A Neglected Field by A. R. OGDEN

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D.C. · Dec 17, 1903

A Neglected Field

By A. R. OGDEN

A. R. OGDEN

To the south of us, and beginning right at our own door, lies the great Spanish-speaking field, embracing Mexico, the Central American States, and nearly all the South American republic.

In missionary circles, South America has been truthfully called the “Neglected Continent.” But the subject of these few lines embraces more,—yes, the great, neglected Spanish-speaking field which begins with Mexico, our next-door neighbor, and yet how sadly neglected by those who have the greatest, most solemn message ever committed to man.

But in these few lines we call take but a general view of the great field, and of what yet remains to be done by us before our Lord can come and say, “Well done.”

In an imaginary trip let us leave the Central States and go to the Pacific coast. About three days will suffice to bring us from Kansas City or Omaha to San Francisco, where we embark, sailing out through the “Golden Gate.” Leaving this portal, through which all vessels must pass in sailing to and from San Francisco, we steer directly toward the setting sun. Once fairly at sea, far enough from shore to be safe from the many treacherous rocks of the coast, we suddenly change our direction from west to southeast. Two days of continuous sailing will bring us to the end of the waters washing the shores of the United States.

We now find ourselves viewing the mountains of Mexico. Eight days more will bring us to the Central American republics. Thus, ten days of continuous passage from San Francisco will bring us fairly in sight of the volcanic regions of Central America. As the steamers carrying passengers on the west coast are more properly freight steamers, we must content ourselves with stopping in probably half a dozen Central American ports. In each port we may be detained from a few hours to one or two full days, according to the celerity of those who have to do with receiving and dispatching the boat. From our boat in the bay we shall have a beautiful view of tropical vegetation. An abundance of sunlight and rainfall unite to make nature manifest itself in full glory.

Leaving Central America, we bid adieu to North America, and hastily pass on, stopping possibly at a port or two in Columbia, Ecuador, and Peru, occupying about two or three weeks more, when we find ourselves passing by the long, narrow strip of land on the west coast—Chile. In the three last-named republics, with Bolivia, a little to the interior, we have a population of ten million. And yet as little has been done to carry the precious message of the third angel to these millions in darkness. While a good beginning has been made, yet much remains to be accomplished.

A few decades ago these different countries were altogether opposed to the entrance of Protestant missionaries, but to-day the doors are open. Many opportunities present themselves for carrying the truth into these countries. What shall we do to fill the openings? Many will say, “I can not go, the way is too far. I know not the language.” True, all can not go personally, neither will it be necessary for all to learn the Spanish tongue. But all may and should have a part in carrying this last message to these waiting lands. There are some who already know the language, and are ready to go, but because of the lack of means can not be sent. Every one who will contribute of his means to aid in sending those who are prepared and anxious to go, is as truly doing his duty as is the one who goes. Now the year 1903 is closing. Its record is about made.

Have we been faithful to our profession? Have we done all that we could? If not, let us rally to our duty. Let us make much larger gifts than we have ever made before, so that the messengers may be hastened on to every part of the earth. Surely this year ought to witness a larger annual offering than any year of the past. Where we have in the past given cents, can we not make the offering dollars? where before tens, now hundreds? Think of it. Pray over it. Act upon it.

“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” Matt. 24:14.