"The needs of these people press upon my soul, and I cannot be silent. It is grievous to think of these human souls going down to death without even one opportunity of hearing the name of Jesus. People talk vaguely about the heathen, picturing them as scarcely human, or at best, as ignorant barbarians. If they could live among them as I do, they would find in the men much to respect and admire; in the women and girls they would see many sweet and loving traits of character. They would feel, pressing upon their heart and conscience, the duty of giving the gospel to them. It does seem strange that when men and women can be found willing to risk life—or, at least, health and strength—in order that these people may hear the gospel, that Christians withhold the means to send them. Once more I urge upon the consciences of my Christian brethren and sisters the claims of these people among whom I dwell. Here I am working alone in a city of many 11 thousand inhabitants, with numberless villages clustered around or stretching away in the illuminate distance: how many can I reach?"
Lottie Moon was appointed a missionary to China July 7, 1873. She gave her life and love in devotion to her beloved Chinese people. She died December 24, 1912. This letter was published in the January 1888 Foreign Mission Journal. In it she calls for support as she and others seek to carry the Gospel to those who need Jesus. Will you prayerfully give to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering?