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THANK GOD FOR CHRISTMAS Thank God for Christmas. Yes, that’s what I said. Christmas, whatever the world has made out of it, to me still means God manifest in the flesh, I thank God for the “good tidings of great joy” first proclaimed by the angel of the Lord on that night so long ago. You and I and all who have experienced the grace of God owe it to this event first made known to the shepherds on a Judean hillside. What better time to proclaim the gospel of saving faith in Christ than during Christmas? This is a time when hearts are especially open and receptive to the good news because they have been conditioned by the "Christmas spirit”. The Christmas carols, the gifts and giving can all work together to open doors for the gos pel. These are days when people, “think” Christmas and even though there is much ignorance as to the real meaning of Christmas, we are provided with a launching pad. Here we can take lesson from Philip the Evangelist. When the Ethiopian eunuch said, “Of whom speaketh the prophet this?” Phillip began at the same scripture and “preached unto him Jesus”. One of the laws of teaching is to begin with that which is known and proceed to the unknown. Christmas is the “known” factor in this case. I suppose you could not find a person who is not familiar with the term, even though ignorant of the message. From this point we can bear witness to a Christ who not only was bom but who lived, worked miracles, died, rose and is coming back again. This Christmas, instead of deploring the excesses and overcommercialization let’s take advantage of opportuni ties to capitalize on them and preach Christ to a sinsick world.
MO'nVES IN GIVING “What do people who have everything give to each other at Christmas?” is an expression I recently over heard. After mulling this over in my mind for a while I was forced to come to the conclusion that maybe we have the wrong perspective altogether when it comes to Christmas giving. The wise men you will notice did not give gifts to each other but to Christ, And it was not a gfit that we would class as “useful,” but was a gift of humble adoration and praise, gold, frankincense and myrrh. Might it thus not be more correct to give .gifts to Christ at Christmas then to each other? There are many opportunities to give to Christ. In Matthew 25 Jesus says, “. . . inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Even a cup of cold water may have its reward. If we all gave to Christ as much as we spend on gifts for oui selve.s this Christmas what rejoicing it could bring to many in all parts of the world. Some would receive
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the gilt of eternal life, the naked would be clothed and the hungry fed. Churches would have money for much needed extension, (Mission Societies could send forth more missionaries. Gifts thus would have a real meaning, and we would have a reward in heaven. As it is most of our modern day giving is recompensed on earth. We give where we expect to get something in return. We invite to our banquets and socials those from whom we benefit or expect to benefit leaving those who are in real need outside. “If you only love those who love you,” Christ said, “what credit is that to you. Even sin ners love those who love them. And if you lend only where you expect to be repaid, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to each other if they are to be repaid in full.” Luke 6:32-34 (NEB) Yes, we give Christmas hampers, (filled out of our abundance.) They will bring cheer to many homes and we would certainly not discourage this form of giving. But on the other hand isn’t there often more that these dear folks need? The Christmas package is fine but should be followed up by real and genuine friendship and desire to render real spiritual aid. Shall we further more also be careful in delivering Christmas hampers that we do not manifest a superior attitude to the reci pient for what we have, we too have but received. Why not, instead of having a Christmas banquet in our church for ourselves this year make a banquet and invite those for whom nothing is prepared otherwise? Why could not the Christian employer call his employees together and propose a supper for the outcasts of society, instead of among themselves (Or in addition to). Why could not each family have over another family, not as privileged as they are, and share with them of their abundance? May the foregoing have given us some thought or direction that our giving should take this year. —D.S.
PLEASE NOTE: As has been the custom in the past there will be only one (enlarged) issue oi the Messenger in December. Reporters this issue: Steinbach, Mrs. Helena Dueck; Mafeking, Mr. Henry Buhler; PeUy, Ml’s. Vivian Anflnson; Ridgewood, Miss Elsie Plett; Prairie Rose, Mr. Har old Plett.
Cover Photo: Luoma Photos. Page 8, Ken Barkman
The Messenger Official organ, in the English language, of the EVANGELICAL WENNONITE CON FERENCE. Published bi-weekly under the auspices of the E.M.C. BOARD OF PUBLI CATION AND EDUCATION. Editor, David K. Schellenberg, Box 25, Station "F", Winnipeg 5. Manitoba. A11 new subscriptions and change of address should be sent to Mr. Abe Kia* ssen. Box 1447, Steinbach, Man. Subscription price to non-members $1.00 per year. All E.M.C. members pay through the church. Authorized as second class mall, Ppst Office Department, Ottawa, and for payment of postage In cash.
The Messenger
The Other Bethlehem 'This Christmas time, the thoughts of millions throughout the world will turn to Bethlehem and, on Christmas Eve, thousands of pilgrims and tourists, from far and near, will flock there to celebrate Christmas in the place where Christ was born.. They will find Bethelehem in a gay, festive mood, with the music of bands and the cry of vendors adding to the holiday atmosphere. Thousands will gather in the brightly illuminated Manger Square, the main square of Bethlehem, facing the Church of the Nativity, the vast, rambling structure that stands over the place where Je sus was born. A fortu.nate few will have tickets to gain admission to the church—or perhaps the Church of St. Catherine, from where each year the Christmas mass is broadcast around the world together with the chimes of the Christmas bells from their square, stubby bell-tower.
