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for years been seeking to complete the "contain- THE GREAT DIVIDE ment" of Soviet power across the Middle Eastern Gap. EVER since the close of World War II the Hope was first placed in the Arab League, set focus of East-West antagonism has moved back up in 1945, but this was alienated by Western and forth between Europe, the Far East, and support for the establishment of the new state South-east Asia. For a brief period, in early 1946, of Israel. it looked as if Soviet power was planning to press Then an attempt was made to build up a compre- southward to the Mediterranean and the Persian hensive Middle East Treaty Organization linked Gulf. In fact, the very first dispute which the with N.A.T.O. in the West and S.E.A.T.O. in the Security Council of the United Nations met to East, but this also failed because of the rivalry discuss was concerning Soviet activity in Northern between Turkey and Egypt and the problem of Iran. But after Russian failure to get a foothold the incorporation of Israel. in Libya and to secure control of the Dardanelles, Finally, the most fruitful idea seemed to be the the pressure on Persia was withdrawn and Russia building of a "Northern Tier" by linking together seemed almost disinterested in the Middle East the states from the Bosphorus to the Khyber Pass, until it was suddenly announced that an arms whose frontiers marched with the Soviet Union. deal had been negotiated between Czechoslovakia, Turkey and Iraq were first linked together, a Soviet satellite, and Egypt, and that similar offers Pakistan soon joined, and last of all Iran associated had been made to other Middle Eastern powers herself with the three other nations, completing a like Saudi Arabia and Syria. defence line whose only defect is the Afghanistan Almost overnight the Middle East became the bulge which nearly cuts Iran off from Pakistan, world's danger spot number one. and into which Russia is doing its best to "The arms deal has thrown a bombshell into infiltrate. the whole Middle Eastern situation," declared Then just as the Western powers were congrat- one Western diplomat. ulating themselves on the final link in their "In this region," commented the Manchester containment policy, Russia leapt over the wall of Guardian, "Russia has now begun once again to nations which had been so laboriously built up operate. Pretty evidently it has a long-term plan." and began to draw together a "Southern Tier" Actually, the Western powers should not have by her arms offers and commercial agreements. been surprised at the sudden awakening of Russian So, at the present time, while the Western activity along her southern borders, for they had powers are working hard to make the Zagros Line

COVER PICTURE: Ploughing © J. Allan Cash. PRICE: FOURPENCE strong enough to oppose any thrust southward Not long ago, we came across a remarkable con- on the part of the Soviet Union, Russia is doing firmation of this little-recognized trend in a rather its best to weaken it by fomenting trouble among surprising quarter, namely the columns of the the southern Arab nations, as well as in Cyprus Catholic Herald, one of the most influential Catho- and North Africa. lic papers in this country. To the student of Bible prophecy the recent Writing under the nom-de-plume of "Postu- developments in this region cannot but be of the lans," a correspondent said: most solemn import, for the prophecies of Daniel "It seems pretty clear that most Catholics have and the Revelation both point to these ancient the wrong idea concerning the South India lands of the Bible as the vortex of the final world Church," which has been formed by , the amal- conflagration in which God will decisively inter- gamation of the Anglican, Presbyterian, Methodist, vene for the deliverance of His people and the and Congregationalist bodies in South India. establishment of His kingdom. "It is put down," the letter goes on, "to a re- The eleventh chapter of the book of Daniel vival of Protestantism in the Church of England, refers to a vast conflict between the kings of or at least to a conquest by the Protestant element "north" and "south" across the great divide of within its boundaries over the Anglo-Catholics. the Middle East, in which it is significantly stated In fact, it is not. . . . It is a part of a huge move- that the northern power will "stretch forth his ment throughout the Protestant world, embracing hand upon the countries: and the land of Egypt Lutherans and even Calvinists, which is moving shall not escape." Dan. 11:42. ever nearer to Catholic truth. . . . "They do not insist on much at first, but they In the sixteenth chapter of the book of Reve- as that lation it is indicated that the "drying up" of the hope that, in time, by an evolution such which is happening in the Church of England, River Euphrates, which is used symbolically of the those that they have joined will become more Arab peoples inhabiting the Euphrates region and more Catholic, until the time will come when (Rev. 9:14), will be an important factor in bring- they will be accepted into the Catholic Church in ing about the final clash of opposing forces at Then, Armageddon. (Rev. 16:12.) the West or the Greek Church in the East. they say, will be the time for real Christian unity." It is not possible here to discuss these prophecies Naturally, a Catholic observer, noting this trend, in detail, nor would it be wise to dogmatize as to would hope that its final goal would be the just how they will be fulfilled. But no-one looking reunion of all the separated churches under the up today from his open Bible upon these troubled rule of the Pope. The Scriptures make it quite lands can fail to realize that the stage is being very clear that this object will never be achieved, but dramatically set for just the kind of events en- they do foresee a working arrangement between visaged in the prophetic page. (Continued on page 17.) WHITHER REUNION ? © International News Papal troops parading in front of the church of St. ON many occasions in these Peter's, Rome. columns we have expressed our view that the reunion movement among the non-Roman churches of Christendom is tending not toward a Pan - Protestant opposition to Romanism, but toward a second World Catholic church parallel with Rome in everything except the recognition of the Supreme Pontiff. In other words, the re- union movement today is prepar- ing the way for the appearance of that "image of the beast" which, in the thirteenth chapter of the Revelation, is represented as the ally of Rome in the con- summation of the final apostasy. FEBRUARY 2, 1956 JESUS A E (04 YOU

t4P NATURE tells us of the wonder of God's power. Jesus Christ reveals to us the glory of God's grace, for it centres in Him. The story of Jesus is the unfolding of a plan of love, de- vised by a Mind of love, and culminating in love's greatest Gift. When in the beginning, mankind, through sin, had forfeited security, holiness, and life itself, God the Father was ready to make a sacrifice that is without parallel. He was willing for sorrow's By Knud Larsen C) Camera Clix sharpest arrow to pierce His own heart. To re- deem humanity, "He gave His only-begotten -Come unto Me." Jesus is still saying to sin weary souls. Son." The Majesty of Jesus Jesus Christ : "But unto the Son He saith, Thy The story of Jesus commences not on the plains throne, 0 God, is for ever and ever; a sceptre of of Galilee, but in the realms above. For Jesus righteousness is the sceptre of Thy kingdom." plainly stated : "I came down from heaven." Heb. 1:8. This stupendous revelation establishes John 6:38. Before He lived upon earth Jesus the position of the Lord Jesus as eternally "equal dwelt in heaven! For this reason, in prayer to His with God" (Phil. 2:6), and therefore as co-ruler Father, He was able to speak of the sovereign of the universe! That is why the prophets in glory which They shared together "before the predicting His coming to our earth could speak of world was." John 17 :5. His deity (Isa. 9:6), and declare: "But thou Everyone should understand the truth about the Bethlehem Ephratah, . . . out of thee shall He Son of God who, for man's sake, left the light of come . . . whose goings forth have been from God's presence to suffer and to die upon a sin- the days of eternity." Micah 5:2 (margin). cursed earth. Many do not appreciate the work of Christ because they fail to discern the identity Christ's Humanity and Mission of Christ. Those who regard Him as just another Reading the simple Bible account of the nati- man, however good, cannot possibly appreciate vity one cannot help but wonder how it was the miraculous element that surrounds His earthly possible for divinity to be merged with humanity life. as the Son of God. Its unique quality was, of The key to His purpose is His own person- course, the "sign" that God had promised should ality. There is recorded in Holy Writ a solemn characterize the coming of the true Messiah. (Isa. declaration by God on the status of His Son, 7:14.) Truly it was, and is, a great mystery. Yet

