D. H. KRESS by Daniel H. Kress

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jun 5, 1913

D. H. KRESS

By Daniel H. Kress

By a Physician

This meeting is certain to be a great blessing to those who have the privilege of attending. It has given a new impetus to the work of the third angel's message. We come as workers to ask, that we may be able to impart. Those who thus ask always receive. In a gathering of this character we meet acquaintances from all parts of the world. We meet those with whose names only we are familiar. We have the privilege of a handshake, and by it say, Brother, be of good courage. It tends to bind together the various members of the body with a bond of sympathy and love which is bound to bring strength into the work. In such a union there is strength. We are able to renew old acquaintances. This also is a great blessing, and brings hope and courage to press the battle to the gate.

Good cheer is something all may dispense. We may freely receive and freely give. Some come to these gatherings discouraged, or perhaps they are under a cloud. They may be in the dark. Never call attention to the darkness. They are conscious of it. The only thing that can dispel darkness is light. When darkness was upon the face of the deep, God said, 'Let there be light: and there was light.' We must be channels of light to such. There is no greater joy than to go from one to another throughout the camp conveying good cheer.

I personally was greatly blessed in meeting men and women with whom I was acquainted twenty-five years ago, who are active workers today, bearing responsibilities in foreign fields. Years ago my wife and I had charge of the first French and German school opened by us as a people at Battle Creek. Among those in attendance were Brethren Vuilleumier, Oblander, Schuberth, Aushier, and Westphal, and others, who are present at this meeting. A strange tie exists between old associates in the work, and a meeting of this character binds us all together a little closer.

Such a meeting is of value from an educational standpoint. It enables us to get a glimpse of the great field and its needs. We obtain a better knowledge of the magnitude of the work and how rapidly it is spreading. As we listen, we can see that in a comparatively short time this gospel of the kingdom might be preached in all the world as a witness unto all nations. This leads us to renew our efforts and to make sacrifices that the work may be cut short in righteousness. The order observed in such a camp is an object-lesson of value. The system carried out in the dining-tent, the great variety of simple foods prepared in a wholesome manner, afford another lesson that cannot help but leave its impression.

I can truthfully say that at no time in the past have I attended a meeting that has brought to me greater joy or a

stronger determination to suffer affliction with the people of God, if need be, rather than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. I might also mention that this meeting is certain to prove of great value to our medical work. Principles are being dwelt upon that pertain to all phases of this work. They are freely discussed, but in the spirit of Christ. In such counsel there is safety. I feel certain from what I am able to observe that our institutions will all receive an uplift as a result of this gathering. Those engaged in the field as self-supporting workers in private practise cannot help feeling impressed that they are members of the body and are regarded as brethren in the faith. These will return home with renewed courage, with greater confidence in the message, and a determination to press together and aid in the completion of the work.

Upon the whole, such gatherings are invaluable. The expense is great, it is true, and some may say, 'Why this waste?' but I am convinced that God made no mistake when he called upon the children of Israel at stated intervals to go up to Jerusalem. There is wisdom and economy in a plan of this character.