In times of bereavement present sorrow dims the prospect of future bliss; and when the imagination is overwrought, death, not life, is apt to seem the ultimate reality.

Tears are a tribute to our deceased friends. When the body is sown, it must be watered. But we must not sorrow as those that have no hope; for we have a good hope through grace both concerning them and concerning ourselves.

There is no better armor against the shafts of death than to be busied in God's service.