Back in my freshman days in college I had a brief acquaintance with a young man named Eric. It was during a 2-hour break between classes and for some reason I took an immediate liking to this interesting young man. This was back in 1971 and Eric actually looked like the Poster child for the hippie movement of that era. He had long black hair, and beard, jeans, sneakers and beads, with a colorful band around his head. Man, I could only imagine the kind of excitement he would have created in our church in Harlem on a Sunday morning if only I could have got him there.
But the thing that I remember most about this teenager was not his appearance, but his magic. You see Eric was a real life magician. I had never before or since had the experience of a personal, front row seat encounter with an illusionist, performing trick after trick to my complete amazement!
After several minutes of watching him do the most remarkable things with a quarter, I said the most natural thing anyone would say- “teach me how to do that’!
I will never forget his response. He carefully looked me in my eyes and said, “Everybody asks the same thing-but no one ever wants to really take the time or make the effort to get it done!”
Our desire to transform lives in one of the most dynamic and challenging city on the planet will not be accomplished through casual attention to prayer, and perfunctory attendance at citywide rallies championing the cause of spiritual awakening. Rather, what is required is a deep commitment and dedication to God’s call to Mission. In John 20:21 – the resurrected Savior declares to his disciples “Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. (KJV)
One of my favorite verses is Psalms 17:15- As for me, I will behold your face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.” (KJV) There is nothing laid-back about that verse, but in fact it is quite intentional and direct. It is with this kind of drive and deep sense of purpose the spirit of the Fulton Street revival can be realized for a 21st century harvest of souls, in New York City and regions beyond.
I saw him only twice after that-and only from a distance. Each time I saw him it only intensified the searing message he left with me. I now wonder if he was in actuality an angel, a messenger from God, sent that I might occasionally be reminded what it will take to be all that God has called us to be in order to “get it done.” Think about it! |
