 We no longer hear the voice, or look on the loved
countenance, but we are fully persuaded that, as spirits, they are living
elsewhere, that separation is not destruction, and that removal does not
involve the diminution of the intelligent powers of the living mind.

But if death is thus a departure, where is the place to which the spirit
goes?  Over this point there is a veil thrown in Scripture.  If we were
to know all about it there would be nothing in the knowledge to affect
our practical conduct, so there is no knowledge given.  Nor do we require
it, for one thing is told us, and that one thing is enough.  If assured
of that one thing we want no more.  What, then, is that one thing so
clearlyis to make so vast a difference between the two
characters?  How can we explain the contrast?  It is all explained in the
latter part of that verse—“For your redemption draweth nigh.”  It is
perfectly clear that by redemption is here meant the final deliverance,
for in the previous verse {69c} we read of the final coming of the
Deliverer.  That calm peace, therefore, is the blessed result of a
blessed hope.  God’s people will know that the Deliverer is at hand, and
therefore will not be afraid.  They will believe God’s Holy Word, and
therefore what alarms others will cheer them.  The same storm which sinks
the great ironclads outside will bring their little bark into harbour.
They will know what it all means, and, with God’s Word in their