The Visit
by Hubert F. Sturges, www.everlastingcovenant.com , August 22, 2011
Ted sat in his office. Since he became president of his church organization, he had became known for his strong support for returning to the doctrines and the practices of the founders. There was a cost. He had been overwhelmed by mail, email, and phone calls. In asking for a change not everyone was happy. Many wanted to go "forward," not to "return" to what made this church great.
He had to limit access, or he just would not be able to get any work done. Calls were well screened or answered by assistants. Only people he approved could actually see him in his office. And today was a day set aside from all interruptions – so he hoped!
A call came from his secretary: "There is a Mr. Gabriel to see you."
"Is he on my list to see?"
"NO!"
"I can’t see him today. Maybe he can see one of the Vice-Presidents."
"Mr. President, there is something about him that makes me think you will want to see him."
Ted had learned to trust his secretary and to appreciate her advice. So he replied, "OK, send him in."
The door opened and a well dressed man in a light blue suit walked in. He was friendly, up-beat, energetic, and seemed intelligent. Something about him seemed familiar, but Ted could not put his finger on it.
Ted asked, "Mr. Gabriel, have we met?"
"Yes we have, Ted."
"Where?"
But it was already too late, Mr. Gabriel immediately got down to business. "I have some questions I would like to ask you about the church. How many members do you have?"
"Fifteen million, and growing daily. Thank the Lord." Ted beamed.
"How many of those members attend church regularly?"
Ted was more serious. "I estimate 10 million. In the affluent societies, less than half attend regularly. In third world countries, attendance is 90/% or better."
Mr. Gabriel looked thoughtful, then asked, "How many make a habit of taking part in Sabbath School, attending the other church meetings, coming to communion, and are active in the church?"
Ted thought for a minute, then said, "I would estimate 5 million."
"How many support the church financially, pay tithe and offerings?"
"Maybe 3 million."
"And how many study and meditate on the Bible every day?"
Ted was now uncomfortable. "One million. I wish it were more. This is where we need help."
"That is something that is very close to my heart, and we will get to that before we are finished," Mr. Gabriel said with a friendly smile. Ted knew he was safe with his new friend.
Mr. Gabriel went on, "How many are involved in some kind of witnessing?"
"Many in third world countries, but if you limit the number to those who fit the above criteria, I would estimate one half a million." Ted looked serious.
"How many know what they believe and would be able to answer questions about their belief? How many live the lifestyle we recommend as to healthful living and living a Christ-like life in their homes?"
Ted looked squarely at Mr. Gabriel, "I hope you ask these questions because you can help us. Here I really do not know, maybe 100,000."
Mr. Gabriel showed deep concern. Ted, you might know by now that I am not "Mr." Gabriel. I am Gabriel, sent here by Jesus to strengthen you in your work. At the beginning you asked if we had met. Yes, we have met many times, but this is the first time we have met in person. Like you I praise God for the fifteen million members. The message of Christ has spread widely over the earth, but it has not yet spread deeply. We do not have the 144,000, the first fruits of the Gospel ready yet.
Ted now had his head on the desk, weeping softly. Gabriel reached across the desk, took his hand and prayed, "O Lord, pour out your Holy Spirit to strengthen Ted in his work, and all those who work with him. Give him courage to meet opposition and wisdom to know your purpose day by day. I pray also that the church be made ready to receive the outpouring of the Holy Spirit Now, for the time is late.
Now, If I may, let me make a few comments: You have been given the Bible. You have churches, pastors and evangelists. There are established school and many teachers. And you have that special gift, the writings of Ellen G. White. With these gifts the church has done a great work.
We are living now in the prophetic time of the end. It is time to put all these things together and to finish the work started so long ago. You have now been called to lead in this effort. Every member – all 15 million of them are called to have a part. The blessings this church has received will open doors, we must use them for that purpose.
The Holy Spirit is just waiting for a people to make themselves ready and willing to be used. Then the Holy Spirit will give power and effectiveness and will finish the work.
Ted sat up, wiped his eyes, bent forward saying, "Really, Gabriel, really! Praise God! I know it will be done." Gabriel took his hands once more, and was gone.
