An Ideal Missionary Meeting by H. J. Farman

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 14, 1907

An Ideal Missionary Meeting

By H. J. Farman

Virginia

An Ideal Missionary Meeting

It was the writer’s privilege recently to attend what to him seemed a model missionary meeting. It was held in a small church in a large city. All its members were women, except one, a young man who is a canvasser, and he has charge of their meetings. Most of the sisters were quite well advanced in years, with many home cares, yet they were enthusiastic over what was being done. They had been learning during the past two years something of what could be done by the sale of our books and papers, but mostly our papers. Now they were settling down to a systematic work, and had conceived the idea of a weekly missionary meeting, reading their reports of work done, and giving their experiences. The leader asked me to give opportunity for such a meeting at the close of the sermon, which I did, and this was the best part of the meeting.

The faces of those who had taken part in the work lighted up with joy as they told of how the Lord had blessed them as they engaged in this house-to-house work. None were without opportunity; for when they could not go out, the Lord sent people to them. It is needless to say that the minister found interested hearers and plenty of places to visit.

One very interesting feature of the meeting was the fact that several who had before pleaded their inability to do anything were now in the foremost ranks. This shows the advantage of having a faithful canvasser to lead out in the work. Why should not all our church leaders and elders be real missionary canvassers and workers? Is it consistent to appoint others? When Sisera was defeated by Israel, as recorded in Judges 4 (see the American Revised Version), we are told “that the leaders took the lead in Israel,” and that “the people offered themselves willingly.” Judges 5:2. Thus a victory was won, and a song of joy followed. Read the chapter. In like manner will it be in the closing of the third angel’s message. Rev. 14:6; 18:1. The psalmist foretold the same when he said: “Thy people offer themselves willingly in the day of thy power, in holy array.” “They shall speak of the glory of thy kingdom, and talk of thy power.” Ps. 110:3; 145:11. So let the good work go on.

H. J. FARMAN.