Today

The year 1896 is upon us, and we heartily wish that the happiness which really abides—the happiness which flows from the knowledge and service of God—may be the continual portion of all our readers.

Some who perused our pages a twelve-month since have passed from our midst into the company of their Lord. They looked upon the first number of Scattered Seed for 1895, now they look upon Christ’s blessed face, and delight in His presence. Others, we fear, have had to meet God without forgiveness, without salvation, without Christ. They heard the joyful message, they read the good news, and they meant to be converted; but, alas! they have been cut off in their sins.

And you and I are ever being pressed forward. One day at a time we speed on our way to eternity; little by little, the record of our lives is carried to the judgment-seat. Shall we not pause a moment on the threshold of the New Year, and ask ourselves—

“WHERE SHALL I SPEND THAT ETERNITY?”

“What account shall I render to God?”

Only the present is ours, and even it is hurrying from our grasp. Now alone is with us, whether for salvation or for service. May we seek to employ today aright, for

“Tomorrow, tomorrow, and tomorrow,

Creeps in this petty pace from day to day.

To the last syllable of recorded time.”

Use today for salvation, dear unsaved reader. God’s heart is full of grace towards you, and Christ’s work is full of power to cleanse you from your sin. Draw near, then, as a poor bankrupt sinner, and you shall find fullest forgiveness and blessing.

Use today to do the will of God, dear believer. You and I are permitted to remain on earth, that we may perform His pleasure. May we live for this today and ever.

Sinner, “Today, if ye will hear His voice, harden not your heart” (Heb. 4:7).

Believer, hear the voice of your Saviour and Lord saying, “Son, go work today in My vineyard” (Matt. 21:28).

I.Fleming

Scattered Seed 1896