"THE TRUE MISSION OF LIFE."

Auckland Star, Volume XXX, Issue 143, 19 June 1899, Page 2

"THE TRUE MISSION OF LIFE."

The Rev. B. L. Thomas preached on this subject last evening in the Congregational Church, Devonport, showing hxyw in many resipects human life was like a voyage—having its point of individual departure, its untried couTse, amd tthe desired haven, an ideal gwd as an objective to be striven after. To fail in relation to a worthy aim in life is a sad misfortune. It is to become morally a derelict on the high seas. The Perthshire was an Object of keen interest to thousands who had no personal connection with her voyage, but who would be glad to have the expected good mews of her on the morrow. It is part of a true mission in life to realise out common kinship—and to be concerned for those morally adrift, who axe creatures of circumstances —driven by the winds or carried by the current. Being out of their proper course they are in danger of shipwreck. Chirst's purpose was to show mankind the rigtht course—seek those away from it, and bring them, back—■ save those who were derelicts from innocence and goodness, and give them impulses toward righteousness and holy living. How did he accomplish his mission? The cross is the answer! That deatih of sublimest self-sacrifice has become tShe inspiration —the salvation'—-of myriads to whom the secret of Jesiis has been revealed. There is no higher ideal in ■tfhe world than fellowship with, a.nd imitation of, Jesus Christ. With out Master's example and appeal before us it is <a great thing to live. To be worthy of his approval is the highest honour. To have a humble paxt in his ministry of reconciliation is the holiest and most lasting joy. And a Christian's privilege is the measure of responsibility. Ability, opportunity, faith, what these allow, or render possible, every follower of Jesus should attempt. A Christian profession should mean making a serious business of our religion, and introducing into our business the laws and spirit of Christ. The need of Was hour is not so much restatement of doctrine as application of principle, giving an honest exposition of the Gospel in life and effort.