212 THE CHRISTIAN NATURALIST. 



In each of these studies, for which the human soul is so 

 admirably fitted by its restless desire to look into all 

 mysteries, there is yet much to be learnt, and much 

 indeed that we can only hope to learn in eternity. As 

 yet we see many things in the kingdom of nature as well 

 as of grace, ** through a glass darkly." Here we only 

 now enjoy the limited privilege of Adam after the 

 fall. To hold visible communion with the * Divine 

 Presence' is denied us, as it was to him after that event. 

 In a world like that we live in to ' seek his bright ap- 

 pearances,* and to trace his footsteps, as they were at first 

 perceived by our great Parent would be folly. Never- 

 theless, we have still the privilege, if we understand 

 how to use it, of catching a glimpse of the Deity in 

 his works and in his word. We may even now 



* Gladly behold, though but his utmost skirts 

 Of glory; and far off his steps adore.' 



But a higher vision awaits us. And assuredly there 

 is nothing to which the renewed mind looks forward 

 with purer emotion, than to the anticipation of that day 

 when in God's light it shall see light; and when as it 

 respects all natural as well as spiritual difficulties, the 

 thick film that overshadows and darkens our meatal 

 vision shall be purged away. And if in the midst of 



