The Messenger April 30, 1965

April 30, 1965 Vol. 3, No. 9

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE

CONFERENCE

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Photo courtesy Manitoba Departiraent of Industry and. Commerce

Manitoba Government Air Service plane in Northern Manitoba.

Mother is it Worth­ while 11

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The aeroplane is often the only means of transportation to the farflung northern regions of our Province. In many areas it is the one vital link with the outside world. Among those benefiting from this modern miarcle are the missionaries and schoolteachers whom the Lord has called into these remote places. One such teacher is Bill Penner who, together with his family, is at God's Eiver in northern Manitoba. Brother Penner tells us of some of their experiences in this week’s Messenger. (See page 5)

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“IF ANY MAN THUtST, LET HUM COME UNTO ME AND DRINK.”

MATT. 7:37b 1

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Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa Minnesota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, and Oklahoma. The programs will feature renditions from the choir and a new 10-minute film showing the growth and ex­ panding need of the Bible School. -"1

FILLING APPOINTMENTS And say to Archippus: See to the ministry that you re­ ceived from the Lord, that you fill it full. - Colossions 4:17 The preacher’s date book is full for six months ahead: a Bible conference in Pennsylvania, a victorious life con­ ference in Ohio, an evangelism conference in Illinois, a youth meeting in Missouri, a series of meetings in Mary­ land, Sunday preaching appointments in Iowa, Indiana, Michigan, and in New York.

He will be darting around as if he had misread the ancient creed: “I believe in the ‘commotion’ of saints.” If he isn’t careful, it will become an ingenious fitting together of plane, train, bus, and car schedules to whisk him in for one appointment and whisk him out for the next one. The first thing he knows, he will be filling appointments with an empty heart and mind. That is hardly the way to fill a ministry full. Some of us get enough big dinners rhat we have no trouble in “filling the pulpit” with avoir­ dupois. But we may not fill anything else. Perhaps “the hungry sheep look up and are not fed.” Perhaps they say, “Yes, he filled the apointment, but he didn’t fill us.” Filling appointments is not an end in itself. The preach­ er must have something to fill them with. He must be growing in his ministry. His knowledge of the Word must be filling him with a greater fulness. Only such a minister fills his ministry full. This is not a protest against an active ministry which goes into open doors. It is not a depreciation of our mod­ ern travel facilities which enable a man to appear here and there all over the map. If Paul were here today he would, no doubt use these facilities to multiply his ministry. But he would know his limits. He would be more con­ cerned about fulfilling his ministry than about filling his schedule. ‘ Perhaps Paul knew through Ephaphras that the young minister Archippus was coasting along—reaching into his sermon barrel instead of delving into the Word, preach­ ing because it was Sunday rather than because he had something to say. Perhaps Paul knew that he was running over to Laodicea and Hierapolis and down to Ephesus, “filling appointments.” He tells him to fill his ministry, and to fUl it full. —Paul Erb, from “Don’t Park Here” (Used by permission) • • * BIENENBEBG CHOIR TO VISIT MANITOBA, ONTARIO, AND EASTERN U.S.

Akron, P. (MCO—The Bienenberg Choir from the European Mennonite Bible School near Basel, Switzer­ land, during August and September of this year will visit communities in Manitoba, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Virginia, 2

The 13 singers will be accomanpanied by choir director Willy Nussbaumer and by the school’s principal Samuel Gerber and his wife. Gerber is widely known as the speak­ er on the German language Mennonite Hour broadcasts. The European Mennonite Bible School was founded in 1950. As the only Mennonite educational institute of its kind in Europe the school over the years has experienced a steady increase in student enrollment. Offerings taken during the course of the tour will go to the improvement of existing facilities and the building of additional class­ rooms. Perched high on Bienenberg (Bee Hill), the European Mennonite Bible School overlooks the city of Listal, Swit­ zerland. The school is international in character as both teachers and students come from the European countries of Switzerland, Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Classes are taught in German and French.

The Mennonite Central Committee’s World War 11 re­ lief ministry on the war-ravaged Continent led to close and fruitful interaction between North American and European Mennonite Bible School which today plays an important role in the life and outreach of Mennonite church­ es in Europe. Here young people study the Scriptures in preparation for church service.

The European Mennonite Bible School needs the pray­ er and support of the North American Mennonite brother­ hood. The visit of the Bienenberg Choir to Canada and the U.S. this summer affords an opportunity to strengthen ties with the European brotherhood through the joyful language of music.

• • • News writers this issue: Heron, Liz Janzen; Winnipeg, Mrs. Glen Koop; Wymark, Mr. and 'Mrs. John J. Friesen. • • •

T am convinced that the need of the hour is not so much to discuss the Bread, as to break it and pass it out to the hungry multitude.”

The Messenger Official argan, In the English language, of the EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE. Published bi-weekly "mder the aus­ pices of the E.M.C. BOARD OP PUBLICATIONS AND EDUCATION. Editor, David K. Sohellenberg, 502 Fifth Ave. N.W., Portage la Priilrie, Man. AU new subscriptions and change of address should be sent to Mr. Abe Klassen, Box 1447, Stelnbacbi, Man. Subscription price to non-members $1.00 per year. All E.M.C. members pay through the church. Authorized as second class mall, Post Office Department, Ottawa, and for payment of postage In cash.

THE MESSENGER

Man’s Part in God’s Redemption

The Author: Rev. Archie Penner is interim Professor of Greek and New Testament at Mennonite Biblica1 Seminary, Elkhart, Indiana.

