Samuel Morrison was a faithful missionary who served 25 years in Africa. In failing health, Morrison returned to the United States. Also traveling home on the same ocean liner was President Teddy Roosevelt who had been in Africa for 3 weeks of hunting expedition.
As the large ship pulled into New York harbor, it looked as though the entire city had come out to welcome the president. Music filled the air, banners everywhere, balloons flew all over the sky, flashbulbs were popping like popcorns, and confetti streamed down like snow.
As Mr. president stepped into sight, the crowd exploded in applause and cheers. It was truly a reception fit for a king. While all eyes were on the president, Mr. Morrison quietly slipped through the crowd. None of the applause was for him and no one was there to welcome him home.
His heart began to ache as he began to pray… “Lord, the president had been in Africa for 3 weeks, killing animals, and the whole world turns to welcome him home. I’ve been given 25 years of my life in Africa, serving You, and no one has greeted me or even knows I am here.”
He then felt the gentle touch of God and sensed the Spirit say, “But my dear child, you not home yet!”
These days, I think about my heavenly home more often and I was reminded of Heb. 12:1-3, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” (NIV)
I am being bruised in my heart and feel like amputating a part of my body as I serve the Lord, but l look forward to the day that I will be coming home! The great cloud of witnesses who went before me encourages me to keep fighting the good fight.
Have a great week everyone!