LETTERS by L. Maxson

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 8, 1860

LETTERS.

By L. Maxson

"Then they that feared the Lord, spake often one to another."

From Bro. Maxson.

Bro. Smith: It is but a short time since I first saw or knew that the Advent Review and Sabbath Herald existed. In perusing its pages I find that my views and those advocated in the paper in the main agree. The first meeting that I have had the privilege of attending, was held in the town of Willing on the 8th and 9th of October last, sixteen miles from my place of residence. It was one of those blessed refreshing seasons that I had not for a long time before enjoyed. I live in a neighborhood where there is but one, and that a dear sister, of like precious faith; although there are others that are partially on that ground. I can say that I receive with pleasure through the medium of your paper from time to time the cheering intelligence communicated by the letters of the brethren and sisters who are scattered far and wide from each other throughout the length and breadth of our land. I feel to thank God that there is a people that are striving to keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and are "looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ," "when he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe." I would willingly add my mite to the columns of the paper if I could say anything that would serve to advance that blessed cause for which my Saviour died and rose again, and ever liveth to make intercession for his dear despised followers. My birth and education was at a time far back and very different from the present day, where a thorough education is put within the reach of almost all the rising generation. But I think that God sometimes makes use of the weak things of this world to confound the things that are mighty. I think I can say with Moses that I would choose rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than enjoy the pleasures of sin, or the applause of a popular, worldly church for a season. Dear brethren and sisters in Christ, strive to be faithful in the cause of our blessed Saviour. You have one passage of scripture in particular that you may claim in your favor. "They that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." Be patient therefore under tribulation, and our trials and troubles here will only make us richer there, when we arrive at home. The race is worth running; the prize at the end of the race is well worth winning. May we ever be looking forward towards the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus; to that crown of righteousness which the Lord the righteous Judge will give in that day to all that love his appearing.

May we all possess vital piety, pure religion, and be volunteer soldiers in the cause of Christ, faithful stewards and laborers in the vineyard of our Lord, and lights to the world to lead sinners to the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world. I think I can say, although passing through trials and afflictions, I do feel thankful to the Lord from day to day for the light of his countenance, the influence of his Spirit, and the evidence that I feel of my acceptance with him through Christ my Redeemer. May we all be wholly consecrated to his service, and his will be done in us and by us, and we hold out faithful to the end; for which may we ever pray.

L. MAXSON.

Alfred Center, N. Y.