Remembering the conclusions of our last article, it is now time to come to that most glorious truth, salvation by grace and grace alone. However, it is well to remind ourselves that we concluded on a strong note of both the fact that it was God Who is alone the One Who saves and yet human responsibility prevades every one of the aspects of man’s salvation.

Three major facts, therefore, meet our attention in the Scriptures at this point. First, Salvation is totally and completely God’s doing. He not only alone provides it. He also alone ap­ plies it. And in every respect He takes the initiative. Second, it is therefore, by grace alone. If it is of grace alone, work can have absolutely no part in obtaining salvation. Third, in spite of all this, what man does is continually presented in Scripture as decisive with reference to his salvation, and this in all three phases of past present and future. It is really what man does which finally determines whether he is redeemed or not. Here, once again, we must remember the Philippian jailor. He asked, and properly, “What must I do....” The Bible continually tells man what to do in order to become a child of God. Man must believe. He must repent (See Mk. 2:5-9; Mt. 1:21; Eph. 2:5,8; Rom 3:20-25; 27; 4:4,5; 11:6; ICor. l:8;30: Rom. 8:28-30; 9:16-21; John 3:16-18; Rom. 6:23; James 4:6-8). Obviously, we are here confronted with a delicate question. Can or must all three of these truths be accepted at the same time? Because there seems April 30, 1965

IX

By Archie Penner

MAN IS SAVED BY GRACE ALONE to be so much difficulty to harmonize these truths, there are those who have emphasized God’s part in saving man, while ignoring or minimizing man’s responsibility until it is, in effect de­ nied. In this scheme, the free-will of man, to which the Scriptures contin­ ually appeal has ceased to be free-will. Grace has become irresistable, even though some may call it efficacious grace without altering its meaning. The opposite position is that man’s part in salvation, is so emhasized that to be saved comes to mean that he must out of his own strength exer­ cise the faith he has by nature. This easily deteriorates into, or already is, the idea of works righteousness or salvation by works. Man now works and God accepts this as a payment in return for salvation. This view is tot­ ally foreign to the Christian faith as taught in the Scriptures. A third position takes these truths to be completely irreconcileable. Sal­ vation is of God alone, but man is re­ sponsible. Yet how these can be har­ monized is not considered. Here faith without explanation bridges the gap. Much can be said in favour of this position. However, we want to sug­ gest that, there are some facets of Revelation which God has given so that we need not be totally in the dark about the wholeness or harmony of these three marvelous truths. To understand better tne fact that these are really not different truths but that together they present one fuller and more complete truth, and that the different components need not and must not be considered con-

tradictory, we must look more closely at the meaning of the Biblical con­ cept of “grace” and “works”. What is grace? The grace of God is essentially a gift. That whenever we speak of grace it means “gift” in all the fullness of this meaning must be firmly grasped. Grace is, then, God doing good, to those who have not earned any of His favour. This is correct, but it does not go far enough. The grace of God is His attitude and activity wliereby He does good, and only good, not only to those who have not and cannot earn God’s favour, but to those who liave actually earn­ ed His divine displeasure and wrath. Here we stand and marvel. It is no wonder that the church keeps on sing­ ing of this marvelous grace of her loving Lord. Recognizing that this is what God is doing in saving man is perhaps not too difficult. However, there is anoth­ er most significant dimension of grace which is not easily recognized and understood. The former, we call “saving grace”, the latter we call “common grace”. This is the grace which covers all the rest of God’s gracious activity, in the deeper sense, it is impossible to separate these two aspects of God’s grace. However, for the sake of convenience and clearer understanding of what God’s grace is, this seems necessary.

In the next article we will define both of these aspects of grace and relate them to the Biblical concept of “works” as well as to “man’s respons­ ibility in God’s redemption.”

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Teaching in Manitoba’s Northland By Bill Penner

The Flight In It is now seventeen moons since we first sighted the shores of God’s Lake, Although time has somewhat dimmed our memories, several first impres­ sions of our arrival here stand out sharply! Having crossed those miles upon miles of swamp, lake and bush coun­ try we really understood for the first time why this area is called ‘isolated’. When the plane which brought us here became a tiny speck in the South sky, we knew that this was for ‘bet­ ter or for worse’. If we had not been so very sure that God led us to serve here we just might have panicked. Al­ though there were a few white people at the dock to meet us, most of the large audience out to see the new teachers arrive chattered away in a language foreign to us and with man­ nerisms which at the time seemed foreign to us, too. Work Rewarding Teaching these Indian youngsters has been a very rewarding work. Sev­ eral of the things required by the Indian Affairs Branch were new to us. It is required that we teach Oral English for an hour or more every

Barber Penner!

day in addition to the regular school subjects. We have to pay more and stricter attention to the pupil’s clean­ liness. The pupils have responded very well and take pride in keeping them­ selves as neat as possible. How they Jove to curl and comb and part their hair ‘just so’ after every recess! Oc­ casionally the teacher may have to lend a hand and turn barber after four o’clock. Enjoy Flannelgraph We have experienced our greatest joys here in the work more directly concerned with soul-winning. Three denominations are represented here, but when we first came here there was no church building at God’s Riv­ er. The only resident missionary is Benjy Nattaway, working with his family for the Northern Canada Ev­ angelical Mission. He conducts Cree services in his home and also has a fair-sized Sunday School. We have tried to help along with the work as it was established. With the added attraction of new teachers and more visual aids, the enrolment soon went up to include the total school enroll­ ment in addition to about ten pre­ schoolers. How they enjoy the flannel

