Water to the natural man, is a very important resource. We drink it, wash, fish and swim in it, and cook with it. We depend upon water daily, but God has an even greater form of water, and that is Living water, especially for the church. The Holy Spirit dwells continually in Christ's church as a fountain of living waters. He gives to all her members life and sanctification, and comfort, and victory over the world; and from one generation to another he raises up for her a spiritual seed from among those who were by nature "dead in trespasses and sins." In our first reading (Ezekiel 47:1-12), Ezekiel through a vision, was taken by the spirit around the outside of the house. On each side of the house, water was flowing from within to the outside. These waters signify the gospel of Christ, which went forth from Jerusalem, and spread into the countries about; also the gifts and powers of the Holy Ghost which accompanied it, by virtue of which is spread far, and produced blessed effects. Christ is the Temple; and he is the Door; from him, the living waters flow out of his pierced side. They are increasing waters. Observe the progress of the gospel in the world, and the process of the work of grace in the heart; attend the motions of the blessed Spirit under Divine guidance. If we search into the things of God, we find some things plain and easy to be understood, as the waters that were but to the ankles; others more difficult, which require a deeper search, as the waters to the knees, or the loins; and some quite beyond our reach, which we cannot penetrate but must, as St. Paul did, adore the depth. In Psams 46:1-11, we are encouraged to hope and trust in God; in his power and providence, and his gracious presence with his church in the worst of times. We may apply it to spiritual enemies, and the encouragement we have that, through Christ, we shall be conquerors over them. He is a Help, a present Help, a Help found, one whom we have found to be so; a Help at hand, one that is always near; we cannot desire a better, nor shall we ever find the like in any creature. Let those be troubled at the troubling of the waters, who build their confidence on a floating foundation; but let not those be alarmed who are led to the Rock, and there find firm footing. Here is joy to the church, even in sorrowful times. The river alludes to the graces and consolations of the Holy Spirit, which flow through every part of the church, and through God's sacred ordinances, gladdening the heart of every believer. In John 5:1-16, We are all by nature impotent folk in spiritual things, blind, halt, and withered; but full provision is made for our cure, if we attend to it. An angel went down, and troubled the water; and what disease soever it was, this water cured it, but only he that first stepped in had benefit. This teaches us to be careful, that we let not a season slip which may never return. God loves each one of us, and is constantly making provisions for us, especially for the church. It is comforting to know that we are covered by the Spirit of God throughout the world. That covers us all. We are assured that he will keep us through all of our trials. We also know that no matter how broken and scattered that our lives may become, God is able to make us whole again. |