Dr. Livingstone, I Presume?

Last year I began reading an out-of-print biography of David Livingstone, a Scottish missionary explorer to Africa in the 1800's. As I read I jotted down meaningful quotes in a notebook. From time to time I would like to share some of these quotes that have inspired and encouraged me as Tracy and I have started this journey.

In a letter to Charles Livingstone, his brother, David wrote this response to Charles' appeal that he settle in America. "I am a missionary, heart and soul. God had an only Son, and He was a missionary and a physician. A poor, poor imitation of Him I am, or wish to be. In this service I hope to live; in it I wish to die."

Writing his last words from central Africa, Livingstone penned, "All I can add in my solitude is, may heaven's rich blessing come down on every one, American, English, or Turk, who will help to heal this open sore of the world." (Westminster Abbey Library and Archives)

While in London in 2005 Tracy and I had the wonderful privilege to visit Livingstone's grave in Westminster Abbey. On the north side of his grave's marker is the verse, John 10:16(AV). Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my Voice."