The Growth of the Cause.
By GEO. W. PARKER.
DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: The subject of the enlargement of the Review and Herald I see is again submitted to our consideration. Our paper is a silent messenger which comes to us weekly, heavily laden with a rich store of knowledge. It contains many cheering testimonies from the brethren and sisters, which brace us up to renew our watchfulness; and by heeding its teachings, we as a people are enabled to grow in grace, the love of God, and a knowledge of his truth. Our paper is also an intellectual bond which gives those of like faith a mutual acquaintance with one another, and increases their love and respect for those of the household of faith. At the same time it increases their desire to see the salvation of sinners.152 The word “enlargement” sounds well when it is applied to our love for God and his cause. But this is to no purpose if we do not put our hands into our purses and ask ourselves how much we will do to give it a growth. Let the paper grow ten dollars’ worth for me; and if by God’s blessing, I am better able when it is called for, I will make it more. Enlarge the paper? Yes. For the time for mercy is narrowing down. The vials of wrath are coming nearer day by day. The long dark night of desolation will soon begin, and the saints occupy the thrones of righteous judgment. In consideration of these facts, let us pour into the treasury of the Lord a recompense as near as we are able, for that which he has given us. Let us not withhold our hand in the evening of the day of mercy. The paper is a messenger which has brought joy to many a bleeding heart, and such a rejoicing as money without the paper could not have brought. A small sheet may show the excellent capabilities of editors or publishers; it will show also, if we suffer it to remain small, how much we are inclined to support it by subscription or otherwise. I bless the Lord for his bounty in giving us so good a one. But let us enlarge our hearts with love to God, and love to our neighbors as ourselves. Then will our purse strings be unloosed to supply the necessary means for the growth of present truth.