Here are three greatest things.
I. THE GREATEST THING IN MAN. The "heart." It is the heart that marks character (Proverbs 23:7); that settles worth (1 Samuel 16:7); that determines destiny (Romans 10:9, Romans 10:10; Proverbs 4:23). Even among men, the man who has "no heart," whatever else he may have, is despised; whereas he who has a kind heart, though he may have many failings, is beloved (cf. Nabal and David).
II. THE GREATEST WORK FOR MAN. "Seek God." This implies that, though man is separated from God through sin, there is a possibility of return. God has drawn near to us, and we may draw near to God. Christ is the true Mercy seat. In him God and man meet and are reconciled. The chief object of life is to seek God (Psalms 27:8; Isaiah 55:6). In his works and in his Word, in the Person of his Son and in doing his will by the Spirit, he is evermore to be found of those who truly seek him (Isaiah 45:19; Amos 5:8).
III. THE GREATEST BLESSEDNESS FOR MAN. "Live." Life is the greatest boon—but only when it is the life of the heart.
"We live by admiration, faith, and hope,
And ever as these are well and wisely fixed,
In dignity of being we ascend."
(Wordsworth.)
It is in Christ that we find our true life and our highest blessedness (cf. Demas and Paul, 2 Timothy 4:10; 2 Corinthians 6:11; 1 John 3:1).—W.F.
HOMILIES BY C. SHORT