FOUR OUR TIMES is not the most amazing part of it all to be found Unto Calvary in the condescension of Jesus Christ taking upon In all this Jesus Christ may be seen as an Himself such humiliation? Could not an angel Example to those who would follow Him. But have been sent down to us ? The sober truth is how much more was He than that! It is true that no-one else in the universe was eligible to that Christ came to teach God's righteousness. He accomplish what Jesus has done for the human come to vindicate God's justice. He came to race. exemplify God's law. He came to demonstrate "There was no other good enough, God's love. But what else? He came, to reveal To pay the price of sin, God's mercy. "The Son of man," He said, "is He only could unlock the gates come to seek and to save that which was lost." Of heaven and let us in." Matt. 18:11. He was, and is, above all things our Saviour! Here's why. Mankind has violated that holy, In the unfolding drama of that incomparable righteous reflection of God's own character, His life it is easy to be gripped by the spell of its moral law. As "the Word" or spokesman for the highlights. The feeding of the five thousand, Father, it was Christ who framed that sacred standard in the form of the commandments made •••-•-••-••••••••••••••-••"•TVT.T•1.1""•-••••-•••••-•-•"••••••••-•-•-•T.-•• known to man. "For by Him [Christ) were all My Prayer things created, that are in heaven and that are Lord, now, before I start my day, in earth." Col. 1 :16. Since this law of living I pray Thee, take my sins away; is divine, Christ alone by reason of His divinity Grant me Thy truth that I may know How best to live this life below. was qualified acceptably to offer to bear in Him- —Rosemary J. Bailey. self the penalty of the broken law and to let guilty man go free. So, as eyewitnesses affirmed, "the Word was the healing of ten lepers, the quelling of the made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld raging sea, the raising from the dead of Lazarus, His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of are striking examples. They enthral. But as one the Father, full of grace and truth." John 1 :14. reads on intently there is a dawning conscious- This sublime passage sums up the marvel of the ness that all these things were the means to an Incarnation, when this world became the abode end. of "God manifest in the flesh." In each case the picture of active benevolence The brief gospel narratives give little informa- points sharply to the sacrificial climax of His tion concerning the childhood of Jesus. Yet from life-work: "The Son of man came not to be the beginning, as "the Child grew, and waxed ministered unto, but to minister," and then, to strong in spirit, filled with wisdom and the grace its unbelievable consummation, "to give His life a of God" (Luke 2:40), His life in all its un- ransom for many." Matt. 20:28. assuming goodness and purity "was the Light of In contemplation of the cross the spirit is men." John 1 :4. Quite early, to the developing hushed, and words fail. "When He came unto His own, His own received Him not." "They took Jesus . . . they crucified Him." John 19:16-19. "God so loved" man that He gave us Jesus. By G. Elliott Think it not strange then that our heavenly Father should ask, "What could have been done more . . . that I have not done?" Isa. 5:4. Should we defer for even another hour the mind of "the Son of man" the Spirit of the Lord decision to accept with joy "the inexpressible began to convey the holy secret of His deity and Gift" that God offers to each one of us in the mission. (Luke 2:49.) crucified One? Repentance, p a r d o n, cleansing, Then, almost abruptly, the pattern of redemp- holiness, and in the end "eternal life through tion begins to take shape. With loving ardour Jesus Christ our Lord." These are ours for the Christ proceeded to "heal the broken-hearted," asking! free those in captivity to sin, restore the sick and Oh, won't you give Him the opportunity to sightless, and "preach the Gospel" of forgiveness say right now, "Rejoice with Me for I have found to all who could be made to sense their need. My sheep, which was lost" ? Luke 15 :6. That is (Luke 4:18.) how the story of Jesus can end for you. FEBRUARY 2, 1956 FIVE The Man Who

Said A Nothing!

