August 3

"For to me to live is Christ."—Philippians 1:21.

DEATH will not be gain, unless life is Christ.

It must be my passion to know Christ. Every day I ought to learn a little more of His truth. Every day I ought to become somewhat more conversant with His will. In His school it is impossible for me ever to finish my education—there is so much to learn, there are such mysteries to master and such heights to scale.

It must be my ambition to follow Christ. Jesus waiting patiently in Mary's home for God's summons; Jesus going about doing good in the Galilean fields; Jesus praying on the cold mountains; Jesus bowing to the Father's will in the garden and on the cross—He is to be my Pattern, my Model, whom I set deliberately before me.

It must be my joy to speak with Christ. I should always be lifting up my heart to Him. I should keep telling Him my every thought, my every desire, my every misgiving and fear. Between friends so close and true there must be no reservations, no secrets. He is nearer than hands and feet.

It must be my longing to serve Christ. I cannot do it in a conspicuous sphere; but, up to the farthest verge and limit of my ability, I will labour for Him. And I rejoice to remember that mere bulk and publicity count for nothing with Him—the lowly and loving heart is everything.

And then, and then, death will be gain indeed. Then, much more blessedly than the hero whom Tacitus lauds, I shall be felix opportunitate mortis. "When He calls me," one said, "I shall go to Him with the gladness of a boy bounding home from school."