April 25

Be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh.—Matthew 24:44

AM I a waiting, as well as a working servant, ready for the coming of my Lord, no matter whether the time be distant or near at hand? Am I so clothed with his righteousness as to be fit to be received by him; and so diligent in his work, that he will own me as a good and faithful servant? Is the prospect of death, and of meeting Christ, one of apprehension, or of calm and trustful anticipation to me?

O Lord, let no business, no pleasures, no plans ever divert my thoughts from the world to come; but may I cheerfully part with all when thou mayest require it—BISHOP WILSON.

A wise man said to his disciples: "Turn to God one day before your death." "But," said they, "how can a man know the day of his death?" "Therefore," said he, "you should turn to God to-day; for perhaps you may die to-morrow. Thus every day will be employed in returning, and you will be always ready."

Traveler, see thy gracious day,

Swiftly drawing to its end;

Mend thy pace, pursue thy way,

E'er the shades of night descend.

Fear to lose a moment's space,

Watchful, earnest, hasten on;

And when death concludes thy race,

Dying, shout, "The work is done!"

Ready, faithful, ever be,

Till the Saviour call for thee!