June 29

Take heed therefore unto yourselves. — ACTS xx. 28.

The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here. — MATT. xii. 41.

THESE words of the Master teach that light measures responsibility, that obligation is commensurate with opportunity.

We of this generation may find a solemn joy in the fact that our opportunities and our obligations are unequalled. Not only is this the formative and decisive period in that portion of our country which is to determine the national destiny, but there is the quickening of a new intellectual life among the churchless multitude, which needs the moulding hand of the Church. Moreover, the door of opportunity, "great and effectual," is as wide as the world, for this is the first generation in man's history that has seen the whole world open to the gospel. The highways of commerce have been opened: channels of benefaction have been established: wealth has been amassed: and an intellectual revolution which seems to follow the touch of the nineteenth century is shattering traditional beliefs and preparing heathen nations, like the Ninevites, to receive the preachers of righteousness. We can now stretch out our hands in benediction over Asia and Africa.

The men of Christ's generation sinned above others in refusing to accept light. We of this generation shall sin above others if we refuse to give it.

Josiah Strong.

Be this my one great business here,

With serious industry and fear,

Eternal bliss to insure;

Thine utmost counsel to fulfil,

And suffer all thy righteous will,

And to the end endure.

C. WESLEY.