Morning Star

For the Morning Star

O LORD, BLESS JOSEPH.

Thus prayed a mother a few moments since for her absent son, now engaged in the great work of preaching Jesus to those sitting in the region and shadow of death, who unacquainted with the truths of that gospel denominated "the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth." The prayer suggested many ideas to my mind, worthy of consideration. I was forcibly reminded of the Redeemer's fervent prayer for his chosen disciples, those whom he had called from the low walks of life, to go forth as angels of mercy, publishing the glad tidings of salvation. "Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are?" Thus prayed Jesus for his servants; and as his children are commanded to imitate his example, and arm themselves "with the same mind," the pious mother could pray with propriety, "O Lord, bless Joseph." I also thought of the importance of God's children praying for those commissioned by the King of glory to sound the tocsin of liberty to the slaves of sin and satan. It is important, because it is the requirement of inspired writers. "Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified." The Apostle Paul, after exhorting believers to pray "always with all prayer," adds, "And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel." Truly, the servants of God contending with the "powers of darkness," and laboring for the good of souls, are worthy of our prayers, and should be remembered in our supplications whenever we address Heaven's throne.

They need them. Of this they are aware. Often from the distant East, where gospel light has made but little progress, the warm desires of those who have left their friends and kindred, are wafted to our shores, and fall upon our ears, "Brethren, pray for us."

Again, I thought of the importance of professed Christians acting as they pray. I believe the majority do; but then it cannot be denied, but what there are many (I would that they were like angel's visits, few and far between,) who pray with considerable zeal, (not according to knowledge) for the advancement of Christ's kingdom, unwilling to aid with their substance in advancing the great work of reform. Call upon them to give a portion of what God has given them, for the purpose of benefiting his cause, and they are sure to excuse themselves in some way or other. They either have given at some past period in life, or intend to give at some future period; but, in consequence of some failure in business, probably, or something else best known to themselves, they are unprepared to contribute at present. Their motto seems to be,

"I have, or I will, but I cannot give now."

Shame on such professors. They have been, and are, a curse to the church and the world.—They have measurably stopped Zion's wheels from rolling, and deprived thousands of our race of the inestimable blessing of gospel light. Such may pray, but, as they are unwilling to show their faith by their works, their prayers will be of no importance. Let them act as they pray! then it may be said, "Thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God." Covetousness has been and is a great obstacle to the progress of heavenly light and knowledge; but let the efforts of all correspond with their prayers, and doubtless the time would come when we could rejoicingly listen to the tolling of its funeral knell. Let all who have named the name of Christ, act consistent with their profession, and then they can consistently pray, O Lord, bless thy servants.

L. J. MADDEN.

Lansing, Mich.