Others will gather in the Field of the Shepherds, to sing carols to look across the valley at the little town, as shepherds did from that same spot almost 2,000 years before. Put there is another Bethlehem, one that few of the pilgrims or tourists will see., A few steps from the Church of the Nativity, just a stone's throw from the joyous festivity of Manger Square, is the oldest quarter of Bethlehem, It is a maze of narrow, winding alleys, of dark, dank passageways, and of masonry crumblings with age., This is the Bethlehem of the refugees. Like most other towns and cities in Jordan, Bethlehem received an in flux of refugees in 1948, following the flight of the Arabs from that part of Palestine that became Israel. To day, of Bethlehem’s total population of 16,000, about one quarter are re fugees. In addition, another 10,500 re
fugees are living in the three UNRWA camps near the town, making a total of almost 15,000 refugees living in and around Bethlehem. A large number of those living with in the town have found shelter in the old section near the Church of the Nativity, where many live in “homes” that are little better than holes in the wall. In many cases the accommoda tion provided in the nearby camps is better than that found by the refugees in the town, even though the average camp hut provides only one small room in which four or five people must live, eat and sleep. For many of the refugees in and around Bethlehem, life is a constant struggle; a struggle to find work in the town or in the barren, rocky hiUs which surround it; a struggle to eke out the basic food rations distributed by UNRWA, and a struggle to main tain their dignity after 16 years of dependence on charity. In many cases, it is only UNRWA’s assistance that makes the difference between sur vival and hunger, and that provides, through its programmes of education and training the only spark of hope for the future generation. The Bethlehem of the refugee is a stark contrast to the gay Bethlehem that will be seen by tourists and pil grims this Christmas. When thoughts turn to Bethlehem during this Christmas season, it would be well to remember not only the joyous event that took place there almost 2,000 years ago, but also the tragedy and the need that exist to day in the other Bethlehem
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INDIA
by Vernon Reimer
22 Girish Chandra Bose Road Calcutta 14, India November 13, 1965 “O taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man that trusteth in Him." Warm Christian greetings from India again. We arrived in Cal cutta on the evening of October 31 and were glad to get back in the work heie. Our Pax fellows and staff had carried on very well but there is still a lot of work for u.s to catch up on. The children started school right the first day and were also quite happy. One of their happy experences at home wa.s to attend school for about five
weeks. Nor did we have much time to sit around after arrival. One of the advantages of a short furlough is that you do not lose touch with your work very much and can plunge right back in without having to do too much adjusting. While our short stay in Canada was not always physically relaxing it was certainly spiritually refreshing to meet the many friends, relatives, and co labourers in Christ and to sense the prayer, and financial support and in terest in our work here. This is a strength and encouragement to us, and we want to express our- sincere appreciation to you for it. We again want to emphasize that this is our work together—you at home providing the necessary support and we here repre sentatives and ambassadors of Christ and our churches at home. We are looking to the Lord for continued blessing and effectiveness in the work. After leaving Manitoba on Oct. 11 we spent a week with Helens folks in Alberta. We then stopped in B.C. for an evening service before going on to Los Angeles. The Paul Barkman’s gave us the use of their car in L.A. and we spent a delightful time with the children in Disneyland one day. After LjA,. we stopped for a day in Honolulu. In Tokyo we stayed with the Clifford Reimers — formerly our neighbours in Landmark — who are missionaries with the New Life League. In Hong Kong I spent some time observing the MGC programs and we also did some shopping—in deed quite a shoppers paradise (but airlines weight allowances still remain the same). Enroute to Vietnam we stopped overnight at Manila and met former friends of ours. We spent two days in Saigon with regards to an expanded MCC refugee relief project and found the city very congested with so much military personnel and equipment. At night we heard mortar fire and during the day saw over a hundred helicopters and fighter planes heading north—very vivid reminders that darkness still rules in the hearts of many. We had no visas for Vietnam and could only stay for 72 hours. Upon arrival we found there were no seats for us on a plane for which we held confirmations, till we had to leave, so the airline sent us to Singapore in stead of directly to Calcutta. We ar rived a day later than planned and missed the welcoming party of friends and staff who had gone to the airport
Vernon and Helen Reimer and family
to meet us. This last week we had a meeting of delegates of the five different Mennonite groups in India. One of the main points of discussion was the plan ning of a team visit to the different ar eas to help in the program of evan gelism and make it more effective. The other was that of planning to do emergency relief work in central India where a number of our churches are located. There has been a comiplete crop failure and great distress because of lack of food. Ordinarily, this area is a surplus area supplying other states with rice. We would ask you to remember these people and also the churches as they seek ways and means of helping Christians and non Christ ians alike in this time of difficulty. Thank you again for the words of encouragement and prayer support. We are confident the Lord will have stores of blessings for you as you are faithful also in your prayers and gifts for the many in India who are in such great physical and spiritual need. Since we will not be writing again before Christmas, we wish you a blessed Christmas season. Urgent The British and Foreign Bible So ciety of London says that the govern ment of Ghana has recently placed an urgent order for 500,000 Bibles to be used for distribution in schools throughout the country, (Moody Monthly)
The Messenger
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Christmas Greetings
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Congo Christmas! Our expectations run high. Hope, Faith and Charilen, who have been away at school since early September, are expected home Decem ber 17th. We’ll share the fun of bak ing and decorating cookies. While these are laid out to cool the ants will get into them. People at the door sensing the excitement of holiday pre parations will wait around for a treat. Indeed every day dozens of people come to our door. Some, like the un dernourished dispensary patients, come for the U.S. surplus milk and cracked wheat. Others come for a variety of items including salt mango fruits, fish hooks, clothes, pictures, money, jobs, advice, use of the car, used razor blades, tracts, and a peek at Grace’s dolls. The attitude of these customers reminds us again and again of the New Year cookie rhyme. They stand still if you give one things With two they will leave reluctantly. But if your reaUy generous they will invoke God’s blessings on you. Christmas eve there will be a pro gram. All ambulant children and grown-ups from miles around will crowd into church. They love enacting the story of Luke chapter two. A pop ular exercise among the young folk ia sprinting on all fours like the human sheep do in the play. Our people celebrate by decorating their homes with flowers. Our house too will wear fresh cut, white gar denias, pastel dahlies, bright zinia and flaming poinsettas. There is no gift exchange among African Christ ians. but those fathers who can afford it will sew new clothes for the family. And of course they bring a special, big-sized offering to church, be it manioc roots, peanuts onions or mon ey. Our own gift exchange depends a lot on what’s available in the stores and on how the mail gets through. December 10, 1965
CHRISTMAS 1965, KAI
By Mrs.Ben Eic
For instance, last year we ordered gifts from across the ocean. Grandma mailed them in October. They arrived at our house in April (on the same plane that brought Grandma for a visit) But to get gifts in April makes as much sense doesn’t it? Besides we feel a little self conscious to get too many presents. The girls usually find a crayon or a picture to give to the wide-eyed children peering in at the windows. Christmas morning church bells
will summon the worshippers. (Few people have clocks). If it rains we’U wait for the skies to clear, because you can’t hear a woid in our cealingless, aluminum roofed chapel with raindrops dancing on it. Looking over the audience you will see some of the colorful flanelette squares that were sent out as layettes—but have turned kerchief or hat for the occa
sion., You’ll also see clothes sent out by M.C.C. Refugees of the recent rebe’lion and other needy families are v/taring them. The forty orphans, each bigger one holding a littler one, will march up to the front seats as proud as peacocks in their missionary bar rel outfits. It will be packed auditor ium with no soundproof baby rooms. Quite possibly Pastor Mark wiU be called on to speak. His preaching is loud and clear and emphatic. And we pray that each one will receive a blessing. Christmas will be celebrated in ci ties on the mission station and in the remotest village where Christ has been proclaimed and received. That is how our finite minds expect it to be. But . . . many years ago, at Christ mas, Jesus came . . . unexpectedly. If He returns this Christmas, would His coming be unexpected again?
