IT was somewhere in France, in one of the rest camps occupied by a battalion just out of the trenches, that a young private was trying to serve his Master by using the opportunity to distribute a parcel of tracts that had been sent to him by the Christians at home. He sought to speak a kindly word as he passed on the little Gospel messages to his comrades. Some received them gladly, doubtless remembering the escapes they had had while serving in the front trenches; others were indifferent and cared little for such things; but our young friend proceeded, seeking only to please his Lord and ever lifting up his heart that God would bless both the printed and spoken message to some needy soul. Coming across a very young soldier, he gave him that well-known tract entitled, “Can you undo?” and with a little word was ‘passing on when he was struck with the expression on the lad’s face as he gazed at the title. Turning back and putting his hand upon his shoulder, he said kindly, “What’s the matter, chum?” With a sob the young fellow exclaimed, “Oh, my God, I wish I could undo my life since I joined the Army!” and then, touched by the sympathy shown him, told the story (alas! all too common).
At home he had a godly father and mother and a loving sister, all of whom had committed him to the Lord as he was leaving them after his last furlough. His mother’s good-bye haunted him, and now he remembered afresh her parting message: “Never leave God out of your life, my son, and look ever to the Lord Jesus for guidance. He will keep you whatever the circumstances.” Alas! what a change! Neglect of prayer and reading God’s Word had commenced a decline that had led him into depths of sin. Drink, gambling, immorality held him fast, but now his conscience was awakened, he remembered the words of that one whom he revered so much, and with a heart filled with remorse and shame he cried, “Oh, if I could only undo!” But the past could not be undone; yet, thank God, it could be forgiven, for the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth from all sin.
Possibly this story may fall into the hands of someone who has forgotten his mother’s God, and, like the prodigal, has gone into the far country. Like him may you come to yourself and say, “I will arise and go to my Father, and say unto Him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and in Thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called Thy son; make me as one of Thy hired servants.” Then you will discover afresh the Father’s love, and will receive a Father’s welcome.
May this little incident lead our readers to continue in unceasing prayer for these dear lads, many of whom have left Christian homes, that they may be kept from the snare of the Evil One; also to pray for the young men who are seeking to serve the Lord in their regiments, that their testimony may be used in leading many of their comrades to Christ. From “Links of Help”