THE CHILDREN'S FORGIVENESS

Everyone who reads these lines must remember at some time having to say words like these, 'Mother, I am sorry, please forgive me'. From the depths of her love mother can say, 'Alright, I will forgive you, never mind'. But although – and indeed because – God is Himself love there must be a work, besides a word, before forgiveness can righteously be granted and known by the sinner. That work is the work of atonement, or covering of sins, which Jesus came to do and completed to the glory of God. By reason of this work God forgave repentant sinners of ancient times and its virtue will last for time and eternity.

I have read that there is a most beautiful view of the Bay of Naples from the summit of Vesuvius but that some people who climb the mountain do not enjoy the view. Why do they not? Because the mountain is a volcano and there are strange rumbling noises and quiverings of the earth. Also from deep in the mountain's burning bosom comes hot acid smoke so that some people doubt their safety. They are too occupied with thoughts of their own danger to enjoy the scenery. No sinners can enjoy the wonderful prospects of divine grace and glory spread out in the Scriptures until they know themselves safely in the place of forgiveness before God.

David, in a Psalm, said that "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us". One could travel east or west for any length of time: they never meet. I have heard it said in preaching that Scripture is wise not to speak of north and south. As soon as anyone reaches the farthest point north there is nothing to do but go south! God does not forget our sins which would be weakness, but He remembers them no more which is the power of His love. Do you enjoy His forgiving love?

J.C.Evershed