Preface

1/6/1996

This novel is about Christianity as you have probably never experienced it but have always known, deep in your heart, it should be. Be like the Pearl merchant that Jesus commended and treasure this Dream—His Dream—in your heart. Let it fill your soul and alter your destiny forever!

God is building something that is made of His Son Jesus, worthy of His Abiding Presence for all Eternity. It is being forged at this very moment in the hearts of those who care. He is enlisting men and women with the vision, courage, and a willingness to pay the price of bringing to a conclusion the Ancient Task. As weak and foolish as we are, that’s what we must be pursuing, with all of our hearts.

While it may seem like the Church has a long, long way to go in order to fulfill her calling…don’t be disheartened. It will happen! As our brother Zechariah encouraged some builders of God’s House long ago—in a time when things looked bleak:“Do not despise the day of small beginnings.” (Zechariah 4:10)

MAIN CHARACTERS

Hampton Street

Wayne Davidson ——Pastor

Emily Davidson ——Wayne’s wife

Blake, Amanda, Ashley ——Wayne’s children

Hal Ramsey ——Elder

Virginia Ramsey ——Hal’s wife

Tom Hartley ——Elder

The Campus

Rick Adams ——Student

Eric ——Rick’s roommate

Amy ——Rick’s girlfriend

George Archer ——Bible professor

Pine Ridge

Ted and Carolyn Stone

Alan and Marsha Hart

Brian and Susan Stephens

Don Chambers

Metro Chapel

Nelson Reynolds ——Senior Pastor

Phil Malone ——Associate Pastor

Steve and Teresa Parker ——Home group leaders

Others

Tony Veneziano ——Local waiter

Mark Wallace ——Friend from out of town

Luis Rodriguez ——Friend from out of town