A Challenge to the Young People in Our Schools by L. L. C.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 28, 1915

A Challenge to the Young People in Our Schools

By L. L. C.

Two weeks ago there appeared in the World-Wide Field department an appeal from our missionaries in China and the surrounding countries. We feel certain that this appeal has touched the hearts of all who have read it; yet it should have come with especial force to the young people who are now in our advanced schools preparing themselves for service in the Lord’s work.

For definite results definite plans are needed. A ship that drifts with the tide and the wind never arrives at the desired haven. It is certainly in the providence of God that the young people in our colleges and in some of our academies have been led to join themselves together in foreign mission bands, whose active members are those young men and young women who have formed a definite purpose to go to foreign fields when prepared. It is indeed encouraging to see the membership of these bands increasing. While there were 245 persons in these bands in the school year of 1913-14, the membership for last year was reported as 509. What will it be this year?

The appeal of our brethren in the East is such as will stir those who are ambitious to make their lives count for the advancement of God’s work in the world. The call is for “loyal, consecrated young men and women who have the qualification of leadership. It is for those who have executive ability, that they may direct the work in our local missions, and stand at the head of our various mission departments and institutions.”

Leadership is not developed in a day. It requires time for oaks to grow. We have been many times told that it is not only the privilege but the duty of our young people to aim at great achievements. We should “attempt great things for God.”

It is to be hoped that many of those now in school will definitely decide to prepare themselves to answer this appeal from the Asiatic Division. God will surely bless them and guide them to the right field. If for any reason it may not seem best to the Mission Board to send them out, they may be foreign missionaries here in the home field. Let us pray to the Lord of the harvest that he send forth laborers into his harvest, that the work may soon be finished and the eternal day be ushered in. L. L. C.