First, I want to thank the one or two people still reading my blog. That includes Michelle. Thank you for praying for me regarding my last post.
Secondly, regarding my last post, I think I have to repent. God showed up where I was most concerned – in the youth group and at church. That same Friday, we had average attendance, about 20-21 youths, but a great night. My fear that the youth didn’t have direction or clear passion was wrong. Through the discussions in small groups and in the energy at worship and in the sanctuary, I could sense God in the hearts of our youths. The night was a reminder to me that I should continue to pray for the hearts of the youths and not get discouraged because somehow God showed up in our youths. I must be faithful to pray and hopeful, knowing God will show up.
Thirdly, I preached on Sunday of that weekend. I believe it was one of the times where I truly felt good about my preaching in a long time. I felt well-prepared, I felt like I had a good command of the subject, and that I was, overall, engaging the people. This is not to be arrogant or prideful but I just sensed that as I was preaching, God was showing me who was listening. This encouraged me to keep sharing the Word of God to those in the room. And after the sermon was over, I didn’t beat myself up or get down on myself. I just thanked God.
I’m not really sure what all of this means but right now, I’m feeling pretty good about what God is doing at our church. He showed me what He could do the weekend after I wrote my last post, which was filled with worry and concern. Furthermore, I’m getting excited about ministry and possibly planting a church. Some day, I would love to plant a church and start up a new community of Christ followers. But that will be further down the road. For now, I just want to thank and praise God.
Thanks for reading.
Joe