Intermediate Sunday School Class

stories! Each Bible story is given ut­ most attention and the Gospel Chor­ uses are sung heartily! The sight of the new teachers walking through the village on their way to Sunday School with the flannel board under the arm, seemed to draw the children right out of their homes to the church. A Church is Built Since there was a need for a church building to house the growing Sunday School and Good News Club, plans were made last winter to build a log chapel near the mission house. The Northern Canada Evangelical 'Mission organized this and we helped along with the building program here in our spare time. Well, the mosquitos are plenty thick here in June and the exposed sap of the peeled logs seemed to invite all of them to our log peeling area! Even when we were finally ready to strap the logs together to float several miles to the building site, we could not get rid of the pesky hordes. We had to travel slowly with the logs, and they were all able to keep up with us! After many week­ ends of fine fellowship with native Christians and missionaries from neighbouring reserves, each log fin­ ally fitted into place. Now the church stands 30 feet by 20 feet and is almost finished inside with plywood, and furnished with fine new benches pre­ pared and paid for by our home church Young People. We almost dare to be proud of the fine new log build­ ing!

Decisions Much more important to us than the building of this log chapel is the building of His Church, To tell of what the Lord has done in this area over the past few years, makes us want to stand back in humble grati­ tude. This is not what we have done, but entirely the Lord’s doings, and we are thankful that we have been missionaries here for several years, much sowing has been done over a great length of time, and many Christ­ ians have been faithfully praying for the Indians of this Band. It is with THE MESSENGER

wonder that we watched, (and as­ sisted) more than a dozen teenagers come out and take their stand on the Lord’s side. Such joy lights their faces when they know their sins for­ given, such a burden they have for their unsaved parents, friends, and neighbours! Such witnessing!

Do these young Christians go on to live victoriously? Yes and no. Some do, some don’t. Benjy Nattaway start­ ed a Bible study for the new con­ verts on Wednesday evenings. Most of them attend, a few regularly. Much prayer is needed for these young plants, most of whom lack a Christ­ ian ho.me, and training in the Christ ian life. Many temptations and trials face them of which we are not even aware. For this reason and others, we, are so thankful that we are work­ ing with a native missionary, who is one of them, understands their cus­ toms, and temptations better than we ever can.

Important “Smoke Signal”. And now we wish to send a very important ‘smoke signal’ message to you teachers who are reading this ar­ ticle. It is ever our greatest burden that Christian teachers might come up north to teach these Indian children. Several friends and missionaries from adjoining reserves have written us, wanting to know whether we know of Christian teachers to fill vacancies in their school next term. Do we know of any Christian teachers who would be willing to come and teach and, at the same time help these missionaries with the Sunday School work, ser­ vices and mostly by their moral sup­ port? We are praying with them, that God might find willing teachers to fill these vacancies. Will you, Christ­ ian teacher, make sure that God is able to answer the prayers of the missionaries and come to teach Can­ ada’s Indians? As a closing thought I would like to quote from Ezekial 34:8, “My flock became meat to every beast of the field, because there was no shep­ herd, neither did my shepherds search for my flock, but the shepherds fed themselves and fed not my flock.” * * *

’Though Christ a thousand times In Bethlehem be born If He’s not born in thee Thy soul is still forlorn. April 30, 1965

Indians assemble the one-horse garden cultivators sent to Paraguay from Ontario in 1964. More cultivators are needed to help the Indians care for their crops.

Cultivators For Paraguay Remember the time when we used a one-horse garden cultivator to con­ trol weeds in our garden and row­ crops? Factories no longer make them and very few farmers in Canada use them. BUT ONE-HORSE GARDEN CUL­ TIVATORS ARE URGENTLY NEED­ ED IN THE INDIAN SETTLEMENT PROGRAM IN PARAGUAY. MCC is helping the Mennonites in Paraguay to settle on farms. When J. M. Klassen visited Paraguay last fall he saw Indians using cultivators that had been sent from Ontario. More are needed. Over 4000 Indians of two tribes live in the vicinity of the Mennonite col­ onies in Paraguay. Through the wit­ ness and mission efforts of these col­ onies almost 1000 Indians have al­ ready been baptized and added to the church. Now these Indians want to settle down and live like the Menno­ nites do. You can help by contributing your

old cultivator. 1. Cultivators should be com­ plete and in good condition. (It is of no use to send junk to Paraguay. If the wooden handles are rotten throw them away and ship the culti­ vator without them. New wooden han­ dles can be made quite cheaply in Paraguay). 2. Clean the cultivator. (Knock off the mud and wipe off excess grease). 3. Wire all loose attachments firmly to the cultivator. 4. Take the cultivator to your near­ est MCC collection center. (Location of collection places will be announced locally). If you do not have a cultivator but would like to support this project, you can make a cash contribution designated for General Relief and your money will be used to help set­ tle Indians in Paraguay. (Send your contribution to your provincial MCC treasurer or to MCC (Canada), 104 Princess Street, Winnipeg 2, Manitoba.

