Daily Devotion

“But, if this is so, we are standing on holy ground. There will therefore be no question, either, of winning over Buddhism in China in any outward manner, but rather of winning Buddhists from within, so that they, in their own peculiar way, may move into Christ's great temple, and take their place there as gleaming jewels in His crown.”

Karl Ludvig Reichelt · Truth and Tradition in Chinese Buddhism (tr. Kathrina Van Wagenen Bugge, Shanghai: Commercial Press, 1928), Introduction, pp. 6-7

Scripture

Acts 17:23 As I was traveling and looking at the things you worship, I came across an altar that was inscribed with the words, 'The unknown God.' Now I will tell you about the things you worship without knowing them."

Reflection

Paul, upon seeing the altar of the "unknown god" in Athens, did not rebuke it but instead used it as an opportunity to proclaim the truth. Similarly, Reichelt reminds us that missionary work is not a proud conquest, but rather entering the hearts of seekers with love. We often judge others' faith and confusion from a superior position, neglecting the deep longing for light within people's hearts. Only by setting aside arrogance and listening and understanding with humility can we, like Paul, gently guide people's vaguely sought hope to the ultimate fulfiller—Jesus Christ—who has already been prepared.