p. 4 | Social Gatherings

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jul 6, 1916

Social Gatherings

THERE are social gatherings and social gatherings, some wholesome and upbuilding in their influence, others weakening and demoralizing. It is to be regretted that both of these find patrons and apologists among the followers of the Master. It is entirely proper that the members of the church should come together of an evening to spend a pleasant hour in social converse. That which will determine the character of the gathering and its profit to those who participate in it, will be gauged by the real, underlying purpose of those present, and by the manner in which that purpose is adhered to. The occasion may be made one of real profit, or it may prove a positive menace to spiritual life.

Time spent in idle chitchat and gossip, in joking and jollity, in the playing of games which minister no good to the mental, moral, or physical needs of the participants, in the singing of worldly songs, or in the giving of silly or comical recitations, will prove to be wasted, and will bring only leanness of soul to those who take part. And yet how many such gatherings are held among Seventh-day Adventists!

It is sad to see not only the young and thoughtless taking part in exercises of this kind, but sometimes even those whom we count the staid and sober members of the church. Many such occasions are not considered complete in their appointments unless refreshments, and these usually of the most unwholesome character, consisting of rich cakes and confections, are served at a late hour, in direct violation of the principles of health. On such occasions the participants return to their homes with little relish for prayer or Bible study. In their laughing and joking, merrymaking and feasting, God was forgotten and the Holy Spirit grieved, and their own hearts were left cold and unresponsive to spiritual impressions.

There are other social gatherings where these objectionable features are eliminated. Thought and study are given to the exercises of the hour, to make them as far as possible instructive and wholesome, and at the same time interesting and entertaining. Sensible songs are sung; readings, ennobling and elevating in their character, are given. Short talks are made regarding some phase or feature of practical life, of history, of literature, of travel, or of the work in which we as a people are engaged. Pleasant pastimes and exercises are arranged, which are made both educational and entertaining. If it be a late evening gathering and refreshments are served at all, they consist of fruit or fruit drink. The occasion is graced with prayer. In the joy of fellowship

and innocent amusement or recreation, every heart finds satisfying pleasure, and care and anxiety are banished. From such social gatherings one can go away with increased love for his fellows and deeper devotion to his God. It is a place in which he would not be ashamed to be found if the Lord Jesus Christ should appear. He can return to his home thanking God for the communion of friends, for the association of brethren and sisters, for the strength and cheer and courage which such association brings into his life.

This class of gatherings is to be encouraged throughout our ranks, but the former class should be discouraged by every one who feels jealous for the cause of our Master, and for the preservation of that simplicity in the church of God which in these days of spiritual declension is coming to be seriously threatened. Let us be careful in all our life experiences,—in our homes, in the church of God, in our social relations,—that we grieve not the Spirit “whereby we are sealed unto the day of redemption.” We are living in solemn times. The Judge standeth before the door. We know not how soon our cases may be called in review. Let us deport ourselves as those who are looking for and expecting the coming of the Master.