OUR ANNUAL MEETING by T. M. STEWARD

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jun 23, 1868

OUR ANNUAL MEETING.

By T. M. STEWARD

ANOTHER yearly meeting is past, and it reminds me of the yearly feasts they used to enjoy in ancient times. I want to say a word in reference to the state of the cause in our Conference. While we have reason to regret that so few have been persuaded to seek the Lord, yet, in surveying the past, we may well rejoice, that our brethren are becoming more firmly established in these truths, and are getting an experience in the Christian life, which will be of immense value to them amid the perils of these last days. The school of Christ is a progressive one, and we need to be renewed each day for the trials that are calculated to purify us. How comforting, as we look over the past, to see those who have been buffeted, and tried, and rebuked, and chastened, becoming firm, solid pillars in the cause. The trial of such is precious to the Master; and, like Peter, having been converted, they are able now to strengthen their brethren. May the Lord help us all to bear with patience and fortitude the purifying process, until we are perfected.

We have many reasons to believe that this has been the most profitable meeting we have ever enjoyed in our Conference. While Brn. Andrews and Cornell have most faithfully given their Bible testimonies, it was cheering to see how readily all received it as the message from Heaven. It is very evident, the Lord helped them to give it, and it is equally evident that the Lord helped the others to see and receive it by personal application to their own hearts. I trust we are to see better days here. I don't mean, when we can rest at ease and have nothing to do. No! No! But I mean when there shall be a general coming up to the help of the Lord, and when all will have a mind to work. When we may all find our place in the Lord's vineyard, and cheerfully bear our burdens with those who have been so nearly crushed, bearing our burdens. Let us stay up their hands that Israel may prevail.

I see more union in our Conference than I have ever seen before. Praise the Lord! for in union there is strength. Oh! may the ministers of Christ be richly imbued with the spirit of their Master! labor with reference to the Judgment, and clear their skirts from the blood of souls. Lord inspire us all with heavenly wisdom and divine grace for the work before us. Alas! how soon our work must be done, and we must report our labors to the high court of Heaven. Solemn thought. Only a few hours left us to labor, and then eternity hangs upon the consideration of “well done,” or “unprofitable.” Oh! for more grace, more love, and more faith. Lord, increase our faith. May the Lord so help us this conference year, that we may make more visible progress in spiritual attainments. Praying the Lord to sustain his cause in every department, to be with and bless his servants,

I remain yours in hope of life.

T. M. STEWARD.