Amidst the stirring scenes of God raising up laborers across America—crowded farewell gatherings, spontaneous offerings, and hearts set ablaze for China—one quiet moment stood out to Hudson Taylor:

Very different from these stirring scenes was the memory that lingered in Mr. Taylor’s heart with special sweetness. It was in Mr. Frost’s hometown of Attica the incident had taken place, at one of the first farewell meetings. The father of a dear girl in the party, Miss Susie Parker, had come over from Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and was sitting near the platform. Seeing a wonderful light on his face, Mr. Taylor invited him to say a few words.

“He told us with a father’s feelings,” Mr. Taylor loved to recall, “what his daughter had been in the home, to him and to her mother; what she had been in the mission-hall in which he worked, and something of what it meant to part with her now.”

“But I could only feel,” he said, “that I have nothing too precious for my Lord Jesus. He has asked for my very best; and I give, with all my heart, my very best to Him.”

The phrase “Nothing too precious for my Lord Jesus” became the most valuable lesson I learned in America, blessing me immensely ever since. Often, amidst heavy correspondence, when it’s time for united prayer, I’ve pondered whether to continue working. But then, I remember that phrase, and it guides me to prioritize fellowship (with Christ), leaving tasks for later, experiencing unburdened joy.

In the early mornings, even when tired, that time is unparalleled for connecting with the Lord, tuning my spirit for the day’s challenges. The phrase echoes again, “Nothing too precious for my Lord Jesus”, inspiring me to rise, refreshed, knowing fatigue fades in His presence. This mindset has also supported me in parting from my loved ones in England, proving countless times how God has blessed me through these words.

Chapter 30 | Hudson Taylor And The China Inland Mission: The Growth of a Work of God