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Revival

1 NEWS I WYMARK We were privileged to have the Swift Current Bible Institute serve us with a program on March 28 and the Steinbach Bible Institute Chorale served us with a program on Good Friday, April 16. Despite the bad roads we had a good attendance at our Evangelistic Services held from April 4th to 11th with Rev John D. Friesen as speaker. We experienced many blessings, as well as confessions and rededications, for which we thank the Lord. Rev. John Unger, who grew up in the local district, and is now labour­ ing under the Northern Canada Evan­ gelical Mission served us with the morning worship hour on Easter Sun­ day. The ministerial of the E.M.C. and E.M.M.C. of Saskatchewan held a joint meeting in the Blumenhof EiMMC church on April 12. The ministers of the EMC are con­ ducting evening meetings at the Her­ bert Old Age Home every Tuesday. This is being appreciated very much. The S.S. attendance has varied much this winter due to weather conditions. Our S.S. high was 262 and the low at­ tendance was 17. The ministers of the Wymark EMC are taking turns in serving in the Swift Current and Gouldtown church­ es until a full time worker is available for these churches. « • • HERON On April 9, Rev. Art Neufeld brought a report in the Heron church of their trip to various mission fields in South America. We saw on the slides which he showed, many fam­ iliar faces, especially the Frank Kroekers, Pete Martens and the Johnny Jtmzens. , On April 11, we held our Sunday School conference. Rev. Abe Unger from Prairie Rose and Rev. John Loe­ wen from Blumenort were the guest speakers. Ed Toewses from the Ridge­ wood district accompanied the Loe­ wens and visited their children out here, the Gordon Thiessens.

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meetings started Easter

Sunday and will continue through to April 25. Rev. Cornie B. Loewen from Morris, formerly a missionary to Mexico, is ministering to us. • • •

WINNIPEG Mr. and Mrs. Dan Koop have left Winnipeg to take over the EMC Mis­ sion station in Creighton, Sask. Their faithful services in Sunday School, Wednesday Family Night and Male Choir are certainly missed. Rev. Peter Unrau of Kelowna, B.C. was guest speaker at a series of Ev­ angelistic Meetings, April 4-11, at our church. A time of fellowship in fast­ ing and prayer the first Sunday brought us closer to the Lord and to each other. Throughout the week we felt the Lord’s presence as Christ­ ians were rededicated and souls were saved. Good Friday we gathered to par­ take of the Lord’s Supper; Rev. Plett gave an appropriate meditation on Christ’s last words on the cross, graphically portraying His physical and spiritual sufferings. Easter Sunday morning a Baby Dedication Service was held. Rev. Plett and Mr. Lee Toews prayed the dedicatory prayers for five children and theii- parents.

* * * ALLEN KENT NEUFELD Allen was born on June 16, 1964, as we thought a strong, healthy baby. After 2 weeks however, it was not­ iced that he had an enlarged liver. At 6 weeks we were advised to take him to the specialist in Winnipeg. At rhis time he was admitted to Children’s Hospital for a week of tests which seemed to indicate there was no hope for recovery. Allen was a very friendly baby. Whenever we looked at him he would smile as though rejoicing at our presence. On Oct. 5, we went back to Child­ ren’s Hospital with him. Oct. 7, he was operated. This kept him hospital­ ized for 2 weeks. The operation which was very hard on him showed there were no ducts in the liver, nor any tubes, or gall bladder leading from it. The doctor said there was no cure. On Dec. 21 he was again hospital­ ized here in Steinbach, because of lung infection, from which he never

recovered and steadily continued to decline. During the last times he had pain but inspite of this was a comparative­ ly good baby. On April 1, we again brought him to the hospital a very sick baby. On April 3 shortly after 9:00 A.M. we were called to the hospital, though on our arrival he already was resting in the arms of the Lord. He has reached the age of 9 months and 18 days. Allen leaves behind his mother and father, sister, Lucille, and brother, Alaire, his 2 grandmothers, the Friesen great grandparents; Mrs. P. R. Toews, great grandmother, and many rela­ tives.

“A CHILD LOANED” I’ll lend you for a little time A child of Mine,” He said, “For you to love the while he lives. And mourn for when he’s dead. It may be six or seven months Or twenty-two or three. But will you, till I call him back. Take care of him for Me? He’ll bring his charms to gladden you. And should his stay be brief. You’ll have his lovely memories As solace for your grief. I cannot promise he will stay, Since all from earth return, But there are lessons taught down here I want this child to learn. I’ve looked this wide world over In My search for teachers true. And from the throngs that crowd life’s lanes, I have selected you: Now will you give him all your love. Not think the labour vain. Nor hate Me when I come to call And take him back again?” I fancied that I heard them say, “Dear Lord, Thy will be done. For all the joy Thy child shall bring. The risk of grief we'll run. We’ll shelter him with tenderness. We’ll love him while we may. And for the happiness we’ve known. Forever grateful stay. But should the angels call for him Much sooner than we planned. We’ll brave the bitter grief that comes And try to understand”. —The Parents

THE MESSENGER

Two Hundred Twenty-Five Dead,

5000 Injured

SIX STATES HIT BY TORNADOES I—Damages in the tens of millions of dollars, injuries by the thousands, and great losses of life, were inflicted upon six states on Palm Sunday by scores of Midwestern tor­ nadoes. Of the states hit on April 11—Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wiscon­ sin, and Iowa—Indiana was the most severely buffeted by the twisters. The national press reported that in Indi­ ana, Elkhart County was the hardest hit. On a tour of the stricken area, the President of the United States stopped at Elkhart where he was overheard stating that he had never seen such destruction. Over and over he mut­ tered, “Horrible, horrible.” The Goshen News reported that Elkhart County suffered its worst tragedy in history. Two tornadoes, al­ most exactly an hour apart, ripped through the county claiming at least 47 lives and injuring more than 200. In the entire six-state disaster zone over 225 lives were lost and more than 5,000 injured. According to an AP dispatch a state trooper described the effect of tor­ nadoes on the Mennonite community of Shipshewana, Indiana, thus: “This is what you call complete devastation. The homes are gone; even the rubble is gene.” Fifteen persons died within seconds after the tornado struck. The Shore Mennonite Church was lost. On Monday following the wind­ storms, the Mennonite Disaster Ser­ vice organization was engaged in emergency service in Elkhart-Goshen area of Indiana; Crystal City area near Chicago, Illinois; the HillsdaleTipton area of Michigan; the BlufftonLima are off Ohio; in Wisconsin and Iowa. Hundreds of MDS men are now active in Elkhart county alone. Region II director Lewis Britsch is keeping a close check on the need for disaster workers. No areas of poten-

April 30, 1965

Christmas bundles should be taken to the nearest MCC collection center and $1.00 contribution per bundle sent to the nearest MCC office. The dead­ line for this project is July 1. Cash contributions should be in well in ad­ vance of this date to allow sufficient time for the purchase of the compo­ nents.

