This was copied from the biography of Missionary Robert Moffat and is printed here as an encouragement. You may only do one thing in your life, or influence one person, but only God knows what that one thing will produce or that one person will become.
“An elderly preacher was rebuked by one of his deacons one Sunday morning before the service. “Pastor,” said the man, “something must be wrong with your preaching and your work. There’s been only one person added to the church in a whole year, and he’s just a boy.”
The minister listened, his eyes moistening and his thin hand trembling. “I feel it all,” he replied, “but God knows I’ve tried to do my duty.” On that day the minister’s heart was heavy as he stood before his flock. As he finished the message, he felt a strong inclination to resign.
After everyone else had left, that one boy came to him and asked, “Do you think if I worked hard for an education, I could become a preacher—perhaps a missionary?”
Again tears welled up in the minister’s eyes. “Ah, this heals the ache I feel,” he said. “Robert, I see the Divine hand now. May God bless you, my boy. Yes, I think you will become a preacher.”
Many years later an aged missionary returned to London from Africa. His name was spoken with reverence. Nobles invited him to their homes. He had added many souls to the church of Jesus Christ, reaching even some of Africa’s most savage chiefs. His name was Robert Moffat, the same Robert who years before had spoken to the pastor that Sunday morning in the old Scottish kirk.”
Lord, help us to be faithful. Then give us the grace to leave the results to you. (By Pastor Wagenschutz)
(Robert Moffat was a Scottish Congregationalist missionary to Africa, father of Mary Moffat Livingstone and father-in-law of David Livingstone, and first translator of the Bible into Setswana.)
