I AM IN THE MIDST by Christian Advocate

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Sep 19, 1900

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 26, No. 38.

"I AM IN THE MIDST."

By Christian Advocate

AN ingenious dreamer has recently published a tract relating a dream in which he had a visit from the Lord Jesus. The effect of that visit upon the conduct of the household was manifest. Certain inelegancies and improprieties of conversation which were not considered sinful were laid aside for the time being. The use of wine was abandoned, and visiting the theater was given up, not because these things were considered wrong, but they did not seem to be exactly proper while the Lord was being entertained.

The dreamer was accompanied to church one day by his distinguished Guest, and, altho the preacher, of whose abilities and gifts this parishioner was proud, preached a great sermon on a very deep subject, he was somewhat ashamed, feeling that it was not exactly the kind of sermon one should preach in the presence of Jesus.

If the fact of His presence were always realized, what a difference it would make in the preaching, praying, and singing! What a difference it would make in the words used in business transactions and social conversations! All worship, all giving, and all living should be conducted as in His presence. This thought should banish our fears, chasten our speech, assuage our griefs, and surround us with the atmosphere and sunlight of heaven while journeying through a vale of tears.

When a newly-elected President of the United States, who is known to be a church-member or a church-goer, is about to take up his temporary abode in the capital of the nation, great anxiety is manifest among the members of each congregation connected with the denomination to which he belongs or toward which he inclines, to have him worship with them. It has been currently and publicly reported that industrious efforts have been made by church people in Washington to induce the President to go here or there. The dignity and propriety of such a proceeding is open to question, but no one can think it strange that any congregation should desire the presence of so distinguished a worshiper. The presence of the President attracts a multitude, increases the revenues of the church, and affords a certain satisfaction to those who are associated with him once a week in holy exercises. It is an honor to preach before the President of the United States every Sunday. The members of the choir must prize the privilege of discoursing music for the ears of the chief magistrate of the greatest nation on earth.

How few consider that One far more worthy is always present in every worshiping congregation! He does not wait to be invited. No special pew need be set apart for His accommodation. Wealth, station, fine music, and eloquent preaching furnish no inducements to Him. He is present in the most obscure church, with the poorest people. He is not confined to one congregation. His presence means more than the presence of the President. If His presence is properly recognized, the multitude will be attracted. Benefits which the presence of no human being can insure will follow His steps. He says, "I am in the midst." He does not state the object of His visit. It is enough to announce the fact.—Christian Advocate.