Gratitude Expressed by A. S. Hutchins

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 8, 1873

Gratitude Expressed.

By A. S. Hutchins

I WISH to express the gratitude of my heart for the privilege of attending the Conference of S. D. Adventists, recently held in this city. Never was my confidence in the spread and ultimate triumph of those truths which unite us as a people, stronger than at the present.

Reports from various parts of the great harvest field were of the most cheering character. To learn that many men of other nations, as well as Americans, men of piety, of ability, and of experience in the religion of the Bible, are being stirred up to a candid and prayerful examination of the truths we present, and that they are taking hold with energy and devotion to help bear the light to the nations of the world, is certainly cause for the most profound gratitude to God. Truly, he is fitting up a people for translation into the everlasting kingdom of his dear Son.

And the question comes home forcibly to my heart, Shall not those of us who have long professed a love for all the commandments of God, and a love for the second coming of Jesus, our dear Saviour, be awake, and diligently improve the fast-passing moments of probation? Shall not our works show our faith in these things? Abiding joy should fill our hearts, that we have or may have a part in this work. Upon a proper use of these precious moments, is suspended our hope of eternal life. Eternal life! Who can estimate its worth? Shall we forfeit it for the fleeting pleasures of time? Shall we not rather in all things render obedience to our heavenly Master, and secure it, with all of its inestimable blessings?

It is high time that each one of us was aroused to fully realize the weight of responsibility resting upon us. Let us arise to new activity and untiring energy in the cause, and help swell the last notes of warning mercy to the world.

It was indeed gratifying to meet Bro. and Sr. White, on their return from California, with so good health and buoyancy of spirit. During the long years of their connection with this work, they have, in sacrifice, self-denial, and arduous labors, given the most satisfying evidence of their devotion to it. Those best acquainted with them best know this fact. It is the most reasonable conclusion that God has chosen servants to lead out in his cause, and to encourage the people forward. May we all stand by them, and feel that union in our hearts which sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth secure. May we heed the counsels and admonitions of Heaven, and may it not be said of us, “Ye have set at naught all my counsel, and would none of my reproof.” May we rather hearken unto the voice of the Master, that we “may dwell safely, and be quiet from the fear of evil.” “And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.”

A. S. HUTCHINS.

Battle Creek, Mich., March 26, 1873.