THE SOON COMING OF OUR LORD.
By L. W. Axton, Jr.
To the faithful servants of Jesus Christ these words are fraught with sweetest music. What the first pink flush of the dawning morn is to the night-lost traveler; what the sound of a friendly voice is to one in trouble amid an unknown people; what the announcement of a coming pardon is to a weary prisoner,—all this and much more is the meaning of Paul’s brief announcement, “The Lord is at hand.” Watchman, what of the night?—“Dark, dark,” comes the answer. Mind not the darkness, watchman. Heed not the blackness. A Star is soon to appear, whose light shall shine until heaven and earth and all things are bathed in his glory. “The Lord is at hand.” Soldier, what of the fight?—“It presses hard. I grow exhausted: the enemy is increasing rapidly. Men are falling on every side. Satan smiles. His triumph seems certain.” Nay, soldier, nay. Take courage. Hold high the royal banner. Help is coming. The tide of battle will soon turn. In a little while we shall triumph. Our cause shall be crowned with victory. Sound out the good news among the shattered ranks. Let the call re-echo, clear and loud, “The Lord is at hand.” Sinner, what of your soul?—“Why, all is well; life’s days are sweet, and many joys are mine; I care for naught. I am happy.” O sinner, why wilt thou die? God is not willing that any should perish. Your race is almost run. The spark of life is nearly extinguished. Hark! already the sound of the coming judgment reaches our ears. See! already the brightness of his glory can be faintly seen. Soon every knee shall bow; soon shall his name be exalted above every name. Sinners, Jesus died for you, for all. Are you his through his blood? He is coming for his own—for those who trust him. Are you one of them? “The Lord is at hand.”