... We sometimes strain at _words_ when in reality we agree with
others. If we would only remember to strive to discover wherein we
agree, and not always be looking for divergence of opinion, there
would be more of practical piety in the world. Let us open our eyes
to the fact that _all_ denominations endeavor to make men better,
though they differ in methods; and see to it that we ourselves are
true to the highest and best as far as we know it, and the kingdom
of God will be hastened in everywhere. Do right for its own sake,
and not from fear or hope of punishment or reward. Let me give you
a hymn we sang after the sermon last Sunday. The subject was, "This
life: why we are in it, and what we have a right to expect of it."
The hymn is one of Rev. Samuel Longfellow's, "Life's Mission:"--
"Go forth to life, O child of earth!
Still mindful of thy heavenly birth."
[The whole hymn is copied] ... Methinks if one lives up to such a
mission he will be none the less Christian than if he can accept
the dogmas of churches.
He had consulted her about the propriety of his contributing to the
support of the Methodist church when he no longer accepted its
doctrines. She wrote in reply, Oct. 6, 1884:--
... "There are two precepts which come to my mind when I am
perplexed as to what to do, which I will mention: 'What doth the
Lord require of thee, but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk
humbly with thy God?' (Micah vi. 8). The other: 'If ye have not the
spirit of Christ, ye are none of his,'-- from the epistles, but
can't recall it just now. If you conclude to contribute to the
Methodist church, you could tell Mr. B---- what your intention had
been, and how I reasoned upon the subject. However, act just as you
come to the conclusion. The thing is to do as you believe to be
just. I should think the church I attended had the first claim upon
me. 'Duty before pleasure' is true in any church. Am glad you think
so well of Unitarianism, and hope you may be able to work heartily
with us some day. Only be patient."
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