May 2

Thou rulest the raging of the sea. — PSALM ixxxix. 9.

Peace, be still. — MARK iv. 39.

IT was eventide. The setting sun perchance smiled a farewell, flooding the waters with golden light. The sky was cloudless. Gennesareth reposed in quiet loveliness, like Lucerne in Switzerland or beautiful Loch Lomond among the Scottish hills. The disciples were not afraid as they embarked. Suddenly the storm swept down upon them. The angry waves smote the little ship. Skilful hands plied the oars in vain. They were in jeopardy. Then, in answer to their cry, the Christ arose. It needed but a word: "Peace, be still." "There was a great calm."

And this is life. One hour all is bright and peaceful: the next the billows break over us, the desire of our hearts dies, human help avails nought. Within the soul itself are all the elements of unrest. When conscience convinces of sin, and memory recalls our selfishness and ingratitude, our own unworthiness is revealed. We are in despair.

Blessed be God, we have a sure refuge! He who calmed the troubled waters speaks peace to human hearts. His blood atones for every sin: his grace supplies every need. Begin, my soul, this day with a penitent, trustful prayer to him, and through its toilsome or suffering hours shall come the cheering refrain, "Peace, be still."

Edward A. Rees.

The wild winds hushed; the angry deep

Sank, like a little child, to sleep;

The sullen billows ceased to leap,

At thy will.

So, when our life is clouded o'er,

And storm-winds drift us from the shore,

Say, lest we sink to rise no more,

"Peace, be still."

GODFREY THRING