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Waldenses
49
Eagerly did the Vaudois missionary unfold to the inquiring mind
the precious truths of the gospel. Cautiously he produced the care-
fully written portions of the word of God. It was his greatest joy to
give hope to the conscientious, sin-stricken soul, who could see only
a God of vengeance, waiting to execute justice. With quivering lip
and tearful eye did he, often on bended knees, open to his brethren
the precious promises that reveal the sinner’s only hope. Thus the
light of truth penetrated many a darkened mind, rolling back the
cloud of gloom, until the Sun of Righteousness shone into the heart
with healing in his beams. Some portions of Scripture were read
again and again, the hearer desiring them to be often repeated, as if
he would assure himself that he had heard aright. Especially was
the repetition of these words eagerly desired: “The blood of Jesus
Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” [
1 John 1:7
.] “As Moses
lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man
be lifted up, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but
have eternal life.” [
John 3:14, 15
.]
Many were undeceived in regard to the claims of Rome. They
saw how vain is the mediation of men or angels in behalf of the
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sinner. As the true light dawned upon their minds, they exclaimed
with rejoicing, “Christ is my priest; his blood is my sacrifice; his
altar is my confessional.” They cast themselves wholly upon the
merits of Jesus, repeating the words, “Without faith it is impossible
to please God.” [
Hebrews 11:6
.] “There is none other name under
heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” [
Acts 4:12
.]
The assurance of a Saviour’s love seemed too much for some of
these poor tempest-tossed souls to realize. So great was the relief
which it brought, such a flood of light was shed upon them, that they
seemed transported to Heaven. Their hand was laid confidingly in
the hand of Christ; their feet were planted upon the Rock of Ages.
All fear of death was banished. They could now covet the prison and
the fagot if they might thereby honor the name of their Redeemer.
In secret places the word of God was thus brought forth and
read, sometimes to a single soul, sometimes to a little company who
were longing for light and truth. Often the entire night was spent in
this manner. So great would be the wonder and admiration of the
listeners that the messenger of mercy was not infrequently compelled
to cease his reading until the understanding could grasp the tidings