ABERDEEN, _March 11, 1637_.
CXXVII.--_To_ JOHN CARSEN.
[John Carsen was the son of Andrew Carsen, merchant and burgess
of Kirkcudbright. He was retoured heir of his father 13th May
1635.--"Inquir. Gener." _No._ 2121. There are still several of
the name in Kirkcudbright, and it is found often in the
churchyard. There is "Bailie John Carsen" in the "Minute-book of
Comm. of Covenanters," along with Bailie Ewart; and is called
"Carsen of _Senwick_."]
(_NOTHING WORTH THE FINDING, BUT CHRIST._)
MY WELL-BELOVED AND DEAR FRIEND,--Every one seeketh not God, and far
fewer find Him; because they seek amiss. He is to be sought for above
all things, if men would find what they seek. Let feathers and shadows
alone to children, and go seek your Well-beloved. Your only errand to
the world, is to woo Christ; therefore, put other lovers from about
the house, and let Christ have all your love, without minching or
dividing it. It is little enough, if there were more of it. The
serving of the world and sin hath but a base reward and smoke instead
of pleasures, and but a night-dream for true ease to the soul. Go
where you will, your soul shall not sleep sound but in Christ's bosom.
Come in to Him, and lie down, and rest you on the slain Son of God,
and inquire for Him. I sought Him; and now, a fig for all the
worm-eaten pleasures, and moth-eaten glory out of heaven, since I have
found Him, and in Him all I can want or wish! He hath made me a king
over the world. Princes cannot overcome me. Christ hath given me the
marriage kiss, and He hath my marriage-love: we have made up a full
bargain, that shall not go back on either side. Oh, if ye, and all in
that country, knew what sweet terms of mercy are betwixt Him and me!
Grace be with you.
Yours, in his sweet Lord Jesus,