Saviour had been present earlier, the cruel hand of death would certainly have been stayed. Yet, even now, the arrival of Christ brought them a depth of comfort they had not known before, as well as the dawning of a vague hope they scarcely dared to indulge. We may well picture that memorable scene be- fore the massive stone door of the grim sepulchre. The stricken sisters with the Lord and His ex- pectant disciples, standing within a motley circle of curious and sceptical onlookers. The watchers, both friends and strangers alike, behold the Master moved with an unusual emotion. By Carl Bloch They note His moist eyes raised to heaven, as "Lazarus, come forth." His lips move in prayer. Then, a moment later, they are startled and (it PROBABLY one of the closest friends that awed to hear His sudden, authoritative clarion- Jesus, during His earthly ministry, ever had, apart call, "Lazarus, come forth !" from the intimate circle of the apostles themselves, "And he that was dead came forth" from the was Lazarus of Bethany, the brother of Martha shadowy interior of the tomb, struggling to free and Mary. His country home was the one quiet himself from the loathsome burial-bonds which retreat where our Lord could always find a warm bind no longer. and sympathetic welcome, whenever He was in the Some time ago, two men were discussing the vicinity of Jerusalem. prospect of reward or punishment in a life be- The time came however, sadly enough, when yond this present existence. At length one turned this unassuming but beloved man contracted a to the other and remarked: "Of what use is our severe malady which speedily proved fatal. Soon speculation, since no-one returns from the dead after the decease, according to Eastern custom and to report." necessity, the body was sorrowfully conveyed to But that statement is not completely true. For if the sepulchre. So that by the time Jesus and His we accept the relevant Bible passages as factual, disciples arrived from Perea, four days had several individuals, in various ages, have "come elapsed since Lazarus had breathed his last. back" from the dead. We are all acquainted with the touching story There was the widow's son whom Elijah raised. of how the dead man's sisters encountered Jesus. (1 Kings 17 :21.) There was the godly and in- How they were both so confident that if only the dustrious Dorcas whom Peter raised. (Acts 9:40.) SIX OUR TIMES There was the daughter of Jairus, the young man although numerous passages in the Old Testament of Nain, as well as Lazarus of Bethany, whom speak of death as an unconscious sleep, the New Jesus raised. (Matt. 9:18; Luke 7:15; John 11: Testament teaching on death is directly the op- 44.) posite of that and reveals that the departed go Nothing to Tell immediately to Paradise or punishment. On one occasion only our Saviour did make Surely, each and all of these people, having use of a vivid parabolic illustration which was "returned" from the portals of the tomb, would similar in content and intention to some Old have a wonderful story to tell, an awe-inspiring Testament parables which were well-known to the experience to relate, if indeed they had, during Jews. (Compare Luke 16:20-31 with Isaiah 14: the time of their departure from this life, ac- 4-11 and Ezekiel 18:18-21.) In its setting and tually been "present with the Lord" in heaven? content, the illustration of Dives and Lazarus But one and all, they were silent. Their silence was never intended to be a literal portrayal of cannot be without profound significance. The ex- actual facts. Its aim was to rebuke Pharisaical planation must be that they said nothing simply covetousness and by the very vividness of its because they had nothing to say. During the hours imagery to drive home the utter futility of trust- or days they were dead they had no conscious ing to either riches or race in the attaining of experience. Therefore upon their re-vivification eternal life. they had nothing to relate. They had felt nothing. Apart from that obviously parabolic illustration, They had known nothing. (Eccles. 9:5.) Therefore the Saviour's literal teaching, and the apostles' they had no knowledge to pass on to us, no in- literal teaching concerning man's condition in formation to give, as a result of their unique death, are plain. ordeal, concerning either future reward or punish- Jesus told His sorrowing disciples, deeply con- ment. cerned for their friend's welfare, "Lazarus . . . Shakespeare's Hamlet remarks, as he weighs the sleepeth." Further, He assured the stricken Jairus advisability or otherwise of continued existence: and his wife, even over the still form of their beloved child, "The damsel . . . sleepeth." Mark "For in that sleep of death, who knows 5 :39. What dreams may come?" The Saviour would not, at such a time, taunt their broken hearts or add to their natural grief Well, it is evident that God knows what by employing any verbal subtlety or bewildering "dreams" or conscious experiences may come euphemism. He was too much and too often during that sound sleep of death—none at all. "moved with compassion" for suffering and be- Death is a timeless and untroubled rest until He reaved humanity for that. (Matt. 9:36; 14:14.) shall come who alone, by His divine prerogative No, Jesus was anxious to inform those im- and power, shall be able to say: "Awake thou mediately bereaved, and us, that death is simply that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ a sleep, and that the power to arouse from that shall give thee light." Eph. 5:14. sleep resides alone in Him. There are some, however, who assert that Consistent Bible Testimony With the Saviour's teaching on death agree other writers in the New Testament. Matthew de- clares that at the moment of Christ's sacrificial death: "Many . . . of the saints which slept arose." Matt. 27:52. Luke, speaking of Stephen's death, asserts, "He fell asleep." Acts 7:60. Paul repeatedly speaks of death as a sleep. "They . . . which are fallen asleep in Christ." "I show you a mystery; we shall not all sleep." "We . . . shall not prevent them which are asleep." 1 Cor. 15:18, 51; 1 Thess. 4:15. Peter speaks of the time, "Since the fathers fell asleep." 2 Peter 3 :4. And John further adds: (Continued on page 17.) FEBRUARY 2, 1956 SEVEN Footprints of Faith

7. Iliatheituatits. acid NOttitef#

By Paul Cumings

seats. His mind first turned to mathematical pro- jects and he was the first to introduce the decimal point. To him may be credited perhaps the earliest form of slide rule for rapid mathematical cal- culations, though it actually took the form of a number of small rods and was facetiously known Photo by P. Comings as "Napier's Bones." By its aid fairly rapid multi- • The Queen Margaret chapel in Edinburgh Castle plication, division, and square-root determination recalls the ardent Catholic Queen who compelled were possible. the submission of the Celtic church to Rome. Napier was greatly stirred by the preaching of Knox and went even further than did the preacher 4J BEFORE taking leave of this most interesting in interpreting many portions of Bible prophecy. city of Edinburgh we drove westward through In 1593 he completed his Plaine Discovery of the Princes Street, this time entering Morningside Whole Revelation of Saint John, a volume which Road from the north, and shortly after, turning he dedicated to King James VI of Scotland. In off to the right into Colinton Road. Here, almost this work he fully set forth the "year-day" princi- immediately on entering this road, on the right ple for the interpretation of the prophetic time hand side, stands an eighteenth century archway periods of the Bible. "Each day" must be "for with rusticated piers and lions couchant. This a year," he reasoned, and his proof was found in provides the entrance to what was once Merchis- Ezekiel 4:5, 6 and Numbers 14:34. Then logi- ton Hall and now marked on the town map as cally he concluded that a prophetic week (see Merchiston Castle. Much of the original estate has Daniel 9:24, 25) must be a "weeke of yeares" been encroached upon by modern dwellings, but that is, seven years. Studying Daniel, chapters the evidence of the original town seat of the seven and eight, along with their allied messages Napier family is still evident. Merchiston was at in Revelation, chapters twelve and thirteen, he one time a village just outside the city and the came to the reasonable conclusion that the 1,260 birthplace of Lord John Napier (1550-1617), days (prophetic years) in the latter (Rev. 12:6) well known to most mathematicians since he in- was one and the same period as the "forty and vented logarithms. two months" (Rev. 13 :5) and the three and a half "times" found in both (Dan. 7:25; Rev. Logarithms and Prophecy 12:14). His father was the Master of the Mint and In this important background work on the had, in addition, a country seat at Dartress in mathematics of Bible prophecy, Napier rendered Stirlingshire. At the age of thirteen the brilliant a valuable service to future expositors, laying a young son entered St. Andrew's University and firm foundation in this important field of study. later studied in Paris, Italy, and Germany where, The Encyclopedia Britannica says of his book that like Hamilton and Knox, he became infected with it was "the first important Scottish work on the Lutheran teaching. Returning to his native land interpretation of prophecy." The prophetic word he settled down as a student recluse at the family in his hands was truly "a more sure word" (2

