The Sixty-Ninth Sacrament, December 6, 1735

This was the last sacrament day in which my dear friend and brother, Mr. Isaac Wilkinson, of whom the world is not worthy, continued with me, under the relation of an assistant. He preached in the morning, from these words, “We rejoice in Christ Jesus.” Phil. iii. 3. And I preached in the afternoon, of “God being glorified by Christ.”

I introduced the ordinance of the Lord’s supper with some reflections on those words in John, “Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am.” John xvii. 24. I observed the language by which Christians are described, as those whom the Father hath given him; thereby, probably, referring to the covenant of election. How happy a thought is it, if we are interested therein! Christ prays, that they may be with him where he is. To be with Christ in any circumstances must appear delightful; how much more so in heaven! The apostle’s faith was so strong, that he considered himself as already there, and overlooked all the distance, all the darkness, and all the suffering that interposed. Amiable example for our faith to follow, wherein the apostle assists us, when he speaks of us as raised up together with him, and set in heavenly places, that we may behold the glory of Christ. It was not merely out of ostentation, but as he knew the happiness that it would carry along with it, to see the Holy One in our own nature; our great Benefactor, and our Almighty Guardian; on account of which we should look upon it as the pledge and security of our own glory. With regard to this he speaks in the most positive terms,’ and yet very consistently with the most perfect submission: “Father, tcill, that those whom thou hast given me be with me where I am:” I do not only pray for it, but I claim it; I humbly enter my demand on this head. Blessed souls, to whom this promise is sealed! Gracious Saviour, that offered such a petition!

In breaking the bread, I observed, — Christ instituted this ordinance that we might remember him. I hope that we know the pleasure of remembering him, and how our remembrance of him has been assisted at it; how our faith has been thus helped, and all our other graces proportionably strengthened.

I particularly insisted, in drinking from the cup, on our putting ourselves and all our concerns into the hands of Christ. Our covenant engagement is to serve Christ; our covenant hope is to enjoy him; but whether it be in this world, or in another, is a matter not worth contesting between such lovers and such friends.