Note by Dr. Cunningham Geikie

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Dec 2, 1886

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 12, No. 46.

Note.

By Dr. Cunningham Geikie

The householder thus makes the first last, and the last first, because the first had been working for hire, while the others had simply trusted his promise. He who works in my kingdom for the sake of a reward hereafter, may do his work well, but he honors me less than others who trust me without thinking of future gain. The spirit in which you labor for me gives your service its value. He who is called late in life and serves me unselfishly, will stand higher at the great day than he who has served me longer, but with a less noble motive. Many are called to join my kingdom and work in it, but few show themselves by their spirit and zeal especially worthy of honor. If the first find themselves last, it will depend on themselves, for though no one can claim reward as his due in the kingdom of God, yet I give it of favor, to those first who serve me most purely. He, I repeat, who works most devotedly, without thought of reward, will be first, though, perhaps, last to be called; he will be chosen to honor, while others less zealous and loving, though earlier called, will remain undistinguished.