It happened unexpectedly.
I had just stepped through the revolving door onto LaSalle Blvd in downtown Chicago It was then I heard the sound above the rumble of downtown afternoon traffic. Could it be?
The unmistakable strains of “Just as I Am.” Where was the music coming from? As I stepped on to the corner of City Hall, I was swept up into a fog of sorts.
Though the music playing was instrumental, I could hear the words in my head.
And I looked out at the faces on Randolph Street and wondered… What if this was a giant urban Billy Graham outreach? What if the music I was hearing was the altar call? What if every person I saw was heading forward to pray and receive Christ?
Just as I am without one plea—
That's for the lady watering flowers in front of the hotel.
But that thy blood was shed for me.
There's a well-dressed businessman coming now.
And that thou bidst me come to thee
Over there— a cab driver's getting out of his car.
O Lamb of God, I come….
Look—is that the city council coming forward?
Just as I am thou wilt receive
Hundreds now. Touching elbows. Quickening their pace.
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve
Some of them are crying. And I myself am fighting tears.
Because thy promise I believe,
See them all? Weeping…praying?
O Lamb of God, I come….I come.
Alas…the music faded as I walked toward the train station. And with it the strange vision.
But why shouldn't it be so?
Why shouldn't it?
Lord Jesus…visit our cities.
And may our personal holiness pave the way.