Readability
Original Sources
Devotional Quality
Avoids Hagiography
Biblical Clarity
| Field | China |
| Missionary | Eric Liddell |
| Author | David McCasland |
| Era | 1920s–1945 |
Overview
Eric Liddell (1902–1945) won Olympic gold as a sprinter, but this triumph pales in comparison with how God used him when he surrendered his athletic career and headed for China as a missionary. Author David McCasland takes us on a journey through Liddell’s life, and what a journey it is. McCasland reports on the races that led up to the Olympics, recounting the drama on the race track and off as Liddell strove to win while honoring and serving God to his best. The path turns and the story gets even better with Liddell’s decision to follow God to China where he serves first as a school teacher and later as an itinerant preaching in a war-torn region. The book shows us Liddell’s family life as he marries and children come. As World War 2 approaches, McCasland reveals the struggles that led to Liddell sending his family to safety while he remained to continue the work in China. The final chapters are perhaps the most riveting as Liddell finds himself in the Weihsien internment camp as a prisoner of war. His testimony shines to the end.
Every Christian should read the biography of Eric Liddell. His example will move you and stir you to surrender to God and serve Him better than ever before.
Highlights
- How Liddell navigated fame as a believer competing in the Olympics.
- How God led Liddell to China.
- Liddell’s testimony in the prisoner of war camp.
Quotes
- “I finally decided to put it all on Christ–after all if He called me to do it, then He would have to supply the necessary power” (p.71).
- “We are here to place before you the call and challenge of Jesus Christ. Many of us are missing something in life because we are after the second best.” (p.115).
Other Sources
Eric LIddell is highlighted in two of my missions devotionals, including the newest one, Daring Decision: a 31-Day Journey with those who Followed God’s Leading. In Daring Devotion, Day 20 and Day 24 focus on Liddell’s time in the internment camp in China.