channel which evidently does connect it with the sea. This Lake Selawik serves as a good example for believers in Christ. Like this warm lake in the midst of the Arctic cold, Christianity is an upspring- ing fountain of warmth and blessing. There is a never-freezing hope main taining its life and comfort in the midst of a frigid atmosphere caused by the world’s sin and despair. The Lord Je sus, our Saviour, is the fountain of joy and expectancy for the world. We echo with the apostle Paul, “Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.” * * * The more we count the blessings we have, the less we crave the luxuries we haven't. * * * WHO HE IS Jesus Christ was bom in the poorest of circumstances but the air above was filled with the “Hallelujah’s” of heav enly host. His lodging was a cattle pen, but a star drew distinguished visi tors from afar to do Him homage and to present Him with rich gifts. His birth was contrary to the laws of life, while His death contrary to the laws of death. No miracle is so inex plicable as His life and teaching. He had no com fields or fisheries but He could spread a table for 5,000 and have bread and fish to spare. He walked on the waters and they supported Him. His crucifixion was a crime of crimes but on God’s side no lower price than His infinite agony could have made possible our redemption. When He died few men mourned, but a black crepe was hung over the sun. Though men trembled not for their sins, the earth beneath shook under the load. All na ture honored Him, sinners alone re jected Him. He preached His gospel for only three and one-half years. He wrote no book, built no church, had no money back of Him. A fter more than 1900 years, He is the one central character of human history, the perpetual theme of all preaching, the pivot around which the events of the ages revolve, the only regenerator of the sinful human race. Was it merely the son of Joseph and Mary who crossed the world’s horizon two millennia ago? Was it merely hu man blood that was spilled on Calvary’s
hill for the redemption of sinners and which has worked such wonders in men and nations through the centuries? What thinking man can keep from tru ly exclaiming, “My Lord and my God!” —K eith L. B rooks * * * We often go wrong by debating with God instead of waiting upon God. * * * LOVE FOR THE LORD In a day and age when divorce is so prevalent, it’s encouraging to see hus bands and wives who have a real love and concern for each other. One such dedicated man felt compelled to go to his pastor and confess, “I don’t know whether it’s possible; however, I’m afraid I’m loving my wife too much. Perhaps I ’ve put her on too high a pedestal. Do you think this is a sin in God’8 sight?” The wise man of faith counseled, “Let me ask you, do you think you love your vnfe more than Christ loved the church?” The young man thought about that a moment and then realized that no mere human could have such love and compassion. The pastor continued, “The Bible ex horts us, ‘Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it.’ Until you can say you have a love like that for your life partner, you need not worry!” He was right, of course, with devotion focused in the proper perspective and direction. The reverse is generally true that men don’t show their wives the proper love and respect they deserve. Scripture reminds us that God has put the solitary into families. The reason is far more than simply to propagate the human race, but rather to be a spiritual witness to those about us who need Jesus Christ as Saviour. It * * It's unfortunate that the first half of life is spent in longing for the second, while the second is spent in regretting the first. * * * GOD’S TREE OF LIGHT What a blessed and joyous season of year this is! Unfortunately, there are some who would try to misapply Scrip ture so that they can militate against Christmas. For instance, consider the trees which adorn most homes, hand somely lit and beautifully decorated. 22
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