Editor's Letters

by T. Austin-Sparks

November-December, 1968

Dear friends of this ministry,

With this issue of the little paper we conclude another year of its ministry. We do so with gratitude to the Lord for His enabling to "continue unto this day", and to you who have given us so much encouragement to go on. So many of you have written appreciative and sympathetic letters. Although it is not possible to write personally to all such friends, let me say that every letter is read, and I take this opportunity to thank you most sincerely. Your prayers have been answered in that the ministry, both of the magazine and the literature, have been in continually enlarging demand, more this year than ever. It is our true desire, not just to have something kept going, but that this may be a ministry of Christ to the Lord's people who are needing such. From many letters we realize that so many of the Lord's people are knowing spiritual pressure and stress in an increasing measure. It may help you to know that you are far from alone in this conflict, and perhaps this knowledge will stimulate you in "prayer and supplication for all saints". We have had our share in this conflict. It takes the various manifest causes or reasons; opposition and cruel criticism and allegations without foundation in truth; and involvement in teachings and practices amongst Christians with which we could never agree. There are many strange and abnormal movements and it is quite a battle to keep free from entanglements, because many who are known to have been associated with this ministry have gone off into these strange things. We know that there is much "strange fire" about (Leviticus 10) and we grieve that, through sheer hunger, many dear children of God are "led away", for we know that the end will be disillusionment. We do want this testimony to go on unsullied, although we are so well aware of "many adversaries".

Among the ministries of the year two are outstanding. The Eastern States Convocation in Maryland, U.S.A., in July. A wider range than ever before was represented, there being friends from a large number of States, including far West California, and Canada. There was a clear atmosphere and we feel that the Lord was working with purpose. Then there was Aeschi in Switzerland. Friends gathered from many parts and nations, including Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia. Quite a contingent of young people was present this year. While we believe that the ministry was its chief value, the fellowship was a tremendous asset. This gathering together unto the Lord is something of great value to His people, not only at the time, but afterward. But not only those gathered, but God's people everywhere are prayed for in times of intercession.

Much prayerful help is needed for the future. Changes are pending and much wisdom is required in making decisions and resolving problems. So, stand with us that there may be no loss of the Divine deposit, and that one's "bow may remain in strength".

Greetings in His most worthy Name.

Yours in His grace,

T. Austin-Sparks