ing in numbers. Every society there grows by the constant addition of new members; and every additional member being a new form of good and truth, adds something to the perfection of the society, just as every new instrument added to a band of music, exalts and improves the general harmony. In this way also every society, and consequently the whole heaven of angels, must be ever advancing toward a more and more perfect state—ever increasing in variety, wisdom, and consequent happiness.
Can there be any doubt, then, about the truth of Swedenborg's disclosure on this subject? Nothing less than everlasting progress would suit the nature or satisfy the wants of the human soul. Reason, analogy and holy Scripture alike bear testimony to its truth. No one in heaven remains stationary, or quite satisfied with his present attainments,—an inspiring and ennobling thought! There all are forever receiving fresh increments of wisdom and love, forever advancing toward the Divine likeness, forever drawing nearer to the eternal Fountain of all light, life, peace and joy. No one there ever thinks that he has attained to the ne plus ultra of knowledge, or that the intensity and purity of his love can never be increased. On the contrary they all perceive and acknowledge that what they know is as nothing in comparison with the fathomless abyss of knowledge in the Divine mind; and that their love, in its strength and sweetness, bears no comparison to the Lord's infinite love. While they are in this state of perception and humble acknowledgment, they are in a progressive, because in an open and receptive state.
