I shall not here attempt to discuss how far state-lotteries are lawful, or
not. But so well does government suit the 'bait' to the ambition or avarice
of men—by some financial prizes—that there is always a world of adventurers.
And as among them, there may be some well-meaning people—I shall drop a few
thoughts for their consideration.
Can we be so happy in the mere expectation of a prize,
where we may be readily disappointed; and not exult in the heavenly
treasures, which can never deceive us? Can we find such thrills of joy in
winning a large prize—which we must leave behind us; and yet our hearts not
beat with rapturous joy at the heavenly gift, at the pearl of great
price—being eternally our own? If a little of this world places us in such
easy circumstances in life—how enriching the treasures of glory!
Let me only desire what the 'bank of bliss' will bestow.
Not the trifling riches of this world—but durable riches and righteousness.
There is no disappointment here to stab our expectation, and sadden our
countenance. No—but a kingdom and a crown, endless bliss, and eternal glory!
The greatest sum I may now acquire, cannot prevent me
from becoming a bankrupt. But, my 'celestial stores' can never be spent—they
cannot so much as be counted! But a few figures will contain all the sums
that were ever lost or gained in every state lottery, in every land. How
poor is the richest unbeliever! How rich is the poorest saint!
Earthly things only please an earthly appetite—but the
delights of paradise, the bliss of heaven, and the enjoyment of God—feast
and ravish forever! None shall be disappointed with heaven—but shall have
delights as large as they can wish, and boundless as they can desire!
Here, if a person wins the lottery, it is the most that
he can expect. But those who receive of the 'heavenly bounty' shall have
every enriching prize—not for the short period of sixty, eighty, or an
hundred years—but forever! He shall have pardon of sin, and peace with God!
In a word, he shall have heaven, and all the joys of paradise; endless life,
and all the glories of eternity; and God and his infinite fullness, world
without end!