JESUS THE FORERUNNER.

 CHRIST ALONE

SEPTEMBER 29

JESUS THE FORERUNNER.

Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, 

  made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. 

                                                     Hebrews 6:20

Jesus, who came from Heaven to earth out of pure love to us, 

  in order to die for our sins and procure our salvation, 

 has gone back to Heaven as our forerunner. 

He not only points out the way,

   but he travels every step of it himself. 

He has removed every insurmountable difficulty 

  out of the way, 

  and left his own holy footprints to be our guide.

Can we complain, 

  if we only travel the path which Jesus has trodden 

    before us? 

He has entered into Heaven for us; 

  and when he entered, 

    he left the door wide open, 

      that we might follow him in. 

He points us to the path he has trodden, and says,

   "See, the way is open." 

He calls our attention to his present glorious residence, 

  and says, "Where I am, there shall you be also."

Precious Savior! glorious Forerunner! 

  O give us grace to follow you! 

And whenever tempted to relax our efforts,

  or loiter on our journey,

  or complain of the way,

   may we remember that you have traveled

   every step of the way before us, and 

   are now waiting to welcome us into your 

    presence and glory.

Jesus is gone before to announce our arrival. 

  He speaks of us as on the road. 

  He obtains for us the blessings we need. 

  He sends us all the supplies necessary. 

CHRIST ALONE could show such love, 

  manifest such kindness, 

     or exhibit such care.

My soul, keep your eye fixed on your glorious Forerunner, 

  and run the race set before you, looking unto Jesus. 

Amidst all your toils, think of the eternal rest;

  under all your conflicts, think of the glorious triumph; 

  and when tempted to turn aside, 

    look for the footprints of Jesus,

      they may be seen all along the road.

Holy Spirit, help us to think more of Jesus, 

  to confide more in Jesus, and 

    to expect more from Jesus!

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, 

  that is passed into the heavens, 

   Jesus the Son of God,

    let us hold fast our profession. 

                                      Hebrews 4:14

 JAMES SMITH 1855