March 13

Fifth Wednesday after Epiphany

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts. Colossians 3:15.

LET it "rule" is a peculiar word—let it "sit as umpire" or "arbiter" in your hearts to decide upon and moderate all difference. "To the which also," he adds, "ye are called in one body;" this peace holding you all together as one "body" is the very object of your calling. So may the love of this life be the prelude of the love in life eternal. Daily, hourly, while we are in church, speaking or listening or praying, we are hasting towards our eternal home. Love with a love which shall not pass away, a love of Christ, from Christ, in Christ, to Christ. Kindle in one another the love of eternity; meditate together on the things of heaven, the glories of heaven, the joy, the peace, the purity of heaven, as "laying up treasure in heaven." The peace of God which passeth all understanding keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

Heavenward doth our journey tend,

Here we roam a pilgrim band, Yonder is our native land.

Heavenward stretch, my soul, thy wings, Heavenly nature canst thou claim, There is nought of earthly things Worthy to be all thine aim; Every soul that God inspires Back to Him, its Source, aspires.

Heavenward doth His Spirit cry, When I hear Him in His Word, Showing thus the rest on high, Where I shall be with my Lord: When His Word fills all my thoughts, Oft to heaven my soul is caught.