When the shadow of this world is deep, and the heart is sad through unspoken grief, it is a solace to know that Jesus is near. When wasting care makes life a burden, and heavy thoughts oppress the spirit, how priceless is the truth that we shall soon be changed, and caught up to be for ever with the Lord.
When we are hopelessly separated from those we love, and the chill of worldly friendship surrounds us, how inspiring is the expectation of the return of Him whom our soul loveth.
When the sleep of death enchains the lovely and the cherished, and the tomb answereth not the wail of the mourner, how sweet is the voice from heaven, "Behold I am the resurrection and the life, and I come quickly."
Yes, the precious promise of the immediate coming of Jesus is the true and only solace of these degenerate times, and the balm for every wound. It is the hidden spring of peace within many a weary breast, and supports the trembling feet of those who are ready to perish through oppression and woe. There is no path so dreary, no cup so bitter, and no cell so dark with despair, but that this glory can illuminate and sweeten with a joy unspeakable. Who then among the weary children of earth will not hail such a hope? Who will not exult in such a prospect, and lift up the head and rejoice, because redemption draweth nigh? —Mid. Cry, 1844.