Letters: Mrs. James Bonar, His Daughter-in-Law (1)
The speaker reflects on a life well-lived, the joy of knowing Christ, and the importance of meaningful relationships.
Andrew Bonar reflects on the passage of time and the nearing end of his life, expressing a hopeful outlook towards the future while acknowledging the sadness of looking back. He emphasizes that knowing Christ enhances our experience of heaven on earth and wishes for peace and usefulness for his daughter-in-law Mary and her husband James in the coming year. Bonar also humorously comments on a post-card case designed by them, appreciating its practicality and brevity, which he likens to James' concise letters.
Text
GLASGOW, 29th Decr. 1884.
MY DEAR MARY,--
'Along the river of time we glide,
The swiftly flowing resistless tide !'
Only think! the year is nearly done, and I have lived seventy-four years in this world, and must be getting near the edge of the wilderness. But the prospect on before is very bright--the sadness is all in looking back. The more we know of Christ here, the more of heaven we enjoy here.
May you and James have many a year of peace and usefulness! May 1885 be the best and happiest you have known. . . .
Was it you or James that designed the post-card case? At any rate let me thank you for it: (1) Inasmuch as it is very useful. (2) It may be regarded as a hint from James that I need not write him any letter longer than a post-card. (3) It is so characteristic of his epistles, brief; though no doubt pithy!
We are all well. Some of us will be writing to James and to you, before the New Year comes in, or to wish you all blessing when it does arrive.--
Meanwhile, dear Mary, believe me, your affectionate father,
ANDREW A. BONAR.
Sermon Outline
- The Passing of Time
- The Joy of Knowing Christ
- Personal Matters
- Gratitude for Thoughtful Gestures
- Humor and Wit in Family Life
Key Quotes
“''Along the river of time we glide, The swiftly flowing resistless tide !''” — Andrew Bonar
“The more we know of Christ here, the more of heaven we enjoy here.” — Andrew Bonar
Application Points
- Reflect on the passing of time and the prospect of eternity, finding joy in knowing Christ.
- Cultivate meaningful relationships with loved ones, just as James and Mary have done through thoughtful gestures.
- Emphasize the importance of brief yet meaningful communication in personal and family life.