Winnipeg Hospital Asks for Sununer Service Unit

Kitchener, Ont. (MCC)—Mennonite Central Committee (Ontario) has an­ tial usefulness have been overlooked. Of course, many men have volun­ nounced that MCC Canadian Summer teered to help and are standing by on Service will reopen its unit at the Win­ alert. In some instances there are de­ nipeg Municipal Hospital. lays because insurance adjusters must The hospital has requested nurse first have a chance to assess damages. aides, licensed practical nurses, and Regional coordinators are ready to \registered nurses as summer replace­ move in volunteers as they receive ment help. Ten volunteers are needed by May 1, ten others by June 1, and clearance to go ahead. Contributions to the Mennonite ten by July 1. A total of 30 workers Central Committee for disaster assist­ can be placed in this unit. The hos­ ance should be sent via the usual con­ pital will provide living accommoda­ ference and relief committee chan­ tions, meals, and a salary. nels. Interested individuals should con­ * * * tact the Mennonite Central Committee CHRISTMAS IN MAY? at 104 Princess Street, Winnipeg 2, Who ever heard of celebrating Manitoba, or at 50 Kent Avenue, Kit­ Christmas in May? Nobody, of course. chener, Ontario. And yet, is not the Christ of Christ­ mas and the fact of his incarnation MINUTE MEDITATIONS an every day reality? BEER INTO FURNITURE Last spring about 40,0(X) North AND FOOD American Christians celebrated Christ­ A coal miner was happily con­ mas by preparing MCC Christmas verted! There was a marked bundles for distribution to needy child­ change in his life. He became ren abroad. In the 19 year history of different from the unbelieving this project a total of 500,336 bun­ miners with whom he worked. dles have been distributed. Over half The unbelievers seemed to de­ a million children have experienced light in ridiculing the Bible in once in a lifetime what our child­ his presence. ren expect annually, or oftener, and One day they asked him, “You what millions of others have never don’t really believe that yarn experienced—to receive a Christmas about Jesus turning water into bundle given by a Christian who wants wine, do you?” to express his love and concern for The converted miner turned others. the hard question into an oppor­ This year you have the opportunity tunity to witness for His newlyof participating in this project. You found Saviour. Said he, “Fellows, may prepare your own bundle, accord­ as you know, I am an ignorant ing to instructions contained in a man. I know nothing about wa­ folder which you may request from ter and wine. But I know this— your pastor or from the MCC office that in my home Christ has nearest you. Or, you make a cash turned beer into food and furni­ contribution, via your church, or prov­ ture! That is good enough for incial MCC treasurer, designated for me! Before Christ came into my Christmas bundles. It costs about life, the comer saloon got a $8.00 to buy the components of the lion’s share of my hard earned bundle and to cover the cost of ship­ wage!” ping and the purchase of a Bible to —Gospel Herald accompany the bundle.

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THE CHRISTIAN HOME By Ben Hoeppner

DISOBEDIENCE In the previous issue the training techniques were discussed. Three prin­ ciples pretaining to this topic were pointed out: The principal of the practical example, of love, and the rod. As we now direct our attention to the topic of disobedience in the Home, it is therefore a continuation of the previous issue. We will sub­ divide this theme into three main topics— 1. Reasons for Disobedience—Poet­ ically we say: “Home is the place where you receive most love and where you grumble the most.” A child receives cookies to nibble, re­ treats to the bedroom to consume them. 'Mother calls: “But child, eat them in the kitchen, not in the bed­ room.” However, the child is deter­ mined to eat in the bedroom. If the mother forces the child, it become.s contrary and surly. What was the reason for the child’s misbehaviour? Had it not received love when the mother gave it cookies? Were not the intentions of the mother good when she asked the child to eat in the kitchen? Why, then, this con­ trary and disobedient behaviour? Basically, it is because the child has inherited a sinful nature. All causes for discipline in the home emerge from the source of the lost and de­ generated condition of all mankind. The small infant in the cradle, de­ spite its purity and innocence, has the germ of every sin imbedded in him. 2. Different manners of Disobedi­ ence—A child was forbidden to crawl onto the table. When the mother was not looking it crawled onto the table regardless, stretching himeslf to his ful height like a king. When mother reproachfully reminded him to “get down”, the child merely stretched out his arms towards his mother, saying, “I’m sorry.” When mother was about

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The following reference likewise intimate this truth: Proverbs 13:21: “He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes. Proverbs 15:10: “Correction is grievious unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hat­ eth reproof shall die.” Heb. 12:9:“ Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?”