EIGHT OUR TIMES Peter 1:19), and the blaze of light that had kindled in the first sermon of John Knox at St. Andrews now became a "light that shineth more and more" as Napier wrestled with its deeper meaning. As Dr. Adam Clarke says: "There was scarcely a Protestant in Europe who read his works, but was not of the same opinion." Time never stood still in Edinburgh—never for us either. Besides the places referred to in our story here we managed a lightning tour of the city and a climb up into that formidable stronghold, the castle. We were loath to take our departure early the following morning by way of the Linlithgow-Stirling road exactly twenty- four hours after entry by way of Berwick and Haddington on the south-east. Twenty-four hours! Twenty-four days could never suffice to unlock all the treasures there to be found of the early study and effect of the prophetic Word. Nor would they permit our treading in all the ancient foot- prints of faith, there to be found, that remain Photo by P. Cumings The restored monastery of Columba on the Isle today as footholds for a modern world that is of Iona. searching, mostly elsewhere and elusively, for security, hope, and peace. utterance, the second coming of our Lord Jesus It was in Linlithgow that we met two modern Christ! "If I go away," said He, "I will come representatives in this fascinating field of prophetic again." (John 14:1-3.) interpretation. A husband and wife, they were missionaries on furlough from East Africa and On to Iona both a part of the world-wide movement created It could scarcely have been a more pleasant a century ago as a result of certain clear convic- journey on through the Trossachs, with just a tions concerning Bible prophecy. We accompanied glance up the very tempting road marked "To them on into the grounds of Stirling Castle. Here, Glencoe." But we had to be at Oban by nightfall, beneath the powerful statue of Bruce, who gazes with our camp pitched, and all prepared to take and points with outstretched arm over a vast ex- the early morning steamer to the magic Isle of panse of country before the castle battlements, we Iona. Three and a half miles long and one and a bade farewell to our missionary friends. Bruce, half miles broad, perhaps more literature and con- Scotland's greatest king, brought independence to jecture gather around this tiny spot than around his country. We were in the service of another any other similar-sized territory in the British King, One who intends to bring freedom to the Isles. It may be sheer coincidence that the word whole world and who today is surely surveying "dove" in Hebrew is "Iona" and in Latin it is with saddened eyes (Luke 18:8) a world that is "Columba." We wondered! the latter is the name rejecting the great focal-truth of all prophetic of an Irish monk who sailed here from Ireland in a coracle boat with twelve brother monks in May, A.D. 563. Patrick had long since evangelized Photo by P. Comings Ireland and now Christianity began to spread The burial place of the early Scottish kings at Iona. eastward into Scotland and Northern England from the monastery established by Columba in Iona. In those days there were no universities and the monastery was the seat of culture and learning. As our steamer completed its two and three- quarter hour journey from Oban we found our- selves being shipped in small motor boats to the landing jetty close by Martyr's Bay. The island was shrouded in heavy mist, not at all ideal for (Continued on page 17.) NINE Inseparable with His coming is His millennial reign. That period, usually called the millennium, always has intrigued students of the Bible, and small wonder, for here is the definite promise of one thousand years of unbroken peace—one thou- sand years when Satan is bound and can no longer tempt men; one thousand years when sin is com- pletely banished from among men. "And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, and cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, that he should

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deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be ful- filled." Rev. 20:1-3. So dazzling has this outline of the millennium proved that all kinds of wierd theories have grown around it. Some claim that man will spend the millennium with Christ on earth. Others feel that man will spend the millennium with Christ in heaven. Some look upon the By Franklin Booth © R. & H. thousand years as man's second In the heavenly mansions the saints will await, chance, while others go so far as to declare that during the millennium, the final restoration of the earth as their eternal home. during this period the world will be converted. Let us put aside our preconceived ideas, then, and TODAY, as every day, the heart cry of count- search the Scriptures for ourselves, that the truth less millions is for peace—real peace. The world of this mighty subject may be clear to all. craves peace not only from war, but from want, from the ever-increasing hazards of living; but Nearly all the direct Bible teaching about the humanly speaking, there is no vestige of hope of millennium occurs in Revelation, chapter twenty. this. More and more it becomes increasingly ap- As we have already seen, it centres about the parent that the promise of Jesus' return is the dramatic binding of Satan, as outlined in the only hope left to the world. first three verses of that chapter. Obviously this

T E N OUR TIMES binding must be figurative, for you just can't hold a supernatural being with a chain of iron! Timely Topics.-3

Marked by Two Resurrections During this thousand years the righteous live previous studies that the resurrection of God's and reign with Jesus. "And I saw the souls of people occurs when Jesus returns the second time them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, in glory. Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 4:16: and for the Word of God, and which had not "For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ their hands; and they lived and reigned with shall rise first." Thus the thousand-year period Christ a thousand years." Rev. 20:4. starts at the second coming of Christ. Notice that not only those living at the be- When Jesus returns, He not only raises the ginning of the millennium have this privilege, dead, but He takes those who are alive and faith- fully following Him to be with Him in heaven. "T h e n we which are alive and remain • ; ; shall be caught up together 'Y4., • yap ; with them in the clouds to t meet the Lord in the air: and • • ' ' • so shall we ever be with the ''•4• ' •••.• • ••• f 17.1 • 1: • • 4 Lord." 1 Thess. 4:17. So the beginning of the millennium finds all the saints in heaven.

The Wicked All Destroyed But what will happen to V.* those who have not heeded the wonderful plan of salvation by • le 44., the time of Jesus' appearing? 452' tVi 010 sea' C'e •=lia -. Again Paul gives us the an- --•Kr • • swer, this time in his second epistle to t h e Thessalonian but those who died through the ages are with church, chapter two and verse eight. "And then Christ as well. The martyrs, those heroes of God, shall that wicked be revealed, whom the Lord slain for "the witness of Jesus" are now living shall consume with the spirit of His mouth, and and reigning with Jesus. But if the righteous dead shall destroy with the brightness of His coming." are now living, obviously the resurrection has What a tragic picture it is, that in spite of all taken place. (See Revelation 20:5, last part.) Thus that Jesus has done, there are some who just will the millennium commences with the resurrection not be saved and who will be destroyed by the of the righteous. But verse five tells us that "the very glory of the returning Saviour. rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand Now notice carefully what we have established. • years were fulfilled." Thus the millennium is The righteous are in heaven with Jesus, and the bounded by two resurrections—that of the wicked are lying dead upon the earth. How many righteous marking its opening, while the resur- then are left alive upon the earth during this rection of the wicked marks its close. thousand-year period? Why, not a single soul! To make this clear we suggest you refer to the The earth during this time is empty and desolate, diagram accompanying this article. The portion and is completely devoid of all human life. between the two sets of upright lines marks the Here then is the chain with which Satan is thousand-year period, while the upright lines them- bound, a chain of circumstances far stronger than selves indicate certain vital events that occur at any chain of steel. Satan is bound because he has the beginning, or the ending, of the millennium, not a solitary living soul on whom he can work; as the case may be. Now we have established that Christ's millen- xtttstttti-ttmt-ttti-tti-ti-ttttttttt' nial reign starts with the resurrection of the By Kenneth A. Elias righteous, but immediately we remember from

