Once when preaching in China (Taiwan), I tried to do so Chinese-style. I told my
listeners a story from the Chuen-Chin period of Chinese history (15'h B.C.)
Tso-Po-Tao went on a journey with Yang-Chao-Ai, during which they were overtaken
by a heavy snowstorm. Unprepared for this, they had neither the clothing nor the
food to survive. Tso-Po-Tao offered to undress and give all his clothing and
food to Yang-Chao-Ai so that he at least might be saved. Yang refused, but in
vain. Tso was already naked and half-frozen. Tso died, and Yang's life was
spared.
As is my custom, I had thought much upon my sermon before delivering it. In deep
meditation, one has a sense of the reality of the persons who pass through the
mind. It was almost as if I had heard with my own ears the words of Tso-Po-Tao:
"I give my body for you." I saw him undressing while the snow fell. After
removing his jacket and feeling the sharp cold, he surely must have felt a
strong temptation to keep at least his shirt for himself. But his face shone
more and more. His features became even more determined. He did not stop before
he was completely naked, like the first couple in paradise, who had no cause for
shame. I marvelled at his sacrifice and admired him as yang-Chao-Ai must have
admired him. Certainly his surviving friend would never forget this moment that
held the grandeur of eternity.
Wurmbrand, Richard. In the Face of Surrender. North Brunswick, NJ, Bridge-Logos
Publishers, 1998, p. 11-12.
Www.persecution.com
The Illustrator: This daily newsletter is dedicated to encouraging
everyone to look towards Jesus as the source of all the solutions to our
problems. It contains a daily inspirational story, a Bible verse and encouraging
messages. HTML and plain text versions available.
The Nugget: Published three times a week, this newsletter features inspirational devotionals and mini-sermons dedicated to drawing mankind closer to each other and to Christ.