BV 255 .J7 Copy I i im Class ISV ?^ 'S_S Book '<'T7 , Cop)Tight}^?. : COraRIGHT DEPOSm HEARTH AND ALTAR OTHER BOOKS BY THE SAME AUTHOR The Faith and the Fellowship Personal Appeals to Sunday School Workers Essentials of Evangelism The Coming Day HEARTH AND ALTAR A Book for Family Worship OSCAR L. JOSEPH ASSOCIATION PRESS New York: 347 Madison Avbnub 1919 ■«lf. Copyright, igiPi by the International Committee of Young Men's Christian Associations « t « 1 1 GLA5t5458 ^s^ .. To CYRIL THE LAD OF MY LIFE IN THE LAND OF LIGHT WHERE ALL IS LOVE January 2, 1915- April 29, 1918 INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION The War has made clear that the struggle was be- tween two ideals more than between nations. The out- come is more than a victory: it is an opportunity for the intelligent application of the principles of liberty in every condition of life and among all peoples. The purpose of the untold sacrifice was well expressed by a sergeant, who was going back to his unit after being wounded twice. He had a presentiment that he would not return and he showed his courage by saying : "But I don't mind. It's going to be a better world for the kiddies afterwards.'' The home was in the heart of this hero, and it was the instinct of the father that led him forward to death, for the sake of the welfare of the rising generation. In every crisis, the father must step into the breach and discharge his high mis- sion. The home is the best school of character and the center of the finest culture. The contagion of moral and spiritual idealism makes for bright surroundings and healthy pleasures. The atmosphere of religion is an inspiration and a safeguard, whose influence has been beneficial and far-reaching. The absence of it is a most serious loss and a fatal menace, more especially in these days, when we are threatened by atheism in the city, paganism in the country, and materialism everjrwhere. The conditions of industrial, commercial, and social life are making subtle invasions into the vii INTRODUCTION sanctity of the home. We must see to it that the sacred ties which hold the family together in a com- plete circle are strengthened by the inner springs, whose source is God. One of the established means which made family religion fertile and fruitful was the practice of family prayers. This impressive expression of family faith is no longer common nor popular. It does not neces- sarily follow that religion is not present where the family altar does not exist ; but we must acknowledge that the religious life, in all its bearings, receives a greater stimulus where it is honored and used. The altar sanctifies and strengthens the hearth. It helps to cultivate the habits of reverence, dignity, and honor. The public exercises of the sanctuary are more apt to be better sustained by those who observe home wor- ship than by those who neglect it. Many parents desire to restore or introduce this wholesome practice; but they are doubtless confused as to ways and means. To be sure, it cannot be observed according to traditional ways, nor indeed would it be advisable. Where the father has to take the morning train and the children must hurry to school or the older members go to business, the best time for family prayers is soon after the evening meal, when all the family is generally present. The important question is not how much time should be given to it. The more urgent fact is the spirit of faith and reverence in which it is carried out, and its regular observance throughout the year. Five minutes given to this ennobling exercise, from day to day, will bring viii INTRODUCTION the blessing of heaven on the home and enable parents and children to enjoy the favor of God and the peace divine, which passeth all understanding. The chapters in this little book are arranged so that the whole family could participate. The Scrip- ture passage at the opening is to be recited in concert. Next comes the portion for the evening followed by the prayer, both to be read by the father, after which all unite in the Lord's Prayer. Provision is also made for special days of the year. Let it be emphasized that the father is the priest of the family and the legitimate leader of family devotions. This volume was prepared for my own family, and it has worked so well that I am sharing it with others, with the prayer that every home in the land may enjoy in fullest measure the goodness, the grace, and the guidance of the Father, from whom every family is named. O. L. J. January 2, 1919. IX CONTENTS PAGE Introduction vii First Week General Confession 2 Second Week Praise 16 Third Week Prayer 30 Fourth Week The Glory of Christ 44 Fifth Week The Gospel of Salvation . . 58 Sixth Week Public Worship 72 Seventh Week The Christian Home 86 Eighth Week Faith 100 Ninth Week The Faithful 114 Tenth Week Fear 128 Eleventh Week. . . Divine Guidance 142 Twelfth Week The Christian Life 156 Thirteenth Week. Christian Living 170 Special Days 184 In every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all un- derstanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4: 6, 7, OUR Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy king- dom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day otir daily bread. And forgive us our tres- passes, as we forgive them that trespass against us. And lead us not into tempta- tion ; but deliver us from evil : for Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. 1st Weeki GENERAL CONFESSION Sunday J Sunday: CONFIDENCE IN GOD O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- ments, and his ways past finding out! . . . For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans ii : 33, 36. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written. For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come. Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. — Romans 8: 31-39. We magnify Thy name, O Lord God, for the many precious promises which have always sustained Thy people in the dark and cloudy days as well as in the bright and happy days. They were able to endure and persevere be- cause they realized Thy presence which gave them courage and steadfastness. They thus rejoiced in all their experi- [2] GENERAL CONFESSION U^t Week iSunday ences. This testimony to Thy faithfulness has been heard in every generation and continues to our day. We pray for a deepening of our own faith in Thy love and power. May we not measure Thy thoughts by the thumb-rule of our limited experiences ; but may we receive a fuller under- standing of Thy far-reaching purposes of redemption and be influenced by them to advance towards higher and larger stages of service. Let us be assured that so long as we remain in union with Thee, we are equal to any duty or difficulty. Keep us in the fellowship of divine love, that we may be profitably active in the fellowship of kindred spirits, as we seek to establish and extend the Kingdom of Christ in our own midst and throughout the world. May the day be near when the praises of the blessed Redeemer shall be heard in all the earth. Look on our family with love, and may the blessing we seek for ourselves be also granted to every family, through Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [3] i^^ ^^*1 GENERAL CONFESSION Monday J Monday: THE CHRISTIAN I#EAL O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- ments, and his ways past finding out! . . . For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans 1 1 : 33, 36. Blessed are the poor in spirit : for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be com- forted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after right- eousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteous- ness' sake : for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and per- secute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your re- ward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. — Matthew 5: 3-12. O Lord God, gracious and true, we are aware that Thy thoughts concerning us are for our highest attainments in character. Thou dost desire all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of Thy truth in Jesus Christ. May we learn that real well-being does not consist in material wealth, but in the possession of character. We are glad to know that the most perfect ideal was attained by our blessed Master. If we adopt His spirit, we also can have His attitude of mind and heart toward the heavenly [4] GENERAL CONFESSION V^t Week {.Monday Father and toward all people. We realize that this is the supreme need of our times. We therefore pray that this pattern of life may so impress our mind, quicken our emotions, and impel our will, that we may daily direct our course in accord with it. So shall we find the secret of happiness and be enabled to share it with others. May a similar desire for such exalted devotion be granted to all Thy people. Let them show that all their undertakings are begun, continued, and ended with a determination to honor Thee in all things. May the influence of the Chris- tian home purify and beautify every community, and grant the joy of the Lord to all who love Thee in sincerity and truth, in the name of Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [5] 1st Weeki GENERAL CONFESSION Tuesday J Tuesday: FIDELITY TO GOD the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- ments, and his ways past finding out! . . . For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans ii : 33, 36. But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is cer- tain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment, let us be therewith con- tent. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. 1 give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession; That thou keep this commandment without spot, \mre- bukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords ; Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see : to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen. — I Timothy 6:6-16. Almighty God, we come to Thee in the name §f Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Saviour. Accept our thanks and gratitude for the mercies which have surrounded and sus- [6] GENERAL CONFESSION \ist Week iTueaaay tained us this day. In view of what Thou hast been to us, we are confident of the unknown future and we commit ourselves to Thee for the night, for tomorrow, and for all time. May we be zealous to do Thy will. Keep us free from selfishness and bitterness, especially when the struggle seems to go hard against us. May we be firm in our allegiance to Jesus our Master, and, remembering His fidelity in the face of opposition, show a similar spirit. Comfort those who sorrow. Encourage the timid and faint-hearted. Strengthen those who are tempted. Quicken the indifferent and careless to a sense of their obligation. Enrich the labors of the faithful, that they may abound yet more and more in all good works. Guide the leaders of our nation in every walk of life. Grant Thy bene- diction to all who are in need of special help, and may they and we and all Thy people ever keep true to Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [7] 1st Week 1 GENERAL CONFESSION Weanesdayji Wednesday: TOLERANCE AND PRESSURE O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- ments, and his ways past finding out! . . . For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans 1 1 : 33, 36. And John answered and said, Master, we saw one cast- ing out devils in thy name: and we forbade him, because he foUoweth not with us. And Jesus said unto him. Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us. And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem. And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? But he turned, and rebuked them, and said. Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them. And they went to another village. And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him. Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Jesus said unto him. Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests ; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said. Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead; but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. And another also said. Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. [8] GENERAL CONFESSION liSLF^i iWednesaay And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. — Luke 9 : 49-62. We thank Thee, O Lord, for the companionship if Jesus Christ. We think of him as Saviour, Teacher, and Lord, and our hearts are lifted up. We also think of Him as our Friend, and that brings to mind His sympathy, charity, and compassion, which encourage us in our work. May we always remember that this holy friendship calls for vigilant loyalty and devotion on our part. May we have more of the spirit and mind of Christ, that all our activity may be begun and continued in exact accord with His will. May we daily experience the solace and strength that come from prayer; and let all Thy people know that, through supplication and intercession, great and notable events have always been accomplished. Let the spirit of prayer come upon the whole Church, and may we rejoice in the fellowship of intercession which leads to the prac- tice of deeds of kindness. May we commend Thy grace by our lives of self-control, patience, and eagerness, free from reckless passion, bitter discord, and ignorant conceit. May we engage ourselves in the service of others, in the name of Him who went about doing good, and so prove to be worthy friends of the blessed Jesus. The Lord's Prayer. m Th^^ay\ GENERAL CONFESSION Thursday: ENTHUSIASTIC CHRISTIANS O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- ments, and his ways past finding out! . . . For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans 1 1 : 33, 36. Now they which were scattered abroad upon the per- secution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. — Acts 11 : zg-26. O Lord God, Thou art the hope of all the earth. Men have sought Thee in divers ways, and they have never been left to their own devices, for Thou hast spoken at many times and under different circumstances through prophets and saints. Those who answered when Thou didst call found peace and received strength and were [10] GENERAL CONFESSION [{?£ ^•f* IThuraday ready for larger revelations of Thy will and for more heroic adventures in Thy name. Thy greatest and richest word has been spoken through Jesus Christ, and the vision of Him has given us pardon, joy, and courage. May we be faithful witnesses of His boundless grace, so that the leaven of the Gospel of redemption may influence, trans- form, and bless all nations, even to the uttermost part of the earth. Bless the missionary enterprise of the Church. May what has been done be an earnest of the greater performances and achievements in the coming days. As we think of the faithful men and women who labored for the Gospel's sake in former days, and often under dis- comforts, we pray that we of these later days may advance yet further the triumphs of Christ. May there be a deep- ening of the devotion, an enriching of the experience, an intensifying of the activities of the Church and a multi- plying of results to the greater glory of Thy grace through Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [11] istweeM GENERAL CONFESSION Frtday 1 Friday: THE GROWING KINGDOM O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- ments, and his ways past finding out! . . . For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans 1 1 : 33, 36. And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come. And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth: But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it. — Mark 4:26-32. Another parable spr.ke he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. — Matthew 13:33. We bless Thy name, O God, for the quiet influences of Thy Spirit exercised through many agencies, in every age and land. We are often inclined to think of Thy presence only in connection with what we call big events. We are apt to overlook the fact that even in the lesser and smaller affairs of life Thou art graciously present. May we learn not to judge by appearances alone, but be patient to find [12] GENERAL CONFESSION fi^^J^^* out the real worth of life. Give us more of the mind of the Master, that we may be confident of the steady growth of truth and the certain conquest of Christ, whose King- dom is without frontiers. May the power of Christ be more increasingly manifested in the clash of nations, and out of the confusions and desolations of war may there come a better day "for all peoples. May we b^vare of the glamor of mere success and test every achievement by the holiness and goodness of Jesus our Saviour. !May the Church know its appointed task in these days of many demands and opportunities, and be faithful in the full dis- charge of it, for the building up of a bereaved and broken world. Bless our home and every home in all lands for Christ's sake. The Lord's Prayi^ [IS] ^^^^32*] GENERAL CONFESSION Saturday: OUR RESPONSIBILITY O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- ments, and^ his ways past finding out ! . . . For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans 1 1 : 33, 36. And he began again to teach by the sea side : and there was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land. And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine. Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow: ^ And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up. And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth: But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought iorth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some a hundred. And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. — Mark 4: 1-9. Almighty Father, we praise Thee for the goodness and mercy that have been our portion during this week. We are thankful for the benefits of health, the comforts of home, the freedom of country, the liberty of religion, and above all for the assurance that Jesus Christ is our per- sonal Saviour. We pray that the blessings of the Gospel may continue to spread among the sons of men and that all who hear its blessed and bountiful tidings of redemp- [14] GENERAL CONFESSION Ujt Wee* tion and relief may respond thoughtfully, earnestly, and heartily. We pray for the Church and its many activities. May the spirit of worship and the practice of prayer be greatly increased, for thus only can the work of the Church produce really worth-while and beneficial results. Manifest Thy presence wherever Thy people meet tomor- row. Give grace to Thy ministering servants, that the services may be profitable to all the people, making them more devoted and loyal to all the interests of Thy King- dom in every land. Be with the sick and shut-in, the aged and feeble, and all who are kept away from the sanctuary, and may they find that wherever they are Thou art present, and that to bless. Hftsten the day when the nations, from the least to the greatest, will acknowledge the supremacy of Christ and guide their policies according to His will. The Lord's Prayer. [15] 3d Weeky PRAISE Sunday J Sunday: JOYFUL PRAISE O praise the Lord, all ye nations : praise him, all ye people. For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord. — Psalm 117. O sing unto the Lord a new song; for he hath done marvellous things : his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory. The Lord hath made known his salvation: his right- eousness hath he opeijly shewed in the sight of the heathen. He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise. Sing imto the Lord with the harp; with the harp, and the voice of a psalm. With trimipets and sound of cornet make a joyful noise before the Lord, the King. Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. — Psalm 98 : 1-7. We thank Thee, O Lord, for the vision of victory and for the actual deeds of the redeemed of every age and clime. What a mighty host of loyal men and women have honored Thee in their lives, who had no regard for com- fort where character was in danger. They acknowledged the grace of our Saviour Christ, by whose sacrifice on the Cross they obtained forgiveness of sin and the renewal of life. They always had regard to Him as their Example and Inspiration, and when they were tempted to take counsel with sin they were strengthened to resist evil and to follow the good. May the company of such faith- [16] PRAISE \i<^ ^J^^ ISunaay ful ones increase and may their testimony abound to the honor of Thy grace. Accept our praises for the benefits which we have enjoyed as a family, and teach us to re- gard losses and sorrows as part of our lot in life, that we may accept them not in a spirit of cowardly complain- ing but in the spirit of courageous endurance. May Thy presence be realized in every home that is afflicted, and may the assurance of immortality steady the lives that w^ould otherwise be unbalanced by despair. Unite our hearts to fear Thy name in filial reverence and love. May we find contentment and peace in the constant and con- tinuous consolations of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [17] 2d Week-\ PRAISE Monday J Monday: SINCERE GRATITUDE O praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord. — Psalm 117. And in that day thou shalt say, O Lord, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me. Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation. Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out o£ the wells of salvation. And in that day shall ye say, Praise the Lord, call upon his name, declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted. Sing unto the Lord; for he hath done excellent things: this is known in all the earth. Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion: for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee. — Isaiah 12: 1-6. Thou, O Lord, art a God of majesty and mercy, and we celebrate Thy works of salvation with hearty thanksgiv- ing. Thy deeds of deliverance are manifested throughout the earth, and proofs of Thy gracious dealings are seen on every hand and in every land. Change and uncertainty are the experience of mankind, but Thou art the same in all generations — a Refuge and Strength to those who trust in Thee. When the needy called upon Thee, they were heard, and Thou didst comfort them in misfortune and sor- row. They were hard pressed by adversity ; but Thou didst sustain and guide them in the dark and evil days. They [18] PRAISE I'd Week IMonaay were alarmed and distracted by rumor and report and it seemed as though their future were going to be one of shallows and miseries. Then Thou didst open an unex- pected door which brought relief and their later days were better than their former. When so many express gratitude for Thy wondrous providence, we summon courage for ourselves. While we praise Thee for all that has come our way, we also pray that Thy blessing may be given to all troubled and anxious ones, that they may learn to see the silver lining in every cloud. May we receive the pledges of Thy guidance with readiness, and follow the light from morn till eve, and all the time, through Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [191 3d WeeAl PRAISE TuesdayX Tuesday: WHAT IS MAN? O praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord. — Psalm 117. O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens. Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou or- dained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger. When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained ; What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands ; thou hast put all things under his feet : All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and what- soever passeth through the paths of the seas. O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! — Psalm 8: 1-9. We thank Thee, O blessed God, for Thy consideration of us. For the many tokens of Thy love and goodness, we lift up our hearts in praise to Thee. May our apprecia- tion of Thy benefits be seen in the way we live. Thou hast been found of all who sought Thee and they have cele- brated their discoveries by word and deed. Thou didst accept their service, not according to their knowledge of Thy will, but according to the spirit of love shown, as they were faithful to their light. They who ardently aspire after Thee are always acceptable in Thy sight, and we are [20] PRAISE fi'"*'r* iTueaday glad of this. May we zealously and earnestly exalt Thy name, which reveals the character of Thy holiness and kindness. Since we are privileged with the complete revelation of Thyself in Jesus Christ, may we show forth Thy praises with greater ardor, and may the worship of our lives ever make known the praises of Him who has brought us out of darkness into the joy and satisfaction of his marvellous light. Forgive what is unworthy and inconsistent in our lives, and stir within us the flame of divine love, that our behavior towards God and man may be suggestive of the spirit of our Saviour and Lord. The Lord's Prayer. [21] ?x?5''**^ 1 PRAISE Wednesday! Wednesday: HEARTY THANKSGIVING O praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord. — Psalm 117. Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's. ... Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust. As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone: and the place thereof shall know it no more. But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to ever- lasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children; To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remem- ber his commandments to do them. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all. Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word. Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure. Bless the Lord, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the Lord, O my soul. — Psalm 103: 1-5, 13-22. [22] PRAISE \2d Week ^Wednesday O Thou Redeemer of our lives, we meet at the close of this day to praise Thee, from whom all blessings flow. We would join our hearts in thanksgiving for what we have received at Thy bountiful hands, far exceeding our merit and more than we could number. A steady stream of manifold mercies has flowed towards us up to the present time. These marks of love divine have dispelled the darkness, lightened our burdens, and made clear our ways. As we rejoice to salute the morning of a bright day, so may we be glad that the Sun of righteousness, with heal- ing in His wings, sheds His gracious rays upon our lives. May we remember that Thou art present even when the day of gloom is on us. On such occasions increase our faith, that we may be possessed of calmness of spirit through confidence in Thee. May all who have such faith keep growing strong and not be weary in well doing. May the counsels and comforts of the Gospel receive due regard from us and may we make it our concern to add to our faith virtue, knowledge, self-control, endurance, piety, brotherly kindness, and love and so abound in the riches of Thy grace, through Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [23] 2d Week 1 PRAISE Thursday J Thursday: AN EXULTANT TESTIMONY praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord. — Psalm 117. 1 will extol thee, my God, O King; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever. Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever. Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works. And men shall speak of the might of thy terrible acts: and I will declare thy greatness. They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness. The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works. All thy works shall praise thee, O Lord; and thy saints shall bless thee. They shall speak of the glory of thy kingdom, and talk of thy power; To make known to the sons of men his mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of his kingdom. Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion endureth throughout all generations. — Psalm 145: 1-13. O Lord our God, we wait on Thee in the quiet of this evening hour, and bless Thy name for the help which we have received from Thee in the performance of our vari- [24] PRAISE [^^>v~*^ ous duties. We join in the chorus of thanks that con- tinuously comes before the throne of grace from a count- less multitude of grateful souls in all parts of the wide world. Thou dost lift up those who fall, and strengthen those who fail, so that their hope is quickened and their courage renewed. All through the years, Thou hast been the Refuge and Guide of succeeding generations. But Thy arm is not yet shortened, nor art Thou weary in imparting wisdom and endurance to us out of the vast storehouse of Thy spiritual riches. Blessed be the Lord God, who is as gracious and generous today as He al- ways has been. We rejoice and are glad that this God is our God, in whom is our trust, and who has enriched and refreshed our lives. When we are tempted to depres- sion, may we be revived by the remembrance of Thy goodness and keep faith, until the cloud has passed and once again we come out into the open sunlight of Thy realized presence. Forgive our misdoings, and may we be more sensitive to the influences of Thy Spirit and more responsive to the appeals of truth and honor, and show ourselves the faithful followers of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [25] 2dWeekl PRAISE Friday J Friday: HEART-HAPPINESS O praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord. — Psalm 117. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying. Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common ; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart. Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. — Acts 2 : 37-47. We come to Thee, O gracious God, with true hearts and full assurance of faith, praising Thee through Jesus, the [26] PRAISE fi^.y^* Christ. In Thy light shall we see light and have clear con- ceptions of truth, fine perceptions of duty, and strength for the right discharge of responsibility. Just as the Chris- tians of old had gladness of heart because of singleness of life, so may our motives be pure that our lives may be clean and courageous. Deliver us from the mists which belong to the lowlands and lead us to the higher levels where the atmosphere is clear and the vision is lucid. May we rejoice as we come into deeper sympathy with Thy thoughts and purposes. May such an experience be given to all Thy people, so that their influence shall spread abroad the fear of the Lord and many shall seek and find Thee to the joy and rejoicing of their lives. We pray for the native Christians on the mission field, that they may be brave to bear persecution, strong to suffer losses, and patient to withstand opposition. May their lives of purity impress the non-Christians and win them to the Saviour. May all who name Christ see to it that they are sound in the faith and also sound in the happiness of the faith and have a Christian experience that is alluring and convincing, through Jesus Christ our Lord. The Lord's Prayer. [27] ^^^1 PRAISE Saturday: A TIMELY EXHORTATION praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord. — Psalm 117. 1 will bless the Lord at all times : his praise shall con- tinually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. 1 sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed. This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. O fear the Lord, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him. The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing. Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the Lord. What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good? Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile. Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. — Psalm 34: 1-14. We come before Thee, our Father, at the close of an- other week and celebrate the grace divine which has con- ferred so many mercies on us. Thy promises have been [28] PRAISE [^^Z% our comfort ; Thy presence has brought us gladness ; Thy peace has renewed and revived our lives. May we increas- ingly confide in Thee, commune with Thee, and confess Thee from day to day. May we all follow on to know Thee, O Lord, in the intimacies of genuine friendship and in the confidences of holy fellowship. May there be growth in grace accompanied with growth in the knowl- edge of our Lord Jesus Christ. We pray that the Church services tomorrow may become means of grace and of benediction to all who attend. May the preachers proclaim the evangel with certainty of conviction and jubilation of spirit. Let all who hear the preaching turn away from foolishness and frivolity, and follow the bright shining light that leadeth to the new day of fraternity, sympathy, liberty, and opportunity. May the family do its full share to keep all its members in the way of holiness and blessed- ness. May the home, the school, and the church unite to supplement and complement each other's work, that their cooperation may make glad the City of our God and extend throughout the earth the Kingdom of Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [29] 3rd Week] PRAYER Sunday J Sunday: A DWELLING-PLACE FOR GOD Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. — Matthew 7 : 7, 8. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone ; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord : In whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God through the Spirit. . . . For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named. That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love. May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowl- edge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. — Ephesians 2: 19-22; 3: 14-21. O Lord, we come to Thee in the quiet of the evening hour and bless Thee for this day of rest which has brought [30] PRAYER \ird Week ISunday refreshment to the hours of leisure and enabled us to profit thereby. May we appreciate the benefits of such a day and not misuse it in thoughtless and fruitless ways. Let us spend the day in such a manner that the whole week may share its benefits. How great is Thy love — so patient, so tender, so considerate, so universal. Thou hast never failed to favor us. From day to day, without any let-up. Thou dost cause Thy sun to rise on the just and the unjust, and Thy forbearance is unlimited. Give us a right understanding of Thy will, that we may be guided by it. Teach us the worth and privilege of prayer, that great means whereby we obtain a sense of Thy near presence and ability for endurance. Increase our faith in Thee as we learn to know more of Thy character revealed in such divers ways through deeds of mercy. We pray for Thy blessing on all whom we met today and on our friends and kindred. May they and we always trust Thee and serve Thee with loyalty and faithfulness. As Thou dost give us of Thy best for our benefit, may we share of our best with those in need, that we may be enriched and may spread abroad the virtues of Thy love in Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [31] 3rd Week] PRAYER Monday J Monday: A FRUITFUL LIFE Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. — Matthew 7 : 7, 8. I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered ; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done imto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. — John 15: i-n. We realize, O God, that without Thee we are helpless. We also know that unless we are daily doing Thy will there is no health nor happiness in us. We are further certain that the secret of all real living is in Jesus Christ. [32] PRAYER r^rd Week IMonday We pray Thee help us to translate these beliefs into prac- tice. Give us courage to abide in obedience to Thy com- mandments. Thou art not only the source of our joy, but the fountain of all life and blessedness. And we have learned that ever^^ good and perfect gift comes from Thee, v^ith no variation nor shadow made by turning. May we daily find well-being from Thy preciousness and let us be prompt to bear our testimony to the rich provisions of Thy bounty. When profession and practice agree, our prayers will carry weight and we shall be truly enabled to show forth Thy praises. May we not come to Thee only when we are in trouble, as though we regarded Thee as a convenience ; but may we live in such intelligent com- munion with Thee that whether in joy or sorrow we may welcome Thy companionship. Forgive us our neglect and indifference and may we always remain steadfast and secure in Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [33] 3rd Wae*] PRAYER Tuesday 1 Tuesday: THE CLIMATE OF THE HEART Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. — Matthew 7 : 7, 8. Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. . . . Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return imto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth : it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth be- [34] PRAYER \3rd Week iTuesctay fore you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off. — Isaiah 55: 1-3; 6-13. We thank Thee, O God, for the omnipotence of Thy grace, so considerate of every condition of life. We are prone to seek for satisfaction in the material things of life and to ignore Thee; but no one has found real happi- ness in such courses. It is only in Thee that we have peace, and it is as we diligently keep in the path of purity that we are contented and blessed. May we learn Thy thoughts concerning us, so that Thy promises and precepts may direct us in the way of truth and faithfulness. May the joy of Thy salvation uphold us, and the benefits of Thy grace stimulate us for every good word and work. Let us remember that we have not only privileges to enjoy, but also duties to perform. May those who are fortunate realize a responsibility to the sons of misfortune. Look on the world that is recovering from the welter of war. May the nations lay foundations and build accord- ing to Thy will, so that there may never again be an out- burst of the spirit of the tiger. May the Spirit of Christ govern every life, at home and abroad, and the unity of Christian brotherhood be established in every land. The Lord's Prayer. [35] 3rd Weeek 1 PRAYER Wednesday: INTERCESSION FOR ALL Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. — Matthew 7 : 7, 8. I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Whereimto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not,) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity. I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. — I Timothy 2: 1-8. We bless Thee, O Lord God of life, that in Thy pres- ence there is fulness of joy. Those who find Thee have discovered the secret of happiness and usefulness. Since Thy word is sure and Thy purposes secure, may we commit ourselves to Thee to carry out Thy will in all things. May we understand that true honor does not consist in place or position, but depends on purity of motive and con- sistency of life, wherever our lot may be cast. The world's [36] PRAYER fS?'J^^i IWeanesaay work is done by a division of labor. Some are called to lead and others to follow; but both are necessary and the results can be profitable only as there is a spirit of mutual confidence and cooperation. We realize the responsibility of the several leaders of our nation and that they must have the good will of all the people. We pray for our President, the Governors of the States, and all legislators and executives in law, commerce, labor, education, philan- thropy, and religion. We also pray for the entire citizen- ship of our land, and for all homes and places of business. May God be duly recognized everywhere and the spirit of kindly helpfulness and fraternal comity prevail among all nations. Thus only can suspicion, bitterness, and enmity be expelled and there dawn that better day of faith, sympathy, and hope, through Jesus Christ, the Lord of all good life. The Lord's Prayer. [37] 3rd WeeAl PRAYER Thuradayl Thursday: THE SYMPATHIZING GOD Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth ; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. — Matthew 7 : 7, 8. Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the Lord's hand double for all her sins. The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. . . . To whom then will ye liken me, or shall I be equal? saith the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth. Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My way is hid from the Lord, and my judgment is passed over from my God? Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no search- ing of his imderstanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall moimt up with wings as eagles; [38] PRAYER \3rd Week iThursday they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. — Isaiah 40: 1-5; 25-31. O Lord, help us to have a deeper view of Thy unfailing goodness. We are often tempted to question Thy love, especially when difficulty attacks us and sorrow visits us. We murmur and grow restless and impatient, and feel that we are unjustly treated. But such conclusions are due to our shortsightedness. We do not take time to con- sider that much of the distress of the world is due to man's ignorance, sinfulness, and carelessness. We per- sonally may be free from particular blame, but as vre are members of society, we are called to share what of it is good and evil. Enlighten us, O God, to a sense of social responsibility and may we realize that it is as each one does his share that evil and wrongdoing can finally be removed. Let us be conscious of Thy guiding hand and comforting presence and not become weary or faint- hearted, but hold firm to Thy counsels, obtain the uplift of prayer and follow close after the Lord Christ, whose sympathy and benediction are the joy and rejoicing of our lives. We pray not only for our family, that we may have these blessings, but for every family, that we may all make the eternal God our Refuge and know that underneath are the everlasting Arms, to sustain and strengthen and sanctify us, for His name's sake. The Lord's Prayer. [39] SrdWeekl PRAYER Friday J Friday : SINCERITY AND UNITY Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. — Matthew 7 : 7, 8. Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the syna- gogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you. They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret : and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypo- crites are: for they love to pray standing in the syna- gogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. — Matthew 6: i-8. Again I say unto you. That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. — Matthew i8: ig, 20. [40] PRAYER nrdWeek {.Friday Teach us, O Lord, how to pray with gladsome confidence. Thou dost not consider the many words, but the earnest spirit and the sincere motive. We do not have to flatter Thee with our wordy speeches nor tire Thee with noivSy petitions. In the matter of prayer, may we follow the practice of our Master. In the early morning, before the distractions of the day, and at even, after the labors of the day. He sought Thy presence and received refreshment and repose. He was thus able to meet difficulties without fear, to perform His duties with faith and to carry with Him the atmosphere of spiritual fragrance. Let us always see to it that our heart is fixed trusting in God, and that our life is hid with Christ in God. With such an experi- ence, we can dispel anxiety, acquire firmness, become love- worthy, and honor Thee with our substance and in all things. We thank Thee that Thou hast not failed us at any time and we pray that the spirit of trustfulness and trustworthiness may give the right tone to our life. May we find that through prayer, closed doors can be opened, hard tasks accomplished, heavy burdens borne, and charac- ter made the better for the discipline. Keep us in Thy love, through Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [41] 3rdWeek'l PRAYER Saturday} Saturday: ASSURANCE FROM EXPERIENCE Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. — Matthew 7 : 7, 8. I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought me up also out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and estab- lished my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord. Blessed is that man that maketh the Lord his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies. Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee : if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered. Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required. Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart. I have preached righteousness in the great congrega- tion: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O Lord, thou kngwest. I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation. Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O Lord: let thy lovingkindness and thy truth continually preserve me. — Psalm 40: i-ii. [42] PRAYER [3^ecia7 Days 1 NEW YEAR'S DAY Nefw Years Day] STRENGTH AND SUFFICIENCY Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and Amen. — Psalm ^2 : i8, 19. I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand. The sim shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. — Psalm 121: 1-8. When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream. Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen. The Lord hath done great things for them. The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad. Turn again our captivity, O Lord, as the streams in the south. They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. — Psalm 126: 1-6. O God our Help in ages past, we enter upon another year with gratitude to Thee for Thy many favors, with [184] NEW YEAR'S DAY [^^^^i^^r. INew it ear* a Day confidence in Thy supreme wisdom and gracious power, with determination to seek Thy will and to do it in the earnest consecration of love and loyalty. We confess the omissions and blunders of the past year, and we pray for Thy pardoning grace. As we review the events and happenings of the last year, we note that Thy provi- dences have crowded our lives. Blessings innumerable have come to us, which we did not recognize at the time because our eyes were dim and our ears heavy. For the Xew Year, give us the clear serenity of vision, the fervent buoyancy of hope, the assuring conviction of faith. May the spirit of wonder and joy fill our lives, so that we may regard each day as a new opportunity, in which to show forth Thy praise in deeds of kindness and love. Give us the firm assurance that seed sown under diffi- culties yields rich harvests for our reaping. May we con- tinue in prayer, grow in grace, increase in the knowledge of Christ, and multiply the fruits of truth and righteous- ness. Grant the divine favor to all Thy people, that, their lives being marked by renewed zeal and devotion, they may help to make this year the richest and best in all history, to the glory of Thy name in Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [185] Special Days 1 PALM SUN DAY Palm Sunday} THE COMING ONE Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. — Hebrews 13 : 20, 21. And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called the mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples. Saying, Go ye into the village over against you; in the which at your entering ye shall find a colt tied, whereon yet never man sat: loose him, and bring him hither. And if any man ask you. Why do ye loose him? thus shall ye say unto him, Because the Lord hath need