MARIA JOHNSON by Maria Johnson

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jul 14, 1868

MARIA JOHNSON

By Maria Johnson

From Sr. Johnson.

BRO. SMITH: I would dearly love to meet with the people of God, and take my little ones to the house of worship on his holy day; but this is not my privilege to enjoy. And while thinking of these things, I came to the conclusion, that although I still “walk a lonely pilgrim here,” with none of like precious faith near me, except my own dear children, who (blessed be God!) do appear to love the Sabbath, I might spend a portion of this beautiful Sabbath afternoon in testifying of the goodness of our Father in Heaven to me and mine. And although not yet free from pain in my head, as it has not yet been my privilege fully to live out the health reform, and although I might plead that I am unaccustomed to writing, yet when I remember what a peculiarly soothing and encouraging influence those letters which I have seen in the REVIEW from lone ones and others who appear to appreciate the trying circumstances of such, have had upon me, I feel that I am left without excuse, because I can write that I love God, his dear Son, his precious truth, and his dear people; and that with this testimony it is not only my privilege, but my duty, to seek to edify my beloved brethren and sisters scattered throughout the land, at least once a year. Last summer I told you that my face was set for glory, and to-day my testimony is still the same, with this addition, that I am stronger in the truth, and the day of the appearing of our lovely and long-looked-for Saviour seems a little nearer. My longing desires are increasing for a deeper draught of the well of salvation; for the advancement of this glorious cause of present truth, that I have so truly loved for nearly twelve years; for the salvation of my family and all others within the reach of my influence; and for health of body and mind, that I may be fully restored to usefulness in my family and society, and thus honor the cause I love. I wish to appreciate the importance and solemnity of this last call of mercy, and seek the salvation of souls and the glory of God, by a more holy and consistent life. Oh! when shall I fully awake to a realizing sense of the dread solemnity of this judgment hour. I am glad to see that the messengers are again in the field, especially those worn servants, Bro. and Sr. White. I was truly glad to see a few lines in the REVIEW, from Sr. Stacy, of Hancock Co., Ohio, with whom I parted last spring; and it is my daily prayer that although she appears to be left alone, she may be upheld by the mighty power of God.

He has seen fit, in his wisdom and mercy, to bless us with a home in this county, and although I walk alone at present, I hope he has a people here who will yet see and obey the present truth.

MARIA JOHNSON

Marshall Co., Ind., May 30.