Letter to Christians

By L. E. Ketcherside

[Page 11]

     Dear Brethren: When traveling over the highways or through the cities of our nation, have we not many times thrilled see a sign on a bulletin board or over the door of a meeting place reading, "The Churches of Christ Salute You." But have you ever seen "The Church of Christ" heading a disaster relief program? Would such a position not afford a wonderful opportunity to confirm our relationship to the One who found joy in relieving every kind of affliction? Perhaps there are some congregations that are awake to such opportunities, but many congregations are not. Brethren, do not say, "We are just not able to render assistance at this time." There is always something that every congregation can do if it is nothing more than to take a water drenched child or a weeping mother into your home and share with them the comfort of a glowing fire.

     I have just returned from a second trip into an area of our Missouri Lead Belt where more than 200 homes and business places were destroyed by a violent tornado. Many structures were swept to the bare foundations. Some families were wiped out. Others are broken and bleeding and will be separated for months to come. Many individuals will be invalids for life. Mothers were bowed and weeping on the site where their home once stood. Fathers with faces ashen grey, walked about silently. They were sensing a very great loss in material things. Sure]y, "God giveth, and God taketh away." I wondered how many of those grief-stricken people were appreciating the three wonderful God-given assets they still retain--time, life and soul. By properly utilizing time and life they can procure for their souls a home where tempest can not harm. The price to pay? Just correspond our giving with our receiving.

     Early in May, Carl and I spent four days down in the Missouri "boot heel" in the vicinity of my labors back in the early twenties. I met several whom I had immersed more than a quarter of a century ago, and was made very happy to find them still in the Master's service, and that their love and respect for me had never grown cold. Also, I met some brethren that I had met in other parts before, and we had the pleasure of meeting many fine brethren for the first time. When I labored in that section--from Dexter, Mo., to Blytheville, Ark., there was not an "all weather" road in the entire area. We either plowed through sand and gumbo or through water. We had a choice of wearing hip boots or walking the railroad when going from one town to another. The chief means of transportation was the wide-tired farm wagon. Most of my preaching was in rural school houses, on lumber piles at a saw mill camp, or under the shade of trees. I never had trouble getting an audience. If they did not come to the place I announced, I went to the place where they were assembled.

     In some places my audiences were rather unruly. They repeatedly threatened me with an egg shower if I returned the next week, but when I returned, they had changed their minds. On one occasion the building was set on fire after I had left it. Another building was nailed shut with large nails to prevent my speaking in it. However, I found many very fine people in that area, and immersed a large number of them. Now the general area is very highly developed. No such conditions are now prevailing. The best of roads are criss-crossing the country, and on this trip I had to use a road map to find my way around. Even though those days were hard, I do not regret that I lived them, especially after clasping the hands of those I immersed, some of whom are gray and feeble, and know that they are among God's faithful servants.

     (Note: Those who desire to write to Bro. L. E. Keteherside, may address him at his home, which is located at 306 North Main Street, Farmington, Mo. He will welcome your letters.)