In the attempt to make all our efforts, whether of an evangelistic or of a pastoral nature, effective in the communities in which our workers may labor, one point seems often to be overlooked—the establishing of friendly contacts with men in authority. When a tent is pitched or a tabernacle erected or a hall hired, there is a perfectly natural curiosity aroused not only among the citizens but among the officials of the community. It is to be expected that those who have charge of preserving order will wonder what will be preached and whether the influence of the meetings will be for good or otherwise.
I believe that every man who moves into a new locality would profit greatly by calling upon the mayor and chief of police at the very earliest possible opportunity. Visiting these men leaves a favorable impression, because those who plan any questionable procedure naturally do not call upon the civil officers. Furthermore, simply calling and introducing oneself, without seeking a favor, increases the good impression.
Men who hold public office are entitled to courteous treatment at the hands of all citizens. Even in those cases where the officials are not the best representatives of civil government that might be chosen, their offices command some deference and respect. The courtesy that well-bred people show in social contacts should be manifested toward those who represent us in civil affairs.
If the new preacher will call upon the mayor and the chief of police, and assure them that he believes in law and order, that they can always depend upon him to teach good citizenship and to be found on the side of right at all times, he will leave a favorable impression.
It is the business of the civil officials to know about the public activities of every person in the community. Let us not leave it to them to find out about us through those who may not approve of our work. - That is unfair both to the work itself and to the officials.
It is said that on one occasion Charles Lamb, speaking of a certain person, said, "I hate him." When someone asked, "Do you know him?" his answer was, "No, if I did, I could not hate him." This illustrates the value of personal contacts.
Public officials generally learn quickly how to judge the people they meet. Every effort should be made to be perfectly natural in interviews with these men. One does not need to take time to explain about how good his character is or how excellent a preacher he is. A simple statement concerning his good intentions to co-operate in law and order and a cordial invitation td attend the services sometime are enough. Such a contact will pay liberal dividends.
If one were inspired from no better than a selfish motive, it would pay. When it is remembered that not only may we be benefited by the friendliness of these officials, but we may, through such contacts, lead them to our message, the wisdom of following this course becomes apparent.
It should never be forgotten that many public servants lead lonely lives. All too often they see or hear from citizens only when a favor is sought or a complaint is to be made. A sincere respect for men in public life and an honest effort to be friendly in our contacts with them, are ways in which we may forward the work of God in the earth.
