V. Revelation Through the Son.
1892 original text, YOGeBooks typeset transcription; original text extent only
The great central and growing thought of the present time is, “The brotherhood of man.” It is becoming clear that men cannot selfishly “save their own souls” out of relation with the salvation of others. The ties which bind the race into one bundle are divinely strong and close. That view of the visible Church which makes it an “ark of safety,” or a salvation assurance society for the individual soul, is passing away. Christ came to light not only “the elect,” but “every man that cometh into the world.” Every child of God is a link in the great golden chain of His love. The harmonious vibrations of human progress, as divinely instituted, are from within, outward. Service is the active manifestation of the indwelling Christ. True service is not menial, but willing, joyous, spontaneous. As men live outside of self,—have their life in their fellows and in God,—the divine image in them is uncovered. The false ego of sensuous personality is lost, and the true self found. God is Love; and love is the giving out of good. The Son, being a perfect expression of the Father, gave His service, His life. Himself.
“Love’s power to give, grades what it can receive;
Love that gives not, is not; it must bestow.
And God is love; hence, going forth must know
The power creative of itself; perceives
In action only all that love can be.
Who most can love, to him most love is given—
Unmeasured love is all there is of heaven!”
The multitudes were filled, and had a surplus, from a few loaves and fishes; and so, good, given out, multiplies. The great soul is he that forgets that he has a soul, in his efforts for the salvation of others.
O glorious mystery of the Incarnation! Thou art a prophecy of that greater and general Incarnation when the “Christ-mind” will dwell in the whole brotherhood of humanity. O bright and joyous Christmas-time— never-ending Holy-day! Thou art a witness to the ever-recurring birth of the Prince of peace in the hearts of men.
Source notes
2. Case of Rev. Howard Macqueary.
3. Rev. L. C. Baker in Words of Reconciliation (Monthly), Philadelphia.