March 24

And God blessed them; and God said unto them, Be fruitful and multiply and replenish the earth and subdue it. Genesis 1:28.

In the Fifth Commandment we have learned that God regards human life as holy and throws around it His protecting commandment, "Thou shalt not kill." The Sixth Commandment stands in close relation to the fifth; for holy wedlock is the God-appointed means of continuing human life in an orderly and decent way. It is at once the basis and bond of society.

At the beginning of the human race, God spoke these solemn words: "Be fruitful and multiply." What a terrible indictment of those who abuse the creation and ordinance of God by preventing the birth of children or killing them after conception! Nations have been brought to ruin by this appalling vice, and if the physicians speak the truth, it is the crowning sin of our age and country. Where are the families blessed with many children? Why is it that the number of births is decreasing? Here the evil lies hidden. This crime has wrought a frightful havoc in many countries. The family life is the foundation of human society. Married life, without seeking to fulfil its first purpose, the perpetuation of the human race and the bringing up of one's offspring in the proper manner, undermines and frustrates that foundation of the state and must be called one of the blackest of evils.

The family is the first purpose of matrimony. But some de-

liberately resolve that there shall be no family, or, at least, that it shall be as small, as limited, as possible. There is no other means of making people shun this hidden sin than the Word of God. For instance, Psalms 127:3: "Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord, and the fruit of the womb is His reward." Only truly Christian parents will take upon themselves the great task of bringing up children. The command and promise of God will move them to do it.

Prayer.

O benignant God and faithful Father, give grace unto me that I may constantly keep Thy fear before mine eyes, also love Thee and trust in Thee, my Creator and Redeemer, above all things, but that I also may honor and love my spouse and not covet any other. Fill my heart and soul with a holy purpose to lead a chaste life, in fear and humility, so that I may prevent or allay any wrath or ill humor, ever living in gentleness and forbearance, in a mild spirit, to Thy praise and glory. Amen.

O grant that no vain thought may rest Or be conceived within my breast; That by each deed and word and thought All glory may to God be brought. But what are wishes! Lord, mine eye On Thee is fixed, to Thee I cry! Wash, Lord, and purify my heart And make it clean in every part; And when 'tis clean, Lord, keep it true, For that is more than I can do.