September 2

If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink. — John 7:37.

On the last day of the feast of tabernacles, it was common for the worshippers to fetch water from the pool of Siloam, part of which they drank with great joy, while the rest was poured out on the altar, in remembrance of the waters supplied to their fathers from the rock in the wilderness. Jesus therefore availed himself of this occasion, and addressed the people, and said, "If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink." Now our attention is called to several interesting particulars. The speaker on this occasion is Jesus. "Jesus stood up and cried." And it was for this very end that he visited our perishing world, that he might confer upon its inhabitants everlasting life. Never was so dignified a speaker heard. Never did any speaker possess the authority, the power, or the goodness of Jesus. His resources are infinite, and they are all resources of mercy and grace. Of him it is said, that "He is full of grace and truth." And again it is said, that in him "all fulness dwells." Then notice the commodity he offers. It is living waters. Not the natural fluid so called, but spiritual drink, that which is adapted to the mind, that which satisfies the thirsty soul. The figure obviously refers to the influence of the Spirit, for it is added, "this he spake of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive." Now as water cools and refreshes, and is essential to natural life, so the Holy Spirit allays the irritation of the mind, and fills the soul with all the refreshing blessings of peace, and is essential to spiritual existence and happiness. Have we received the Holy Spirit into our hearts? Have we experienced the establishment of that kingdom within us, which is not meat and drink, but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost? "For if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his."