29/01/2012
Yesterday, I read an article that inspired me much. In 1775, a young preacher named Augustus M. Toplady, was caught in a sudden storm, which forced him to take shelter in a cleft of a huge rock. As he waited for the storm to pass, he thought about how God had been a shelter for him in his life's storms. He found a playing card on the floor of his newly found shelter and wrote the words of the wonderful hymn, “Rock of Ages.” A hymn which has been a source of comfort to countless souls.
The ending stanza says....While I draw this fleeting breath, when mine eyes shall close in death, when I soar to worlds unknown, see thee on thy judgment throne, Rock of Ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in thee.
Toplady died in 1778. Would he ever have imagined that a couple of centuries later, his hymn would still be sung in homes, churches and conferences. What an awesome blessing; something that no material gift can match.
Our testimony (written, spoken or sung) of the goodness of God is significant; it can do many things....refresh a weary soul, draw someone lost to the Saviour, encourage a depressed believer, challenge a Christian soldier and so much more.
If you ask Christians who Augustus M. Toplady is, not many will tell you. But to the question whether they have sung or heard "Rock of Ages" many will nod affirmatively.
Our testimony will probably outlive us, if the Saviour's return is delayed, and it will be a blessing to many; so let us do the Saviour's bidding while we can.....Remember the Master's words.....
As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. (John 9:4)
