December 29

"Blessed is that servant whom his lord, when he cometh, shall find so doing." Matthew 24:46.

IN the chapter from which these words are selected, two grand and solemn events are noticed: the destruction of Jerusalem, with all the awful signs that preceded it; that is past — and the second advent of the Saviour; that is to come. Let us contemplate

THE EVENT ANTICIPATED. The coming of our Lord to judgment. This shall be preceded by the universal spread of divine truth. We look forward to a day when the powers of darkness shall be destroyed, and the fetters of superstition shall be broken; when peace shall universally prevail, and wars and fightings cease; and the hopes we thus cherish are not the delusions of a disordered imagination; we know him that hath said, "All nations shall serve him." His coming to judgment shall be with solemn grandeur. He shall come as a conqueror, triumphing over sin, death, and hell; the clouds shall be his chariot, and the archangel his herald to announce his approach. It shall be universal. "Every eye shall see him;" the fact of his coming is sure, though the period is uncertain.

THE CONDUCT APPLAUDED. "So doing." This refers to verse 45, where the Christian is represented as a faithful and wise servant, whom his Lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season. This conduct includes a diligent attention to our own spiritual concerns. This is of the highest importance; and we cannot be too strict in our investigation of the real and actual state of our souls before God. Perhaps we have long made a profession of religion; it becomes us to inquire as to what we possess; where is our faith, love, hope, heavenly-mindedness, and other Christian graces? An anxiety for the welfare of others. We are not to ask, "Am I my brother's keeper?" but to do good to all as we have opportunity. Religion teaches the truest and purest philanthropy. Zeal for the glory of God. If the fire of divine love is kindled in the breast, the flames of Christian zeal will be seen issuing in all directions. Our motto should be, "Do all to the glory of God." The happiness secured. This is evidently involved in the blessing pronounced, "Blessed is that servant;" he is blessed with all spiritual blessings in life and death, in time and eternity. This happiness includes an interest in the divine protection, a share in the divine approbation, and the eternal enjoyment of the divine presence in heaven.