The international character of our work becomes increasingly apparent to every careful observer. This fact should affect our emphasis and our conduct. Other divisions outside America are becoming the bases of supplies and of men, and more and more we must submerge national backgrounds and enthusiasms.
It matters not whether it be the Stars and Stripes, the Union Jack, the Tricolor, or some other national emblem that stirs our hearts as none other; or whether it be "America," "Britannia," or some other national air that sends the blood racing through its courses—we must remember as never before that we have a message for all men, that is to be given by heralds from all nations. The development and utilization of nationals in every country is to be encouraged. God loves the world. Our message is for the world. And more and more as our cause expands, there must be a blending of talent from all portions of the world field. We must therefore submerge national and racial consciousness and pride. Here at head-Quarters we have British, American, German, and other nationals, Jew and Gentile, white and colored, all working together as one united band. Such is surely God's ideal for us.
We cannot afford to exhibit or to harbor any feeling of superiority or exclusiveness. The operation of this principle is basic in foreign mission enterprise. Though the advent message had its rise in America, it is now the property of God's people throughout the whole world. No one has patent rights upon it. It is neither American, British, nor German. When the missionary goes to foreign soil, let him keep his homeland flag in the bottom of his trunk, He goes not as an Occidental to foreignize the Oriental, the African, or the islander, but to proclaim the eternal good news in its universal application. God's ideal is that His gospel message shall become indigenous, adapted to the distinctive characteristics of the people to whom it is proclaimed.
As missionaries we must never forget the distinction between evangelizing and Europeanizing, Christianizing and civilizing. Knives and forks instead of chopsticks, European clothes instead of the native garb, have naught to do with the great commission, except as moral standards are involved. Let us stick to our text and task.
L.E.F.