near to God and you cannot find your own way. God can see you, and He wants to take you by the hand and show you the way. Don’t run away from Him. He loves you and wants to save you. “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10. He sent the Lord Jesus to die for you. Believe Him and accept Him as your Saviour. He will be a Father to you, staying close by all the time and never letting you out of His sight. He will take care of you until He has you at home in heaven.

He gives us a promise in John 10:28: “I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.”

ML-08/16/1981

"Please, Dad, Take the Book!"

“Take the book, Dad, please take the book,” pleaded 11-year-old Maria. “You can read it tonight dung your break.”

“No, Maria, I don’t have time. Where’s my lunch?”

“On the kitchen table, Dad.”

As he disappeared into the kitchen, Maria slipped the little book into her father’s coat pocket. Her father, lunch in hand, picked up his coat, gave Maria a kiss and walked out the door.

“Please, Lord Jesus,” prayed Maria, “make Daddy read that book. I so want him to know You.”

Two years earlier, Maria’s mother had died. She took care of her father alone, washing his clothes, cooking his meals and taking care of their little home in central Chile. She liked school and studied hard, but her real joy was learning more about the Lord Jesus Christ. Maria had learned that “the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom. 6:23), and she had accepted God’s gift.

Now she was concerned for her father. After her mother’s death, he had become sad and indifferent to everything around him. Her efforts to bring him to the Lord Jesus Christ had not succeeded. When a missionary came by one day with Christian books, Maria had an idea—maybe her father would read a booklet.

After she told the missionary what she wanted, he gave her a booklet, saying, “I think he might read this one.”

All Maria could do now was pray and hope. Perhaps tonight her father would find the book in his coat and read it.

The explosion at 1:10 a.m. shook the mining town awake. Sirens wailed. The townspeople rushed to the mine entrance, fearful of what they would find. Maria was among them. She watched anxiously as a beehive of men desperately dug out the caved-in mine entrance. They pulled out debris and shoveled out dirt to make a passageway for oxygen, then went in to search for any survivors. After what seemed like hours, there was a scream of joy. Some had survived! With other girls and mothers, Maria huddled at the entrance to watch the men come out. But her father was not among them!

The hours dragged by, on and on into the next day. With each passing hour, hope faded. The missing men had been caught deep in the mine. Late in the second night, they found them, One of the searchers described the scene: “As we were digging deep in the mine, the ground gave way suddenly. Once the dust had settled, we saw the bodies—they were in a circle, all eight of them. One man had a small book in his hand, and it was opened to the last page. With a piece of charcoal he had scratched out a message: ‘My dearest little Maria, when you read this, I will be with your mother. Thank you for putting the little book in my coat pocket. I read it several times and all the men listened. I did what the book says and accepted Jesus as my Saviour. I love you very much. One day we’ll all be together in heaven. All my love, dearest Maria, and God bless you.’ "

Maria, though heartbroken, was so thankful that her father had accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour. He almost had waited too long. Doesn’t this show God’s tender love in seeking those who will believe on Him? In Maria’s father’s greatest time of need, God saved him. It was Maria’s love for her father that was used to lead him to the Saviour. Her love for her father resulted in his turning to the Lord Jesus.

“Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us... 1 John 4:10.

ML-08/16/1981

A Miracle - Caterpillar to Butterfly

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“God that made the world and all things therein... giveth to all life, and breath, and all things.” Acts 17:24,25.

When a butterfly looks for a place to lay its eggs, it will select a spot on, or very close to, a plant that the hatched caterpillar will like to eat. God has given it wisdom to know just what the little ones will eat, even though the butterfly itself does not eat anything.

When the egg hatches, what a surprise to the observer! It might be that he expected a baby butterfly to appear. But no, it is a little caterpillar that comes out. In spite of its small size, it has strong jaws and will spend its life eating leaves, fruit, or small plants, much to the dismay of gardeners. Four times in its life, its skin will become too tight, split open and drop off. A new skin will have already formed underneath, to replace it.

Many caterpillars are eaten by birds, but the one that fools this enemy is the Swallowtail. When it is aware of a bird looking at it with greedy eyes, it turns over on its back and two large imitation eyes appear, so he then looks just like a snake. The frightened bird flies away. Do you suppose the caterpillar learned this by practicing, or by painting the “snake eyes” on itself? No, this means of escape was provided by the Creator when caterpillars were first created and passed on by Him to all following generations.

The time comes, usually at summer’s end, for a great change in its life. An inner urge tells it to stop eating and prepare for cold weather. It does this by first weaving a net of silk around itself. Then it spreads a liquid all over this new oval home (called a chrysalis), which becomes hard and shiny, as though coated with shellac. These are usually golden colored, although there are other colors, too, and each is camouflaged to be hidden in its surroundings. The caterpillar (now called a pupa) stays totally quiet inside and remains that way through the cold winter.

But a miracle is taking place inside this shiny chrysalis. When it finally opens, a full-grown butterfly comes out, spreads its wings and flies off on an entirely new life. Its diet now will be limited to the nectar of flowers and blossoms, sipping it with a long, hollow tongue. When not in use, this coils up inside its mouth, like a watch spring.

Most butterflies are brightly colored, including the lovely Monarch. Another very pretty one is the Painted Lady, which makes long migrations between Africa and Iceland. In the jungles of Central and South America, there are more beauties, an outstanding one being the Blue Morpha. Color markings of each species are always the same, because God has instructed them to reproduce “after their kind,” and they never get mixed up.

The life of these interesting creatures is a reminder that God invites us to also make changes in our natural lives. We come into the world with natures that are selfish and sinful. But God has provided a way for us to be “born again” through the death of Christ on Calvary’s cross. When we accept Him as Lord and Saviour, we are brought into “newness of life... dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:4,11. Have you made this important change in your life?

ML-08/16/1981

"Be Ye Therefore Ready"

Memory Verse: “Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.” Luke 12:40.

“Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.” Luke 12:40. The Sunday school teacher was reading the words slowly so that his class would realize how important it is to be ready for the Lord’s coming. As usual, Scott sat back in the corner looking out the window, only half listening as the verse was again repeated. It was a lovely, warm summer day, and the thoughts of a great afternoon of baseball and fun were not allowing the words to enter his heart.

Several hours later, Scott sat on the back steps of his home, waiting for Mother to finish the dishes so she wouldn’t see him sneak off to the baseball game. Finally, after what seemed like forever, she dried her hands on the towel—a signal that the dishes were done. Coming to the back door, she said, “Scott, please don’t leave the backyard this afternoon, will you?” Scott didn’t answer because he didn’t want to lie to his mother, thinking to himself, “If I don’t promise, I won’t be lying.” Strange, though, how his mother seemed to know just what he was secretly planning.

As soon as he heard her footsteps leave the kitchen, he quickly ran down the steps, across the yard and jumped over the back fence. He was on his way to an afternoon of fun, so he thought. But that very afternoon the Lord was going to speak to Scott in a real way about what the verse meant that they’d had in Sunday school: “Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.”

On his way to the corner baseball game, he passed the Taylor’s house and noticed a horseshoe game being played in the backyard by Mr.

Taylor, his two sons, and a neighbor. Scott had been wanting to try to play horseshoes for some time, so he stopped to watch. Just as he had hoped, he was soon asked to join in the game. Boy, what fun it was to throw horseshoes; and he was quite good at it, too.

In an especially exciting game, Scott stooped down to pick up his horseshoes, forgetting that all the shoes were not thrown yet. “Look out, Scott!” yelled Mr. Taylor, but it was too late. Before he could move out of the way, the horseshoe hit him on the head. He felt an awful pain in his head, and as he fell to the ground these words flashed across his mind, “Be ye therefore ready.”

Mr. Taylor ran into the house to get a first aid kit and called to his wife. Mrs. Taylor hurried outside. They washed the blood from his face, cleaned the deep cut in his head, and applied some medicine and a bandage. Mrs. Taylor had Scott lie down in the shade until he felt well enough to go home.

Until now, Scott had thought he could get away with being disobedient. But now with this bandage, Mother and Dad would know what he had done. He was sorry now he had disobeyed. His head was beginning to throb painfully, and he was sure he would be punished when he got home. The afternoon that once promised so much pleasure had turned into a disaster!

When he got home, he went in as quietly as possible through the back door. As he headed toward his room, he became aware of how quiet it was in the house. In fact, he got the feeling that he was all alone. He hurried to the front of the house, but no one was there. Alarmed, he ran upstairs, searching each room, but no one was up there either. Could the Lord have come? He knew the Bible said Jesus was coming again. He looked at the clock—it was 8:00. No wonder no one was home, the family was at the gospel meeting! Coming back downstairs, he glanced out the front door.

He could hardly believe his eyes—the family car was in its usual place in front of the house! The Lord must have come, and he was left here on earth!

He thought of the Meyers family who were Christians. Their oldest son, Mark, was his best pal. Mark had told him just last year that he had accepted Jesus as his Saviour. He would go check their house. He went by the baseball game on his way to the Meyers’ home. It no longer interested him, because something was far more important to him now. When he got to the Meyers’ home, his worst fears were confirmed—there was no one at the Meyers’ house either! A very frightened Scott hurried back home, unable to shut out that verse that had once seemed unimportant: “Be ye therefore ready: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.” He remembered hearing his Dad say, “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, the Lord will come, and then it will be too late to be saved.”

By the time he reached home, he was in a near panic, tears streaming down his face. He was sure he was lost forever! He sat on the front steps wondering what would happen to him now. He wished over and over again that he had accepted Jesus as his Saviour before it was too late. Just then a car pulled up and stopped in front of the house, and his Mother, Dad and two sisters got out. They had gone to meeting with Uncle John and Aunt Nancy. That’s why the car was still at home.

Words could not describe Scott’s relief. How thankful he was that the Lord hadn’t come yet! It wasn’t too late to be saved, but he knew now that he had better not waste any more time. Mother and Dad, not knowing his thoughts, were asking other questions—why did he have that bandage on his head, and why wasn’t he home in time to go to meeting? They had been very worried about him. When he told them the whole story, they were very sorry that he was hurt, but his father reminded him that it was the result of his disobedience. As a further punishment, he would not be allowed to go out to play after school for two weeks. Being grounded for two weeks would have seemed unbearable before today’s experience, but now he had a far greater worry. He knew he was not ready for the Lord to come.

Alone in his room, he threw himself on his bed and cried to God to save him from the punishment that his sins deserved, and to make him ready for the Lord’s coming. He told God that he wanted Jesus to be his Saviour. He thanked God for giving His only Son to die on the cross for sinners like him. Now he believed the verses he had only memorized before. His heart was filled with happiness, because now he had peace with God. Down the stairs he flew to tell Mother and Dad the good news!

That night there was joy in heaven over one sinner repenting, and there was joy in Scott’s home, a joy never known until then. Today, many years later, Scott still remembers that night and the happiness that filled his heart, happiness that has never left him.

ML-08/23/1981

The Ladder to Heaven

Three-year-old Ryan had just been tucked into bed by his mother. He suddenly looked up at her and got a very serious look on his face and said, “There are no stairs up to heaven. How can we get up there?”

The family had been reading in the Bible about “Jacob’s ladder,” and Ryan must have been thinking about it. His mother explained to him that the Lord Jesus is the Way, and that He will come to take everyone who is saved up to heaven.

When Ryan was eight years old, he asked the Lord Jesus Christ to be his Saviour. Since then he has been trying to live in a way that is pleading to the Lord Jesus while he waits for Him to come. Ryan knows, and you should know, too, what the Lord Jesus promised His disciples. Read it for yourself in John 14:3—“I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”

ML-08/23/1981

The Adelie Penguin

“The world and the fullness thereof, Thou hast founded them. The north and the south Thou hast created them.” Psalms 89:11,12.

In an earlier issue, we talked about the four-foot Emperor Penguin. The Adelie, less than half that tall, is much like it, but has several differences. For instance, the Emperors go to the cold Antarctic in April, lay only one egg and hatch it on an adult’s foot covered with a flap of warm skin. The Adelie goes to the Antarctic in September or October, lays two eggs and hatches them in a rocky nest. A patch of bare skin, exposed only at that time, gives body warmth to the eggs. But after they hatch, feathers cover over the patch of bare skin once again! How wonderfully the Creator takes care of every detail.

Like the Emperor, the Adelie looks very dignified in its black and white tuxedo suit. When they arrive at the icy Antarctic, they march to the exact spot in the rocks where they each laid their eggs the year before. Although seven months have passed since they last saw each other, the male and female recognize each other and return to their nest. As all Adelies look alike to us and the nests all seem identical, isn’t it amazing that they know one from another? God has given them this ability.

After the eggs are laid, the female returns to the ocean. Her mate sits on them for two weeks while she stuffs herself on seafood. Then she returns, and he feeds in the ocean for two weeks while she tends the eggs. When he comes back, he takes on the egg-sitting for one final week. We marvel at the way God has enabled them to know just when each two-week period has passed.

The parents, at first, alternate taking care of feeding the twins. Later, both parents hunt together, and in their absence the babies join other little ones. When the adults return, they call out, and even though hundreds of other parents are doing the same, each chick knows the call of its own parents.

Soon “papa penguin” begins to provide necessary exercise for his young. With a little food as a reward, he runs off and they run after him. Then “papa” gives them their reward. This is repeated several times until they are filled and have had their exercise as well. Finally, the day comes when he leads them to the sea and leaves them. They must jump in the water and find their own food, or starve. The young penguins are reluctant to do this at first, but they seem to be right at home once they have jumped in.

The interesting ways of the penguins show one more instance of God’s care over all His creation, for He is the One who directs them in ways we cannot understand. Is there guidance from Him for you, too? Yes, there surely is. His Word, the Bible, says, “In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:6. Those who do find His promise is true: “Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” Psalms 37:4.

ML-08/23/1981

A Prickly Playmate

Memory Verse: “He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5

Corky was a very playful and curious young dog. He was always getting into places where he shouldn’t or chewing on things that are not good for puppies. He liked to chase rabbits, squirrels, and even birds, but he could never catch them. He liked to chase cats, too. And when they didn’t run away, Corky would run circles around them, teasing them. He seemed to like to hear them hiss and scratch at him.

One day, Corky got very excited. He must have thought what he saw climbing down a tree was a cat. He bounded over to play with it, or tease it.

Soon he could see that this animal was not acting like a cat at all. It did not hiss or try to scratch him or run away. It just curled up into a ball with its feet tucked under its body and watched Corky.

Corky got more and more excited as he circled around it, barking loudly. The little eyes of this strange animal watched him guardedly. Even when Corky got close enough to nip at it, it still did not move. Corky moved in closer and closer. Still this “strange cat” did not move. But when Corky took a nip at it, he jumped back with a surprised yelp of pain.

Corky’s captive still had not moved, yet something had hurt him terribly when he had nipped it. Corky nipped it again, but again he jumped back yelping in pain. Now Corky was really mad. He tried to bite this animal on one side and then the other, only to jump back in pain each time. Finally, he gave up his attack, and yelping with pain he headed for home.

Then the porcupine uncurled himself and ambled off.

Corky crawled under the front porch in misery. His nose, tongue and mouth were burning and stinging with what felt like fiery needles. Finally, when his owner called him, he came crawling out. Loving hands comforted him, and the quills were soon removed. Corky once again crawled under the far corner of the porch, a much wiser, but a very unhappy puppy.

Would you be surprised if I said that some boys and girls choose a playmate that is just as strange as this porcupine? They decide to play with sin! They like to do things that are wrong, go places they know they shouldn’t, and say things that are not nice. These sharp, poisonous quills of sin will cause much pain and unhappiness, and lead them to hell.

The Lord Jesus sees these sharp, poisonous quills of sin causing you pain. He loves you and wants to save you. This Saviour and Friend will lovingly wash away your sins and heal the sore spots that sin has left. He will give you real joy and happiness forever!

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

ML-08/30/1981

The Doll That Grew

Becky lived on a small farm many years ago. She had a very strange doll. It looked very much like a gingerbread girl, but it was made out of cloth and hard, dry kernels of corn. Becky had wanted a doll for a long time, but they lived far away from the nearest town. After she had asked for a doll many times, her mother sat down and made one for her out of scraps of cloth. Then she stuffed it with corn from the grain bin.

It wasn’t a very pretty doll like girls have today, but Becky still loved her very much. She named her Betsy. She played house with Betsy and took her out for walks, just like little girls do with their dolls today.

One day, Becky and her brother Jimmy had a quarrel. Jimmy had been carving a little boat out of a block of wood. He was carefully cutting one of the masts when Becky accidently bumped into him. The boat was knocd out of his hand and broke when it hit the floor.

“Can’t you ever watch where you’re going?” Jimmy cried angrily. “Look what you did!”

“I don’t care if I did it!” snapped Becky. Then she thought to herself, “I shouldn’t have said that, because I really do care.” She was so ashamed of herself that she hurried out of the room.

“I’ll get back at her for that,” thought Jimmy, as he picked up the broken pieces of his boat. Just then he saw her doll lying on a chair. He snatched it and ran outside with it. He found a shovel in the tool shed, and then raced around to the garden. At the far end of the garden, Jimmy buried Becky’s doll in the dirt.

“There, that takes care of that! That’ll pay her back for breaking my boat,” he thought to himself. “Nobody will ever know what happened to it.”

But Jimmy had forgotten that God sees and knows everything that we do. The Bible tells us that “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, bolding the evil and the good” (Prov. 15:3), and “Be sure your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23.

It wasn’t long before Becky missed her doll. She cried and cried, but no one could find Betsy. The family couldn’t figure out what had happened to the doll, that is, everyone but Jimmy. The doll had just disappeared.

Jimmy wasn’t very happy after that. He told a lie when his mother asked him if he knew where the doll was. He began to feel that he had done something very wrong. He thought about digging up the doll again. But when he thought about the hard time he would have trying to explain how it got so dirty, he decided to leave it where it was.

A few days after a hard rain, Mother was in the garden picking tomatoes. Walking around the garden, she happened to notice a clump of new green plants at the far end. “That’s strange,” she thought. “I wonder what that is. Nothing is planted down there yet.” She walked over to look closer, and there, just in the shape of Becky’s cloth doll were new, green corn shoots. The corn which was in Becky’s buried doll had all started to grow. Jim’s hidden sin was discovered, just as the Bible said it would be.

Mother soon found out the whole story. Becky was scolded for not telling Jimmy she was sorry about his broken boat. And Jimmy had to be punished for taking something that didn’t belong to him and for telling a lie.

Sin hidden in the heart will also be uncovered. You cannot hide sin from God. He wants to wash your sins away and make your heart clean. God’s Word, the Bible, says that “the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7. The Lord Jesus loves you very much, and He is waiting for you to ask Him to wash your sins away. Why not ask Him to make your heart clean right now? Then your sins will “be as white as snow.” Isaiah 1:18.

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

ML-08/30/1981

Tasters

A business which makes the various flavored toppings for ice cream sundaes advertised for eight teenagers to be “tasters” of their products. They were to be paid for working on Saturdays. Their job was on a taste panel which tasted samples of each of the different toppings made by the company during the week. They were to either say “yes” or “no” to the toppings, based on their “taste test.”

Although there were only eight job openings for this type of work, more than two thousand teenagers applied! Who wouldn’t answer an ad that would pay you to eat ice cream sundaes? I would.

