Since 1906 we have actively promoted God's saving health plan and methods in the land of Ind. As I look back over those thirty-two years and the experiences they have brought, I marvel greatly that the Captain of the advent movement ever risked calling my wife and me—a young, inexperienced couple, without abilities or accomplishments—to face that future as He knew it. But whatever has been accomplished was because of Him, not of us. Nothing startling, or of front-page news has happened—just day-by-day encouraging, plodding experiences.
In 1914 we settled at Simla, the citadel of conservatism, officialdom, and bigotry among leaders of non-Christian groups. Simla occupies a position in India comparable to that of Washington, D.C., in the U.S.A. Here we have developed a medical work based on the denominational "blueprint." This work has become known throughout India for its unique nature. Our specialized services have been called for in Caesar's household during quite a period of years, and with this service the message has also found opportunity.
A church company has been established. This group meets in a lovely little chapel situated on the main thoroughfare. In addition to my medical work, I have fathered this church for twenty-four years, witnessing physical and spiritual births, and officiating at weddings. I have seen the coolie's joy in the knowledge of a God who cares for him, and the eyes of a king become dim as he finds himself in the presence of the King of kings.
The never-ceasing surprise is that this happens without any special plan or elaborate equipment. Somehow, out of a conversation while personal medical service is rendered, something takes place, and a soul throws off the veneer and inquires about reality by asking, "What do you do when you pray ?" "How does one talk to God?" "Has Christianity anything definite and reliable to offer more than other faiths?" "What do you think of present world problems?" "How is one to understand the Bible?"
A Hindu group invited me to speak to them on "What My Faith Has Done for Me," and a thousand persons were present to hear my testimony. I told them what my faith had done for my body, mind, and spirit. As I write these lines, there lies before me a request from another group to speak to them on "The Duty of Man in This World According to My Faith." I shall be there to do the best I can.
And so the joyful experience goes on as year follows year toward the great divine event. My dear companion has now closed her service and sleeps in Jesus, but her influence still lives on and carries on.