The Fast in Oronoco, Minn.
By H. F. Phelps
Bro. White: Thinking it would do me good to hear of the fast in other places, I thought to pen a few lines about it here, and thus do by others as I would be done by. The appointment of the fast was cheerfully received as being an appointment in the right place. It having been a very late spring, all could not see it their duty to suspend business during the whole of each day. But as far as was practicable, business was suspended, and the meetings were well attended by nearly all who were within reasonable distance. Some thought it duty to refrain from labor entirely. The church, or those present, seemed to feel deeply their unworthiness, their need of a deep repentance, the importance of the work, the object of the fast, and the great necessity of their humbling themselves before God, acknowledging his chastening hand in these afflictions, and crying mightily to him to remove his rebuke, and work himself—knowing that if he would work none could hinder. Sabbath afternoon was particularly a refreshing time. All seemed deeply impressed with the responsibility that was resting on them. Wrongs were confessed, and in deep humility all cried unto God, to work mightily, for our enemies were before and behind, and none could help but God. All seemed to drink into the good spirit. Praise God, he will be inquired of by the house of Israel. And when we try to draw near to him he will always come near to us! We have the utmost confidence that God will hear the prayers of his people—raise up the watchmen, and lead on his truth and people to a glorious victory. I want to be there. I mean by God's grace to share in that victory. I want to receive the conqueror's crown, the victor's palm, and reign with Christ to all eternity. Come on dear brethren let us mend our pace. Let us not begin to say by our actions, if not by our words, "My Lord delayeth his coming." The prize is only for those who endure to the end. "Now here's my heart and here's my hand,
To meet you in that heavenly land,
Where we shall part no more." Your brother,
Pine Island, Minn.
H. F. Phelps.