Article June 7, 1913 Issue

FROM OUR EXCHANGES

with contributions from W. B. Selbie, J. Parton Milum

[The Congregationalist and Christian World.]

Each new generation, though it has its own tasks and triumphs, has also a right to ask of its predecessor that its starting place shall be advanced upon the road that leads humanity to its final goal. We of this generation cannot be content to hand down just what we received, to add no gain of our own winning. Shall the tree in autumn shed not only leaves, but also all its summer growth of branch and bough? Shall there be no advance of justice, knowledge, insight into the needs and opportunities of men for all our years of trial and endeavor? Our overcomings are a part of God's renewals. Our children will have their own work and care, but if we have done our part there will be some hindrances moved out of the way, some wisdom garnered, some progress made secure. If not, we stand condemned as faithless servants who have wasted what God committed to our care.

We are today in the midst of one of those springtime periods when God is working visibly to renew and regenerate the life of men. The growing sense of social responsibility, the desire that justice shall run before charity and prepare the way for freedom and brotherhood, the very restlessness that disturbs our easy-going thoughts and ways, are signs that God is working through the hearts of men for growth and for renewal. As the devout soul rejoices in the beauty of the spring, finding in it a token of God's renewing presence in the earth, so we find hope and offer thanksgiving for the spirit of a time that seeks to make justice and brotherhood at home in the affairs of men. The change will cost us something. There will be overturnings, misunderstandings, loss as well as gain. But the question we have to ask ourselves is whether these are the companions and necessities of growth, or the mere breaking down of aimless destruction and decay.

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