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the preciousness of the experience they have gained in working for
others.
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The Church a Sacred Trust
When Christ ascended, He left the church and all its interests as
a sacred trust to His followers. And the work of the church is not to
be left to the minister alone, or to a few leading men. Every member
should feel that he has entered into a solemn covenant with the Lord
to work for the best interests of His cause at all times and under all
circumstances. Each should have some part to act, some burden to
bear. If all church-members felt an individual responsibility, greater
advancement would be made in spiritual things. The solemn burden of
responsibility resting upon them would lead them to seek God often
for strength and grace.
The real character of the church is measured, not by the high pro-
fession she makes, not by the names enrolled on her books, but by what
she is actually doing for the Master, by the number of her persevering,
faithful workers. Personal, unselfish effort will accomplish more for
the cause of Christ than can be wrought by sermons or creeds.
Let ministers teach church-members that in order to grow in spiritu-
ality, they must carry the burden that the Lord has laid upon them,—the
burden of leading souls into the truth. Those who are not fulfilling
their responsibility should be visited, prayed with, labored for. Do not
lead the people to depend upon you as ministers; teach them rather that
they are to use their talents in giving the truth to those around them.
In thus working they will have the co-operation of heavenly angels,
and will obtain an experience that will increase their faith, and give
them a strong hold on God.
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