p. 165 | HEAVEN LOST by S. Elmer

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Oct 9, 1860

HEAVEN LOST.

By S. Elmer

No finite mind can conceive the full and fearful import of these words; but solemn as they may sound, millions will have to realize their awful reality. Could we be admitted through the gates of pearl and gaze on that city of pure gold; could we behold its foundations as they are, garnished with all manner of precious stones, with varied hues all glittering with the most

beautiful colors, and fasten our eyes on those shining spires and lofty turrets of the New Jerusalem; would we stand by the crystal river and listen to the sweet music of its sparkling waters as they murmur at our feet, and then view that fadeless tree blooming in all its beauty, filled with its luxuriant fruit; could we be permitted to behold and realize the full reward of the righteous—those beautiful mansions which the Saviour has gone to prepare—the starry crowns and spotless robes: then could we join the redeemed in their songs of praise and adoration to the Lamb as the sweet music echoes and re-echoes through those mansions of the blessed, and lastly be permitted to gaze on Him whose bright and excellent glory far exceeds the light of the sun, then could we realize what it is to lose heaven.

Should the eyes of any who are enemies to the truth fall on these lines, let me entreat you to consider your ways, and delay not to keep all the holy and just requirements of God. Are you willing for the short-lived treasures of this earth, groaning under the weight of cruel suffering, subject to disappointment and death, to lose all hopes of heaven? Are you willing to forfeit the favor of God, exchange eternal life for the pleasures of a world like this, and at last suffer the pangs of the second death? Are there any who once walked in the light of present truth, turned back and joined in the fashions and pleasures of earth? O, be entreated to turn while mercy still lingers. You have no time to lose. Soon it may be said of you as it was concerning Ephraim, “Let them alone, they are joined to their idols.” Are you a son or a daughter, and are your parents, who were once rejoicing because you were walking in the path of obedience, now lamenting the course you have since taken? O grieve not their care-worn hearts! How can you bring sorrow to those who have watched over you from the earliest period of your infancy until now? Could you but witness their groans and tears as they pour forth fervent prayers to their heavenly Father in your behalf, surely your heart would be moved. Consider, too, you are injuring the cause of your blessed Redeemer. Look away to Calvary! Behold Him groaning, bleeding and dying for you! O, wondrous love! And are these the returns you make? Will you still continue to wander from him? Is this your kindness to your best friend? Look around you; all things here are soon to vanish away; the dividing line is soon to be drawn. Can you bear the thought of being separated from your parents and be consigned to the regions of despair and death, with no sweet hope of heaven? Are you a parent? Have you turned from the holy commandment once delivered unto you? Remember the Lord holds you accountable for the way you teach your children. You are to lead them in paths of righteousness. “Thy law,” says David, “is righteousness.” Most diligently are you commanded to teach them the way of God’s commands. Hast thou a companion? How she mourns in secret places for you. O, hasten and heal those wounds. Instruct and comfort those children. By the way thou camest turn again, thou shalt thou walk securely, and the Most High shall be your rock, your fortress and deliverer.

A few words to those like myself, who have waded through the deep waters of affliction. Press forward! let hope inspire you on your way. The long dreary night is fast wearing away. Soon will dawn that bright morning that ushers in one eternal day. Dry up those tears! Behold thy Deliverer comes! What if we are of that number that have come up out of great tribulation? If we have washed our robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, all will be well at last; and while heaven is lost to the sinner, we can with all the ransomed millions exclaim, Heaven is gained, we are home at last!

S. ELMER.

Ashfield, Mass., Sept. 30, 1860.