How sad to think, though, of so many people who would answer an ad to taste sundaes and so few who have answered God’s plea: “O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.” Psalms 34:8.

ML-08/30/1981

The Intricate Eye

“...He that formed the eye, shall He not see?” Psalms 94:9. "...Thou God seest me....” Genesis 16:13.

The eye is a most amazing organ—far more efficient than the finest camera. The lens, surrounded by fluids, automatically keeps the eye in focus. It allows you to immediately see a distant object clearly when turning your glance from a book you are reading. It is the cornea, a clear, oval window in front of the eye, that bends light rays and sends them on to the lens.

The pupil is the channel through which these light rays travel. In bright light, it appears small because it contracts, but it opens wider as the light dims. It is wide open in the dark and can increase its sensitivity some 10,000 times. In fact, human eyes exposed to darkness for awhile can see almost as well as an owl.

When the lens has focused the image, it is then passed on to the retina—the inside coating of the eyeball. The remarkable retina is only as thick as a piece of paper, but has ten layers (like an onion). It contains about 150 million rod and cone cells. Most of these are rod cells which help us see in dim light and separate shades of black and white. The cone cells help us see color and bright light. The retina is supplied with many blood vessels, but the cornea and lens have none, because they must be crystal clear at all times.

The white of the eye nourishes the cornea and thus has many blood vessels. It produces tears and another fluid which helps keep the eyes moist by flushing salt water over them. This is done when blinking, which we do about 30,000 times a day. Besides keeping the eyes moist, blinking helps remove foreign particles that might damage this sensitive organ.

Everything about the eye is automatic. Did you ever stop to think how wonderful it is that you can see stars trillions of miles away, and yet, without giving it any thought, you can focus on a tiny object just a few inches from your face? When watching some exciting activity, the eye will send millions of electrical impulses instantly to the brain, which immediately takes over to put the information to use. The picture received by the eye is always upside down, but the brain turns it right side up.

The statements of those who say the eye just happened to develop by itself are ridiculous. It is actually one of the great masterpieces of the Lord God, the divine Creator. It is important to remember that our eyes are not just for this life, but we will see in eternity as well. In the book of Job, he declares: “I know that my Redeemer liveth... Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold....” Job 19:25,27. In John 17:24, the Lord said: “Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me... may behold My glory.”

These delightful promises will be enjoyed by those who know the Lord Jesus Christ as their Saviour. But the eyes of those who reject Him will only see Him as their Judge, rather than as their Redeemer, and eternal punishment will be before them. In which group are you?

ML-08/30/1981

"No Trespassing!"

Memory Verse: “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.” Proverbs 15:3

Joe and I used to have a lot of fun as we walked back and forth to school. We lived in the country, and the road to the school was about a mile long. There were fields and woods on both sides of the road, but no houses. Sometimes we would see a farmer on a tractor in the field, but usually there was nobody around. We used to run through the woods, climb the trees and sometimes pick the flowers along the way.

One day, we noticed a big new sign which read, “No Trespassing.” It was on a post just at the edge of the woods where we liked to play. This sign meant we had to stay on the road and not go into these woods. It meant we could no longer climb the trees or pick the flowers.

We didn’t like that sign because it took away some of our fun. We wanted to just forget it was there. We threw a few stones at it the first day. Each day when we walked by, we threw more stones at it. Then we got the idea of throwing mud at it, until finally we could hardly read the words anymore.

We were acting like boys and girls who don’t like the warning signs in the Bible and do their best to stay away from anyone who might tell them about God’s Word.

One morning as we passed the woods, we saw a new sign had been put up with the same big black letters, “No Trespassing.” This time, we climbed the fence and pulled up the sign, post and all, and then we ran away as fast as we could. But somebody had seen us. The farmer had been watching, and he chased us all the way to school.

He went right into the principal’s office. It didn’t take him long to find out who the bad boys were. We were punished not only at school, but when we got home, too! The farmer had gotten our names and phone numbers and called our pants. We had to pay for the sign we ruined and replace the sign we had pulled up.

We should have had enough sense to know that ruining the first sign and pulling up the second sign did not change the law, “No Trespassing.” Many people think that they won’t have to answer to God if they just forget about Him and don’t pay any attention to what the Bible says.

We ran away from the farmer for almost a mile, but we were caught and punished. Some people go on for fifty years or more, running away from God. But in the end, they will be punished for their sins. “The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

The farmer that caught us was angry with us. But God, against whom you have sinned, loves you and wants to forgive you. He hates your sins, but loves you so much that His own Son, the Lord Jesus, was punished for your sins on Calvary’s cross. He died for your sins so that you can go free, if you will just ask Him to be your Saviour.

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

ML-09/06/1981

A Good Day's Catch

It looks like the fisherman who caught these fish had a good day of fishing. He fished patiently with his rod and line, probably using a worm or minnow for bait. Many times during the day, he felt the exciting tug on his line that signaled hf had caught another “big one.”

Now that the fishing day is over, our fisherman must prepare the fish before they can be eaten. He will remove the fins and scales, maybe the head and tail, clean them, and then they are ready for the frying pan.

The fins and scales have to be roved, because they are not good to eat. But these were very important to the fish.

God told the children of Israel in the Bible that they could not eat anything that lived in the water that did not have fins and scales. (See Leviticus 11:10.) Frogs, crabs, lobsters and eels do not have scales and fins, so they could not eat them.

Do you know why God made this law and what lesson it has for us today? Fins enable the fish to swim against the current, so that it doesn’t just move along with the current. The scales of the fish are like a coat of armor. They give the fish protection from the things around which might injure it. God calls any fish “clean” that has fins and scales. The ones without these He calls “unclean.”

God shows us many examples like this in the Bible. Even fish remind us of how He wants us to live in this world. He wants us to swim against the current. It is very easy to do what other children are doing, and just go along with them. But it takes energy to swim upstream, against the current. It takes energy not to go along with the rest or do wrong things that they are doing, because you want to please the Lord Jesus.

Have you ever heard of the salmon which swims long distances and even leaps up over waterfalls to get back to the stream where it hatched from a tiny egg? God gave it the strength and energy to do this. He will give you the strength and energy to go against any force of evil, if you are one of His “clean” ones (saved), and ask for His help.

Do the other children do things that are wrong and unkind? Remember that you don’t have to go along with what they do. Going upstream against their ways may be very hard and a real struggle. The Bible gives us a very good example in our blessed Lord Jesus dying for us, with all the people against Him. His life and His death were “against the current.” Now those of us who have been saved, because He has washed away our sins in His precious blood, find that the world has not changed, nearly 2,000 years later. The world is still against the Lord Jesus Christ, and we can only expect its scorn when we try to please Him.

“Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil.” Exodus 23:2.

ML-09/06/1981

Who Are You Following?

“B-r-r-r-m — B-r-r-r-m,” said Timmy as he played with his tractor. All summer long, Timmy made noises like those his daddy’s tractor made. During hay season, Timmy even filled his toy barn with grass, just the way he had seen his daddy haul in hay.

He is busy with his toys all day long on the lawn and in the sandbox. If anyone asks him what he is doing, he says, “Farming like Day.”

Don’t you think that when Timmy grows up, he will be just like his daddy? I think so. I know Timmy’s father is a good example for his son to follow.

There are many people today who are following the examples of those around them. Some are good examples, but some are not. No matter how good an example they are, they will still make some mistakes. People who are following their example will often make the same mistakes.

But we have good news!

There is Someone that we can follow who never has, never will and never can make a mistake! That Someone is the Lord Jesus Christ. Each one of us must decide if we are going to follow Him or go our own way. If we follow Him and obey His Word, the Bible, then He will guide us all the way to His home in heaven. But if we go our own way, it will take us down a path of sin that leads to hell.

For those of us like Timmy and his father, who have been saved from our sins, we want to be as much like the Lord Jesus as we can. Timmy wanted to do everything just like his daddy, because he loved his daddy. The Lord Jesus loves us much more than we love Him, and He wants us to learn as much about Him as we can. We can do this by reading our Bible carefully every day. We should also talk to Him in prayer every day. He will help us and guide us through each day.

“Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.” 1 Peter 2:21.

ML-09/06/1981

On The Lowly Sparrow

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father... ye are of more value than many sparrows. " Matthew 10:29, 31.

How pleasant it is to think that God is aware of even a small, coon bird as the sparrow. But everything, no matter how small or great, is of concern to Him whose eye is on all living things. If He lets His eye rest on a sparrow, how much more does He look on us of whom He says: “Ye are of more value than many sparrows.”

This drab little bird is known as the “House Sparrow” and enjoys making its nest around houses, barns, or other buildings. It is also called the “English Sparrow,” since Britishers brought them to America in 1850.

Although sparrows seem to enjoy hopping about on paved streets and sidewalks, they actually prefer living in brush beside cultivated fields. There they find food in the form of seeds or caterpillars or insects.

Scientists have been able to show that young sparrows’ food has to be at least seventy percent bugs and insects. As they grow, the amount of “living food” drops to only three percent, while adult sparrows feed almost entirely on seeds. Since the parents must feed the little ones until they mature, how do they know the babies need a diet so different from their own? Certainly they have learned this from God, the One who created and watches over them.

The sparrow does not look like much, but it does have some amazing features. For instance, its vision is far superior to the human eye. Flying swiftly over the ground, it can spot and stop for a seed on a grass stem. It apparently can also pick out special colors that mean food, even when several plants are growing together. Its eyes, about one fourth the size of a man’s, are large for its body. It can see ahead, to both sides and slightly behind. Thus, while flying, it can keep alert for hawks, buildings, trees or other objects.

Its feathers are complex. There is a central shaft in each feather, called the vane. From this vane there are barbs (branches) all along its surface. Each barb interlocks into its neighbor and provides a strong, tough surface. Special mules turn all or part of the feathers instantly, so its feathers and wings can raise, lower or rotate, all automatically. This provides lift, direction and balance while in flight. In cold weather, additional fuzzy down grows at the base of each feather, providing warmth and insulation.

We can easily see this little bird has been given all necessary provisions for its life by the Creator, of whom it is said: “Thou openest Thine hand, and satisfiest every living thing.” Psalms 145:16. The Psalmist also said: “One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple.” Psalms 27:4. It is good to let this desire rule in our hearts and to know Him as our personal Saviour.

ML-09/06/1981

"Danger! Keep Out!"

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

Janie walked slowly home after her music lesson. It was a beautiful afternoon. As she walked along the narrow, sandy path, she could hear the waves pounding on the rocks many feet below her. Up on the cliffs, she loved to feel the salty breeze blowing her hair away from her face. She loved to hear the sea gulls calling to one another and watch them as they glided on the air currents and then swooped down so close to the waves below. She loved the ocean. It seemed to awaken the adventuresome spirit in her, making her forget all that was around her and the cares of the day.

Janie had walked home this way many times. Each time, there was something that caught her eye. It made her so curious! Today she could stand it no longer! A little way off the path there was a large hole in the rocks. It looked like the mouth of a cave. Across it were large boards and signs that said, “DANGER! KEEP OUT!” Each time she passed by, she wondered what was in that cave. Maybe it was a tunnel that led to a beautiful underground tidal pool, or maybe it led to an opening way down the cliffs, where she could have a secret place to get away by herself and watch the sea gulls and feel the salty spray of the waves as they hit the rocks. Today she would find out, she decided, so she went over to take a closer look.

Really, it didn’t look as bad as the danger signs made it sound, so she crawled under the boards and went slowly forward. The light was dim in the cave, but she could see that it was a tunnel, and a tunnel always leads to somewhere. Janie decided she had to find out where this one led.

Slowly, carefully she made her way along the tunnel, her hands touching the narrow walls. It was damp, and she could see little crabs scuttling out of her way as she moved forward. There were starfish, too, and sea urchins inching their way along the wet walls of the cave. Janie noticed that the tunnel was slowly going down. As she made her way along, she came to a bend in the tunnel. Around the corner it was pretty dark. What was ahead? Maybe she was near the end. She thought it couldn’t be much farther. But what if there were a large hole in the floor of this cave that she couldn’t see and that she would fall into, or maybe there would be.... Well, Janie decided that she would find out.

Carefully inching her way forward in the darkness, she could hear the pounding of the waves much closer. The salty ocean smell was strong, and the air felt thick and clammy on her skin. Onward she inched, but she began to wonder if she should have turned back at the bend, or better yet, if she should have obeyed the signs at the mouth of the cave that warned her of the danger inside! This tunnel was so long and dark!

Just then she thought she saw a little ray of light coming from up ahead. Hopeful, she moved on. To her great relief, she saw that it was gradually getting brighter as she made her way forward. You can imagine her relief as she rounded another bend, and there before her was a large tidal pool lit up by the sunlight that was filtering through a hole just beyond it! She was at the bottom of the cliffs near where the waves came crashing onto the rocks. Looking into the pool, she noticed little sea anemones waving their many arms and many other interesting little creatures. As she watched them, it began to dawn on her that if the tide had not been out, the lovely pool would have been covered with several feet of water! What a thought! What would have happened to her if the waves had been rushing in and out of that dark tunnel? She could have drowned under those waves, and no one would have found her! Janie knew now why the danger signs were plainly posted at the mouth of the cave! Soon the tide would be coming in. She knew that she must head home. She was already late, and her mother would be getting worried. She hated the thought of going up that long, dark, clammy tunnel again, but she had to.

How thankful she was when she reached the top and crawled out under the boards again into daylight and safety!

Janie never forgot that lesson. It never pays to disobey. Disobeying is sin, and in the Bible, God tells us that “the wages of sin is death.” Romans 6:23. God has given many warnings of the danger ahead to those who follow the slippery path that leads down to hell. There are many who ignore His warnings. But boys and girls, He has not only given us a warning, but also a way of escape from the coming punishment. He gave His own Son to bear that punishment instead of us. The Lord Jesus could say, “I am come into deep waters, where the floods overflow Me.” Psalms 69:2. “Thy wrath lieth hard upon Me, and Thou hast afflicted Me with all Thy waves.” Psalms 88:7. “For Thou hadst cast Me into the deep, in the midst of the seas; and the floods compassed Me about: all Thy billows and Thy waves passed over Me.” Jonah 2:3. There on the cross of Calvary, God punished the Lord Jesus that we might go free and escape the punishment for our sins. Have you asked the Lord Jesus to come into your heart and be your Saviour? Did He bear your sins when He suffered there on the cross? He has promised, to those who trust Him, that He has “cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.” Micah 7:19. He will never see them nor remember them again.

The day is coming soon, boys and girls, when it will be too late. Then He will say to you, if you did not accept Him as your Saviour, “O that thou hadst hearkened to My commandments! then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea.” Isaiah 48:18.

ML-09/13/1981

No Other Way

Bill was a high school boy who had a part-time job in an auto-repair shop. He was a good worker and a serious, thoughtful boy, but he was not saved. The man he worked for knew and loved the Lord Jesus. He often spoke to others about the salvation of their souls. One day Bill’s boss explained to him the way of salvation. He explained that “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23. He told Bill how God sent His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, into the world to die for sinners. He told him that everything has already been done for us; salvation is free for the taking, although it cost the Lord Jesus so much.

After Bill had listened carefully and thoughtfully to that wonderful story, he asked, “Isn’t there any other way?”

Bill’s boss had to tell him, “No, according to God’s Word, the Bible, there is no other way.”

Why did he want another way? Perhaps it was pride that made him want to do something for his own salvation. God has opened the door to heaven for you. Don’t look for another way. His way is the best.

Jesus said, “I am the way.” John 14:6.

ML-09/13/1981

Not All Flies Are Bad

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“And there came a grievous swarm of flies into the house of Pharaoh, and into his servants’ houses, and into all the land of Egypt.” Exodus 8:24.

The swarm of flies sent by the Lord was one of the ways in which Pharaoh was punished for refusing to let the Israelites worship the Lord. It must have been a terrible experience, because the housefly is a nasty pest and a carrier of diseases, as well. We should be thankful for spiders, frogs, lizards and birds that help keep them in check.

Not all flies are filthy and harmful; many species are actually helpful, especially to farmers. One of these has a name much bigger than itself—Larvavaridea, also called the Flying Hedgehog. Its activities are entirely different than the housefly. Unfortunately, they look alike and are frequently killed as a result.

The Flying Hedgehog has clean habits and does not visit the filthy places preferred by its cousins. Unlike the housefly, it does not lay eggs, but gives birth to living maggots, laid on leaves of plants that are eaten by caterpillars. The maggot is so tiny that the caterpillar does not see it, but swallows it when biting the leaf. Unharmed, the maggot passes down the caterpillar’s throat and eats its tissues, finally killing it. The maggot soon transforms into a full-grown fly and is ready to produce more of its kind. As an adult, it is no hazard to people’s health. Its food is not decayed matter and garbage which the housefly enjoys. Instead, it eats the nectar of flowers. As it gathers this nectar, it helps in the growth of flowers and fruits by transferring pollen from one plant to another.

There is another good fly, but with a bad-sounding name, called the Robber Fly. It is equipped with spiny legs and a sharp beak. Perching on a stone or piece of wood until an insect comes along, it darts out suddenly, catching it in its hairy legs and carrying it back to its perch to eat. Actually, there are more than five thousand kinds of Robber Flies throughout the world, and all help mankind by destroying harmful insects.

Another one of interest is the Ichneumon, a very small fly with a dagger on the end of its abdomen. Using this, it pierces aphids and lays eggs inside them. When the eggs hatch out, they eat the aphid. They are also destroyers of the harmful Sawfly, which kills trees by tunneling in them. The Ichneumon goes right into the wood and lays its eggs near the Sawfly, and the harmful Sawfly larvae are found and eaten.

There are many other “good” flies, but there is not enough space here to tell about them. How they destroy harmful pests is another evidence of God’s goodness in keeping mankind from being overwhelmed by bad flies.

But He is good to us in even more important ways than this, too. We are told in Joel 2:13: “Turn unto the Lord your God: for He is gracious and merciful.” In Romans 2:4 we are warned not to despise “the riches of His goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.” Yes, the Saviour would have you taste and see that He is good. If you have not yet done this, won’t you come to Him today?

ML-09/13/1981

Lisa's Adventure

Memory Verse: “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23

Lisa was five years old and went to the morning kindergarten. After being with school friends all morning, her afternoons at home were just too quiet. Her older brothers and sister were still in school.

Lisa was playing with an old checkbook on her parents’ bed. Her mother was ironing clothes in the same room. Lisa soon got tired of the game she had made up.

Then she got a new idea! “Mommy,” she said, “I think I want to take a little walk and pretend I’m going shopping with all this money,” holding up the old checkbook.

“Fine,” answered her mother. “But you must stay close to home, and don’t cross the street!”

How excited Lisa was as she jumped off the bed, kissed her mother goodbye, and ran down the stairs and out the front door.

As Lisa played her shopping game on the sidewalk in front of her house, she soon forgot what her mother had said. Looking up the street she thought, “I wonder if there are any nice stores up there? I’ve never been up there before.” She had already crossed the street and started up the hill when she suddenly remembered what her mother had said. She looked back at her house and could see her mother was still ironing in front of the upstairs window. Lisa thought, “I should go back before Mommy sees me.” But instead of obeying her mother, Lisa ran on up the hill before her mother saw her.

