Never Expected to See a Miracle
By E. D. Thomas
Nevertheless He Saw a Miracle of Transforming Power On the evening of the last Sabbath in March, I had the blessed privilege of burying two souls with their Lord in baptism. When I walked into the clear water of the beautiful lake, which is near our mission bungalow, my heart was much impressed, and began to review the time of my own baptism in that same place in April, 1910. At that time, I had little idea of this blessed privilege I have had of baptizing my own people in the same place. I thank God for all the rich blessing He has bestowed on me ever since I began to accept this message and obey Him. That day was a day of great blessing to me. I reconsecrated myself to my God and His work. The evening before the baptism, we had a testimony service. These two men gave very encouraging testimonies. One of them was much moved in his heart, and gave a full story of his past wicked life, and the power of the gospel which has helped him to make a thorough change in his life. I will try to express his testimony in a few words. He said: “I was born in a semi-heathen family. My parents were members of the Hindu Christian church of this community. I have never had a liking to read in the word of God; but on the other hand, I got hold of a company of friends, who gave me all their possible help in training me to be a confirmed drunkard. I have tasted nearly all kinds of Indian and foreign liquors. “Six years ago, when Pastor James was conducting meetings on the veranda of this mission bungalow, I had the privilege of attending some of those meetings. When I went back to Ceylon to my trade, a change began to dawn in my life. I bought a Bible, and read a portion of it every day. Whenever I read it, it condemned me as a great sinner. And I have read all the Tamil tracts and papers published by this mission. I began to accept all the light received from them day by day. NEVER EXPECTED TO SEE A MIRACLE
“It was very hard for me for a time to give up all my wicked life; but every day, I became stronger in doing the will of God. I praise the Lord that the anchor still holds. I thank Him for the victories I have gained. The Bible is the most wonderful book in the world. I have just begun to learn how to study it. I never expected to see any miracle performed; but it is a wonderful miracle that I am a changed man. Praise God for the power that can keep any one from smoking, swearing, drinking, and bad company.” I am glad for the text, “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” Dear brethren and sisters, kindly remember me, and the work in this part of His vineyard, before the throne of Grace. The interest still holds good. Many more precious souls are planning to follow our Lord in baptism before long. I hope and pray that I shall be ever faithful to Him until the end; and would use all my strength and influence in winning many more souls in my country to His kingdom.