Some time ago near a small town two little boys were fishing in the river. Accidentally, they both fell into the water. A young man who was fishing nearby plunged in after them. He was not a very good swimmer, but managed to bring both the youngsters to the bank safely. He then found himself in difficulties. Weighted down with water-soaked clothing and weaned by his previous efforts, the steep, slippery bank of the river was too much for him. The more he struggled, the worse it was, and soon he was drawn under the water and drowned.
The sad news soon reached his father and mother, who, of course, were greatly grieved. His young brother too, who came home soon afterward, was in deep sorrow until he heard that the boys, his playmates, were saved. Then he was comforted for the loss of his brother.
A few days later, the two little boys followed close behind the coffin as it was borne to the cemetery. After the funeral, the father of the brave lad whose body had just been lowered into the grave came up to the two sorrowing little boys. Bending down, he gave each one a kiss, and prayed God’s blessing upon them.
There was present a young man, a Christian, who that evening was to preach the gospel not far away. He went as planned, and standing before his hearers, said: “I saw today something I have never seen before. A father kissed two boys who had caused the death of his son.”
He then told them about the funeral. “And,” he said, “that is what God in His great love is doing now, kissing any who come to Him believing in the Lord Jesus Christ, notwithstanding the fact that they were the cause of the death of His Son.”
It made a strong impression on his hearers. One in the audience, who was judged to be one of the worst men in that place, came up to the preacher after the meeting and said, “Does God kiss all repentant ones like that?”
“Yes,” the preacher replied, “if they come to Him in faith, believing on the Lord Jesus Christ, they will receive pardon, peace, and blessing.”
He replied, “I will come to Him right now!”
May God grant that your decision may be the same. As a result you will know forgiveness of your sins, and learn the joy of the Father’s kiss.
ML 02/11/1968