Letters: Isabella, His Daughter (1)
The sermon emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty, even in the midst of life's interruptions, and finding peace in Christ as the Burden-bearer.
Andrew Bonar writes a heartfelt letter to his daughter Isabella, reflecting on the nature of life and the inevitability of interruptions, particularly in the context of Communion preparations. He contemplates the mystery of God's providence, especially in light of Dr. Livingstone's unexpected death, emphasizing that God is in control of every event, no matter how trivial it may seem. Bonar also addresses the burdens of anxiety, reminding Isabella that Christ is both the Sin-bearer and the Burden-bearer, providing peace amidst life's trials. He concludes by sharing insights from his Ladies Class on the topic of peace, highlighting how God grants it to His people.
Text
Tuesday, 2nd April 1867. MY DEAR ISABELLA,--. . . This is a week of many interruptions of course, people calling about the Communion, etc. . . . No news here. The stream of life glides on, and we are on its banks. It will take many turns and windings, and then, some day, what a view bursts upon us! Eternity! Dr. Livingstone's death seems to us strange--so like a mere accident--to die in such a way! But this is often God's way of ordering and bringing about great events, while He Himself is there, so that not a hair of the head falls to the ground without Him. I hope little N. is better. Poor Miss M. and her sister must be suffering much anxiety.
Few things are so trying as anxiety from day to day, and that is the reason why Christ the Sin-bearer is also the Burden-bearer.
He is thus a full Saviour. I finished this afternoon my Ladies Class for the season. Our subject was 'Peace,' and all said about it, and about the way God gives it. . . . Good-bye. --Your affectionate father, ANDREW A. BONAR.
Sermon Outline
- The Stream of Life
- The Death of Dr. Livingstone
- Christ as Burden-bearer
- The Problem of Anxiety
- Christ's Solution to Anxiety
- Christ as a Full Saviour
Key Quotes
“It will take many turns and windings, and then, some day, what a view bursts upon us! Eternity!” — Andrew Bonar
“Few things are so trying as anxiety from day to day, and that is the reason why Christ the Sin-bearer is also the Burden-bearer.” — Andrew Bonar
Application Points
- We can trust God in the midst of life's interruptions by remembering His sovereignty and control.
- Christ is not only the Sin-bearer but also the Burden-bearer, and we can find peace in Him.
- We should turn to Christ in times of anxiety, knowing that He is a Full Saviour who bears our burdens.