p. 107 | Macoupin Co., Ill by A. M. Penniman

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jul 30, 1867

Macoupin Co., Ill

By A. M. Penniman

From Sister Penniman.

BRO. SMITH: We are among the lonely ones; and yet how beyond comparison are we privileged above those around us who have relationship in the nominal churches. We have this strong consolation, we know we have the truth. We are striving to keep all God's commands. When the Sabbath comes we hail it with delight, spend it in “searching the Scriptures,” learning a lesson in History of the Sabbath, reading the Sermon in the Review, and the reports and testimonies from the brethren and sisters scattered abroad; and while we see darkness closing in upon the world we feel that there is light ahead for God's people; and we are cheered even here, and feel that we never spent our Sabbaths more profitably.

At times we earnestly long for communion with those of like precious faith; but we joyfully look forward to that glorious time when the saints will all be gathered together, to be separated no more forever. With this event in view, we are striving to live; meanwhile purifying ourselves by obedience to the truth. We want to advance with the remnant people, be fully prepared for the outpouring of the Spirit, in the latter rain. At the same time we remember the wants of the cause, and pray the Lord to raise up more laborers. Truly the field is ripe unto the harvest. We are striving to live out the truth and find some favorable inquirers, and think if a preacher could come here good might be done. But we hope to be living epistles. Dear brethren and sisters, let us take hold of this matter more earnestly, and the Lord will hear and raise up laborers to proclaim the last warning to a perishing world. And while we pray, let us not forget the brethren at the Review Office. The paper comes to us each week richly laden with Bible truths, which are so necessary to nourish our souls in this time of moral darkness and corruption. It seems to me that they, more than all the rest, are heavily laden with the responsibilities of the cause. Let us stay up their hands with our prayers, that they may have divine direction in sending forth a paper which shall contain meat in due season, both to the scattered flock, and those unacquainted with the truth. Let us on the first-day of every week, especially, remember them at the mercy seat. I have been prompted to this by the constant good which I receive from the Review each week, and which is like a cup of cold water to a thirsty soul.

As I said before, we are among the lonely ones, and know not if there are any near us, of like precious faith. We would like to say through the Review that we would be glad to know if there are any in this vicinity; or, if any are passing this way we would be glad to receive a call.

Our P. O. address is Woodburn, Macoupin Co., Ill., three miles from Bunker Hill, on T. H. and St. L. R. R., and six miles from Shipman, on Chicago and Alton R. R.

Yours striving to gain eternal life. A. M. Penniman.