E. L. BARR by E. L. Barr

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 4, 1858

E. L. BARR

By E. L. Barr

From Bro. Barr.

BRO. SMITH: The interest was such at the close of the Bristol conference, that it seemed to be duty to continue the evening meetings through the following week. The interest continued through the week. Several were convinced that we have the truth, especially on the subject of the Sabbath. May the Lord strengthen them to walk in the light while they have it, and give them to see how much easier it will be to bear the cross in keeping the Commandments of God and the Faith of Jesus and live, than to go with the popular current, and finally bear the wrath of an offended God and perish. Sabbath, meeting at Waltham—a day of suffering to the church, especially those that were deeply anxious that every wrong should be righted, and all should so heed the counsel of the faithful and true Witness, that none should be left to meet the fearful doom of the lukewarm. In the evening, while praying for the sick, the blessing of God rested down upon us, and those that had suffered through the day were now made to rejoice in view of the great love and care God still has for his poor afflicted saints.

First-day, evening meeting at Bro. Gardner's. Second-day, P. M. we repaired to the water side, where we again enjoyed the gracious smiles of our dear Redeemer, while one more of his disciples was planted in the likeness of his death, with the joyful hope of the likeness of his resurrection. In the evening the church assembled for the purpose of attending to the ordinances designed by the great Head of the church to keep the saints humble and separate from the world.

Another effort was made to have every wrong righted, so that all could participate in the same; but the desirable object was not gained. It was finally thought best for those that were in unison and were determined to walk in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless, to move forward and leave others to come along when they got right. With this resolution God was well pleased.

The powers of darkness began to give back. Light began to break in upon the saints. Hard hearts began to melt. Tears flowed freely. Humble confessions were made right to the point, and the oppressed went free ere we reached the point of commemorating the dying love of our compassionate Redeemer. A perfect victory was gained in all the house, and all were prepared to participate in the same, in hope of soon seeing him as he is, and drinking wine in the kingdom of God.

In order to share in this great blessing we must get all right soon and keep right until the Master calls for the faithful servants. No time to backslide now, no time to gratify self, no time to be idle. Remember we are now having our last chance to get ready for the return of the King of glory, and if this time is not rightly improved, all is lost for ever. May God help us to see it and realize it, and work faithfully while the day lasts.

E. L. BARR

South Hardwick, Vt., Jan. 21st, 1853.