This heavenly magnet!

(J. A. James, "The Attraction of the Cross" 1819)

"But God proves His own love for us, in that while we
 were still sinners, Christ died for us!" Romans 5:8

It magnifies the love of God, to consider the guilt,
sinfulness and unworthiness of its objects.

As an exhibition of unparalleled love, the cross melts
and captivates the heart! Think of the attraction of the
cross--when the love which it exhibits, is seen and felt
by a mind under the influence of the Holy Spirit.

What was it, my readers, which melted your hard and
frozen hearts into penitence, and gratitude and love?
What was it that drew you away from your sins? What
was it that brought you as willing captives to the feet
of Jesus? It was the love of God beseeching you upon
the summit of Calvary, and with open arms bidding
you welcome to the heart of Deity!

Everything else united to repel you. The terrors of justice
petrified you with horror, and despair was binding you
more closely than ever to your sins--until divine mercy
appeared and told you there was hope for the guilty--in
this heavenly magnet--the cross of Christ!