To many it seems strange and fanatical, that the people of God should rejoice in view of the near approach of the King of kings. If they hope even that they are prepared to meet him, ought they not to compassionate the case of a guilty world, and even their own dear friends? The Lord hath said, "I will not give my glory to another, nor my praise to graven images;" "and he that forsaketh not all he hath, cannot be my disciple."
Fervent love constrains the joy in hope, that "He whose right it is," will soon reign in triumph. With such sympathy as we have not been wont to feel, would we invite others to lay hold of this glorious hope.
Heed not the voice of slander and ridicule—thus might you lose your soul. Wait not to see if we are mistaken, lest it be forever too late. Forsake the pleasures of sin by penitence and faith, lest they be changed for vials of impending wrath. Would you make this earth your stay? Alas! its elements shall melt with fervent heat, and the works therein be burned up! And is there nothing to dread in the fearful, pangs of the second death, the sure wages of a sinful life? Is there no attraction in that renewed earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness—when He who once died to redeem you, will reign in glory, transcending the sun in brightness, and all who have lived godly, suffering persecution; they who are purified and made white, have renounced their pride and become meek, shall also reign with him. Have you no friend of that happy number? O, partake with him this everlasting joy; 'tis sweet, 'tis pure, 'tis holy, 'tis free—whosoever will let him partake of the water of life freely."—Selected.