p. 16 | Turkey by ROBT. S. GREAVES.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 31, 1908

Turkey

By ROBT. S. GREAVES.

SMYRNA.—The prospering hand of God is with us here. All our brethren rejoice in the liberty which prevails throughout the country; though we regret that the spirit of freedom which has been felt since the granting of the constitution has not always led the people to act wisely, and at times they put on a boldness which formerly they did not dare to do.

The other day we had the election for the members who are to form the new government; and the Greek element in this city, being dissatisfied, assembled the next day in large numbers, with many of their nationality from the surrounding country, armed with revolvers, and demanded what they considered their rights. The principal thoroughfare where they had gathered was lined with Turkish soldiers, with fixed bayonets, and the bazaars and shops were all closed, in expectation of trouble. The Turkish officials seemed to show a commendable forbearance in dealing with the loud and threatening manner of the Greeks, and apparently are determined not to do anything which might bring them into disrepute abroad, during this present crisis. While the government has its hands full in dealing with many perplexing questions, we, in the Lord’s name, are trying to draw people’s attention to things which are more important than those of this earth.

As one or two of our brethren have moved into Smyrna, we have been able to organize a small company of six members, with two other Sabbath-keepers who attend our little gathering regularly. Formerly one of these, who has kept the Sabbath for years, was not fully in harmony with us on the tithing question and the spirit of prophecy. But I think it was mostly through lack of knowledge; for now he is doing very well, and has requested baptism. He is able to earn only about twenty-five or thirty cents a day, but a short time ago he paid eighty-two cents as tithe. When we remembered how hard this brother has to work, and how his meals must often consist of but a piece of bread with a few grapes, we looked upon this money as indeed sacred to the cause of God, and could not help contrasting his case with that of some of our brethren in America, who, while having a greater abundance than this poor man has ever dreamed of, yet think they are too poor to pay their tithe.

About two weeks ago it was my privilege to baptize two of our sisters, who, though they have observed the Sabbath for a long time, had never had the opportunity

of obeying this command of the Lord. We found a quiet spot on the bank of a clear river, and the divine presence was certainly with us as these dear souls were buried in the water. Our little company attracted the attention of a soldier and a boy, who came up, and, standing on the opposite side of the river, witnessed the ordinance. Perhaps it all seemed very strange to them; but I hope the scene may be recalled by them whenever they hear the gospel. One of those who recently accepted the truth has had to leave Smyrna, but I hear he is doing a good work where he is now living, and has the missionary spirit to labor for others.

I hope to see a mighty movement sweep over this country, with its millions of unwarned souls. Just how or when it will take place I do not know; but as we have only a few more years, the work must be done quickly.

My wife and I are trying to do what we can in spreading the glad tidings of a soon-coming Saviour. I should have to write a longer article than this were I to tell of all the blessings we are enjoying; but among them are good health, the Lord’s presence with us, and glad and thankful hearts for the privilege of a part in the work here.

Sister Kalfa is helping us, and is very useful in interpreting, as she speaks several languages. We are getting on nicely with the Greek language, but we feel the need of the Lord’s help, in order that we may learn quickly, and thus be of more use in the work. In the past we have been greatly blessed in many ways, and feel that much of this has been due to the prayers of our brethren. For these we are grateful, and shall be very thankful for their continuance; for our hope and joy is to see souls saved for the kingdom. It is for this purpose we are here; and when we hear how the message is spreading in other parts of the earth, it increases our happiness, and we give thanks to our kind Father, who has given us this oneness of spirit in his work. ROBT. S. GREAVES.