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"And He said unto them. These are the words which I spake unto you while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the Prophets and in the Psalms concerning Me. " CHRIST IN THE PSALMS 24; 44 P.K.Bartel Another Advent season is upon us. As has happened for generations, we have heard the marvelous story of our wonderful Saviour. No doubt many will read and hear this marvel lous account anew, and be blessed thereby. O, that it would warm our hearts as it happened on the Emmaus road, as the Lord of life unfolded these eternal truths to His disciples out of the books of Moses, the Pro phets. and the Psalms. (Luke 24: 26, 27, 44). As we study the Messianic Psalms, the revelation of Christ’s incarnation, suffering, death and resurrection are clearly seen. Th incarnation boldly unfolds itself, as we study the second chapter of Psalms, verse 7, it reveals the Eternal decree of the Father, “the Lord hath said unto me, 'Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.” The Son answering back (Psa. 40:6-8) Sacrifice and offering Thou didst not desire; Mine ears hast Thou opened, (or as Hebrews 10:5 puts it “but a body hast Thou prepared Me.”) burnt of fering hast 'Thou not required. Then said I. Lo, I come; in the vol ume of the book it is written of Me, I delight to do Thy wiU, O my God.” He emptied Himself of all heavenly glo ries, and is heralded by the Angels as the one who brings “Peace and Good will to men on earth.” But we cannot stop at the manger, let us move on, in the 22nd Psalm we see Him as the one who was made
sin for us “that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.” Here we see one of the most complete Prophetic records of the sufferings of Christ, “My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?” This the darkest hour. He who is God was forsaken of God. What a mystery? 'These very words came from His blessed lips as the darkness enshrouded the Cross. Here we come face to face with the unsearchable depths of His work as the sin bearer, upon whom there was laid the iniquity of us all. In this darkened hour, forsaken of God, the sun refusing to shine no Angel ap peared to strengthen Him, the full penalty had to be paid. On the cross when at last the dark ness gone, the suffering ended, the work done the blessed One said "It is finished.” As we come to Verse 22 we find Him no more alone but in the midst of His brethren, and we behold Him as the triumphant One. On the day of His resurrection He gives the joy ful Message, "go tell My brethren . .” John 20:17. In Psa. 23 we have the great Shepherd, "brought again from the dead through the blood of the ev erlasting covenant.” (Heb. 13:10) ten derly cares for the sheep; in Psa. 24 the Chief Shepherd appears as King of glory to own and reward the sheep (1 Peter 5.4) Shall we at all times be ready for the second Advent, than to acclaim Him as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
CHRIST MANIFESTED
John P. Loewen The people which sat in darkness saw a great light, and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. Matt. 4:16. Not the buying and giving of gifts nor the setting of decorated trees, neither the preparing of dinners and banquets, but the love of God, mani fested to the World, by the lowly birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, almost two thousand years ago in the town of Bethlehem is the meaning of Christmas.
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God in His infinite love for lost hu manity had promised a Saviour to them. His only Son being appointed before the foundation of the world, became the instrument in the great salvation. Thus Christ was manifested to the world by the virgin birth in the town of Bethlehem in the land of Judea, bringing light and truth to those straying in darkness. What a glorious message to the shepherds who were watching their flocks by
night, what a comfort for Simeon who patiently waited for the consolation of Israel, the manifestation and nature of this salvation was such that even the angels desired to look into, I Peter 1:12. Salvation truly has been revealed through iJesus Christ, for he shall, and he does save His people from their sins, bringing light to those in darkness, and liberty to those in bond age of sin. Has Christ with His sav ing power also become manifest in our personal life? Will the love of God revealed through Christ Jesus, also grip our hearts this Christmas season? or will we simply join the present trend with it’s mad rush, which cannot but leave the heart emp ty and void of this light in Christ Jesus. Shall we make room for Christ by meeting the conditions for His spirit to fill our hearts, so that by our testi mony in message and song, and the Godly manner in our Christmas cele bration, Christ with His saving power again will be made manifest to the world. CHRIST COMING IN GLORY
Ben Friesen “And then shall appear the sign of the Son of (Man in heaven: and then shall the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” Matthew 24: 30. When Christ reveals Himself from heaven, we shall behold His glory. When Jesus came the first time He wtis disguised in the flesh.. The “In carnation” was the hiding of His power, the veiling of His Deity. Now and then gleams of glory shot forth as on the Mount of transfiguration; but when He comes the second time we shall behold Him clothed with the glory he had with the Father before the world was. The “Revelation” wiU be as sudden and as unexpected as the “Rapture”. The sun will rise on that day strong and clear. Gentle breezes will waft themselves over the earth. There will be no signs of a storm of the coming Judgement. The peoiple will be buying and selling, building and planting, eating and drinking, marrying and giving in mar riage. The statesmen will be resolving in their minds new plans for the world’s betterment. The philanthropic (Cont. on page 10)
The Messenger
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One of God’s Wonderful Surprises By Helen Braun “O, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together.” Psalms 34:3 This was the very song of my heart when I realized I was actually on my way to the National Sunday School Convention at Milwaukee. As a teach er it is a very rare and special treat to take part in conventions of this kind. It certainly did our hearts good to hear from so many that are zeal ously working for our Lord. We, as children of the King and joint heirs with Christ, have every right to be rejoicingly optimistic. This realization became precious to us anew. We are not alone in this battle of winning and training young people. A message which really spoke to me was based on Acts 3:1-10. "The man God uses”. As Sunday School teachers our deepest desires are to be used of Him! What does He require of us so that He can use us? I. A right relationship with fellow Christians. Our relationship to our brother reflects our relationship to God. II. A regular devotional life. In or der to be an effective Christian teach er, one must be in constant fellowship with God. Only as the Holy Spirit in dwells us can we gain divine insight into the hearts and lives of our pupils. III. A sense of personal responsibil ity. The glorious fact that God has chosen and ordained us to bring forth fruit should constrain us to gladly serve Him.
Miss Braun is a Grade IV teach er in Steinbach’s Elmdale school. She is a memher of the Stein bach EM church.
1965
IV. Willingness to take a leap of faith. The difference between ordinary prayer and believing prayer is—or dinary prayer is when we believe that God can -do what we ask. Believ ing prayer is when we believe that God will do what we ask. Is your goal to be an ideal teacher? Then here are a few very basic re quirements. I. Be thoroughy trained in the Scrip tures and for His service, II Timothy 2:15. The guide book is the Bible and the guide is the Holy Spirit. n. Be an example in every good work. I Timothy 4:12. “We teach only a little by what we say, much more by what we do, but most of all by what we are. III. Be abounding in love, Ephesians 3:17b., Learn to love Christ through real fellowship with Him and then to love each member of your class. IV. Be consecrated to His service,
Romans 6:11 V. Be enthusiastic. Acts 13:25. To be enthusiastic is to be fervent in spirit. IV, Be responsible, Romans 14:12. The responsibility of each Sunday School teacher is to reach his class, to win his class, then train his class for service. AU this must be seasoned with real understanding for the individual pu pil. Let me share with you a para phrase of I Corinthians which one ol the workshop leaders shared with us. Understanding •Though I teach with the skill of the finest teachers, And have not understanding I am become only a clever teacher And a charming entertainer And though I understand all tech niques and methods And though I have much training, so that I feel quite competent But have no understanding of how my pupils think It is not enough., And if I sipend many hours in lesson preparation
And become tense and nervous with the strain But have no understanding of the per sonal problems of my pupils It stiU is not enough. The understanding teacher is very patient, very kind; Is not shocked when young people bring him their confidences: Does not gossip; is not easly discour aged; Does not behave himself in ways that are unworthy, But is at all times a living example to his students Of the good Way of Life of which he speaks. Understanding never fails. But whether there be, materials they shall become obsolete. Whether there be methods they shall become outmoded, Whether there be methods they shall shall be abandoned. For we know only a little and can pass on to our children a little. But when we have understanding Then all our efforts will become cre ative And our influence will live forever in the lives of our pupils. When I was a child, I spoke wth im maturity. My emotions were uncontrolled, And I behaved childishly. But now that I am an adult I must face life as it is. With courage and with understanding And now abideth, skill, devotion, un derstanding These three And the greatest of these is under standing. In conclusion let us consider the dis tinctiveness of being a Christian teacher. We have a Supernatural Person— vho works in us and in our pupils. We have a Supernatural Book— which provides God’s mind in our problems. We have a Supernatural Love— which provides both climate and con text of Christian training. We have a Supernatural Power—the power of prayer. Sunday School Team Teaching, a controversial sub ject in public schools, is today rapidly becoming an integral part of the Christian education picture. Husband and wife teams create an ideal Christ ian atmosphere to all youngsters.
