Duane Witmer

Some of the most well-received words of our Lord are found in Matthew 11:28. Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
This is an invitation from our Savior. Yet, as He walked among men, He was one who knew little rest. Day after day, the crowds followed; begging for healing, for teaching, for signs, and for miracles. Some nights He prayed all night. One night, He went walking on the water. And by His own testimony, the Son of man hath not where to lay His head (Matt. 8:20).

It’s that time of the year again when all good Americans unite in setting aside a holiday of remembrance. Independence Day is the official anniversary of the signing and distribution of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

In Acts 15, the church leaders were having an assembly to discuss and dispose of a matter which was causing stress in the brotherhood. First Peter, then Paul had taken the Gospel to the Gentiles. In general, there was much rejoicing and acceptance that God was receiving both Jew and Gentile in the new kingdom.

"For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! But they have not all obeyed the gospel.

Voluntary service is a relatively new concept in the history of man. In many cultures, it is still more or less unknown. It is an aspect of living known only to cultures operating outside the bounds of survival mode.