IT WAS a busy scene one morning on board a troopship with hundreds of soldiers on board.
In spite of the excitement and bustle, a hearty reception was accorded to some ladies who had come to distribute books and papers among the men.
Something to read was not to be despised, and as the books were handed around many an opportunity was offered for a little talk with one and another which, with God’s blessing, might prove “Words of life.” More than one bright face spoke of the peace and joy which Christ alone can give. While eagerly taking the offered paper, one added to his:
“Thank you, miss, if you have any to spare, I could give them to my comrades on the voyage.”
Another said: “There are a lot of men down on the lower deck, miss, and they haven’t had any yet; shall I show you the way down?”
Down accordingly the ladies went, among a still denser crowd of men, and here, too, hands were eagerly stretched out on every side to take the offered papers, and again earnest words were spoken of a loving Saviour, who saves to the uttermost all who come unto God by Him. For there is no other way, He is the only Saviour and He has said: “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.”
On that same vessel there was a young man who had run away from home on account of his parents being too good for him; he did not like to hear of Jesus, but the papers he received were used to exercise his conscience and finally he went home and kneeling beside his mother, he yielded himself to the Saviour and cried out: “It is done! Christ has saved me, the precious blood is applied; bless His name.”
The remaining weeks of his life were marked by an eager desire for the salvation of those about him, and God so blessed his efforts that he was the means of leading four souls to his newly-found Saviour.
In closing, we repeat the last words of this young man, and may they be used in blessing to every unsaved reader: “I am going to be ‘with Christ, which is far better won’t you trust Him, too?”
ML 08/18/1918