Disappointments

Disappointments!

In a previous "Post" I referred to the sad decline in the Assemblies in connection with the introduction of shorter meetings. This gives those who serve in the Gospel and in ministry less opportunity to express what the Spirit of God has laid upon their hearts; and it is frustrating! When contention is the "short attention span" of visitor to the various gatherings. This is invariably a reference to the "lost" who attend a Gospel service. But it appears to me more often than not that it is the saints who want to shorten the meetings! Latterly I was asked to speak for a shorter time as there was to be a cup of tea after the meeting! This is not an isolated case in my experience; at least five Assemblies where I have the privilege to preach/teach have cut the length of their meetings, particularly in connection with the Gospel preaching.

                                                                                                                                       But this is not all that disappoints. I received a reminder from a "corresponding" brother that I am responsible for the preaching of the Gospel on an approaching Lords' Day. Please allow me to quote, "the temporary ban on the prodigal son, good Samaritan and serpents on poles has not yet been lifted," his exact words!

                                                                                                      Thirdly and finally, at least for now D.V., it breaks my heart to hear of the closure of more of the Assemblies, and with it the absence of any assembly testimony in various districts, some covering huge areas saturated with lost souls and needy saints. In addition, so many who maintained by the grace of God,a witness for the Lord Jesus as gathered to His name alone, have resorted to changing their peculiar character; opting for an evangelical church stance, with a paid pastor! How a believer who has enjoyed days of heaven on earth as "calling Him to mind" Lords' Day by Lords' Day, can give up this infinite privilege and portion is beyond the limits of my understanding. I know that in past times, both latterly and recently, saints have confessed their great loss at having abandoned the position that once occupied.

                                                                                         It is of little account to disappoint a mere believer like me; perhaps a little more grievous to disappoint many of the saints; but how much more is it a grief to the One who requested "this do in remembrance of ME!"