Extracts from Letters

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 17, 1860

Extracts from Letters.

Sister L. E. P. Garretson writes from Knoxville, Iowa: "We are striving to keep all the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and feel that we receive blessings from heaven for so doing. We see no reason to be discouraged or dismayed at the opposition we daily meet, nor at the thousands of false reports which are going the rounds over our country about us. Satan and his angels are at work with renewed vigor to trample the third angel's message under their feet. But thanks to God, these blessed truths are his and will prevail. This work cannot be overthrown. The Knoxville church now numbers between 75 and 100 members, who are striving as much as in them lies, to fulfill their duty. The cries of this little company are daily going to heaven that God may speed his work, and that more laborers may be sent out into his vineyard to carry the warning to the hearts and homes of those who have not yet received it. I believe that the day is not far distant when these glorious truths will be borne to all the honest ones that they may turn in with the overtures of mercy to seek salvation through Jesus our Saviour. Our sister church in Pleasantville, twelve miles from this place, is in a prosperous condition, leaning on the strong arm of the Lord, who is mighty and able to impart strength to all who will diligently seek him in every time of need.

"The last call of mercy which is now sounding will soon be hushed. Are we prepared for this warning to cease? Brethren and sisters, I greatly fear that there will be some who are called out on the message unprepared for that day that is so near at hand. We cannot have that calm, peaceful hope of eternal life that Christ's followers should have, unless we come up to a fuller sense of our duty. May God aid us in knowing where and how we can work for him. There are many of us who could dispense with the little luxuries of life in order to send this message to our friends who are yet out of the ark of safety. Will we do it? Wherever our lots may be cast in this life, let us show to the world that we are looking for Jesus to appear, lest we also be overtaken as by a thief in the night."