Michigan State Meeting
By C. G. Howell
In view of the deep significance of the movement which is now testing this people in reference to the distribution of “Christ’s Object Lessons,” a meeting of the Michigan workers was held in Charlotte, April 9–14. Nearly all the conference laborers were present. The object of the meeting was presented by Elder Cowell, to whom the call to this work had come in about the same light that it has to many, as a turning point in the worker’s experience in connection with this cause. It seemed clear that the call of the Master for us to find homes for the book he has thus committed to our trust, is of such a character that it will reveal to us our own sincerity, or the opposite, and lead to a united effort on the part of those who decide to go on with this great message. Experience after experience was related in which it was shown how the test came differently to different individuals; but as the human will was submitted to the divine call, victories were gained, without which the worker could not continue in this cause in a manner acceptable to God. It is evident that “the refreshing” is bound up in this movement; for of it such wonderful things as the following have been written for us:— “When the trial has been fully made, there will come a blessed result. . . . They will feel the highest happiness of a rational mind.” “After you have done all you can do in this work for the schools, by sanctified energy and much prayer, you will see the glory of God.”
—“Rolling Back the Reproach,” pages 21, 22. In view of such a design in the mind of him who has called us to this holy message, the desire seemed to prevail at the meeting to fulfill God’s great purpose in unfolding to us his call to service. Professor Prescott was present over Sabbath, and emphasized the importance of the present crisis, showing that those who bear this life-giving message are themselves to be that which they declare,—“the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Dr. Edwards and Professor Magan were also present from Berrien Springs, with words of hope, instruction, and cheer. Professor Magan read a very encouraging letter just received from Sister White, in regard to the sale of “Christ’s Object Lessons.” The subjects of church schools and city missions were helpfully discussed; and an instructive paper on “The Home Department of the Sabbath School” was read by Sister S. M. Butler, of Ann Arbor. A very important and practical plan was put into execution by the assignment to each worker of from one to four churches, in connection with which he is to labor till their quota of four books for each member is taken. And it is expected that the workers and churches which dispose of their quota before others will help every man his neighbor till the glad work triumphs, and God’s plan is vindicated. C. G. HOWELL.