of him. And they that were sent went their way, and found even as he had said imto them. And as they were loosing the colt, the owners thereof said unto them, Why loose ye the colt? And they said. The Lord hath need of him. And they brought him to Jesus: and they cast their garments upon the colt, and they set Jesus thereon. And as he went, they spread their clothes in the way. And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord : peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples. And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would im- mediately cry out. — Luke 19:29-40. [186] PALM SUNDAY TSpecialDays IPalin Sunday Almighty and Everlasting God, the Giver of life, in Whom we live and move and have our being, Thou hast drawn nigh to the sons of men in every age and Thou hast spoken through persons and events according to the understanding of the race. Thy best word was uttered in and by Jesus Christ, through whom we now have access into Thy presence. May we discern the mind of God as the blessed Master has revealed it, so that we may not be like the thoughtless multitudes or the prejudiced rulers of Israel, who turned away from the Chosen of God. May we be like that thoughtful company, who were not carried away by mere emotion nor controlled by darkening counsel but who took note of all the facts and gave to Jesus the royal welcome of grateful obedience and honest service. Such devoted souls have seen His day and re- joiced in its coming with light and liberty. Give us new visions of His greater glory as His Gospel of redemption is accepted among the nations. Nothing can stand in the way of its steady advance. May we not be afraid of the opposition of evil, but be strong to do Thy blessed will at any cost. Keep us steadfast and true and may we always be found in the way of Thy Son, our Saviour and Lord. The Lord's Prayer. [187] ^^^5d^] GOOD FRIDAY THE CROSS AND CALVARY Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. — Hebrews 13 : 20, 21. And when they were come to the place which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God. And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar. And saying. If thou be the King of the Jews, save thyself. And a superscription also was written over him in let- ters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, This is the King of the Jews. And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying. If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same con- demnation? And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said imto him. Verily I say imto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise. And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. [188] GOOD FRIDAY TSpecialDays iGood Friday And the sun was darkened, and the vail of the temple was rent in the midst. And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost. Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glori- fied God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man. — Luk ^ 23 : 33-47« Thanks be unto Thee, O God, for Thy unspeakable gift, even the Son of Thy love, who offered Himself a sacrifice for our redemption. We recall the events that led up to Calvary, and we think of the sacrificial life of our blessed Saviour in the days of His flesh, as He went about doing good, healing disease and proclaiming the Gospel of the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of man. May the appeal of the Cross drive away selfishness and mean- ness from our hearts and implant a spirit of honor and self- denying service. We accept Thee as the Suffering God, whose sympathy imparts strength, and the constraint of whose love exacts from us who are benefited thereby the prompt discharge of responsibility. We also acknowledge Thee as the Victorious God and pray that we may be consistent in fidelity to Thy truth. May all who are Christians give practical proof of al- legiance to Jesus, who suffered and was crucified that we might have life. May we convey the benefits of His pas- sion to others as we walk in the way of the Cross. Enrich our experience of Thy redeeming and sanctifying grace and quicken us in every good word and work, that at all times we may show forth the praises of Him who hath called us into his marvellous light, to love and live through Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [189] SpecMDayj 1 EASTER SUNDAY Easter Sunday 1 THE LIVING AND REIGNING CHRIST Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ ; to whom be glory for ever and even Amen. — Hebrews 13 : 20, 21. In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His coimtenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. And the angel answered and said unto the women. Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee ; there shall ye see him : lo, I have told you. And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did rim to bring his disciples word. And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying. All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him. Then said Jesus unto them. Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me. — Matthew 28: i-io. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus [190] EASTER SUNDAY r^ecialDays lEaster Sunday Christ, who has given us the assurance of immortahty and a foretaste of our heavenly inheritance through the Risen Saviour. On this day we join with muhitudes of believing people in celebrating Thy glorious triumph over sin and death. Just as the disciples came out of the dark- ness of Good Friday into the splendid light of Easter, so may we always remember that depressing and tiresome experiences pass away or can be endured, only as we welcome Thee in our midst, always to abide with us. May the truth of the Resurrection of Christ send out rays to illumine faith, to quicken hope, and to stimulate love to the farthest bounds of earth. May our confidence in the Living One be strengthened, our hope of His com- ing glories be vitalized, our love of God and man be in- creased, as we realize Thy presence from day to day, in the communion of prayer and service. Speak the word of comfort and peace to all who sorrow, and may their sense of loss become endurable by the thought that their beloved are safe with Thee, in the land of eternal love and light. Keep us faithful through all our life, by the merits and triumph of Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [191] SpeciiUDavB ^ ASCENSION DAY Ascension Day} THE FINAL VICTOR Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. — Hebrews 13:20, 21. Above when he said. Sacrifice and offering and barnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. And every priest standeth daily ministering and offer- ing oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. . . . Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the vail, that is to say, his flesh; And having a high priest over the house of God; Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil con- science, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; for he is faithful that promised; And let us consider one another to provoke xmto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: [192] ASCENSION DAY rSpecia/ Days lAacension Day and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. — Hebrews 10:8-14, 19-25. Heavenly Father, we glorify Thee for the victorious life of Jesus Christ, who completed His mission in tri- umph and is now crowned with glory and honor, at the right hand of the Majesty on high. We celebrate a Saviour who was thorough in His work for us men and for our salvation. We are glad to know that His ascen- sion to the celestial glory, whence He came from the Father, does not separate Him from his followers, but has really brought Him nearer to them in spiritual com- munion. While we proclaim Thee, O Christ, as the uni- versal Saviour, there yet remain large tracts of wild and treacherous wastes to be redeemed. And this must be done by us who confess Thy Lordship. Deepen the foun- tains of our life and may we be rooted and grounded in love divine, that our character and behavior may extend the righteousness and rulership of Christ, even to the uttermost parts of the world. May the nations definitely and seriously reckon with Jesus Christ. Let them all see that the world's sore needs can be adequately supplied only as He is taken into consideration. May we all accept and advertise the wonders of redeeming grace, until the earth shall be filled with the purity and peace of the Ascended and Enthroned One. The Lord's Prayer. [193] Specia/ DajTBl Whitmunday J WHITSUNDAY THE HOLY SPIRIT Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. — Hebrews 13:20,21. If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you an- other Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot re- ceive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. . • . These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, what- soever I have said unto you.