H. T. BENSON by H. T. Benson

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jun 27, 1907

H. T. BENSON

By H. T. Benson

Japan

Tokyo.—As it was thought best for me to put all my time on the language for a while, I have done very little direct missionary work since coming here. Almost immediately I started to attend a school whose primary object is to teach the language to foreign missionaries. This, with the work of secretary and treasurer of the mission, takes all the time I have, except that used in trying to reach two young men by teaching them English. With one I use the Bible as a text-book. The other is not far enough advanced for that, so I am using a simpler book. It is our hope that through them we may be able to reach our neighbors—a preparatory work, to be followed up as soon as we can use the language.

Mrs. Benson is also putting as much time as possible on the language. She has two girls studying English Bible with her. One of these came to the house, and said she wanted to learn about Jesus Christ. But her use of English is so limited that it will be some time before the whole story can be made clear to her.

Now is the most favorable time to work here—not that the majority of the people are ready to receive Christ, but those who are waiting for him must be reached soon, or it will be too late. The hands of the law are beginning to be tightened here in Japan. Sunday is being used as a day for rest and pleasure. Ball games, boat races, etc., are usually set for that day. But history repeats itself. And we must ever keep in mind that the changes which took centuries in other countries occur in decades in Japan. The government is already keeping close watch of our movements. During the late war some of our young men

refused to serve when drafted; and when they stated that their religious belief was the cause of their refusal, our brethren were immediately called upon to explain as to whether or not they were teaching their converts to disobey the law. Of course the young men had made their own choice, our workers having said nothing one way or the other; but this government is very quick to notice the least indication of an influence from abroad, and missionaries are closely watched.

While I can hardly hope to have much of a report for some time to come, I can do my best on the language.