The Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 

Revelation 22:21 

As we come to the end of the year, so also we come to the end of this little work. It is of the utmost importance that, as we have begun, so also we finish. It has been the purpose of this work, from its’ beginning, right away through to the end, to magnify and glorify, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He is the Grand Subject of the Church. He is the Object of all our affection. He is our Theme; our Song; and our Joy. As we part, at this close of the year, we would leave with you, a benediction which will, once again, point you to Christ:  ‘The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.’ It was the Grace of Christ that brought salvation unto us, and us unto salvation. It is the Grace of Christ which has upheld us through every hardship. He has graciously showed us Himself in the means of grace. He has graciously provided for us ‘life and breath, and all things.’ He has done, ‘exceeding abundantly, above all that we ask or think.’ He has not come even close to finishing what He has started, for ‘we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.’ Everything occurring now, and all that will occur in the incoming years, will be ordered and arranged for our good, and for His Glory. With these things in view we leave you with this benediction, ‘The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.’ May God Make it so in every life. 

Our Gracious Savior, Great Shepherd of the sheep, 
You have safely led us thus far,  
for which we praise Your Holy Name, 
and offer abundant thanks. 
So by Your power, crown this year with grace,  
and give us hope for all our future days until our faith becomes sight.