The Twenty Third of March.

A NEW COMMANDMENT . . .--- John 13:34.

"A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." --- John 13:34.>

All the commandments of God are commandments of love, tending to our real good and great happiness: far from being grevious to those who have faith and love, the practice thereof is life and peace. The world might think it is a grievious burden; but this is a great mistake indeed.

Sin is grievious. It is hatred, envy, anger, revenge, pride, there is nothing but torment and slavery; but in love there is a sweet rest and pleasure. Thus a sinner always punishes himself, and is robbed of great peace and blessing, by trangressing the commandments of God.

Saviour, look down with pitying eyes,
Our jarring wills control;
Let cordial, kind affections rise,
And harmonize the soul.

Subdue in us the carnal mind,
Its enmity destroy;
With cords of love th' old Adam bind,
And melt him into joy.

Us into closest union draw,
And in our inward parts
Let kindness sweetly write her law,
Let love command our hearts.