When Lisa got to the top of the hill, she forgot all about what she had been told. She had never seen big brick fences around houses, like there were up here. It reminded her of the stories that her brothers and sister had told her, about the big castles where kings and queens lived. “It looks like it would be lots of fun to live here,” she thought as she walked along, not noticing that she was getting farther and farther from home.

We are just like little Lisa. The Bible tells us that we have “gone astray; we have turned every one to his own, way.” Isaiah 53:6. We are like lost sheep and cannot find our way to heaven by ourselves. But the Lord Jesus saw us wandering farther and farther away from Him. He came down from heaven to search for us and find us.

The Lord Jesus loves you and wants to be your Shepherd. He will guide you to His home in heaven. Won’t you let Him? Don’t refuse His offer of free salvation. He loves you so much that He died for you, so that you can live with Him in heaven forever. All you have to do is admit that you are a lost sinner needing a Saviour, and accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour. He was punished for your sins so that you can go free.

Lisa continued walking away from home. She wandered into a yard and talked to a kind old lady who was sitting on the porch.

“Are you lost, little girl?” the lady asked. “I’ve never seen you before.”

“No, I’m not lost,” answered Lisa. “I’m just on a shopping trip.”

“Oh, that’s nice,” said the lady.

Lisa didn’t stay there very long talking, because she wanted to get on with her “shopping trip.”

On wandered Lisa from one front yard to another until she found another little girl about her age. They had fun talking and playing with the little girl’s kitten. They were having such a good time that Lisa didn’t notice that it was getting late. The little girl’s mother came out and asked Lisa, “Shouldn’t you be going home now? It’s almost time for supper.”

Suddenly Lisa thought about her mother and her house. She started to leave, but she couldn’t remember how she had gotten to this yard. Lisa was scared. She started crying and ran down the sidewalk. “Why didn’t I listen to Mommy?” she thought as she ran crying. Looking up she saw a blue car that looked like her mother’s car. Was it? Yes it was, and Mother saw Lisa at the same time! Lisa ran as fast as she could to where the car had pulled over. She jumped into the car and kissed and hugged her mother.

“Oh, Lisa,” Mother said, “I’ve been looking all over for you! Why didn’t you stay close to home like I told you?”

How happy they both were to have found each other. Even playing with the kitten wasn’t as nice as being safe at home with her mother.

How this story reminds us of so many people who have wandered away from God, have not obeyed the Bible, and don’t even realize they are lost. Some people even say that there is no God. But God’s Word, the Bible, tells us, “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.” Psalms 14:1. Those who say that there is no God are really ruing away from Him. We hope you won’t run away from God. He is looking for you, just like Lisa’s mother was looking for her. As soon as Lisa turned back to go home, her mother found her. As soon as you turn back to God, He will save you. How happy Lisa was when her mother finally found her. You will also be very happy if you only believe that the Lord Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, died on the cross for your sins. Accept Him now as your Saviour. “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

ML-09/20/1981

"With the Mouth"

Have you ever thought how important it is to confess the Lord Jesus now? Have you ever told anyone that you have accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as your own Saviour, while you can?

Mr. Rogers spent all day sitting in a wheelchair, because he could not walk or use his hands. At one time he could ride his bicycle many miles, and he had even won some long bike races. It made him very sad to think about the things he used to be able to do. Now all he could do was sit.

Mr. Rogers also was unable to talk. At one time in his life he could talk and laugh like most of us can. Now a disease and an operation had made it impossible for him to make any voice sounds at all. He could hear when you talked to him, but he could not write and was too old to learn to respond any other way.

Mr. Rogers had two friends that spent a lot of time with him. They talked to him often about the love of the Lord Jesus and how He had died on the cross for his sins. Mr. Rogers would nod his head and smile, but he could not confess the Lord with his mouth. We all hope that he did accept the Lord Jesus as his Saviour. God knows all about Mr. Rogers. He knows if he has accepted the Lord Jesus as his Saviour.

But what about you? You do not have the problems that Mr. Rogers had You can talk. Have you accepted the Lord Jesus as your Saviour? Has He washed your sins away? If so, tell someone that He is your Saviour.

“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. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Romans 10:9,10.

ML-09/20/1981

"Trusted One Million Times"

A drugstore in Galveston, Texas, was open day and night for twenty-six years. At the end of these twenty-six years all the doctors’ prescriptions for medicine, which had been filled by the drugstore, were placed on display in one of the windows. A sign was placed above them which read, “Trusted One Million Times!” People had trusted that drugstore to give them the right medicine one million times.

God has been trusted many millions of times by millions of His children. He has never failed! Surely, we can trust the Lord for all things. “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Romans 8:32.

ML-09/20/1981

The Glory of the Stars

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“When I consider Thy heavens, the work of Thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which Thou hast ordained; What is man, that Thou art mindful of him?” Psalms 8:3,4.

The wonder with which David looked upward on a starry night remained with him as long as he lived. Not many people today see the stars as he did, because of smog, smoke and other pollutants in the atmosphere.

Actually, without a telescope, the human eye can see only about two thousand separate stars. However, when the Milky Way can be seen, about 100 billion stars in it are visible, but they are so far away that no individual one can be picked out. Our relatively small solar system, the sun with its nine plats and moons, is part of the Milky Way galaxy.

But the earth, the sun and the Milky Way are a very small part of the total heavens. Modern telescopes and other means of detection have uncovered an estimated 100 billion galaxies, containing altogether more than 100 billion billion stars. And these are just the ones scientists have discovered. They admit they do not know what lies beyond, and more and more they are acknowledging that this vast display did not “just happen to come into being,” but had to have had a “superior power” to create and control it.

We know that the Lord Jesus Christ is the “Superior Power,” as it is written: “By Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible... all things were created by Him, and for Him: and He is bore all things, and by Him all things consist (are upheld).” Colossians 1:16,17.

The next time you are at the seashore, pick up a handful of sand. Do you think you could count the grains? Astronomers in many lands, respected for their professional skills, claim that The total number of stars in the universe is greater than the number of grains of sand—not in a hundred handfuls, but on all the ocean beaches of the earth!

Who but the divine Creator could put all those stars in space, set them in motion and keep them whirling in their orbits in perfect order? David tells us: “He telleth (counts) the number of the stars; He calleth them all by their names.” Psalms 147:4. Men try to guess the number, but the Lord knows the exact number! Men give names to a few, but the Lord calls each one by name—a reminder of His greatness and untiring interest in all things He has created!

Looking at this spectacular display, it is no wonder David asked, “What is man that Thou art mindful of him?” But God is mindful of everyone, including you, and invites you to share eternity with Him in a glory greater than the starry skies. If you have admitted that you are a sinner and asked Him to wash your sins away in His blood shed on Calvary, you will be with Him forever.

“Happy is he... whose hope is in the Lord his God: which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is: which keepeth truth Forever.” Psalms 146:5,6.

ML-09/20/1981

Mary's Two Bibles

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

Mary was the daughter of a missionary couple in India. She was born in India and lived there until she was six years old. When it was time for her to start to school, her parents sent her back to America to live with her grandmother. Mary’s grandmother was very kind to her and often told her Bible stories and did many things to make her happy.

As Mary learned to read and write, she would send letters back to her parents in India. They sent many letters to her, too, which she loved to receive. At first, her grandmother would have to read them to her. But it wasn’t long before she could read them herself.

One day when she was almost seven, she received a letter from her father. In it he included some money and a note which said, “You will soon be having your seventh birthday, Mary. I have enclosed some money for you to buy yourself a new Bible as your birthday present.”

“That’s just what I wanted!” exclaimed Mary happily.

A few days later, on her birthday, Mary and her grandmother went to a bookstore. They looked at all the different kinds of Bibles. There were big ones and little ones, some had gold edges on the pages, and some had leather covers which cost more. It was hard to make a decision. After looking at them for almost fifteen minutes, Mary told the saleslady how much money she had and asked if it would buy two Bibles.

“Yes, it would,” replied the saleslady, “but not the nice ones you’re looking at.”

Mary’s grandmother heard this and asked, “Mary, why do you want two Bibles?”

“Because I want one for myself and one to send to a girl in India who is my age, so that she may learn about Jesus, too,” answered Mary.

So Mary bought two Bibles. They didn’t have gold-edged pages or soft, leather covers. But the saleslady told Mary, “The inside is just the same!”

As soon as Mary got home, she printed her name in one of them. Her grandmother helped her carefully wrap the second Bible to be sent with a letter to her parents. She thanked them for her Bible and asked them to please give the second Bible to a seven-year-old girl in India.

Mary read her Bible every day and learned more and more of the love of Jesus. Her favorite verse was, “We love Him, because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19. She read in a letter from her father that the second Bible had been given to a seven-year-old girl, just as Mary had asked. Each day Mary prayed for her unknown friend in India, that she also might learn to know all about the love of Jesus and how He had died on the cross for her, too.

Many years later, after Mary finished going to school, she went back to India to be with her father and mother and to help them in their missionary work. Not long after she arrived, she met a young Indian girl and learned that she was a happy Christian.

“How did you learn about the Lord Jesus?” Mary asked her one day.

“When I was seven years old, I was given this Bible,” answered the girl. “I read it and learned how the Lord Jesus loved me and died for me.”

Mary had found her unknown friend! This was the seven-year-old girl who had received Mary’s second Bible and whom Mary had been praying for all these years.

Do you have a Bible? If you will read it, you will learn about God’s love and how He sent His only Son, the Lord Jesus, to die for your sins. If you already know Him as your Saviour, why not do what Mary did—pass on God’s Word to others, so that they can learn of God’s love and be saved.

“Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall not pass away.” Matthew 24:35.

ML-09/27/1981

Guilty - But Set Free

Two young men had been good friends all their lives. They had gone all through grade school and high school together. They even went to the same college and were roommates. One of the men went on to become a lawyer and later became a judge. The other man became a successful businessman.

However, he was not always truthful and honest in his business. He got away with being dishonest for several years, but then it was discovered, and he was arrested.

When it was time for his trial, the businessman was surprised to find that his old friend and roommate had been assigned to his case. The trial began, and many witnesses were called and much proof was given of his dishonesty. Although his lawyers did their best to fight for him, it was soon clear that the businessman had done things which could not be defended.

After several days in trial, the jury left to decide if the businessman were innocent or guilty. They came back and announced he was guilty! When the businessman was called to face the judge to receive his sentence, everyone in the courtroom watched carefully. The past friendship of these two men was well known. They were curious to see what the judge would do to his friend. “Certainly,” they thought, “he will let him off with the smallest sentence.” Even the businessman was sure that being a friend of the judge would help him. But instead of going easy on his friend, the judge fined him the greatest penalty that he could! The judge told his friend that it was very clear that he was guilty and that his crime deserved the greatest fine.

Then, much to the surprise of everyone in the courtroom, the judge got up, took off his robe and walked around to his friend. He took out his checkbook and wrote out a check for the full amount of the fine. He handed the check to his friend saying, “As a judge I had to fine you, because you are guilty. But as a friend I can pay that fine for you. Take this check, give it to the clerk. You’re free!”

Each one of us has been found guilty before God who has said, “All have sinned.” Romans 3:23. Sin must be punished, and the punishment for sin is death: “the soul that sinneth, it shall die.” Ezekiel 18:4. That is the penalty our sins deserve—unending punishment, unending death. But Christ loves us and paid the penalty for our sins by dying for us! Now, if we believe this wonderful fact and accept Him as our Saviour, we are saved. Yes, we are saved from unending punishment and death to live with our precious Saviour in heaven forever!

“Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree.” 1 Peter 2:24.

ML-09/27/1981

Ellen's Pennies

Two little girls, Patty and Ellen, were counting their pennies. Patty said, “I have five pennies.”

Ellen said, “I have ten pennies.”

“No you don’t,” said Patty. “You only have five pennies, just like I have.”

“But,” answered Ellen, “my Day said that when he came home tonight he would give me five pennies, and so I have ten pennies!”

Ellen was counting her money as though the five pennies which her father had promised to give her were already hers. She believed what her father had said. That is called faith.

If each one of us would walk as Christians with faith as simple as Ellen’s, how much happier our lives would be. We have a Father who knows everything about us. He knows what is best for us, loves us with a never-ending love, and has “given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness.” 2 Peter 1:3. Shouldn’t we trust Him for everything?

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.” Ephesians 1:3.

ML-09/27/1981

The Bad-Tempered Camel

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“The multitude of camels... (and) the dromedaries... shall come:... (Their riders) shall show forth the praises of the Lord.” Isaiah 60:6

A camel is not a pretty animal nor is it known for its good behavior. It is one of the most awkward of all domestic animals and among the most difficult to manage. It has several bad habits, such as biting and spitting on strangers. Still, this animal is very useful to desert dwellers, where it is known as the “Ship of the Desert.”

The Arabian Camel, sometimes called a Dromedary, has only one hump, but the Bactrian species has two. These humps serve a very useful purpose. When the animal is well fed, they stand erect and firm. As it travels across the desert, it can absorb the stored-up nourishment in these humps into its system for several days. Then they become flabby, falling to one side. But when it feeds again, they resume their proper shape.

A reservoir of water is provided for this “Ship of the Desert” in the form of two extra stomachs, filled with cells like water jars. Water is stored in these, enabling it to go a week or more without drinking, even in furnace-like heat.

There are so many ways in which the Lord has made special provisions for these large animals! For instance, each foot has two wide, smooth, hard pads, so it can walk easily on the sand. At rest periods it folds its front legs, dropping its forepart to the sand with breast and front knees supporting it. Then it folds its long hind legs, and the whole body drops down. The knees and breast, which would be painfully scraped by the sand in the process, have been provided by the Creator with thick, hard pads for protection.

During sandstorms, men bundle their faces with cloths to survive. But a camel needs no special attention. Its eyes are protected by an extra lid, heavy eyebrows and long lashes, while its large nostrils automatically close to narrow slits to keep the sand out. Then, too, its hair, several inches thick, keeps out the heat of the day, as well as the cold of the night.

The special needs of this peculiar animal were all provided for by an all-wise Creator from the very beginning. Without this care they would never have survived in the harsh deserts.

As we think about how the camel’s every need has been taken care of, it is a reminder that God has made a promise to those who love Him. To those who trust in His Son, the Lord Jesus, He has promised to “supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19. This assures us that there is no limit to what He can do for every boy and girl.

He delights in all His creatures, but to mankind He has made special provisions, not only for this world, but for the world to come. He has given us the promise of eternal life in heaven above to all who know His Son as Lord and Saviour.

Have you accepted this wonderful gift? Have you ever thanked Him for it?

ML-09/27/1981

The Little Stowaway

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

Many years ago, in one of the harbors of England, a ship was being loaded for a long trip. A young boy had been watching the loading of the big ship. As the crew boarded, he quickly decided that he was going to go, too. He was tired of school and tired of his foster home, and had always wanted to go on an adventure. So when nobody was looking, he slipped on board the ship and hid. Soon the whistle blew, and the large cargo ship moved slowly out of the harbor.

The ship had been out to sea for less than a day when the captain and all his crew wished they had never started the trip. They knew before they left port that a tropical storm was approaching. But now the storm had increased in strength and had become a hurricane. The young stowaway boy came out of hiding. He was very sick and very scared. He also wished that he were back home, even back in school.

For hours the ship struggled against the huge waves. Then real problems developed! A leak allowed water to get into one of the ship’s engine rooms, which caused the ship to lose power. Then the steering gear broke, and the ship turned broadside to the waves. Wave after wave broke over the deck and leaked into the other engine rooms, flooding all of them. Everyone knew the ship was in real trouble! To make matters worse, it was being blown toward the rocks along the coast of Wales. They radioed an SOS and their position before the ship struck the rocks. “Abandon ship! Abandon ship!” came the call from the captain.

Quickly, the lifebelts were hand out to each of the crew, and the lifeboats were lowered. One by one the crew jumped into the churning waters and were pulled into one of the lifeboats. Everyone had forgotten about the stowaway on board—everyone, that is, except the captain. When the crew was all safe in the lifeboats, he found the boy crying in one of the ship’s cabins.

The captain put his own lifebelt on the boy, and then lifting him up carried him to the railing of the ship. Still holding the boy, the captain jumped into the raging seas just as a huge wave broke over the ship. The force of the wave tore the boy from the captain’s arms and swept them both away from the waiting lifeboats. The crew, rowing as hard as they could, was able to rescue the boy. But the captain, without a lifebelt, drowned. The kind, brave captain gave up his life to save the stowaway boy.

What was it about the stowaway that brought out the kindness of the captain? The boy shouldn’t have been on the ship at all, and he really deserved to be punished. It was the kindness of the captain’s heart that saved the boy’s life.

Let’s stop a minute and look at the cross of Calvary. There the Lord Jesus Christ gave Himself to die for sinners. By suffering on the cross for our sins He has opened up the gates of heaven. Now we, poor guilty sinners washed clean of our sins, can enter the Father’s home forever.

If the boy had refused the captain’s lifebelt, he would have drowned. If you refuse God’s offer of mercy, you will perish also. Accept His offer of mercy now, and you will be in heaven with the Lord forever.

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

ML-10/04/1981

A Mother Bird's Care

One day I was canoeing down a river in an out-of-the-way part of Canada. I could tell from my map that there was a high waterfall ahead, around which I would have to carry my canoe and supplies.

As I rounded a bend of the river, I could hear the roar of the waterfall, even though I was still 200 yards from it. I slowed the canoe and kept close to the bank of the river as I looked for the portage (trail) around the falls.

I could feel the water was beginning to flow quite swiftly as I searched for the portage. Back-paddling to slow the canoe, I noticed a branch floating by with a young bird clinging to it.

The mother bird was fluttering around, chirping and scolding, trying to get the young one to fly to shore. But it would not leave the branch which was now rushing towards the waterfall. When her fluttering and scolding didn’t do any good, the mother suddenly pushed the young bird off the branch, so that it had to fly to keep from falling into the water. The young bird flew to a tree on the shore where it was safe.

Although what the mother bird did may seem cruel, she saved her young one from going over the falls. How often the Lord works this way, too. Perhaps He has brought unhappiness into your life and you wonder why. What the mother bird did seemed unkind, but it was really the best thing for the young bird. So if some problem makes you turn to the Lord and, as a result, you acknowledge your need of Him as your Saviour and believe Him, it will then be for your good. How much better to have problems and unhappiness if it turns you to the Lord. God has shown His love to us by giving His only Son to die for our sins on Calvary’s cross. There He suffered and died for your sins, and now He waits to save everyone who will come to Him just as they are.

“All these things worketh God oftentimes with man, to bring back his soul from the pit.” Job 33:29,30.

ML-10/04/1981

Help Wanted

Many times I have seen signs that say “Help Wanted.” When I see one of these signs, I often think of two verses in the Bible: “No man can serve two masters” (Matt. 6:24), and “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” Joshua 24:15.

When someone asks about the job that is available, there are usually three things that they want to know about the job: Who will he work for? What kind of work will he be doing? How much will he be paid? Each of these questions is important to be happy with the job.

Now let’s think about these three questions and how they apply to accepting the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour. If you come to the Lord Jesus, will He be a good Master to serve? He certainly will, because “God is love.” 1 John 4:8. And what kind of work will He want you to do? He says, “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:30. It is true, you may be laughed at if you come to Jesus and try to serve Him, but it is a very happy job. And what are His wages or what will you receive? He gives everlasting life as a gift, because He loves you—not as wages or something that you earn by working. When you serve and follow Him, you find that He wants to bless you.

