From hence then we may further learn,
1. How to estimate the things of time —
[Our blessed Lord has taught us this effectually by his example. Though he was the Maker and Proprietor of all things, he chose to dwell in a more destitute condition than the beasts of the field or the fowls of the air, even without any stated place where to repose his head. By this he has shewn what an empty worthless portion riches are ; and how contented the poor should be with their humble lot. He has
u 2
shewn, that to serve, and honour, and enjoy God is the most desirable state on earth ; and that whether we have a larger or smaller portion inour way to heaven, is scarcely worth a thought. To follow him is our one duty, and should be our one concern. If we have much of this world, we should serve him with it ; and if but little, we should live, like the birds of the air, in a cheerful dependence on his good providence''; contented equally " to abound, or to suffer need ;" and feeling that when we ■' have nothing, we are reall}' possessing all things."]
2. How to act in reference to eternity —
[The thought of eternity must, so to speak, swallow up every other. We must make no account of any thing that is to be sacrificed, or any thing that is to be endured, in the ser- vice of our God ; but must devote ourselves to him without hesitation and without reserve. If, like the disciple in the text, we are called to preach the Gospel of the kingdom, we should shew what exalted thoughts we have of the ministerial office, by our self-denying diligence in the discharge of it. We should " not seek great things for ourselves," or " entangle ourselves with the affairs of this life," but be contented with less of this world's goods, that we may be more at liberty to advance the interests of our Redeemer and the welfare of his Church and people. But, whatever be our station in the world, we are equally called to " follow Christ ;" and on our obedience to that call our eternal happiness depends. I say not, that we should neglect our civil or social duties ; for God commands us to perform them with all diligence: but I do say, that where the concerns of time and eternity interfere with each other, we must labour, " not for the meat thatperisheth, but for that which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give unto us."]
»> Matt. vi. 26.