This leads us to remark finally, that, in the dedication of our children to
the Lord, we should have reference to the highest function within the
calling of man, viz: the christian ministry; or in other words, we should
offer our sons to God with the hope and prayer that He may call them to the
work of the ministry, and every indication of His answer to our prayer,
given in their mental and moral fitness, should encourage the parent to
train them up with special reference to that sacred office.
This, the state of the church and the many destitute and waste places of
the earth, imperiously demand. Like the Hebrew mother, we should at least
devote one of our sons to the Temple-service, direct his attention to it,
favor it by all our intercourse with him, and use all proper means for his
preparation for it. And you may be assured that God will answer your
prayer. Your offering, if holy, will be acceptable.
"Even thus, of old, a babe was offered up--
Young Samuel, for the service of His Temple;
Nor He refused the boon, but poured on him
The anointing of all gifts and graces meet
For his high office."
But alas! how many parents refuse thus to yield their sons unto God! They
will formally and outwardly dedicate their children to Him in holy baptism;
but afterwards obstruct their way to the ministry, yea, even discourage it
for reasons the most worldly and infidel.
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