Signs of the Times

with contributions from W. H. Bourne, R. F. Pope

The Reverend W. H. Bourne in Chichester and Southdown Observer Chichester, Sussex, England

If we take too much notice of what other people say, or give very much heed to the opinions that can come upon us like shrapnel from a gun, we are never likely to achieve anything of spiritual value. . . .

There is much too often the sound of discouraging voices, the advice to play for safety and stay where there is sleepy tolerance. Christ's hardy pilgrims . . . must refuse to accept the lotus leaf that grows on every path they tread.

The Reverend R. F. Pope in the Sunday Telegraph Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

"It's not heavy in your hands!" The speaker was an elderly lady who had just joined the Inter-City Express. A man was helping her with her luggage, and as I looked up I saw him lift her heavy port up and place it in the rack.

"It's not heavy in your hands," she said gratefully to the stranger and then, with an air of relief, sat down.

The [elderly] lady's remark lingered in my mind and I began to think of the many people in this world who try to carry burdens beyond their strength, people who fail to realize that there is One Who will lift the heavy load if they will only ask Him. . . .

Doctors' surgeries and psychiatrists' rooms are often crowded with people who have never discovered the spiritual resources of faith. They, and many others, have tried to struggle on "single-handed," endeavoring to face the strain and stress of life "alone." God wants our life to be a partnership with Him.

It has been said that "Man's extremity is God's opportunity," but why wait for the crisis of life to drive us to God when He is there all the time, offering strength for every day.

In words of infinite compassion and understanding Jesus says, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28).

Why not accept His invitation? Reach out the hand of faith to Christ today and you will find that your burden, whether it be sorrow, anxiety, fear, worry, sickness, or whatever it is—your burden will not be heavy "in [His] hands."

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November 26, 1960

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