The Burning-Glass

“When the beams of the sun are co7itracted by a burning-glass, ttpon one spot, theji they cause fire; so when our thoughts are concentrated on 07ie object they warm the heart and at last burn the truth into itP This is the reason why so many sermons and addresses are so cold and ineffective, they are not sufficiently focussed upon one point. There are many rays of light, but they are scattered. We get a little upon many things, while what is wanted is one great truth, and so much upon it as shall fix it on the heart, and set the soul blazing with it. This is the fault of many lives: they are squandered upon a dozen objects, whereas if they were economized for one, they would be mighty lives, known in the present and honoured in the future.” This one thing I do ‘’ is a necessary motto if we are to accomplish anything.

Our friend lay basking in the sunshine and the beams of the sun did not disturb him for a moment. In a mirthful moment we crept to his side, and holding up a burning glass, we formed a little bright spot on the back of his hand. He started in an instant as if touched with a hot iron, and was some little time before he quite appreciated our lecture upon concentrated energies. He did not invite a repetition of the interesting experiment, but confessed that he should throughout life dread a man whose strength all converged to one point, and that when next he wished to arouse a careless mind, he would try what concentration would do.

Great Lord, teach thou me how to accomplish somewhat for thy glory; and, to that end, enable me to live for thee with my undivided being, that what little light and heat I have may be so focussed that I may burn my way to successful service.