This is very different from the only other master you can have. That master is Satan. If the Lord Jesus Christ is not your Saviour, then you are working for Satan. He is not a kind master, even though he offers all kinds of pleasures to tempt you into following him. His wages are unhappiness and death, followed by an eternity in hell. Turn away from him and turn to the Lord Jesus Christ who loves you! Accept Him as your Saviour. He says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

ML-10/04/1981

A Fish Family from the South

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“Speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee; and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee.” Job 12:8.

In South America there are many kinds of fish, ranging in size from tiny to huge. One of these, a three-inch resident of the Amazon River, is given the difficult name of Aequidens curviceps. It is brightly colored—blue on top, green underneath, with a red border running around its middle, and, to add variety, its fins and tail are yellow.

A pair of these spends much time looking for a place on the stream bottom to produce their young. Once they have chosen a spot, both go to work cleaning away all dirt, pebbles and rubbish. When satisfied that their nest is ready, the female swims slowly over it, laying hundreds of eggs in neat orderly rows. The male follows closely behind her, covering them with a substance called “milt.”

Most fish lay their eggs and then forget about them, but not these parents. One of them always stays close by, constantly fanning the eggs with its fins and occasionally taking each egg in its lips to clean it.

Just four days before the little ones are going to come out of their eggs, the adults get busy scooping saucer-like depressions in the stream bottom. When the babies hatch, the excited parents divide them into groups and lead them away from their birthplace to these new spots. There they are hidden from the eyes of bigger fish which would find them a good meal.

The newly-born fish are nourished for several days by absorbing their egg sacs. But this soon disappears, and the babies have to find their own food. So the tiny fish start swimming away from the nest, perhaps not aware their parents have not yet left. If the babies wander too far away, one of the parents goes after them, picks them up in its mouth and brings them back to home base. There it spits them out and perhaps gives them the idea that they’d better not wander so far away next time. But, of course, eventually they are strong enough and experienced enough to take care of themselves, and then the parents leave them.

What a great variety exists among all of God’s creatures! The Bible tells us that the Lord created all things “for His pleasure,” and it seems He has taken great delight in bringing so many kinds of fish into the world. If evolutionists were right, by now there would be perhaps just one species of fish remaining, because of what they call “survival of the fittest.” But the thousands of varieties of fish throughout the world are proof that their theories are false and foolish. Through the centuries every fish throughout the world has obeyed God’s command to “bring forth after his kind,” and they will continue to do so in the future.

We cannot trust men’s imaginations! The Scriptures speak wisely, saying: “It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” Psalms 118:8.

ML-10/04/1981

Lisa's Operation

Memory Verse: “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

Lisa was a busy nine-year-old. She liked to play softball and kickball or climb trees lots more than playing inside with dolls. But today she was inside leaning on the windowsill looking out, because she was sick. She was tired of just lying in bed listening to her friends playing outside.

It was early in January when the weather was dreary that Lisa got sick. Her mother thought she had the flu, so she put Lisa to bed. “Drink lots of liquid, and get lots of sleep,” her mother had instructed her as she tucked Lisa in bed.

But Lisa’s “flu” didn’t get any better. In fact, as the days went by she just seemed to get a little worse. Her parents were beginning to wonder about this “flu.”

It was the following Saturday afternoon, a week after Lisa had gotten sick, when her daddy twisted his ankle. He was working in the basement on a project when he tripped over some wood. It really hurt. He rubbed it awhile and then went on working, thinking the pain would go away.

The next morning when the family was getting ready to go to Sunday school, Lisa told her mother that she felt lots better. This seemed strange since just the day before she had been quite sick.

“No, I don’t think you had better go to Sunday school today,” her mother said. Lisa was disappointed, but felt happier when her mother suggested, “You stay home and take care of Daddy.” Lisa’s daddy had wakened that morning with his ankle badly swollen. He couldn’t walk on it, so he had to stay in bed. The rest of the family went to Sunday school and meeting.

Although Lisa did her best to “nurse” her daddy’s ankle, by evening it was no better and seemed even worse. Her mother took him to the emergency room of the hospital to have it examined. The doctor discovered that his ankle was broken!

While the doctor was making a cast for the broken ankle, Lisa’s daddy talked to him about Lisa’s strange flu. “One day she’s very sick, and the next day she feels fine,” he explained to the doctor. The doctor looked at Lisa’s parents and announced, “I’m going home with you to examine her. She could have a ruptured appendix. If she does, we’ll have to operate right away!”

Lisa was very surprised to see her daddy come home with a cast on his foot. But she was even more surprised when she saw the doctor come in with them! He poked and pressed around her side, asking Lisa where it hurt. It didn’t take the doctor long to decide her appendix was the problem. He called the hospital and had them get ready for an emergency operation.

Lisa was bundled up, and she and her parents followed the doctor to the hospital. A short time later, Lisa was taken into the operating room to have her appendix removed.

Several days later when she was feeling much better, a family friend visited Lisa in the hospital. He asked her, “If you would have died, would you have gone to be with the Lord Jesus?”

Lisa’s happy answer was, “Oh, yes, I would have.”

The friend smiled and said, “Have you ever told your daddy that you are saved?”

Lisa couldn’t remember if she had, so she called her daddy over and said, “Daddy, did you know that if I would have died, I would have gone to be with Jesus?”

Tears came to his eyes as he patted her on the cheek and said, “Yes, dear, I knew that. But I’m so glad to have you tell me. And it makes the Lord Jesus happy that you have told me.”

How about you? Are you ready to meet the Lord Jesus, like Lisa was, if you should die or when the Lord returns? The Bible says, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31. It also tells us that we shouldn’t put off accepting Him as our Saviour, because “thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” Proverbs 27:1. Don’t wait any longer. Accept the Lord Jesus Christ right now as your Saviour. He loves you even more than your parents do. Because He loves you so much, He died on the cross for you. He suffered there for your sins so that you could be saved. All you have to do is believe that you are a sinner and that the Lord Jesus died for your sins. When you have done this, then tell someone about it. Think how happy your Christian parents, brothers, sisters and friends would be if they knew that you were saved and loved the Lord Jesus. Remember what the Bible says in Romans 10:9 and 10, “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. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

ML-10/11/1981

The Indian Weaver

Someone once said our life is like an Indian rug, and God is the One who weaves it. What did he mean?

Several years ago I visited the southwestern area of the United States. There I saw American Indians weaving colorful rugs with beautiful designs. As I watched them, I began to understand the answer to this question.

The weaver works steadily, weaving the pattern through the strong hemp cords of the rug. It is hard to guess what color will be used next from the beautiful rainbow colors of yarn that they have. The finished pattern is a secret, known only to the weaver. But we can see and admire what has already been woven.

For Christians, those who know the Lord Jesus Christ as their Saviour, this weaving is like your life. You are the hemp cords, and God has chosen the colors for each day that He weaves into your life. Sometimes He uses yellow for sunny, happy days, sometimes red for very important days, or green for healthy, growing days. But sometimes there is gray for lonely days, or black for painful, sad days.

Why has He chosen some gray and black to mix in with the yellow, red and green? God is very wise and knows what is best for each of us. “We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28. If He has given you a gray or black day among all the yellow days, you may be sad or disappointed. But the Lord Jesus has a special reason for choosing that gray or black day for you. You may not understand or even know the reason, but you can thank Him for it, knowing He has chosen that gray or black yarn for your good and for the beauty of the finished design.

If you do not know the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour, you have only weak, rotten cords for God to weave on. A Christian has a new life, or new cords, which is the Spirit of God living in him. This makes a good strong backing for God’s weaving. But anyone who is not saved has only the weak, rotten cords of his sinful life for God’s weaving. Even if He sends yellow, red or green days, what good are they if they are woven through those rotten cords? They would only be used for selfish and sinful reasons. There wouldn’t be a beautiful design to that life. It would have to be destroyed.

God wants to save you from your sins. He wants to give you a new life, which, like good strong cords, can be used to weave in the beautiful design that God has planned for each of us. Let’s stop and think bore grumbling and complaining about what God sends. Are you offering Him good, strong cords or weak, rotten cords with which to weave in the colors of your life?

“If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17.

ML-10/11/1981

The Wise Old Stork

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed times... but My people know not the judgment of the Lord. " Jeremiah 8:7.

The European White Stork, with black wing tips, a red bill and long, red legs, has a striking appearance. Although it migrates every fall, Europe is its real home, where it makes a permanent nest and raises its young. The nests are huge, built on top of chimneys, roofs, or other parts of buildings. Each year, something is added, until they become as tall as a man and as wide as a dining-room table.

Parent birds stay together for a lifetime and are devoted to their little ones, feeding them great quantities of frogs, grasshoppers, mice, etc. On hot days, the parents bring water in their clappers to give the babies a cool drink. They have no real vocal cords, so “talk” by clapping their bills together. But it is easy to tell when they are angry, sad or just expressing pleasant things, by the way they use these clappers. They get along very well with humans and are protected wherever they live. Sometimes they will meet you strolling down a lane. You would think they were almost human, as they nod their heads like wise old men, or tuck their beaks in their chest like absent-minded professors as they stroll along.

Before winter overtakes them, large migrations start. Two routes south are followed: those nesting in Eastern Europe use one that takes them through Turkey, Palestine, over the Sea of Galilee, over Mt. Sinai, into East Africa and then down to South Africa. That is how they are known to the people of Bible lands, because some stop off to stay in that country until springtime. Another group, from Western Europe, make their flight to the same destination, but by a different course, flying over the Rock of Gibraltar, across the Sahara Desert and Congo forests of Africa, to meet the others somewhere along the Nile River and fly with them to the south of that big continent.

But here is the amazing thing: When the urge to make these flights begins to stir them, the little ones start on the 7,000-mile journey without waiting for their parents, who join them later! Although they have never flown these routes before, they have no difficulty reaching their destinations. Can anyone deny that they receive this remarkable ability from their Creator? If they were not guided by Him, certainly they would wander off course and die, but He watches over them with the utmost care.

As our opening scripture states, “the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed time” and will not change it. The rest of the verse is sad when the Lord says, “but My people know not the judgment of the Lord.” The people were not as wise as the birds and failed to follow the counsel of God.

How important for us all to “hear what God the Lord will speak: for He will speak peace unto His people... but let them not turn again to folly (sin).” Psalms 85:8. Do you know the peace of hearing His voice and applying it to your own heart?

ML-10/11/1981

Jennie Carey

Memory Verse: “A prudent man forseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished. Proverbs 22:3

Recently on a vacation trip we passed under an old wooden railroad bridge. It reminded me of the story of Jennie Carey.

Jennie was ten years old and lived in one of the western states. One day as she was playing in a field near her house, she saw smoke coming from the direction of the railroad tracks. She ran over to see where the fire was and found it under the railroad bridge that crossed a deep canyon. The bridge was built of logs and was very old. These logs were burning. Jennie could see that part of the bridge had already burned through. She knew that the bridge was not safe for a train to cross. She also knew that the daily passenger express was due to come by soon. She often would watch it cross the canyon and would wave at the passengers. She knew that she didn’t have time to run for help, so she would have to try to warn the train herself.

Jennie ran up the tracks as fast as she could. She got about one quarter of a mile from the bridge when she saw the train coming around the curve ahead. Standing in the middle of the track, she took off her jacket and frantically waved it up and down. She could not see the engineer, but she was praying that he would see her. As the train roared closer, she waved and yelled as loud as she could. At the last minute she jumped off the track, but kept waving her jacket as the engine rushed by. She heard the squealing of the brakes, which the engineer had already used to slow the train. Then Jennie knew that her warning had been seen. The train stopped just in time—just before the weakened bridge!

Jennie was a real heroine when her bravery was reported. The passengers, train crew and officials all thanked her for her brave act.

Many lives were saved by what she did.

There are many people today who are heading toward eternity by “express.” They close their eyes and ears to all thoughts of danger. When they are warned of the punishment ahead, they turn away laughing and ignore the warning. Think what would have happened to the train’s passengers if the engineer had ignored the warning. He was responsible for his passengers and watched out for their safety. You are responsible for your actions tards God’s warning. He has provided an escape from the penalty that your sins deserve. His own Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, was punished on the cross for the sins of those who will believe in Him. Don’t put it off! Apply the brakes! The warning has been given and there isn’t very much time left. The Lord Jesus is coming back very soon to take everyone who has believed home to heaven with Him. Why not take Him as your own Saviour right now. “A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.” Proverbs 22:3.

ML-10/18/1981

Who Does God Love?

Oh, it was noisy! The 200 children that had come to the hobby-class picnic were hang such a good time. They were all from the city and were so enjoying the trees, grass and all the room to run in the picnic area. Some of the children didn’t have much to be happy about. Some were from broken homes, others were very poor. Saddest of all is that most of them did not know very much about the Lord Jesus Christ and were not saved. Some of them had only heard about Him at the hobby classes.

After a good hot-dog picnic lunch, the children sang some well-known Sunday school songs, and then one of the teachers spoke.

“I am going to ask you two questions. The first question is for the boys, and the second question is for the girls. Now, be ready. Can any boy here tell me if it is bad boys or good boys that God loves?”

Before he had even finished the question, many hands went up and voices shouted, “Good, good, good!”

Looking over at the girls the teacher asked, “Well, now, can any girl tell me how many good boys are here?”

The girls looked over to where most of the boys were sitting. No one spoke. Finally one little girl whispered, “None.”

“How do you know that?” asked the teacher.

“Because the Bible says so,” came the reply.

“Yes,” said the teacher. “In the Bible we read in Romans 3:12 That ‘There is none that doeth good, no, not one.’ If it were only good boys and girls that God loves, there would be no one that He could love. All of us are sinners, and unless we are saved we will never go to heaven. Every boy and girl in the world needs to be saved, and this comes only by accepting the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour. Now, what do we have to do?”

“Pray,” called one of the boys. “For what?” asked the teacher. “To be saved and get to heaven,”

the boy answered.

“And are you sure that will take you there?” asked the teacher. But the boy did not answer.

“Can any girl tell me, who does God love?” the teacher asked, turning again to the girls.

“Sinners,” came the answer. “And who is a sinner?”

“All of us,” came the answer.

“That’s it!” exclaimed the teacher. “Everyone is a sinner—boys and girls, fathers and mothers, too. God loves everyone!”

“Now another question: Was it good children or bad children that Christ died for?”

“Sinners," was the answer again.

“Yes, now you’re getting it. And who is it that Jesus saves?” he asked.

“Sinners who believe on Him,” came the answer from a girl about 12 years old.

“How do you know that?” the teacher asked the girl who had answered.

“Because Jesus says so,” she replied.

“Yes, that’s it,” said the teacher. “We read in John 3:16 that ‘Whoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.’ "

Turning to the children again he said, “Each of you knows that you are a sinner. The Lord Jesus Christ died on the cross for sinners. Each one of you can be saved by accepting Him right now into your hearts as your Saviour. Don’t wait any longer! Accept Him now!”

The meeting came to a close and most of the children ran off to play more games. The teacher went up to the 12-year-old girl who had answered correctly and asked her if she were saved. He learned she had trusted in Jesus as her Saviour just two weeks before and she was very happy.

Each of you reading this should right now ask yourself if you are saved. God loves you so much He sent His Son Jesus to die on the cross to save you. Like this girl, will you trust Him? If so, you will be saved and be happy, too.

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

ML-10/18/1981

Who Likes Snakes?

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“And the Lord God said unto the serpent... upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life.” Genesis 3:14.

God was displeased because Satan, disguised as a serpent (or snake), had deceived Eve and brought sin into the world. He pronounced the curse in Genesis 3:14 as a constant reminder of that time.

There are over 2500 species of snakes. About one-tenth of them are poisonous. They range from a ten-inch blind snake to great Anacondas and Pythons in the tropics, thirty to forty feet long, that can swallow a deer or wild pig whole.

A snake would be handicapped without ears, nose, feet, legs, hands or arms, except that God has shown His kindness. In spite of the curse, God has provided them with means of getting along without these aids. In place of ears they have nerves that are sensitive to ground vibrations. Their sense of smell (aided by a flocking tongue) is keen. A change in temperature tells them when something is near, and they can easily locate it even on the darkest night.

They have flexible vertebra (backbone) which enables them to writhe, crawl and coil. Scales on the underpart of their body, overlapping like shingles, provide means of moving over the ground. Each one hooks onto a rough surface, so it can pull itself along. When in a hurry, it presses against rocks, tree trunks, etc., to thrust itself forward.

A snake’s mouth is fitted with hinged jaws, joined with elastic ligaments, so it can open very wide and swallow objects of great size. Eggs are a favorite and by unhinging their jaws they can swallow eggs without breaking them until they are well inside their bodies. Their stomachs also have a special ability to digest shells, bones, feathers, fur, etc.

A snake never stops growing. It increases in size, and when its skin becomes too tight it makes a hole in it by rubbing its snout against a rough stone. Pushing its head through this hole, twisting and wriggling, it peels the old skin back over its tail, shedding it. It does this several times a year.

Snakes do not attack humans unless frightened or provoked. Their main purpose is to find food. The Creator has made them helpful to mankind in their search for food, because they eat rats, gophers, mice, etc. A small snake will be quite content with a good meal every week or ten days. The bigger ones can easily survive on six or seven big dinners a year.

Man, too, displeases God in his behaviour. This is made clear in the Scriptures, which say, “There is none that seeketh after God... there is none that doeth good, no, not one.” Romans 3:11,12. Yet God shows great mercy and kindness to all mankind, as His Word tells us: “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” 1 John 4:10. Do you know the joy of having your sins forgiven through faith in His Son?

ML-10/18/1981

Stuck in a Well

Memory Verse: “Deliver him from going down to the pit: I have found a ransom.” Job 33:24

Six-year-old Alfredo Rampi was visiting at his grandparents’ house when the accident happened. While playing in the field near the house, he fell into an open well. He was not found for several hours and then only after search parties heard his faint cries. The well opening was only 18 inches wide and narrowed to 12 inches, but it was very deep. Alfredo had fallen down the slippery, muddy well shaft. Down, down, down he slipped. The more he struggled, the farther down he slipped. Finally, he stopped sliding 120 feet below the surface.

Rescue equipment arrived quickly after Alfredo was found. Many attempts were made to lower ropes and hooks to the trapped boy. But Alfredo could not reach or even see the hooks, so these attempts failed.

The rescuers dug another shaft parallel to the well. Then a cross shaft was dug to the well. A cave expert named Claudio slithered down the opening of the rescue shaft. He started lowering himself head first at about midnight-53 hours after Alfredo had fallen into the well. He made his way down the rescue shaft dug by the rescuers and through the cross shaft. But his shoulders were too wide to squeeze all the way through the cross shaft into the well where Alfredo was stuck. Claudio worked for over an hour trying to squeeze through. Exhausted, he had to give up.

Another expert cave explorer named Angelo then tried. He had a smaller body and was able to squeeze through to the well shaft. He discovered that Alfredo had slipped another 80 feet down the well. Angelo finally worked his way down to where Alfredo was stuck between the slippery walls.