FEBRUARY 2, 1956 ELEVEN no-one to tempt or delude for one thousand years; bid for liberty. "And he shall go out to deceive nothing but desolation and ruin around him, as a the nations which are in the four quarters of the direct result of his rebellion against God. earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together Jeremiah describes for us this tragic picture: to battle: the number of whom is as the sand of "I beheld the earth, and lo, it was without form the sea." Verse 8. and void; and the heavens and they had no light . . . I beheld, and, lo, there was no man, and all The Second Death the birds of the heaven were fled. I beheld, and, At this time the Holy City, the New Jerusalem, lo, the fruitful place was a wilderness, and all descends with Christ and the redeemed. (Rev. the cities thereof were broken down at the pre- 21:2.) Seizing their opportunity, the great host sence of the Lord, and by His fierce anger." Jer. of the lost, "went up on the breadth of the earth, 4:23-26. and compassed the camp of the saints about, and You will notice that here a familiar phrase is the beloved city." But as victory seems in their used. The chaotic earth Jeremiah is describing is grasp, fire comes down from God out of heaven, said to be "without form and void." That is, the and devours them. (Rev. 20:9.) Not only are the earth has gone back to its pre-creation chaos. "And wicked destroyed in this fire, but Satan is eternally the earth was without form, and void; and dark- put an end to as well. "And the devil that de- ness was upon the face of the deep." Gen. 1 :2. ceived them was cast into the lake of fire and Thus the earth during the millennium, contrary brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet to popular opinion, will be completely desolate are, and shall be tormented day and night for and empty, and in that "bottomless pit" Satan ever and ever. And death and hell were cast into will be confined until the thousand years are over. the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of What Is Happening in Heaven? life was cast into the lake of fire." Rev. 20:10, 14, Next we find that this millennium is a period 15. of great activity in heaven above. The battle be- Then will be fulfilled the wonderful verse in tween Christ and Satan is truly won, but a very the next chapter: "And God shall wipe away all important thing has to be done. It is often said tears from their eyes, and there shall be no more of earthly justice that "not only must justice be death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall done, but that justice must be seen to be done," there be any more pain; for the former things and God will follow just this plan. To this end are passed away." Rev. 21:4. the host of the redeemed in heaven are to act as At last sin and sinners are vanquished. Now the a great jury who will review the evidence on plan of salvation is complete. Now can be given which the wicked have been condemned. "And I to the redeemed the paradise lost in the beginning. saw thrones, and they that sat upon them, and "Behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; judgment was given to them." Rev. 20:4. Speak- and the former shall not be remembered, nor ing of this judgment, Paul declares: "Do ye not come into mind." In that new, or recreated heavens know that the saints shall judge the world ? and if and earth will dwell righteousness, peace, and the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy happiness eternally. to judge the smallest matters? Know ye not that Yes, the message of the millennium is a mighty we shall judge angels?" 1 Cor. 6:2, 3. one—one of sure and certain victory over evil. But if in the destruction of the wicked Satan It is a mighty warning too, for clearly there will was bound, in the resurrection of the wicked Satan be no second chance for wayward men after Jesus must be loosed once more. This is just what the comes, nor, tragic to relate, will the world be Bible declares : "And when the thousand years converted. "Now is the accepted time; now is the are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his day of salvation." prison." Rev. 20:7. The "little time" he has is Friend, soon, sooner than perhaps you think, used to marshal the forces of the lost in one last Jesus will return. Won't you

Mr CMS, Ilk. W u Wimp determine that now, while

Blessed Are The 'Meek

By J. C. French

He had told the disciples: "Learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart." This blessing upon meekness was designed to be a safeguard against self-interest. Jesus wanted us to think more of others than of ourselves. And how wonderful an example He set us. Paul wrote to the Philippians about this example: "Al- though from the beginning He had the nature of God, He did not reckon His equality with God a treasure to be tightly grasped. Nay, He stripped Himself of His glory and took on Him the nature of a bondservant by becoming a man like other men." Phil. 2:6, 7. (Weymouth.) While He was on an equality with God, He forfeited His glory for the purpose of By Klinke @ Camera Clix saving man. Christ stooped low to save humanity. Jesus is our supreme Example of meekness for He Would that we might learn more of this said, "I am meek and lowly of heart" beautiful spirit of humility and meekness. But so often it happens that self is enthroned. As one modern religious writer put it: "Human nature ORDINARILY, meekness would probably not be is ever struggling for expression, ready for con- in our list of the more important qualities. We test; but he who learns of Christ is emptied of might place courage and fearlessness perhaps, and self, of pride, of love of supremacy, and there is such characteristics as integrity and honesty higher silence in the soul. . We have no ambition to on the list. But it should be noted that, in the first crowd and elbow ourselves into notice; but we place, the word "meek" does not imply a lack of feel that our highest place is at the feet of the courage, for a man can be very brave and very Saviour. . . . It is the love of self that destroys meek at the same time. We have the classic ex- our peace. While self is all alive, we stand ready ample of Moses, of whom it was said: "Now the continually to guard it from mortification and in- man Moses was very meek, above all the men sult; but when we are dead, and our life is hid which were upon the face of the earth." Num. with Christ in God, we shall not take neglects or 12:3. Again, we can conceive of no greater or slights to heart. We shall be deaf to reproach, and braver man than Jesus Himself, yet we read: "Be- blind to scorn and insult." Yes, it becomes easy hold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek." Earlier living after we are dead.

