Christian Affection by Angelia J. Edmonds

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 24, 1866

Christian Affection.

By Angelia J. Edmonds

How the heart is soothed by little tokens of affection, when the cares and sorrows of this life press heavily upon us; then we feel to praise God, knowing that he has given us friends that can truly sympathize with us. Little feet, also, are more willing to come and go at our bidding, when we cease speaking unkind words and bestow the affectionate kiss.

Why should Christians be afraid to say, "I love you;" why afraid to demonstrate our affection. "He that loveth not, knoweth not God; for God is love." On the little word l-o-v-e hangs the whole plan of salvation. God so loved the world that he gave his Son to die for it. By so-doing, he proved to a certainty his love for us.

If a great, a noble, and a kind Redeemer, could humble himself and give his life for his enemies, whom he loved, why should we be ashamed to express by word or act the love we have for near and dear friends?

When brethren and sisters become cold and distant, when they lose their love for each other, sure they may be, that the love of God has nearly leaked out of their hearts.

Oh may we be filled to overflowing with the love of God, that when we meet together, our hearts may be united like two drops of water, which cannot be separated.

Then shall we see the hearty shake of the hand, the holy kiss, and falling tear. Then will each have a word of encouragement for the lone traveler in this world of care.

Let us seek to imitate the little child in holiness, purity, meekness, and simplicity. "Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of Heaven." "Whosoever, therefore, shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of Heaven."

Angelia J. Edmonds.

Newton, Mich.