Mark 3

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. III.—Attendance on Christ, for his healing power and grace, is always hopeful. No day is unseasonable for works of mercy, especially in dealing with him. And if he bid us to give dead hearts, or stretched out withered hands, himself must afford the ability. The most earnest gospel calls are in vain without the effectual power of his grace. Many, alas, by their obstinacy and hardness of heart provoke his grief and indignation, and return him hatred, murder, and blasphemy, for his kindness!—and men deny and abuse him whom even devils confess and obey! But it is highly absurd to pretend his connection with Satan, when their interests are so evidently contrary. And dreadful is that presumption which leads to the unpardonable sin. Professors should carefully avoid this infallible cause of damnation. Very honourable is a spiritual relation to Christ, and an active faithfulness in his service. If then he sovereignly call me to his work, let no censures of men deter, or importunity of friends divert, me from it. 1