In this day everyone must be tested, as the time of the
''chosen ones" to prove their worth is indeed very short. The day of
attainment is drawing to a close for them. The "first fruits" must be
ripened in spirit, mellowed in love, and consumed by their self-sacrifice and
severance. None other are acceptable as first fruits, and all who fail to
attain to the standard through the tests, are relegated to the "many who
are called."
- 'Abdu'l-Baha (Words of ‘Abdu'l-Baha in answer to questions asked by Dr.
Edward C. Getsinger during a few brief meetings at Haifa, January 26 to
February 5, 1915, and recorded by Dr. Getsinger at the time; Star of the West,
vol. 6, no. 6, June 24, 1915)