Angelo reported on his walkie-talkie that he had reached the boy. When this news was heard, cheers came from the thousands of people who were now gathered at the site. “Hook him up! Hook him up!” firemen yelled over the walkie-talkie. Angelo worked as hard as he could, but Alfredo kept slipping in the mud beyond his reach. After an hour’s struggle Angelo, mud-caked and gasping for air, was hauled back to the surface. He had tried, but had also failed.

There are millions in this world who are slipping down in sin just like Alfredo continued to slip down deeper in the well. The problem with most of these people is that they don’t know that they are in trouble. Satan has blinded them to what sin is and what the results of a sinful life are. Before they can be rescued from their sins, they have to realize that they are sinners. Once they know this, then they must admit that they can’t help themselves, that they are hopelessly stuck. This is very hard for most people to admit—that they can’t help themselves. Each one seems to have his own special way of trying to please God and get to heaven. But God has said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” John 14:6. You must come God’s way or not at all.

Using six different cave experts, many rescue attempts were made to reach Alfredo. All failed. They could get to him, but a slippery coating of mud prevented them from attaching rescue equipment to the child’s outstretched arms. The last of the rescuers reported that Alfredo’s arms were “stiff and cold.” When it became apparent that he had died, all further attempts to reach him were stopped.

The rescue of Alfredo Rampi had failed! It was not because he didn’t know he was trapped or didn’t want to be rescued. It was due to the inability of the rescuers to reach him.

How wonderful to know that the One who can rescue sinful man is completely able. But there are those who are still trying various other ways to save themselves. They are playing with danger!

Admit that you are helpless and cannot save yourself. Call to God, asking Him to save you. The work has already been done. The Lord Jesus loves you so much He died on the cross, shed His blood, and was punished for your sins so that you can be saved. All you have to do is accept His love by believing that He suffered and died for your own sins. Don’t put it off. The longer you wait, the further you slip into the shaft of sin. Why not accept Him right now as your Saviour?

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

ML-10/25/1981

Pass the News

Many children enjoy watching birds, and what an interesting part of God’s creation they are! The Bible tells us that God knows when a sparrow falls, so we know He cares for them.

I have especially enjoyed watching the sea gulls sailing so smoothly through the air. One summer while we were near a lake, we put food out on a rock for the gulls to eat. Very soon one gull flew over, circled over the food several times, then sailed high into the sky and flew away. In just a few minutes several gulls returned to circle the rock. Finally they landed and eagerly ate the food we had thrown there.

Just as the one gull seemed to go tell his friends about the good food he had found, we can tell our friends about the good news that we have. Let us share with them the way of salvation through believing in the Lord Jesus Christ. “O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.” Psalms 34:8.

ML-10/25/1981

On the Wrong Train

I was seated on a train in the commuter station in Chicago. The car I was in was filling fast with businessmen anxious to return to their homes after a day of work in the city. It was a regularly-scheduled express commuter which only stopped at certain places. Just before the train started, a young man sat down beside me. As the train pulled out of the station he turned to me and said, “This train stops at Morton Grove, doesn’t it? I’m visiting here, and I have friends who are to meet me at the Morton Grove station.”

“No, I’m sorry, it doesn’t,” I answered. “You should have asked before you got on. This is an express train. It goes straight through to Glenview without stopping anywhere else.”

He looked worried for awhile, but then seemed to relax. I said to him, “Morton Grove is the next town, but I’m sure the train isn’t going to stop.” He got up, walked to the front of the car and waited. As he anxiously looked out the window, the name “Morton Grove” flashed by while the train roared past the station. All he saw was a brief glimpse of the station and platform as we went by.

He was on the wrong train for sure. His friends were waiting for him at Morton Grove. The same train that was taking me to where I wanted to go was each moment tang him farther away from where he wanted to go.

Each one of us is a traveler hurrying on to somewhere. Those who are saved are hurrying onward and upward to be with the Lord Jesus Christ. Those who are not saved are hurrying onward and downward to never-ending darkness. If you are an unsaved child of Christian pants, your house has people going to two different places. Your father and mother are getting nearer and nearer to heaven, while you are getting nearer and nearer to hell.

If you come to the Lord Jesus Christ now and accept Him as your own Saviour, you will also be on your way to heaven.

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

ML-10/25/1981

Look Out - A Rattler!

The Wonders of God’s Creation

In the last issue we considered snakes in general. Here are some added details about one that is common in N. America.

“The wicked are estranged... speaking lies. Their poison is like the poison of a serpent.” Psalms 58:3. 4.

Rattlesnakes, 47 kinds of them, are common throughout North America. The largest and deadliest, the Eastern Diamondback, is as much as eight feet long and as big around as a man’s forearm. It is one of a group known as “Pit Vipers,” so named from two cone-shaped pits located in front of each eye and below them. These are sensitive to heat radiated from animals, and this is how it locates them in the dark. Dung daylight it depends more on keen sight and smell with its flicking tongue helping to pick up odors.

Almost everything is an enemy of the Rattler, including many large birds and animals and even some snakes that attack and eat it, so its life is not an easy one. In Proverbs 13:15 we are told “the way of transgressors is hard,” and in Galatians 6:7 the Scripture says: “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Many a boy and girl whose life is full of rebellion has found this to be very true. How happy it is when they express this prayer: “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalms 51:10.

The first “button” on the snake’s rattle grows about ten days after birth, and a new one is added each time it sheds its skin. Usually this happens as much as six or eight times a year.

The Rattler’s reputation is worse than it deserves. Its main interest in life is to find food, and it does this as quietly as possible. It prefers to hide when a large animal or a human comes along. Unless taken by surprise or provoked, it will seldom attack them. But when surprised, it coils its body and is so tense that its tail vibrates rapidly, making the buttons “rattle.” Its action in striking is so fast, the human eye cannot follow it. With its mouth wide open, two long, hollow teeth get into position, the flesh covering them automatically pulls back. These fangs, piercing the flesh, put poison in the wound. Small creatures die quickly. Larger animals seldom die, but have severe pain and learn to stay away from these serpents. When humans are bitten, a medicine (anti-venin) serum) is available in every section of the country. Without this medicine, severe pain and even death could result.

Although Rattlesnakes do a great deal of good in killing rats, mice, gophers and other harmful rodents, and although God has provided many special features for them, they still are vicious creatures. We are remind that the Bible refers to our great enemy as “that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world.” Revelation 12:9. But the Lord Jesus, who gave His life on Calvary and destroyed the works of the devil, will turn all who believe on Him “from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins.” Acts 26:18. Have you been delivered from the power of Satan’s darkness and been brought into the wonderful light of Christ’s salvation?

ML-10/25/1981

The Adventure

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

“Hurry,” said Patty, “let’s get some food and a blanket and walk to my Grandma’s house. Maybe we can get there for supper.”

“Let’s not tell our mothers, and then we will just surprise your Grandma when we get there,” continued Susan.

So the two little girls ran into the kitchen, found a paper bag and stuffed sugar cookies and two apples inside. Then they tiptoed into Patty’s bedroom, pulled out a blanket and sneaked out the front door and down the farm lane. Patty lived in the country, but her grana lived in town six miles away—so for two small girls this was quite an adventure.

The two girls were having a happy time, laughing and chatting as they walked along the dirt road.

“Maybe we should have told our mothers that we were walking to town,” suggested Patty.

“Oh, no,” answered Susan, “they would probably have told us that we couldn’t go. Besides, it’s more fun to go without anyone knowing, all on our own.”

And so they forgot about their worried mothers at home who had no idea where their two little girls were.

Are you like Patty and Susan who only wanted their own way? If we have accepted the Lord Jesus as our Saviour and Lord, God wants us to follow His will for our lives. “In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:6.

If you, as a Christian, are going your own way, we pray that you will soon realize that it is not a good path. How much better if we delight to know the way of the Lord. (See Isaiah 58:2.)

Soon Patty and Susan became hot and tired, so they sat down in a sugar beet field to eat their cookies. The cookies didn’t last very long, so they had to get up and start walking again.

In the meantime, back at the house their mothers were getting quite worried. They discovered that their two girls were missing, and they began searching the house, yard and barns to find the girls. Soon, however, they realized that the girls must have wandered away from home. They called Susan and Patty’s names, but there was no answer.

Hopping into a car, the mothers began driving down the country roads searching for the girls. Soon they came across two very tired, lonely little girls sitting at the edge of a field.

Patty and Susan were so relieved and happy to see their mothers that they were quite willing to ride back home for supper. Although the girls thought they were enjoying themselves when they began their adventure, doing what they wanted to do, actually they were far happier to be safe at home with their mothers.

Patty and Susan were walking away from those who really loved them. They thought it would be fun, and it was, for awhile. But soon they found out that being away from those who loved them was no fun at all.

God loves you so much that He gave His only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to die for you. If you don’t know the Lord Jesus as your own Saviour, why not accept Him right now? He loves you and wants to save you and take care of you. But He can’t if you don’t trust in Him and believe that it is only His blood that can make you clean from all sin. Then as a Christian He will guide you every day in a path through this life that will be pleasing to Him, if you will let Him.

But even as Christians we can get away from the Lord Jesus and do things that do not please Him. Then God may have to bring unhappiness into our lives to make us see our wrong path. To know God’s way for us we should read His Word, the Bible, and ask Him each day to guide us. If we keep close to Him, He will show us the right path.

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

ML-11/01/1981

I Can't Get It Own!

Steve was seven years old when his family visited a farm one summer. He loved to look around and explore. It wasn’t long before he discovered an outside cellar door propped open with a stick. Peering inside, he could see stairs that led down into the cool cellar. Without thinking twice he went down the steps and started exploring the cellar.

Steve was busily looking around when all of a sudden there was a loud bang. The stick had slipped, and the cellar door had shut! He ran up the steps and tried to push up on the door. With his arms over his head he pushed and pushed, but the door was too heavy for him to open. He was really scared now because it was dark, and he wondered how long it would be until someone found him. He started banging on the door and calling for help. “Help!

Help! Get me out of here,” yelled Steve. After what seemed like a long time to Steve, his father heard the banging and yelling. He went to the cellar door and lifted it to let Steve out.

Steve had been trapped and did not have enough strength to free himself. If you do not know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, you are trapped too, but not in a cellar. Satan has you trapped in your sins and is leading you to an eternity in hell. But God, in His great love to sinners, has provided a way of escape. The Lord Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, suffered on the cross for the sins of everyone who will believe and accept Him as their Saviour. Like Steve, do you know that you are trapped? Just call for help, like Steve did. Steve’s father loved him very much. When his father heard him calling for help, he quickly came and lifted the door to free him. God loves us even more and tells us in the Bible, “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37. God wants you to realize that you are helpless, because you don’t have the strength to save yourself. When you see this, then He can shower His love on you.

“When we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.” Romans 5:6.

ML-11/01/1981

The Trapped Cat

It was dark the night that Buffie wandered out to the field near his home. This was the field where he chased mice, ran after butterflies and spent hours in the sunshine, so he knew his way around. But, unknown to Buffie, this night was different—a trap had been set in the field to catch a gopher.

How often we find ourselves in situations where there are dangers. Often we do not know the danger is even there. Yet, for those of us who know the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour, we have His promise that He is with us in every danger: “Lo, I am with you alway.” Matthew 28:20.

In the middle of the night, the farmer awakened hearing strange noises. Poor Buffie had caught his foot in the trap that the farmer had set, and the cat had dragged the trap all the way home! He seemed to know where to go for help when he was in real trouble, and the farmer did not fail him. Buffie was quickly freed from the trap without any permanent damage to his foot.

Unless we know the Lord Jesus as our Saviour, we are caught in the trap of sin and cannot free ourselves. We do not know how long Buffie wandered around before he awakened the farmer, but we do know that the farmer released him right away. We do not have to wander in sin, hoping the Lord will release us. The minute we call to the Lord He will save us from our sins. “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

How good it is to know that after we are saved, the Lord Jesus goes on caring for us in our difficulties. “Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.” Psalms 50:15.

Buffie was not able to thank the farmer for releasing him from the trap, but he must have been very glad to be rid of it. Let us thank the Lord today for saving us from our sins and caring for us every day. “Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.” 2 Corinthians 9:15.

ML-11/01/1981

A Woodland Grave Digger

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“The eyes of all wait upon Thee; and Thou givest them their meat in due season.” Psalms 145:15.

If you visit country fields or camp in wooded areas, you may have wondered why you so seldom see dead animals or birds. One reason is that many of them are eaten by other animals and birds.

But there is another quite interesting reason why many small dead bodies disappear. A black beetle, about 1 to 11/2 inches long when full-grown and with bright orange markings on its wings, acts as an undertaker whenever it can. It is called the “Sexton Beetle.” This active little insect’s sensitive antennae search out the odor of a dead mouse, bird, snake or other dead creatures. Approaching the carcass (dead body), it inspects it carefully with its feelers. Satisfied that it is dead, it begins a peculiar routine.

It first crawls under the carcass, going back and forth from front to back, apparently measuring it. Then it seems to lose interest, because it leaves and explores the surface of the ground nearby, occasionally returning to look over the carcass. It finds a suitable area and digs several holes, loosening the soil and carrying it off to one side. This is the start of the grave digging.

Without bothering to rest, it returns to the animal and begins heaving and tugging the carcass toward this grave. Having moved it an inch or so, it looks it over again and returns to enlarge the hole. Then back to its prize and soon off again to make the hole a little bigger. This process goes on for several hours.

As other beetles are attracted to this activity, it chases away all the other males. But if a female shows up, it allows her to help him. Between them they push and pull the limp body toward the pit. After several hours they get it to the edge of its final resting place. Then they push the carcass into the hole, and dirt is scraped back in to cover it. They leave one side uncovered with enough space left for them to move around easily.

Then the female lays eggs next to the dead body. While waiting for the eggs to hatch, the parents feed on the carcass. After the newly hatched grubs appear, the adults feed them from the carcass until they can take care of themselves, and then the parents leave. Hover, they leave tunnels in the soil so the grubs can find their way to the surface after they mature and become grave diggers themselves.

Isn’t this an interesting way in which the Creator has arranged for the disposal of dead bodies that otherwise would become very unpleasant? It is another example of His wisdom in all that He has created. But He has done something far greater than this. His death on Calvary has atoned for the sins of all who trust in Him, so they can share heaven with Him for eternity.

Are you included in those who have come to Him, admitting you are a helpless sinner? Have you thanked Him for dying for you and taken Him as your Lord and Saviour?

ML-11/01/1981

Snowbound!

Memory Verse: “He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him.” Hebrews 7:25

Everyone was excited that day in the schoolhouse in the small prairie town. Just before noon, an early winter storm had swept in with snow and a howling wind that whipped about the eaves, causing weird moanings and buzzing vibrations. Surely school would be dismissed soon so that the buses could get the farmers’ children safely home!

Yes, it wasn’t long before the buses were lining up in front of the school. Anxious-faced teachers hustled the children out and onto the buses as the wind tore at their coats. Was it even now too late? The weather report warned of blizzard conditions.

Jud Adams had a route out on the open prairie. Soon it would be heavily drifted with snow. If only that wind would let up! He did his expert best, but before long his bus “No. 4" was stuck in a bank of snow. All his efforts to free the bus were in vain. The storm was almost unbelievable—heavy snowfall, extreme cold and violent wind. Help must come, and soon, or they would all freeze to death. Jud left twelve-year-old Allan Simpson in charge with instructions to keep the motor running for heat from the heater. Then brave Jud started out for help.

Allan did his best to keep the younger children from worrying. He told stories, comforted the frightened ones, teased and joked endlessly to keep the children’s spirits up. The bitter cold wind was driven into the old bus in hundreds of tiny places. At last the motor coughed and stopped. Allan could not get it to start again. What was he to do now? Allan collected books and papers. In the driver’s tin box, he found some matches. All the children had little tin lunch pails. He emptied some of these and crammed in crumpled papers. He kept several little fires burning as long as he could. Hours had gone by, yet no help came. The icy cold was reaching in to the little ones who, one by one, had quit crying and wanted only to go to sleep. Allan knew they would die if they went to sleep. Up and down the aisle he went, deliberately picking fights—slapping, pinching, setting one against another—anything to make them move and stay awake!

How his brave heart leaped with joy when at last help came! The children were all saved alive, but their friend Jud, the bus driver, died in the snow. When the bus was late, anxious parents sent out the snowplow and tractor.

You will be happy to know that Allan received a unique and wonderful reward for his wise and brave part. President Hoover heard of the young hero and sent Allan a personal invitation to visit him at the White House. Allan received congratulations and a “well done” from the Commander-in-Chief of the United States!

Would you some day like to have such a reward, a “well done, good and faithful servant,” from the very Lord of heaven and earth? To every true Christian Jesus Christ is Commander-in-Chief. But can you truthfully say that you are one of His very own? The children on the bus had to be kept awake and moving in order to escape death by freezing.

Sometimes we must be shaken up and shocked into knowing that we are sinners ready to perish. Once we are awakened, then we can be rescued from eternal death. God says again and again in the Bible that sinners cannot come into heaven without having their sins washed away by the blood of the Lord Jesus. He also says, “There is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12. Jud Adams was willing, but not able to save his busload of children. But Jesus Christ is "... able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him.” Hebrews 7:25.

ML-11/08/1981

One Step to Eternity

Some of you will remember the story about Enok Jackson. He had gone with his father on skis over the snow to a home where two evangelists preached the Word of God. He listened, believed it and was saved through faith in Christ and His work on the cross.

At the time of this story, Enok was a grown man, married and living on a little farm about forty miles from his home town in Sweden. A few miles from his farm was a large lake with an island having many birch trees. The owner sold the island to Enok who planned to cut down the trees and sell them in the nearby town.

Perhaps you are wondering how he would get the trees from the island to the town. That was easy, he just waited until the lake froze over in the winter. Then he drove on the ice with his big sled pulled by a team of horses. The ice had to be eighteen to twenty inches thick before it was safe to do this. When he was sure that it was safe, he began his work. It was hard work through the long winter, but the day finally came when the last load of wood was sold, and he turned his team of horses toward home. It felt good to have that job finally finished.

As he passed by a neighbor’s farm, he was invited to stop in for some refreshments and to give the horses a rest. He accepted this invitation. After a while he thanked them and left to continue on his way home.

It soon got dark and began to snow heavily. It was snowing so hard he could hardly see where he was going. This was not a problem, because God has given a wonderful sense to animals like horses to know where home is even when they cannot see their way clearly. So Enok let the horses follow their sense of direction. He trusted in God his Father to take care of him, and He did!

It was about an hour to his home. The horses took off at a full trot. Everything seemed to go along all right for about forty-five minutes. Then suddenly the horses began to slow down to a slow walk, and then they stopped. They were on a frozen lake now, and Enok did not know what was wrong. Suddenly he remembered that there was one spot in the lake where a spring flowed that did not freeze over at any time. Enok could not see ahead or to either side. Slowly, he walked carefully ahead of the horses. As he did a thought came to him—“I don’t know what is ahead, but my God and Father knows.” So he prayed, “Oh, Father, help me.” As soon as he prayed to God, he saw something dark just ahead of him. It was open ice water! If his team had not stopped, both he and the horses would have fallen into that dark, icy water and drowned! Truly, he was “one step to eternity!”

He carefully backed up his horses, and then gave thanks to the Father for saving his life. In fifteen minutes he was safely at home. When he entered the house, he found his wife in earnest prayer for him. God had heard their prayers and answered wonderfully.

It is wonderful that as Christians, knowing the Lord Jesus Christ as our own Saviour, we can trust Him for everything. Every step of our lives, every decision can be turned over to Him. But if we don’t know Him as our Saviour, then we are going on in our own way without God. He loves you and wants you to be His child. Wouldn’t you like to have God as your Father and Guide? You also may be only “one step to eternity!” If you want to be guided by Him, you must come His way. That way is through the Lord Jesus. Confess that you are a sinner and accept Him as the only way to be saved. The Bible says in John 14:6, “I (Jesus) am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” Then He promises to be with you forever.

“All that the Father giveth Me shall come to Me; and him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

ML-11/08/1981

The Little Dipper Bird

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works. All Thy works shall praise Thee, O Lord.” Psalms 145:9,10.

An appealing little bird is the Water Ouzel, or Dipper bird, which is about the size of a robin and has bluish-gray, waterproof feathers. It lives mostly in the Sierra Mountains of California, the Cascade Mountains of Oregon and Washington and the mountains of British Columbia. Along a swiftly flowing stream with white-water cascades, rapids and waterfalls, where trees grow to the water’s edge, you might get a glimpse of it. However, it is well hidden among the rocks, shadows and foliage and so is difficult to find.

The life of the Dipper bird is spent near these mountain streams. It is very cheerful, with no distinctive tune, but full of happy sounds. It sings these happy calls regardless of what the weather may be, just as though it wants its Creator to know how happy it is. It flies rapidly over its watery homeland, following the stream’s course and never taking a shortcut between bends as most birds do. A waterfall is its greatest delight, flying through the spray or darting behind it. Just for fun it will float down right over a waterfall or rapids, then fly upstream and do it all over again.

Of course it cannot spend all its time this way. Like all birds it must keep busy finding food, which for the Dipper bird comes almost entirely from the bottom of the stream, usually in shallow areas, but sometimes down deep. It eats all kinds of waterbugs, other insects and is especially fond of mosquito larvae and periwinkles. It catches these larvae by walking along the bottom of the stream with its body completely covered by water. Griing the rock bottom with its strong feet and working its wings like oars, it can walk through strong currents safely.

Finished with underwater food gathering, it will suddenly pop out of the water, fly to a rock or log and burst into song again. It nods and curtsies, bobbing up and down, as it sings. This is where it got its name of Little Dipper.

No canyon is too dark or isolated for it, just so there is a waterfall nearby. The male and female build their nest together in the springtime by the waterfall. It is made of moss, woven into an oven-like shape. It is usually placed on the ledge of a rock where spray from the water keeps it moist. Ferns grow up and surround it, concealing it from enemies.

Just as God watches over the lowly sparrow and not one falls to the ground without His knowing it (Matt. 10:29), so He watches over this lonely, but cheerful, Little Dipper. He provides for all its needs and gives it the ability to carry on its unusual way of life.

And we are assured of His care over us, too. In a more special way, our Saviour has said to those who love Him: “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper.” Hebrews 13:5,6. Do you know Him as your Saviour, and do you thank Him for this loving care, watching over you every moment of your life?

ML-11/08/1981

Brought Through the Storm

Memory Verse: “Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.” 2 Corinthians 9:15

The loaded cargo ship pulled away from the San Francisco pier on a beautiful fall morning. It was starting on a four-week journey to the South Pacific. There it would be unloaded and then reloaded with goods to be brought back to the United States. This was a routine trip for the sailors that were on this ship. There were times, however, when they became aware of their helplessness in the face of the forces of nature.

As the sunny days passed, there were no thoughts of problems in the sailors’ minds. However, when the ship was about 600 miles off the California coast, a storm sprang up, and the ship’s engines broke down. Suddenly, they had big problems!

On the lowest deck of the ship, two large tractors were tied down. Each of these weighed several tons.

As the ship rolled and tossed in the storm with no engines to direct its course, one of the tractors broke loose and began rolling from side to side, crashing into the side of the ship with each roll. Although the sailors tried to tie it down again, it kept breaking loose. They finally gave up and told the captain that it was too dangerous to try to tie down the tractor.

Their problems continued to get worse. The loose tractor crashed into the second tractor, loosening it. Now both tractors rolled back and forth as the ship rolled in the huge waves. The storm was still raging, and the weight of the tractors would break through the side of the ship in a very short time.

As these thoughts rushed through the captain’s mind, he knew nothing could be done with the storm still raging and the engines not working. He called to his crew members and told them they all must pray. The crew gathered tether, and each one prayed to the Lord of the universe to save them from certain death.

God, in His goodness, heard these desperate cries, and He calmed the storm. It was safe then for the Coast Guard to approach the ship and tow it back into port.

The ship, captain and crew members reached the port safely. But when the incident was discussed later, no credit was given to God. None of the crew stopped to thank God for saving them from the terrible storm.

There is another storm that God has made calm through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. It is not the kind of storm that causes ships to be tossed on waves. It is the kind of storm that is caused by sin, because God hates sin. But because God loves us so much, He sent the Lord Jesus to die on the cross. All His hatred of sin was put on the Lord Jesus instead of you—if you take Him as your Saviour. Have you accepted the calming of this awful storm from God? Have you asked the Lord Jesus to be your Saviour? If you have not, then you will be punished for your own sins! “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.

Why not take the Lord Jesus as your own Saviour right now and be free of the punishment that must come on anyone who is not sheltered by Him.

“God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:17.

ML-11/15/1981

David Listens

Although there was two feet of snow on the ground when David walked the two miles to his friend Richard’s house, it was not snowing now. In fact, the air was really quite warm for a day in December.

It was cozy and warm in Richard’s home, and the two boys had lots of fun playing games. Richard’s mother made popcorn—the really “special” corn that they had planted in their very own garden plot. How good it tasted with plenty of home-churned, melted butter poured over it! It is no wonder that David decided to play another game instead of hurrying home. But at last he was bundled up to go and stepped out the door into—a big surprise! Everything was covered with another thick blanket of snow. He realized that his mother would be worried since it was late. But trying to hurry in the deep, soft snow was impossible.

“The school bus will never make it through tomorrow morning, either,” he thought as he trudged along in the snow. Then David became aware of the quiet beauty around him. There was plenty of light from the glistening whiteness of the snow and not a breath of wind. How lovely the trees and bushes looked! Like dainty white feathers, the large snowflakes softly floated down. He lost his worry about getting home quickly. Suddenly David stopped to listen. Why did he listen? He hardly knew, but a quietness he could feel crept over him. A certain warm glow filled him, and he knew he would be safe. “I am all alone, but somehow I don’t feel alone,” he thought. As he started home again David knew he would always remember those moments in the lovely, pure, fresh snow. He would remember them as a precious little secret between himself and God.

What was it that ten-year-old David had enjoyed that evening? Perhaps it was a wordless sermon from the “gospel according to creation.” It is the only “gospel” that many people in far-off places have ever heard—“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth His handiwork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.” Psalms 19:1-3. God expects men to see and hear the message given—that God is great and powerful and good. He expects love and glory to be given in return to Him.

But David did not live in one of those “far-off places” that has not heard about the Lord Jesus Christ. He had a Bible and knew that he was a sinner. His Sunday school teacher had spoken to him about the Lord Jesus. But David was not saved, because he had never taken the Lord Jesus as his Saviour. He knew that his own heart was not clean, so unlike the white snow around him. There was no real peace in his heart.

It was not until many years later that the hand which seemed to hold David that night drew him into the full light—“the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” 2 Corinthians 4:6. He learned from God’s very own book, the Bible, that he could have complete and everlasting peace. “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1. David listened again. Jesus Christ was the One who spoke, and the worlds were formed. Now Jesus Christ is grown-up David’s special, loving Friend. All who put their faith in Him cannot be more safe and secure. When David really understood that his very Creator came to earth and “was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities” (Isa. 53:5), how could he refuse such love? Rest yourself in those strong, nail-pierced hands. “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” Isaiah 1:18.

ML-11/15/1981

A Slippery One - The Eel

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“Ask now... and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee.” Job 12:7,8.

Although they look like snakes, eels are really a fish, but they are cored with a slippery coating rather than with scales. The males prefer to spend most of their lives in rivers near the ocean, while the females go upriver to streams or lakes.

After two or three years in fresh water, both males and females head for the ocean. Those in landlocked lakes (lakes with no water route to the ocean) have a difficult time starting their journey. First they gather in great numbers at the lake shore. Then they leave the lake, wriggling their way for a day or two across fields and ground wet with rain or dew (this is where their slippery bodies are useful). They head for a stream that leads to the ocean. God has equipped them with special gills to keep enough moisture while out of water on this part of their trip.

When they reach a stream that leads to the ocean, they swim downstream, joining others on the way. Many of them are caught in traps set by people who like to eat them. The eels that make it to the ocean, both males and females, start a long migration to the Sargasso Sea near Bermuda. Here many miles of seaweed floats on the ocean. This is teeming with food which will pride for the needs of baby eels that will soon appear. In the Sargasso Sea, American eels, which have taken up to a year to make the trip, meet with European eels, whose journey takes much longer. They mix together like old friends, but never crossbreed. Soon the females deposit thousands of eggs deep below the ocean surface, after which both the male and female die.

When the babies hatch they are about one-quarter inch long, thin as a leaf and transparent (see through). They rise to the surface where they feed for about a year. Then the American eels begin the long trip back to the home of their parents. The European eels remain another year to gain strength for their journey which will take about three years. When both species reach the streams from which their parents left, they are still transparent, but are long and round and are called Elvers. Just like their pants, the males remain at the mouth of the stream and the females go inland—the cycle continuing just as God designed it.

How can these little inexperienced eels reach their destinations with no parents to guide them? The answer is exactly what Scripture tells us of every creature in the sea: “These wait all upon Thee.” Psalms 104:27. Of course they do not realize they are following instructions from their Creator, but He gives them the instinct to follow the paths He has marked out.

Did you know the Lord has a pathway for every boy and girl, too? His path is called “the path of life” and is the way to heaven and everlasting joy. The Psalmist wand to follow this path and prayed: “Teach me Thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path.” These Scriptures are in Psalms 16:11 and 27:11. In John 14:6 Jesus said: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” If we know Him as our Saviour, then we are sure of being on the right path where He can teach us His way. Are you walking in that pathway?

ML-11/15/1981

I Made Fun of Him

Memory Verse: “As many as received him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” John 1:12

Three boys were playing beside a country road outside a large town in Australia. Henry McCartney was the oldest of these three boys and was their leader. As they were playing, a crippled man on crutches came hobbling down the road. His arms and legs were twisted out of shape. His disease of rheumatism was so bad that he could not walk without the aid of the crutches. “Let’s have some fun,” suggested Henry to his friends as the crippled man came near.

The three boys, led by Henry, laughed at the crippled man and imitated the way he walked. The man said nothing, but continued on his way down the road. The boys turned to other games and soon foot about the crippled man.

As dinner time approached, each of the boys headed for home. Henry ran home and up the back steps into the kitchen. “Mother, where are you?” he called.

“In the living room,” answered his mother.

Henry burst into the living room (as only little boys can do) asking, “When do we eat? I’m....” And then he stopped! Henry’s mouth dropped open and his eyes stared—because there sat his mother talking to the crippled man that Henry had made fun of just an hour before.

“Well, Henry,” said his mother, “don’t act like that. Have you forgotten your manners? Come and say hello to Mr. Stevens.”

Henry shuffled over to Mr. Stevens. He couldn’t even look at him, because he was so embarrassed.

“Yes come here, my boy,” Mr. Stevens said as he put his hand on his shoulder and looked right at him. “God bless you, Henry, my boy. I hope that you grow up to be a true and faithful servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. Speak well of your Saviour all the time. God bless you, Henry.”

Then the twisted, swollen hand was lifted off Henry’s shoulder. Mr. Stevens picked up his crutches and slowly got to his feet. He shook hands with Henry’s mother, patted Henry on the head and slowly hobbled toward the door. “I must be going now,” he said, looking back at Henry. “Remember your Saviour, Henry,” were his last words before he went out the door.

As soon as the front door was closed, questions exploded from Henry! “Mother, who was that? Where did he come from? Why is he crippled? Why was he here?”

“Why, Henry, I thought you knew Mr. Stevens. I’ve told you the story many times. Don’t you remember? It happened back when you were about four years old. You were playing near the river chasing a butterfly. You chased it until it got to the edge of the river. Then as it settled on a clump of reeds, you reached for it, slipped and fell headfirst into the river. Mr. Stevens was passing by just then. He wasn’t crippled then, and he jumped right into the water to rescue you. He saved your life, Henry. He is crippled now because he saved you. He got very sick right after that, and that’s why he is on crutches. That’s what he did for you, Henry. He saved your life and ruined his own.”

And now it was Mother’s turn to listen as Henry broke into tears. “Oh, Mother! Today I was unkind and made fun of Mr. Stevens. Do you think he will forgive me?”

Then Henry told his mother the whole awful story. He told her what they had done to Mr. Stevens earlier that day. His mother listened and then, using what had happened, showed Henry that he was a sinner and needed God’s forgiveness, too. Henry had heard about the love of the Lord Jesus many times before. But this unhappy experience helped him to understand the love of the Lord Jesus and what He has done for sinners like him. Soon after, Henry asked the Lord Jesus to be his Saviour. And the rest of his life he “spoke well of his Saviour all the time.”

Does Henry’s experience remind you of how you are treating the Lord Jesus Christ? He did more than just risk His life for you. He died on the cross for you and suffered for your sins, so that you can be rescued from an everlasting death. But are you mocking Him and making fun of Him? If you are, what you are doing is far more serious than what Henry did, because you are sinning against God. God loves you and wants to save you from your sins. All you have to do is believe that God loves you and that He sent His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to die for your sins.

“He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” John 1:11,12.

ML-11/22/1981

A New Testament Word

Where one who served the Church abode,

(Rom. 16)

Who for his pride was smote by God?

(Acts 12)

Whose words did Absalom disdain?

(2 Sam. 17)

Who watched her sons in Gibeah slain?

(2 Samuel)

Who mocked his younger brother’s claim?

(Gen. 27)

Who from the dead was raised again?

(Acts 9)

What did King Saul in pieces rend,
And round the coasts of Israel send?

(1 Sam. 21)

Initial letters all combined produce
what suffers and is “kind.”

ML-11/22/1981

Wrong Way - Right Way

Which way should we go—to the right, or to the left? The channel to the right looked slightly wider, so after looking quickly at the map I said to go to the right. We were traveling by canoe down the Grass River through a marshy area when we came to this dividing point. Here we had to make a decision—we had to choose which way to go.

I wonder if you have made a decision yet about which way you are going? Are you going to heaven or hell? Right now you are at a dividing point. Have you decided to follow the Lord Jesus and go to heaven, or to follow Satan and the pleasures of this world and go to hell?

It soon became clear that I had picked the wrong channel. Even though it was wider, it turned and led away from the direction we wanted to go. Also, the water turned black and stagnant. When our paddles stirred up the water, it had an awful smell from the dead and decaying things in it.

This is just like the way of sin in this world. It looks good at first, but the end is sadness and death. “The wages of sin is death.” Romans 6:23.

We turned around and went back to the dividing point. I looked at the map again—this time very carefully. I now saw that the map did show both the wrong way and the right way, but I had been too hasty when I had looked at it before.

A good map is like the Bible, the Word of God. It shows us not only the way we should go, but the ways we should not go. But we must read the map carefully, and we must read the Word of God carefully, too. If we read it and pray to God about it, He will show us the right way.

As we paddled down the correct river channel we immediately saw that the water was clear and flowing. This was good water in which plants could grow and fish could live, instead of the dead and dying things that were in the wrong channel. Although the river had many more turns in it, we soon reached our destination. The river flowed into a large lake where we found a good place to camp for the night.

If you have not already done so, I hope and pray that you will accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour right now. He died to save you from your sins which are leading you down the “river of death” to hell. But by believing in the Lord Jesus Christ, you can follow Him on the “river of life” to a home with Him in heaven.

The Wrong Way: “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man; but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 16:25.

The Right Way: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalms 119:105.

ML-11/22/1981

More About Eels

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters; these see the works of the LORD, and His wonders in the deep.” Psalms 107:23. 24.

In addition to the kinds of eels that can be eaten, discussed in last week’s issue, there are many other kinds, some of which are large and vicious. Let’s consider three of these.

Congers and Morays

These eels, some of which measure eight feet long, do not migrate, but live their full lives in crevices of rocks or coral in the deep ocean. There they hide until a victim comes within reach of their jaws and strong, sharp teeth. These ugly creatures seem ready to attack almost anything that is small enough for them to eat. This includes even larger victims like octopus and squid. Both Congers and Morays are found in warm waters in many places, including the coasts of California and Mexico and parts of Europe.

Underwater divers are often staled by suddenly coming across one in the deep dark waters, but they do not bother humans unless irritated.

The Lamprey

In spring these eels, about three feet long, go from salt water to fresh water to lay their eggs, traveling many miles up mountain streams until shallow water is reached. Then they look for a place to build an underwater nest. When they find a suitable spot the male leaves his companion and explores the stream bottom. When he finds the right place he moves stones from the bottom of the creek with his sucking mouth and takes them to the shoreline. Soon he has ex-posed a smooth, sandy bottom where the female lays her eggs and he fertilizes them. Immediately afterward they both go upstream and busily pick up and move stones around, stirring up the sand on purpose, which drifts down and covers the eggs, hiding them. Who do you think taught them to do these things?

After hatching, the young eels remain in the stream four or five years, then move out into the ocean, or sometimes a large lake. In the new surroundings they seek out their prey—usually a large fish. They do not have jaws, but do have large sucker mouths armed with sharp teeth and a rough cutting tongue. Attaching themselves to the fish’s side with this vacuum-cleaner mouth, they apply the sharp teeth and tongue to that spot until blood flows. There they remain, often many days, drinking the blood until the fish dies. Then they go after another victim.

These repulsive beings remind us of Satan of whom we are warned to beware, lest “through his subtlety... your minds should be corrupted.” 2 Corinthians 11:3. It is our sins that make us a ready victim of that wicked one, but a gracious God warns us to “flee from the wrath to come,” (Matthew 3:7), and turn to the Saviour who “is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him.” Hebrews 7:25.

Do you realize that you are a sinner under Satan’s power, and have you accepted the kind invitation to find a shelter in the Saviour?

ML-11/22/1981

Grandfather Eliot's Nap

Memory Verse: “He saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.” Ephesians 5:14

Grandfather Eliot was a farmer on the western prairie in the early 1900's. Farmers worked very hard then, too, and even though Grandfather was getting old he still liked to help out with the farm work. He liked to have a little nap every day at noontime. This was about the only time he admitted he was getting old. The habit of a noon nap almost cost him his life one day.

Grandfather was alone on the farm one cold winter day. He came in at noon and put a kettle of water on the old wood stove. How good a cup of tea would taste! He was tired, so he took off his shoes and laid down for a few minutes to wait for the water to boil. But, he fell fast asleep.

We know that no one reading this story is asleep or you could not be reading, but are you fast asleep as to your need of a Saviour? Are you fast asleep as to the dangers of sin? Romans 13:11 tells us that it is time to awake out of sleep—it is time to accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your own Saviour.

