A Call From Ethiopia by W. S. HYATT

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Oct 19, 1905

A Call From Ethiopia

By W. S. HYATT

W. S. HYATT

“ETHIOPIA shall soon stretch out her hands unto God.” Ps. 68:31. Long years ago the Lord saw the darkness of the African race, and he inspired his servant to prophesy of a time when this poor, despised people would reach out after the Lord. In the book “Education” the Lord sends us this message:

“Ethiopia is stretching out her hands unto God.” The time has come for God’s truth to go to a hungry people. With outstretched hands Ethiopia stands begging for the Bread of Life. Shall we give it? or shall we treat this appeal the same as many do the ordinary beggar when asking for bread?

Listen, brethren. Listen to the sound of the going in the tops of the mulberry trees. Nearly one hundred years ago the missionaries began work in this country. The native listened, heard, and received some of the things taught. For a long time he was contented, satisfied, with what he had. But after a time he began to read the Bible for himself. The Spirit began to enlighten the dark mind, and then he became dissatisfied. Independent churches were organized. The light shone clearer, and some saw the truth on baptism. More light from the open sanctuary revealed the truth of feet washing. A Zulu in Natal received a few Bible readings, and then started up the country through Zululand, returning by a different route. Everywhere he went, he preached the Sabbath truth. In Cape Colony our brethren found an old native who had kept the Sabbath for many years. He had learned of it from his Bible. The light of truth is shining, and this people whom we have passed by so long are beginning to feel its power, and to respond. Ethiopia is stretching out her hands unto God. Is it not time for us to bestir ourselves as never before? God is no respecter of persons. We all know the story of Philip, and his going down to preach the good tidings to the city of Samaria. Many heard and accepted the things he preached. Although hundreds of people continued to listen, the Lord knew of one hungry soul from Ethiopia, and Philip was called to go and meet him and preach unto him Jesus. I wonder if God is not calling many more the same as he did Philip, desiring to use them to do a similar work? Our experience the last few months shows to us clearly that the Lord can send his truth among the native tribes like the spread of wildfire. Who will consecrate his all to this grand cause, and join in the work of soul-saving?

The last generation is almost finished. Its work will close suddenly. The sealing work will soon be over. Brethren, is your work well done? Are you ready for these things to come? Ah, but there are many who are expecting to join the working band before that great day shall come. To-day they are just waiting—waiting for a more favorable time to invest in the salvation of souls.

The third angel’s message is onward, and nothing can stop it. Victoriously it is marching through the earth. Of every nation it will gather a few as trophies of His redeeming grace.

Cape Town, South Africa.