SERM. XXXIX. THE RIGHT IMPROVEMENT OF LIFE. 153 might be followers of him as he was.of Christ," 1 Cor. xi. I. And I may add in the Fourth place, Where . a christian of shining virtues and of diffusive goodness, is blessed with a long life, the memory of his example, and the sweet savour of his graces, remain the longer on earth, after his own de- parture to heaven. It is like a rich perfume that has lain some considerable time among garments, it communi- cates a pleasant fragrancy to the apparel long after the perfume itself is removed. Thus many a samt, by the Sweet odour of his name, has done honour to the gospel in the place where he lived, while his bones are moulder- ing in the dust : The history of his various virtues has dwelt long on the lips of the surviving neighbours, and, perhaps, bath awakened others to an imitation of such a pattern many years after his decease. Whether example be of any use in heaven, or whether the saints of lower rank there may be excited to holy imitation, by the superior graces or glories of more emi- nent saints, is not so well known to us ; but this we may be well assured of; that the example of christians can have no use in that happy world, to guard the doctrine of Christ from profane reproaches, or to convince or convert sinners and infidels. It is the living, and the living alone, that can do this service for Christ, and glo- rifyhis gospel in such instances as these. But I proc d to another advantage ofour continuance in .this world. IV. Life is yours ; for it gives opportunity for abound- ing in good works to the great benefit of mankind. The longer a saint lives, if he maintains his character with honour, he becomes so much a greater blessing to the world. But what a deal ofgood ceases with the life of a good man. Christians, ye are required to maintain good works for the honour of your Father, and for the glory of your Saviour, who hath purchased you to be a peculiar peo- ple, zealous of good works: But there is another reason for them too, and that is, " these things are good and profitable to men,"( Titus ii. 14. compared with the third chapter, verse 8.\,1 Every day of life opens some new scenes, wherein you may be serviceable 'to your neigh-
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