Untitled article by W. J. Bostwick

Untitled article

W. J. Bostwick

Seventh-day Adventist Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Jul 15, 1880

MISSIONARY WORK IN CALIFORNIA—DISTRICT NO. 7.

THE district quarterly meeting of the T. and M. Society was held according to appointment, and although the attendance was not so large as on other occasions, the interest in the success of the work manifested by those present was cheering to witness. Elds. Haskell and Waggoner were present, and interspersed the exercises with appropriate and encouraging remarks. Sister Ireland, librarian of the Pacheco society, was also present, and gave a very interesting account of the progress of the missionary work in that place. Pacheco is probably one of the most difficult places in the entire district in which to do missionary work. The opposition is intense and unscrupulous, and the little company there have had a difficult task to stem this tide; yet by persevering and untiring missionary effort coupled with faith in God they have succeeded in bringing two persons, heads of a family, into the truth, thus adding to the number of Sabbath-keepers as well as to the Sabbath-school, for where the parents go, at least in this case, the children follow.

From this we would learn a lesson: never to be discouraged in the missionary work. Although we may not immediately see good results follow well directed missionary effort, we have no reason to think good will not come of it. The Lord takes his own way and his own time to bring these things to a head, and all there is for the servant to do is to sow in faith, even mingling the seed with tears, and commit the work to God. He will take care of it; he will water the seed with his Spirit, and finally an abundant harvest of souls will appear to the glory of God and to the joy of the worker.

We regret to say that we have received no report from the Lafayette society. We fear these brethren are not so wide awake in regard to duty as they might be. A few strong draughts of the spirit of the world will soothe the most vigilant into slumber. And what a time to slumber, with time so short and the enemy so watchful and energetic! Let us arouse, brethren, and put on the garments of strength. Let us not place ourselves in the position of the evil servant who says in his heart, My Lord delayeth his coming, for then we will act according to what is in our heart; but let us always have our lights burning, so that when the Lord cometh and knocketh we may open unto him immediately.

Below we give a report of the work done in the district the past quarter, as far as received:—

No. pp. tracts, pamphlets, and books loaned - - 70,936 ” “ ” “ “ ” given away - - - 56,702 ” Periodicals distributed - - - - - - 7,306 ” Letters written - - - - - - - 172 ” Subscribers for periodicals - - - - - 17

It is of course understood that only tracts can be given away at the expense of the Society, pamphlets and books being at the expense of the donor. In regard to finances, our district is a little in debt to the State, but the prospect for having this removed the present quarter is very good, and no doubt the incoming conference year will see district No. 7 free from all indebtedness and with a balance in its favor.

We hope our missionary members will take hold of the work the present quarter, with energy and perseverance. Let us remember that we shall soon stand before the judgment seat of God, where every one will be judged according to his or her works. Let us heed the injunction of our Lord: Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” W. J. BOSTWICK, Director.