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The author (writing) and local Arabs as they com plete a contract for a road building project.
Women Carrying Water
Conflicts in the Holy Land By Ken BavT<man In September, 1961, I arrived in Jordan under the auspices of the Men. nonite Central Committee. For the next three and a half years, I had the privilege of working with the Meanonite Central Committee and the Near East Council of Churches Com mittee for Refugee Work. When I arrived in the Middle East I was faced with the Palestine prob lem. For years my culture and reli gious background had instilled in me a pro-Jewish bias and now I had to face the conflict of working and liv ing with the enemies of the Jews— the Arabs. We have been taught that every sit uation has two sides. However when this truth is to be applied in real life, we tend to consider only one side. In the Palestine war we were influenced to accept the Jewish cause as a just cause. It was easy to believe the pro paganda fed us through news media and church related channels that this was the restoration of the Jewish homeland, the beginning of the end— we forgot that there is another side to this issue My experience in Jordan helped me to appraise the situation more clearly. I would like to relate several incidents to show how I came to realize that there are two sides to this story.
The Author: Ken is a mem ber of the Steinbach E.M. churahjpresently■studying at Goshen CollegeInd.
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The first incident is one that hap pened on April 10, 1948. It is being used here to illustrate that the war of liberation for the Jews was not a “just war.” Deir Yassin is a small Arab village just west of Jerusalem. It had been noted for its peaceful at titude towards the war and had driv en out an Arab band which wanted to use the village lor anti Zionost opera, tions. For obscure reasons, the Jews decided to take the village and the Irgun (a dissident organization work ing under the Jewish Agency) was entrusted with the task. “Irgun then murdered the entire village popula tion, men, women, and children, and called a press conference to announce its deed and to proclaim that this was the beginning of the conquest of Pal estine and Trans-Jordan.”* Eye witnesses later reported that it was impossible to approach the village without becoming nauseated. “The population had been massacred, strip ed and robbed, and their bodies had been left unburied or thrown into wells, . . Some 250 persons lost their lives in this incident. The second incident cconerns the Me diator appointed by the United Nations Gteneral / ssembly, Count Folke Barnadotte of Sweden. The ac count here reported is from Lieuten ant-General E.L.M. Burns who was Chief of Staff of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization .n Palestine, and author of the book “Be tween Arab and Israeli.” On September 17 (1948) Count Bernadotte and a senior observer, Col onel Andre Serot of France, were in three cars coming from Govern-
ment House which they had been in specting with a view of setting up headquarters in it. An Israeli hason officer with them, and no one in the convoy was armed. When they were passing through the Katamon quarter an Israeli jeep blocked the way, and three men in Israeli uniform ap proached the Counts car. The occupants thought it was for the usual check ing of passes, but a submachine gun was thrust through the window, and, in a long burst of fire. Count Berna dotte and Colonel Serot were shot dead.” The third incident happened this spring in the area in which I wais in volved with the projects. On the out skirts of the village of Tulkarm runs the Demarcation Line. One late af ternoon the Jews were plowing the land on their side of the Line, very near to the Jordanian side. An armed guard accompanied the tractor and evidently became bored, wandered around and crossed into the Jordanian sector. He was shot by Arab soldiers and mortally wounded. He had vio lated the border and paid for it with his life.. Several days later, the Jews took revenge by shooting and killing an Arab National Guardsman well in Jordanian territory. The Guard was at the customary post several hundred yards from the border but he paid with his life for something he was not directly involved with. An eye for an eye. Many other incidents could have been used to illustrate that there is another side to the Palestine problem. I hope these three illustrations will be enough to induce the reader to a more objective view towards our friends the Arabs who live on the other side. •Polk, W.; Stamler, D.; Asfour, E., Backdrop to Tragedy, (Beacon Press, Boston, 1957) o. ?91.
The Messenger
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1 NEWS I sS.
PRAIRIE ROSE (Many of our people were looking forward to a week of revival meetings wth Rev. Abram Neufeld of Morden not knowing what they would be like. Rev. F. D. Reimer had mentioned that Rev. Neufeld had worked extensively in Paraguay with gratifying results. Along with the first service many were insipired to attend all the follow ing ones. Rev., Neufeld spoke mightily in the German and low German lang uages. Interest in the services gre-v from day to day so that the church building was practically filled to cap acity the last evening. (Many visitors attended who still held the German and Low German dear. The sudden passing of brother J. J. Hildebrand in the same week also spoke indelibly to the people of Prairie Rose. At one time practically the whole congregation stood in dedication to the Lord. At another time a host of ^oung people (Christians) came for ward for a word of counselling from Rev. Neufeld. Even the Landmark Collegiate had the evangelist speak to them. 'Truly the Lord visited us. To Him be the glory. The Wednesday night prayer group are having a series of talks on “Eter nal Security”. Rev. Harvey Plett is the speaker. Interest and better attend ance has resulted since they were started.
STEINBACH Dover Building Dedicated’, A dedicaton service was held in the newly purchased and renovated Sun day school building at Dover in the evening of Nov. 7. Guest speaker was Mr. Tanner from the Lepers Mission. The Edwin Harders have been very faithful in this extension outreach and are now planning to have boys’ and girls’ club started as a midweek winter project. Nov. 14 we had common opening and diploma Sunday lor our Sunday school pupils. Pupils and teachers ga-
December 10, 1965
thered in the main auditorium, nearly filling it—filled with the light and beauey and resilient vitality and ac tivity of the young. Nine Bibles were given out for seven years regular at tendance and Melvin Toews holds the enviable record of 23 years perfect attendance. At our Thanksgiving supper the 15th of November, Mr. and Mrs. Hen ry Klassen, just returned missionaries from British Honduras, gave short testimonies. Funeral Saturday, Nov. 13th there came a summons to a young soul here that cannot be disregarded or evaded. Death in an accident claimed the life of 16 year old Ken Peters. The car he was driving collided with a bus just south of Steinbach. Three days later he was carried into the church he attended and loved, a figure of central importance, dead to this life, but going on in eternity. Rev. A. Fast and the Rev. Arnold Wiebe (Wpg.) emphasized the certainty of death and the eternal truths of God’s Word. ’The little things of life—the things that pass should not be the things lived for, but the greater things that go on into the life hereafter, bridging the gulf between the two lives and mak ing of death a mere passing from one dwelling to another, from twi light to unclouded day. “It is ap pointed unto men once to die.” Heb. 9:27 and “Prepare to meet thy God.” Amost 4:12 were the texts used to emphasize the fact the life of Heaven must be begun here on earth.
Ben Friesen as guest speaker. We have been richly blessed our prayer is that we will be faithful in contin uing our mission here. A panel discus sion on “Revival”, preceeded these meetings. ’The door has been opened for us
this fall to conduct services in the schols at Baden and Barrows. These meetings are held alternately on Tues day evenings. The attendance is com prised of children and teenagers.