FEBRUARY 2, 1 9 5 6 THIRTEEN In all probability, no-one, apart from Christ claimed, "How dark and filthy it is !" "It's better could so well understand the secret of this spiri- higher up," said her friend. Each floor they tual conflict as did the apostle Paul. He wrote to reached drew from the rich lady another com- the Corinthians : "Love is patient and kind. Love plaint, and each time it was answered by the knows neither envy nor jealousy. Love is not for- statement: "It's better higher up." ward and self-assertive, nor boastful and con- When at last they reached the fifth floor a ceited. She does not behave unbecomingly, nor pleasant sight greeted their eyes. There was a nice seek to aggrandize herself, nor blaze out in pas- carpet on the floor, flowering plants in the win- sionate anger, nor brood over wrongs. . . . She dow, and little birds sang. There, too, they found knows how to be silent; she is full of trust, full the bed-ridden incurable just beaming with joy. of hope, full of patient endurance." Said the lady: "It must be very hard for you to lie here?" She smiled and said: "It's better Making Home Happy higher up." Yes, the soul drawn to a contem- This spirit of meekness will have a truly ex- plation of spiritual things will always be led to hilarating effect in the home. Our homes may not exclaim : "It's better higher up." possess many fascinating and expensive ornaments One day the prophecy of the Psalmist will come but they can possess one ornament far excelling true: "The meek shall inherit the earth, and shall all others, the "ornament of a meek and quiet delight themselves in the abundance of peace." spirit, which is in the sight of God of great The lesson of true meekness may be hard to learn, price." So wrote the apostle Peter. but if we succeed, we shall gain an inheritance Now, it has been said that home is the place far more worth while than we shall ever deserve. where we get treated the best and where we The most glorious landscape we have ever seen grumble the most. Perhaps home is the most will be eclipsed by the eternal beauties of the difficult place in which to exercise the quality of heavenly Canaan. We shall see the King, the meekness. True meekness, the meekness of Christ, King of kings in all His beauty. in the home will "make the inmates happy, it We are like heirs about to enter into our in- provokes no quarrel, gives back no angry answer, heritance; and although we may lack rich relatives, but soothes the irritated temper and diffuses a we do have a wealthy heavenly Father whose gentleness that is felt by all within its charmed riches are inexhaustible. And one glad day, when circle." That is the kind of home we want, a little the battles of life are all over, and the victories heaven to go to heaven in, where the sweet spirit gained, we shall hear the wondrous words of the of Jesus animates and controls each member of the Master say: "Come, ye blessed of My Father, family. inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the "Better Higher Up" foundation of the world." "Blessed are the meek, The promise given to the meek is that they shall for they shall inherit the earth." "inherit the earth." They certainly do not inherit the earth today. The love of power, not the power of love, dominates the thinking of the world. Praise There is untold distress caused through selfish I shall never cease to praise Him, aggression. National frontiers bristle with sus- Who has saved my soul from sin. picion. The plight of multitudes of displaced per- He has patiently bent o'er me, All my wayward heart to win. sons is still pitiable. There is criminal waste of foodstuffs in order to keep up the price. Food ex- He has banished by His presence All my ugly sin and pride, perts tell us that more than half the world is Everything that's dark and selfish underfed. With His precious blood to hide. But one glad day the "meek shall inherit the Giving victory, peace, and blessing earth." Utopian dreams will all be fulfilled and Where was grief and shame before; beyond the present dreary landscape there is a Now my joy shall be to witness, better land. Tell His love for evermore. A Christian worker once took a very wealthy Oh! that Love so great and tender! woman who constantly looked on the dark side Everlasting, deep, and free! May we follow all Thy biddings, of things to visit an old bed-ridden saint. She Ever keeping close to Thee. lived in a poor tenement building five stories up in the garret. On reaching the second floor, the C. Ruth Brown. rich lady drew her skirts about her as she ex- FOURTEEN OUR TIMES Nelson When was this promised "Seed" manifested? "But when the fullness of the time came, "The Gospel of the God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, that He might redeem Grace of God" them which were under the law that we might receive the adoption of sons." Gal. 4:4, 5, R.V. What is the Gospel called? "The ministry, which I received from the In the first Gospel promise, what two persons were Lord Jesus, to testify the Gospel of the grace involved? of God." Acts 20:24. "For if by the trespass of the one the many died, much more did the grace of God, and What is the first intimation of grace in the Bible? the gift of the grace of the one Man, Jesus "And I will put enmity between thee and Christ, abound unto the many." Rom. 5:15, the woman, and between thy seed and her R.V. "For as in Adam all die, so also in Seed; It shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt Christ shall all be made alive." 1 Cor. 15: bruise His heel." Gen. 3:15. 22, R.V. "To man the first intimation of redemption was communicated in the sentence pronounced upon What then is divine grace? Satan in the garden. . . . This sentence, uttered "But God, being rich in mercy, for His in the hearing of our first parents, was to them a great love wherewith He loved us, even promise. While it foretold war between man and when we were dead through our trespasses, Satan, it declared that the power of the great ad- quickened us together with Christ (by grace versary would finally be broken."—E. G. White have ye been saved.)" Eph. 2:4, 5, R.V. in Patriarchs and Prophets, pages 65, 66. tti-tttimtttirttmttstti-tirti-ktttt How extensive was the blessing to be communi- By J. A. McMillan cated through the divine "Seed"? “44 4.1 4444444444444444..44.44444 4 "And the . . . Lord called unto Abraham . . . and said, . . . and in thy Seed shall all Is there any other possible means by which we the nations of the earth be blessed." Gen. may be saved? 22:15, 18. "And in none other is there salvation: for neither is there any other name under Who is identified as this 'Seed of Abraham"? heaven, that is given among men, wherein "Now to Abraham were the promises we must be saved." Acts 4:12, R.V. spoken, and to his Seed. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And What enabled Noah to live a godly life? to thy Seed, which is Christ." Gal. 3:16, "But Noah found grace in the eyes of the R.V. Lord." Gen. 6:8. FEBRUARY 2, 1956 FIFTEEN "It is the grace that Christ implants in the From what then has Christ freed us? soul which creates in man enmity against Satan. "Christ bath redeemed us from the curse of Without this converting grace and renewing the law, being made a curse for us." Gal. power, man would continue the captive of Satan, 3:13. a servant ever ready to do his bidding. But the :'Christ hath won the victory! Here is the grand new principle in the soul creates conflict where news! And we are saved by His work, not by our hitherto had been peace. The power which Christ works."—Martin Luther. imparts, enables man to resist the tyrant and usurper. Whoever is seen to abhor sin instead of Are we then to dispense with works? loving it, whoever resists and conquers those pas- "For by grace are ye saved through faith; sions that have held sway within, displays the and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of operation of a principle wholly from above."— God: not of works, lest any man should E. G. White in Great Controversy, pages 505, 506. boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God What did God's grace do for Noah? hath before ordained that we should walk "God . . . spared not the old world, but in them." Eph. 2:8-10. saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher This may appear paradoxical to some. We are of righteousness." 2 Peter 2 :4, 5. to obey the law of God, but not to seek justifica- tion by the deeds of the law. We are to walk in Did grace preserve Lot amid Sodom's gross iniqui- good works, but not to boast of their merit. Our ties? standing before God is not on the basis of law, "And Lot said unto them, Oh, not so, my or what we have done for Him; but on the basis Lord. Behold now thy servant bath found of grace, or what He has done for us. grace in thy sight and Thou bast magnified Thy mercy, which Thou bast showed unto me in saving my life." Gen. 19:18, 19. How does Paul reconcile law and grace? "And delivered righteous Lot, sore distressed "Do we then by means of this faith abolish by the lascivious life of the wicked." 2 Peter the law? No, indeed; we give the law a fir- 2:7, R.V. mer footing. . . . All depends on faith, and for this reason—that acceptance with God What contrast does John draw? might be an act of pure grace, so that the "For the law was given by Moses, but grace promise should be made sure to all Abra- and truth came by Jesus Christ." John 1:17. ham's true descendants." Rom. 3 :31; 4: This does not mean that neither grace nor truth 16, 17 (Weymouth). was administered in the days of Moses, for this "He who is trying to become holy by his own would contradict the clear teaching of Scripture. works in keeping the law, is attempting an im- The law defines righteousness and its opposite, possibility. All that man can do without Christ sin. (Psa. 119:172; 1 John 3:4.) The law exposes is polluted with selfishness and sin. It is the grace and condemns sin. (Rom. 4:15; 7:7.) Therefore of Christ alone, through faith, that can make us "the sting of death is sin; and the strength of holy. The opposite and no less dangerous error sin is the law." 1 Cor. 15 :56. On the other hand, is that belief in Christ releases men from keeping Jesus offers righteousness as a gift, through the the law of God; that since by faith alone we be- forgiveness of our sins. (Rom. 3:24, 25.) This come partakers of the grace of Christ, our works is grace. have nothing to do with our redemption."—E. G. White in Steps to Christ, pages 64, 65. What conclusion does Paul make? "For sin shall not have dominion over you: What then is God's grace destined to do for us? for ye are not under the law, but under "Bring forth therefore fruits answerable to grace." Rom. 6:14. amendment of life." Matt. 3:8 (margin). "Therefore let your lives prove your change Does this free the recipient of grace from obedi- of heart." (Weymouth). ence? "What then? shall we sin, because we are "The law is given that grace may be sought; not under the law, but under grace? God Grace is given that the law may be fulfilled."— forbid." Rom. 6:15. Augustine. SIXTEEN OUR TIMES The Man Who Said Nothing land would ever be but uncertainly known to the (Continued from page 7.) mind of man. Was Iona, as Queen Margaret claimed in the twelfth century, the product of rest." "Blessed are the dead . . . that they may Roman Catholic enterprise or did her faith stand Rev. 14:13. fast in the original Bible truths practised by the Surely then, in the light of these Scriptures, first century church of the New Testament? To it becomes evident why the humble Lazarus of attempt to solve this all but insoluble problem Bethany, after being so wonderfully restored to was the purpOse of our entry here. life, said nothing. He had no more comment to • make than have we, after a night's restful and dreamless sleep. Whither Reunion? Regular sleep is one of God's greatest gifts to (Continued from page 3.) a tired and distraught race. Yet, while we are the "beast" and his "image," with the "beast" benefiting under its benign and soothing influence, as the senior partner, as it were, which will result we are quite unconscious of it. It is only with the in the enslavement of all mankind in the final light of morning and returning consciousness that apostasy, except the faithful remnant which will we realize that we have been asleep. neither worship the "beast" nor his "image," nor So it will be with the saints of all the ages accept his "mark." who, as yet, peacefully sleep in Christ. Their joy When this remarkable comment on present will come "in the morning" as they behold the trends is linked with another recent statement by "Sun of Righteousness arise," and the dark sha- T. S. Gregory in The Tablet to the effect that • dows of their former sorrows will for ever flee "everything Catholics have ever believed is avail- away. able to the Ecumenical Movement. . . . The sole • exclusively Protestant conviction which unites and Mathematics and Prophecy embraces them all in every generation is No (Continued from page 9.) Popery," the development of this modem re- our photographic interests. Somehow that mist union movement among the non-Roman churches described more accurately than could any words will be followed with ever-increasing interest— our knowledge that the full story of this tiny and anxiety!

