Sacrificing an Outing for Missions by John N. Quinn

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park, Washington, D. C. · May 30, 1912

Sacrificing an Outing for Missions

By John N. Quinn

JOHN N. QUINN

Two families in an Eastern city having decided to spend the midsummer holiday together at the beach, the day was looked forward to in keen anticipation of a "good time." There were nine children in the two families, ranging in ages from nine to twenty years. The question of the midsummer offering for missions was raised in one of the families, and a vote was proposed as to whether the trip to the beach should not be surrendered, and the money which might be thus spent given to missions. The vote was unanimous in favor of missions.

After consulting together, a trip costing a five-cent car fare was agreed upon. The wife of a colporteur who was at work in a distant city, with her two children, was invited to join the party. With lunch-baskets well filled with wholesome food, the start was made; and from the very beginning a spirit of delightful good-fellowship prevailed. A ride of an hour and a half brought them to their destination, where they found two springs of water, clear as crystal. Hammocks were stretched, swings put in operation, and each one sought the thing that brought the most enjoyment. Table-cloths were spread on the greensward under the shade of trees, God's blessing was invoked upon the bounties of a loving Creator, and it was a happy company that partook of the midday meal.

The afternoon passed away all too quickly, and at eight o'clock they started home. On the car a tract was offered to a gentleman, evidently a stranger, which led to an interesting conversation. Two persons in an adjoining seat turned to listen. They also were offered tracts. One of them accepted.

On arriving home, all heartily agreed that the day had been a most enjoyable one, and the sacrifice for missions in no way detracted from the pleasure of the outing, but rather enhanced it.

Takoma Park, D. C.