A Brief Account of the Sabbath Meetings in Boston Nov. 1st and 8th.
By Annie R. Smith
Nov. 1st. Over thirty in number were present. Deep solemnity pervaded the meeting. Two precious youths, (who were convicted at the late conference held in Medford,) requested our prayers for their salvation, since which time they have found peace in believing, and in keeping the commandments of God. We bless the Lord for what he is doing for the children. The good seed sown at the conference is springing up, and bearing much fruit, we believe, to the glory of God. The brethren were strong in the Lord, pursuing with new energy and courage the way towards the heavenly kingdom, and are evidently increasing in strength and power, as they are seeking for the unity of the faith and spirit. The beneficial effects of the great work accomplished at the conference were manifest, and we hope its salutary influence will continue to be felt. Nov. 8th. This meeting was also well attended. Some brethren in the vicinity, not usually with us, were present, also Bro. Chamberlain from Connecticut. Their labors were much blest. Evident tokens of the presence of the Lord were seen by the immediate and special answers to the fervent prayers offered in behalf of some of our number, and the Spirit and power rested in such a manner that they could but shout and praise God, for his wonderful dealings with the children of men. The all-important truths connected with the third angel's message were presented in a clear, convincing and impressive manner, and awakened an interest in the minds of some who have not taken a decided stand in their defence, which we earnestly hope and pray will result in their full reception of the truth, and their entire consecration to God, "that they may be accounted worthy to escape all that is coming upon the earth and stand before the son of man." I feel more and more the importance of constant watchfulness and prayer in view of the solemn scenes before us, and more and more convinced that our position is based upon a sure foundation; the word of God. And as I examine the evidences of our hope, light is continually breaking in upon my mind from the Sacred Volume, which is indeed a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Every thing tends to strengthen and confirm us in our belief, and I can see no other position taken which so perfectly harmonizes with the Bible, accords with past experience, and sheds so much light upon the events of the future. Upon God's Holy Word I can cast my all, feeling assured that he will, in his own time and way, vindicate his cause. I trust that I have forsaken all to follow the Lamb whithersoever he leads the way. Earth has entirely lost its attractions. My hopes, joys, affections, are now all centered in things above and divine. I want no other place than to sit53at the feet of Jesus, and learn of him—no other occupation, than to be in the service of my Heavenly Father—no other delight, than the peace of God which passeth all understanding. O, praise his name for what he has done for me, I feel a sweet foretaste of the glories of that better world—an earnest of that inheritance—and I am determined by his grace to overcome every obstacle, endure the cross, despising the shame, so that an entrance may be administered abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Saratoga Springs, Nov. 21st, 1851.