We are all enjoying the beautiful summer time, which for most of us includes vacation time, and,
in general, more outdoor living. Let us think of it also as a most favorable time for spreading the
Gospel. Let us covet the blessing assured to those "that sow beside all waters" (Isa. 32:20).

The sense of the great mercies and compassion of God to us finds its answer in, among other
ways, doing "the work of an evangelist." One most worthwhile means of doing this, which,
because it does not require the ability to speak, can be done any time and in any place, is the
prayerful use of gospel tracts.

It does not seem to be done as much by believers as it used to be, partly perhaps because the Devil
has enlisted tract work in his own cause, bringing it into a measure of disrepute on that account;
and also because, more than ever, the general attitude of one’s relationship with God and the Lord
Jesus is considered to be on a "hands off" basis. "I have my religion, and you have yours," is a
common retort when being given a tract; "don’t force yours on me." Then too, there is not as
much encouragement perhaps in this work through the fellowship of others as there once was. Yet
many can testify to the blessing and help received by the reading of a tract. Just a short time ago,
a friend related to the writer the instance of a man being brought under conviction and led to
accept Christ as Saviour through the reading of a tract which our friend gave him when passing
by. Let us not lose sight of the great and marvelous truth that God, in His» longsuffering, "not
willing that any should perish," is yet working (John 5:17; 16:7-11) by His Holy Spirit in men’s
hearts. A tract read may just meet the present exercised state and condition of someone, clear up
a difficulty, and bring that one to decision. We know that God is working today, in grace and
mercy; we may not know where. Hence, our service is a "work of faith," no less than a "labor
of love," and is sustained by "hope."

So let us be stirred afresh to our privileges in this line, not forgetting that there is "wrath to
come," from which Christ has mercifully delivered us; and that "time is short," as the apostle
pressed on the Corinthian saints.

"He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with
rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him" (Psa. 126:6).