Fathers and Mothers in Israel.
By M. J. B.
Where are the nurses in Israel? Many a lamb of Christ’s fold has perished for want of their care. I don’t refer to those who have been years and years in the way, and still walk as babes. It is time that such learned to walk alone. But where are the fathers and mothers in Israel? What is the reason that parents leave their own children to grope and stumble along in the way? or, perchance, when trying to find the way, leave them with never an encouraging word? Why, I ask, should this be so? Fathers, mothers, who loves your children more than you love them? Who knows better their peculiar traits of character? If you love Jesus, can you not speak to your children of this love? Can you not urge them to come to Christ? Can you not help them over the bars Satan raises by his ever-ready suggestions? Oh, the youth! my heart aches for them, especially for those who have fathers and mothers in the way, whose lips are sealed on the thrilling theme of religion, at least when alone with their children. Shall the anguished cry go up to Heaven from such children, “No one to help me”? These words, these very words, were said in my hearing by one who, I supposed, had the best of help in a godly mother; and I do not question that mother’s relationship with Christ. But why can she not teach her child how to trust in Jesus? With Satan’s cunning artifices upon every side, our young disciples, especially those young in years, need careful training, lest they be deceived—need tender nursing, lest they faint and die. Fathers, mothers, awake to the fearful danger of your children. Were they unconsciously approaching, in their thoughtless, youthful sports, some terrible chasm or unseen pit, you would not leave the business of warning and watching them to another. Then why leave their eternal interests for others to look after, and placidly hope they will come out right? Never shall I forget an incident that occurred in my own childhood. During a very solemn meeting at my father’s house, my heart was touched; and while others prayed and wept before the Lord, my father’s ear caught the sound of sobs from his little daughter. Coming to me and kneeling by my side, I heard his lips whisper a prayer; and then he asked me if I wanted to be a Christian. I told him yes, and then he asked if he should request the prayers of the brethren for me. Of course, a timid eight-year-old child was glad of this; and ever after, father was nearer and dearer to me. Parents, come nearer to your children in spiritual things. Watch for the first teachings Heavenward, and then gently teach them how to clasp their tendrils upon Christ. Teach them how to fasten upon Jesus, and watch for their souls while you watch for others. God bless the children.