All of a sudden Grandfather wakened to the noise of crackling flames and the house filled with smoke! On the table by his bed was one thing he prized—a clock that chimed every half hour. The clock was all he could save from the burning house. What a sad sight Grandfather was, standing in his stocking feet with his clock under his arm!

How thankful everyone was that Grandfather did waken in time, and that he was able to save his clock. It might sound foolish that he was concerned about a clock when he could easily have been burned in the house. But there are many people today who are concerned about so many things—things that might keep them from accepting the Lord Jesus as their Saviour. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2. We know there is a day coming when those who have not accepted the Lord Jesus as their Saviour will be cast into the lake of fire (see Rev. 20:15). Grandfather escaped from the burning house, but there will be no escape from the lake of fire for anyone who is not saved.

Pioneers were very friendly people, so I’m sure Grandfather was soon taken to someone’s home—someone who loved him and would care for him. We, who trust the Lord Jesus as our Saviour, know that He will soon return to take us to heaven to be with Himself. “I will come again, and receive you unto Myself.” John 14:3.

ML-11/29/1981

Two Rabbits for a Bible

A long, long time ago a girl named Mary lived in a little village in France. The people that lived near her did not love the Lord Jesus or read the Bible. Even Mary’s family did not love Jesus. Mary had accepted the Lord Jesus as her Saviour while visiting her grandmother the summer before.

Mary wanted to have a Bible so much. Her parents would not get one for her. Even if they would, Bibles were hard to find in those days. Mary could not go to town and buy a Bible. None of the stores sold them, and she did not have any money with which to buy one.

One day someone told Mary, “I know where you can buy a Bible. Over in Nimes there is a man who sells them. They only cost three francs.” How happy Mary was to know where she could get a Bible, but it would cost three francs. How could she get three francs? She did not have any money of her own. She knew neither her father nor her mother would give her any.

Mary tried to figure out how she could get three francs. Then she thought of her two little rabbits. They were so cute. She really loved them, but it was more important to her to have a Bible. Perhaps the man would trade a Bible for two rabbits.

Now Mary had to figure out how to get to Nimes. It was 70 miles away. They did not own a horse and cart. There weren’t any trains or cars in those days. People traveled in carts, but Mary did not have the money to pay for a ride. So she decided she would just have to walk the 70 miles.

Early one morning Mary left with her aunt and uncle to walk to Nimes. Since there were no other children going, they had finally agreed to let Mary go along. She put her rabbits in a basket and said good-bye to her parents.

When the rabbits got hungry along the way, she would pick grass for them to eat. On and on they walked. Each night they would sleep in a farmer’s barn and work for a little food. Everyone treated them kindly and helped them as much as they could.

Mary and her aunt and uncle had walked many miles. Up hill and down hill they walked. Mary was getting so tired. On and on they went. Then the road turned and started to go down another hill. They could see a village down in the valley. It was Nimes!

Mary forgot all about being tired. She started to walk faster. Soon she was in the town. Mary went from one shop to another. At last she found the place where Bibles were sold.

“Please, sir,” she asked, “would you trade a Bible for two rabbits?”

“All right, little girl,” the man said kindly.

So Mary handed over her rabbits and got her Bible. How happy she was! As soon as her aunt and uncle had finished their business, the three of them started for home. She was so happy to have her Bible that the 70 miles back did not seem long at all. When she got home she read it every day. It made her so happy, and soon her parents were reading it, too. It wasn’t long until they accepted Mary’s Saviour for themselves.

I wonder how many of you children reading this story read your Bible every day. If you love the Lord Jesus and He is your Saviour, then you should learn all you can about Him. The best place to learn about our wonderful Saviour is in the Bible. God’s own words are written down in it, telling us about who He is, how He loves us, and what He did for us. It also helps us to want to live for Him, too, because we can read what He wants us to do. We cannot be happy like Mary was unless we read our Bibles every day.

“Forever, O LORD, Thy Word is settled in heaven.” Psalms 119:89.

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

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.” John 1:1. 14.

ML-11/29/1981

Something God Cannot See

Timmy said to his mother, “Guess what my Sunday school teacher told me yesterday.”

“What did she tell you, Timmy? I hope it was something about God,” replied his mother.

“It was. She told us there is one thing God can’t see!”

Mother asked with a surprised voice, “Are you sure your teacher told you that? Why, God sees everything!”

Timmy said with a smile on his face, “She said that God can’t see our sins when they are all covered-up by the blood of Jesus!”

Mother quickly agreed, “That’s exactly right, Timmy. God tells us that in the Bible.”

“I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins.” Isaiah 44:22.

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

ML-11/29/1981

Eggs on the Ocean

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“For the Lord is a great God... the sea is His, and He made it: and His hands formed the dry land.” Psalms 95:3, 5.

Every October and November the Samoan Islanders receive a supply of food from the ocean which they consider a great treat. In each of those months this food comes at sunrise, exactly one day before the last quarter of the new moon and also the following day. Just three days before this there is a great migration of land crabs marching from the mountains to the sea to spawn, so the natives have this double notice to get ready to collect this treat.

The treat is the eggs of the eighteen-inch Palolo Worm. They live at the bottom of the ocean, hidden in rocks and coral. At these two months of the year they back out of their burrows and break themselves in two. The hind part rises to the surface to lay great numbers of eggs, and the front part goes back to its underwater home. By the second day the whole area is afloat with these eggs. The natives eagerly collect as many of them as possible.

What an amazing performance this is! Do you think the crabs and worms are watching the moon or looking at calendars? No, they simply follow the guidance of their Creator in ways we cannot understand.

Species of the Palolo Worm go through similar activities in the waters around Japan, the Fiji Islands, the Gulf of Mexico and other places in the Pacific. Some are active at the same time as those near the Samoan Islands, but many are active at different times of the year.

How do these interesting resents of the ocean know just the right days to make an appearance? What controls them so that they all leave their nests at the same time? It is God who has given them the instinct and living patterns suited exactly to their needs. That is why they know the exact hours and days to leave their underwater homes. The Lord God, who “upholds all things by the Word of His power,” watches over them with real care to see that they carry out their appointed role among His created things.

If the Lord of all creation cares for the Palolo Worm, we know He cares much more for us. Have we not proved that “His compassions fail not. They are new every morning"? Lamentations 3:22,23. But more than this—He has given mankind an everlasting soul and an invitation to spend eternity in heaven with Him.

But our sins will keep us from heaven, unless we accept the redeeming work of Christ, taking God’s judgment on Himself, to account for the sins of all who trust in His shed blood. “For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the Just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God.” 1 Peter 3:18. Have you admitted that you are a sinner and accepted Him as your own Saviour?

ML-11/29/1981

Lost in the Atlantic

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

It was the last day of March when the storm slammed into the east coast. The 85 MPH winds whipped the water into huge waves. As these broke on the New Jersey coast, they were 35 to 45 feet high.

The Norwegian freighter, the Norse Variant, was fighting these waves and having trouble. It was heading to Hamburg, Germany, loaded with coal when the storm hit. About midnight a distress call was received by the Coast Guard. It said, “Number 2 hatch broke open—ship sinking!” Then it gave its position as 150 miles southeast of Cape May.

During the remainder of the night two additional messages were received. The last message reported that the crew was abandoning ship. Then there was silence!

The Coast Guard on Governor’s Island responded quickly and sent three Coast Guard cutters and a Navy rescue boat to the ship’s last reported position. Air Force bases all along the coast sent rescue planes to look for the sinking ship and possible survivors. The strong winds and rain mixed with snow made the search very difficult. For two days they searched from dawn to dark as the weather and seas became more calm.

Late on the second day an empty life raft from the Norse Variant and a few pieces of debris were found southeast of the ship’s last known location. All hope for any survivors was almost given up.

The next morning Lieutenant Commander Edward Weilbacher took off in a search plane from Pease Air Base in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Nine men were with him in the search-and-rescue crew. They flew over the area where the Norse Variant had gone down. His crew carefully scanned the whole area with binoculars. Two rubber rafts were discovered; both were empty. Then another orange raft was spotted. As they flew over it they could see a man kneeling in the center of the raft. Weilbacher reported later: “We circled over him a few times. He was waving to us frantically. He seemed very excited. I can’t imagine how he survived in those sea conditions!”

A rescue team, carrying a radio and medical kit, parachuted from 1000 feet. They landed close to the raft and swam to it. The rescue team reported to the plane that the seaman was in good condition, and that he had not seen any other survivors in the three days he had been on the raft since the ship went down.

A rescue ship was then contacted by Weilbacher who directed it to the raft. With great difficulty, in waves that were still 15-20 feet, the rescue ship maneuvered close to the raft and rescued the seaman and the two parachutists. The seaman, Stein Gabrielsen, was transferred from the rescue ship to a hospital by helicopter. He was examined by doctors who found him slightly dehydrated, but otherwise, in good condition. He had survived a terrible experience in hurricane winds, high seas and near-freezing nights.

There is probably no one reading this story who has had an experience like this. What must it be like to spend three days alone in a raft under those conditions? What were Gabrielsen’s thoughts during those days and nights of being constantly tossed about? No doubt he spent much time thinking about his home and family. Perhaps he thought of some of his childhood experiences—some nice and some not so nice, because of wrong things he had done. We believe he must have thought about God and prayed that he might be rescued.

We know from God’s Word, the Bible, that “They that go down to the sea in ships... These see the works of the LORD, and His wonders in the deep. For He commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof... their soul is melted because of trouble... Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and He bringeth them out of their distresses... Oh that men would praise the LORD for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!” Psalms 107:23-31.

We don’t know if Gabrielsen ever did “praise the Lord” or thank Him for being rescued. We do know that 29 men died when the Norse Variant went down. We hope that many of them turned to God and were saved by believing in the Lord Jesus Christ.

We hope that each of you also know Him as your own Saviour. Have you ever stopped to think that you are on your way to an eternity in hell if you have not been rescued from your sins by the Lord Jesus? He died on the cross to save you. Accept Him now as your only hope of rescue. He has done everything for you, so that all you have to do is believe.

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

ML-12/06/1981

They Know His Voice

A number of years ago Frank Arnold was accused of having stolen a sheep. The man accusing him, John Edwards, had him arrested and put in jail. John said that he had proof that the sheep belonged to him.

The case was brought before a judge who listened to both sides of the story. Each of the men said that the sheep belonged to him. John Edwards presented a bill of sale that showed that he had bought some sheep. However, the judge was not sure that this particular sheep was part of that sale.

The judge knew the habits of sheep and the customs of shepherds. Since both men standing before him claimed to be the shepherd who owned this sheep, the judge had the sheep brought into the courtroom. John was taken to another room off the courtroom. Then Frank was told to call the sheep. Frank called and whistled, but the sheep just stood there and did not move.

Then John, still in the other room off the courtroom, began to whistle softly, giving the call that he used when calling his sheep. This staled the sheep which immediately turned and trotted towards the door to answer the well-known call. The judge then had no difficulty deciding who was the real owner!

In God’s Word, the Bible, we read about the Good Shepherd whose sheep follow Him because they know His voice. They will run away from a stranger, because they do not know his voice. Jesus says in John 10:11, “I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.”

Do you know what Jesus has done for you? Because He loves you so very much, He died on the cross, shedding His blood to wash away your sins so that you can live with Him in heaven forever. If you will ask Him to wash your sins away, you will be included as one of His sheep. He is a loving Shepherd who will take care of you and protect you until you are safely home with Him in heaven.

“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-12/06/1981

On the Job All the Time

Danny was seven years old. He loved the Lord Jesus and had asked Him to be his Saviour. He also loved his daddy, and they often talked together about the Lord Jesus.

One day, Danny asked, “Daddy, when is Jesus coming again?”

Daddy answered, “I don’t know. He may come any time. He told His disciples, ‘Be ye... ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.’" Luke 12:40.

Danny was quiet for a little while, thinking. Then he said, “Daddy, if Jesus is coming soon, we had better be on the job, hadn’t we?”

“You are right, Danny. We want Him to find us loving Him, watching and waiting for Him, and doing His work.”

Danny said, “I wish He would come today. I want to see Him so much!”

“Behold, I come quickly.” Revelation 22:12.

ML-12/06/1981

Salamanders Like to Hide

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“And God made... everything that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good. " Genesis 1:25.

We might think that God is not very interested in a little animal like a salamander. But as our verse tells us, He not only brought all the little things into being, but “saw that it was good” after He had done so. One reason He made them was to benefit mankind by helping to keep in check the harmful bugs and insects that damage man’s food supply. They do this very well.

Most salamanders (or newts) keep hidden in the daytime. Sometimes after a heavy rain they appear in street gutters or along paved sidewalks. Because they show up when things are soaking wet, they are often called “Water Dogs.”

There are over three hundred kinds, ranging in size from one inch to five feet long. Most are about the length of your middle finger (not counting the tail). Since they must keep their skins moist, they live near ponds or swamps, or under logs or wet leaves, and some in underground burrows.

One unusual species in the tropics spends its entire life in trees, sometimes a hundred feet above ground. It makes its home in plants that grow on tree trunks and hold water in their leaves. Such salamanders have very flat bodies, so they can move around in these tight places.

They also have webbed toes and “suction-cup” feet, so they can scamper over tree leaves easily.

Another interesting species, the Red Eft, is only about three inches long. It starts life as an egg carefully wrapped in a leaf by its mother, which she fastens just below the surface of a pond. When it hatches, it drops as a larva to the bottom of the pond where it lives for about a year. Emerging from its shell in the fall, it crawls out on land as an air-breathing little creature, brick-red in color, and heads for a winter hiding place in a rotten log or other safe place. In the spring it comes out and is quite happy to spend most of its time waiting for a fly or bug to come close. When this happens it flicks out its sticky tongue—so fast it can hardly be seen —and captures it.

Newts, like lizards, have the ability to replace lost or injured parts of their bodies. If a tail or leg is bitten off it will grow back quickly, just as healthy as ever. Some have even been known to lose an eye and have a new one replace it.

We might wonder why God put these odd little animals on earth, but they are just part of His whole design in balancing the rest of His creation. How wonderfully He has equipped each one to fit its own way of life—whether below the ground, in the water, on the surface, or up in a tree top.

Some teachers, who don’t believe in God or don’t believe the Bible, claim all things came by evolution. But we know the truth of Scripture: “There is but one God ... and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things.” 1 Corinthians 8:6. Happy is that person who recognizes Him not only as Creator, but as Lord and Saviour, as well.

ML-12/06/1981

Follow-the-Leader

Memory Verse: “Jesus ... saith unto him, Follow Me. And he arose, and followed Him.” Matthew 9:9

The adventure started one Monday morning. It seemed like an exciting game of follow-the-leader as Tim and Eddie followed Ben around the streets of their quiet neighborhood. They stopped for ice cream, soft drinks, hot dogs—just anything that interested them. What fun it was just to wander around, stopping to eat, explore or play whenever they wanted.

We are all following a leader through life, but the important question is—which leader are you following, the Lord Jesus or Satan? The Lord Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life (John 14:6), and He is the only one that can lead you safely through life to heaven. We cannot follow two leaders. Matthew 6:24 tells us “No man can serve two masters....”

The boys continued on their adventure through the afternoon not knowing that their parents and the police were very concerned and had begun searching for them. Some of the other people in their neighborhood saw the boys stop for pizza, but they did not know the boys were headed for trouble.

The boys were never found alive. While exploring an empty apartment building, the three of them had crammed themselves into one little closet. The door got stuck, and they eventually died because they could not get enough air.

This story does not have what we would call a “happy ending.” Sometimes we do not like to read stories like this. Many children think they can just go on doing what they want to, following the wrong leader, and everything will be alright. But the Bible tells us that unless we accept the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour and follow the right Leader, we will end up in the lake of fire (hell). We certainly would have to say that the lake of fire is not a “happy ending.” Accept the Lord Jesus as your Saviour now, and then you will know the joys of a “happy ending.” “In Thy presence is fullness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” Psalms 16:11.

ML-12/13/1981

Skippy

Skippy was so thirsty. He wanted a drink, but his dish was dry. There was not one drop of water in it. He went to Lisa and sat up begging and barked. He said just as plainly as he could, “Please, Lisa, I want a drink.”

“You’re a good doggie,” said Lisa and patted him. “Now be quiet,” she added. She did not seem to understand what he wanted.

Lisa’s sister Ruthie did not understand him either. “Oh Skippy, you’re a nice dog,” she said. “You want a dog biscuit, don’t you? Well, here’s one for you.” Skippy took the dog biscuit and then laid it back down on the floor.

Daddy did not understand either. “Sure, Skippy,” he said. “There’s a bone for you out in the garage. I’ll get it for you.” But when the bone was laid down in front of Skippy he just looked at it. He did not want a bone either.

“I wonder what Skippy wants?” Mother questioned as she turd the water on in the kitchen sink.

Skippy walked over to the sink and whined as he looked at the water. “Maybe he wants some water. Lisa,” she called, “check Skippy’s water dish.”

Sure enough, Lisa found the dish completely empty. There was not even a drop! Lisa brought the dish to the sink and filled it up. Did Skippy’s tail wag! At last he had his drink.

Boys and girls often want something, too. But they are not like Skippy who knew exactly what he wanted, because children often do not know what they want. First they want a toy, but they soon get tired of it. Then they start reading a book.

When that does not interest them anymore they look for something else to do. They are always wanting something that they do not have.

A person who has the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour has everything that he needs. Being saved is what brings real happiness. The water they gave Skippy took care of his thirst, but he would soon be thirsty again. The Lord Jesus Christ will give us the “living water” which will last forever. He is that “living water.” He is the only one that can satisfy all our needs. He loved us so much that He died for our sins. Now He is waiting for anyone who will believe in Him. Will you?

Jesus said, “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” John 4:14.

ML-12/13/1981

A Mother's Decision

A young Zambian mother brightly confessed the Lord as her Saviour. She became a new creature (new person) in Christ. “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17.

The heathen religion in which she was brought up did not interest her anymore. Now she worshipped the true God who created the heavens, the earth, the sea and everything in them. She now believed that He is the One who sends the sunshine and rain to make the crops grow.

However, there was something that really bothered her. It was something she had done before accepting the Lord as her Saviour. She had thrown her little baby into the river. Why would a mother do this to her child?

According to the law and custom of the tribe (which could not be broken), a child who got its first tooth in the upper jaw, instead of the lower jaw, had to be killed. The tribal law said that such a child had an evil spirit.

It was a very hard thing for that mother to do, because she loved her baby very much. Still, there was no other way out. The neighbors kept warning her day after day that she had to do it. They said it would cause much harm to the village people if she did-not, so she finally gave in.

Before she was saved it was a matter of obeying the tribal law. Now that she knew the Lord Jesus Christ as her Saviour, it seemed like a terrible sin. That is the reason she came to the missionary’s village—to find out if it was too great a sin for the Lord to forgive.

Although the missionary was sad to hear what the mother had done, he was able to comfort her from the Bible, the Word of God. He showed her that the Lord Jesus loved sinners so much that He shed His precious blood to wash away all their sins.

It was a comfort to this mother to learn that she was forgiven. Although she still missed her child, the heavy burden was lifted. She knew her child was safe in heaven, and that she would meet him there one day soon.

“The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:7,9.

