| 694 children were not taught religion in any form (as religion is usually understood), neither by precept nor example. We were, however, taught to be honest, just, truthful, industrious, etc.
As I grew up, I became skeptical about the Christian religion; though in my reflective and meditative moods, I always reached this conclusion: "There is a God, or Supreme Being; it is probable that there is a future state; and it may be that we are responsible to God for our deeds in this life ."
When I heard the elders of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, in 1860, and afterwards, it was a new light to me. I began to believe at once, though it was some time before the necessity of obedience came to me with the force of a strong conviction, which occurred under the preaching of Elder John A. McIntosh, of Shelby County, Iowa. After some investigation, thought, and earnest prayer, I was baptized at Nauvoo, Illinois, November 5, 1863, by Elder James Burgess.
Was ordained to the office of teacher December 8, 1866, Z. H. Gurley, Sr., being spokesman. Held this office for more than four years. I then thought, "Right here, in this office, is my life work. If I can fill it as it should be filled, I will have great reason to be thankful." It did not seem possible that I could ever fill a higher office; and I was then, as I am now, afraid of a spirit of ambition and aspiration.
A portion of the years 1868 and 1869 found me unfaithful in my office and membership, but with no thought of abandoning the work. The Rock Creek Branch, of which I was a member, had almost gone to pieces. No meetings were being held, and there was general dissatisfaction with the presiding elder; not as a man, but with his official work.
My brother, D. F. Lambert, nearly five years younger than I, had obeyed the gospel in 1864; and although but thirteen years of age, he was very faithful, and soon became a leading worker in the branch. When I was the most careless and worldly, he seemed to be the most faithful and prayerful, and this had much to do with bringing me to realize that it was foolish and wrong for me to fritter away precious
(page 694) |
