p. 9 | A LAST-DAY SIGN by S. A. Wellman

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Apr 2, 1902

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 28, No. 14.

A LAST-DAY SIGN.

By S. A. Wellman

In looking up the condition in the island of St. Thomas with regard to tuberculosis in cattle and those animals used as flesh-food, it was the privilege of the writer to interview the government meat inspector. He informed me that the government had at one time thought of inspecting the cattle with reference to the disease, but that upon his information as to the number and proportion of animals involved, the project was abandoned. He further stated that should the government exclude cattle so diseased, it would, in his opinion, shut out four of every five head sold in our markets daily, and raise prices accordingly.

No doubt the number or proportion is slightly exaggerated; but this shows that not only one part, but the whole world is being affected by the ravages of this dread disease.

Surely there is cause for sober thought. He who has the welfare of his dear ones at heart will be seeing to it that such food as this is not placed before them. He will rather provide that which does not require the aid of the veterinary to select, and will return to that which God provided in the beginning for man's sustenance.

The prophecy of the prophet Ezekiel is being rapidly fulfilled, and God is indeed pleading against man, the fowls, the fish, the beast, and every creeping thing with pestilence and blood. And they are shaking at His presence.

He needs thus to plead, because of man's sinful career, which, month by month and year by year, is becoming worse in His sight. Yea, on account of these things pestilence stalketh abroad in the land. Yet those who fear Him, who abide under the shadow of the Almighty in these times, have naught to fear; for tho a thousand “fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand,” “it shall not come nigh thee.” Those who choose His paths, walking in His ways, doing His will, will, in these times of peril, calmly abide the final day.

It has been the privilege of the writer to do work in these lines among some of the influential citizens, and, as a result, several have given up the carnivorous diet. And as this becomes known, many questions are being asked with regard to our doctrines, not only in this regard, but also with reference to other questions for the time being brought before the people. The last days are upon us, and the Lord's people must “arise and shine;” for they have light from on high which demands manifestation, both by precept and example, before all people. Darkness covers “the earth, and gross darkness the people.” “Ye are the light of the world;” “arise, shine.”

S. A. WELLMAN.

Charlotte Amelie, St. Thomas, D. W. I.