April 4

Faith, if it hath not works, is dead. — JAMES ii. 17.

For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. — MATT. xii. 50.

OUR Lord has made all the family relationships more sacred. The spirit which would dissolve them, which would dream of a holier life than that of the household, a discipline more sacred than that of a godly family, is contrary to the spirit of Christ. Through him we learn to love our kindred and friends with a nobler love. The Church is one great family, — sharers in the same parental care and heirs to a common inheritance. Jealousies may spring up between the fondest hearts, and the most passionate love may grow cool unless Christ purify it. He teaches us how to love brothers and sisters, and even our own children, aright. He bids the Church esteem men, not for rank or fashion, but because they belong to Christ.

Our Lord's dying words showed how dearly he loved his mother, and were a reflection of the love which she bestowed on his infant days. No mother was ever more tender and thoughtful; no child ever loved a mother so perfectly. There is no love like his; and he who possesses it will love his kindred better, and seek to win them to the brotherhood of Christ.

James Gardner Rose

Now I have found a friend

Whose love shall never end;

Jesus is mine.

Though earthly joys decrease,

Though human friendships cease,

Now I have lasting peace;

Jesus is mine.

HOPE.