Leviticus 10:12 - Homilies By W. Clarkson

That which is left to us.

"His sons that were left." Happily and mercifully, it is not often that we suffer such a breach in our life or in our home as that which Aaron was called upon this day to endure; but inroads arc made, suddenly or gradually, upon our sources of joy. Accident (as we call it), disease, treachery, misfortune, the band of time,—these take away our treasures; they strip the goodly tree of its branches, as well as of its leaves. But "though much is taken, much abides." The good man has always consolation in that which is left to him. There is left to us—

I. SOME HUMAN AFFECTION . If not "sons that are left," or daughters, yet friends whose attachment has grown with the growing years.

II. SOME HUMAN ESTEEM . There are those—it may be many, at any rate a few—who hold us in genuine regard; who honour us, and pour on our wounded spirit the precious ointment of their esteem.

III. Solacing memories of faithful work.

IV. The consciousness of our own integrity ( Psalms 41:12 ).

V. The abiding favour and friendship of the Lord ( Psalms 125:2 ).

VI. The hope of eternal life in the presence of God ( 2 Timothy 4:6 ).—C.