Justice is a temporary thing that must at last come to an end; but the conscience is eternal and will never die. A preacher must be both soldier and shepherd. He must nourish, defend, and teach; he must have teeth in his mouth, and be able to bite and fight. All who call on God in true faith, earnestly from the heart, will certainly be heard, and will receive what they have asked and desired. Anyone who is to find Christ must first find the church. How could anyone know where Christ is and what faith is in him unless he knew where his believers are? Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree. Everything that is done in the world is done by hope. Faith is permitting ourselves to be seized by the things we do not see. Good news from heaven the angels bring, Glad tidings to the earth they sing: To us this day a child is given, To crown us with the joy of heaven. In our sad condition, our only consolation is the expectancy of another life. Here below all is incomprehensible. There is no more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion, or company than a good marriage. |