The Glories of Heaven by S. Elmer

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Oct 20, 1863

The Glories of Heaven.

By S. Elmer

I WOULD say to those who are surrounded by temptations, and who have passed through severe trials and conflicts, that I can sympathise with them; for often have I been called to pass through the deep waters of affliction. But I will not dwell upon trials, but rather point to the glories that await the Christian. If faithful, our sufferings will soon be ended, and we be forever at rest. Yes, our Saviour will soon appear. O, glorious thought! O, happy day! What a rest after so many toils and sufferings! What triumphant shouts shall burst forth from the redeemed of earth as they behold the unnumbered millions leaving their dusty beds, all blooming with immortal beauty! Parents recognize their children; brothers and sisters, friends and neighbors, there shall meet never more to be parted. And as they wing their way through the broad expanse of heaven, led on by the angelic host, no words can describe the emotions that will fill each breast. Then will they behold the New Jerusalem rising in all its beauty and grandeur. There stand the lofty turrets and spires of gold. There the jasper walls, whose beauteous colors the rainbow's hues outvie. O, will they not feel recompensed for their sufferings here, as the gates of pearl are unfolded and they enter the city? The golden pavement resounds with the immortal tread of the countless multitude. Their palms wave, their crowns glitter, while songs of sweetest melody echo and re-echo through all the mansions of the blest.

Shall we be there to share in the joys of heaven? and pluck the ambrosial fruit from life's fair tree? and gaze on those sparkling waters as they murmur at our feet? It is indeed a soul-cheering thought, and one that should stimulate to the greatest diligence, to think of the glories reserved for the faithful, and that they are so soon to be revealed.

S. ELMER.

Ashfield, Mass.