The Door Closing Forever by J. S. Washburn

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 31, 1907

The Door Closing Forever

By J. S. Washburn

IN a Testimony written April 27, 1899, occurs the following: “I awoke, but my soul was burdened. I felt that peculiar trials were to come upon the people of God. Then was presented before me the situation in the Southern field. The work which should have been done in that field has not been done.”

Under date of July 2, 1899, appear these words: “That which might have been done years ago in the South can not now be done.” Seven years and six months ago the Lord declared through his servant that some opportunities even then were closed forever. Since that time we fear that other doors have been shut and locked, never to be opened; and it is a terrible truth that the situation in the South is becoming more difficult, and that the time must come soon when our work shall be finished here.

We gaze, as it were, into a room where the great need appeals to us, as messengers of the last message of salvation. Helpless hands are reached out for that which alone can save, enlighten, and deliver. But O, the door is slowly swinging shut, never to open! Who will work for the South now? Who will give of his means, if he can not give himself and his entire service, to accomplish that which must be done in the South before the Lord comes? J. S. WASHBURN.