Impressive Reminder by Editor

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, Cal. · Jun 18, 1885

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 11, No. 24.

Impressive Reminder.

By Editor

THE readers of our periodicals are well acquainted with Brother R. F. Cottrell through his writings. In this manner he has greatly helped the cause of truth. Though aged and infirm enough to be "superannuated," his interest in the truth is not abated, and his labors do not cease. Lately our heart was caused to "burn within us" by receiving the following note from him:—

"DEAR BROTHER: All things conspire to tell us that the work of the gospel will soon be finished. The winds will be held a little longer for the servants of God to be sealed [Rev. 7:1-3], while the last message is spreading over the earth. You and I belong to ‘this generation,’ and it may be our lot to witness the closing scene, terrible as it will be. We have believed the Lord's work these many years, have loved it, I trust, in a measure at least, and if faithful may see its consummation. At all events I hope to be found with you at the post of duty while life on earth shall last; and finally, when all God's people are gathered and changed to immortality that we may be found of the number who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Yours to meet there, "R. F. COTTRELL."

Yes, that will be a "terrible" day; unspeakably terrible to those who are compelled to "drink of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation;" to those who have no refuge, but vainly call upon the rocks and mountains to fall on them, and hide them from the face of him that sitteth upon the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb. That day will be the culmination of all the terrors which have been suffered by the impenitent in the time of trouble, in the plagues of God's wrath, or which have been threatened since man first fell from the favor of God.

But that day will have no terror for the "little flock" who have the assurance that Jesus is coming for their redemption. All their terror, their fears, their struggles and sufferings, will forever pass away in that day. But "who shall it be?" That is a question that presses upon us with great weight, as "we see the day approaching." God grant in mercy (for it will be all of mercy), dear Brother C., that we may be steadfast in the "patience of hope, and the labor of love," faithful in duty until that day shall dawn in terror and in glory—all glory for "the remnant."