March 19

Tuesday after Septuagesima Sunday

He was a burning and a shining light. S. John 5:35.

OUR Lord, in thus speaking of S. John Baptist, would teach us that the only way in which we can shine so as to be useful to others is by burning, that is, by being spent, ourselves, Burning first, and then shining. We see this in the world around us. The light which a candle gives, how is it brought to pass? By the destruction of the candle itself. It must perish if it is to enlighten. Keep it without thus destroying it, and it is perfectly dark. S. John Baptist prepared himself for his work by self-denial and prayer when he was not in his work. And that is what we must all feel for ourselves. We are all so apt to think, when we are not engaged in God's active service, that we are doing nothing. You may fancy that living with nothing but a daily round of everyday little duties, you are not at work for God as you wish to be. Never was there a greater mistake. It is this very time, if you use it properly, that will give you strength for more active duties at other times. Only remember, you must be the burning light here also. No help for it. Every one that means to get to heaven must deny himself: you are to try and deny yourselves more and more. Every one who means to get to heaven must be spent: you must look to be more spent. And depend upon it, our true David, the Lord Jesus Christ, will not be less gracious to you if His faithful companions and soldiers than the first David was to his little band of followers.

Blessed reward Of each faithful endeavour, Christians with Christ shall be Soon—and for ever,