BROOKLYN, N.Y., MARCH 11TH, 1943
[p. 308] BROOKLYN, N.Y., MARCH 11TH, 1943
Mr. P. Lyon.
Beloved Brother, — I duly received your letter of December 22nd. Letters from New Zealand take about 30 days to reach us.
All the items of news you kindly sent were much appreciated. Others as well as ourselves were glad to get your report of the work in New Zealand. The dear brethren out there are much on our hearts. We think of them especially in relation to the many of the younger men who are in the Forces. We are very sympathetic with those of them who have families and the same exercise includes those of Australia. The brethren in both Dominions have a great place in our sympathies and prayers in view of the great pressure upon them all and hence we are very glad to hear that the interest among the saints in the things of God continues and that there is meat in due season. There can be no doubt that the prayers of the brethren are being answered in the way ‘the bitter and hasty nation’ of the north has been held in check. God’s hand is against the terrible uprising both in Europe and in Asia.
We have been hearing of the many the Lord has taken to Himself in Australia and the bereaved are much on our hearts. The most recent are Mr. Phillips of Melbourne, and Mr. Clarke of Brisbane. The latter especially will be much missed. In this country and Canada there is much indeed to encourage for which we thank God. The number of young men inducted into the services increases steadily and they are much on our hearts as you can understand. Generally they are far away from meetings which, of course, is a great disadvantage. The reports we receive from them are most cheering, a steady stand being taken by nearly all for right principles. There has been considerable suffering in Canada but as facts as to the history of the brethren have been laid before the authorities in Ottawa, we are hopeful of more consideration in the future. Of our immediate family, ——— has been inducted and his testimony is most encouraging. His brother Arthur is in the Navy. He, however, is not in fellowship. Benjamin, Jim’s son, was inducted last Friday, and I need not say that the parents and ourselves feel it very much. His mother has been very poorly lately but she is making some progress through the mercy of God.
The usual annual meetings are scheduled for this year and [p. 309] we are much cast upon God that there may be rain from heaven for His weary heritage. I hope to attend the following special meetings, God willing: London in April, Knoxville and Rochester in May, Minneapolis in July, Vancouver in September, and Toronto in October. I have already mentioned the names of several in these parts and elsewhere in Canada and the United States whom the Lord is using to give a lead in those general meetings. I need not remark on a similar provision in Great Britain and Australasia, for all of which we are most thankful to God.
Mr. Markham has been laid up for about seven weeks resulting from injuries from a fall. He left the hospital last week and is steadily recovering through God’s mercy to him. His two sons and one son-in-law are in the Forces. You will be receiving news from Great Britain so that I need not mention any items. I had a good letter yesterday from Arne Lidbeck and my wife had a nice letter during the past few weeks from Mrs. Hansen. The Lord is encouraging them in Scandinavia although those in Denmark and Norway especially are under much pressure.
I trust your health continues good. No doubt you will be thankful when God is pleased to open up the way for you to return to England. My wife unites in love in Christ to yourself and to the brethren as you have opportunity.
Affectionately yours in Him,
James Taylor.