WHAT DOES IT HOLD ? * Will God permit sin & suffering to continue ? * Will Christ come again? * Will there be lasting peace? * Will the dead live again ?

The answers to these, and many other questions, are to be found in the Bible. Post this form today, and receive ENTIRELY FREE, the easy-to-understand Bible Lessons, on its great teachings and prophecies, especially prepared by the VOICE of GOD'S WORD PROPHECY BIBLE SCHOOL. REVEALS THE MR. TRUTH AND NAME MRS. ENABLES YOU MISS

TO FACE THE ADDRESS FUTURE WITH HOPE AND CONFIDENCE PLEASE USE BLOCK LETTERS The Voice of Prophecy Bible School, Stanborough Park, Watford, Herts, FEBRUARY 2, 195 6 SEVENTEEN gasped : "Look, Mac! Jacky! The gate didn't latch after all. What will we do now? We are so near Kathy's! Do you think we could take him with us? If only we hadn't played 'Long Steps' we'd be there now." "That's right, Mary," Mac admitted quietly. "But, maybe, if Jacky hadn't followed our steps, he would have gone the other way and tried to cross Broadway Avenue, and—" Mac stopped. The picture that came to his mind of Jacky toddling Xong dieps in Ike dnow across Broadway where traffic was so heavy was too frighten- By Everette Holmes ing. "I'm glad he did follow us. He's safer here," added Mac. THE twins, Mary and Mac, and also he could see that the For a minute the twins raced to the garage to hang up gate was closed. "Must be watched Jacky, struggling to their snow shovels. As they en- latched," he muttered, then he walk in their steps, then Mary tered the warm kitchen, Mac ex- raced on to catch up with Mary. called, "Wait, Jacky, we'll come claimed : "All done, Mother !" When they were near Kathy and get you," and Jacky asked, Mary added proudly: "All the and Jamie's house, the twins happily, "Me walk with you?" snow is cleared. Do you want us stopped and began cleaning the The twins ran back to him. to do anything more?" snow off their clothes. Suddenly They brushed the snow off his "No, thank you." Mary exclaimed : "What's that suit. Each took hold of one of Their mother smiled at them sound ?" his hands. Then they stood there. as she zipped baby Jacky's snow- "What sound ? I don't hear It was much nearer to Kathy's suit. "You did a fine job on the anything," said Mac, listening house than back to their own. paths. Now you may play with intently. "Kathy and I were going to Kathy and Jamie until lunch- Mary turned around slowly, make doll dresses today," Mary time." looking in every direction. Then said. "Maybe we should go on "Oh, thanks, Mother," the her bright smile faded as she and tell Kathy what happened." twins answered. "That's what we wanted to do." "Be sure the gate is latched," their mother told them. "Jacky is going to play in the garden." Sunbeams' Corner "We will," said the twins as they hurried out of the door. Your Letter Results of Competition No. 22 My dear Sunbeams, Mary opened the gate and went Prize-winnern—Irene Jones, 25 through. As Mac followed her AN American lady, when re- Dallington Road, Northampton. Age 10; he gave the gate a big push, let- visiting this country, said she Susan Taylor, 9 Council Cottages, often thought of the happy time Bottings Hill, Southwater, Sussex. Age ting it bang behind him. she had spent here. "And, do you 8 years. "Did it latch, Mac?" Mary know how I always thought of England?" she said one day. "I Honourable Mention.—James Sparkes asked. (Clapham Common); Ruth Balderstone "I expect so," Mac answered. always thought of it as the land (Garston); Anthony Peart (Chelten- of "k-you' and 'Sorry!' " ham); Trevor Goddard (I v e r); "It sounded like it." It was the kindness and the Marianne Nyary (Coventry); Juliet "All right then," said Mary, politeness of the people that she Nyary (Coventry); Eileen Jinks "come on. Let's play 'Long always remembered ; how when (Erdington); Pamela Jones (Barnes). Steps,' " and away she ran she did a favour for anyone, (Six Honourable Mentions w i n there was always a grateful a prize.) through the light, new snow, "Thank-you" (which sometimes Those who tried hard.—Marlene taking steps as long as possible sounded like "'k-you"), and al- Rust (Bethnal Green); Philip Puttifer while Mac followed, trying to ways a "Sorry" if anybody caused (Strood); Paul Brailsford (Woking- step exactly in her footprints. any inconvenience to anyone else. ham); Pat Marshall (Northampton); I think that was a lovely im- Mary Birch (Northampton); Lesley Mac stopped once and looked pression for any visitor to our Cleaver (Holloway); Alex Birch back. He could not help won- country to take away, don't you? (Rickmansworth); Margaret Peart (Cheltenham); J oh n Gunthorpe dering if the gate had latched. Yours affectionately, (Northampton); Michael Br o w n He could see Jacky in the garden, AUNTIE PAM. (Mangotsfield). EIGHTEEN OUR TIMES RIYO.VviimirVIv•I•VoMPRIRIRIVRIRRVIIRIvilmORPIONIR Ect,ttv Vlaittitt A little bird comes every day. To wake me as the sun creeps high; See how nicely He loudly taps the window pane, you can paint this picture and As if to say he's passing by. send it with your name, age, He has no message in his beak, and address to And will not eat the crumbs of Auntie Pam, The Stan- bread borough Press I scatter on the narrow sill, Ltd., Watford, Just above my comfy bed. Herts., not later than February 16th. He is not lame with broken leg, In case And happy his chirps seem to OUR TIMES be; arrives late, Perhaps he's lost a feathered still send your entry. friend, All attempts And just wants someone's com- will be pany. considered. Mollie D. Hetherington.

