Editorial by Editor

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Dec 29, 1904

Editorial

By Editor

Looking Backward

With the passing of the old year it is natural, and perhaps profitable, to review the record of 1904. Although we can not change the past, we may be able to draw from it encouragement and warning for the future. It ought to be clear to the observing and thoughtful that history is being made very fast in these days. Events of great significance follow each other in rapid succession, and the sensation of yesterday is overshadowed by the greater sensation of to-day. This has been true in almost every line of human experience. In this time of great light the minds of men have been stimulated to wonderful achievement, and the fruits of the intense life have been seen in the whole intellectual field. That which casts a dark shadow over the whole picture is the fact that the Bible and the God of the Bible have, with such increasing emphasis, been refused their place as the inspiration and the power for good; and as an inevitable consequence evil has become more and more rampant. That control in human affairs which is often called self-control, but which is really the restraining influence of the Spirit of God, has been in a large degree, rejected, and rapid progress has been made in that experience which will finally demonstrate to the universe the true nature of sin,—unrestrained sin,—sin in its real hideousness. The year has also been marked by significant experiences in our own work. That teaching which threatened the very life of this advent movement has been openly challenged and repudiated, and there has been a seeking after the old paths, which is bringing back the old-time spirit of this message. With this revival of faith and courage there has also been an increase of missionary zeal, and a more intelligent comprehension of the world-wide nature of this work. The year has witnessed such action on the part of some of the home conferences as indicates a purpose to plan for really finishing the work in this generation. Finally, the reports thus far received seem to warrant the conclusion that the recent week of prayer was a time of revival and preparation for greater things. The backward view reveals mistakes and failures, but there are also victories and progress. Let us profit by these experiences, as we face the conflicts which are yet to come.