FELLY Housewarming On Nov. 19th over 20 people from the Pelly and Arabella congregations arrived at the parsonage in PeUy lor a siuprise housewarming party. It truly was a surprise for the Giesbrechts as it is several months since they moved in. Mr. Clifton Abraham son was chairman for the evening’s program consisting of musical munbers, songs, recitations and games., A gift from each congregation was presented to the Giesbrechts for which they expressed their thanks. The lunch »vas then served' which the ladies had brought along. The men put a coat of paint on the church this fall which improved the appearance much. Some time ago the SB. teachers got together and planned a Christmas program, so now the children are busy learning their parts and practis ing for it. Practise has also begun for a children’s choir.
RIDGEWOOD MAFEKING Since the Dave Duecks have left A series of evening services were held us last June, Johnny Warkentin is in Nov. 1st. to Nov. 10th. with Rev. charge of the services here in the Gladwin Plett as the main Speaker. THE FELLOWSHIP CHAPEL. John The first three evenings were empha ny’s brother, Jake, (teaching in Birch sis on missions., Rev. Ben D. Reimer River) is in charge of “Young Peo gave a report from Paraguay; in formation concerning Mexico was giv ples.” Before the beginning of the new en by Edmar Fast, and Rev. Arnold Sunday school year elections were Fast gave a report on Canada Exten held for the first time because we had sion Work. We also had the privilege of having Dr. Lome Penner speak a surplus of teachers. Good News Club was resumed the to us during one of these evenings. last week in October with Selma War The remaining evenings were evangel kentin and [Matilda Buhler as teach istic services with a Special Youth ers. Interest has been fairly keen and Night evening.. Special numbers were trust it will continue since it has rendered each evening. Mr. Peter F. Janzen was hospital proved to boost Sunday School attend ized Nov. 7th because of a stroke. He ance. A series of “Greater Life” meetings was in a critical condition for a few were held November 9-14 with Rev. days. After gradually improving he
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was transferred from the Steinbach hospital to the General hospital in Winnipeg to undergo a thorough x-ray. Dianna Plett, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. J. K. Plett, was admitted to the Children’s hospital in Winnipeg for a major surgery on her spinal cord. The first operation took place on Nov. 16th., but because of excessive bleeding the surgery was not com pleted; therefore the second operation was performed on Nov. 26th, again with much bleeding and a number of blood transfusions had to be given. We are now glad to report that she is slowly Improving and before long she will be coming home again.
OBITUARY OF ALFRED AND JOHNNY I KIESEN sons of Henry P. and Elizabeth Friesen Truly as the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth. there is but a step between me and death. I Sam. 20:23. The Lord in His providence and wisdom has seen it to take from us through a sudden and unexpected death our dear and beloved sons, Alfred and Johnny and we must say with Job of old,” the Lord hath given and the Lord hath taken. The name of the Lord be /praised,” Alfred was born to us on July 13, 1953, reaching the age of 12 years, 4 months and 7 days. He began his firsT years of school in Greenland dis trict where we resided before moving to Morweena where he continued his education under various teachers. As the oldest boy in the family Alfred was a willing worker and made him self useful wherever his help did fit in, Johnny was bom to us on Febru ary 24, 1959 bringing his life span to a mere 6 years, 8 months and 27 days. He was now in his first school year. The expression of his loving and ten der affection in embracing one of his parents will be missed and long re membered. Both Alfred and Johnny together with (Melvin who survived the accident were always closely bound together a.s one unit and usually where one was the other two were there also. Both were happy and carefree boys, and watching them grow up caused us much joy and also concern over their spiritual well-being., Our aim and concern was to bring them up in the nurture of the Lord, bringing them to a saving knowedge of Jesus Christ our Lord. Our plans were that they
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would grow up to become boys that ers in giving us real comfort during would be an asset to society and our sorrow. Elveryone of you has taken a part whose lives would bring honour to the name of the Lord and fill their of the burden and may God richly re places as noble manhcKxl, but the ward you in due time is our prayer. Henry and Elizabeth Friesen Lord saw fit to cut short their lives ,and familv and thereby fulfill their purpose of The funeral of Johnny and Alfred life. On November the 20th at 12:15 Friesen was held on Nov. 24, 1965 in noon in our absence from home, since thet Arborg Hall. This hall had been the previous day, as all three boys rented since the church was too small were returning home from helping to accommodate all comers. out at the neighbours with the tracSong Leader John K. Plett led in tor after making a turn at the cross- two hymns. P. P. Friesen. Uncle of road over a bridge the tractor began the two deceased boys was the chairto skid and losing control on icy man and read out of Psalm 39 and I ground slid down a steep grade into Peter 1:24. After some fitting rethe ditch, thereby upsetting by which marks he led in prayer. After a poem both were pinned underneath and ap- by the Morweena teacher, where the parently met sudden death. Melvin boys had gone to school, the children had jumped off just in time to escape, sang, “Shall We Gather at the River” Johnny was taken to the Arborg Hos- (Johnny’s favorite song). After this pital immediately but Alfred was re- Rev. Friesen read the obituary. Anmoved only after much difficulty and other hymn, “Just As I Am, Without was later also rushed to the Hospital One Plea” was sung, where both were found to bo dead The main message was delivered by upon arrival. John P. Loewen also an uncle of the Upon our returning home from deceased boys. He used as his text shopping in Winnipeg where we were John 9:1-4. Andrew Plett of Arborg found and the sad news brought to us, made the closing. He read Heb. 9:6, we arrived at the Arborg Hospital at I John 5:16, H Thess. 1:7, 8. closing about 5 p.m. where we had to meet with the poem, “He Knows the Way,” our boys cold and lifeless which need- and prayer. Lunch was served to the ed much grace from the Lord who guests. Internment took place the next also supplied it. Left behind to mourn day at Morweena cemetery, their untimely departure are we their deeply moved parents, three sisters: Bernice, Hilda and Trudy; two bro- CHRIST'S COMING (Cont'd.) thers: Melvin and Henry; grandpar- wiU be proving to their own satisfac■ • sides, •' : school '• 2 friends, ; that there is no God, no heaven, ents on both their ttion —........ —---------------~ neighbours and a host of friends and no hell, no judgement, when suddenly relatives. We sorrow not as those with- there will be a change. In the distant out hope but expect to be reunited heaven there wiU appear a “POINT again in that great homecoming of aU OF LIGHT” outshining the sun. It the redeemed ones, on the great resur- will descend apace as if oh wings of the whirlwind, and when it reaches rection morning. it’s destination over the brow of the The bereaved family, Mount of Olives, it will stop and un Henry and Elizabeth Friesen fold itself to the terrified and awe • » * stricken beholders, and there will be revealed to them Jesus seated on a AEKNOWI.EOGEMENT OF “White Horse”. (Rev. 19:11-16) and APPRECIATON accompanied with His saints and the We, as family would like to thank armies of heaven. Then shall be fuleach and everyone of you that has filed what Jesus foretold in His Olivet stood by us this time of bereavement discourse — “Then shall appear the and sorrow. sign (a cloud) of the Son of Man in Your sympathy shown through, heaven; and then shall all the tribes prayer, tears, cards, letters, tokens of the earth mourn, and they shall and visits have meant very much to see the Son of Man Coming in the us at this time. We would like to assure clouds of heaven with POWER AND you, that your love has helped us so GREAT GLORY.” Matthew 24:30 much in bearing up under the strain, (Taken from Clarence Larkin’s writ and that God has answered your prayings.)
