Daily Devotion

“I do not aspire to have the name 'William Milne' recorded in the annals of this world. I only ask that when the people of China open the Bible and read of God's love, they do not need to know who translated it, nor do they need to know who devoted their lives to it. As long as the truth is remembered and the translator's name is forgotten, that is the greatest reward for him.”

William Milne · Milne's Personal Devotional Diary

Scripture

Luke 17:9-10 Does a master thank his servant when he has done what he has been commanded to do? In the same way, when you have finished all that you have been commanded to do, you should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’

Reflection

Milne's philosophy of "the translator disappearing" serves as a profound reminder of our era's pursuit of "personal branding" and "presence." In a time when everyone tries to leave their mark on history books or social media, Milne yearns for his name to be overshadowed by the light of truth. He understands that the highest level of ministry is not "being remembered," but allowing the audience to directly encounter God, without caring who the "postman" who delivered the message is. This "invisible" ministry makes life exceptionally pure. Reflecting on our ministry and work, do we often subconsciously calculate whose contribution is greater? Do we, while striving for the foundation, also crave our own share of glory? Milne tells us that only when the "self" completely decays can Christ truly prosper in everything we do.