2. The parents ought to teach their children. Proverbs 22:6 emphasizes to place him on the floor, the child this: “Train up a child in the way he lovingly put his arms around her. should go. and when he is old, he will Under such circumstances, the mother not depart from it.” wtis unable to punish him. However, It is self evident that this exhorta­ as soon as mother left the room, the tion pertains to rearing or training youngster was back on the table. a child. In order to alter disobedience, What truth is displayed here? It i.s parents ought to simply teach the disobedience in a friendly manner. At another occasion, the parents right way, demonstrate or show them, and to command it. were earnestly striving to rear their A young girl entered the home with son in Christian ethics. After the son was growing, however, he became great enthusiasm in regards to an of­ violent and independent. Inspite of fer given her. She was designed to kind exhortations and reprimandings, become a fashion model which would he disregarded them and offended his give her a salary of a hundred dol­ parents. Midst tears the parents lars a week. However, one drawback pleaded with their son to choose the seemingly intervened. She was some­ better way. The situation was heart what too young for this position. If, however, her father was willing to rending. This is an example of violent dis­ state that she was older than her ac­ obedience. It is difficult to fathom. tual age was, all obstacles could be The parents had reared their son in overcome. When the daughter confronted her love, had good intentions, but he de­ fied their kindness. Was the son un­ father with this offer together with aware of the fact that he was destined the suggested lie, he felt that he was to suffer loss in the end? Without a unable to comply with her wishes. The father was too pious a Christian to doubt. Another type of disobedience is the lie about her age. The daughter was quiet rebellion. Even though this man­ greatly disappointed and accused her ner of disobedience, does not cause as father of lack of love as well as hav­ much heart ache, it is disobedience, ing no interest for her future. De­ spite her accusations and reproaches, nevertheless. 3. To remedy (or alter) Disobedience the father remained steadfast in his This is the big issue. Who is capable integrity and faith. He reared his of giving enlightenment? The writer daughter correctly and wisely, even can merely throw out a few sugges­ though misunderstood by her at the moment, causing her, as she claimed, tions; 1. The parents ought to attempt to to lose a large sum of money. understand and diagnose the disobe­ What might have occurred if the dience of their children. Were not the father had complied to the wishes parents at one time disobedient when of his daughter? Had he not then they were young? The Bible intimates sacrificed his integrity and godliness a trend to -ii .ob/dieiicc in regards to for mammon? Would he have made rearing children. In Proverbs 29:17 his daughter’s interests his own god? we read: “Correct thy son, and he Would he not have displayed the shall . . . delight unto thy soul.” The principle: be devout and honest when command insinuates that a disobe­ it suits you but when it does not suit, dience against training a child will pursue your interests which demand emerge. first place?

THE MESSENGER

WAS IT BECAUSE?

TRUTH tor youth WHAT CHRIST MEANS TO ME The following testimony was writ­ ten by Barbara Dueck as an assign­ ment for Sunday School. Barbara lives at Washow Bay and is in Grade IX.

I am indeed thankful for what the dear Lord has done for me. I have been saved through His blood shed on the cross for my sins. He was sent to die for the sin of all people as we read in John 3:16 and 17. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved.” My desire and prayer is that I might live a Christ­ ian life pleasing to Him. Although

trials may come He will still lead and guide me on. In one verse we read, “Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of good courage, be not afraid, for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” The Lord is leader and guide of my life. In Romans 12:1 we read Paul’s mes­ sage to present our bodies a living sacrifice unto God. I hope that I may someday be of service to Him in bringing forth the word to the many that still wander in darkness away from the tender shepherd’s care. Barbara Dueck

Enola Clianiberlin Life was good to me today. Every moment, all the while. Was it because to everyone I gave a cheery smile?

I had a very lovely day, No better can I call to mind. Was it because each time I could I made an effort to be kind? Life seemed offering me today Bounteous things without an end. Was it because I took the time To write a letter to a friend? Life was wonderful, each hour, I had more joy and less of care. Was it perhaps because I paused Each little while to say a prayer? * » »

The Bible is absolutely incomparable. There is nothing like it; there never will be. Do you really know your Bible? Are you growing increasingly to know it? Have you given time to it and thought, and prayer? Is the study of the Bible a lifelong occupation with me?—Clarence A. Barbour.

Homecoming Day at the Steinbach Bible Institute

The annual Alumni Fellowship of the S.B.I. was held right after the Spring Conference thi.s year. Seen here reg­ istering are Mr. (’58) and Mrs. (’58) Jake Martens. Center picture shows part of the crowd that had turned out for the banquet. At right looking at the Morocco display are Mr. Menno Hamm (’54) and John Toews (’56) both en­ gaged in teacliing at present; the former at Austin and the latter at Portage la Prairie.

