RELIGION

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 76, Issue 111, 13 May 1933, Page 11

RELIGION

THE CHRIST OF THE ENGLISH ROAD, by Two Wayfarers, (Hodder and Stoughton); pp. 126. In lucid phrase, charged with spiritual insight and moral dynamic, the authors of “The Christ of the English Road” have given a bird’s-eye view of English history and portrayed the English character from a point of view that is ’ too rarely taken The pre-eminent fact with which they are here concerned is the historic influence of Christ. “In the case of English civilisation, to which the following pages are restricted, this pre-eminent historical fact is so shiningly manifest that we confess to losing all patience with those numerous historians who have so stupidly ignored it or so egregiously slighted it.” They would have us see Christ as the Wayfarer in every stage of England’s life, and as the dynamic influence in the formation of the English character, with the realisation that character makes destiny. Thus, after tracing this in the days that are past, they look at the world of to-day and endeavour to make articulate the charge committed by God to the England of to-day, and of to-morrow. The very condition of modern affairs constitute, in their view, a direct challenge to the Empire whose citizens have been charged with unique characteristics to meet that situation. They see Christ as the Supreme Figure on the highway of England’s development and expansion, and they see Him now calling England to follow Him in the path of emancipation. “Not for a small thing in man’s destiny has the Englishman been trained all down the age.s of Christian civilisation, and, Christ with him on the English road, he will accomplish what is required of mankind, and, when that work is done, look up to his Master for the next.” This treatise is no jingoistic appeal to imperialism and national pride, although one is naturally stirred by the vivid, descriptive writing concerning the greatness that is England; there is rather engendered the fervent prayer and earnest desire that our nation may press forward to the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. It should inspire all readers to more purposeful living and doing. Discrimination is shown in regard to the weaknesses as well as the strength and virtue of our national character, so that we are counselled wisely regarding some things to be overcome as we go forward. The publishers have done well to publish this provocative volume in their shilling library.