The Need of Christian Teachers by KATHERINE B. HALE

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 7, 1908

The Need of Christian Teachers

By KATHERINE B. HALE

Do we in any measure sense the loving concern of the Great Shepherd for the “lambs of the flock”? Do we appreciate the fact that the rapid progress of this message in foreign fields, and the speedy fulfilment of God’s purpose, is being largely determined by our attitude toward the question of training our youth for the Master’s service?

We are told that “children are a heritage of the Lord,” and are to be trained for his service. “Every child born into the home is a sacred trust. God says to the church, ‘Take this child, and bring it up for me, that it may be an honor to my name, and a channel through which my blessing shall flow to the world.’”

As with the child Jesus, “the early years” of our children may be given to the study of God’s Word. From the beautiful things which surround the child in the home,—from his love for the beautiful buds, and opening flowers,—he is made acquainted with the great Creator, the loving Heavenly Father. Happy that child whose first lessons are such! Fortunate that child to whom Christian parents early introduce the truths of nature and revelation, and whose earliest home education includes habits of industry and helpfulness.

Remember that “every child may learn as did Jesus,” the Christ child,—that little by little a knowledge of God’s love and infinite plan may sweeten and brighten and make strong for service these children and youth from whose lips the last cry of the third angel will be heard. O wonderful opportunity these probationary hours, these hours of privilege in behalf of our children!

And the children are so responsive, “Of such are the kingdom of heaven,” said Jesus. O these children, how he loves them! “He is looking on to see who is doing the work he desires to have done for the children and youth.” Jesus knows that our children will listen to instruction, and accept him as their Redeemer far more readily than will many grown people.

In his work as a public teacher the Saviour never lost sight of the children. We are told that his spirit found rest and peace in the society of innocent little children. His large heart of love could comprehend their trials and necessities, and find happiness in their simple joys, and he took them in his arms and blessed them. In his teaching he came down to their level. Although he was the majesty of heaven, he did not disdain to answer their questions, and simplify his important lessons to meet their childish understanding. He planted in their expanding minds the seeds of truth which in after-years would spring up and bear fruit unto eternal life.

And Jesus is still saying, “Suffer the little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me.” Now, while probation lingers; while our children are most susceptible to the teachings of his truth; while their hearts are open to right influences, and their minds strong to retain impressions received, it is high time to—

“Open the door for the children, Tenderly gather them in,— In from the highways and hedges, In from the places of sin,”— Gather our own little children, Gather them into the fold; Teach them God’s love and this message; His work is more precious than gold.

It is not ‘idle saying,’ but enthusiastic and intelligent ‘doing,’ that must count in this work of educational reform to which we as a people have been called. The definite message, “Come ye out, . . . and be ye separate,” has sounded upon this question too long to find the work in its present status. But blessing and encouragement are for us, even though it is a tardy obedience that we are now able to render. “The field is the world,” but that part of it which should claim our first attention is the part that lies at our door. Our own children and youth are as precious in the sight of the almighty Father as are the unconverted in heathen lands.

Over and over has instruction come: “Shall our youth be left to drift hither and thither, to become discouraged, and to fall into temptations that are everywhere lurking to catch their unwary feet?” “The work that lies nearest to our church-members is to become interested in our youth.” They must not be left to go the way of the world, and for lack of interest upon our part be left out of this closing work,—God’s finishing work. “God requires the church to arouse from its lethargy, and see what manner of service is demanded in this time of peril.”

KATHERINE B. HALE.