munity there must be obviously restrictions to the
acquisition and use of wealth. Unbridled appropriation and
irresponsible abuse are alike a peril to society. The State has
therefore the right of interference and control in regard to all
possessions. Even on the lowest ground of expediency the very idea of
property involves on the part of all the principle of co-operation and
reciprocity--the obligation of contributing to the general weal. It
would, however, be most undesirable that the government should
undertake everything for the general good of man that is now left to
spontaneous effort and liberality. But from the standpoint of
Christian Ethics possessions of all kinds are subject to the law of
stewardship.[25] Every gift is {214} bestowed by God for the purpose
of social service. No man can call the things which he
possesses--endowments, wealth, power--his own. He is simply a trustee
of life itself. No one may be an idler or parasite, and society has a
just claim upon the activity of every man. The forms of such service
are various; but the Christian spirit will inspire a sense of 'the
ultimate unity of all pursuits that contribute to the good of man.'[26]

The ministry of love extends over the whole realm of existence, and
varies with every phase of need. Physical necessities are to be met in
the spirit of charity. St. Paul pleads repeatedly the cause of the
poor, and commends the grace of liberality. Giving is to be cheerful
and without stint. But there are needs which material aid cannot
meet--desolation, anxiety, grief--to which the loving heart alone can
find ways of ministering. And beyond all physical and moral need is
the need of the soul; and it lies as a debt upon those who themselves
have experienced the grace of Christ to seek the renewal and spiritual
enrichment of their brethren.

(_c_) There is one special form of practical kindness towards others
which a follower of Christ will often be called upon to exercise--the
spirit of _forbearance and forgiveness_. The Christian is to speak
evil of no man, but to be gentle, showing all meekness unto all men;
living peaceably with all men, avoiding everything provocative of
strife; even 'forbearing one another and forgiving one another, if any
have a quarrel against any; even as Christ forgave you so also do ye.'

(3) Finally, we may serve others by _Example_, by letting the light of
life so shine before men that they seeing our good works