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MCC NeuJs
broaden horizons and promote the concept of the brotherhood of man among both the trainees and the spon sors. If the program interests you, more information is available from: Trainee Sponsorship Program MCC 21 South 12th Street Akron. Pa. 17501
WHITE GUT SUGGESTIONS Akron, Pa. — So often finding an appropriate gift is the most difficult aspect of giving. Il you plan to exPAX FILMSTRIP RELEASED piess the spirit of Christmas by help Akron, Pa. A Day in Pax is the ing to meet the need around the name of a new ten-minute sound film world, MCC has a few suggestions strip produced by the Mennonite Cen which you, your Sunday School, or tral Committee. your organization may wish to con A Paxman on the island of Timor, sider. Indonesia, is followed around for a 1. lOc enables MCC to send $10 day to see what he does and how he worth of medicines to MCC and mis feels about his assignment. sion board medical projects overseas. The script was written by Mrs. Linda 2. 10c provides eight loaves of bread Yoder, wife of the MCC director on lor a school feeding program in Viet Timor. The narratoin was tape re nam. 3. $1.00 ships 300 pounds of Govern corded. Copies of the filmstrip may be bor ment surplus commodities to Vietnam. rowed free of charge from most con Jordan, or Paraguay. 4. $1.00 sends three chicks to selfference offices or from the MCC of fices at Akron, Pa.; Kitchener, Ont.; help agricultural projects in Haiti or Winnipeg, Man ; or Yarrow, B.C. the Congo. 3. $3.00 enables MCC to support a FAMILIE,S INVITED TO SPONSOR volunteer overseas for one day: TRAINEES FOR SIX MONTHS —a doctor in Haiti, Indonesia, Viet Akron, Pa. (MCC) — Forty-three nam, the Congo, or Algeria trainees are beginning to anticipate -a nurse in Bolivia. Vietnam, Indon the second phase of their year in esia. or Haiti. North America as they prepare for —a Paxman in any of 20 countries a mid-term conference to be held Jan. —an agricultural extension or com 28-30 in Iowa. From here, they will munity development worker in Korea, go to their next assignments. Greece, Indonesia, Paraguay, Algeria, The 28 women and 15 men come Haiti, Mexico, Brazil. Bolivia, or Mor from Holland, Germany, Switzerland. occo. France, Austria, Jordan. India, Bra 6. $4.00 pays for collection, sorting, zil and Argentina. The group includes packing, shipping, and distribution of secretaries, nurses, metal workers, 50 pounds of clothing or bedding. bookkeeper, an X-ray technician, and farmers, teachers, a banker; trucker; a cabinet maker. Many are willing to HUNGER ON A SCALE do housework or care for children. NEVER BEFORE KNOWN Families who open their homes, Akron Pa. (MCC)—“Human Hun make monthly payments of $60 to ger,” wrote John Hostetler. MCC’s M<ZX3 for travel, medical, and orienta material aid director for Overseas tion costs, and $15 to the trainee in Seiwices recently in his annual letter return lor services and help received. to Amish leaders in Lancaster County, The trainees are given two weeks va. Pa., “is a far more serious problem cation each six month.s for travel and than most of us realize.” sightseeing. Following the second six"Half a billion peoiple are suffering month assignment, the young people from a lack of food. Another billion will return to their homes, which they people are trying to live on improper left in July 1965. diets, especially a shortage of protein The purpose of the program is to food. Diseases, and premature death
December 10, 1965
cause a vicious circle of listlessness humans unable to break out of their misery. Today we are faced with wide spread hunger and starvation on a scale the world has never before known.” Here are some facts Hostetler point ed out: “It has taken the entire history of the human race from the Garden of Eden to the year 1960 to reach a world population of three billion. But by the end of the century. 35 more years, the populaton will be doubled, or six bil lion. “In three regions of the world, namely the United States and Canada, Western Europe, and Australia-New Zealand, plus parts of Argentina and Southeast Asia there are adequate food supplies. But the combined pop ulation of these food surplus regions include only one-fifth of the world’s people. “Four-fifths of the people in the world live in Asia, Latin America, Af rica, and the Middle East. In these areas the population is growing faster than the available food supply. The land under cultivation is not keeping pace with the mushrooming number of people. For example there is only 0.4 of an acre of crop land per person in Asia as compared to 1.2 acres per person in the United States and Can ada. “Population growth is greatest in the regions that have the lowest pro duction of food. For example, in Latin America, by the year 2000 it is ex pected the population will be 600 mil lion compared to 250 million today.” Action General MacArthur wanted a bridge. He called his engineer and ordered drawings. Three days later he asked the engineer how the bridge was com ing along. “Its all ready, sir,” said the man. "You can send the troops across right now, unless you want to wait for the drawings. They aren’t ready yet.” Now to you and me such action might appear to be foolhardy, going ahead without plans. I believe we should all “plan our work and then work our plans.” The danger comes in not putting plans into action. Communism “A communist has no right to be a mere onlooker.”—Kruschev. “My fol lowers are dead men on furlough.”— Lenin. What about Christians?
