August 16, 2026
— Arthur T. Polhill-Turner · Source: "A Year's Experience in China" (June 1886), in B. Broomhall, ed., The Evangelisation of the World (1889)
Acts 20:24 But I consider my life neither precious nor valuable, only to finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus, as a testimony to the good news of God’s grace.
The world often measures success by titles and stability, but Paul and Arthur Polhill-Turner anchored their lives to a heavenly calling. True value lies not in avoiding storms or winning applause, but in valuing the mandate entrusted to them above personal gain. In the daily details of work, family, and life, God has left unique, small missions. We don't need to do anything earth-shattering; we only need to stand firm where God has placed us, put aside calculation and indifference, and use faithful words and deeds and sincere love to bring the light of Christ into the troubled and dark corners around us.
Dear Heavenly Father: Thank You for giving me life and the mission you have entrusted to me today. Deliver me from the pursuit of worldly praise, grant me a clear and steadfast heart, and anchor the center of my life to Your mission. Open my eyes so that I may see the needs of those around me; grant me keen love and courage to be a messenger of love and hope in my daily words and deeds. May I walk each step of the present moment with sincere faithfulness, illuminating the darkness with my small light, and living a life that testifies to the gospel of Your grace. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen!