BROOKLYN, N.Y., FEBRUARY 13TH, 1940
BROOKLYN, N.Y., FEBRUARY 13TH, 1940
Mr. S. McCallum.
Beloved Brother, — I am indebted to you for two letters — both valued much.
My wife and I appreciate your sympathy with us in our great sorrow. It is great to us bearing on us personally. We think it right to so regard it, but we seek to look at it as affecting the saints, the Lord’s name and His testimony, and we are assured that this is more to us than the shame attached to ourselves and family. Natural conscience and feelings generally [p. 165] are affected by the latter, but Leviticus 10 shows that this cannot be allowed to interfere with the service of God. I had thought of being quiet for a while, but what was said to Aaron in this chapter decided me, especially as my brethren to whom I spoke of it fully concurred.
Still there is a voice for me — the evil being in those so near naturally and I am discerning “a thorn in the flesh” and hence seeking to be governed accordingly. The pressure of war conditions with this personal sorrow, also in the assembly, form a combination peculiarly felt. But the Lord is saying, “My grace suffices thee”.
I appreciate the invitation for the September meetings. I have accepted invitations to London, Ontario, Winnipeg, Rochester and Council Bluffs and am hesitating to commit myself on this side of the Atlantic further. Others from abroad may be available, especially Mr. Myles, who, I understand, is due on the West Coast in April. Besides, I am still exercised as to Great Britain, knowing the pressure the dear brethren are under, and hence if conditions at all warrant this I may cross, say, in June, God willing. Of course there will, no doubt, be meetings in Vancouver in September and A.E.M. could attend them.
I mention the above so that you may know of my exercises. The Toronto brethren wish me with them in October, God willing. My inclination, however, is to be at Detroit and if you do not hear from me within a few weeks you may expect me to be among you all during the special meetings.
I note your exercises as to citizenship, and we shall pray as to this that God may make a way for you. My impression is that this government will not be severe on British subjects. We should make plain to the authorities that we are aliens because of conscience, because of oaths required — not because of national feeling.
I am thankful for your remarks as to Cleveland — Bert Wyman spent Lord’s Day here 10 days ago and we were very glad to have him. Our prayers will go up for him. The Higgs have gone to Miami, I hear. You will be aware that Dr. Borden was killed by a motor — we feel this very much.
My wife unites in love in Christ to Mrs. McCallum and you and all.
Affectionately in Him,
James Taylor.