training and happiness of pure intelligences? Is not a great purpose served simply by the revelation of God in nature? And even though there were no created intelligences to contemplate God's works, and lay upon his altar the tribute of adoration, would the celestial mechanism have no use? Would it not serve some purpose? Has not the material world a purpose simply in relation to the Divine Mind? The artist has a pleasure in transferring to the canvas the creations of his genius; and though no eye but his own ever beheld his pictures, they would not be without a use or purpose. Similarly we can readily conceive that the beauty and harmony of the material world serve a purpose, simply as an object of contemplation to the Divine Mind. God made all things for His own glory; and, no doubt, the highest tribute of glory is brought to Him by the play of moral and intellectual faculties, and the varied phenomena of organisation and life; but this does not hinder, that notes of praise, though feebler, should ascend to God from the play and harmony of mere physical laws. The nicely-balanced orbs of heaven speak the praises of God, as well as the harmonious exercise of the faculties of man. The heavens thus occupy an independent place in declaring the glory of God. They would declare His glory, though they served no utilitarian purpose in regard to life and organisation, and though there were no created intelligences to listen to their notes of praise.