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To Give or
Not to Give
I 15)
Some time ago we sent questionaires to a number of peowith a question about Christmas giving. Should C" ' ’ we^, in the light of the overoommeroialization of the present day Christmas stop giving? Or should we give gifts on a dif ferent day J ?maybe? We thank those who submitted answers and here they are. GIVING — A TAEENT SHOP WELL IN ADVANCE No, definitely not. Christmas with The idea of Christmas giving, I be lieve has its origin in the Christmas out giving would not feel like Christ mas to me, although giving should story, God himself gave' Christ, his certainly not outshine, or overrule the Son, to mankind which he loved. The true meaning of Christmas. In view wise men gave gifts to Jesus the King of Christm2is being so overcommer whom they honored and worshipped. cialized, I believe, we as Christians We parents give gifts to our children should be able to rise above this sit because we love them. uation, and give for the sheer joy of Here is where our problem starts, giving. “It is more blessed to give, we don’t stop giving presents only to than to receive.” and our giving should our children, we give to our parents, not be directed to people, where we brothers, sisters neighbours, school would expect a personal gain. We teachers bosses, and maybe 2 or 3 would thus be defeating its purpose. ticket circles and so on. This makes I am always rather shocked and dis it so busy and also costs more money mayed, when I hear Christians com than we have. Now giving is a pleasure plaining about the drudgery of Christ and I am not for stopping aU Christ mas shopping. To me it is a pleasure, mas giving. which I begin doing in summer, be If we would give really useful ar cause I can’t wait My gifts for the ticles we might not have so much most part are all purchased and pack trouble buying them in our land of aged by now, (end of November;) plenty.. Shopping well in advance According to Romans 12:8, giving would clean the way for more spirit is listed as a talent or gift, differing ual meditation at the Christmas sea according to the grace that is given son. Being late brings many harrassed to us. times and robs blessings all through For each of us there is an avenue the year anyway. of service in which we should' be We should be careful whom we, faithful. If its in giving, let’s do so aU serve by giving, the recipient or our the year round, for “’The Lord loveth own prestige of pride. “I bid you a cheerful giver.” therefore watch” even in Christian giving. Mrs. Elsie Kliewer Almon Reimer Housewife, Kleefeld, Mechanic, Steinbach
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MOTIVES IMPORTANT In my opinion the question is not whether to stop Christmas giving or not. The pivotal points are: the mo tives back of our giving, and the ap propriateness of the gifts. The giving of good and perfect gifts flames 1:17) was instituted long be fore the world '“commercialized” Christmas giving. Let Godly Christ ians steer a cool straight course through all the “selling” of November and December. I think Evangelicals need to remem ber that even though they dropped from the scenes of Christmas shop ping, shopping at Christmas would still carry on apace. Changing of dates for the exchange of gifts would not affect the “selling line” of the business world at this advanced stage. If it would, that newly adopted date naturally would be con taminated by becoming "commercial ized.” Furthermore, which shall be the "changed” date? As missionaries we do notice when December comes along by the gifts received, but we also find Christians who apparently enjoy “Christmas giv ing” at dates other than December 25. Rev. Gladwin Plett Missionary, St, Lucia OPEN GIFTS WEEK BEFORE It seems that Christmas certainly has become a time of festivity rather than the true Spiritual significance it was originally Intended for. In view of this fact, it does seem imperative that something ought to be done. How ever I do not believe that the trans action of exchanging gifts at this time
The Messenger
of year, would be the complete solu tion to the problem. I believe that many lasting and blessed experiences come through this medium, especially to those who are far from their loved onesj The idea of maybe exchanging gifts on a different day sounds very good to me. We have sometimes openeo our gifts a week before Christmas and some times only a day before, so that the excitement and novelty of the gifts are diminished to a measure, and thus leaving the mind and heart open to the realities of the true Christmas Spirit. This has proven both to be a chal lenge, as well as a real blessing to our own family. Loretta Giesbrecht Missionary, Pelly, Sask. GIVING—AN EXPRESSION OF LOVE I do not think that we should dis continue Christmas giving. To me giv ing is an expression of love. If we keep this in mind then the “overcom mercialized world” need not effect us too much. I do admit that as a whole this ex change of gifts is rather meaningless when Christ is left out. I can well remember, the nickels and “Tutchi” we received from Grand parents after we had recited our Christmas poem—our gift to them. This too was an expression of love. Thanks be unto God for His un speakable gift. 2 Cor. 9:15 Jac. P. Dueck Pastor’s wife, Steinbach
Who's Who? The problem with most adult Sun day school classes is that the teacher does all the studying and the pupils come and watch him learn. (Christian Life). If “If you read this prophecy aloud to the church, you will receive a special blessing from the Lord. Those who listen to it being read and do what it says will also be blessed. For the time is near when these things will all come true.” (Revelation 1:3, Living Prophecies.) Prayer If there is hope for the future of America, if there is to be peace and happiness in our homes, then we, as a nation, must return to God and to the practice of daily family prayer. (J. Edgar Hoover).
December 10, 1965
Let a completely foreign girl spend Christmas with them? Why, that was ridiculous! It meant sharing her bed with her—and—and all. Julie had been chosen to take the part of Mary in the church pageant. For days she had practiced looking sweet and blest, for the “Hail-Mary-thou-art-highlyfavored” part. And Mom had finally given her consent to keeping one of Mrs. Houston’s kittens. One of those soft, Persianed cuddly things that did nothing but purr and sleep in your lap. Instead of playing with the new kitten, she’d have to entertain this— this stranger! But the rest of the Jantzens went wild over the idea. Gregory turned children's Story cartwheels on the rug. “I’d learn all about Korea for my geography les son! Soo Woon? If I don’t remember her name. I’ll swoon!" And Pete, his butch haircut look ing like a close-cropped wheat field, yipped. “Whee! I’ll have three girls and a cat to tease!” “No, you don’t!” Marge, who was slicking down her dark hair with hair dressing, warned. Mom looked at Julie with a ques tion in her eyes. “Well, Julie? What do jou say? You’re the one who’ll have to entertain her, mostly. Would you be willing to share these things— be her partner—for two weeks?” Julie swallowed again, and pushed her brown hair out of her blue eyes. What could she say? She knew the “glad tidings” of Christ’s birth meant that He had come as a Babe in a By Esther L. Vogt manger so that He could go to the cross—for Soo Woon and the Jant zens, and everybody. But just the same, it would mean giving up things JULIE JANTZEN gulped twice af —her playtime with her new toys— ter Mom had read Aunt Kathryn’s maybe even give up some of her letter. It just didn’t make sense. Christmas things so the Korean girl Well, it made sense, but not in the could have them. Was it going to be way Julie liked. Aunt Kathryn, who worth it? “Well—” she paused and wet her taught in a private school for girls, never wrote—unless she had stupen lips with her tongue. “I—I guess I can stand it, if the rest of you can. . .” dous news. But when olive-skinned, roundAnd here it was, ten days before Christmas and Aunt Kathryn’s let faced Soo Woon arrived, every black hair slicked down perfectly in place— ter contained a bombshell. Julie remembered it almost word even straighter than Marge’s—Julie for word. “I was wondering if you’d had the surprise of her life. Instead be willing to take one of my pupils, of being grateful and happy that Soo Soo Woon, into your home for the holi had a swellegant place like the Jant days. . . . Soo’s a timid, Korean or zens’ to stay for Christmas, Sobersides phan, and is going to school here Soo just plain gawked at them! “You—you’re to sleep with me,” through the kindness of some mission aries. Being about Julie’s age, and Julie told her, trying to act eager and speaking good English and all, she’d happy. But Soo didn’t even flick one be sure to unfold with the whole live black eyelash. ly houseful of you. . .”
o Clhirbtmas
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From then on, Julie began to feel sorry for the Korean girl. Although Soo spoke English—when she spoke at all—she didn’t say more than half a dozen words that first day. She was very polite, of course—bowing and closing her eyes every time any one did her a favor. “Maybe, after she’s been here sev eral days, she’ll warm up,” Julie thought. Even Pete, who scarcely had any manners at all, began to bow. Gregory teased him about it, no end. “I’m just trying to make her feel at home,” Pete protested. “She’s such a quiet, mousy little thing.” Gregory grunted. “Looks from here like I won’t get that free geography lesson about Korea after all. She zips her lip up tighter’n tight.” Julie decided maybe a taffy pull and a popcorn party might thaw Soo a little. But after all the squeals and laughs and sticky fingers, Soo only twitched her lips the teensiest bit.
