The Cross
The chief idea conveyed by this illustration is that the Christian reaches heaven by the way of the cross. The word Christ stands out very prominently on this ladder, indicating that Christ is the source of its strength; while above it we have a glimpse of the sun, showing that it leads to a fair and sunny land. On the rounds of this ladder we see the words of Peter written in his 2d Epistle, 1st chapter, 5th and 6th verses. The order, however, seems to be reversed. Peter says: "Add to your faith, virtue," etc., and the most natural thought would be that "faith" should be at the lower round, and all the other virtues above it; and then ascending the ladder, we might "add" all other essential graces. But we see the wisdom of this order when we remember that the grandest exhibitions of charity are found in the lower realm of human life. He who is at the top of the ladder needs no charity for the angels nor the saints in light, but he does need it for those who are below him. Exercise charity. Let faith lift you up to Christ, and then you will have His spirit, and you will be true to yourselves and true to others.