April 30, 1965

9

mattress. Aiyee, his flesh must be soft to need more than a laced-rope bottom or a date-leaf mat! Next came a long, white cloth and a net like a giant spider web. What would not the pale­ skinned people do? Bursting with excitement, the two sped to the fields to tell the others. By nightfall everyone had some new bit of information to impart. “He does not follow our customs. See, he eats with both hands, instead of using his right hand only. He takes water with the right as well as with the left, and he drinks from a covered bottle with a tightly screwed top, instead of a handled gourd filled at the village well.” “He eats from vessels that are shiny like silver, instead of from brass dish­ es or a leaf. He washes his vessels with foam instead of rubbing earth upon them.” There were angry mutterings, too. “That one, he brings no good. Our harvest will be ruined, and our children will go hungry.” And yet, at evening, Mukul was forc­ ed to admit that the village looked just the same as it always had. There was the rice straw piled between the houses so closely that you could scar­ cely walk between. The leaves were Since dawn the two boys, Mukul hedge to an occasional tree, the boys and Rama had been in the fields, us­ followed the roaring. When the jeep yellow and dry on the trees, and no ing small sickles to shave handfuls stopped by the grove of mangoes, more fell that day than the day before. The next day had begun as any of rice stalks close to the ground and Rama grabbed Mukul, “The noise, binding-the sheaves with hard, tough Mukul—it has stopped! The monster other day, with the familiar sounds twists of grass. Toward noon they no longer breathes smoke and fury.” of the courtyard—the oxen lowing, Speaking as if the boys were in the picking of the chickens, the bleat­ heard a strange roaring, mightier than a swarm of locusts. full sight and not hiding, the white ing of the sheep and goats that shared Craning his neck to see over the man called out, “Is there any reason the hut with Mukul’s family, and the hedge of plantain, Mukul reported, “If why I should not stop my jeep here snoring of Guravia. Lifting himself on one elbow, he watched as his mo­ it is an ox cart, I have never seen the and make camp?” Timidly Mukul answered. Perhaps a ther ground the grain between round life, for it runs without an animal in front and a tail of smoke comes from little farther on—this is in the path flat stones, while his sister tossed a behind.” Then, as the noise came where we drive the cattle home from wicker tray of rice in the wind, so that the husks were blown away. If only alongside, he added, “It is the white the fields.” Leaving the jeep, the white man there would be enough rice, barley, man, the one who came with the heal­ ing medicine just before the grains strode ahead, while the boys followed and wheat to fill the earthen jars in the storeroom! Ah, he closed his eyes at a safe distance, “Here then?” were fully ripened.” “Is the lotus-skin woman with him?” “Oh, no, not there,” said Mukul. again; that was something to dream Rama asked eagerly. “That tree lost all of its leaves while about. the others were still full of blossoms “No, he is alone,” Mukul replied. He was still deep in his dream of Mukul felt strangely saddened, even and fruit,” Mukul clucked his tongue eating until he could eat no more, though he had been required to reproachfully. Did not the white man when Rama ran into the yard, calling, cleanse himself many times in keep­ know that such a tree was sure to “You cannot make your belly full ing with the Hindu custom, after his harbour an evil spirit? chewing empty air. Let us go into Walking on, the man asked, “Here, the fields.” medicine treatment by the white wo­ man, Still, even Ruberma, his mother, under this big tree?” Casting aside his sleeping mat,, and Guravia, his father, had been Mukul nodded his head. Then began Mukul rose. “Wouldn’t you like a forced to admit that the ugly cut on the strangest proceedings. First, the feast of rice with chicken curry and his foot had healed quickly and com­ white man brought out a bed. From" pastries?” he asked. a folded position, it flipped open to pletely. Rama groaned. “Stop it!” Then, in Dodging back and forth from the reveal legs. And there was a padded (Continued on page 12)

Children’s Page

MUKUL and the HELPING HAND

10

THE MESSENGER

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and, as soon as they learned to lisp the sweetest name in prayer and praise. When they knew how to use a knife and fork, they were allowed to sit at the table with their parents, asking softly for what they wanted, and eat­ ing thankfully whatever was provid­ ed for the family. Since they were never allowed to eat between meals, this last was not a very difficult thing to do. “Early to bed” was another maxim to which Mrs. Wesley firmly aCTiered in the training of her child­ ren. First came family prayers, then supper, and by seven o’clock she was ready to wash and undress the child­ ren, beginning with the youngest. At eight o’clock, all were tucked in for the night, and a blessed season remainded for the sweet communion and quiet enjoyment of the weary father and mother Crying never won anything in the Epworth parsonage. In sickness and By Jessie F. Moser in health the children were expected to be obedient, polite, and unselfish. Why should a mother sacrifice so Much of the clamor and hostility inci­ much of her time and strength to dent to childhood were also banished the training of her children? Is it I by the invariable rule that no promise really worth rhe trouble? Let us was allowed to be broken, no gift re­ consider one notable example: claimed, and no brother’s or sister’s In the midst of poverty and mis­ belongings taken. Temptations to false­ fortune, during a period of riot and hood was almost entirely eliminated outrage, Susanna Wesley gave birth by the habit of never punishing them to nineteen children. Sacrifices for for naughtiness confessed. them, however, did not cease with As soon as one of her children was their birth. During the long trying five years old, she became its schoolyears of infancy, childhood and youth, misrress. No talking or playing was she personally attended to their crea­ allowed in school hours, and lesson ture comforts, and to their mental and moral education. On into mature life she carried them each on her heart, saving them from false moves, and encouraging them in right paths, by her prudent and loving counsel. The training of her children began with their birth. They were dressed and undressed, fed rocked to sleep, at set times. When only a year old, they had learned to cry softly, so that, although the house was full of child­ ren, it was no noisier than in many homes where there is only one. She insisted on perfect obedience, believing that this was the foundation of all true education, and the corner­ stone of all true happiness. She be­ lieved in sowing the soil of their gar­ dens with good seed before the enemy had opportunity to sow tares. When they were not yet old enough to speak, or to know how to kneel, she taught them to be quiet at family prayers;

A Mother’s Day Feature

MOTHER,

I

1

is it

Worthwhile?

