Results of Labor at Victory
By Jennie Messersmith
DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: As some who have been acquainted with my stay at the Institute would be glad to hear from me, I take pleasure in sending a few lines for the REVIEW. After five weeks of earnest labor among us, our much-esteemed Bro. Sanborn has left us. His preaching was the first on the third angel's message and truths connected therewith that we have ever had at Victory; and we, as a little band, have prized it most highly. As the result of his labors a few have decided to go with us to the kingdom, while others are halting, almost persuaded, yet not quite willing to give up the world. The prize to them seems beautiful, but the charms of this poor world, for the present, eclipses that beauty. There is another class who hardened their hearts, and would not listen to the precious word of God; but this is only in accordance with the sure word of prophecy, that "Many are called but few chosen." Are we the chosen of the Lord, dear friends? Not yet, for "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of Heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in Heaven." Thus far are we chosen when we hear the voice of the Good Shepherd and follow in his footsteps. Have we heard that voice in the sound of the third angel's message? Yes, verily, as much as in any other portion of the Scriptures, and are trying to follow in his footsteps; but oh! what a responsibility is resting upon us. I feel my need of a Saviour, and my daily cry is, Lord, save, or I perish! In my own strength I am perfect weakness; but I hear that voice, "Follow on to know the Lord," and my strength is renewed, and I press onward toward the city. Soon Jesus is coming, and I want a citizenship there. Shall I, with all the dear friends whom I have met in the last year, be ready? This remains for us to decide. Let us not loiter by the way, but choose the better part that cannot be taken away. The enemy of all truth is on our track; but we can secure an heavenly inheritance if we perseveringly try; Jesus is willing and invites us to come. Holy angels are watching to welcome us on, and shall we be less interested than the heavenly host? Oh! fatal delay to those who trifle with proffered mercy, and slumber on the brink of destruction. Soon the door of mercy will have closed, and shall we be found standing without, begging for admittance when too late? Oh! no; dear friends, let this not be our fate. Time is very short, but we can improve each moment. If we have been slothful in the past, we can be diligent in the future. When I review my experience in the past, my soul cries out in anguish at the many failures, but I know it will not do to cease my efforts. This is the way to eternal life, and I must walk therein. Pray for me, that I may keep pace with the people of God, and when Jesus comes be found worthy of a place among them. Yours in hope.
JENNIE MESSERSMITH.