made in the likeness of men : and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself." (1 Pet. v. 5 ; Luke xviii. 14 ; Phil. ii. 5 — 8.) Well would it be for the Church if this very simple truth was more remembered, and real humility was not so sadly rare. Perhaps there is no sight so displeasing in God's eyes as a self-conceit- ed, self-satisfied, self-contented, stuck-up professor of religion. Alas, it is a sight only too common ! Yet the words which St. John here records have never been repealed. They will be a swift witness against many at the last day, except they repent.
Lo>i e is manifestly the other part of the great prac- tical lesson. Our Lord would have us love others so much that we should delight to do anything which can promote their happiness. We ought to rejoice in doing kindnesses, even in little things. We ought to count it a pleasure to lessen sorrow and multiply joy, even when it costs us some self-sacrifice and self-denial. We ought to love every child of Adam so well, that if in the least trifle we can do anything to make him more happy and comfortable, we should be glad to do it. This was the mind of the Master, and this the ruling principle of His conduct upon earth. There are but few who walk in His steps, it may be feared ; but these few are men and women after His own heart.
The lesson before us may seem a very simple one ; but its importance can never be overrated. Humility and love are precisely the graces which the men of the world can understand, if they do not comprehend doctrines. They are graces about which there is no mystery, and they are within reach of all classes. The poorest and most ignorant Christian can every day find occasion for practicing love and humility. Tlien if we would do good to the world, and make our calling and election sure, let no man forget our Lord's example in