other world either to disturb its inhabitants or profane its life, because self-love turns him instinctively away. He is happier elsewhere. It is, from a heavenly point of view, a wretched kind of happiness; nevertheless it is his, and the merciful Lord would keep all as happy as He can. So the flame of the sword which turns itself, is made to keep the way of the tree of life. So Providence protects man's Eden everywhere, and the very best is done for all.
Such is the lesson of the text. It teaches a doctrine that justifies the ways of God with man. He is infinite mercy and love in all his appointments and doings. He is tender with the meanest human being that forfeits the sublime destiny for which he was created. He is always with us all. He goes with us everywhere. He sympathizes with every noble aspiration and heroic struggle. He tries to turn our errors into wise and useful lessons. If we sink into self, He follows us with healing balms for every wound. If we sink beyond recall. He softens even the saddest fall. If we rise toward heaven. He bears us up with tender hands. If we throw ourselves into his loving arms, He will hold us there forever. The cherubim spread their broad protecting wings over all, and even the flame of the turning sword has its lesson of love.
