p. 5 | THE LITTLE FLOCK by D. A. Simmons

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jun 18, 1867

THE LITTLE FLOCK.

By D. A. Simmons

CAN you tell the members of the nominal churches from the world around them? Do they show by dress and deportment that they are walking in the strait and narrow path the Saviour pointed out? Are they his peculiar people who are zealous of good works? Alas, no! They go hand in hand with the fashionable multitude in the broad road of pleasure. If you go to the halls of mirth, you see them there; to the concerts, they are there; and to any of the places of amusement, and there you find them participating in the festivities of the scene. They throw the cloak of religion around them, but their hearts are void of the love and Spirit of God.

We turn from the sight with aching hearts, and ask, Where, oh where are God's true children who have renounced the world and are not partakers of its sins? We are shown a little company that are despised and rejected by the world, at whom the finger of scorn is pointed. We ask them why they have forsaken the world with all its allurements, and why they choose a path so rough, and often bedewed with tears? They tell us that this world is not their home, but they are only pilgrims and sojourners here; that they have no abiding city here, but look for one to come; and that this world is a dark and dreary place to them. Sorrow and sighing are on every side. Cruel death is here and often snatches their loved ones from their fond embrace, and lays them in the cold and silent tomb; but they have a hope that they would not exchange for all the glory and fame of earth; a hope that if they are faithful a little while longer to the grace already given, they will receive a bright reward.

Now as we are among this company, let us by a patient continuance in well doing seek for life and immortality as brought to light through the gospel of our Lord. Let us not complain of our trials, but remember that our Saviour was despised and rejected of men, and that he was a man of sorrow, acquainted with grief; and as he is our pattern, let us walk in his footsteps; let us show to the world that we are living up to our profession, that they, seeing our good works may be led to exclaim, Surely there is a reality in religion. Let us go with this people to Mt. Zion, and see the King in his beauty. Let me enter in through the gates of that celestial city where sin can never come to destroy our peace. Let me see those dear ones that are sleeping in Jesus, and with all that glad throng shout victory over death and the grave, and praise God forever and ever. There sorrow will be forgotten. The cross will be laid down for the crown. Bright palms of victory and harps of gold will be ours to enjoy; and joyfully will we sing, Worthy, worthy is the Lamb. To him belongs all glory and praise forever and ever.

“Roll swift around ye wheels of time, And bring the welcome day.”

Take courage, servants of the Lord, and go on your way rejoicing; for your redemption draweth nigh. Weak ones, be strong. Lonely ones, look up. Jesus loves you. He has gone to prepare a place for you, and will soon come to receive you. Backsliders, return to the arms that are extended to receive you. He is not willing that you should perish. And while his Spirit is pleading, come all ye that are weary and heavy laden and find rest to your souls.

D. A. SIMMONS.

Warren Co., Pa.