Some of us, even in the mission field, have in the past been content with a very superficial Christian experience, and with what might be called a theoretical assent to the truth. While not exactly satisfied, we felt that we should no doubt get through all right. Perhaps we have felt that the part we have had in our mission enterprises would count as a kind of "merit" in our favor. But I am glad that many of us now see differently. Many lessons from the Scriptures that we have heretofore seen as applying to others, we now accept for ourselves. And in many ways the word of God has become a book of new meaning to us.
I am glad for the deeper experience that has come into my own life during the past year, and for real victories gained. Jesus means more to me now than He ever did before; and some of the privileges that come to us, and which before were considered more as duties and almost as burdens, have come to be a delight. Still with it all I cannot be satisfied, for I am sure that there is yet more to come, and I have a deep longing for an even closer walk and connection with my Lord. For this I am striving.
I believe that what has come into my life has deeply affected my relation to the work. It has materially changed my attitude toward many things, and I believe that Jesus has been able to have His way with a fullness that was not previously possible. Many members of our English church here have entered into this new experience, and it has brought a different spirit into our group of workers. There is a deeper realization of our need, and a more sincere preparation and longing for that outpouring of the Holy Spirit that will bring our work to a speedy and triumphant close. Prayers have been answered and victories won, and we believe that the present year has still greater things in store for us.
We are made happy and filled with courage as we learn that God's children in different parts of the world are entering into this experience of entire dependence on the Saviour; for it leads us to believe that we as a people are really learning our need of complete preparation if we are to meet Jesus without fear when He comes. Surely the time is growing short, and the work must soon be finished.
A Foreign Missionary