ANARRIAARRinasekaRnilkolk ofinOWANAnnnerni

Kathy's when you weren't there, Mac," she explained as she took Jacky's free hand in hers. "I know we can't leave Jacky now ; MEMORY VERSE: "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well he would really fuss. But, maybe, pleased" (Matthew 17:5). if we play with him the rest of the morning, Mother will let us She spoke hopefully, knowing play with Kathy. There is no go back to play with Kathy and that if they did that, Kathy need to spoil your fun because I Jamie while Jacky takes his nap would urge them to stay even was careless. Tell Jamie why I after lunch." though Jacky was with them. can't help him this morning, and Mac's eyes shone. How good of Mary, he thought, to come "We could, I suppose," Mac that I'm sorry. I'll take Jacky back and help him amuse Jacky! said, slowly taking a step in that home and tell Mother how he She hadn't scolded a bit, either, direction. "Jamie wanted me to got out. Then I'll stay and play because he hadn't made sure the help him with his new model with him." gate was latched. aeroplane. He's in a hurry to get 'Well-l-1," Mary sighed as she "Thanks, Mary, for coming it done. Maybe Jacky wouldn't let go of Jacky's hand. "I 'spose back," he said : "but you'll never bother us much." I might as well. I hate to dis- have to do it again. After this, Jacky, delighted to be walking appoint Kathy." She started on when I agree to do anything, with the twins, lunged ahead, toward Kathy's house while Mac I'm going to do it right!" pulling them with him. But, and Jacky started toward their somehow, the prospect of mak- home. Jacky looked 'after Mary and asked, "Mary come?" and ing doll clothes and model aero- The Bible and planes no longer seemed so Mac could only reply unhappily, OUR TIMES pleasant. "After a while." (Formerly "Present Truth") They walked along together Jacky trudged along beside Vol. 72. No. 3. Price 4d. for several steps. Then Mac ex- Mac. No playing "Long Steps" Printed and published in Great Britain claimed: "I can't do it, Mary ; now! No frolicking in the snow! fortnightly on Thursday by I can't. Mother will be worried Then, when they were nearly THE STANBOROUGH PRESS LTD., when she looks for Jacky and home, they heard someone call: WATFORD, HERTS. sees the open gate. She will know "Mac! Jacky! Wait !" Turning EDITOR : W. L. EMMERSON we didn't latch it, and she may around, the boys saw Mary run- Twelve months 12/— post free

think Jacky has gone over to- ning toward them. Six months 6/— post free ward Broadway. You go on and "I couldn't have any fun at FEBRUARY 2, 1956 NINETEEN

161111110/1 1i\V3111)) 1 p 11 /4got^e doz.4 By Herbert Logan

THE evening air seemed motionless ; the hung so heavily over me was lifted. I opened giant palm trees were still and silent as if my eyes and before I placed my head on the pil- standing sentinel over the mission compound low I looked at my watch—it was nine o'clock. in the heart of Africa. I leaned forward in my I awoke in the morning with a determination chair to ease the shirt which seemed glued to to make my way to the hospital as quickly as my back with perspiration. The day's work had possible. A borrowed motor-cycle provided ended, the two houseboys had left for their transportation. As I entered the building I was lL own living quarters at the rear of our mission spotted by the senior nursing sister whose first home. My thoughts drifted to the hospital some words to me were, "We have been looking for forty-five miles away where my wife and two you; we tried to contact you last night. After children lay sick with typhoid fever and the we had done all that we could for your little dreaded complications it brings with it in this girl the doctor looked at me and said, 'It is steaming jungle bushland of East Nigeria. hopeless ; send for the father.' My steps began I felt a keen pang of loneliness and distress. to falter and my heart thumped hard. "And What if my wife or little boy should die? What then," the nursing sister continued, "something if our little girl whom I had just taken to the strange happened as I sat by the cot waiting hospital that morning with a raging tempera- for that long last breath. About nine o'clock ture should die? Those questions thrust them- last night. . . ." selves with searching urgency upon my mind; "Nine o'clock?" I questioned. so that I forgot the croaking of the frogs, the "Yes, at nine o'clock last night," she con- whistling of the crickets, the buzzing of the tinued, "the look on her face changed, the flying ants, the stings of the mosquitos, and convulsions ceased, her body relaxed as though reached for my Bible. freed from the chains that bound her. I took Sweeter words had never sounded in my ear her temperature and it was normal. There is than those which said, "The prayer of faith no explanation for the sudden change; we have shall save the sick." I knelt down and stretched called it a miracle." out my hand to grasp an anchor for my soul. The latch of the door was in the nurse's hand "Dear God," I said, "please make my wife and and as she pushed it open I saw my little girl children well and strong if it is Your will." standing in her cot. "Daddy," she called, and Again and again I prayed clutching the mos- with her arms around my neck I remembered quito netting which draped the side of the bed what had happened at nine o'clock the night as if I were clinging to the last hold which lay before by my own bedside at home. Her grip between me and the "valley of the shadow." tightened while I raised my heart above and Suddenly the dark, oppressive cloud that had said, "Thank You, God, for the bended knee." I 1 \\\11\\ 11111