PERTH, ONTARIO, MAY 17TH, 1922
TO THE LORD'S GATHERED ONES
DEAR BRETHREN:
Some of us that go about from place to place—though there are things to be very thankful for—cannot but feel the sad spirit of declension—with exceptions—and the lack of spiritual power among us, in these last and Laodicean days! The little felt 'blessing from the reading of God's Word, (indeed in some meetings it is not read together at 'all! and meetings for prayer together almost given up!). And though thank God, some, 'how little manifest blessing, in Gospel preaching!
The state too of the dear children of God's own children exercises us, and calls for special prayer!
Then, while we hold fast the doctrine of the second coming of our Blessed Lord—and there are many signs, "Streaks in the sky," showing "The Day is approaching!"
Must we not confess, how little, like men and women, we are, that are really expecting our Lord may come any moment! And how much we are engrossed with our own things!
Those in Perth and other parts, have responded to the above appeal, and in Ottawa there is response also! So, if the Lord permit, those of us who are able here, purpose to come together each evening, except Saturday of next week, commencing Monday the 22nd, for special prayer and supplication, with humiliation, to plead with our gracious God, that in Mercy and Grace, and in answer to the Intercession of our Great High Priest—we may be revived, restored and refreshed together, by the power of the Holy Ghost, and 'blessing may come upon others elsewhere, and around us too! And the cry, "'Behold the Bridegroom Cometh," go out in fresh power, far and near! Dear Brethren! Would it not please God, if any, where you are—and are able to do so—would come together on the same evening, or some of the same evenings, as we do here, and join in turning to God with us? Who is always wining to answer prayer, and whose word says, "Ask and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full."
When Israel were near the end of their wilderness journey, God refreshed them—and made them to sing, at "Beer!"
We are near the end of our journey down here now, also! May we not ask our gracious God, to refresh us, and others of His own dear people from the refreshment that flows from Christ! Who is, "The Fountain—the deep, sweet well of love!" and make us too, sing with joy—as we near the home and the rest above!
"Our calls may be weak—as a child's timid cry,
Our, hearts feeble plaint, scarce venture on high
Yet Christ For us pleading—we may persevere,
Through Him interceding—our Father will hear!"
Affectionately, yours in Christ,
J. B. DUNLOP.