January 16

Neither is there salvation in any other. — ACTS iv. 12.

I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. — JOHN xiv. 6.

THE heading of this chapter is, "Christ comforteth his disciples:" and truly he gives the best comfort simply by telling about himself. The first verse begins, "Let not your heart be troubled." This verse seems to say to doubting Thomas, "Let not your mind be troubled." It is a release from perplexity. Heaven often seems distant and unknown, but if he who made the road thither is our guide we need not fear to lose the way. We do not want to see far ahead, — only far enough to discern him and trace his footsteps. Christ does not give us the full revelations of God and heaven at once: we could not bear them now. He gives us himself, and in that gift everything is secure. If you own the mines you will not lack treasure. If the fountain is yours you will have water day by day. Our peace lies not in believing much, but in believing well. If our faith in him is unwavering he will return it with knowledge. The way to escape from doubts is to think about Christ. What we need is not explanation, but confidence. Sometimes we know not what to believe, but always we know whom we have believed. Religion is not a theory, nor a doctrine; it is the coming of a person to a person, by a person. They who follow Christ, even through darkness, will surely reach the Father.

Henry van Dyke

I was not ever thus, nor prayed that thou Should'st lead me on;

I loved to choose and see my path; but now Lead thou me on.

Keep thou my feet; I do not ask to see The distant scene, — one step enough for me.

CARDINAL NEWMAN.