Another idea walloped Gregory. “Why couldn’t Soo be Mary in the church pageant, instead of you, Julie? She has such a solemn face, I think it makes her look—well, real ‘hail’!” Julie gasped. Then she nodded her brown head. Maybe it wasn’t a bad idea after all. With Pete up in the choir, Soo would feel more at ease. When Julie asked Soo about it, the Korean girl shrugged her shoulders. “You are mos’ kind,” which was the longest reply she’d made all day! Mrs. Houston brought the kitten over just two days before Christmas. The minute Julie caught sight of the fuzzy little thing, she called out, “Here, kitty, kitty!” But it ran and jumped into Soo’s lap the very first thing and went to sleep. Soo stroked the gray fur gent ly without a word. Julie sighed. Now what? Gregory sidled up to Julie. “What are you gonna name your cat? You can’t keep on calling it ‘kitty’ for ever. Every cat in the block would come running.” “When I come across a real swellegant name for the kitten, I’ll name it—and not before!” Julie snapped. “Maybe you could wait until it grows up and let it pick its own name!” Pete teased. Julie smiled. Then her smile died as she saw Soo staring at the kitten as sober-faced as ever. What could you do for a person like that? Seemed as if she’d tried about everything.
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“I bet Soo could think of a name,” Marge said suddenly, busy with her comb again. Julie jumped in surprise. Surely, if Soo would name the kitten she wouldn’t clam up any more! “Tell you what, Soo,” Julie tried tO' sound casual. “Since I can’t think of a name, why don’t you name the kit ten?” Soo stared into space about half a minute, her face never changing a bit. “How about Sun Loo?” Julie felt like kicking herself. It hadn’t meant a thing to Soo Woon— anybody could see that! She talked it over with Mom later. “No matter what we do for Soo, she doesn’t appreciate it one bit. Having her over here has been a complete flop!” “No, Julie,” Mom stroked the brown hair gently, “even if Soo doesn’t realize and appreciate what we’ve tried to do, it will still be all right.” “What do you mean?” “God doesn’t just count the things we set out to do—He also counts the effort. You’ve tried, Julie. You’ve really tried.” Julie felt better. But even on Christmas morning when Soo opened
the pretty red-and-silver package un der the tree, and got the same blue sweater and skirt set as Julie did, the Korean girl had nothing to say. She just bowed more deeply than ever. The day Soo left, Julie heaved a sigh of relief. “That’s that!” she said to the rest of the family. “Maybe we’ll get an ‘A’ for effort in God’s Book, but as far as Soo Woon is con cerned, our grade is zero!” Several days later, after vacation was over and the Jantzens were back in school, another letter came from Aunt Kathryn. Julie braced herself for the sur prise. It came. “You ought to see the change in timid little Soo!” Aunt Kathryn wrote. “She’s so full of what you did for her during Christmas—about Sun Loo and being Mary in the church pageant, and the taffy pull. . .
Oh, and that you’ve shown her how much fun a real family can have—of course, she’s never known any broth ers and sisters. . . And she has shown a willingness to listen now, when I speak to her about Christ. I think Soo will accept Him soon now. Thanks for all you’ve done for her—
IVIy Gift HELEN MARY SEES Perhaps today, O Blessed Lord, Someone will come my way Who has a need for just the word That I in love can say. Perhaps today, O Blessed Lord, Someone will ask of me A helping hand in burdens great That others do not see.
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Perhaps today, O Blessed Lord, Some soul may seek to know The wonder of Thy saving grace. And I the way might show.
Then let me say the needed word. The burden let me lift. And bring that soul to Thee in love; O let this be my gift.
Moody
Monthly
The Messenger
FROM
OUSE
TO YO
HOUSE
UNDER THE SUGAR-COAT Mrs. Violet M. Wright I
Mothers, have you ever tried to give your child a pill to swallow? We’ve all had this experience at one time or another.. We show him how pretty it is, and tell him it tastes just like candy. With this encouragment he bravely tries to swallow it. Suddenly, big tears come to his eyes. Coughing then choking sounds are heard, and the next thing, there lies the little tablet on the floor. In his efforts to swallow the pill the sugar-coat has come off. Nothing is left but the bitter taste. How deceiving it has been.
This is a picture of someone who has not let the lovely Lord Jesus into his or her heart, yet wants to be con sidered a Christian. He associates with Christians, may go to church quite often, and even take part if asked. To those about him he can look very real, his outward acts fooling many into believing he is living a sweet Christian life; but what is under that sugar coat? “Man looketh on the out ward appearance, but God looketh on the heairt,” I Samuel 16;7. His word
At Bordeaux we had to make an emergency landing for repairs but soon were again airborn. Two of the people I met on this trip were Rev. Jenkenson and Mr. Homer Dowdy. The former was a veteran of 45 years in the Congo and had also been liber ated from Stanleyville at the same time as the Mel. Loewens. Mr. Dowdy is the author of the recent book. Out of the Jaws of the Lion, and was in the process of writing it at the time we met. (The book has since been published. It deals with the events preceding and following the Stanley ville liberation. ED.) After crossing the great Sahara desert we landed at Bamako, Mali OVER Republic at seven in the morning. Not only a different land but indeed a dif ferent world, Everything is different. LAND Here to greet me were Ed. Tshetters, G.IM.U. representatives in Bamako. From here, another 150 miles into AND SEA the bush in Sirakora, the misison station where Katheryn (daughter) and Lar by Mrs. P. D. Reimer ry (IMoNeill) labor. Between these two pieces is Kita. where they receive their mail. It so happened (?) that INTO THE STARRY HEAVENS exactly on this day Larry had decided In February a letter came written to make the trip to Kita and found in by daughter Helen (Mrs. Ben Eidse, the mail a letter (the first one) telling Congo) inviting me to come over to of my arrival! Now what? Back along Congo. A big decision now lay before the long road to Sirakoro to tell Kath me. Things were still far from peace eryn or on to Bamako to meet me? Dis ful over there. Still fresh in my mem patching a messenger to Sirakoro ory was the recent phone call from with the letter he took the night train Dr. Melvin Loewen telling of the mir to Bamako arriving there at eight in aculous deliverance from Stanleyville. the morning. After prayer and consultation with Arriving at the bush station, home loved ones and friends the decision of the McNeills, at 11:30 at night we was made to go. Now it seemed that found that the runner with the letter half the work was done. Eight days had not yet reached here! And thus remained before I would go. it was that as yet no pews had Again there were so many helping reached my daughter of my arrival. hands to help me get ready. Mrs. Leo Seldom, due to being so inaccessible, Janz offered me a dress. Tina Blatz do they even s-ee a white person and brought her coat. Marina took me to now mother was there in person! You Paris to get my Mali (my first stop) can imagine the joy of this reunion. visa. (Margaret Neufeld encouraged (Next time: Life at Sirakoro) with, “Mrs. Reimer, its’ tremendous. I’ll pray for you.” Tina Blatz speaks to the children Since the Janz Team was in the process of embarking on their South America trip at the same time, there was much activity on Florastrasse. We promised each other to compare 1 notes when we got back. Arriving in Paris the Lord sent two students to help me in the business I had to transact there, namely going to the Mali Embassy and then to the other side of the city to the Regoutt Airport.
also says “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked, and who can know it,” Jeremiah 17:9. It may be that even though one has accepted Christ as His Saviour and lives a separated life, he may harbour some bitterness against a fellow Christian, or jealous and covetous spirit, in his heart. Whatever the need may be dear reader, we must wholly yield our lives to Him who died* on the cross for us, so that there is no sham, no deceitful ness, but our sweetness genuine throughout.
December 10, 1965 I
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finbr 2:111,11