HAVING been informed that thou wast in the country for the benefit of thy health, I drop these few lines to inquire after that invaluable blessing. The true causes of all real sickness, according to the service of the established church, are sins of commission and omission, "We have done those things which we ought not to have done, and we have left undone those things which we ought to have done, and there is no health in us." But God's way of healing is but little known, and those methods of healing which men have devised are little worth.
David's prayer to God, is, that he would made known the way that he has devised of healing sick sinners; "That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations." This prayer was answered, this request was granted when the following orders were given, namely, "That repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." In the gospel, Mary, the ancient prophecy is fulfilled, "I will bring it health and cure, and I will cure them; and reveal unto them the abundance of peace and truth." This abundance of peace and truth in bringing health and cure, is taken from the name of the Lord proclaimed before Moses, "Abundant in goodness and truth, pardoning iniquity, transgression, and sin." Wherever pardon is proclaimed, there she name of the Lord is declared, as Christ says, " Father, I have declared thy name unto the men which thou has given me, and I will declare it," again and again. Wherever pardon is obtained, there the truth of God's promise is verified.
Our health lies in the atoning blood of Christ; "The blood of Christ cleanseth us from all sin:" and where this is applied by the Holy Spirit, there sickness is removed and health restored. This, Mary, is the glory of mount Zion, and of all the citizens of that mystic city, as it is written; "And the inhabitants shall no more say I am sick, for the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their iniquity;" and this health and cure is to be attended with the abundance of peace. This our great Physician always proclaimed to every one of his patients where the balm of Gilead was internally applied; "Son, Daughter, be of good cheer, thy sins are forgiven thee, Go in peace." Thus he brings health and cure, and cures us, and reveals to us the abundance of peace and truth. Peace with God, peace with conscience, peace with one another, and peace within Zion's walls, and prosperity within her palaces. In this city, and in the enjoyment of this blessing I conclude, with Peace be unto thee.
Ever thine in Christ,
W. H. S. S.
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