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GOD our Saviour! who art the confidence of all thy creation, we beseech Thee to bless us this evening in our humble approaches to Thee, and to sanctify our souls and bodies to thy service. We desire, O Lord Jesus, to be drawn nearer and nearer to Thee, who art the Fountain of Life, of immortality, and blessing. Thou hast graciously promised that to those who delight themselves in Thee, thou wilt give the desires of their hearts.

May we realize in ourselves the fulfilment of this thy gracious promise, for the desire of our souls is to thy name, and to the remembrance of thy goodness for ever. Shepherd of Israel! we beseech Thee to cheer, by thy Divine presence, those who are afflicted either in body or mind; brighten up in their souls, as present things recede from their view, the prospects of the future; and give them to feel that those who put their trust in Thee are safe, even amidst the storms and perils of Temptation's night. God of mercy! impress upon our minds this consoling truth, that bodily dissolution is but a continuation of life in that world of realities to which Thou hast graciously called us; and that death, to the man whose steps have been ordered by Thee, whether it be sudden or protracted, is but as the sweet voice of an ange] whispering softly in the ear—"The Master is come, and calleth for thee!" Give us to feel, as well as believe that, where Thou art, death can have no terrors, and without Thee, life has no charms. In thy presence alone there is fulness of joy, and at thy right hand