I believe our last visit was somewhat accidental but proved to be a divinely-orchestrated and fulfilling worship experience. God led us by this church on Saturday and planted the seed for a return visit.
I had my doubts when we were greeted by only one woman; I was being tempted to judge the church, but my fears were put to rest when I heard the sermon.
The chancel boasts a great wooden cross with brass insert and some delightful banners, one in particular with a 3-dimensional effect.
Communion was served early in the service: the elements were offered vocally by not only the pastor but also the elders, words of intinction were spoken not read, and the pastor was served.
From the number of updates given, the church folk seem to be involved in a number of activities.
I had the feeling that contemporary worship music might be new to this congregation as there was little enthusiasm. I thought when they got to the final hymn there might be some passion for “Open the Eyes of My Heart, Lord” which I find hard to sing without passion, but little changed.
The sermon was the first of a planned five-week series, today’s being “Power Tools: Understanding of Purpose.” I was concerned when there was no Scripture reading, but it was referenced throughout the message. The heart of the series is that we are called to be disciples for Christ, not any of the things we would rather be. We strive for comfort and that is not where Christ calls us. The reality is we should have great comfort in being disciples. Jesus is the greatest thing to happen to us, why are we hesitant to share the Good News?
The congregation was invited to stand for a covenant prayer to be disciples, and we will be praying for them.
At the end of the service the pastor made his way through the entire congregation to greet each worshiper. We got to spend a few minutes with the pastor after the service and confirmed my thoughts: this church has experienced spiritual warfare and Christ is blessing them as they move forward.
We first visited this church several years ago. The entryway has a friendly feel to it with a sort of living room arrangement on the right, coffee on the left, and a large table in the center sporting juice boxes and snacks. With lots of people milling about, greeting each other with smiles, hugs, and friendly kisses, I thought someone might recognize us as visitors. We were greeted warmly by a woman in our pew.
In the sanctuary, the buttery shade of the walls brought out similar shades in the stained glass, and the large cross in front was flanked by two projection screens which are used to full advantage although I wished the words were a bit larger and easier to read from the back.
The service began with a parody video by Tim Hawkins called “Cletus, Take the Reel” (you can view it on YouTube), and numerous members participated in the time for announcements.
Communion was served by intinction early in the service, and surprisingly the elements were offered verbally. That significant touch seems to be going by the wayside in most churches, so the sacrament was made even more special.
Today the series “Power Tools” began with the first installment, “Understanding of Purpose.” I felt like I was witnessing a family being told how things needed to change, and I suppose that’s pretty much what was happening. The pastor preached a courageous message that recognized the Great Commission as Christ’s statement of the purpose of His Church and identified Luke 9 and 10 as the path.
He stated that in efforts to attract new members most failing churches follow the path of inviting friends, relatives, and neighbors. (Personally I would add they also start new programs.) However Luke 9 and 10 identify Christ’s way of making disciples (which is, after all, His goal, and if you make disciples, both the church and the Church cannot help but grow). Christ’s method involves: 1 – teach a few to reach out to the world; 2 – have those few mentor others; and 3 – take the message to everyone.
He had the congregation stand and join in prayer to commit to making the changes necessary to get the church headed in a better direction.
I am convinced that if the congregation is willing to go along with their pastor and follow the path God has identified, they will be astounded at what God will do. Without exception, every time we honor His Son by our obedience, He blesses immeasurably beyond what we can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).
I am so excited for the future of this church! They will be in my prayers.
Dear Lord, we ask for Your continued encouragement for this church as they strive to do Your will. Help them to be true disciples for Christ. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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