Sunday, June 11, 2006

Today was a refreshing day at The Journey, a day where I think some things began to correct themselves. My last post noted my frustration with the attendance being so low, and the message being so needed. But today was a great day for many reasons:
1) Our attendance was back to normal, as we had 137. I know during the summer that this will go up and down, but it is always great to have people where they are supposed to be.
2) We had Joe Lipsey, from the Gideons International, with us to present that ministry. As a church we collected $550 to give towards the Gideon's. I was glad to have that ministry with us, especially considering the influence it has had on several of our people, including our church leaders.
3) During Joe's presentation, the Lord hit me with a question to present to our people - "What could God do today to get your attention?" Or "Complete this statement, 'If the Lord did (***), I would not do the thing that I plan on doing."

I was planning on doing the 3rd lesson in our "God's still counting" series, but this question wouldn't release me so I ended up preaching on how God wants to get our attention, but we don't give it to Him. But then the question comes up - what could God do that would get my attention? Even if God did something spectacular (besides die on the cross, forgiving every sin, and inviting me into a relationship with Himself right where I am) - would I respond to Him? The word was from God to our church, as I believe some are on the cusp of disaster. God is vying for the attention of some of our folks, and they refuse. I titled the message "Last Call" because for some, it is the last call before God has to take some measures.

It was a good day today - I praise God that our giving is also up recently, as May was a financially difficult month for the church.

I am excited to see God's dream for this church, for His people, come to fruition.