Many years ago Mr. Nathan, a converted Jew and at that time a missionary in Morocco, was holding meetings in St. Louis. One evening he preached on the subject of "Hidden Ministers."
To illustrate a point, he told of a young Swede who was converted in one of Mr. Moody's meetings in Chicago. After his conversion the Swede came to Mr. Moody, asking what he could do for Jesus. Mr. Moody gazed at the young man, noting that he was awkward and illiterate. What could he do? Finally, Mr. Moody said: "How would you like to be a sandwich?"
"Anything, sir; anything for Jesus," said the young man, not having any idea what it meant. So it was arranged that he should report the next morning for duty. At the appointed hour the young man was there. They placed two boards, strapped together, on his shoulders. On one board was printed John 3:1616For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16) in full; on the other was printed a notice of the meetings then being held. "Now," said Mr. Moody, "you just walk up and down these streets for Jesus, and advertise the meeting."
The Swede went off smiling, happy that he could do something for the One who had saved his soul. As he went down Clark Street, rowdy boys were throwing stones and mud at the board. A traveling salesman saw him, and stopped to read the signs and watch the happy, smiling Swede. The sight of such joy in the midst of persecution aroused the man's sympathy and interest. He determined to attend the meeting that night. What happened? He was converted.
This man had a splendid voice, and after his conversion he made it a rule to sing in the missions of the cities which he visited. One night he was in the Bowery Mission in New York City singing the Gospel. Presently he saw a young Jew come in and take a seat in the audience. Attracted by the singing, he had entered the hall, not knowing the character of the meeting. When he heard them singing about Jesus, the Jew became restless, for he had been taught to hate that Name. The traveling man was watching him, and when finally the Jew started for the door, the salesman was there to meet him. He led him into an adjoining room, and told him personally about Jesus as his Messiah and Savior. The result was that the Jew accepted Christ and His salvation.
In closing, Mr. Nathan said: "The young Swede lies in an unknown grave in Chicago; the traveling man, too, has gone to his reward. But I am that Jew. I am now a missionary to Africa, seeking to win souls for Jesus. When we all stand before Him to receive our rewards according to our service, shall I receive all the reward for the souls won in Africa? How about the traveling man who led me to accept Christ? How about the Swede who did what he could for Jesus? Will he not receive his full reward because of his faithfulness?"