Spain by Frank Bond

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Aug 1, 1907

Spain

By Frank Bond

VALENCIA.— Sabbath morning about ten o’clock we assembled upon the shore of the beautiful Mediterranean. To add to the beauty of the occasion, the weather was perfect.

There were perhaps seventy-five or one hundred present, who for the first time in their lives witnessed a gospel baptism. Very good attention was given while the meaning and importance of this rite were being explained. Among those assembled were several fishermen, who left their ships in order to be present. We hope that some of these may some day forsake all, and follow the Master.

One of those baptized is a man seventy-eight years of age. As I think of this brother, the words in Jer. 23:29 come to mind: “Is not my word like as a fire? saith the Lord; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces?” Although so advanced in years, this man has decided that there is power in God’s word to deliver him from all his bad habits, including the use of wine and tobacco.

Another of those baptized is a sister seventy years of age. Some time ago her eldest daughter left home because of the mother’s interest in the study of the Bible. She is with relatives only about forty-five miles from here. To add to her suffering, when this mother turned from Romanism, and began to obey the truth, the younger daughter decided to don the veil. Acting upon this decision, she entered a convent for nuns, several months ago. It means something for a mother to take a step which she knows will turn her daughters from her in this manner. There are those who would not recant their allegiance to God and his truth were they threatened with martyrdom at the stake. This is the kind of material that will form the great building in God’s kingdom.

Are there not some who may read these lines who feel that God is calling them to go into these neglected parts of his vineyard, to hunt out these jewels?

Besides the six baptized, there are two who are keeping the Sabbath, and expect to be baptized soon. Several others are much interested.

Our hearts are made glad as we read the reports of the advance of the message in all parts of the field. This is the time for this people to arise like one man, and finish the work which God in his great mercy has entrusted to us.

FRANK BOND.