Vernon Pearson, “The Master is here”

My life began to change when the message of a radio evangelist brought me to my knees, and I accepted Jesus on April 3, 1954. Prior to this, I had been very depressed.

I went to a Christian college, still searching for a deeper understanding of God. This, too, was a very lonely experience. I couldn’t understand why I couldn’t have a more victorious life. In the fall of 1959 I prayed that God could begin a new work in my life. He certainly answered my prayers!

In 1965 while I was pioneering in Idaho, Father came to bless holy grounds. This was one of the deepest and most moving experiences, to meet Father, Mrs. Choi and the Korean missionaries. When I heard that Father was coming, I spent two or three days trying to make my apartment presentable. I stayed up all night and slept only two or three hours before he came.

I was getting dressed so I would be ready to greet him. Just as I was about to put on my tie, I heard David Kim’s voice at the door, saying, "The Master is here!" I felt a great expectation to meet the Messiah and also I was nervous. It was difficult to even carry on a conversation because all I could think was, "The Messiah is come!" As we were sitting there I felt inspired to ask whether I could bow down to Father. It wasn’t the traditional Korean bow, as I even touched his shoes! He smiled and touched my shoulders. This experience is a beautiful memory which I can never forget.

From 40 Years in America, p. 57.