HH, Sir Godfrey Gregg D.Div
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee..” Psalm 122:6
Why was Jerusalem so dear to the godly Jew?
Because of the beauty of its situation, and the stately majesty of its buildings. Because in it he found the beating and pulsing center of the national and religious life of Israel. Because it was a place dedicated to an unworldly and spiritual life. Because it had passed through the fire and the flood of sorrow. These were some of the reasons which made the old city among the hills of Judah a place honoured and beloved.
Just so, should I not hold in high esteem the Church of Jesus Christ, the spiritual Jerusalem, for reasons close akin?
It is beautiful with the presence and the glory of God the Holy Spirit, and it is filled with the fair temples of living souls, which He is building up from day to day. It is the center from which love, hope, inspiration, and power go to the world. Take away the great Christian names from the centuries — Augustine, Anselm Luther Calvin Wesley and Whitfield — and how little is left! When the church is true to its mission, it stands distinct and separate from the fashion, feverishness and folly of society around it. And it has been baptized in tears and blood.
When I get there, to be with Christ, How will God’s dear Church on earth be upon my mind? Let me be glad that I stand within the gates of the Holy City. Let me pray for its prosperity and increase. Let me live and die for its King. I ought not only to be concerned for the welfare of my soul; I ought to be the enthusiastic lover and soldier of God’s commonwealth!
THE MYSTICAL COURT 