In the fourth place, our Lord shows His disciples that in discharging their duty to their neighboursy they should look to the example of Ood, If they called liiemselves '^ children of the Highest/' tiiey should consider that their Father is "kind to the unthankful and the evil," and they should learn from Him to he merciful, even as He is merciful. The extent of God's unacknowledged mercies to man can never be reckoned up. Every year he pours benefits on millions who do not honour the hand from which they come, or thank the Giver of them. Yet every year these benefits are continued. " Seed time and harvest, sununer and winter, never cease." His mercy endureth for ever. His loving-kindness is imwearied. His com- passions fail not. So ought it to be with all who profess themselves to be His children. Thanklessness and in- gratitude should not make them slack their hands from works of love and mercy. Like their Father in heaven, they should never be tired of doing good.
In the last place, our Lord assures His disciples that the practice of the high standard of charity He recommends shall bring its ovm reward, " Judge not," He says, " and ye shall not be judged : condemn not, and ye sh£ill not be condemned : forgive, and ye shall be forgiven : give, and it shall be given unto you." And He concludes with the broad assertion, " With the same measure that ye mete withal, shall it be measured to you again." The general meaning of these words appears to be, that no man shall ever be a loser, in the long run, by deeds of self- denying charity, and patient long-suffering love. At times he may seem to get nothing by his conduct. He may appear to reap nothing but ridicule, contempt, and,