April 9, 2026
— Wikipedia · Source: Wikipedia, "John Robert Morrison" (citing the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography et al.)
"When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." —Matthew 9:36
When the world judges others by political stances, cultural barriers, or xenophobic sentiments, Christians are called to have eyes that "go beyond appearances." The Qing Dynasty's xenophobia, seen as foolish by the world, is, from a salvational perspective, the struggle and defense of "sheep without a shepherd." When faced with rejection, indifference, or even hostility, do we choose to stand on moral high ground and "contempt," or do we bow down and "have compassion"? John Robert Morrison, amid heavy official duties, still supported persecuted Chinese believers and revised the Chinese Bible—faithful stewardship of the talents and position God had given him. True service begins with seeing through the thorns of others and acknowledging their suffering.
Dear Savior Christ, thank You for traveling through every city and village, and for going to the cross out of compassion for the harassed and helpless. Lord, grant me a heart as perceptive and gentle as John Robert Morrison's, so that when I meet coldness and estrangement around me, I may not despise others but be moved with compassion. Remove the narrow prejudices from my heart, and let me see the deep thirst for truth in every soul. Lord, send me, and let me not despise the small task You have entrusted to me. When the door of the Gospel seems closed, give me the willingness and courage to keep laboring. May I be a lamp in Your hand, living out Your love and true light in this land. May Your mercy flow through my life until all nations hear the name of the Savior. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.