Morning and Evening

September 26, Evening

C. H. Spurgeon · Modern retelling

"Howl, fir tree, for the cedar is fallen." — Zechariah 11:2 · KJV

When the crash of a falling oak is heard in the forest, it is a sign the woodman is abroad, and every tree in the whole company may tremble lest tomorrow the sharp edge of the axe find it out. We are all like trees marked for the axe, and the fall of one should remind us that for every one — whether great as the cedar or humble as the fir — the appointed hour is stealing on apace. I trust that, by often hearing of death, we do not grow callous to it. May we never be like the birds in the steeple, that build their nests while the bells are tolling, and sleep quietly when the solemn funeral peals are startling the air. May we regard death as the weightiest of all events, and be sobered by its approach. It ill befits us to sport while our eternal destiny hangs on a thread. The sword is out of its scabbard — let us not trifle; it is polished and its edge is sharp — let us not play with it. He who does not prepare for death is more than an ordinary fool; he is a madman. When the voice of God is heard among the trees of the garden, let fig tree and sycamore, elm and cedar alike hear the sound. Be ready, servant of Christ, for your Master comes suddenly, when an ungodly world least expects Him. See to it that you are faithful in His work, for the grave will soon be dug for you. Be ready, parents; see that your children are brought up in the fear of God, for they must soon be orphans. Be ready, men of business; take care that your affairs are in order, and that you serve God with all your heart, for the days of your earthly service will soon be ended, and you will be called to give account for the deeds done in the body, whether good or evil. May we all prepare for the tribunal of the great King with a care that shall be rewarded with the gracious commendation, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

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