Chapter 2—Conversion
In March, 1840, William Miller visited Portland, Maine, and gave
a course of lectures on the second coming of Christ. These lectures
produced a great sensation, and the Christian church on Casco Street,
where the discourses were given, was crowded day and night. No wild
excitement attended the meetings, but a deep solemnity pervaded the
minds of those who heard. Not only was a great interest manifested
in the city, but the country people flocked in day after day, bringing
their lunch baskets, and remaining from morning until the close of the
evening meeting.
In company with my friends, I attended these meetings. Mr. Miller
traced down the prophecies with an exactness that struck conviction
to the hearts of his hearers. He dwelt upon the prophetic periods, and
brought many proofs to strengthen his position. Then his solemn and
powerful appeals and admonitions to those who were unprepared, held
the crowds as if spellbound.
A Spiritual Revival
Special meetings were appointed where sinners might have an
opportunity to seek their Saviour and prepare for the fearful events
soon to take place. Terror and conviction spread through the entire city.
Prayer meetings were established, and there was a general awakening
among the various denominations; for they all felt more or less the
influence that proceeded from the teaching of the near coming of
Christ.
When sinners were invited forward to the anxious seat, hundreds
responded to the call; and I, among the rest, pressed through the crowd
and took my place with the seekers. But there was in my heart a feeling
that I could never become worthy to be called a child of God. I had
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often sought for the peace there is in Christ, but I could not seem to
find the freedom I desired. A terrible sadness rested on my heart. I
could not think of anything I had done to cause me to feel sad; but it
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