p. 17 | Peru by F. L. Perry

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 24, 1907

Peru

By F. L. Perry

LIMA.—One year ago this morning (November 16) we landed in Callao. The year has passed very rapidly, and, for the most part, pleasantly. As is usually the case, in looking over the year's work we can see many mistakes, and many good things undone; but we are exceedingly thankful to our kind Heavenly Father for his beneficent care, his daily help in trial, and his patience with us.

With but little exception, our health has been good. In our work we have tried to move cautiously, and we can see that it is gradually coming into shape as an organized effort. Nearly all of the first believers here were leavened with false theories when we came, and most of them have dropped out. The newer members are coming right up through the tests thus brought upon them, and are getting quite fully established in the truth; but it has been a trying task. However, I think that the first year or two will be the most difficult. We have not organized a church yet, and have baptized but two, but hope to organize soon in Lima.

Last night seven came to our meeting, some for the first time, and said that they wanted to keep the Sabbath and unite with us. All seem intelligent.

One man last Sabbath went to his employer, and asked for Sabbath free, offering to work Sundays. The employer refused to grant the request, even though from a trusted man, his under-paymaster. This brother took home his tools, and has spent the week looking for work where he can keep the Sabbath. He is an excellent man, and we shall watch after him carefully.

Brother Robinson has just finished some new benches, and we are looking for a larger meeting place, as this one is outgrown.

We face our second year with courage, and hope, and confidence in God. O, if our people could see the need, and the harvest of souls that might be gathered but may be lost, they would send more men and means into these dark and sinful parts of the earth—our earth; for, is it not promised to the faithful, the children of Abraham? When shall we arise and proclaim the kingdom of the Lord Jesus in the fulness of power? “Then shall the end come.”

How many more of the aged standard-bearers must fall under the power of death before the final victory? Ever since I can remember anything, my father has talked of seeing Jesus come. He tried to do what he could to help. He made an effort to train his children for the work. But death claimed him before the fruition of his hope. He died last May, after living this message for sixty years. May God give to his servants who stand as leaders minds filled with the wisdom of God, and words newly edged with power sent down from heaven, that the work may be done soon.

F. L. PERRY.