ML-12/13/1981

Army Ants on the Move

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made.” John 1:3.

The large, fierce army ants live in the tropical countries of the world. They have no permanent home and are always on the move, except when they stop to raise their young. As they travel worker ants lead the way with larger soldiers at the sides. The main colony follows, carrying larvae in their mouths. Finally, the queen comes surrounded by large numbers of workers. There may be several million ants in such a procession. As this colony moves, it covers an area fifty or sixty feet wide and a quarter of a mile long.

Every small living thing that they come across is attacked and killed. They either eat what they kill or break it into small pieces and take it back for the queen and her workers.

Strangely, these ants are blind and are guided only by feelers and a sense of smell. As they move they leave an identifying scent. The messengers and scouts follow this scent back to the main group when they have found food. Large numbers then return with the scouts to where the food was found. Once in a while captive ants are made slaves in the colony.

Usually the only time the colony stops is to let the queen lay more eggs. Rather than build a nest, they find a cave or overhanging cliff. A number of workers and soldiers climb to the ceiling where they attach themselves firmly. Others crawl over them, hanging one to the other until reaching the ground. These strings of ants are close together and almost form a wall. Passageways are left open so the queen can go to the center and be safe from intruders. This way the queen is guarded while she lays thousands of eggs. Then the colony is soon on the march again, taking the eggs with them.

When the colony makes an overnight rest stop, the columns break up and they all climb up bushes and vines to form living balls. They stay there until daylight, when they come back down and continue their move.

The ways of these vicious ants seem cruel and harsh. And yet they serve a purpose by holding in check many creatures that would otherwise overrun the jungle. They are part of God’s overall plan to keep nature in balance.

In observing the army ants we can see that their survival over the centuries has been the result of complete obedience to the ways of God in His creation. To His people of old, the promise was given: “Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be My people: and walk ye in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well unto you.” But, sad to say, “They hearkened not, nor inclined their ear, but walked in the counsels and in the imagination of their evil heart, and went backward, and not forward.” Jeremiah 7:23,24.

How happy it would be if every boy and girl had a desire to please the Lord and obey God’s Word. But we cannot be obedient and happy unless we have a new life—a new nature—given to everyone who accepts the Lord as their Saviour. Do you have this new life, and are you obeying Him?

ML-12/13/1981

Help From Above

Memory Verse: “The Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.” 1 John 4:14

Charles sat down dangling his legs out the open door of the airplane. The wind whipped around his face. It was an exciting moment —his first parachute jump. The instructor tapped his shoulder, giving him the signal. Charles leaned forward and pushed himself out the door.

No one knew just why, but Charles’s parachute came out of its pack too quickly. As he somersaulted away from the plane, the chute whipped back catching fast on the tail of the plane.

Charles found himself being towed at more than 50 MPH about 40 feet behind the plane. He jerked desperately at the parachute lines, hoping to jerk loose from the plane. It was no use. He was caught!

Back at the door of the plane, the instructor stared back at the hung-up parachute hardly able to believe what he saw. Charles twisted around so he could see the plane’s door. There was a questioning look on his face. As they looked at each other, the instructor stuck out his fist with his thumb up—“Everything will be all right. We’ll get you loose,” his motion said. Charles answered back with a thumbs-up fist.

The instructor pulled himself back in the door and began to study the problem. There was really no way to reach the hung-up parachute to release it. If he tried to land the plane, Charles would be killed. They needed help from somewhere else—someone to come release the helpless man.

The call went out over the plane’s radio, and everyone waited. Would help arrive before the gasoline supply ran out?

Each one of us is just like Charles before we are saved! We are tangled up and caught in our sins and cannot do a thing about it. Those to whom we might go for help are also helpless. What we need is help from somewhere else—someone to come down and save us. And only the Lord Jesus Christ can do that. “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.

Time went by slowly for Charles while he was being towed behind the plane: 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 90 minutes passed. Time was running out! The gasoline was running low! If he was going to be saved he needed to be saved soon! And God says to each sinner, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

Suddenly Charles heard a roar above him. Looking up he saw a huge, red helicopter dropping down through the mist. The copter hovered along about 50 feet above the slow-flying plane. A man quickly descended on a boom cable right to where Charles was caught. After first making sure that Charles was prepared to use his emergency parachute, the rescuer cut him loose from the plane. Three seconds later the emergency parachute opened beautifully, and he floated down to a perfect first landing.

Charles was released from his terrible position by help from above. And each person who realizes their terrible condition, lost in their sins, can also call for help from above. “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15. You can be saved by simply calling to Him in faith. “Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:13. “If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God path raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9.

ML-12/20/1981

The Mountain Climbers

Three mountain climbers had gone to Switzerland to climb one of the mountains there. They had climbed most of the peaks in Cana and the United States. Now they wanted to climb some of the Alpine peaks.

After arriving in Switzerland they located the climbing school that had been recommended to them. They hired an experienced guide, a man named Jenni, and began to plan for their first climb.

Several days later the four men began their climb up the snow-peaked mountain Pitz Musteratsch. The climb went well with no usual problems. The three climbers were proud of themselves when they reached the top. They rested for a short time and then began the return trip. They had decided to make the return trip by a different route.

Starting down, they soon found this way to be more dangerous than the way up. The slope was icy, and it was difficult to walk over. There was also evidence of recent snow slides on this side of the mountain.

“This could be dangerous,” ward Jenni. Each of them attached safety lines to their belts. These were linked to the person ahead and the person behind so that all four men were linked together. “Keep close to each other, and follow my steps exactly!” cautioned Jenni. “One wrong step or loud noise may start a slide.”

Jenni had no sooner finished warning them when there was a roar above them. Looking up he saw a huge cliff of snow break away and begin moving towards them. The four men tried to get out of the path of the sliding snow. But it was too late! Only Jenni, who was in the lead, managed to jump clear. The three others were knocked over and swept down the steep slope towards the brink of a high cliff. It seemed like certain death for the whole party. The men were being carried so fast that they could not stop themselves. Jenni realized that as soon as the safety rope tightened he would be pulled down, too.

Stamping his steel-spiked boots into the ice, he drove his ice ax deep into the ice and braced himself.

Straining backwards with all his strength, he was able to stop the slide of the three other climbers. They found a foothold in the icy slope and carefully climbed back to Jenni, who was still holding tightly to the rope that held them. He had saved the lives of the three men! They had been saved from going over the cliff to their death. The three climbers will never forget Jenni, their guide who saved their lives.

At the end of a sinner’s life there is everlasting punishment if he has not had his sins forgiven. Many people are sliding over the brink of life every day into an eternity without God. What a terrible thought!

The three climbers were saved because they were linked to their guide Jenni. Are you linked to Christ? Do you know Him as your Saviour and Guide? There is no safety without Him. Everyone who is linked to Him is safe even if the path is slippery. No one in His care will be lost.

The Bible tells us that God loves us. He sent His Son to die for us so that we can be saved. The only question remaining is—will you let Him save you right now?

“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-12/20/1981

The Hidden Bible

In Argentina a young woman was given a Bible by a visiting missionary. Although she wanted to read it to find out more about the Lord Jesus, she was afraid of her husband. He did not want to hear or read about the love of God. Every day the young wife read her Bible while her husband was at work. It was not long until God’s love won her over, and she accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her Saviour.

One day after reading her Bible she forgot to put it back in its hiding place. She was at the store when her husband came back. He saw the Bible and began reading it. When she returned from the store she was surprised to find him sitting reading her Bible. He looked up, smiled and said, “This is a good book. We should be reading it together.” It was not long before he also saw his need of a Saviour and believed on the Lord Jesus Christ.

“Come thou and all thy house into the ark.” Genesis 7:1.

ML-12/20/1981

What Is an Atom?

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“Touching the Almighty, we cannot find Him out: He is excellent in power.” Job 37:23.

An atom is the smallest, but the most important part of everything that exists. In a one-half inch cube of any material there are about one hundred thousand billion billion of them! It is the “building block” of the Creator, the material of which all things are made. Einstein, the famous scientist, claimed that if the atomic energy in one-half pound of any substance were released it would equal seven million tons of TNT.

Researchers cannot understand how the atom, which is made up of protons, neutrons and electrons, is held together. They think it is like a magnet with positive and negative forces. However, when two common magnets are placed end to end they either attract each other or push each other apart (according to how the positive and negative ends are placed). Inside an atom this does not happen. Its parts are held together, but kept separate at the same time, with space between each one of them.

An object which appears to have no movement in it actually is composed of many billions of atoms whirling around their nucleus (center) millions of times each second, yet never flying away or ever touching one another. Here is a further reminder that “God... doeth great things and unsearchable; marvelous things without number.” Job 5:8,9.

ML-12/20/1981

What Is a Molecule?

These are the smallest parts of a combined chemical substance containing a combination of atoms. Everything in the world is formed by various combinations of atoms. For instance, water is often referred to as H20. This simply means that two atoms of hydrogen are joined with one atom of oxygen to form a molecule of water. Incidentally, molecules are so small that a teaspoon of water holds as many molecules as there are teaspoonfuls of water in the Atlantic Ocean. Or, put another way, if the molecules in one drop of water were changed to grains of sand, this amount of sand could be used to make a concrete highway across the United States.

Atoms never change, but molecules can. Molecules in any substance vibrate rapidly when heated. If the heat increases enough the solid will change to liquid (even metal will do this) or become a gas (as wood does when it is burned), and the molecular structure changes.

An honest scientist must admit that there is a divine power who made these tiny but powerful elements and also controls them. The atom proves that the theories of evolution are wrong, because from its unchangeable character all matter is composed and cannot “evolve” into something else.

Scripture tells us, “The invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead....” Romans 1:20. Do you know Him as your God and His Son as your Saviour?

ML-12/20/1981

A Jewel for Jesus

Memory Verse: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Have you ever seen a real jewel, maybe a diamond? Have you seen how it sparkles in the light? This is because it was reflecting the light. In the same way a Christian can reflect the light or glory of God.

In the book of Malachi, the last book in the Old Testament, God talks about jewels. These jewels are people who love the Lord and who tell others about Him. Then He says in Malachi chapter 3 verse 17, “And they shall be Mine... in that day when I make up My jewels.”

Perhaps you think you have to be grown-up to be a jewel for the Lord, but this is not so. Let me tell you about Sharon, a little girl who loved the Lord Jesus very much. She shone like a lovely, sparkling jewel.

When Sharon was very small she loved to go to her grandmother’s house. I’m sure you like to go to your grandmother’s house, too. Grandma had a big Bible which she read all the time. She would read it to Sharon and then explain the wonderful stories that they had read together.

There was the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, the sad story of how Satan brought sin and sorrow to that first earthly home. There was the story of Noah and the ark, of Jonah and the great fish, and many others. Most of all Sharon loved the stories about the Lord Jesus.

When she was four years old she started going to Sunday school. Every Sunday when the car came by to pick her up, she was ready to go. Her hair was brushed and neat, and she was dressed in her best clothes. Her big brown eyes showed that she was excited.

Sharon did not say very much in class, but how she listened! When her teacher described heaven and told about the joys waiting up there for those who love Jesus, her eyes glowed with wonder. She thought about heaven a lot. One day she said to her mother, “No one who loves Jesus should be afraid to die. Everyone has to die if Jesus doesn’t come first, but then they go to be with Him anyway.”

Not long after that her mother got sick and had to go to the hospital. Although she missed her mother Sharon was glad to help around the house doing many little jobs that her mother had taught her. She counted the days until Sunday when her mother was going to come home. Sharon wanted so much to have everything just right.

Early on Sunday morning, before anyone else was up, Sharon tiptoed downstairs in her nightie. Brrrrr, it was chilly. Then suddenly she had an idea. Why not build a fire in the fireplace. Then the downstairs would be nice and warm when Daddy brought Mommy home. She had seen Daddy build a fire before and, after all, she was five years old now.

But five-year-olds are just too young to be near a fire. As careful as she was, Sharon got too close to the flames, and her nightie caught fire. Before anyone could come to help her little Sharon was badly burned.

That day, instead of riding to Sunday school in a car with other children, Sharon was raced to the hospital in an ambulance.

When she reached the hospital the first thing she asked Daddy for was her Bible. Then she whispered to him, “Daddy, will you please phone my Sunday school teacher, and ask her to pray for me?”

Day after day the patient little girl lay suffering as doctors and nurses worked to save her life. Daddy and Mommy took turns staying by her bedside. They always found her cheerful and showing concern for others.

Sharon believed in prayer more than many adults do. One morning after a bad night, Sharon told her mother, “Mommy, I couldn’t sleep last night. I wanted you so badly. But I prayed, and then Jesus seemed to come right beside me, so I didn’t cry any more.”

Sharon also loved to sing. Her young voice was often heard in the hospital. The doctors and nurses often came in or stood outside her room to listen. She also talked about the Lord Jesus to anyone who came into her room. Everyone noticed how happy she was in spite of her pain.

But a wonderful thing was happening at the same time. The Lord was speaking to Sharon’s father and mother. They did not know the Lord Jesus as their Saviour. But finally, one day they both knelt down and asked the Lord Jesus to forgive their sins and to be their Saviour. A real change took place in their hearts. For the first time they were able to really pray. They asked the Lord to heal their daughter if it was His will. They knew that He always did what was best for each one.

For fifty-three days Sharon clung to life. Sometimes she seemed to improve, and at other times she got worse. On May 9, 1964, two weeks after her sixth birthday, the Lord Jesus gently took His precious little jewel to heaven where she will shine forever and ever.

He will gather, He will gather the gems for His kingdom;

All the pure ones, all the bright ones,

His loved and His own.

Like the stars of the morning, His bright crown adorning,

They shall shine in His beauty, bright gems for His crown.

Little children, little children who love their Redeemer,

Are the jewels, precious jewels, His loved and His own.

Like the stars of the morning, His bright crown adorning,

They shall shine in His beauty, bright gems for His crown.

ML-12/27/1981

Stolen Apples

The children ran out of the house to get in the car to go to school.

“Look—someone’s in our yard!” Tim shouted. “They’re stealing our apples!”

Sure enough, there were two people, a man and his wife, with a bag of apples. As soon as they saw that they had been discovered, they quickly ran out of the yard and started down the street.

We felt sad that they were stealing. If they had only asked us for the apples, we would have been happy to give them several boxes full. The man and his wife left quickly when we saw them, because they had a bad cons fence. They knew what they had done was wrong, and they did not want to meet us.

This experience reminds us of another man and his wife and another garden that we can read about in Genesis chapter 3. It is the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. God told them not to eat of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. But Eve, after being tempted by Satan, took the fruit and gave some to Adam. When God came down to see them they hid, because they now had a conscience that told them what they had done was wrong. They had sinned.

When we have done something wrong to someone, we don’t like to go near them until we are sure they have forgiven us. Each one of us has sinned against God, and we don’t feel happy when we think of meeting Him, until after we have asked to be forgiven.

Perhaps those people who were stealing apples will never know that we forgave them. But each one of us can know for sure that our sins are forgiven, through the blood of Jesus Christ.

“Through His name whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins.” Acts 10:43.

“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.

ML-12/27/1981

A Masterpiece of Design

The Wonders of God’s Creation

“Gavest Thou the goodly wings unto the peacocks? or wings and feathers unto the ostrich?” Job 39:13.

A bird’s feather is the lightest object in the world for size and toughness. It provides not only flight, but warmth and distinctive coloring as well. Most birds do not have feathers when they are hatched, but have soft, fluffy fuzz called down. They do not get feathers until later. What a wonderful provision of the Creator to give this nice, soft, warm coat to them while they are waiting for their feathers to grow.

A feather is made up of a hollow but strong principal shaft, called a quill, which tapers to a point. Each quill has about 600 little branches, called barbs. Each of the barbs in turn has about 800 smaller branches, called barbules. The barbules of most birds then grow tiny hooks, known as barbicels, on the feather’s underside and corresponding flanges on the upper side. A single feather on a large bird might contain about 30 million barbicels. A strong microscope is necessary to see these tiny parts. If you could count all of the barbicels on all of the feathers of a bird, you would find several hundred billion! Isn’t that astounding? Did you ever think a bird’s feather could be so complicated? Perhaps you are curious as to why all these hooks are there.

When birds lift their wings to fly the feathers hook one to another, making a firm fan. It actually looks like a zipper. Yet, as it flies through the air, it is not always desirable for all of these hooks to remain hooked. When the hooks on one or more feathers let loose, the bird can carry out a sudden turn or dive perfectly. The bird does not stop to think about this. God has created it so these actions are automatic and immediate.

The tail feathers of birds are different from all the others and do not hook together. Some have only about a dozen tail feathers, but others have as many as a thousand. Whatever the number, all are rooted in a “pincushion” with a separate muscle for each feather, so it can pivot in any direction.

God has also provided each bird with a pigment (color) system so the species of all remain true in color and design. This helps the birds recognize their own kind, and they will not mate with others. He created “every winged fowl after his kind,” and they have been obedient to this rule throughout the years—never changing from one kind to another, as some foolishly try to tell us.

Thinking of the wonders of creation makes us want to join in the scripture, “Praise Him (God) for His mighty acts: praise Him according to His excellent greatness.” Psalms 150:2. We do indeed praise Him for these mighty acts of creation, but when we know Him as our Saviour we can praise Him even more: “By Him therefore let us offer... praise to God ... the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.” Hebrews 13:15. Can you join in this praise?

ML-12/27/1981

Messages of God's Love: 1981

Table of Contents

An Escape to Freedom

Randy and His Teacher

Thieves in the Garden

The Lovely Monarch Butterfly: Part 2

The Old Stump's Secret

"Christ Is All"

God's Workers

The Dragon Fly

Child Choking!!

Brian

Unusual Incubator Birds

Ted the Paper Boy

Can God Provide?

The Praying Mantis

Tell the Truth

Sokonyi

A Child's Trust

The Pika - A Mountain Farmer

Buck

He Found a Bible

The Land-Otter

Chief Sundu

Noah Webster

The Sea-Otter

Bushy Tail

Senor Domingo

An Underground Resident

The Wrong Story

I Need a Break

A Child of the King

Some Facts About the Bible

The Lacewing Fly

Escape!

What Color Is Jesus' Skin?

The Friendly Ladybird Beetle

"Don't Let Him Die!"

Sweet Potatoes

Putting the Sun to Work the Crocodile

Adventure in a Rowboat

Balto

The Plant with Honey Jars

The Lions

Which Is the Best Cleanser?

Water and Ice

"Riding the Bucket"

"He Knows the Shepherd"

The Lowly Acorn

A Lost Lamb

The Birthday Party

Your Skin Holds You Together

Rogilio

"I Jus' Don't Have Nothin' the Matter With Me"

The Loggerhead Turtle

Mildred's Trust

A Little Orphan

The Burden Was Gone

Travelers of the Bird World

Trapped in Sand Cave

The Cicada Killer

Minnie's Cake

A Bad Path

The All-Important Sun

A Year Later

The Crocodile's Friend

Lost at Sea

The Stolen Doll

Termites and Their Ways

Rescued at Sea

The Stolen Rose

Flesh-Eating Plants

The Pirates and the Bed

The Telephone

A Seven-Ton Baby

Mud Pies

The Lost Letter

The Bridge

The Paper-Making Wasp

"The Valley of Doom!"