To return to one's land of nativity after a long absence is one of the most pleasant experiences of human life. We are all pilgrims and strangers in this land. We have wandered from our Father's home. Let us follow the example of these two tribes, who were now united and returning to their own land.
I. Consider the first act of this liberated people. THEY ASKED THE WAY TO ZION. This was wise of them, for many try to go there without knowing the way. They did not inquire through mere curiosity, but with a determination to put their knowledge to practical use. There is not a ransomed soul around the throne to-day but who has asked this question.
II. The second act of Israel and Judah after they received their answer was to TURN THEIR FACES THITHERWARD. Their faces are Zionward now. They had been travelling in a wrong direction, and so long as this was the case it would be impossible for them to reach their destination. Satan is always trying to persuade Christians to take a slidetrack, or a side-view, and turn their backs on Zion, but so long as they keep their faces toward the city of God they are invulnerable.
III. After turning their faces toward Zion they moved on. How? "WEEPING AND REJOICING." Weeping now and rejoicing then. Here again the life of the Christian is typified. The Christian often weeps as he marches on, but will rejoice when he obtains the crown of life at the close of the day.
IV. THEY DECIDED TO BIND THEMSELVES IN AN EVERLASTING COVENANT UNTO THE LORD, having one purpose, one object, one desire in life — a perpetual covenant unto the Lord. There is no coercion in this covenant, because they said to each other, "Come, and let us join ourselves unto the Lord." The word "come" is one of the gems that shine in the Word of God. Not do or die, but "come" and live. It is like the flower that blooms in the desert, or the evening that comes after the hot and weary day.
V. SOME REASONS WHY WE SHOULD JOIN OURSELVES UNTO THE LORD IN A PERPETUAL COVENANT.
1. Because the sinner separated from the Lord misses the end of his creation.
2. Because of the everlasting relationship into which you enter.
3. Time develops strength, and the longer you put off the harder it becomes to break the chains that bind you.
4. The pleasures and benefits of a life with Christ infinitely outweigh the brief pleasures of sin.
(M. C. Cameron, B. D.)

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