To Mr. James Hamilton — Letter 71

Reverend and dear brother.

Peace be to you from God our Father and from our Lord Jesus. I am laid low when I remember what I am, and that my outward appearance casts such a luster when I find so little within. It is a wonder that Christ's glory is not defiled in running through such an unclean and impure channel. But I see Christ will be Christ in the dregs and refuse of men; his art, his shining wisdom, his beauty speaks loudest in blackness, weakness, deadness — yes, in nothing. I see that nothing, no money, no worth, no good, no life, no deserving is the ground that omnipotence delights to draw glory out of. Oh, how sweet is the inner side of the walls of Christ's house, and a room beside himself! My distance from him makes me sad. Oh that we were in each other's arms! Oh that the middle things between us were removed! I find it a difficult matter to keep in step with Christ at all times; when he laughs I scarcely believe it, I would so eagerly have it true. But I am like a low man looking up to a high mountain, whom weariness and faintness overcomes. I would climb up, but I find that I do not advance in my journey as I would wish. Yet I trust he shall take me home against nightfall. I marvel not that Antichrist in his slaves is so busy, but our crowned King sees and beholds, and will arise for Zion's safety. I am exceedingly distracted with letters and company that visit me; what I can do, or time will permit, I shall not omit. Excuse my brevity, for I am pressed. Remember the Lord's prisoner; I desire to be mindful of you. Grace, grace be with you.

Aberdeen, September 7, 1637. Yours in his sweet Lord Jesus, S. R.