Convis and Newton, Mich.
By A. S. Hutchins
At Convis, May 10-13. A number of brethren and sisters were with us on Sabbath, from other towns. I spoke with freedom on the preparation of heart requisite to meet the soon coming King of glory. It is the privilege of this church to be strong, to give to all with whom they may associate the clearest evidence that they are seeking an inheritance “incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away.” This world is not our home. The chosen servants of the Lord should be united in separating themselves from the world, and in bearing the cross. Such will obtain the crown. Precious consideration! The meeting seemed to inspire new hope and courage in the hearts of God’s people. On first-day, met to arrange some financial matters. Pledges were made in response to the appeal in behalf of our denominational school. Others, not present, it is said, will help in this worthy enterprise. A meeting also was held to celebrate the ordinances of the Lord’s house. The most profound gratitude and love should fill our hearts for memorials so highly appropriate, commemorative of the Saviour’s dying love to fallen man. How critically we should examine ourselves and try the motives of our hearts, and with what sweet union and unfeigned love should the church gather around the Lord’s table to partake of the emblems of the broken body and shed blood of the Son of God. Do any entertain doubts as to whether our views and practice on the subject of communion are scriptural? Can this possibly justify such in withdrawing from, and casting severe reflections upon, the church? May not those who do thus unintentionally, grieve the Spirit of God and wound his cause? On this question, there is light and truth in the word of God, and I cannot believe it is beyond the reach of the candid. I am confident the excellent article from Elder C. J. Butler, on open and close communion, in REVIEW of the 27th inst. will be read by those desiring the truth on this point with great satisfaction. Some sixty brethren and sisters, from different churches, met in quarterly meeting on the 17th, in Newton. The Lord gave freedom, in speaking from 2 Cor. 12:1. The social meeting following was characterized by a spirit of solemnity and true devotion. Nearly all expressed unshaken confidence in the perpetuity of the gifts of the Spirit. Precious youth were moved to tears, and seemed to desire that blessing which is only found in seeking Jesus. Several arose, expressing a desire to be remembered in our prayers. Thus drew to its close an impressive meeting, the memory of which I cherish with emotions of gratitude to our Heavenly Father. First-day was profitably spent in visiting different families. My heart is drawn out in love, and in deep solicitude for the salvation of this little company of believers. May each one be able to say, in the fear of the Most High, “I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes alway, even unto the end.” And may the victor’s crown be theirs. A. S. HUTCHINS.