Scripture: I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some (1 Corinthians 9:22 NKJV).

It has been said of Hudson Taylor, founder of the China Inland Mission, “No other missionary in the nineteen centuries since the apostle Paul has had a wider vision and carried out a more systematized plan of evangelizing a broad geographical area.”[1] He served in China fifty-one years, and his organization was responsible for bringing over 800 missionaries to the country, who started 125 schools and directly resulted in 18,000 Christian conversions.

However, the beginning of his ministry was anything but favorable. When he first arrived in Shanghai, he found a cool welcome and soon found himself referred to as the “black devil” because of his dark overcoat. He decided to wear the traditional dress of the Chinese, even with a queue—a long pigtail and shaved forehead. This decision helped him relate to the suspicious people of that nation and introduce the Gospel to hungry hearts

He relied upon the Lord’s provision for himself and his family and hung in his home a plaque with two Hebrew words on it: EBENEZER and JEHOVAH JIREH. The first word means “Hitherto hath the Lord helped us.” The second word means, “The Lord will see to it or provide.” One looked back while the other looked forward. One reminded him of God’s faithfulness and the other of God’s assurances.

Hudson’s example of service and sacrifice inspired generations. His sons and grandsons, all bearing his name, continue his work. Pray for the people of that great land.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us share Your message, and give us the wisdom to forsake any prideful ways so others will accept us. Thank You!

[1] Ruth Tucker, From Jerusalem to Irian Jaya: a Biographical History of Christian Missions. Zondervan, 2004