A Scholar in Crisis
In the late 1800s, Pastor Hsi, born Xi Shengmo, faced a personal crisis that would alter the course of his life. A respected Confucian scholar from a wealthy family in Shanxi Province, China, Hsi was plagued by an inner turmoil and fear of death that no amount of scholarly success could alleviate. Seeking escape, he succumbed to the grip of opium addiction, despite knowing its dangers.
Encountering the Holy Spirit
Hsi's transformation began when he met David Hill, an English missionary working in famine relief. Hill introduced Hsi to the Christian faith, and as Hsi studied the New Testament, he encountered the Holy Spirit. On an autumn night in 1879, Hsi decided to follow Jesus, acknowledging his need to break free from opium's hold. He later shared, 'At last I saw, in reading the New Testament, that there was a Holy Spirit who could help men. I prayed to God to give me His Holy Spirit. He did what man and medicine could not do; He enabled me to break off opium smoking.'
The Demon-Overcomer
After his conversion, Hsi chose the name Shengmo, meaning 'Demon-overcomer,' signifying his victory over addiction. Baptized by Hill, Hsi devoted himself to serving others, establishing opium refuges across several provinces and creating a medical mission station in Deng Village. His centers not only helped addicts but also spread the Christian faith, with Hsi often seen praying for the sick and witnessing miraculous recoveries.
A Ministry of Healing
Hsi's ministry expanded with the support of the China Inland Mission, and he was ordained by Hudson Taylor in 1887. Known for his tireless energy and deep compassion, Hsi wrote numerous hymns and collaborated with notable missionaries like the Cambridge Seven. His life, marked by a profound relationship with God, left a lasting impact on countless lives in China. Pastor Hsi's story is a testament to the transformative power of Jesus, who healed him from addiction and empowered him to bring hope and healing to others.
