In this day of the multiplicity of good works, and of trusting to them for salvation, it may seem strange for us to urge their necessity.  But in speaking of those who lack the beautiful oneness in character and conduct which distinguished Jesus, we would not omit many who, having been educated in the full belief of the doctrine of “justification by faith,” carry it to such an extent as to despise good works, and almost to look upon them as heretical.  They set them down in their religious calendar as savoring of ostentation, and thus run into the opposite extreme, neglecting entirely the command of our Lord, to “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works.”  They take a one-sided view of truth and duty, forgetting that “he who shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so” (even by practice), shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven.  Could they but know, by sweet experience, the luxury of giving “even a cup of cold water in His name,” they would never again refrain from the blessed work.  Could they fully understand the words to be pronounced on the final day, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me,” no earthly inducement would be able to deter them from obtaining a part in that commendation and reward.  Did they but read with divine enlightening the parable of the good Samaritan, and hear the Master saying, “Go and do thou likewise,” what possible excuse would remain for them for not obeying his command?  They little realize that they may read and meditate and believe, and still remain very selfish and un-Christ-like; for if Christ had been possessed of their supineness, he would still have remained in heaven, and we and ours yet been in the bonds of wickedness.  Christian mothers have greatly erred in not training their children to a life of Christian self-denial and usefulness.  In their visits to the poor and perishing, they should early accustom their little ones to accompany them, thus overcoming that sensitive dread of misery in its various forms, so common to the young.  They would thus be laying up for them a good foundation against the time to come—­training them in the way they should go—­guiding their feet into the imitation of that blessed One whom they hope soon to see them following.  Of how many delightful hours have parents deprived their children, who have never taught them, by precept and example, the luxury of doing good!  How many gracious promises in God’s blessed word are yet sealed to them—­promises for time and for eternity!  Mothers, awake! to know more of Jesus, of his life, his example, and of the high and holy inducements which he holds out to you in his word, to be conformed to his image.

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Original.

LUX IN TENEBRAS; OR A CHAPTER OF HEART HISTORY.

BY GEORGIANA M. SYKES.