July 5

The words were found, and I did eat them. — JER. xv. 16.

Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. — JOHN vi. 26.

THE miracles should have convinced the Galileans that Jesus of Nazareth is the Saviour of the world. This was their design. After he had seen a few of them, Nicodemus of Jerusalem made a distinct confession. But these Galileans were gross and sensual in their desires. Food without work was an attraction. Curiosity was aroused. The material advantages of our Lord's ministry were welcome. Like the Roman soldiers who crucified him and then divided his garments, they were glad to accept all that he would give, while they were unwilling to accept him. Thus they announced their own condemnation. In refusing salvation they ultimately lost every blessing.

Their mistake is constantly repeated. Men "eat of the loaves" and still reject the Saviour. Freedom, civilization, home, the Sabbath, — these are all the miracles of our Lord. No one would wish to live away from them. Life is not worth much if it is not within sound of the church bell. But these things cannot save; they are evidences of a Saviour's presence. They are not the Saviour; he, and he alone, can save, and the silent appeal of these precious blessings is an urgent entreaty to accept his salvation. Have you found the Saviour, or are you satisfied to "eat of the loaves"?

Henry M. Booth

Break thou the bread of life, dear Lord, to me, As thou didst break the loaves beside the sea. Beyond the sacred page I seek thee, Lord, My spirit pants for thee, O living Word!

MARY A. LATHBURY.