1 ------- 1,000

My pastor read this most interesting poem, entitled, "The Thousandth Man", by Rudyard Kipling in his message a few weeks ago.  It is based upon some very sad words from "The Preacher" in Ecclesiastes 7:28:  "one man among a thousand have I found."  I trust that you will take time to read it thoughtfully, contemplate upon it, and humbly ask the Lord to help you be "the Thousandth Man."

     "One man in a thousand, Solomon says, will stick more close than a brother.
And it's worth while seeking him half your days if you find him before the other.
      Nine hundred and ninety-nine depend on what the world sees in you,
But the Thousandth Man will stand your friend with the whole round world agin you.

      'Tis neither promise, nor prayer, nor show, will settle the finding for 'ee.
Nine hundred and ninety-nine of 'em go by your looks, or your acts, or your glory,
      But if he finds you and you find him--the rest of the world don't matter;
For the Thousandth Man will sink or swim with you in any water.

      You can use his purse with no more talk than he uses yours for his spendings,
And laugh and meet in your daily walk as though there had been no lendings.
      Nine hundred and ninety-nine of 'em call for silver and gold in their dealings;
But the Thousandth Man----he's worth 'em all, because you can show him your feelings.

      His wrong's your wrong, and his right's your right -- in season or out of season.
Stand up and back it in all men's sight---with that for your only reason!
      Nine hundred and ninety-nine can't bide the shame or mocking or laughter,
But the Thousandth Man will stand by your side to the gallows--foot --- and after!"

This poem stirred my heart, and I thought how, in these perilous times, we need men -- mighty men of valour -- men of courage who are willing to stand alone, if need be, for the cause of holiness and righteousness in these days of great compromise!

     "Heavenly Father, I pray for my own boys -- my grandsons -- Help them to determine anew today to be 'The Thousandth Man' that You can own for your glory and the upbuilding of your kingdom."
In Jesus' name, Amen.