October 4

PART II.—Hebrews 9:16.

LET us briefly contemplate the dignity and greatness of our testator. Our testator is the true Son of God, the heir of all things, the Lord of angels, and the Prince of glory. His glories are infinite, his riches imperishable, and his kingdom ruleth over all. Then, also, consider the goodness and love of this testator. This will be seen, if we reflect upon the objects of his regards — objects worthless, poor, and wretched, without any claim or merit to any thing except his wrath and severe displeasure. Then consider the sacrifices he made for their well-being. For their sakes, although incomparably happy and rich, yet he became the man of sorrows, the child of poverty, and the victim of death. As our Mediator, he had the inheritance to purchase with his own precious blood, before he could bequeath it to us. And then reflect upon the legacy itself. How suited to our exigencies—just what the immortal spirit of man requires—exactly adapted to supply our present need, and to meet all our immortal desires. Then, how vast and glorious in its extent!—a legacy which shall enrich myriads of immortal souls—a legacy of unsearchable riches of grace, and of boundless riches of glory. Then consider, finally, the perpetuity of this legacy. He does not bestow fading treasures—an inheritance which may be exhausted, or fall into other hands, but a crown of glory, that fadeth not away—an inheritance incorruptible—a mansion, not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. Have we come to God, by faith in his Son, and obtained a title to this inconceivably rich and glorious legacy? If so, then we have received the earnest into our hearts, even his holy Spirit, who testifies to our adoption, and who hath anointed and sealed us as the heirs of eternal life. If so, the testator will be the object of our supreme love, and his testament will be frequently and gratefully read, and the inheritance will be the subject of our constant joyous anticipation and delight.

"Then let our songs abound, And every tear be dry; We're marching through Immanuel's ground To fairer worlds on high."