Drawing Out The Word

25. God's Altar Call

Scripture:

Genesis 3:8-10, 21; Matthew 11:28-30

Hymn:

"Jesus Is Tenderly Calling"

Meditation: The "Invitation Hymn" has been a very meaningful and serious part of our spiritual lives over the years. The old-fashioned church altar has received many a sinner and wearied saint to the refrains of "Just As I Am," "I Am Thine, O Lord," "Nearer, My God, to Thee," and "Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling." But, it wasn't the preacher who called the weary to rest or hastened the lost to come home . It has always been the Holy Spirit of God calling to the hearts of men, women, boys and girls to leave their heavy burden of sin at the cross. Let us consider now a few of God's "Invitation Calls" recorded in His Holy Book. We find the Spirit of God walking in the Garden of Eden, tenderly calling for Adam and Eve to come out of hiding from the shame of their sin. Blood was shed that they may have the skins of animals to cover their naked bodies. God has always been willing to atone for the sins of mankind and restore fellowship. Thus He set in action a plan to permanently redeem all those willing to come to him by simply faith.  …to the Word of God for Blessing (Isaiah 55)  …to the Cross for Release from Sin (John 3:16)  …to the Throne of God in Prayer (Matthew 7) Come, ye sinners, poor and needy…  Invitation to the Altar of Sacrifice (Genesis 3:8-10,21; Hebrews 9:22; Isaiah 1:18)

Come, ye weary, heavy laden… In the arms of my dear Savior, Oh, there are ten thousand charms.