April 30, 1965

was ever left until it was perfectly learned. At the close of the morning session, all that had been learned that morning was repeated. The progress made under such a teacher and such methods was “almost incredible.” Some thought that she was unecessarily active in spiritual matters, and inexcusably strict with her children. Her life certainly was swallowed up in the life of her children to a degree that few mothers know anything about. Her sacrifice was complete. What about the compensation? Did it pay? “Such was the effect of her training that his father admitted John to the Communion when he was only eight years old.” In later life, both John and Charles continued the habit of general retire­ ment to pray and read their Bibles at five o’clock, and the love for religious music that grew out of their early morning and evening devotions final­ ly bore rich sheaves of sacred song. We are told that John had some minor backslidings for a time after leaving home; but the old habits pre­ vailed, and he was finally thoroughly and gloriously converted. From that time on, his path was a bright and shining light that shone more and more into its setting, and has contin­ ued to send up an afterglow that time itself can never quench. He was temperate, exceedingly careful in the choice of his friends, generous and kind, and so unselfish that he would go without common

U

necessities in order to helA‘ fortunate. For sixty years, he rose at four o’clock in the morning, and was in the habit of not wasting one moment of time during eighteen working hours. He did much of his reading on horse­ back, while going from one appoint­ ment to another; and during thou­ sands of miles of such traveling, through dangers manifold, his piety was so sincere that the knew what it was to have God heal and protect him, and even his horses in times of need. Like Daniel, John Wesley dared to stand alone and trust the consequenc­ es with God. He feared neither single rioters nor mobs, but moved steadily on doing the work to which he was called, and oft times found that his Master caused even his enemies to be at peace with him. Shut out from the churches, he resorted to fields, and, in the midst of “formalism, sensual­ ism, and infidelity,” lifted up Christ and His righteousness demonstrating afresh the promise; “And I if I be lifted up . . . will draw.” His “service to popular literature entitles him to a distinguished place among the benefactors of the eight­ eenth century. Most of his writings and his brother’s hymns were pub­ lished at prices that put them within the reach of all. Many were in the form of penny tracts, so that even the poorest could purchase them.” His younger brother, Charles, was an earnest and noted evangelist; and his sacred songs have comforted and cheered many a pilgrim’s heart along the heavenly way. His eldest brother, Samuel, was also a good and scholar­ ly man. Mrs. Wesley’s funeral sermon was preached by her beloved John; but j“the mother lived on in her sons and 1 in the glorious work which they were doing for God and their country.” Be­ sides her children, millions of others have arisen to call her blessed, some doubtless during the ceaseless ages of eternity. Question; Does it pay for mothers to give up their lives, in this manner, for their children? Answer; “Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone; but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit” (John 12;24). J.F.M. From a tract—Moody Press 12

MUKUL AND THE HELPING HAND (Cont’d. from page 10) a more serious tone, he asked, “What went wrong this time, Mukul? Our fathers planted on time and fed the household gods each day. Why is it that we have a good crop only once in every two or three years?” Mukul shrugged, “How should I know? My father even sacrificed a goat, to rid the fields of disease.” Perhaps,” Rama suggested, “it is as the old ones say—the white man brings the trouble. Now he is come again in that—that—jeep—” The boys were quiet for a few mo­ ments, thinking of the previous day’s excitement. “Rama, couldn’t we just go around that way on our return from the fields?” Rama frowned darkly. “No good will come of that, I fear. Still, if we do not touch him, nor brush against his possessions—” For an hour they worked tirelessly. Jnen, with staggering loads of sheaves or their heads, they turned toward the threshing floor where the patient bullocks trod the grain. As they neared the white man’s camp, Mukul clutched Rama, “See, he does not go to the canal to cleanse himself and perfom his morning wor­ ship. He sloshes water from a basin and spreads foam on his face.” “Ai-yee, he does the work of the village barber himself,” Rama an­ swered. So intent were they that they did not hear the first cry of alarm. Then ic came again, louder and closer. “House afire!” A thin wisp of smoke and flame crept from the thatched roof of a nearby hut. Mukel jerked Rama’s arm. “Ai-yee, it is the house next to your own. With dry straw piled between the houses, the sparks will travel quickly.” Even as they spoke, flames leaped across and the thatch of Rama’s roof began to smoulder. Fearfully, Mukul stared. If all the houses should go, they would not eat this winter, for the storage jars would be destroyed. With most of the men in the fields and the women at the threshing floors, there were only the very old, and the very young left to fight the flames. No one seemed to know what to do. The old ones muttered' ‘,What can we do but pray that the wind

will not come up? The well is almost dry and the canal too far away. It is the will of God.” Suddenly the voice of the white man pierced the confusion, “All of you who have jars form a line to the well. If we wet down the houses that have not caught, perhaps we can hold back the fire.” Pointing to Rama and another, he said, “Rush into houses that have just started to smoke and pull down the beams so that the fire is kept inside.” Then, at the white man’s suggestion, Mukul climbed down into the well and began to scoop up the water to fill the jars that were handed to him. Some of the villagers held back for fear all the water would be taken and there would be none to drink, but en­ couraged by Mukul and Rama, most of them soon caught the spirit and worked with a will. When it was over, only embers re­ mained of the first hut, but Rama’s house and the others were safe. Now the most critical of the Hindus were saying, “The white man helped us. He has saved our village. See, he has a heart, even as we do.” As the villagers began to carry their possessions back into their huts, the white man looked as happy as they. Grimy and wet, stained with smoke, he stood beside Mukul and Rama, “Thank You, Lord, for Your help,” he whispered. Listening, Mukul thought, “Shall I ever understand the white man? His faith is not like mine, but it must be good. I will learn more of him. I must!” — Young Pilot — By Frances P. Reid • * *

TRUST

The little sharp vexations And the briars that catch and fret, Why not take all to the Helper, Who never has failed you yet? Tell Him about the heartache. And tell Him, the longing, too; Tell Him the baffled purpose When you scarce knew what to do, Then, leave all your weakness With the One divinely strong. Forget that you bore the burden. And carry away the song, —Selected THE MESSENGER

J