war.
We have heard much about Christian union; no evidence of such is
noticeable at the Front--at least amongst the accredited
representatives of the various religious organizations. Emphasis is
placed upon denominationalism, and more heart-burnings have been
caused amongst the men in consequence of the divisions amongst the
Churches than amongst the home folks at the fancied increasing
irreverence and indifference of the men regarding the things that are
esteemed sacred. The men give evidence of being disposed to stand
outside of all _human_ creeds. Their query is not 'Are you a member of
a certain religious organization?' but 'Are you a member of _The
Church_?' Their views of Christianity are as simple as they are
scriptural. The soldiers are beginning to realize that what matters
most is not whether a man is a member of a certain Church, but _is he
a Christian?_ Just as the people of Russia have freed themselves of
the yoke of autocratic government, so I predict that the most potent
contribution towards bringing about Christian union will come not from
the recognized leaders of the Churches, but from the soldiers on
active service who have been impressed with the impotence of the
existing system to bring about that condition which represents the
ideal of Christianity, and the answer to our Lord's prayer, 'that all
may be one in Him.'
If the Allies were to strive for peace and the overthrow of evil in
the same manner as the Churches are seeking the overthrow of evil and
the effecting of Christian union, they might well give up the
conflict. Prolongation of the war and ultimate defeat could be the
only issue.
Many have learned to know themselves better. They have been made
cognizant of their weaknesses and their strength--what they are
capable of and where they fall short.
Life at the Front affords unique opportunities for studying men. One
is brought into such close contact with them. Every one is different,
each having his own characteristics, his own eccentricities--each a
distinct and separate personality. A man sees why this one succeeds
and why that one fails--he succeeds himself, and learns to have
confidence.
Perhaps he fails and learns humility, and, maybe, because he has
failed at one job he is given another, and he finds that he can 'make
good.' Few, if any, ever dreamed that they were capable of performing
the tasks which are daily assumed by or assigned to them.
Following upon a man getting
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