"At evening time it shall be light" (Zechariah 14: 7).
We often look forward with forebodings to the time of old age. To many saints, old age is the choicest season in their lives. A balmier air fans the mariner's cheek as he nears the shore of immortality. Fewer waves ruffle his sea, and quiet reigns deep, still, and solmen. The pilgrims have reached the Beulah land, that happy country whose days are as the days of heaven on earth. Angels visit it, celestial gales blowe over it, flowers of paradise grow in it, and the air is filled with seraphic music. Some dwell here for years, and others come to it but a few hours before their departure. But it is an Eden on earth. The setting sun seems larger than when high in the sky, and a splendor of glory tinges all the clouds which surround his going down. Ripe fruits of choice experience are gathered as the rare repast of life's evening, and the soul prepares itself for rest. The Lord's people will also enjoy light in the hour of death. Unbelief laments, the shadows fall, the night is coming, and existence is ending. No, cries faith, the night is far spent, and the true day is at hand. Light is come--the light of immortality, the light of a Father's countenance. Gather your feet into the bed, and see the waiting bands of spirits! Angels carry you away. Farewell, beloved one. Now it is light. The pearly gates are open, the golden streets shine in the jasper light. You now behold the unseen. Adieu, brother; you have light at eventide, such as we have not yet known.