Hiram Edson was part of a group that eagerly anticipated the coming of the Messiah on that fateful day, known as the “Great Disappointment,” which took place on October 22, 1844. On that day, believers gathered in their homes to pray together, remaining calm and patient as they waited. However, when midnight struck and the day they had been so fervently anticipating came to an end, it became painfully clear that Jesus had not returned as promised. This moment marked a time of deep shame and a significant weakening of faith among the believers.
On October 23, as Edison and his friend crossed a cornfield to join their companions who were eagerly waiting for Jesus, a hand suddenly touched his shoulder. When he looked up, it was as though he were in a vision; he witnessed the heavens parting. There stood Christ in the heavenly sanctuary, moving into the holy of holies to begin His work of pleading on behalf of His people, rather than coming to destroy the world with fire as they had been taught. At that moment, Edison understood that God had granted him the answer to their prayers through this vision.
Many people’s faith relied heavily on specific dates and their expectations of what should occur. When events didn’t unfold as anticipated, it led to significant disappointment and heartbreak. Only a small number managed to hold onto a renewed hope, which didn’t stem from past mistakes, but rather from the new insights granted to them by God. It was then that they came to realize that the “holy place” mentioned in Daniel 8:14 refers to the heavenly sanctuary. While they were accurate in their date calculations, their misunderstanding lay in what would take place.
At times, we may feel discouraged and begin to question our beliefs. However, this uncertainty does not reflect a lack of God’s faithfulness. Often, it stems from our struggle to truly grasp the teachings of God’s word as we should. This misunderstanding can lead us to weakness and, ultimately, to falling short. Nevertheless, the Scripture reminds us:
“I am coming quickly; hold on to what you have, and do not lose your crown.”
Revelation 3:11
Beloved, we must anchor ourselves in faith, even when the situation appears beyond our grasp. Rest assured, the light will eventually break through, illuminating our path and revealing what is currently hidden from view, just as it did for Hiram Edson and the disciples of Jesus. Remember, the God of heaven is unwavering in His faithfulness. Trust in Him, and clarity will come.
EN 
RW