No period of the rolling year, perhaps, is received with more cordial feelings of joy than the one on which we have now entered. To the admirer of the works of nature--its smiling face--its verdant mantle--the exchange of the chilly blast of winter for etherial mildness and softer gales, cannot but afford pleasure and delight; for "lo, winter is past; the rain is over and gone; and the time of the singing of birds is come."
To those that love to contemplate God, not only in the works of nature, but also in those of grace, the approach of this month cannot but be hailed with feelings of joy, on account of those delightful opportunities which are then afforded of hearing our missionary brethren, who have come from the east and the west to rehearse all that the Lord has done for them, and how he has opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles (heathen).
It is, however, to be feared that, with many, the pleasure that is felt in attending these public meetings arises from the mere excitement of passion, not based upon or guided by any fixed principle; and therefore, like the morning cloud and early dew, soon passes away. If it be asked, What is the true spirit which every Christian should possess in reference to the publication of the truth? it may be replied, _A missionary spirit_; which includes,
1. _A spirit of importunate prayer._ What single employment is there in which we may be engaged, or what enterprise can we undertake, that does not depend upon our Maker for success? The merchant may freight his bark for a distant shore; but for its safe arrival into port, he must look to Him who holds the waters in the hollow of his hand, and whom the winds and sea obey. The husbandman may prepare the soil, and implant the seed but from God alone can he expect the gentle showers of rain, and the congenial sunshine. And if the blessing of God is absolutely necessary for the success of undertakings relating to temporal affairs, how much more so in things that are spiritual! Here, especially, Paul may plant, and Apollos water; but it is God alone that can give the increase. And in what way are we to seek it but by prayer? It is prayer that will open the windows of heaven, and cause the Almighty to pour us out a blessing, so that there shall not be room to receive it. It will come down like rain on the new-mown grass--as showers that water the earth.