August 22

E obtained mercy, because E did it ignorantly.

I TIM. i. 13.

Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. — LUKE xxiii. 34.

IS this a prayer for my soul? Yes, if I am still among the enemies of the cross, and yet know not what I am doing. It was answered in a few hours for one who railed on him, and for another who was in command of his execution; and in a few days for thousands who were more guilty still. It may be answered for my soul now, but it can be answered in only one way, — by purging my conscience from its ignorance, by pricking me to the heart, and by giving me repentance.

Perhaps the reader is now first enlightened, and made partaker of the Holy Spirit, and tastes the good Word of God, and thus knows for the first time that a sinful life is crucifying the Son of God afresh, and putting him to an open shame. Then this is the solemn hour to be renewed unto repentance and forgiveness.

Wolcott Ballcas.

Still our Advocate in heaven,

Prays the prayer on earth begun:

"Father, show their sins forgiven;

Father, glorify thy Son."

C. WESLEY.