Finding the Sabbath-Keeping People
By Martha Ashbaugh
Bro. Smith : I have long wished to say something to the dear brethren and sisters, but have been such a Laodicean that I had neither light nor liberty; but I can truly say with David, it has been like fire shut up in my bones. In the month of March, 1856, there were two Nos. of the Review found by a little Catholic boy near my residence and handed to me, which I read, and was much interested in the article, "When shall the Nations be dashed in pieces." I sent for the paper, and have read it carefully ever since. In reading of the rise and progress of Adventism, I found it to correspond with my own experience on the same subject at the same time, concerning the shortness of time and the end of all things; and I also believed there must be a people that would come up to a higher standard of holiness, but I did not know that they were the Millerites, as they are called here. By reading and comparing my own experience with theirs, I believe they are the people. I have kept the Sabbath since last Spring, yet have to regret that I conferred so long with flesh and blood before I commenced. I can say of a truth that flesh and blood hath not revealed these things to me, but my Father which is in heaven. I wish to say to the preaching brethren, Have not some of you a message for us here? I say to you as the Macedonian said to Paul, "Come over and help us." Come to Dundee and inquire. Here is the seat of Universalism, and of course, of Spiritualism, and there is need of a physician. Dear brethren and sisters, may the law of the Lord be perfected in the conversion of our souls, may his testimonies make us wise unto salvation, his statutes abide with us to the rejoicing of our hearts, and may his commandments ever enlighten our eyes, and the fear of the Lord endure with us forever. His judgments are true and righteous altogether. Pray for your unworthy friend and sister, who is striving for eternal life. Martha Ashbaugh. Dundee, Ills., Dec. 13th, 1857.