CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOUR

Mt Benger Mail, 19 October 1938, Page 3

CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOUR

The C.E. meeting on October 11 was attended by twenty-one young people, and two newcomers were welcomed. The chair was occupied by Mr George Strachan. At the commencement of the meeting, the hymns: ‘‘What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” and “Shall We Gather at the River,” were sung. The opening prayer was offered by Miss Rhoda Strachan. Members were happy to receive remembrances from Misses Bessie, Audrey and Lois Bennetts, who broke their connection with the Coal Creek C.E. society when they left the district just a year ago. The Bible reading for the evening was taken from John 4:46-54, and was read by Mr Eric Stevenson.

Miss Leece presented a most interesting and helpful papei* based on “John’s Portrait of Jesus: — The Friend,” A true friend is one who knows all about us, and loves us just the same.”—Jesus has proved Himself to be the truest of all friends. He knew of all the vileness here on earth; and yet He counted the salvation of the soul of even the worst sinner worth the cost of His own life. And so, on Calvery He paid the price of sin—sin of which He • Himself was guiltless. That friendship which was shown for friend and enemy alike is the same to-day. We can enjoy the friendship of Jesus by placing absolute trust in Him; by constant prayer; and by reading His word. ‘ ‘ Whgp Jesus was crucified the disciples believed that the old ties were forever broken. But after the Resurrection and Pentecost they discovered that Christ lives in the hearts of believers. His holy spirit restored that friendship, and freed it of all limitations of place, time and physical barriers. The living Christ became a still greater and more readily accessible friend to them,” said the study book. When our wills are His, then are we Christ’s friends.

After chain prayer, Mr Bert Bloxham rendered the solo “Lead, Kindly Light.” Rev. Mr Jordan pronounced the Benediction after the singing of the final hymn.

[“Wouldst have a friend? — wouldst know what friend is best? Have God thy Friend: He passeth all the rest!”'—J. W. E. Lay.