A Worker in the Vineyard.
By Nellie F. Heal
HAVE we heard the voice of the Master saying, "Why stand ye here all the day idle? Go ye also into the vineyard." Surely the harvest-field is wide, and there is work enough for all, even the humblest. None need to say, There is nothing that I can do. If we are tempted to say and to think this, we should know that it is a deception of Satan, for it is his aim to hinder the work; and he would gladly have us think that we can do nothing. If we feel our lack of ability and our limited means wherewith to work for God, instead of listening to the suggestions of Satan to indolence and inaction, we should earnestly pray that our divine Helper would give us grace and wisdom to become efficient workers in his cause. True, we may not be able to accomplish any great work, but we can be diligent to perform the humble duties that await us. All cannot become great or eloquent, all cannot preach, all are not gifted in conversation, and perhaps have not a large sphere of influence; but all can do something. All can work in the vineyard to the extent of the ability that God has given, and this is all that he requires. Much will be required of those to whom much is given. Those who have received ten talents should remember with gratitude the glorious Giver, and return to him a corresponding increase. Have we but one talent? We too should be thankful and return the same with usury. All can work for God by developing a Christ-like character, with humility and patience and self-sacrificing love for the truth. The noble enterprise of the Tract and Missionary Society has made it possible for all to become true missionaries in disseminating the truth to others. In this work none can be excused. And is it not an honor, a privilege, to be a worker in the vineyard? a co-worker with God, with Christ, and angels? Though ever so humble a worker, it is an honor to thus co-operate with the Saviour of lost men in his work of redeeming love. It is a mission worthy of our highest ambition. "He that winneth souls is wise." It is true wisdom that winneth souls to Christ. And for every soul eternally saved, will there not shine a star within the glittering crown that decks the Saviour's brow? Work on then, work on, not for earthly gain or honor, but from love to Christ and souls for whom he gave his precious life; from a desire to promote his glory and to enter into his joy; and from the crown that waits the faithful workers in their "home over there." May the Saviour impart to us all a large measure of his own spirit of love and sacrifice, and, if many times our work should seem to us fruitless, we need not faint or grow weary. "Be ye not weary in well-doing; for in due time ye shall reap if ye faint not." The seeds of truth we scatter in human hearts may yet spring up and bear fruit unto eternal life. And if through our effort and influence one soul is saved, and meets us at God's right hand, how great will be our joy. Now, is the time to labor, to watch and pray. Soon the faithful workers will enter into rest. "Behold I come quickly; and my reward is with me to give every man according as his work shall be." NELLIE F. HEALD.