July 3

So shall we ever be with the Lord. — 1 THESS. iv. 17.

In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself: that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. — JOHN xiv. 2-4.

HOW clear and satisfying a view of the life to come is presented in these words of our Saviour's! So positive an affirmation of its reality from the lips of one who came forth from God puts to silence the denials of unbelief. All speculations respecting the future state are valueless to those who have looked upon this picture of home life beyond the grave. How cheering in view of earthly conflicts, and what a stimulus to untiring activity in Christian work!

Into this land of many mansions, or abiding places, the Lord has gone as the head and representative of ransomed humanity. Our hope, as an anchor of the soul, is sure and steadfast, entering into that which is within the veil, whither the forerunner has for us entered, even Jesus. There he reigns for the overthrow of sin; and when he has accomplished his purpose of mercy in the hearts and through the agency of his faithful followers, he receives them to himself that they may share his glory.

Nor need any one go astray. Christ is the way. Trustful reliance upon him and his finished work will secure all the blessings that are wrapped up in the terms, Home and Father.

R.M. Sommerville.

Well, the delightful day will come,

When my dear Lord will bring me home.

And I shall see his face.

Then with my Saviour, brother, friend,

A blest eternity I'll spend,

Triumphant in his grace.

SAMUEL MEDLEY.