CAN I GO TO CAMP-MEETING? by T. H. Gibbs

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Tuesday, May 12, 1885

FromAdvent Review and Sabbath Herald, Vol. 62, No. 19

CAN I GO TO CAMP-MEETING?

By T. H. Gibbs

This question doubtless is revolving in the minds of many of our Kansas brethren and sisters, and how it will be answered is an important point; indeed, much depends upon the proper decision of this question. In it may be one of those mysterious turning points of life that decide our destiny for weal or woe. Satan is at work to hinder, magnifying obstacles that may stand in our way. As we view some of the excuses from a worldly stand-point, they seem quite plausible; but “spiritually discerned,” they melt away.

1. The season is unusually late. Our farming brethren probably never were so behind with their work as at the present season. Camp-meeting time will find many in the midst of their planting. To trust this important part of crop work to other hands in order to attend camp-meeting, is going to require an exercise of faith not experienced in every-day life. But, my brethren, God reigns, and the bread of the righteous is sure. Matt. 6:33.

2. Times are hard, and because many have not the means conveniently at hand, the matter is often passed by without any special effort. “Where there is a will there is a way,” is an old saying; and if there is one place above another where it is true, it is in connection with the work of God.

3. The meeting is so far on one side of the State, that some will think they cannot afford to go. If the meeting were farther west, at some of the points desired, each family would have to provide themselves with tents; at Lawrence there is shelter free for thousands. The difference between the price of a tent and the extra railroad fare is quite a saving to those attending.

Dear brethren and sisters, make an effort to come. You can afford to make a sacrifice to attend this yearly gathering of God’s people. What is of more value than the blessing of God? One brother said, “I get a start here that lasts me all the year.” If the way seems hedged up, pray that it may be cleared. Important plans are to be discussed. Advance steps for the work in our State are to be considered. Come and share with the burden bearers in this responsibility. Your counsel is needed. Should we not consider the work of God paramount to all others? When we behold the “perplexity of nations” (Luke 21:25), the near approach of the struggle between labor and capital (James 5), the rapid development of the work long looked for in this country (Rev. 13:14), and the progress of the cause, we have much to inspire us, and give us faith that it is indeed the work of God, and soon to triumph. T. H. Gibbs.