Rejoicing in the Truth
By P. D. Lawrence
BRO. SMITH:—We do not begin to realize the worth of jewels, which God will gather into his casket in the day of gathering; when we do, we shall fulfill the command of Jesus, which is so much contended for: Love one another as I have loved you. How great was that love! and yet how few love to obey it. I for one do not yet love as I am bidden; but am trying to live by every word of God until I do. I can say I rejoice in the truth. I can rejoice that God's word has led me down here, though I have made crooked paths, yet the path which will lead me into the City, is one straight path and very narrow, and few find it. The way is plain if we exactly follow the word. We can discern the beast and his image, and the lamblike horns. I think he is about speaking like a dragon. Soon we shall hear his voice more fully; and then those who love God's holy day, can show their love by their works, when the decree goes forth, then we shall be able to discern between him that loveth God, and him that loveth him not. We can rejoice in the truth; but when we look about us and see the many dear ones with no light in their dwellings, it makes me sad; and instead of much rejoicing, I feel like weeping. I often think of Esther, when she fasted and tore her hair, that her nation was so soon to be destroyed; and shall we be very joyful in such a time as this? We have need to seek meekness and righteousness before the decree goes forth; for there is only a "may be" that we shall be hid in the day of the Lord's anger; and if the righteous are scarcely saved, where will the sinner and the ungodly appear? P. D. LAWRENCE.
North Berwick, Me.