There is a new book out by Dr. Lewis Mumford which our workers would do well to read. It is called "Faith for Living" and is a most able presentation of the root causes back of the things we see in the world today. Among other things mentioned in this thought-creating book, is what the author calls "the economy of sacrifice." He stresses very strongly the great sacrifice that must be made by all in this country in the near future or, indeed, just now. By economy we mean, "thrifty and careful administration ; management without loss or waste; the system of rules by which anything is managed."
There is no doubt that in the matter of saving and self-denial we, in America, should today think in entirely different terms. Let us remember the sacrifices that are being made in Europe. What have not countries like France, or Norway, or Poland, or Rumania, had to give up? What sacrifice indeed are not the people of all these lands making, to say nothing of the Far East !
Unfortunately, with many in North America an idea prevails that, even though prices may rise and taxes may increase, we shall be able to keep much the same standard of life, and have the same amount to spend, in the years to come, as we have now. Very few think it possible that they may again have to do without their automobile or mechanical refrigerator, their electric washer, or even more necessary things. But there are days of real privation ahead.
The higher cost of living—now constantly mounting—will compel us to be more saving. But that saving must not be made at the expense of foreign missions. We should explore and practice a simpler way of living, denying ourselves and giving even more to save the lost.
For Adventists, this idea of sacrifice has a meaning all its own. We are, on the whole, a grateful people. We appreciate that the Lord has been most generous to mankind. He has given us an abundance of good things. He wants us to have what we need for ourselves and for our children. The Lord teaches us economy, and we emphasize the spirit of self-denial for the sake of others. We often state that Adventists in America should make large donations to missions out of gratitude for the blessings of peace and freedom, knowing that the Lord has given us these many great privileges in order that we may bring the gospel light to those in darkness. But, in spite of this, there is danger that we forget how the Lord's cause is in greater need at this time, than it has ever before, of increased financial support.
Many years ago the Week of Sacrifice was begun, and it has proved a great blessing. It is understood that we ask all our members everywhere during this week to contribute one week's wage or income to foreign missions. The plan also is that all denominational employees, whether in conference, mission, or institution, give the equivalent of a week's salary to missions. Now, it is true that this is not compulsory. God's work is not to be by forced labor—only volunteers are wanted by the Lord. The mission task is not drudgery—it is a freewill service born of love. The state of the world, the shortness of time, and the urgent need is a stronger incentive to sacrifice than any resolution could be.
Although those who lead out in the work overseas, as well as those who support the work at home, may find the burdens heavy, yet we are grateful for these burdens, and gladly carry them because we love the Lord Jesus. We have been greatly cheered as we have seen the hearty response of our people in adopting this Week of Sacrifice plan. There is a distinct prophecy concerning the church in the last days, which reads like this: "Thy people shall be willing in the day of Thy power. Ps. 110:3.
We write this with the prayer in our hearts that our workers everywhere this year will. without fail, give a week's salary to missions, and also that many of our other members will give liberally. We believe that our ministers should preach at least one Sabbath in November on the need of sacrifice, and the blessings of giving in this great hour. We may not always have the opportunities we have today. and we must not fail the Lord in this crisis hour.
