An Address by D. H. Lamson

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Oct 17, 1871

An Address

By D. H. Lamson

TO THE LICENTIATES OF THE MICHIGAN CONFERENCE.

Dear Brethren:—In view of the vastness of the gospel field, the condition of the harvest and the lack of LABORERS we feel it a duty to urge you to commence earnestly, and as soon as possible, the work to which you have been called. Determined, persistent, and united action will accomplish wonders for the cause of present truth. When shall it begin? Why not now? Has God called us to work? If so, will he be satisfied if we remain inactive? The time of year has arrived when individual effort can be made with strong hope of success. Then let the ball be set in motion. Let the banner of the third angel in all its gracefulness and beauty be unfolded.

Indecision in a great degree seems to characterize the movements of those who have but little experience in the work. Should this be so? It should not and for the following reasons: Those who have rightly received license to publicly present the claims of the present truth, have not themselves only felt a burden of the work, but their brethren have also felt it a duty to urge them into the field. No one can reasonably expect to labor with any degree of acceptance who does not feel the force of both these considerations. If but one of these reasons is available in the case of any, or can with propriety be urged, grave doubts as to expediency will arise; but if neither, then beyond all doubt the energies of such should be applied in labor of a different character.

But it is believed that all who have during the present year received license, have felt deep convictions of duty, calling for an exercise of their abilities in the direction of public labor. There is no doubt that if there be directness of effort firm and unflinching, the blessing of God will attend and desirable results will be attained.

Dear brethren, the church has placed upon you responsibilities. Will you bear them? You yourselves have accepted them of your own free will. Dare you throw them off without an effort? Do not forget the advantages of immediate action. If you fail utterly there is no ignominy, no reproach. The church can withdraw its claims and leave you free. And if successful, how cheerfully will you be sustained in all your labor.

It will take no long time to prove your calling. One month, possibly two, under favorable circumstances, is enough; and surely we can sacrifice this much of time even though we fail. But let not failure but success be our motto and with the blessing of God, a work will be accomplished which will tell in our favor in the day of eternity; for the souls that are gathered will add stars to our crowns. There are toils and privations, buffetings and temptations, sighs and tears, even on our own account, with the griefs and woes of others. All these to bear; but “he that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” And whose shall this happy lot be in that day?

D. H. LAMSON.