December 26

"Then Samuel took a stone, and set it between Mizpeh and Shen, and called the name of it Eben-exer."—1 Samuel 7:12.

I DO not read that any traveller in the Holy Land has discovered a trace of Samuel's Ebenezer pillar. But the story of it is written in the Book of the Wars of the Lord. In these last days I can still gather its lessons of impulse. If I am God's child, what does it say to me—the great stone between Mizpeh and Shen?

This first: Be mindful of the glorious past. He has done marvellous things for you. He saved you when you were on the verge of destruction. He sustains you, changing even burdens into wings which help you heavenward. O strong, sweet grace of God, with which He has made you conversant!

And then: Be thankful in the brightened present. Where is your trophy, your pillar with its inscription, your monument? Your lips should be singing His praise. Your conversation should be recounting His mercies. Your life should be devoted to His service, Bless Him, and forget not all His benefits.

And finally: Be hopeful for the unknown future. He will never fail you; He will never forsake you. As a good man wrote three centuries ago: "Not if every grain of dust were an Ahithophel, and gave counsel against us; not if every sand on the shore were a Rabshakeh, and railed against us; not if every atom in the air were a Satan; not if every drop in the sea were an Abaddon, an Apollyon; there would be no condemnation, if He is my witness."

It is this threefold legend which I read on Samuel's pillar. And every part of the legend is full of significance for me.