From the commencement of our meeting together we have always made an endeavour to give a "round-ness" to the church's work and witness. Although few in number we believed it necessary to give some degree of support to the work of the gospel overseas, be engaged in evangelism at home, and take an interest in the spiritual well-being of little children. As the years have passed we are thankful that God has caused all the various workings of the church to increase.
We are ever-conscious of our many failings and acts of self and sin; but must also acknowledge His grace that has brought us safe thus far. Our thanks go out to the Saviour for the degree of "maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bonds of peace" over the years of the church's life. We have had our "fighting's without and fears within:" our disappointments, heartaches and perplexities. But on the whole, the good has so outweighed the bad that it would be sinful not to "rejoice in the Lord" in all ways. Over the past number of years we have had much cause to return our thanks to Him; for souls saved, our hearts warmed and challenged, and others being added to the work of the gospel amongst us, bringing with them their zeal and their experience of the Lord.
As to the future, who can really say what that holds for any of us? One of the most searching words that our Saviour ever spoke is the one concerning His finding faith on the earth when He returns. "When the Son of Man returns, shall he find the faith on the earth." If, in His will, we remain "unto the coming of the Lord," may we be found faithful; if He chooses to "call us home" before that, may we depart, faithful to His name and in His cause.
| "Tis Jesus, the first and the last, Whose Spirit shall guide us safe home; We'll praise Him for all that is past, |
