We
went from not being able to go to church last week to sort-of going to church.
Our
children planned to take us to lunch in celebration of our 34th
anniversary and we were to meet at 11. The service was at the greeting time right
before 11, so we excused ourselves with plans for a return visit.
I
wondered if the projection screen in the chancel alcove concealed a cross. The
man who led the singing was very passionate, but his shadow sometimes blocked
the words on the screen.
We
usually sit in the back so I don’t know if this was a first for me, for someone
to first kneel and then prostrate herself before the Lord.
There
were a lot of Amens to what the pastor said but often it was a steady mumble
making his words hard for me to hear.
I
have no doubt God called us to this church. There was a time of anointing and
prayers and encouragement to use Christ’s power to heal, which I am
particularly interested in. God has at times used me as an instrument to bring
miraculous healing to His children, but my healing ministry has been
sputtering.
We
look forward to visiting and worshiping with this congregation.
I
wished we could stay for the entire service, but we did not realize it would be
so long. Since our daughter and son-in-law were taking everyone out to lunch to
celebrate our anniversary (34 years!), we plan to return to this church.
When
we entered the building the singing had already begun, but we were still
greeted warmly. It was led by one gentleman with a great deal of enthusiasm and
minimal instrumental back-up. After the singing there was what appeared to be
an altar call for prayer and anointing with oil.
After
the hands-on prayer, the pastor voiced the prayer needs for several members and
recounted the story of the lame man whose friends dug through the roof of a
house in order to get their friend in front of Jesus for healing. He then
commented that it was “time to dig out the roof of Heaven for these people,” a
comment I found intriguing. The pastor prayed an intercessory prayer, and
immediately a woman in the congregation began speaking without obvious
prompting. For a couple of minutes she said things like, “Take the authority I’ve
given you, stand firm in your faith, take command as I’ve given you faith,
speak out in faith.” That was when I knew why God had led us to this church.
For
the last couple of weeks every time I turn around I have heard/read messages
encouraging me to speak. I don’t know yet where I’m supposed to speak or about
what, but it sure is making me wonder.
We
did not hear the sermon today, but we plan to return when we are without time
constraints. I’m certain it will be worth it.
Lord, we lift this church to You, praying You continue to bless and guide them in service that You may be glorified. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
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