Vol 1:3 (March, 1955)
Editorial
As the writer was preparing the rough draft for this editorial, a subscription order came in from a lonely spot in Ontario’s far North. On the desk, at the same time, lay a letter from a missionary in the heart of Africa, Mr. T. Ernest Wilson, expressing his appreciation of the new magazine and promising us some articles for future issues. Then, a glance at our growing list of readers showed that “FOOD for the FLOCK” is reaching other beloved saints who are in isolated places and not privileged to listen to a variety of oral ministry. The editors are happy to know that these fellow-members of the Body of Christ are being strengthened, sustained and cheered through the messages printed in these pages.
It has not been possible for us to reply immediately to all the letters that have been received. However, your comments and criticisms are appreciated and are given careful consideration by the editorial staff and the advisory committee.
A number of enquiries were received from subscribers who had not received their February copy on time, and we feel that an explanation is necessary. In order to serve us better, our printer was installing new typesetting equipment and certain unforseen delays occurred, which held up production in that department. A further delay came when the Ontario Hydro Electric Commission came into Thorold to change over to 60 cycle service, tying up the motors in the press room while this conversion was taking place.
In the makeshift arrangement for getting the February issue to our readers, a different type face was used, which took up more space than customary, and when last minute deletions of copy were made, some typographical errors resulted. We are sure, however, that most of our readers will have gathered from the context that Psalm 37 was the basis for Mr. Wilkie’s article on “The Cause and Cure of Fretting.”
Such are some of the problems that arise in the early stages of a new venture, and we learn by these experiences. Therefore we are confident that, through the excellent co-operation we are receiving from our printer, you will in months to come receive a more attractive “FOOD for the FLOCK”—and delivered closer to our publication date, which is the 15th of the month.
The picture which is appearing on the front cover at present, has created much interest. This is an actual photograph from the Holy Land, taken to illustrate the expression in Psalm Twenty-Three, “Thou anointest my head with oil.” Have you noticed how peaceful and contented the sheep are, gathered around their shepherd?
Such happy harmony should characterize us who are the Lord’s if we are conscious of His presence in our midst and if we are walking closely by His side. How tragic when we grow cold in heart toward the Beloved Master, for it is then that we wander away and find it so easy to “forsake the assembling of ourselves together.” In such a backslidden condition we become critical of others, yet so slow to judge ourselves. We trust and pray that the preparation and the reading of “FOOD for the FLOCK” will bring us all nearer to the Lord Jesus Christ and make Him more precious to our hearts.
Special attention is drawn to the article in this issue entitled “Christian Stewardship,” prepared by James Kennedy of Chicago. Mr. Kennedy is a businessman who has devoted much of his time to the service of God’s people; he is secretary of the monthly publication, “Letters of Interest,” which many of our readers already receive.
In the Expository Section, Robert McClurkin presents the second of three articles in a series. These are based on the study of First Corinthians, chapters 12, 13 and 14. There is no need to tell you more about the contents of this issue. You may read them for yourself.
When you have enjoyed “FOOD for the FLOCK”, think of some friend who is shut-in or isolated, perhaps a foreign missionary who would appreciate a copy each month. May we suggest that you send in a gift subscription for him?