I love my church! There is not much more to be said then that. I love the people,. I love the preaching. I love the focus on God’s glory. I love the growth I have experienced in my own life through it. I love the challenges. I love that though it is imperfect, I can see Christ who is perfect, refining it. I love my church!
With that said, there are challenges. We are a small church, which means volunteers do most things. We don’t have a professional worship team. There are awkward moments when our sound does not go right. We do not have a professional secretary, I know because I am the secretary. Because we are small, we can’t hide in a crowd. Which means, we see each other often and can rub each other the wrong way. If something is going on in our lives, most people know about it. We are not flashy, simply because we can’t be flashy. In a culture driven by commercialism, the endless pursuit of worldly perfectionism, and entertainment we simply do not have what it takes to compete.
So what’s my point? To be honest… I am not sure. I long to see my church grow, but not because I long for huge crowds. I want it to grow because Jesus Christ is worthy of all praise, honor, and majesty. He is worthy of more people knowing that worth and bowing down before him. I want to see my church grow into a place where the passion for His glory is undeniably evident. I want to see more people going into our community and proclaiming His glory. I want to see my church giving thousands of dollars to make disciples in Africa, China, and the Middle East. I want us to dig wells, build houses, and provide medicine for those with Malaria and AIDS. These things seem impossible with a church of 65 people. But, since when is God limited to what I think is possible?
Rebuilding a church is not easy! It takes people who can see the strength in what we have, and look beyond the weaknesses. It takes people who have a vision for future potential, rather than what it right in front of their faces. It takes people who realize everyone must pull their weight; the “someone else will do it” mentality just won’t cut it. It takes brave people who are willing to step out in faith; people who are willing to leave behind the idea of a perfect church; people who want to set a course, rather than just ride along someone else’s course.
I love my church! I see so much potential in it. It is being built on the right things: Solid preaching and a community that wants to grow in sanctification and bear each other’s needs. I just wish others could see this potential. I don’t know how to do that. I don’t know if I can do that. It seems virtually impossible, but then again nothing is impossible with God. If you are looking for a church, might I suggest mine? We are not prefect, we are not flashy, but I have seen God work miracles in it. I have seen people who were spiritually dead come to life! I have seen people forsake the love of money, forsake lust, and forsake comfort all because Christ had changed them. I love my church!
http://www.folfcrc.com (Fountain of Life Fellowship)
5 comments:
Scott, I have been so encouraged by your church and the working that it is doing in your people. Maybe it wasn't just your church but the change God has been doing in your life the past couple years is incredible. I am proud to say you are one of my best friends and your church will always have my prayers and support. I still think your entire church should move down south though. Think about it.
65 people? That sounds like a big church. Keep going!
I love your church too. May God keep blessing yours and Matt's leadership. I am seriously indebted to you guys for this summer.
Also, I agree with Andrew and proudly call you a friend and mentor, Scott. your the man... be encouraged!
Wow, you have great friends, Scott. Truly blessed. I agree with Jon- be encouraged.
Trials > steadfastness > completion. :)
Scott - as yor sister I am truly proud of you. You are selfless and your dedication to God and the people of your church shows in your daily life. I know your church will grow in love and worship to God and hopefully in numbers as well. I love you brother and we walk this journey of life together.
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