— John 14: 15-18, 25, 26. And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared imto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and be- gan to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. . . . But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words : For these are not drimken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. [194] WHITSUNDAY f^^^ ^f^^ But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel: And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit: and they shall prophesy. . . . And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved, — Acts 2:1-4, 14-18, 21. Thou God of light and truth, who hast given a right understanding to Thy faithful people and enabled them to live in the obedience of love, we bless Thy Name for continuing these favors through succeeding generations. May the same Pentecostal Spirit who enlightened and em- boldened the apostles of old give to us also His Presence, that, our thoughts being cleansed by the illumination and inspiration of the Holy Spirit, our hearts may be kindled, our judgment correct, and our wills inclined towards Thee. So will our lives find comfort in the living Christ and yield the peaceable fruits of righteousness to Thy great glory. May the Spirit Divine exercise a deeper and fuller control, that there may be unit}- in diversity among Christians, and their talents and achievements may funher the best interests of the world, in art, science, knowledge, commerce, politics, legislation, and international inter- course. Guide our ways and works in the church, the home, and society, that in all things Thou mayest receive the preeminence in Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [195] f^tJrF'BIy] MOTHERS' DAY A VIRTUOUS WOMAN Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and Amen. — Psalm 72 : 18, 19. Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. Sb« seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with ker hands. She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar. She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with .the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land. She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles imto the merchant. Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. [196] MOTHERS* DAY l??^?L^^ 9^^^ imothera Day She openeth her mouth with wisdom ; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and cateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husr band also, and he praise th her. — Proverbs 31: 10-28. We lift up our hearts to Thee, O God, and remember the many mercies which have enriched our lives up to this present. Thy lovingkindness and plenteous redemp- tion have wrought marvels for us and the thought of them gratifies and encourages us. We thank Thee today more especially for the religious home and what it has done to bring sweetness and strength into life. The devoted services and sacrifices of motherhood have in- deed been the secret of much that is worthy in the home. Grant Thy richest blessing to every mother, that she may rely more fully on Thee and receive wisdom and courage, patience and endurance to order aright the ways of her children. We also pray for the fathers, that they may rejoice in the privilege of responsibility. Look on every home where sorrow has entered, and may the peace of Thy Presence bring the comforts of the Gospel to those who are sad and anxious. Guide back any erring sons and daughters from their prodigal ways, and lead the filial onward in the name of the Son of Mary, our Saviour and Lord. The Lord's Prayer. [197] ^peci^lDaya 1 MEMORIAL DAY MexnoTial Days THE SACRED PAST Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name for ever : and let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and Amen. — Psalm y2 : i8, 19. We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us, what work thou didst in their days, in the times of old. How thou didst drive out the heathen with thy hand, and plantedst them; how thou didst afflict the people, and cast them out. For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them: but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy counte- nance, because thou hadst a favour imto them. Thou art my King, O God: command deliverances for Jacob. Through thee will we push down our enemies : through thy name will we tread them under that rise up against us. For I will not trust in my bow, neither shall my sword save me. But thou hast saved us from our enemies, and hast put them to shame that hated us. In God we boast all the day long, and praise thy name for ever. — Psalm 44: 1-8. The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart : the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. —Psalm 19:7-10. Thou Mighty God, who hast commanded and effected [198] MEMORIAL DAY Ff^^^^^^^f?;* iMeznoTial Day deliverances for us, we lift our voices, in praise to Thee, as we remember Thy mercies towards us. Today as we recall the deeds of valor and heroism of our forbears in the testing times of the Civil War, we bless Thee be- cause Thou didst not fail them. They counted nothing too dear in the performance of their duty to uphold the sacred principle that right makes might. They were firmly persuaded that the rights of the people must be maintained at any cost, and they finished the work with success because they were guided by the ideal of malice toward none, with charity for all, and with firmness in the right as Thou gavest them to see the right. We celebrate the fidelity of those at the front and of those who re- mained behind to keep the home fires burning. We ap- preciate their sacrifices and we realize that the progress made by our nation since those days of turmoil has been due to their triumph of national unity. We also remember the heroic souls in what, please God, may be the last war in the world. May our courage rise to the present occa- sion of many demands in a spirit of patriotic devotion, leading us to do our utmost to realize more fully that ideal, where government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall increasingly flourish in our own nation, and be spread among all the nations of the world, through the merits of our Saviour Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [199] Special DayBl FLAG DAY Flag Day j THE NATION'S SYMBOL Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name for ever : and let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and Amen. — Psalm 72 : 18, 19. The Lord hear thee in the day of trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee; Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion; Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacri- fice; Grant thee according to thine own heart, and fulfil all thy coimsel. We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners: the Lord fulfil all thy petitions. Now know I that the Lord saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses : but we will remember the name of the Lord our God. They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright. Save, Lord: let the king hear us when we call. — Psalm 20: 1-9. Lord God, Mighty Ruler of the universe, we praise Thee for the power and majesty, the glory and wisdom, the goodness and love. Thou hast exhibited among the sons of men. We can say with humility and confidence that Thou hast shown signal mercies to our nation. We do not regard these blessings as tokens of partiality, but as reminders of responsibility. We bless Thee that our flag is the symbol of those noble and humane principles which have made for liberty, justice, and happiness. It is also [200] FLAG DAY F?^^ ^^^^ IFlag Day :he 5}Tnbol of national unity, national idealism, national 5er\'ice. . We think of the background of white as the s)Tnbol of purity of character; of blue as the symbol of loyal t>' which holds the nation in solid unity; of red as the symbol of sacrifice shown all through the nation s history, down to our own day, in the war happily ended. Wherever our flag has gone, the rights of mankind have been maintained and tyrannies have trembled. We pray that it may continue to float over a free and faithful people; and that wherever it is flung to the breezes, in whatever clime, it may be recognized as the symbol of redemption. Help us, that our puri:; :: purpose may be genuine, our loyalty of spirit eames: ?.rA otu- sacrifice of life hearty, in the name of Jesus Chris:, our Saviour and Lord. The Lord" 5 Prayer. [201] Spe<:ialDays 1 INDEPENDENCE DAY Independence Dayj LIBERTY, EQUALITY, FRATERNITY Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and Amen. — Psalm ^2 : i8, 19. I will publish the name of the Lord: ascribe ye great- ness unto our God. He is the Rock, his work is perfect; for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he. They have corrupted themselves, their spot is not the spot of his children: they are a perverse and crooked generation. Do ye thus requite the Lord, O foolish people and un- wise? is not he thy Father that hath bought thee? hath he not made thee, and established thee? Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations: ask thy father, and he will shew thee; thy elders, and they will tell thee. — Deuteronomy 32 : 3-7. Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old: Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done. For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children: That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be bom; who should arise and declare them to their children: That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments. — Psalm 78:1-7. [202] INDEPENDENCE DAY TSpecial Days llndependence Day O God of nations, we think of the history of the world as a series of ordered advances, making for progress through conflict and sacrifice. If we think of Thee as the God of our nation, it is not in any exclusive sense. We acknowledge the advantages we enjoy by reason of our extensive and fruitful domains. We can never forget that they were secured for us by labors which involved self- denial and bloodshed. We honor those who enlisted in the struggle to establish those humane principles which conserve the inalienable rights of all mankind to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The patriots strove for the ideal of self-government without the interference of tyranny, and they succeeded in obtaining the benefits of a free people. As we recall the exploits of the Thirteen Colonies and the fidelity of succeeding generations, we pray that we may be able to show an unstinted measure of devotion to the best interests of our country. May we also respond to the needs of the nations broken by war and may we do all in our power to bind up their wounds, to feed and clothe them in their destitution, and to enable them to find the soul of democracy and to cherish it, for the emancipation of themselves from despoilers of every sort. Give us all the true international spirit which will prevent any more wars and establish the brotherhood of man, in the name of Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [203] ^jSTs^^sn^y] ALL SAINTS^ DAY UNITED CHRISTIAN TESTIMONY Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in ever}' good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ ; to whom be glor^^ for ever and ever. Amen. — Hebrews 13:20, 21. And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gideon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthah; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought right- eousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverante; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; Of whom the world was not worthy: they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect. Wherefore, seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; [204] ALL SAINTS' DAY \^/^J^^ ^^"A lAJJ Sa^ntB Day who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. — Hebrews ii: 32 — 12: 2. We thank Thee, O God. for the sacred memory of the 5ointc w'^^''^ ^v'^ viced ^''"'"e'^ - - — — -s .-^ \v2.v^ -."1 ^rie"' 3. 'u'^^er for themselves sr : :t::: .e s : essi.g to others because they conquere d s e f ^ r 1 :r.t:: 5 1 1 : r. : ; ^hts of love for Christ, and c:: dr rt: re r :; - :; zy hr ministry of kindly service. 1r.ty .vere unr^Lnov.n :o fame yet well known to Thee, in whom they rejoiced, and by whom they were inspired for all true living. Since ihty loved Christ and lived for Him, we think of :dr :: : : refer- ence to clime, creed, or color. We pra :: 1: d 5 e?: of Christ-like character may mean m:re in n.ese lis May Christians be united in the bcnii :f 5 nradn ani common service, so that emulation may take dne riace of contention and competition. May the h:n:r :t Christ and the pressing needs of the v. :rid :e rer riei as n:re important than the customs oz ra: : :n ^■'^'^y dnarity. generosity, magnanimity, and ::ar:esy :e ^.'.-•'■-ly^ sd: vn, in the name and for the sake of : ar :ne ?.ni :ni Master and Lord, to whom with Thee, O ?a: er an: :ne tdrice blessed Spirit, be honor and glory, world without end. The Lord's Prayer. [206] f^^J.^^, D.y] THANKSGIVING DAY THE GOOD GOD Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and Amen. — Psalm 72 : 18, 19. O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy; And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south. They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in. Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them. Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses. And he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation. Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men ! For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness. — Psalm 107: 1-9. The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy. Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem; praise thy God, O Zion. For he hath strengthened the bars of thy gates; he hath blessed thy children within thee. He maketh peace in thy borders, and filleth thee with the finest of the wheat. . . . Praise ye the Lord. — Psalm 147: 11-14, 20. O God of majesty and mercy, we adore and magnify Thy reverend Name for the innumerable benefits enjoyed by us as a people. It is a collective memory that takes us back to the Pilgrims and their serious purpose to worship God according to the dictates of their enlightened [206] THANKSGIVING DAY rSpecUi Days ITharLksgivmg Day conscience. Their celebrations were hearty and sincere and they laid strong foundations with prophetic vision. We remember with gratitude the sacrifices of the Revolu- tionists to maintain the right of self-government and the freedom of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We recall with gratitude the struggles of the Civil War for the principle of government of the people, by the people, for the people, which is the basis of a united nation. We bless Thee for the signal triumph of Right over the tyranny of militarism and for the noble part recently played by our nation to secure peace for the world and a guarantee that the future shall never again be stained by the tragedy and desolation of war. Truly, our lot has been cast in memorable times. }^Iay we not regard our blessings as a matter of course, but consider them as a legacy to be enriched for the benefit of coming genera- tions. May we show piety, courage, and neighborliness in the discharge of our duties; and to this end we con- secrate our Hves, in the name of Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer. [2071 Special Days 1 CHRISTMAS DAY Christmas Day J CHEER AND COURAGE Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. — Hebrews 13:20, 21. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, (because he was of the house and lineage of David,) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; be- cause there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them; and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another. Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing [208] CHRISTMAS DAY rSpec/a/Days IChnstmaa Day which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. — Luke 2 : 4-20. We praise Thee, O God, for the meritorious grace re- vealed in Jesus Christ our Saviour, whose coming has brought untold benefits to the whole race. Today we celebrate Thy supreme gift to us and we bless Thee for its exceptional worth and bountiful preciousness. The song of the angels has girdled the world and its echoes are heard in many a life. We bless Thee for this Gospel of the Incarnation which declares that Thou from the highest didst come with the deliverance of love to man, at his lowest, in every condition of life. We are glad to know that responses have come from all classes of people, who acknowledge their allegiance to Christ the Lord. We pray that this message of redemption may have a still larger appeal, and that the peace of God may be universally welcomed in sincerity, earnestness, and gratitude. Enter every home with a special Christmas blessing, and may it be sanctified to every member of the family, present and absent, so that the bonds of love may unite every one for nobler and better living, in the dear Redeemer's name. The Lord's Prayer. [209] l^'^A'turty-firsA DECEMBER THIRTY-FIRST ANOTHER MILESTONE Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and Amen. — Psalm y2 : i8, 19. Lord, thou hast been our dwellingplace in all genera- tions. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlast- ing to everlasting, thou art God. . . . For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night. Thou carriest them away as with a flood; they are as a sleep: in the morning they are like grass which groweth up. In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up; in the evening it is cut down, and withereth. . . . The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut oflF, and we fly away. . • . So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts imto wisdom. . . . O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may re- joice and be glad all our days. Make us glad according to the days wherein thou hast afflicted us, and the years wherein we have seen evil. Let thy work appear unto thy servants, and thy glory unto their children. And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it. — Psalm 90: i, 2, 4-6, 10, 12, 14-17- We give Thee hearty praise, O Lord God, for bringing us to the close of another year, and we confess our faith in Thee by declaring : "Hitherto hath the Lord helped us." [210] DECEMBER THIRTY-FIRST rSpedaiDays IDecember Thirty-Rr^t The year has been one of lights and shadows, of pleasure and privation, of success and failure. Thou hast been with us in our joys and sorrows, and we have been enabled to endure by the grace of the faithful and considerate Guide, who has not failed us. Forgive us the errors and omis- sions of the year and continue to us Thy bounty for the New Year. We know not what a day may bring forth, much less what the New Year has in store for us. But Thou art the same and so we put our trust in Thee, pray- ing that we may go forward into the unknown future, without fear or anxiety. Strengthen the faint-hearted, deliver the desolate, comfort the sad, encourage all to re- new their vows, to lay hold on Thee, and to abide under the shadow of the Almighty, in the confident persuasion that to them that love God all things work together for good in Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and for ever. The Lord's Prayer. [211] Deacidified using the Bookkeeper process Neutralizing agent: Magnesium Oxide Treatment Date: August 2005 PreservationTechnologies A WORLD LEADER IN PAPER PRESERVATION 1 1 1 Thomson Park Drive Cranberry Township PA 160S' (724)779-21-'^