Northeastern Towers Annex is a newly opened housing facility in New York City. Seventh-day Adventists get involved in this project by ministering to the community's most vulnerable settlers.
More so, with the presence of government and civic leaders during the opening, the volunteers grabbed the opportunity to share with them our mission and vision. True enough, being of help to people in need is core to who we are as Seventh-day Adventists.
Over the years, much of the world's population has gone to the world's large cities. With this, God is calling us to reach them. Some years ago, we placed a renewed emphasis on Mission to the Cities. We need this same emphasis today as we move forward with the work.
In Medical Ministry, p. 304, Ellen White wrote, "There is no change in the messages that God has sent in the past. The work in the cities is the essential work for this time. When the cities are worked as God would have them, the result will be the setting in operation of a mighty movement such as we have not yet witnessed."
With this message, we have to prepare spiritually, guided by the Holy Spirit. As we work for the cities, let us pray for the latter rain to fall in abundance. However, we can only accomplish it through revival and reformation. Aside from this, we have to submit to God's Word and the Spirit of Prophecy with prayer and faith.
Also, we need our pastors and laypeople. As indicated by the Spirit of Prophecy, we even have to work with health professionals in a "blended ministry." With the support of our denominational organizations and ministries, we can win souls.
Now, the power to accomplish this task does not come from human beings, committees, or policies. Instead, it is in God's Word, Spirit of Prophecy, Holy Spirit, and diligent prayer.
Our united message is that of New Jerusalem. During His triumphal entry, Jesus saw the old city and wept over it. "If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes" (Luke 19:41-42).
Jesus' sadness was for the people of Jerusalem. Specifically, they lacked responsiveness to His love, salvation, and Word. Likewise, are we weeping for the people in the cities of this world? The time to grieve is now!
As such, let us plead for the Holy Spirit to guide us in accomplishing the task God has entrusted us. Let us dedicate ourselves to His plan, reaching as many souls as possible for Him.