Blessings of the Sabbath.
By D. T. Fero
The holy Sabbath of our God! How it comes to us freighted with rich blessings just as we need! With what gratitude should we remember this blessed institution of the Creator, who, when he had finished his work of creation in six days, "rested the seventh." "And God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because that in it he had rested from all his work, which God created and made." Thus has it come down to us a sanctified rest-day, just such as is needed in this world of toil and trouble. It brings with it rest, not only of body, but of mind. With what joy we hail it when weary with the labors and cares of the week. What a relief it brings! How soothing are its calm quiet hours, when we are enabled to lay aside the care and anxiety consequent upon the temporal duties that devolve upon us, giving our bodies that rest which is necessary to restore and invigorate them for coming labor, and enabling us to give our minds without molestation to holy pursuits which bring refreshment, strength, and new courage to do battle against the powers of darkness. Bless the Lord, O my soul, for the light of present truth, which embraces and holds out with such clearness the obligation imposed by the fourth commandment which has been trodden under foot so long. Thank God, it could not always thus remain. It is being redeemed by the instruments which God has chosen, from the oblivion into which those who have trampled upon it would gladly have it remain, and from the few who hold it in unrighteousness. It stands out clearly, surrounded by a halo of glory—the seal of the living God. Who would change it for a substitute? God forbid that any who have seen its truth should be so unwise. "Sweet day! thine hours too soon will cease,
Yet while they gently roll,
Breathe, heavenly Spirit, source of peace,
A Sabbath o'er my soul.
"When will my pilgrimage be done?
The world's long week be o'er?
That Sabbath dawn that needs no sun,
That day that fades no more."
D. T. Fero.
Nile, Allegany Co., N. Y.