The Happy Loss

James Smith, 1859

An Irish woman, a bigoted Roman Catholic, living in Kensington, obstinately refused to receive the visits of the City Missionary, or pay the least attention to anyone on religious matters — but her priest. In this state she continued for a long time — but at length the Holy Spirit convinced her of sin, and unfolded to her, her true state and condition in the sight of God. She was now glad to receive a visit from the missionary, who directed her to the cross of Christ, where she obtained pardon, found peace, and was filled with joy.

After some time, during which she proved the reality of the change which had taken place in her — she was taken ill, and was evidently near to death. The missionary visited her, and found her full of confidence and comfort. He asked her if she had no fears, "No," was her reply, "I lost all my fears when I found Jesus." And this was her experience until she died.

Reader, there is only one place where the sinner can obtain pardon and find peace — and that is at the cross of Jesus. The crucifix will not do. The virgin Mary will not do. Nor will the priests or sacraments of the Catholic church do. It must be Jesus — and Jesus alone. He can pardon, he can give you peace with God, he can save. When we find Jesus — we lose our fears. Having Christ — what shall we fear? Satan? Jesus has conquered him. Sin? Jesus has made an atonement for it, and removed it from the sight of God forever. Death? He has abolished death, so that believers never die, they only sleep in Jesus. The grave? It is now only a quiet resting place for the poor, wearied, worn-out body, where it reposes until Jesus comes again, without sin unto salvation.

The true Christian has nothing to fear — for all things work together for his good; and he will be more than a conqueror over all his enemies, through him who has loved him.

Friend, have you been to the cross and obtained pardon for your sins? Have you found Jesus and lost all your fears? If so, happy, thrice happy are you. If you have not — you may, for, "Behold, now is the accepted time. Behold, now is the day of salvation!"

Now, Lord, I would be yours alone,
And wholly live to thee;
But may I hope that you will own
A worthless worm like me?

Yes, though of sinners I'm the worst,
I cannot doubt your will;
For if you had not loved me first,
I had refused you still.